ChamberSOMERSET August 2016 Of Commerce & Industry Ltd

REPRESENTING AND WORKING FOR BUSINESSES www.somerset-chamber.co.uk Hinkley Update The Somerset Business

Magazine Hinkley go-ahead celebrations on hold See pages 4 & 5

EU Referendum

EDF’s“WeEDF’s thoroughly longlong--awaitedawaited enjoyed our finalfinal day investmentoutinvestment supporting adecisiondecision well worthy charity, it was superbly Somerset MPs share demonstratesdemonstrates aa significantsignificant votevote their views post-Brexit See pages 6 & 7 oforganisedof confidenceconfidence and we look inin thethe forward local,local, to attending other events in British Chambers regionalfuture.”regional andand nationalnational supply-supply Andrew Jeanes chain.chain.

FullFullFull story storystory page pagepage 16 44 QES reveals sub-par UK economic growth See page 13

Skills

Zero university fees for College centre See page 17

Events

Upcoming events See pages 19 & 20

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Contents About Us...

3 CEO’s Update 17 Yeovil College Magazine Editor University Centre Scarlett Scott-Collins 4 Hinkley Point C Update Address: MPs’ Views Post-Brexit 18 Somerset Business 6 Somerset Chamber of Commerce Awards 8 New Members & Industry Ltd 19 Upcoming Events Equity House 9 New Somerset Blackbrook Park Avenue Chamber Patron 20 Somerset Chamber Blackbrook Business Park Events Calendar Taunton Somerset 10 Members’ News TA1 2PX 12 Business News T: 01823 444924 13 British Chambers of E: [email protected] Commerce W: www.somerset-chamber.co.uk

14 Town Chamber News Working in conjunction with the following Somerset Chamber members Member Focus: 15 to produce and distribute this edition: Fisher & Company  Character Graphics Apprenticeships Day 16  Dome Marketing Ltd  Mailadoc Ltd

With Thanks to our Patrons

AgustaWestland A-Plant Bradfords Group Bridgwater College

BT EDF Energy Elecsis Laing O’Rourke Somerset County Council

Somerset County Thales Wessex Reserve Forces’ & Yeovil College Cricket Club Cadets’ Association

Front cover image courtesy of EDF Energy

CEO’s Update

information is Dale Edwards reflects on the UK’s position post-Brexit and looks to the future of up-to-date including contact Somerset details, experience and It is now just over a month since the country awoke to accreditations. the news that the electorate had decided Britain would be better off outside the EU. This resulted in a The Hinkley significant amount of political chaos and short term Supply Chain financial turmoil as the world waited to see what Team has also would happen next. been busy creating a There were predictions from some that the country Professional would suffer an economic Armageddon by deciding to Services Group, leave the EU – there were similar fears with the Y2K which aims to provide a support network to those millennium bug for those who can remember, which looking to bid, win and manage contracts going never came to pass. A few weeks on, the initial shock forward. More news to follow on this in a future of the news is subsiding and Armageddon has not issue… happened. As a Chamber, we are preparing for the future and Clearly we face uncertain times and many business I am delighted that Carla Tier has joined us as our new people are understandably concerned about what the Marketing and Communications Manager. Somerset future will bring, particularly those exporting, born and bred, Carla brings a wealth of experience to importing and with strong European connections. the team having worked with high profile Somerset However, with change comes opportunity, so now is businesses in the past. Over the coming weeks new the time for the business community to remain calm team members will join, and we have said farewell to and focused on business growth. Jenn Chidley-Sanders for a while as she goes off on While the Somerset Chamber and the British maternity leave. All at the Chamber wish her well and Chambers of Commerce are politically neutral, I am look forward to seeing her new-born soon, but she is pleased that the Conservative Party has chosen its planning to remain heavily involved in the Somerset new leader in a timely and organised manner, and Business Awards after the birth, such is her dedication that it did not take until September which would have to the Somerset Chamber and the business generated a further two months of uncertainty. It is community of Somerset. great that we have local MP Dr Liam Fox in the I finish this month with a quick reminder about the cabinet as Secretary of State for International Trade. Somerset Business Awards. Entries close on 22nd I am pleased that a new department of Business, August and I would encourage all Somerset Energy and Industrial Strategy has been created and businesses to enter. This is an excellent opportunity to that comments from senior cabinet ministers seem showcase business success and celebrate our thriving supportive of the proposed plans to build Hinkley business community. See page 18 of this issue for Point C, which would certainly provide a boost for our more details. local economy. I hope you’re having a great summer! Over the last few months, the Hinkley Supply Chain Team, led by the Somerset Chamber of Commerce, has been working exceptionally hard and in partnership with EDF Energy and Tier 1 contractors, identifying more work packages and requirements Dale Edwards and matching these to South West businesses CEO of the Somerset Chamber of Commerce registered on the supply chain portal. These are being identified and released on a regular basis, so I would strongly recommend that all 3,200 businesses on the portal revisit their submissions to ensure the

