Spring 2012 Follow us on Facebook & Twitter: www.facebook.com/niirta www.twitter.com/niirta www.niirta.com news
The magazine for the Northern Ireland Independent Retail Trade Association
Finance Minister Sammy Wilson MP and NIIRTA member Emma Dunn launching the NIIRTA Five Point Plan on Fair Rates Finance Minister Delivers on Rate Relief Scheme NIIRTA News ‐ Spring 2012
Attwood Announces Initial Five Pence Levy On Single Use Carrier Bags Environment Minister Alex Attwood has announced that a five pence levy on single use carrier bags will be introduced in April 2013. extended, as the details of the carrier bag levy are developed.”
NIIRTA Chief Executive Glyn Roberts said: “We agree with the DOE Minister’s objective of reducing plastic bag usage and our members have led the way in educating customers and pioneering voluntary approaches to addressing this problem”
“However, we are concerned that this is a tax on hard pressed working
NIIRTA CEO Glyn Roberts with DOE Minister Alex Attwood. families and will add to the burden of red tape particularly for small shops who will become tax collectors for this This will increase to ten pence in April pence in the first year, when the levy new scheme” 2014. The Minister has lowered the levy will only apply to single use carrier in the first year enabling consumers to bags. This will ensure a phased “It’s unclear if it is intended to adjust to the concept. Further, there will approach to charging. I am committed discourage plastic bag use or if it is a be no charge on multi use carrier bags in to making Northern Ireland a better revenue raiser. It has to do one or the April 2013 as the ten pence levy won't place to live, work and invest and this other – it can’t do both.” apply to these bags until April 2014. will certainly contribute to that goal.” “We are concerned that this tax may be This is the first time that a levy will be Administration of the scheme will be used to fund the Green New Deal. So, introduced on carrier bags in Northern based in Derry, reflecting the Minister’s essentially, the public is being asked to Ireland. commitment to job dispersal in the buy plastic bags, thereby generating draft Programme For Government. waste, in order to tackle waste. The Alex Attwood said: “There is no doubt Minister needs to clarify this issue.” that carrier bags are a scourge on the “With the creation of the new carrier environment. Evidence from other bag levy I welcome the potential to now “The Minister also needs to highlight countries demonstrates that a bag levy locate up to ten civil servant posts in the the projected cost of this new is a simple and effective means to North West, through the establishment ‘enforcement centre’ based in Derry and reduce substantially the negative of a new collection and enforcement how much the this Plastic Bag Tax will environmental impact of carrier bag team to administer the levy and deliver cost.” consumption. A proposed ten pence levy a cost effective in‐house IT system.” on single use carrier bags and lower cost “NIIRTA very much wants to work with reusable carrier bags can bring about Alex Attwood concluded: “I fully Minister Attwood on this issue to significant environmental improvement. recognise that this new levy will be of ensure we achieve the objective of great relevance to many consumers and reducing plastic bag usage and will be “However I recognise that consumers businesses in Northern Ireland. People seeking an urgent meeting with him.” will need time to change their can get detailed information of behaviour and adjust to bringing their arrangements for implementation on The introduction of the levy is subject to own bags when they shop. I therefore www.rethinkwasteni.org/carrierbaglev Assembly approval of the required propose to discount the charge to five y. The website will be updated and primary legislation.
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Rates Bill Passes Its Final Stage Finance Minister, Sammy Wilson welcomed the support for the Rates (Amendment) Bill which passed its final stage in the Assembly today. Some of the measures in the Bill provide for a large retail levy to fund additional help for small businesses as well as brightening up and encouraging use of long term empty retail premises typically found on Northern Ireland’s high streets. Following Royal Assent the legislation will come into effect on 1 April 2012. Sammy Wilson said: “This is a significant milestone for a vast number of Northern Ireland’s small businesses who continue to struggle in the current harsh economic climate and who will now benefit from the funding contained in the Rates (Amendment) Bill. Sammy Wilson launching NIIRTA’s Five Point Plan on Rates with local traders on Belfast’s Belmont Road “The support of the Executive and Assembly for the introduction of this Bill demonstrates a clear commitment from Government to its responsibility to help imperfections than to take no action at all. rates for their large trading margins. This stimulate the economy and to assist in any This Assembly must recognise that the contrasts with the high rates bills, way possible to get Northern Ireland on the system is not perfect. Land & Property problematic and pricey parking, and road to recovery. Services has already written to those that planning constraints which the city centre will be affected and urges those who have traders are faced with. “The large retail levy will fund much needed incorrectly been identified as multiples to additional help for our small businesses “The Finance Minister has rightly contact the Agency and this issue can then while the Assembly has also approved recognised the trading pressures of smaller be resolved.” measures aimed at making long term empty businesses across the north and I hope that retail premises more attractive or getting The Bill also includes the provision to clarify this measure, although time bound, will them back into business. the valuation assumptions used at a non‐ help many of our local businesses at this domestic revaluation and also repeal the time and protect jobs in our cities, towns Although the Small Business Rate Relief rule applied to properties referenced by and villages.” scheme and large retail levy will be applied their volume of trade, for example public automatically, ratepayers are encouraged to NIIRTA Chief Executive Glyn Roberts said: houses. These changes will take effect at the submit applications to Land and Property “The passing of this legislation is good news next general revaluation scheduled for Services (LPS) for other commercial rate for thousands of small businesses and 2015. reliefs. independent retailers who struggle to pay SDLP Finance Spokesperson Dominic their rates bills as a result of the recession.” The Minister continued: “The Bill allows Bradley MLA has welcomed passage of the business ratepayers to brighten up shop “Given that over 1000 small shops closed in Rates (Amendment) Bill in the Assembly. windows with non‐commercial window 2011 and with the likelihood of many more displays without incurring full occupied Mr Bradley said: “The principle of the so‐ this year, this Rate Relief Scheme is a rates. It also provides for a one year called ‘Tesco tax’ move is welcome and is a sensible response by the Executive.” concession, during 2012/13, that will good first step. In addition to this scheme “Furthermore, NIIRTA is pleased that its 5 effectively allow 50% empty property relief we believe it should be improved further in Point Plan proposals for first year 50% rate to continue for a year. To receive the 50% respect of helping some of the larger stores relief for new start businesses taking up rebate on retail properties empty for a year who do not have big profit margins. It is empty retail proprieties has also been or more ratepayers must submit an something that could be done more fairly passed by the Assembly. This will help both application to LPS with evidence that the and framed for the longer‐term. address our huge problem of vacant shops property, when last used, was for retail “This move will be welcomed by local and support new start businesses in their purposes.” traders who have made a reasoned and first critical year of trading.” Referring to those who may be holding forceful case for measures to support NIIRTA Member Emma Dunn, who is owner multiple premises. the Minister said: “From independent town and city centre of Sweet Thing on Belmont Road and will 1 April ratepayers occupying multiple businesses. Many small businesses are qualify for the Rates Relief Scheme said: premises, that is more than three in total feeling the pinch of the economic downturn “Minister Sammy Wilson deserves regardless of size, will not be entitled to and the rates bill could make the difference considerable credit for bringing forward relief under the Small Business Rate Relief between the business continuing to trade or this legislation as do the many local traders Scheme.” it deciding to close with the loss of local groups and Chambers of Commerce who led jobs. The Minister noted that there could be the campaign for fair business rates.” some teething difficulties in identifying “Local traders have highlighted the unfair “I am a new start independent retailer and multiples saying: “I would prefer to take competition of large out‐of‐town retail the Rate Relief Scheme will assist me in action and be criticised for some centres which are paying relatively small taking on my first member of staff.”
Page 3 NIIRTA News ‐ Spring 2012
Mary Portas has published her review of the future of our high streets.
