ISSUE 2 MARCH 2014

Hart businesses celebrate at the Inspire Business Awards

Have your say! Meet our local businesses What’s happening Major Hart business in your town? survey launched GROW GROW GROW do you have exporting How Hart for BUSINESS potential? can help! Grants and loan news Win an award in 2014 HART FOR BUSINESS BREAKING NEWS BREAKING NEWS BREAKING NEWS BREAKING NEWS BREAKING NEWS Southern Entrepreneurs Hart for Business Content celebrates success… North Launch Welcome 2 Speed Networking Event 3 elcome to the second issue of the Hart for Business magazine. & Speed Networking Event Calling all Businesses 3 Success! Since the launch of Hart for Business in July 2013, Hart for Business Update 4 we have been delighted with the welcome from local W Join us for free at the Lismoyne Hotel in Fleet Speed networking can increase your business Meet our Local Businesses 8 companies for the new business support service. Our on Tuesday 29 April 2014 from 6 - 8pm for contacts, raise your profile among like-minded Economic Development Officer has been busy working with local companies Late Payment Guide 9 the launch of our new free business support business people – and its great fun too! and leading business support organisations to ensure that Hart for Business service and speed networking event. provides a professional service to all businesses in the district. Exporting 10 Hart is working in partnership with From April 14, Council will be Borough Council and and Deane And we’re celebrating! In the Autumn the council was delighted to win Finance Loans and Grants 12 offering a free new service to support small Borough Council to expand the Southern the Federation of Small Business award for ‘Best All Round Small Business Business Opportunities 14 businesses throughout the district by joining Entrepreneurs service throughout the north of Friendliness’ in Hampshire and the Isle of Wight. and Support Southern Entrepreneurs. the county. Businesses can become members for free and access a range of services. Over the past six months, we have sponsored the high profile Inspire Business Twitter 17 We will be launching this new service at a Awards and the new North Hampshire Meet the Buyer event, enabling speed networking event where you’ll also With over 100 businesses from throughout Feel the Google Love 18 be able to find out more about our future the three districts expected at the launch, this our local businesses to get face-to-face with major local suppliers. We were free networking, subsidised training, online promises to be a fantastic event! delighted to celebrate four Hart based wins at the Inspire Business Awards, Win an Award 2014 18 forum and business directory with Southern This event is being generously sponsored by including Business of the Year. Congratulations to everyone who took part! Entrepreneurs. How Much Does Your 19 the Lismoyne Hotel www.lismoynehotel.com There have been huge successes in the village of Odiham, with the creation Lighting Cost? of a village retail team and the launch of a pop-up shop. After a year of hard Don’t miss out - book your place at General Business News 20 www.southernentrepreneurs.com. work, Fleet Future has produced a new town plan and is currently putting 23 it into action. It’s great to see that Fleet is continuing to attract independent Local Business News retailers, with three new exciting shops opening recently. Hart for Business Local Town and Village News 25 is delighted to be supporting both initiatives with practical skills, advice and Spotlight on Source Supplies 26 financial support. Business Events 27 We also took part in the national Small Business Saturday on 7 December, which encouraged people to shop locally by providing free parking across Hart. We hope you used the day to discover somewhere new and support your fellow businesses. Calling all businesses To the future… In this edition, Hart for Business is launching a new online business survey. - major Hart business We are inviting 2500 local businesses to give us their views about the Hart District Council challenges they face in the current economic climate. Civic Offices Finally, we are pleased to announce that we are joining Southern Harlington Way survey launched Fleet Entrepreneurs, an organisation offering training, events and support to small Hampshire GU51 4AE businesses throughout Hampshire. This means that Hart based businesses can Hart District Council has launched a major the council’s plans to support the growth of that we can better understand the state of join the network for free to access this support. Tel: 01252 622122 local Business Survey and is asking businesses the local economy and funding. business in the District and the needs of the within the district to tell us about the business community. It is crucial that we listen Fax: 01252 626886 Geoff Bonner, Chief Executive of the Council challenges they face in the current economic to what employers are saying and ensure that As always we are working for your business so do get in email: [email protected] said: “Helping businesses thrive within our climate. everything is being done to support businesses contact with our Economic Development Officer. district is a key priority, and a strong response locally as well as understanding the impact of The Council aims to receive detailed feedback in this important survey will help us to do Editor: national issues on the ground”. Councillor Ken Crookes, Jennifer Atherton from hundreds of businesses and individuals so. Our business community plays a hugely Leader of Hart District Council Economic Development Officer in a bid to build a comprehensive picture of important role in keeping Hart somewhere Access the survey at [email protected] their needs in the current economic climate. we like to live and work and we should be www.hart.gov.uk/businesses. The survey is The Council wants to understand the current doing all we can to support business and to now open. For more information on the Designed by: issues in a bid to remove hurdles to economic help them thrive”. survey or for a hard copy, please contact the Thrive Studios success. council’s Economic Development Officer, Jenny Leader of Hart District Council, Cllr Crookes www.thrivestudios.co.uk Atherton via email The survey addresses pivotal issues such said “The District Council has committed to 01252 819354 [email protected]. access to finance and business support, skills, engaging with business over the past year infrastructure and planning and broadband with the launch of Hart for Business. One of provision. The survey results will help shape our priorities is to engage with businesses so