3 Hinkley Point C Update

FID celebrations on hold due to further further progress on the project will be delayed until the delay for Hinkley Point C autumn. Mr Clark said that ministers would examine the project, The long-awaited stating, “The UK needs a reliable and secure energy announcement that EDF has supply and the government believes that nuclear made a Final Investment energy is an important part of the mix. The government Decision (FID) to proceed with will now consider carefully all the component parts of the £18billion construction of this project and make its decision in the early Hinkley Point C finally came at autumn.” the end of last month. While the announcement of a government review came On 28th July, EDF’s Board of as a surprise to the vast majority of people, sources Directors voted in favour of the final investment within the Conservative Party have suggested that this decision, giving the go-ahead to build the two nuclear should not have been entirely unexpected, given new reactors at Hinkley Point C. Prime Minister Theresa May’s reputation for focusing The news was warmly welcomed by the Somerset on the detail. Chamber of Commerce and local businesses on the On a more positive note, recent comments from Hinkley supply chain, with the project expected to Britain’s new Chancellor of the Exchequer, Philip provide a great boost for the Somerset and South Hammond, have shown support for the project. West economy. Speaking on BBC Radio 4’s Today programme earlier in Speaking following the FID announcement, Chris the month, the Chancellor said that he was “confident Langdon, Project Lead for the Somerset Chamber’s that we will be able to get the Hinkley Point project Hinkley Supply Chain Team, said, “This is very positive going ahead”. news for local businesses registered on the supply chain portal as it means that contracts with a number of Tier 1 preferred bidders can now be signed, leading to full mobilisation of teams and works on site, with real opportunities arising for the local supply chain. “The Hinkley Supply Chain Team will continue to engage with EDF Energy and Tier 1 teams to identify opportunities early and drive the engagement process, sourcing and promoting the most capable suppliers against identified requirements. We will also continue to capture supplier capability for Somerset and the South West, as well as stimulating and facilitating collaboration where relevant. Summing up the importance of Hinkley Point C, he said, “Being able to deliver a reliable power supply is “We encourage all suppliers already on the supply an absolute prerequisite for a modern, dynamic, chain portal to review their registration and ensure functioning economy and we have to make sure that all details are fully up-to-date. Other businesses we continue to generate the power that is needed for interested in the opportunity that Hinkley Point C the UK grid. Hinkley Point will make a huge presents should register immediately – registration is contribution – 6% of our total power generation free of charge and there are still many opportunities for capacity – and we have to make sure that that project businesses on the portal to be part of the project over goes ahead.” the coming months and years.” While the delay is frustrating, the Somerset Chamber But despite the green light from EDF, an unexpected has reiterated its confidence in the development, announcement later that evening from the Business adding that this may give more local businesses an and Energy Secretary, Greg Clark, has meant that any opportunity to get involved.

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Chief Executive Dale Edwards said, “The unexpected announcement regarding a government review will no doubt be very frustrating for the many businesses that have been awaiting the green light from EDF. “However, we were very much encouraged by the fact that EDF’s long-awaited final investment decision demonstrates a significant vote of confidence in the local, regional and national supply chain being ready, willing and able to deliver this major infrastructure project. We remain positive that the project will go ahead.

“This is a huge opportunity – it is likely to be the biggest construction project in Europe – and Dr Adam Marshall, Acting Director General of the having a little more time for suppliers to ensure they British Chambers of Commerce, said, “Delays in are fully prepared is no bad thing, as well as potentially making decisions on key infrastructure investments is giving more local firms an opportunity to get involved becoming a depressing theme of successive in the supply chain activity. governments. Action is needed now to ensure that the energy, transport and communications needs of the “Already we have five local supplier groups announced country are met now and in the future. Our ageing as preferred bidders for contracts with a value of infrastructure is already having detrimental effects on around £225million, involving over 20 local and businesses, and any decisions taken today will still regional businesses. Contracts to the value of take many years to become operational. £50million have already been awarded and are being delivered by almost 200 suppliers in Somerset, with “While it is important for the government to properly another £58million worth of contracts currently with assess the full details of the deal on offer before suppliers across the South West, so the economic making its final decision, the UK simply cannot afford benefits for the region are already being realised. to prevaricate on issues that are of vital importance to our economy. The additional re-invigoration to local “We understand that Theresa May and the new economies that large road, rail, airport, digital and cabinet want to go over the details of the contract, energy infrastructure projects would create through but it is important that we get a decision quickly to supply chain contracts, would also be a welcome boon avoid any long term uncertainty, not only for the to UK businesses at this time of transition.” economic resilience of the region but also for the country’s long term energy security. A strong message Hinkley Point C is expected to boost the South West that the UK and particularly the South West is open regional economy by £100million per year during the for business needs to be communicated, to instil the peak of the construction period, boosting business confidence that will have been dented following the capability and productivity, improving skills levels in government’s decision to delay. the workforce, and attracting high quality firms to the region. “In the meantime, the Somerset Chamber’s Hinkley Supply Chain Team will continue to work with EDF, its The Somerset Chamber of Commerce manages the Tier 1 contractors and the businesses registered on Hinkley supply chain portal and is the first point of the portal to ensure that as many local businesses contact for Somerset and South West businesses benefit from the project as possible.” wishing to engage in the construction of the proposed nuclear new build project. On a national level, the British Chambers of Commerce urged the government to make the necessary For information on registration, work packages and investments in infrastructure in order to support the more, visit www.hinkleysupplychain.co.uk UK’s businesses and economy.

Images courtesy of EDF Energy

5 MPs’ Views Post-Brexit

Somerset MPs address local businesses following the EU referendum Britain’s vote to leave the European Union following the recent referendum has caused widespread upheaval across the political parties. David Cameron’s resignation and the subsequent leadership contest within the Conservative Party have resulted in a new Prime Minister and Cabinet, while the question of party leadership remains a priority within both the Labour Party and UKIP. While the political turmoil and speed of change following the referendum raised further uncertainty for many in business, the swift progress that has been made in recent weeks is reassuring, with an increased focus on stabilising the UK economy and communicating that Britain is ‘open for business’. We contacted all of the Members of Parliament within Somerset, asking them what they wanted to say to businesses in their constituencies following the ‘Brexit’ vote. Due to their schedules, not all of the MPs were able to respond by the time we went to print but from the comments we did receive, their outlooks for the future are generally positive.

Ian Liddell-Grainger MP Member of Parliament for Bridgwater and West Somerset “During the fractious Referendum campaign I met several Somerset business leaders who wished it would all go away. Political uncertainty never helps trade. Customers go coy, caution takes hold, and the old Ostrich survival instinct kicks in. “Burying heads in the sand, however, was never going to be an effective answer. Yes, there are still more questions than answers about the precise layout of life when the UK leaves the EU. There will be challenges and pitfalls – some of them unwelcome. “We do not know how negotiations on trade with our former partners will fare. But I am convinced that the outcome will be less of a shock to the system than some doom-laden voices have predicted. What is encouraging is the speed with which the stock market has settled. The exodus of global companies is no longer being talked about. The threat of economic Armageddon has receded. We have to thank the resilience of our home grown entrepreneurs for this. “Brexit was not what the new Prime Minister wanted, but she promises to deliver. I am putting my trust in her and in the ingenuity of Somerset’s business community. Like the poster says – ‘Keep calm and carry on!’”