The Review sets out her vision to entertaining and however slick, just • Level the playing field. breathe economic and community life never can. • Define landlords’ roles and back into our high streets. responsibilities. “Our high streets can be lively, • Give communities a greater say. It makes ambitious recommendations dynamic, exciting and social places Prime Minister David Cameron said: on what can be done – by government, that give a sense of belonging and trust "The High Street should be at the very local authorities and business – to help to a community. Something which, as heart of every community, bringing high streets deliver something new. the recent riots clearly demonstrated, people together, providing essential The focus is on putting the heart back has been eroded and in some services and creating jobs and into the centre of our high streets, re‐ instances eradicated. investment; so it is vital that we do all imagined as exciting social hubs for that we can to ensure they thrive. shopping, learning socialising and “I fundamentally believe that once we having fun. invest in and create social capital in "I am delighted that Mary Portas has the heart of our communities, the produced such a clear vision on how Mary Portas said: “I don’t want to live economic capital will follow." we can create vibrant and diverse in a Britain that doesn’t care about town centres and breathe life back into community. And I believe that our high The recommendations aim to: our high streets. streets are a really important part of • Get town centres running like pulling people together in a way that a businesses. “The Government will now review supermarket or shopping mall, • Get the basics right to allow Mary’s recommendations and we will however convenient, however businesses to flourish. publish our response next spring.”
Page 4 NIIRTA News ‐ Spring 2012
McCausland calls for focus on town centre regeneration
in point is Newcastle, County Down where footfall in the town has increased dramatically following the completion of the public realm works there. I am keen to explore lessons from the Portas review to ensure we are doing all we can here to maximise the potential of our own town centres as vibrant places for people to live, work and play.”
NIIRTA Chief Executive Glyn Roberts said: “These are welcome plans as NIIRTA has long been calling for the Executive to develop an agreed action plan to regenerate our town and city DSD Minister Nelson McCausland visiting the NIIRTA stand at the DUP Conference centres and we look forward to working with them on its Having considered the Mary Portas regenerate town centres to see implementation.” review of UK high streets, Social whether this might be further Development Minister Nelson strengthened in light of the “The Mary Portas report provides 28 McCausland has outlined his recommended actions identified by recommendations which could be of department’s focus on the future of our Portas, and also reflect Northern considerable help in charting a way town centres. Ireland trading circumstances. forward for our town centres and it’s very positive that Minister McCausland Minister McCausland said: “I support 2. The Minister will meet with is to invite Ms Portas to Northern any initiative which can benefit our representatives of business, local Ireland.” town and city centres which are clearly government and his DFP, DRD and facing a difficult time in the present DOE Ministerial colleagues to “NIIRTA has always maintained that economic climate. Having seen the develop a NI Executive action plan vibrant town centres, supporting a Portas Review, I have taken a number of to boost the performance of diverse mix of independent and steps as my Department continues to Northern Ireland's high streets. multiple retail, alongside a strong café consider how we can best deliver culture and night time economy is vital support and regeneration in urban 3. The Minister will invite Mary Portas to the future economic prospects of areas. Our focus should be on putting to Northern Ireland to advise on the Northern Ireland.” the heart back into the centre of our content of the Northern Ireland high streets, re‐imagined as exciting action plan. “However a central element to this is social hubs for shopping, learning and getting our Retail Planning Policy right socialising. 4. A Report and Action Plan will be to protect our town centres from presented to the NI Executive by unsustainable out of town superstore As an initial response the Department April 2012 for endorsement. applications which pose a major threat is taking the following steps: to their vitality and future Minister McCausland continued: “My development.” 1. Setting up a taskforce of senior Department already has an extensive officials to respond to the difficult programme of public realm works “NIIRTA can also announce that it is trading challenges facing Northern across the towns and cities of Northern working with the DSD to host a major Ireland's High Streets. The taskforce Ireland. This has greatly improved the Town Centre Regeneration Summit at will review the support which the environment for local people, attracting Stormont to help chart the way forward Department already provides to shoppers and potential investors. A case in future policy.”
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NIIRTA at the Party Conferences
This year NIIRTA teamed up with the Ulster Chemists’ Association
Glyn Roberts with the Leader of the Green Party Steven Agnew MLA Glyn Roberts and Secretary of State Owen Paterson at the NIIRTA sponsored lunch at the Tory Conference
UUP’s DRD Minister Danny Kennedy UUP's Mike Nesbitt MLA receiving a health check from UCA’s James McKay
Page 8 NIIRTA News ‐ Spring 2012
SDLP Leader Alasdair McDonnell with UCA's Killian Johnston & Paula McDaid
SDLP's Patsy McGlone with UCA's Killian Johnston and Glyn Roberts taking part in the panel at UUP conference Paula McDaid
Glyn Roberts with First Minister Peter Robinson
Page 9 NIIRTA News ‐ Spring 2012
Health Minister Edwin Poots getting a health check from UCA’s Jonathan Lloyd & Adam Bartholomew
NIIRTA and IoD hosted a special Christmas Reception at NIIRTA Business lunch at the Conservative Party Conference which the new Shadow Secretary of State Vernon Coaker MP made an address.
DUP's Robin Newton MLA with Adam Bartholomew Glyn Roberts at the DUP Conference
Page 10 NIIRTA News ‐ Spring 2012
First Minister Peter Robinson, Glyn Roberts NIABT Vice Chair, Speaker William Hay & deputy First Minister Martin McGuinness at the President’s Dinner of the Northern Ireland Assembly and Business Trust
Glyn Roberts along with colleagues from other Business Organisations met with Business Secretary Vince Cable MP. The Ministers for Justice and Employment David Ford and Stephen Farry hosted the meeting.
Page 11 NIIRTA News ‐ Spring 2012
First & deputy First Ministers Peter Robinson & Martin McGuinness with NIIRTA President Paul Stewart and NIIRTA CEO Glyn Roberts launching the Shop Independent At Christmas campaign
UUP’s Tom Elliott MLA with UCA's Lee Dearn and Anne McAllister
Page 12 NIIRTA News ‐ Spring 2012
Post Office Launches £1.34 Billion Branch Network Investment and Support Programme across the UK Post Office Ltd recently announced plans to transform about half of its network of 11,800 branches across the UK over the next three years as part of an overall £1.34bn investment and support programme, subject to EU State Aid clearance.
The Post Office, which has sustain the network and a series of joint Post Office express an interest to leave just under 480 outlets in over time make it less Ltd and National Federation the network, and where Post Northern Ireland, is a core reliant on a subsidy from the of Subpostmasters Office Ltd can find a suitable part of the UK’s economic UK Government. roadshows held in cities new operator nearby, will and social infrastructure – across the UK including receive a compensation 99 per cent of the UK Winning more Government Belfast. Under the payment (equivalent to 18 population lives within three business is a key part of the programme, subpostmasters months remuneration). As miles of a Post Office branch. Post Office strategy, for could either; the roll‐out is phased and The investment will provide example the roll‐out of ‐ express an interest in voluntary, it is not possible a more modern and biometric data capture converting to a new style to provide in advance a list convenient retail experience equipment to nearly 800 branch with support and of branches that will convert for customers, whilst branches UK‐wide. This investment, if the branch to the new style models for maintaining the UK Post allows Post Office Ltd to is suitable, specific locations. Regular Office network at its compete for tenders to ‐ stay as they are, updates will be provided current size. deliver assisted application ‐ express an interest in through both the pilot phase and identity verification leaving the network, with and during the three year Post Office Strategy services. Growing the Post a compensation package, roll‐out programme. The transformation of the Office’s existing financial subject to a suitable network is part of a wider services business is another alternative provider The Pilot Programme strategy to win new key strategic priority. The being able to take on the Between now and summer customers and revenue Post Office is expanding its service. 2012, around 50 further streams for the business to range of value for money new local and main ensure its long‐term financial services products. Subpostmasters have also branches will be piloted sustainability. In 2000, Post responded to a recent across the UK. New sites Office Ltd had around 28 Branch Selection Criteria survey undertaken by Post will complement current million customer visits each Under both the pilots and Office Ltd. The feedback has pilot branches and week. This now stands at full roll‐out phase, Post been very positive, with a collectively help inform around 20 million. As a Office Ltd will work with good level of interest in the future roll‐out plans. result, at present, a subpostmasters who new style branches. Participation for existing significant part of the UK express an interest in operators is entirely branch network benefits converting to a new In order to meet the UK voluntary. from a subsidy payment to operating model. A decision Government commitment of sustain services to will be made on the most no further programme of In addition, Post Office Ltd communities. This appropriate model for their branch closures, if a will continue to offer the investment programme will branch, based on a range of subpostmaster wishes to new models, where make the branch network selection criteria being met. leave the network with appropriate, to either attract more attractive to compensation, this can new operators to restore customers, subpostmasters Working with happen, but only once Post service to communities that and prospective clients. The Subpostmasters Office Ltd has found a have previously seen their combination of extended In November 2011, suitable new subpostmaster branch close or as a solution opening hours and new subpostmasters had the and premises nearby. to ongoing network changes. business income will help opportunity to attend one of Subpostmasters, who
Page 13 NIIRTA News ‐ Spring 2012
NIIRTA chief told of local artisan bakery’s strong commitment to local independent retailers
A leading figure from the Northern Ireland independent retail trade recently enjoyed a behind the scenes look at the province’s leading artisan bakery in Magherafelt.
Glyn Roberts, Chief Executive of the UK and Ireland in recent years, the bakery occasions and has harnessed Northern Ireland Independent Retail local independent sector remains an the seasonal peaks in trade with quirky Trade Association met with integral part of the local company’s and fun offerings such as the Valentines Commercial Director Melvyn Bacon, business, accounting for more than half Sodas, the Bunshine range for Summer and other senior staff from McErlain’s, of its annual sales. and Fangtastic Iced Tops for Halloween the family owned bakery behind the highly successful Genesis Crafty brand With a product portfolio of nearly 60 During the visit Melvyn Bacon told Glyn during the visit. While Genesis Crafty products in bread, cake and morning Roberts of the company’s plans to has seen strong growth throughout the goods, Genesis Crafty, aims to satisfy all launch a “Titanic” range of products to
Page 14 NIIRTA News ‐ Spring 2012 NIIRTA Benefits of Membership
Do you have a News Story? Contact NIIRTA with the details and we’ll cover it if we can! What is NIIRTA? It’s not just a lobbying body – it’s a trade association with an excellent range of services and benefits available to members. What can NIIRTA do for you? Glyn Roerts with Melvyn Bacon NIIRTA can provide retailers with advice on a whole range of issues – from rates reductions and car parking honour the Belfast Shipyard’s heritage and customers. It employs 173 people and has to crime prevention and connection with the world famous ocean created an additional 70 jobs in the last legislation information. liner. two years. It is one of the most innovative Here’s a list of what’s on offer from NIIRTA... – and modern ‐ craft bakeries in the UK, NIIRTA News – a regular He also explained how the business had endorsed by Investors in People and BRC update on issues affecting sought to strengthen its links with local accreditations. you! independent retailers by adding in Public Affairs – NIIRTA is additional delivery routes to ensure that NIIRTA Chief Executive Glyn Roberts said: the voice at Government key customers in outlying locations “I was delighted to visit Genesis Bakery to level on all issues affecting your business throughout Northern Ireland were catered see first‐ hand the high class products NIIRTA Advice Helpline for alongside the highly populated post being made and distributed to our 028 9022 0004 – code areas. members. Our wholesale and retail Available 9.00-5.00 – members do a lot of business with the Monday to Friday – for McErlain’s Bakery is a family‐owned company and we are pleased to support a specific advice on employment and other business which was established in 1968 as local family owned company which issues. a small home bakery and door to door van contributes so much to our local food HCMA – a sickness and sales operation. Today it operates with the sector.” injury scheme similar to same values and ethics it did when it was BUPA – contact NIIRTA for founded over 44 years ago, which ensures “I look forward to seeing their new Titanic details or telephone 01423 866985 (and quote NIIRTA). high quality products and service to range in our members’ stores.” Willis Insurance – Property insurance at competitive rates – Debbie Galbraith at Willis Insurance – 028 9089 1813 or email: [email protected] XACT – Health & Safety/Food Management System available at competitive rates – ‘No Obligation’ audit facility available to NIIRTA members. Contact Xact on 0845 665 3006. Follow us on Facebook and Twitter
Page 15 NIIRTA News ‐ Spring 2012
Belfast City Council announces Investment Package
An exciting £150 million investment package – aimed at boosting the local economy – has been unveiled by Belfast City Council.
First and deputy First Ministers, Peter Robinson MLA and Martin McGuinness MP with the Lord Mayor of Belfast, Cllr Niall Ó Donnghaile
The initiative has been led and Plans for a Waterfront conference 1973. We will invest £75 million developed by all six leaders of the facility are among the highlights of towards facilities for local council’s political parties, including capital investment. This £20 million communities and a further £75 million Cllr Jim McVeigh (Sinn Fein), Alderman extension to the iconic Belfast to support major partnership projects, Robin Newton (DUP), Cllr Tim Attwood Waterfront will target the lucrative local regeneration and key sectors such (SDLP), Cllr Maire Hendron (Alliance), business tourism market. as tourism”. Alderman David Browne (Ulster Unionists) and Alderman Hugh Smyth “This programme has been developed “Because we have worked hard to (Progressive Unionists), who hailed it and supported by all six of the political ensure that the Council’s running costs as “can do” pro‐active agenda to parties on Belfast City Council,” said will not rise, all of the money raised by market Belfast globally. Chair of the Strategic Policy and the rates increase will allow us to Resources committee, Councillor support the investment programme Key aims of the three‐year initiative Deirdre Hargey. with £20 million. This, in turn, will are to support businesses, create enable us to lever in money from other employment opportunities, grow the “It is our commitment to address the sources, including Europe, to ensure local economy and provide economic economic downturn in Belfast and we real value for money for our infrastructure to ensure future believe it is the most significant ratepayers. At the same time, we competitiveness. initiative since Belfast Corporation was pledge to continue to deliver the level replaced by Belfast City Council in of efficiencies we have achieved in
Page 16 NIIRTA News ‐ Spring 2012 recent years, reaching £20m of savings the current recession and the plans for • £75 million in council facilities for by 2015. This is a win‐win situation,” some 600 council employment, work local communities ‐ including new Cllr Hargey added. placement, internship and apprentice pitches, playgrounds and the opportunities. These will go a refurbishment and regeneration of “On behalf of all of the political parties significant way in helping Belfast, and local facilities and community on Belfast City Council, we are proud to its young people in particular, realise assets; announce this package and believe it its true potential. • £20 million in partnership projects represents the biggest single “This plan complements the vision for which will contribute to city demonstration of our unity and the future as laid out by the Executive regeneration; commitment to serve the people of and by working together we can tackle • £50 million levered from Europe Belfast in the most effective and the difficulties of the economic and other sources to provide key efficient way. Our aim is to make our downturn, help Belfast realise its economic infrastructure projects to great city even better”. potential and build a better future for support the development of key all its people.” sectors; Speaking at the launch the First • £5 million in smaller local Minister said: "It is clear from the NIIRTA Chief Executive Glyn Roberts regeneration projects; strategy launched that Belfast City said: “While this Economic Package Council aims to make the most of the will require a small increase in Belfast City Council will also be once in a lifetime opportunity we now Business Rates, we believe it is a price • investing £34 million in local have to promote Belfast and Northern worth paying for a sound investment in economic growth, through tourism, Ireland on a world stage. the future economy of Belfast. We events, arts and culture and "The Council is showing true appreciate the efforts of the Council to encouraging competitiveness; leadership in bringing forward a take on board our views at a number of • delivering 400 work placement, comprehensive investment strategy at meetings before publishing this plan.” internship and apprenticeship a time that remain challenging for opportunities; everyone. The initiative and “For some time NIIRTA has highlighted • delivering 200 employment commitment to investment it has the problems of retailers operating in opportunities at no additional cost shown is evidence of what can be arterial routes and district areas of the to ratepayers; gained from taking a strategic City and we are pleased that the • increasing our local procurement approach to tackling the issues that Council has tailored