Rebecca Pow MP Member of Parliament for Taunton Deane “Having been in contact with businesses across Taunton Deane, I understand current uncertainties are causing some to pause investment decisions as we take stock of our relationship with Europe.

“Government is fully aware that what business needs is stability and I am pleased that a prolonged leadership campaign has been avoided and that we have our new Prime Minister, Theresa May. An experienced, respected and determined leader, she has moved with speed to put her new government in place to start work immediately so that signals of reassurance can be given to business and to international investors that the UK is open for trade. “We have a sound base from which to build, where 2.5million jobs have been created in the last six years. The deficit has been reduced by two thirds and some of the major banks have been recapitalised. “In the light of our new Brexit status, the economy will change and will require a different set of parameters, but I am optimistic this government with its raft of new appointments will ensure a swift transition, enabling business to invest and grow. “Developing a workforce with the right skills is key to a successful future and the apprenticeship scheme, fuelled by the business levy, must deliver on this.”

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James Heappey MP Member of Parliament for Wells

“I came to the conclusion that we should remain in the EU because I thought the economic consequences of Brexit were too uncertain. The referendum gave us a different result so, as bizarre as it feels, I now genuinely hope to be proven wrong. “The new Prime Minister has got off to a great start. I like that the Foreign & Commonwealth Office will be able to develop our relationships with the rest of the world unfettered by the minutiae of Brexit because that will be negotiated by a department devoted to the cause. The creation of a Department for International Trade is hugely exciting and we already have countries seeking a deal with us. In the longer term there is plenty to be optimistic about. “However none of that should mask the reality of the challenges over the next year or two. No matter how well our negotiations go, in the interim there will be doubt over our access to the single market and that may deter customers or suppliers from trading with us until our longer term trading arrangement with the EU is better understood. There is no consolation for that other than to batten down the hatches, weather the storm and look forward to the deals that lie ahead.” Marcus Fysh MP Member of Parliament for Yeovil “I firmly believe the referendum result has created an opportunity for business. Being able to access the single market whilst being able to trade with non-EU nations on our own terms should bring new benefits, and less regulation should mean small business can thrive. “Whilst some uncertainty during the negotiation is inevitable, I think most people understand we have a vibrant economy and are in a strong position to keep trade free and reach deals quickly. Moreover we are redoubling efforts to improve competitiveness, with radical national and local policies that should underpin the future of local business. “Many small businesses will stop paying business rates altogether from April, something I have campaigned passionately for, and we are looking to increase and accelerate infrastructure investment, reduce and simplify other taxes, and boost skills in our area. “We are also looking to integrate the above in a joined up industrial strategy in which we listen to business needs and capitalise on opportunities coming from the Hinkley and A303 investments. “Free town centre car parking periods would also boost high streets and smaller retailers and I will continue to encourage local authorities in that direction.”

What do you think? We are keen to hear your views, so please join the conversation online by visiting our LinkedIn Group discussion.

7 New Members

Broadoak Financial Consulting Ltd Dub'l-lif Taunton Ltd Chartered Accountancy Practice Cleaning Product Manufacturers Ashley Pocock Mark Petrich 07949 941518 01823 333568 www.broadoakconsulting.co.uk www.dubl-lif.co.uk

Chadwick Holdings Shetland Facilities Management Commercial Property Investors Facilities & Security Management Richard Douglas Simon Orchard 01275 795395 01275 398865 www.chadwickholdings.co.uk www.shetlandfm.com

Cornelsen Ltd X-Press Legal Services Industrial Water Filtration Conveyancing Search Providers Quentin Hulm John Watt 01275 856700 0330 159 5311 www.cornelsen.co.uk www.xpresslegal.co.uk

Richard Douglas, Managing Director, introduces Chadwick Holdings Ltd The Chadwick Group of Companies is a family owned commercial property business based in Clevedon, North Somerset, and is active across the South West and Wales. Our main activities centre on direct property investment, with a special interest in multi-let office buildings with active asset management potential. We have also been developing a business centre network over the last two years, and provide seed capital for property-related new starts. We purchased the 32,000 sq ft Exchange Building at Express Park, Bridgwater, in May 2016 with a view to reinvigorating the building with our ‘hands on’ approach to marketing, being flexible in our negotiations with tenants and making sure we provide a first class working environment. To ensure we deliver what our occupiers need, we go the extra mile by providing ultra-high speed internet services so that our occupiers can move in quickly. If required, we’ll also provide furniture and fit-out under a turn-key solution where everything is taken care of by our projects team. Our first investment into Somerset has been such a positive experience, with lettings agreed within the first two months to companies including Skanska and Parent Pay, besides the many other positive things occurring in Bridgwater and the county in general. www.chadwickholdings.co.uk

8 New Somerset Chamber Patron

Welcome to new Somerset Chamber Patron, Hinkley C contracts too! Wessex Reserve Forces’ & Cadets’ “Our core business is supporting Reserves and Cadets, Association but in so doing we have to talk to the businesses they work in, or aspire to work in. Why then would we not talk