this package by 10%; impact most on our society. towards providing support to those "This programme builds on the ideals businesses by increasing investment in Support for local communities will outlined in the Executive’s draft the Renewing the Routes programme include: Programme for Government, and to match funding DSD Urban • using our £5 million Local Investment Strategy and Economic Regeneration projects.” Investment Fund to attract and Strategy by aiming to grow our local complement other funding for economy; supporting businesses; “Belfast should be attracting more neighbourhood regeneration; helping people into employment; and conferences and we feel certain that • implementing a £10 million grant by providing the economic the new convention centre at the aid programme; infrastructure that will ensure Belfast’s Waterfront Hall will further incentivise • levering in an extra £3 million to future competitiveness. conference organisers and business support community safety; tourism” • rolling out £4 million PEACE III The deputy First Minister said: "In this funding to support programmes time of rising unemployment, our “Overall this Investment Programme is which improve community highest priority is to create an a very pro‐retail document and we are relations and reduce segregation; economy that is both vibrant and happy to work with Belfast City • investing £1.5 million in delivering transformative. The projects identified Council in its implementation.” our Renewing the Routes in the Belfast City Council’s Investment programme; Strategy will have a direct influence on What’s In The Plan? • dealing with dilapidated and growing our local economy. In Belfast City Council’s £150 m derelict buildings; particular, I welcome the proposed investment in capital projects to build • introducing the use of social and bursary scheme for the 16‐24 year assets and support construction and community benefit clauses in BCC olds, who are hit particularly bad by the wider economy, include: contracts
Page 17 NIIRTA News ‐ Spring 2012
Executive Invests £500m into Infrastructure Projects
The revised budget means that over the next four years Roads Service can bring forward significant elements of the A5 dual carriageway project, between Londonderry and Strabane, and Omagh and Ballygawley, along with the A8 Belfast to Larne project and a scheme to dual the A2 Shore Road at Greenisland.
strategic road network over the next four years, that will make a significant difference to the people of Northern Ireland.
“This investment will provide a significant boost to the local economy and help to encourage inward investment. It will provide job security for many and create, much needed jobs in the construction industry, across environmental and engineering consultancies, suppliers, contractors, infrastructure specialists and others. It will also offer opportunities for the long‐term unemployed, apprentices and students.
“In the longer term it will serve as a catalyst for wider economic growth. If we want Northern Ireland to prosper we have to construct the infrastructure to enable us to compete effectively.”
The A5 and A8 are two of five key transport corridors indentified in the Regional Development Strategy for Northern Ireland. These improvements will dual key transport corridors; improving road safety and reduce journey times.
The A5 and A8 dual carriageway schemes have been taken forward as a result of an agreement between the Danny Kennedy DRD Minister Executive and the Irish Government. The Irish Government’s decision to Regional Development Minister Danny have reviewed spending priorities defer further funding for these Kennedy said: “Following a series of across my Department and I am now in schemes, with a commitment to meetings with Executive colleagues a position to bring forward a balanced provide £25 million per annum in and work by Departmental officials, I programme of improvements to our 2015 and 2016, has required a re‐
Page 18 NIIRTA News ‐ Spring 2012 evaluation of the roads programme in improve safety for pedestrians with Londonderry to Dungiven, the York the current Budget period. the provision of new footpaths. Street Interchange, A24 Ballynahinch Development of the A5 beyond this Identified in the Belfast Metropolitan Bypass as well as other non‐strategic period is being considered through the Transport Plan, the new dual schemes such as Millennium Way in structures of the North South carriageway will alleviate congestion Lurgan. Delivery of these projects will Ministerial Council. for the 35,000 motorists who travel be determined by the Investment between East Antrim and Belfast every Strategy for Northern Ireland 2011‐21, The Minister said: “The improvements day.” which is currently published for to the A8, between Ballyclare and consultation.” Larne, will complete a minimum of Danny Kennedy added: “Subject to the NIIRTA Chief Executive Glyn Roberts dual carriageway standard on the outcome of the public inquiries that said: “This is welcome investment as Eastern Seaboard corridor, reducing were held last summer, construction the roads infrastructure in these areas journey times, improving safety and work may begin on the A8 as early as is in need of considerable supporting the continued development this spring, with the A5 works starting improvement. Towns and cities like of the Port of Larne, Northern Ireland's in early autumn. A procurement Strabane, Londonderry, Omagh and second largest port. The A5 project will competition will be initiated for the A2 Larne all depend on the road network improve links in the West and with the Shore Road project, which should see for shoppers and tourists alike.” Belfast metropolitan area, providing work commencing early in 2013. more reliable and reduced journey “This decision is good news for both times with improved safety. “Development work is also continuing our retail and construction sectors and “The A2 project will widen 2.4km of on a range of other major projects I hope that it will lead to substantial the single carriageway, between including A26 Glarryford, A6 job creation, particularly after recent Jordanstown and Seapark, and Randalstown to Castledawson, A6 grim news of job losses.”
Page 19 NIIRTA News ‐ Spring 2012
Dale Farm - The Ingredients for Success
Part of the United Dairy Farmers Group, Dale Farm is a UK wide dairy farmer co- operative, owned by around 2,000 dairy farmers who supply it with fresh milk.
The Group’s consumer brands Dale impressive haul has further elevated foodservice sector having built up a Farm, Spelga & Dromona encompass the Northern Ireland company’s status wealth of experience including within every dairy need from milk, cream, as a world class dairy producer. Healthcare, Education, Business and cheese, butter, and dairy spreads to Industry, Hotels, Restaurants, Travel yogurts, pro‐biotic drinks, ice‐cream And world class is not an exaggeration. and Instore. and desserts and are synonymous with Dale Farm exports products to over 45 natural, wholesome and quality dairy countries including China, the Middle Throughout its portfolio of services, goodness – as well as being loved by East and the Caribbean. Most recently Dale Farm remains committed to children and adults of all ages its Ingredients business has gained providing a first‐class provision to its Quality is a cornerstone of the Dale interest from Japan and the Canary customers. Support services from Dale Farm business and in 2011 alone the Islands securing vital market share and Farm’s retail teams include advice on company picked up no less than 29 advancing its reputation for product category management and a dedicated major accolades for its Dromona innovation with the success of its whey fleet of van sales, delivering fresh field Cheese and butter range. Including protein business. sales service, ensuring consumer needs international awards from renowned are met and ultimately profit for the industry shows such as Nantwich, the A full‐service dairy, Dale Farm also retailer is maximised. Great Taste Awards and Frome – this offers a wide range of products to the
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NIIRTA News ‐ Spring 2012
DARD Minister Meets With NIIRTA Agriculture Minister Michelle O’Neill has met with a delegation from the NI Independent Retailers Association (NIIRTA) led by their Chief Executive Glyn Roberts and President Paul Stewart.