Wessex Reserve to businesses about how else members of the Armed Forces’ & Cadets’ Forces can bring benefit to them? Association (RFCA) “I am delighted that the Somerset Chamber, as well as has become a some of the Chamber’s Partners, are in the process of Patron of the Somerset Chamber of Commerce. adopting an Armed Forces Covenant to demonstrate that From the organisation’s headquarters in Taunton, they are Armed Forces friendly. We look forward to Wessex RFCA is responsible for the wellbeing of the helping Dale and the Board define and communicate the region's Reserve Forces and Cadets, promoting the detail of this.” interests of the Armed Forces and building relationships Somerset Chamber CEO, Dale Edwards, added, “I am with the local community and employers. It is an delighted that the Wessex Reserve Forces’ & Cadets’ independent, not-for-profit organisation dedicated to Association has become the Somerset Chamber’s latest supporting and promoting the 3,000 tri-service Patron. Prior to this, Wessex RFCA and the Somerset Reservists and 14,000 Cadets across the South West Chamber were already working together, with Wessex of England. RFCA sponsoring a number of Chamber events. I was Jon Beake, Senior Employer Engagement Director, said, immediately impressed with their aims of supporting the “Very proudly Wessex RFCA has been a member wellbeing of the region’s Reserve Forces and Cadets, organisation of Somerset Chamber for around 11 years, and we at the Somerset Chamber will be supporting and has taken the step to become a Patron in order to them at their events too. allow us the great opportunity to support and contribute “One particular focus of Wessex RFCA is to encourage to the success of Somerset businesses. businesses to employ a Reservist and I am pleased to announce that the Chamber has recruited Carla Tier, “In addition to seeking to represent its members’ who is a Reservist for 39 Signal Regiment, as our new interests at a county and Marketing and Communications Manager. As a Chamber national level, the Somerset we are committed to signing up to the Armed Services Chamber offers great Covenant, with more news on this later in the year.” opportunities to engage with the business community INTER-MEMBER OFFER: across the county in very well hosted and facilitated Wessex RFCA is offering members a cost free, no networking events, obligation consultation on how partnering with Defence discussing a range of key might benefit their business. issues from skills gaps and For more information, contact Jon Beake on 01823 employability to business 250110 or email [email protected] development and growth. www.wessex-rfca.org.uk “At Wessex RFCA, our remit is to engage with all sectors of society to increase awareness and understanding of the Armed Forces community. A large part of what we do involves communicating with businesses to ensure that they receive tangible benefits through partnering with Defence. The Life Online project aims to contribute to “We all want to create a vibrant and sustainable Europe 2020 Strategy, Rethinking Education & economic environment and we believe we can help Youth Guarantee by helping to address the high Somerset and South West businesses do just that. rates of youth unemployment and skills gaps. This “A range of links can be made between businesses and is a three year project that runs from the Armed Forces community, from recruiting ex-Service 1st September 2015 to 31st August 2018. personnel; supporting Reservists, Cadets or Service spouses; to advertising to the Armed Forces community. To find out more, visit We can also assist with providing personnel for the www.lifeonline.education

9 Members’ News

Lisa Osborne, Centre Stand Against Violence charity ball raises Manager of Baby Basics over £7,000 South Somerset, said, “We A great night was had by all at have been overwhelmed the Stand Against Violence with the positive response charity ball on Friday 8th July. to Baby Basics. It is such a simple and practical project The Taunton Rugby Club that everyone can provided a top quality three course meal and the understand and be a part evening was filled with fun and entertainment, of. It was amazing to raise including live music by the talented Nightshift. Guests so much at our launch and reported that this was one of the best years yet and this will enable us to make look forward to attending again. a huge difference to vulnerable women and their new babies in our The evening raised over £7,000 for Stand Against community.” Violence to help in the charity’s continued work to www.themonksyard.co.uk reduce violence in our communities.

Adam Fouracre, founder Wetroom manufacturer achieves of Stand Against recertification for ISO 9001 and ISO 14001 Violence, said, “It has been a terrific night. Impey Wetrooms, based in There were a lot of new Ilton, has received faces in the room, which recertification to the is great to see, and I international ISO standards – ISO 9001 and ISO hope everyone had a 14001. great time. The money raised is extremely Established over 20 years ago, Impey is the leading valuable in helping us continue to meet our aims and UK-based designer and manufacturer of wetroom we are grateful to everyone who supported the night.” components. Employing 60 people locally, the firm showcases its glass shower screens, waterproofing Stand Against Violence thanked sponsors Claims equipment and unique and exclusive floor formers, Consortium Group, Red Berry Recruitment, Santander, which are used in both domestic and healthcare Eden, Party On Warehouse and Food 4 You, as well as settings, at internationally attended bathroom all who donated items to the auction. exhibitions across the country. www.standagainstviolence.co.uk Impey’s ISO 9001 is evidence of the implementation of a quality Monks Yard launches new charity project management system for all areas of the business Monks Yard near including facilities, people, Ilminster launched training, services and its latest community equipment. The ISO 14001 project in July, having already raised over £8,000 for certification confirms charitable causes in the past two years. Impey’s commitment to In 2014, the Monks Yard team decided to give running an environmentally something back to the community by hosting MY aware business, helping to Community days – one day a month where it gives reduce waste, carbon away a large proportion of its café takings to nominated footprint and lowering environmental liability. charities. Continuous Improvement Manager, Nigel Lusby, said, On July’s community day, Monks Yard launched its new “We are incredibly proud of what we have achieved. project, Baby Basics South Somerset. This provides the These important certifications demonstrate that we essential items needed for life with a new baby to take all aspects of our business very seriously. They vulnerable families, through midwives and other are a good reflection of the quality and effort that goes healthcare professionals. £369 was raised on the day, into the running of the business; making it a fabulous plus Monks Yard’s customers made numerous place to work and a great company to do business donations including new and second-hand clothing, with.” nappies and toiletries. www.impeyshowers.com 10