Left to right - NIIRTA member Joe Quail, NIIRTA President Paul Stewart, Agriculture Minister Michelle O’Neill and NIIRTA CEO Glyn Roberts
NIIRTA represents the interests of over 1,300 independent industry to ensure its future sustainability by taking account retail members throughout the province. The meeting of increased input costs faced by producers.” focussed on NIIRTA’s continuing support for local produce and producers as well as working with government on agri‐ The Minister also addressed the issue of the need for Grocery food issues. Code Adjudicator. She said: “The appointment of an Adjudicator should benefit everyone in the food chain and in Speaking after the meeting, Minister O’Neill said: “The ever‐ particular help ensure that farmers receive a fair price for increasing global demand for food is providing economic their produce.” opportunities for our quality food producers and it is vital that sustainable supply chains continue to be developed on There were further discussions on the Department’s Rural both the local and international stages. White Paper and Minister O’Neill revealed: “Public consultation on the draft Rural White Paper Action Plan “Continual dialogue between the various parts of the food finished in June and I am currently undertaking a series of bi‐ chain is essential to ensure that farmers receive a fair price. lateral meetings with Ministerial colleagues to discuss the All need to work together and retailers need to work with the outcome.”
Page 22 NIIRTA News ‐ Spring 2012
New Chair of Agri-Food Board Appointed
Enterprise, Trade and Investment Minister Arlene Foster and Agriculture and Rural Development Minister Michelle O’Neill have appointed Tony O’Neill as Chair of the new Agri-Food Board
The Ministers said: “Tony O’Neill WD Irwin and Sons (Chief Executive) brings considerable experience of and Moy Park Limited (Further extremely effective leadership, Processing Director) before taking up strategic thinking and change the position as Managing Director management skills that led to the within the OKP Group in 2005, leading strong growth of both the O’Kane the Group through a period of major Poultry Business and later Moy Park. restructuring resulting in the Group “In addition, his experience as Chair of returning to profit in 2007. Tony is NIFDA has also provided him with a currently Group Business unique opportunity to develop Development Director of Moy Park. Tony O’Neill relationships across the agri‐food Tony is also a Director of The British sector. By bringing his wealth of skills Poultry Council and is Chairman of the to the post, he will be well placed to ensuring we maximise the potential of Northern Ireland Poultry Federation, develop the existing Focus on Food the sector in the years ahead.” Chairman of Rose Energy, Chairman of strategy into a longer term vision for Tony O’Neill graduated from the the Northern Ireland Food and Drink the sector with industry determined University of Ulster in 1977 with a BSc Association, and Chair of the Future goals and targets. (Hons) Engineering and took up a Skills Action Group. “The agri‐food sector has been position with Davidson and Co., where The final stage in the establishment of recognised in the recent draft he remained until 1986. Tony was then the Board is to appoint the members Economic Strategy as a sector with employed by a number of high profile of the Agri‐food Strategy Board. great potential for growth and the new companies such as Coopers and Advertisements have been placed in Chair and members of the Agri‐food Lybrand, Dalgety, Nestle, Premier the press to seek nominations for Strategy Board will play a key role in Foods (Group Operations Director), these important positions.
The Ulster Pork And Bacon Forum Reveals Northern Ireland’s Best Banger McCartney’s of Moira walks away with sought after title
The Ulster Pork and Bacon Forum presented the TENTH National Sausage Awards on October at the Hilton Hotel in Templepatrick.
NIIRTA sponsored the Independent Retailer category. NIIRTA’s president Paul Stewart presented the awards. In first place was the Fresh Food Centre with David Trimble’s Gourmet Recipe. JD Hunter & Co took second and third place with their Mango Chutney and Honey &
Mustard recipes. Paul Stewart with the NIIRTA sponsored winners at the National Sausage Awards
Page 23 NIIRTA News ‐ Spring 2012
Kelly: All-Island Agri-Food Sector Offers Enormous Jobs Potential SDLP Deputy Leader and Agriculture spokersperson Dolores Kelly has said an all-island approach to developing the Agri-Food sector is key to stimulating economic growth and getting people back into work.
Speaking following the SDLP's “There are many challenges facing Agri‐Food conference in Armagh, our agriculture industry at present which included an address from with the proposals under CAP Irish Agriculture Minister Simon reform and the rising costs of fuel, Coveney TD, Mrs Kelly said: “Agri‐ feed and fertiliser, all of which will Food is a key economic driver on have an enormous impact on the our island and we must ensure that development of our Agri‐Food all opportunities to stimulate sector. But if we work together we employment in this sector across can beat these challenges and Ireland are seized upon. identify ways of delivering jobs in “In order to achieve this, we must this booming sector. create a collective all‐island strategy involving farmers, “We need to see a can do attitude governments, businesses, our at the heart of our Executive with universities and the banks. closer collaboration between our "We had a very powerful address governments, food production from the Irish Agriculture Minister specialists and businesses in order Simon Coveney who brilliantly to capitalise upon the many job SDLP Leader Alasdair McDonnell, Deputy Leader articulated the opportunities for opportunities which the Agri‐Food Dolores Kelly and Irish Agriculture Minister Simon Coveney TD. our Agri‐Food sector. industry presents.”
Senior SDLP representatives with those who spoke at the event including Irish Agriculture Minister Simon Coveney TD, Mash Direct CEO Martin Hamilton, Queen's University Agri-Food expert Dr Chris Elliott, Mark Cunningham from Bank of Ireland, Director of Invest NI’s Agri-Food Division Maynard Mawhinney and CEO of the Ulster Farmers’ Union Clarke Black.
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Authorised and regulated by the Financial Services Authority. 10360/12/11 NIIRTA News ‐ Spring 2012 Celebration of Independent Retail! Recent news about the UK high street has been pretty depressing to say the least. Multiples are closing more stores than they are opening. The national vacancy rates will be a launch conference, success”, published by Kogan store is well stocked and remain static however, on Sunday 1st July at Page and out on 3rd July. In clearly merchandised, so largely because Independent Cranmore Park near Solihull. this book, Clare shares her customers have no barrier Retailers are filling the void. The day‐long event was unique 10‐step methodology to purchasing!. Try to Figures from Local Data created specifically to which has been designed to capture their contact details Company published on 1st provide independent enable smaller, independent too – so you can remarket to March proved that retailers with relevant, retailers whether starting‐ them in future and Independent Retail, as a practical advice, insights, up or already trading, online encourage them to come sector, was growing. But let’s expertise and peer group only or store‐based, to back again. It is said that it not kid ourselves; there is a networking. Attendees will develop robust and takes c. 6 weeks to form a huge amount to be done to benefit from keynote repeatable processes and new habit – well we’ve got 4 win back the consumer… presentations, workshops, a systems enabling them to ½ in July… that’s almost Still, July may be an panel discussion, 1‐2‐1 “ask transform into a scalable, enough to change consumer opportunity to do just that. the expert” sessions. To find saleable enterprise. behaviour, to get them to re‐ out more, and to secure a With so much passion being engage with Independents, July is Independent Retailer place, visit poured into celebrating and to shop locally once month, a global "Shop Local" www.independentretailerm Independent Retail what are more. campaign highlighting the onth.eventbrite.co.uk you going to do? It’s down to the retailers to important role smaller, local, Plan some events and make their stores as independent retailers play To coincide with promotions that are appealing as possible and to in the communities they independent retailer month, attractive to your ideal draw the customers in – serve, the local economy Clare Rayner, The Retail customer, encourage them to Independent Retailer Month they contribute to, and in Champion, who leads bring friends, family or gives you the “reason” – so, the retail sector as a whole. Independent Retailer Month colleagues along. Ensure pardon the pun, go to town in