Charity festival is a record breaker This is a great achievement for once again the young family-run business in only its first year of entering Home Farm Fest, the International Cider the biggest annual Challenge, which attracts fundraiser for the submissions from across the charity School in a Bag, has once again smashed its globe. previous year’s fundraising total, raising just over Owner Harry Fry says, “We are £60,000 in 2016. It has now raised over a quarter of all delighted with the awards a million pounds in its 11 year history. we’ve received this year. The This year the festival organisers made some changes framework of the business to the layout, including introducing a fifth stage. There has been set by our standards were 96 performances over the three days – almost a and success so far, but there is still a lot of work to be 25% rise on the amount of music and other acts on done. We intend to expand the Harry’s Cider range and offer compared with last year. Festival numbers have are continually striving to improve the quality of the risen by nearly 1,000 people in the past two years. ciders we make.” www.harryscidercompany.co.uk Luke Simon, Founder and CEO of School in a Bag and Home Poolbridge Accountancy apprentices Farm Fest organiser, said, “This year took celebrate success us by surprise once Two apprentices at again! Our ticket Poolbridge sales far exceeded Accountancy are any previous year in celebrating after completing their apprenticeships, the lead-up to the festival and we couldn’t believe just with both keen to continue their accountancy careers how far some people are travelling for it now. at the growing practice. “With the festival getting bigger, it means relying on Lucy Kitching completed an Administration more volunteers, and we are so lucky to have such a apprenticeship in May and is keen to enrol on an AAT brilliant team who help from setting everything up, Accountancy course from September. being here over the festival weekend and then helping Sam Vining, one of the practice’s bookkeepers, has tidy up afterwards. We’re only a small team who run completed AAT Level 3 and is already looking at the charity and organise the festival, so we are truly courses that will enable her to specialise in VAT. grateful for all the help we receive.” Alongside studying AAT, she has also completed Sage www.schoolinabag.org Accounts and Payroll courses. Caroline Phillimore, Managing Director of Harry’s Cider awards success goes global Poolbridge Accountancy, said, “We’re really proud of Somerset craft cider company Lucy and Sam, who have Harry’s Cider has won a sweep of both completed their recent awards, with medals from the courses and have grown Taste of the West Awards, the British into really valued members Cider Championships and now the of the team. It is important International Cider Challenge. to us at Poolbridge Accountancy to make sure all of our employees are Harry’s Original and Harry’s Dabinett sparkling ciders well supported and continually developed, so they can have both been awarded Bronze medals at the reach their full potential, as well as delivering the best International Cider Challenge, which is organised by possible service for our clients.” leading trade publication Off Licence News. The standard of this year’s competition was extremely Based near Burnham-on-Sea and Cheddar, Poolbridge high according to the organisers, and the judging Accountancy offers a wide range of accountancy, panel – comprised of buyers, award-winning bookkeeping and payroll services to businesses and independent retailers, cider experts, journalists and individuals. cider makers – were very impressed overall. www.poolbridgeaccountancy.com 11 Business News

Reform to business rates appeals process Advice for employers about vaping in the The Department for Communities and Local workplace Government (DCLG) has outlined its plans to reform Public Health England has published an advice the business rates appeals process. Under the plans, framework to help firms develop evidence-based a new online service will enable business owners to e-cigarette policies for the workplace. The framework quickly and efficiently check and challenge their identifies five objectives to be considered when business rates bills, while a new three-stage ‘check, drafting an e-cigarette policy, which include making a challenge, appeal’ process will help prevent clear distinction between vaping and smoking and speculative appeals and ensure genuine disputes are ensuring the policy is based on evidence of harm to resolved more quickly. bystanders. Business owners will be charged a £300 fee to lodge Each objective is accompanied by considerations. For an appeal, which is refunded if the appeal is example, although the framework makes it clear that successful. However, small business owners may be there is insufficient evidence to ban workers from eligible for a reduced fee rate when making an vaping to protect their non-vaping colleagues, it also appeal, as part of a package to support small firms advises employers to take into consideration the which will provide guidance to help them navigate the interests of people with asthma and other respiratory system without the need for professional support. conditions. The plans follow a DCLG consultation on the appeals process launched in October 2015, where the For further information: majority of respondents said that the current system www.gov.uk/government/news/vaping-in-public- was overly complex and in need of reform. places-advice-for-employers-and-organisations For further information: www.gov.uk/government/news/businesses-rate- Lack of business finance knowledge main appeals-reform-set-to-streamline-the-system challenge for start ups One in five owners of small and medium-sized CMA seeks views on legal services market businesses consider not having knowledge about study business finance as the biggest challenge they faced when first starting up, according to a survey by the The Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) has Association of Accounting Technicians. The survey published an interim report on legal services provision found that 12% of business owners struggled from of a for small firms and consumers in England and Wales. lack of marketing knowledge when starting up and This is part of an overall market study into legal 11% struggled with legal knowledge. While more services, and the CMA is seeking views on the report's business owners said they were hindered by a lack of findings. According to the report, the legal services knowledge about business finance, only 11% said they market is not working as well as it might and lack of wished they had spent more time on finance when information is identified as a key problem. starting out, in comparison to 19% of respondents who For example, just 17% of legal service providers said they would have spent more time on marketing to publish their fees online and there are few tools generate leads and customers. available to help compare service providers. The The survey also reveals that 26% of business owners CMA's Rachel Merelie explained that, for many small launched their firm after less than a month of firms and consumers, legal services are infrequently researching their business idea, while 29% spent more purchased and "a lack of experience or prior than six months doing research. knowledge makes it very challenging to assess what represents good value". Comments about the report For further information: can be submitted by e-mail or post until 19th August www.aat.org.uk/news/article/what-i-wish-i%E2% 2016. 80%99d-known- lack-finance-marketing-and-legal-knowledge-big- For further information: issues-sme-owners www.gov.uk/government/news/cma-seeks-views- on-ways-to-help-legal-services-customers Source: BAD News (Business Advisers’ News)