the UK, is launching her your activities encourage with it! To launch independent new book, “The Retail customers to spend with www.independentretailer‐ retailer month 2012 there Champion: 10‐steps to retail you. Make sure that the month.co.uk Page 28 NIIRTA News ‐ Spring 2012 Export Focus At Willowbrook Foods Praised By First Minister First Minister Peter Robinson praised Willowbrook Foods in Killinchy recently for its “outstanding achievements” in markets outside Northern Ireland. outside Northern Ireland, doubles the company’s continues to grow through production capacity and is its sharp focus on exports enabling us to meet the and innovative products. growing demand from key “As an economy we are customers for our existing heavily reliant on our small range of products. It is and medium sized enabling us to build on the companies, many of whom success we have achieved in are in the food sector and we selling 85 per cent of our believe that companies such products to customers as Willowbrook through outside Northern Ireland. their willingness to invest in “In addition, the investment their business and as a is providing scope for new consequence the region, products being developed by have an important part to staff in our new Food play in generating the Innovation Centre in liaison increased sales which with both existing and contribute to a healthier and potential customers in Great John McCann, Managing Director of Willowbrook Foods with wealthier economy. Britain and the Republic of First Minister, Peter Robinson MLA Ireland. “Indeed their creation of Mr Robinson was speaking Government on exports and many new jobs over the past “The Innovation Centre and at the official opening of the market‐led innovation as number of years will bring the new factory together company’s new £5.5 million crucially important drivers significant benefits to the enable us to respond quickly factory which processes of economic growth. regional economy.” and flexibly to market salad bags, convenience opportunities for new products, wet salads, “Over the next four years, we Mr Robinson met John products. Our success to date prepared vegetables and stir hope to see a 15 per cent McCann, Managing Director has been based on the close fry products for leading growth in exports and look of Willowbrook Foods, and working relationships that retailers and foodservice to ambitious and progressive other members of the we have developed with clients particularly in Great companies such as management team before customers and our ability to Britain and the Republic of Willowbrook Foods to touring the new 44,000sq ft respond nimbly to Ireland. continue to pursue business factory on the family farm opportunities arising from opportunities outside site at Killinchy. The factory the demands of consumers.” Mr Robinson said: Northern Ireland for both includes a new cooking area “Willowbrook Foods is a existing and especially new where the company The company, which shining example of the added‐value products produces its premium range employs around 250 people export‐focused, added value‐ sourced in Northern Ireland of mash potato and at the Killinchy plant and led and entrepreneurial for sale at a premium vegetables, along with other also in an operation in business which the Northern abroad. Our food industry, par cooked vegetable ranges. Newtownards, supplies Ireland Executive is keen to currently generating more multiple retailers customers showcase and encourage as than £3.7 billion annually for Mr McCann, commenting on such as Co‐Operative Food, part of our strategic focus in the local economy, £2.7 the company’s investment, Musgrave Retail Partners the draft Programme for billion of which is sold said: “This factory more than and Henderson’s. Page 30 NIIRTA News ‐ Spring 2012 From the Heart of County Armagh, to Your Business Since its establishment, Pinkertons has been firmly focused on providing excellent pork and bacon products with an unparalleled service to the wholesale trade. Pinkertons pork products have been Historically, Pinkertons main core range which consists of a mouth around from about 1890 and are still business has been with the butchery, watering Cured Loin of Bacon, Bacon going strong over 120 years later. foodservice and catering trade with Steaks plus a host of other month Pinkertons, a family run company, is only a small portion of the business on watering meals for you to try. now focused on driving the business the retail sector. forward with the insight of using Check out our website tradition methods alongside modern Due to the gradual increase in sales www.pinkertonspork.com to see our technology to produce the highest over recent years within the retail full range of products. quality pork products. sector, Pinkertons has now decided to grow this area of the business and raise Contact: David Gibson Pinkertons purchase their pigs directly consumer awareness of our fantastic Mobile: 07595021447 from local farmers which are then products which are manufactured and Office: 02837524340 brought to our fully EU standardised distributed by ourselves. Email: [email protected] plant using the HACCP Quality System, so you and your customers can rely on the In recent months Pinkertons has integrity and quality of the end product. launched a new Oven Ready product ofof AArmaghrmagh Pinkertons of Armagh are a family run business who demand only the very best in Northern Ireland Pork. Producing the most delicious range of Pork, Prime Gammon, Bacon, Sausages and now oven ready meals just for you. Look out for our range of tasty products in your local store! Visit our website to see our full range of products: www.pinkertonspork.com Pinkertons also supply Foodservice, Butchery, Hotels & Food Outlets. Tel: 028 3752 4340 Page 32 NIIRTA News ‐ Spring 2012 IFEX 2012: Mixing Up a Recipe for Success As Northern Ireland’s premier hospitality and catering event, IFEX 2012 will open its doors in just a few weeks’ time. Hosting a complex mix of new products, services, features and competitions, IFEX 2012 will be one of the hospitality and catering sectors’ flagship events this year. Taking place from 24 ‐ 26 April 2012, the biennial event has already generated an enormous amount of interest. IFEX’s special mix of content provides visitors with a forum to research what’s hot in the industry and meet with new suppliers. Not only do visitors get to meet with suppliers and make key contacts, but there are also FREE, content‐rich learnShops seminars which address hot industry trends and issues, led by industry experts. The learnShops have been developed to provide visitors with detailed, in‐depth knowledge and innovative practical advice that’s relevant to today’s business, with a solid line‐up already on board this year The exhibition not only showcases an Benyon, Managing Director of including Mintel and Michael array of live food demonstrations and easyFairs UK & Ireland, show McQuillan, founder of The Streat. competitions, but also hosts an organisers of IFEX. invaluable programme of seminars. In addition, some of the country’s most “IFEX’s busy line‐up of features IFEX 2012 takes place from 24 to 26 talented young chefs will travel to provides visitors with a lot to see and April 2012, at the King’s Hall, Belfast. compete over the three‐day show, in do during their visit as well as the For Further information on IFEX 2012 competitions such as IFEX ChefSkills opportunity to learn about new or to register for the show, visit 2012 and La Parade des Chefs, which products and approaches. It’s an www.easyFairs.com/IFEX; if you are both have a long history of awarding exciting show that will inspire and interested in exhibiting, contact some of Ireland’s most celebrated motivate visitors to adopt new Caroline McGuinness on 028 (048) chefs in the early stages of their approaches and carry new product 9068 3331 or email careers. lines for the coming years,” states Matt [email protected]). Page 33 Best ooff luck on 19 April to all the finalists aatt the UUlsterlster Bank Business AchieAchieversvers AwAwardsards 2011 Help fforor whawhatt mattersmatters Find out more at www.businessachieversaward.com In associationassociation with: Ulster Bank Limited. Registered in Northern Ireland. Registration Number R733. Registered Offfifice: 11-16 Donegall Square East, Belfast BT1 5UB. Authorised and regulated by the Financial Services Authority and entered on the FSA Register (Registration Number 122315) except in respect of our consumer credit products for which Ulster Bank Ltd is licensed and regulated by the Offfifice of Fair Trading. NIIRTA News ‐ Spring 2012 Phoenix Gas Prices Set To Fall Phoenix Supply has confirmed an 8.5% reduction in its prices for households and small businesses with the new lower rates applying from 1st April 2012. The price cut is due to a recent fall in the wholesale cost of gas. After taking this decrease into account, establishes our prices as being lower natural gas prices in Northern Ireland than the average standard tariffs will be around 6% lower than the applicable in both Great Britain and average standard tariff of the major the Republic of Ireland.” suppliers in Great Britain and 10% lower than the standard regulated Mr Strahan concluded: “This tariff in the Republic of Ireland. announcement is particularly welcome news for natural gas customers as the David Strahan, Managing Director of price of heating oil has been on Phoenix Supply, said: “We are average 26% more expensive than delighted to be able to make this natural gas over the past 12 months. announcement which again This shows that natural gas remains demonstrates our commitment to excellent value for money when delivering natural gas at the lowest compared to other fuels and is one of David Strahan sustainable price to our customers. the reasons why more and more This price reduction once again customers are choosing natural gas.” Page 35 NIIRTA News ‐ Spring 2012 Having its roots as Store Design conceptual drawings and mood boards & Display in the early 70s, through to final handing over of the Caem Store Design Ltd as it is completed shop fit places the company known today has evolved from in a favourable position. a major supplier of system As technology progresses and new tools metal shelving into one of and materials are made available to the Irelands most prolific shopfit market, Caem Store Design is constantly companies. updating both its internal infrastructure Its longstanding place in the market has and the choice of materials and options earned Caem Store Design a varied and which make it into the final design. From initial site survey, computer generated loyal client base. These include such has been busy installing some of its models are produced giving a photo businesses as The Henderson Group, most exciting and innovative work to realistic three dimensional view to any The Maxol Group, Gordon’s Chemists, date, not least of these being proposal allowing the client to walk Numark Chemists and Medicare McCaughan’s Pharmacy in Ballycastle. around their virtual shop before the real Pharmacy Group. James contacted Caem Store Design thing is put into production. This same with a brief to enhance certain specific A company that prides itself on its software is used to produce highly areas of his existing premises. As commitment to quality both in its accurate production drawings allowing shown, bold use of curves and service and design, Caem Store Design for manufacture and installation of any monochromatic materials emphasised knows that working closely with its component from a standard bay of with accent lighting to strategic areas customers is vital in ensuring the best system shelving to a bespoke piece. possible end result. Its ability to offer a provide a striking and functional complete turn‐key package from initial In recent months Caem Store Design addition to the fragrance and ONE CITY CONFERENCE AGENDA 9:30am Shaping Tomorrow’s Belfast Belfast OneCity MAY 10 | CULTÚRLANN McADAM Ó FIAICH 6pm Opening Reception/Fáiltiú Comhdháil Aon-Chathrach Bhéal Feirste Conference 6:30pm Opening of Conference 10:20am Tomorrow’s Belfast May10th 2012 | Cultúrlann McAdam Ó Fiaich May11th 2012 | Titanic Belfast 6:45pm Drawing It Together 10:35am ‘The Challenge and the Opportunity’ 7pm A New Narrative for a New Belfast 11:15am Our Time, Our Place? 7:45pm Tomorrow’s Belfast 12 Noon Living up to the Peace Dividend Promise 8pm The Quarters’ Health Check: One Year On On 10-11 May 2012 The Belfast Media Group will host the annual Belfast One City Conference spotlighting the vibrant city of Belfast. An international roster of speakers and delegates from every corner of Belfast will tackle the pressing challenges of the MAY 11 | TITANIC BELFAST day and debate how the city can best speak with one voice. 8:30am Registration 1pm One City Gala Luncheon The conference will open on the evening of Thursday May 10 at An Chultúrlann on the Falls Road and will move the following 9am Céad Míle Fáilte and Setting the Scene morning, May 11, to Titanic Belfast for a series of provocative and timely sessions. At Titanic Belfast, delegates will gather for for a Changing City The One City Gala Luncheon before touring the proposed inner-city campus of the University of Ulster. Conference will close 3pm Coming Home with a farewell finale reception at the residence of the US Consul General. 9:15am Conference Official Opening Address: A Better Belfast. Register online now at www.belfastmediagroup.com/onecity 7pm Finale Reception in the Residence of the For more information contact Connla McCann on 02890 611916 Consul General of the US. or email: [email protected] Minister Alex Attwood Rep Eugene O'Flaherty, David Dobbin Roisin McDonagh, Artist, Wolfgang Buttress Department of the Boston, USA Chair of SIB CEO, Arts Council ‘The Rise’ Environment CEO, Dale Farm NIIRTA News ‐ Spring 2012 dispensary areas while giving subtle Other recently completed fit outs privacy to the consultation area. include such clients as Quinns Off Sales Another existing pharmacy to be given in Cookstown, Islandbawn Offsales in the VIP (very inviting Pharmacy) Antrim, 5 Ways Supermarket and Off treatment was Maguire’s Pharmacy in Sales in Newry, Lyndsey Gracey Bangor. This independent pharmacy Pharmacy in Ballymena, Armstrong’s was due to be given a complete re‐ Pharmacy in Lisnaskea and Tim Corry working by its owner Garret Maguire Pharmacy in Clough along with many with the aim of providing his customers other independents. As an ever evolving with a greater choice of products and company, Caem Store Design is services while at the same time creating constantly looking to the future both in a more aesthetically pleasing interior. As terms of its client base and services the picture shows, a bold contrast of offered. In recent months Pharmacy fresh white and dark grey interplayed automation has been high on its agenda with colourful floral friezes creates a to meet the growing interest in robotic strikingly modern interior and the dispensary systems. Another area which inclusion of a private consultation area Designs recent refitting of Carlisle’s Caem are actively pursuing is the leisure affords customers with an additional set Fresh Foods in Ballynahinch is another industry with bars, clubs and of services. example of how a proven shop model restaurants in mind. However, breathing new life into can be improved upon while retaining www.caemstoredesign.com existing business is not exclusive to the many of the features that made it so T: 028 9084 9228 pharmaceutical market. Caem Store successful to begin with. E: [email protected] ONE CITY CONFERENCE AGENDA 9:30am Shaping Tomorrow’s Belfast Chair: Peter Dixon, CEO Phoenix Gas MAY 10 | CULTÚRLANN McADAM Ó FIAICH Eamonn McCartan, CEO Sport NI Annie Armstrong, Director Colin Partnership , 6pm Opening Reception/Fáiltiú Tony McCusker, Chair Community Relations Council 6:30pm Opening of Conference 10:20am Tomorrow’s Belfast Response by Rep Eugene O’Flaherty, Chair Judiciary Committee State House, Introduction: Sammy Douglas MLA May10th 2012 | Cultúrlann McAdam Ó Fiaich Boston, Massachusetts SKAINOS. Glenn Jordan • St Comgall’s Peace Visitor Centre. Gerry McConville 6:45pm Drawing It Together 10:35am ‘The Challenge and the Opportunity’ May11th 2012 | Titanic Belfast Mark Hackett, Forum for an Alternative Belfast Chair: Roisin Kelleher, CEO The Irish Language Broadcast Fund/An Ciste Craoltóireachta Gaeilge, Martxelo Otamendi, Editor Berria, Daily Basque 7pm A New Narrative for a New Belfast Language Newspaper (invited), Dr Alasdair Allen MSP, Minister for Learning, Chair: Roisín McDonough, CEO Arts Council of NI Science and Scotland’s Languages (invited), Carál Ní Chuilín MLA, Minister at Wolfgang Buttress, creator of Rise Department of Culture, Arts and Leisure Steve Orr, Generation Innovation Prof Conrad Atkinson, University of California at Davis 11:15am Our Time, Our Place? 7:45pm Tomorrow’s Belfast Chair: Howard Hastings, Chair Northern Ireland Tourist Board Tim Husbands, CEO Titanic Belfast Introduction Ciarán Mackel, ARD Ciarán Mackel Architects Paul Maskey MP, Chair Fáilte Feirste Thiar Raidió Fáilte: Fergus Ó hÍr • Belfast Pride: Simon Rea 12 Noon Living up to the Peace Dividend Promise 8pm The Quarters’ Health Check: One Year On Chair: Richard Barnett, Chair: Geraldine McAteer, CEO West Belfast Partnership Board Alderman Christopher Stalford, Chair Development Committee, Belfast City Paul McErlean, Cathedral Quarter, Eimear Ní Mhathúna, An Cheathrú Council (Invited) Belfast One City Conference Ghaeltachta, Mike Smith, Titanic Quarter David Dobbin, Chair Strategic Investment Board and Board Member Invest NI MAY 11 | TITANIC BELFAST Inez McCormack, Founder Participation and Practice of Rights Project Naomi Long), MP for East Belfast 8:30am Registration 1pm One City Gala Luncheon 9am Céad Míle Fáilte and Setting the Scene Recogising the Heroes of the One City. Guest Speaker: Rep Eugene O’Flaherty for a Changing City. 3pm Coming Home The One City Gala Luncheon Lord Mayor of Belfast Niall Ó Donnghaile A walking tour of the proposed University of Ulster Campus with Alastair 9:15am Conference Official Opening Address: Adair and tour guides. Finishing with visit to the new MAC and welcome from A Better Belfast. CEO Anne McReynolds. Register online now at www.belfastmediagroup.com/onecity Alex Attwood MLA, Minister at the Department of the Environment 7pm Finale Reception in the Residence of the For more information contact Connla McCann on 02890 611916 Consul General of the US. or email: [email protected] Minister Alex Attwood Rep Eugene O'Flaherty, David Dobbin Roisin McDonagh, Artist, Wolfgang Buttress Department of the Boston, USA Chair of SIB CEO, Arts Council ‘The Rise’ Environment CEO, Dale Farm NIIRTA News ‐ Spring 2012 Tax planning before the year-end In 2010, the government introduced a measure meaning for every £2 an individual earns over £100,000 per annum, £1 will be deducted from their personal allowance (£7,475). 