12 British Chambers of Commerce

Quarterly Economic Survey: “Yet it is not too early for us to say what business wants to see: stability in markets, clarity in politics, and action Sub-par UK economic growth even prior to on the issues that matter for growth. At a time of EU Referendum transition, all the businesses I speak to want Westminster to lead by example – by making bold The latest British Chambers of Commerce (BCC) decisions to progress key infrastructure and th Quarterly Economic Survey, published on 12 July, construction projects, by guaranteeing that EU workers suggests that UK economic growth was uninspiring in can stay in British firms, and by seeking the best the run-up to the EU Referendum. possible future terms of trade for the UK. Business The survey is Britain’s largest and most authoritative confidence would be buoyed by strong and clear private sector business survey, based on over 8,200 leadership, both on the timeline for EU negotiations responses from firms in Q2 2016. The biggest and on the big decisions unrelated to our future snapshot of how the UK economy was performing just relationship with the EU.” before the referendum, it shows that several key indicators remained static, or at a low ebb. The BCC’s Quarterly Economic Survey is the first Our services sector – the UK’s main driver of economic economic indicator of the quarter, published in growth – saw domestic and overseas sales fall ahead advance of official figures and other private surveys, of the referendum, and manufacturing sales remained and it consistently mirrors trends in official data. For at a historically low ebb. On the basis of this data, the this reason the survey is closely watched by BCC said that it did not expect official data to record an policymakers such as the Treasury, the Bank of improvement in UK GDP for Q2. England, the Office of Budget Responsibility, the EU Commission and the IMF. The survey results suggest that even before the uncertainty caused by the EU referendum result, To view the key findings from the QES Q2 2016 survey, uninspiring growth rates would have required future visit the Newsroom section of the Somerset Chamber action to shore up business confidence and promote website. investment. The BCC is calling on the government to www.britishchambers.org.uk get on with the big domestic decisions that underpin investment and business confidence, such as direct investment in the transport, energy, housing and digital schemes that can have a major impact on communities, supply chains, jobs and productivity. Commenting on the findings, Dr Adam Marshall, Acting Director General of the British Chambers of Commerce, said, “Even before the EU referendum, both business confidence and economic growth were softening in many parts of the UK. Our latest survey results, captured just before the vote, suggest that many businesses have been operating in something of a holding pattern for some time. “It is categorically too early to say what impact the referendum decision has had on most firms across the UK, as we have as yet had only anecdotal evidence from those facing challenges, those holding steady, and those seizing new opportunities. The impact of the referendum will require many businesses to take decisions whose impacts will take time to show up on the bottom line.

13

Town Chamber News

Yeovil Chamber of Commerce  Board membership of Yeovil Vision, which now allows the Yeovil business community a say on how the Under President David Woan District Council economic regeneration budget is (pictured, right), Yeovil Chamber delivered. is the one-stop shop for all things  BA20 Forum, a regular informal gathering, bringing business in the Yeovil area. town centre retailers into the same room as Having undergone a renaissance Chamber and local government officials. Already over the last two years, winning enjoying the support of South Somerset District ‘Best Networking Group’ at the Council, BA20 Forum is creating dialogue and will 2015 Western Gazette Business Awards, Yeovil deliver long-term benefit to the town centre. Chamber is well positioned and now part of the local government decision-making process. Many Yeovil

Chamber members Critical to the success of Yeovil Chamber is a also enjoy fourteen-strong Executive Team, each of whom takes membership of the responsibility for a facet of Chamber activities. As well Somerset Chamber. as running a busy annual programme of diverse, high The benefit of dual quality, informative networking events, the outreach membership allows and influence continues to flourish. One regular Somerset to provide attendee of Yeovil Chamber’s Speed Networking a regional picture, breakfasts said, “I get more business leads from this linked to the national single event than all my other networking groups put remit of the BCC together.” (British Chambers of Commerce), whilst Yeovil Chamber 2016 has already delivered: has its finger on the daily local pulse. Somerset and Yeovil enjoy a good relationship, with a number of  Patronage from Yeovil College, in recognition of joint events taking place in the area, including the recent and work on Employer Ambassadors, encouraging local very successful Business to Business Dinner. business to help deliver a curriculum aligned to the local jobs market. www.yeovilchamber.org

Affiliate Town Chambers and Business Associations

Axbridge Chamber of Commerce Frome Chamber of Commerce Taunton Chamber of Commerce 01934 733078 01749 342255 01823 230898 www.axbridgechamber.co.uk www.fromechamber.com www.taunton-chamber.co.uk [email protected] [email protected] office@taunton -chamber.co.uk Bridgwater Chamber of Commerce Ilminster Chamber of Commerce Wells Chamber of Commerce 01278 228004 01460 240554 01749 685236 www.bridgwaterchamber.org.uk www.ilminsterchamber.org.uk www.wellschamberofcommerce.co.uk [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] Burnham-on-Sea Chamber of Commerce Levels’ Best Community Interest Company Wellington Business Association 01278 238959 01935 851280 01823 673245 www.burnham-on-sea/com/guide/chamber - www.levelsbest.co.uk www.wellingtonbusinessassociation.co.uk of-trade.shtml [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] Shepton Mallet & District Chamber Wincanton Businesses Together Crewkerne Area Business Chamber 01749 681413 01963 34327 07935 737001 www.shepton.biz www.wincantonbusiness.co.uk www.facebook.com/crewkernechamber [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] Somer Valley Chamber of Commerce Wiveliscombe & 10 Parish Business Group Exmoor Business Group 07530 042627 01984 684777 01643 851895 www.somervalleychamber.com www.10pbg.co.uk www.businessexmoor.co.uk [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] Yeovil Chamber of Commerce

01935 804999 To find out more about the benefits of affiliating to the Somerset Chamber, www.yeovilchamber.org call: 01823 444924 or email: [email protected] [email protected]

16 14 Member Focus: Fisher & Company

An introduction to Somerset Chamber member, Fisher & Company

Fisher & Company was first established in Erith, Kent in 1982 by Colin Fisher, primarily as a Tool Making company, supported by his wife Jean. A logistical move to Somerset in 1990 saw the company become a real family concern when son Neil joined the company. In 2000, the company increased its portfolio of street lighting furniture and traffic control products adding high quality Belisha beacons and electrically insulated Hinkley ‘C’ presentations. Since then I have attended a digging tools to their ranges of feeder pillars (external number of networking lunches, breakfast events and electrical cabinets) and bracketry, all manufactured in CEO suppers. These have been very beneficial to my their Somerton factory. company and I have employed the services of a couple of other members as a result. Rebecca Bevins HR now The new ranges were so successful that the range was handle all of our employment matters and we now expanded and following two years of investment, have three fully qualified First Aiders thanks to Jalee. research and development, the company now offer I’ve gained same very useful tips at the MD & CEO solar powered Belisha & Refuge beacons in addition round-table forums and acted upon these, which have to the mains powered range. Managing Director Neil proved extremely helpful in the running of my Fisher says, “We are extremely proud of our new solar business.” Belisha beacon and since its release date in February this year we have secured orders from Land Rover and Neil said he would highly recommend membership of Amazon and we’re talking to all the major Somerset Chamber to other businesses in the area. supermarkets. Everyone who has seen it is very “I would like to say that I feel being a member of the impressed with the product, and we’re looking forward Somerset Chamber of Commerce & Industry is very to the future.” good value for money for obtaining advice and networking with local companies with a similar ethos. Colin and Jean retired in 2014 and with Neil as Businesses are about people, not just balance sheets Managing Director, supported by his wife Hannah, the and profit & loss accounts!” firm continues to be a family concern today, with 10 staff manufacturing and supplying across the UK and www.fisherandcompany.co.uk abroad.