25 years and we advise clients never This would allow £90,000 to pension to miss a chance to use them, either via Carry Forward plus the annual alone or as a tax‐free zone within their allowance of £50,000 = TOTAL pension portfolio. contribution of £140,000 It may sound a long shot but a modest growth of 5% a year and the small More tax planning options which matter of a 25‐year horizon will do the may be available trick for a couple pooling their ISA allowances. Assuming a 5% rate of Capital Gains Tax growth a year, this could be worth Investments such as unit trusts are £1.074m, or £1.686m assuming 8% subject to Capital Gains tax rather than growth. income tax on profits. Additional rate taxpayers should aim to benefit from Claire Geddis Reclaim your personal allowance the CGT annual exemption of £10,600. and benefit from tax relief at up to Also consider holding investments The pension annual allowance also 60% jointly with a spouse to benefit from reduced from £255,000 to £50,000 If you earn over £100,000, you can two annual exemptions. and the Stocks and Shares Individual reclaim your income tax personal Example Saving Account (ISA) maximum has allowance by making payments to a If you held a range of unit trusts worth increased from £10,200 to £10,680. As pension. For example, if you earn £120,000 at 6 April 2010 and these a result, this tax year presents £115,000 a net payment of £12,000 to are worth £130,500 on 5 April 2011 opportunities for individuals earning your pension would reduce your you could encash the whole amount above £100,000 to lower their tax bill taxable income to £100,000 and and have no tax to pay. This is because and increase their savings. reinstate your full personal allowance. the ‘profit’ is less than your annual As a higher rate taxpayer you will also exemption. Making full use of the increased ISA be able to claim back more tax through allowance self‐assessment. The net effect of 40% Estate planning This year the ISA allowance has tax relief and reclaiming your personal Consider using trusts to provide not increased to £10,680 per individual – allowance means that the actual tax only tax benefits but to provide shelter that is £21,360 of tax free investing benefit of the tax contribution can be and protection for family assets. per married couple and will increase as much as 60%. to £22,500 in April 2012. S Hill & Co LLP is an appointed Dozens of people have created huge Pay even more than £50,000 into representative of Burns‐Anderson Ltd, pots of money by the simple act of your pension this year 27 Great George Street, Bristol BS1 investing in individual savings The new carry forward rules let you 5QT, which is authorised and regulated accounts so ignore your tax‐free ISA use up unused pension annual by the Financial Services Authority. allowance at your peril – you could be allowance from the past three years in FSA Registration No: 126191 missing out on a million‐pound addition to your annual allowance of fortune. Savers who have religiously £50,000 for 2011/12. salted away their full annual PEP and ISA allowance over the past 25 years Carry Forward Example have amassed a tidy fortune; there are Tax Year How much you paid How S Hill & Co, 238 Upper Newtownards dozens of ISA millionaires across the much can you carry forward Road, Belfast, BT4 3EU. country. 2008/09 £25,000 £25,000 T: +44 (0)28 90656624 ISAs and PEPs [personal equity plans, 2009/10 £20,000 £30,000 F: +44 (0)28 90656634 ISAs' predecessors] have been such a 2010/11 £15,000 £35,000 www.investmentdecisions.co.uk valuable savings medium over the past Carry forward total £90,000 [email protected] Page 38 NIIRTA News ‐ Spring 2012 Help is at hand for independent retailers to combat the drain to on-line sales High-street retailers are urged to take steps to avoid losing out to online sales, which have made up over £50 billion (£1 billion in 2001) worth of retail spending in the UK in 2011. “It’s time for retailers to accounts will also be linked in embrace technology and to this activity. The begin the journey of building Association intends to one to one customer develop this over the coming relationships in order to months and are confident maintain or increase their that this ability to market to sales performance” said customers who shop locally Peter Carrington, founder of and have expressed their MyYuHu.com. Peter made preferences will result in a the comments at the launch high level of loyalty, increased of MyYuHu, a touch screen Glyn Roberts with Peter Carrington footfall and repeat business. database builder and communications platform and retailer alike from fantastic results for The fixed costs of bricks and that enables shops to quickly cultivating long‐term businesses across the UK, mortar retail coupled with and accurately store the relationships.” with one pilot scheme in the prolonged economic contact details and shopping ‘MyYuHu’ provides the Cheshire already reporting downturn have put paid to preferences of customers solution for retailers, helping strong sales growth and a many stores in urban centres. and then prepare and deliver them to promote to shoppers positive response from marketing messages to them the unique deals and the customers who feel both Glynn Roberts Chief on a one to one basis via text tailored service that they can appreciated and rewarded. Executive of NIIRTA said that and email. only get from their local high‐ Meanwhile, in Belfast, innovative tools like MyYuHu street shop. MyYuHu is non‐ MyYuHu has undertaken a would be central to Stressing that innovative technical, it’s engaging and is a unique initiative with a local businesses holding their relationship building was a vital tool in the battle to keep business group, the Lisburn ground and growing in the key way in which shops could your customers informed to Road Business Association future “Poor trading hope to sustain their business, build relationships, reward which lists amongst its conditions have conspired Peter Carrington said: “High loyalty and grow sales and at members top end fashion against many retailers in Street stores need to respond less than £10 per week to retailers, restaurants, wine recent years. But what many proactively to the fact that operate (excl VAT), it is very bars, financial services and shop‐owners need to often they are being used affordable. private health clinics. The contend with is the fact that simply as the “window shop” strategy here is that their business isn’t going before the web shop. MyYuHu offers retailers individual businesses will away; it’s simply going Consumers need attractive flexible packages of very operate a YuHu system and online. MyYuHu has the and compelling reasons to competitively priced text and build their own database for capability to help them to come to a store. For many this emails to suit their needs their use and the Association combat this drain which has may be the expert knowledge, and MyYuHu also offers the will use the database, where seen nearly 10% of all sales personal service or great ability to segregate permission has been granted go online.” value on offer. However, if the customers and send only by their customers to keep business is not relevant messages to them them informed of monthly Further information about communicating this to their thereby keeping intrusion to events, promotions and MyYuHu can be found on customers then they shouldn’t a minimum and saving on items of local interest by www.myyuhu.com or by be surprised if they are lured costs. Trials where the either text or e‐zine linked contacting Peter Carrington elsewhere. There are clear product has been rolled out through the LRBA web‐site. directly by e‐mail at benefits to both the customer are already delivering Their Facebook and Twitter [email protected]. Page 39 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 50 13 49 14 48 15 47 16 MAKES DOUBLE THE SQUASH UNIQUE FLOW RESTRICTOR SPECIAL EASY GRIP SAME GREAT TASTE 46 17 45 18 44 19 43 20 42 21 41 22 40 23 39 24 38 25 37 36 35 34 33 32 31 30 29 28 27 26