Neil says of the Chamber, “We originally became a This is a sponsored page by Somerset Chamber member to take part in the meetings surrounding the member, Fisher & Company.

15 Apprenticeships Day

Local school holds dedicated apprenticeship; to be honest I didn’t really apprenticeships day for students know what it was. Learning staff at Heathfield Community School in I think there are Taunton recently organised a day for Year 10 misconceptions about students to focus on apprenticeship pathways. Held them, because before today I thought that they were on 19th July at the Tacchi-Morris Arts Centre in only for engineering or manufacturing jobs.” Monkton Heathfield, a total of 250 14-15 year olds Fellow student, Holly Eccles, agreed. She said, “It’s attended the day, entitled Activate Apprenticeships – been really nice to hear about some different options Understanding the Alternatives. today, and it’s given me some ideas about what I want in the long-term, and the routes available to help me get there.” Heathfield drama teacher Stephanie Foster was one of the members of staff responsible for facilitating the day. She said, “The students often have to deal with a lot of external opinions, telling them what they should be doing with their futures. But it’s vital for them to decide for themselves who they are and where they want to go.” When asked why it was important to have input from local business representatives, Stephanie said, “When The aim of the event was to ‘understand the the students see input from different professions, I alternatives’ to and work, to promote think it makes them realise the importance of the character traits of resilience and entrepreneurial skills decisions they will be making in the coming months in the students, and to help them discover more about and years. There are endless options for these young pathways and setting goals. people – so many different paths to explore, and it sometimes just takes a bit of professional interaction A series of sessions were held to highlight the for them to realise that.” importance of understanding career options and personal skills. In the morning, the students listened Scarlett Scott-

to a talk by South West Apprenticeship Company, Collins from followed by a presentation by Activate, an organisation the Somerset that specialises in all levels of education, Chamber of apprenticeships and workforce training. The year Commerce, group were split into two, with one half heading who started outside to take part in interactive team building her career as challenges with Activate, while the other half set to an work on activities laid out by Somerset Chamber apprentice, member, Young Enterprise. attended the event as a Sanchia Jones, Manager of Young Enterprise, hosted volunteer. two back-to-back interactive sessions that were (L-R) Maisie Beaton (Thales), Other designed to promote further education, Scarlett Scott-Collins (Somerset Chamber), and volunteers on Emma Hughes (Holiday Inn Taunton) apprenticeships and work as equally weighted routes the day to take, post-16. She said, “The interactive activities included representatives from Chamber members we put on are designed to make the students Thales, Holiday Inn Taunton and One Step understand their own personalities, and how their Recruitment. traits would match up with certain job types. It’s up to them as young adults to take a degree of ownership The day was concluded with a mini-fayre at The SPACE and to understand the skills they may have or want performing arts complex, which parents were invited to to develop on so that they may achieve their goals.” attend with their children. College providers and other businesses set up exhibition stands with a main focus Megan Palmer, a student at Heathfield Community on apprenticeships. School, commented, “I’d never considered an

16 Yeovil College University Centre

Free places on offer at Yeovil College There is a similar pattern in neighbouring rural University Centre with new ‘zero fees’ counties, and Yeovil College and SSDC are keen to find a radical and compelling solution to encourage initiative students to reconsider, or for those in more urban parts of the UK who might not be considering Yeovil College and university for financial reasons, a chance to settle in South Somerset District this beautiful county and get their education here. Council are launching an exciting initiative to There will be in the region of 120 places available and offer free Higher Yeovil College will be promoting the zero fees initiative Education places to at UCAS events from the new term, with a view to the young people to first students starting in September 2018. Yeovil improve their prospects and earning potential. College is exploring the options for halls of residence

With net migration in Somerset showing that more young people are leaving the county than moving in, the ‘brain drain’ continues with bright students and qualified young professionals leaving the region. Many people choose to move to Somerset from the rest of the UK, but with the net flow of 16-24 year olds out of the county, the implications for the future for economic development in Somerset start to look bleak. It is these people, leaving for ‘traditional’ university cities like Bristol, Cardiff and Bournemouth, that could generate income for the county in the future. Overall figures mask the problem among the crucial 16-24 age group. as part of their strategic plan, specifically looking at Bristol, Bath, Bournemouth and Plymouth have an those coming from further afield who might be inflow of this young age group, driven primarily by the relocating. Opportunities will be available in business access to university provision, with many not realising and management at degree level, at HNC/D level and they could study a degree or Higher Education in Yeovil, even as Higher Apprenticeships for those who prefer or not understanding that by taking a Higher that route to university. Apprenticeship they could reach the same degree outcome but earn a wage while they learn. By studying Local business partners supporting the project for free on one of these places, students could save include Yeovil District Hospital, Leonardo Helicopters themselves nearly £30,000 in tuition fees alone. and BAE Systems, among others.

It is hoped that those taking up the offer of a free place will make a life for themselves in Somerset and start to reverse the migration figures for the crucial 16-24 age group.

For more information, please visit:

www.southsomerset.gov.uk www.ucy.ac.uk www.yeovil.ac.uk

Images courtesy of Yeovil College

17 Somerset Business Awards

Celebrity host announced for Somerset Business Awards

National television personality, Alex Lovell, has been announced as the celebrity host of this year’s Somerset Business Awards.

With many years’ experience across a wide variety of television programmes, from BBC Points West to The Bill, Alex brings knowledge, charisma and kudos to the Somerset Business Awards for 2016.

As a familiar face across the nation’s TV screens, Alex will host this year’s Awards evening with an anticipated audience of 400 VIP guests, announcing the winners of the 14 Award categories.

Commenting on her involvement, Alex said, “I’m really delighted to have been asked to host the Somerset Business Awards. It’s really important to recognise best practice, innovation and ambition in new and established businesses. Who doesn’t love positive feedback and recognition? It’s a joy to be part of such a celebratory event.”

Jenn Chidley-Sanders, Awards organiser and Member Services Manager at the Somerset Chamber of Commerce, added, “Alex is a well-known presenter and the perfect host to ensure this year’s Somerset Business Awards are the best yet. The Awards evening is a time of celebration and success, and we are confident Alex will share our passion throughout the event. The Somerset Business Awards are open for entries until the 22nd August, so we look forward to another

record-breaking year.”

Now in its 12th year, the Somerset Business Awards attract a wide variety of entrants from all sectors within the Somerset business community. This year the Awards ceremony will be held on Friday 21st October at Wellsprings Leisure Centre in Taunton, which has the capacity for over 400 guests to celebrate the outstanding businesses in Somerset.

Entries close at midday on Monday 22nd August 2016. For entry details and to apply online, please visit www.somersetbusinessawards.org.uk.

Follow @SomBizAwards and #SBA2016 on Twitter for all the latest news and updates.

Join the Somerset Chamber of Commerce

Membership offers support and  A range of FREE services provided  FREE publicity opportunities for advice to help you increase your through the British Chambers of members in the Chamber’s Somerset profits and also helps the Chamber Commerce. Business Magazine and on the website www.somerset-chamber.co.uk. increase its influence.  Access to exclusive Chamber offers from

national and local Premier Providers. For more details please Membership includes:  Business Networking events with the Call: 01823 444924  Effective business lobbying and opportunity to network with up to 2,000 Email: membership@somerset- representation at local, regional and Chamber members from across chamber.co.uk national levels through accreditation to Somerset and the South West. Visit: www.somerset-chamber.co.uk the British Chambers of Commerce and membership of the South West  Informative seminars to share knowledge Chambers of Commerce. and best practice including Meet-the-Buyer events.

Contact the Chamber: Call 01823 444924 or visit www.somerset-chamber.co.uk

18 Upcoming Events

Annual Bank of England Update

Date: Thursday 1st September Time: 07.30 Venue: Cooper Associates County Ground, Taunton

Cost: Members £20.00 Non-members £40.00 NEW FOR 2016/17 Food Provided: Light breakfast BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT Join us for our Annual Update from the WORKSHOPS Bank of England. This year sees the launch of a series of business support and training workshops. This year Donna Kehoe, the Bank of England's Agent These six half-day seminars will take place for the South West, will discuss the current economic annually, and will look into the following key situation and summarise the Bank's views on the prospects for the British economy over the next two areas of business: to three years.

 Building your Business Plan Guests will also have the opportunity to network over breakfast, provided by our hosts and Chamber  Dealing with HR Patron, the Somerset County Cricket Club.  Enhancing your Marketing Plan

Previous events of this nature have seen over 60  Excel Training business people from across the county attend so please book early to avoid disappointment.  Getting to Grips with PR

 Understanding Accounts For event queries contact [email protected] or call 01823 444924 Cost per workshop: Members: £45.00 With thanks to event sponsor Non-members: £90.00

Places on each of these workshops are limited, so book early to avoid disappointment.

**Special Offer** 20% discount available with advance package booking on 2017 business development workshops

For more information or to make your booking, please email [email protected]

19 Somerset Chamber Events Calendar

For more information on our events, including sponsorship opportunities, please email [email protected] or call 01823 444924 (All costs inclusive of VAT except where detailed)

Annual Bank of England Update - Thursday 1st September Partner/Sponsor Join us for our Annual Update from the Bank of England. This year we will hear from Donna Kehoe, South West Agent, on the Bank’s forecasted views for the British economy. This informative event is very popular so early booking is advised.

Time: 07.30 Venue: Cooper Associates County Ground, Taunton Cost: Members £20.00 Non-members £40.00

Somerset Young Professionals Event: The Future of Business - Thursday 8th September Partner/Sponsor Partner/Sponsor Business professionals in your 20s and 30s - join us at our next SYP event, in association with Partner/Sponsor Cosmic. Guest speaker Kate Doodson will discuss how to remain competitive by staying ahead of the technological curve. There will also be plenty of networking with other young professionals.

Time: 18.30 Venue: TBC Cost: Members £20.00 Non-members £40.00

Raising the Bar #4: Cyber Security Essentials - Tuesday 13th September Partner/Sponsor Following a successful event in January with Thales on the subject of cyber security, Secure Arm will present the government IT security standard, Cyber Security Essentials. It will also provide practical advice from the police and examples of how today’s cyber threats occur and may affect you.

Time: 07.30 Venue: The Canalside, Bridgwater Cost: Members £20.00

Please note, this event is exclusively for Somerset Chamber members and limited spaces are available.

Cost Effective Marketing Workshop - Thursday 15th September Partner/Sponsor This half-day workshop, in association with Gill Ainge Marketing, will combine traditional marketing expertise with current methods, allowing you to make your marketing more effective without blowing your budget.

Time: 09.00 Venue: Somerset Chamber offices, Taunton Cost: Members £45.00 Non-members £90.00 Ladies Afternoon Tea & Networking - Tuesday 20th September Partner/Sponsor The Somerset Chamber ladies events are an ideal way to raise the profile of your business. Join us for tea, cake and plenty of networking at Hestercombe Gardens. Guest speaker Jackie Eades of Briers Ltd will discuss how Briers became a market leading company, and attendees will also be given a free pass around the beautiful gardens following this event.

Time 14.00 Venue: Hestercombe Gardens, Taunton Cost: Members £20.00 Non-members £40.00

Entries close for the Somerset Business Awards 2016 at midday on Monday 22nd August

To keep up to date with all of our events, please visit www.somerset-chamber.co.uk/events/somerset-chamber

Call 01823 444924 Email [email protected]