2 3 HART FOR BUSINESS UPDATE HART FOR BUSINESS

Hart for Business Access free business support, events Update & training – Southern Entrepreneurs From April 14, Hart District Council will be Southern Entrepreneurs offers eligible member businesses to be contacted by In July 2013, over 100 local businesses joined First Partnership EBP, Inspire Business supporting a new support service to small businesses highly subsidised practical training in potential customers. us at an event to launch Hart for Business, the Awards, Green Deal, Sustainable Business Hart District businesses through the district by joining subjects based on their needs, along with free You can sign up immediately and start new economic development initiative at Hart Network, Leader Programme and Dementia Southern Entrepreneurs, which provides monthly networking opportunities, enabling accessing services from April. To sign up for District Council. Our Economic Development Friendly High Streets. We work closely with practical support to businesses throughout them to meet other members and the wider Council on membership and for more information, please Officer has been busy over the last twelve the Enterprise M3 LEP, Hampshire County Hampshire. Hart is working in partnership business community. Members are able to visit www.southernentrepreneurs.com or months and Hart for Business has some Council’s Economy Team, Fleet Future, with Rushmoor Borough Council and access a Business Support Manager, along with email anne.dawson@.gov.uk exciting projects in the pipeline. InOdiham, local training providers, the Facebook & Twitter Basingstoke and Deane Borough Council to other forms of help, with just one phone call. Employment Service and Enterprise First. expand the Southern Entrepreneurs service As part of the Council’s wider remit, the To keep up-to-date with business news and Cllr Crookes, Leader of Hart District Council throughout the North of the county. Business Economic Development Officer provides By keeping in close contact with these events, join our Facebook pages said “we are delighted to be joining Southern can become members for free and access a advice, support and signposting to businesses organisations we can be sure that we are www.facebook.com/hartforbusiness and Entrepreneurs to ensure that this excellent range of services. located in Hart and also organises specific keeping our fingers on the pulse, and providing www.facebook.com/HartDistrictCouncil business support service stretches into north What training would business and networking events. a vital role which builds on and develops or follow us on Twitter @HartCouncil. You Set up to support and nurture small Hampshire. We will be running monthly linkages leading to the economic success of all can contact Jennifer Atherton, Economic you like? The Economic Development Officer sits on businesses in South Hampshire, Southern events and training across the three districts our companies. Development Officer for advice and support Entrepreneurs has been growing since it to ensure that businesses have the chance to a number of steering groups including the via [email protected] Southern Entrepreneurs will be running North Hampshire Chamber of Commerce, launched in 2004 and this new partnership will connect with a range of new businesses and allow all businesses based in North Hampshire opportunities and to access invaluable training regular training sessions throughout to access the scheme free of charge. Southern at very low cost.” Hart, Basingstoke and Rushmoor, based Entrepreneurs Business Support Manager entirely on your needs. We are also The Southern Entrepreneurs website enables Anne Dawson said “It is great to be able to keen to use local business speakers members to advertise their own events and Hart District Council Rewarded Environmental welcome new businesses. All three councils at our new networking events – a training, and members can contribute to a have been keen to ensure that access to this fantastic way to expand you contacts monthly newsletter to showcase their business excellent support system comes at no cost to and customers. Please let us know what for Small Business Support Health Team to fellow members and with a readership of its local businesses. With monthly events and training you need and let us know if 5000. The website contains useful information subsidised training running across the South of you would like to speak at a future Hart District Council is delighted to be on other initiatives and invaluable articles - Free support for the county, we’re delighted that a new range of event! recognised for its’ new economic development written with small businesses in mind. A activities can be developed in the North and [email protected]. service ‘Hart for Business’, by winning the ‘Best business directory can be accessed through business that new members can access existing events All Round Small Business Friendliness’ award the website and is a valuable resource allowing in the South”. for Hampshire and the Isle of Wight from the Did you know that our friendly environmental Federation of Small Business. health team can support businesses with food safety, gas and electrical safety, asbestos advice, Tim Colman, Chair of the FSB for the area workplace wellbeing and general health and said “we were so impressed with the increase safety? For more information and support Support Fairtrade status for the district Hart for Business - and commitment to economic development please contact the team on 01252 622122 or activities in Hart this year, with the recruitment As the world’s most recognised ethical label, email [email protected] website resources of a dedicated officer to support local Fairtrade is good for business. As a licensee, businesses, the launch of the Hart for Business stockist, trader or even by having Fairtrade The Hart District Council magazine, a ‘meet the council’ event and coffee in your office, your business can make website has been investment in a new business database.” an impact to make global trade fairer. In 2012 extensively updated Do you have a sales of Fairtrade certified goods reached £1.3 to provide a wealth The Awards identified the best small business billion, a 12% increase on the previous year, of resources for friendly initiatives undertaken by the region’s proving people still want ethically produced local businesses. local authorities, and also highlighted the conference room goods. Being a Fairtrade business can help Information is split benefits for the region’s small businesses. or meeting space? you stand out from the competition, increase into two sections. customer loyalty and boost your public The Council Business We are always looking for suitable spaces relations. Services section provides information on business rates, economic to run small training sessions and meetings The Hart Fairtrade Group at Hart District development, fair trade, health and safety, around the district, as well as interesting local Council is working towards achieving Fairtrade licencing and permits, planning, procurement, companies who would be interested in show- Status for the District and we would like trade refuse and the new Workplace ing other businesses around their workplaces. businesses to get involved. We can support Wellbeing Charter. The business support From April, we will be running networking you with sourcing Fairtrade ingredients for section provides resources on apprenticeships, events and training sessions in partnership your supply chain, and if you are a stockist broadband, mentoring, start-up advice, with Southern Entrepreneurs and are keen or distributor, where to get hold of finished searching for commercial property, employing to hear from you if you’d like to get involved. packaged Fairtrade products. You may also people, exporting, innovation, skills and Email [email protected] for more wish to source Fairtrade products for your training, trade associations and local business information. workplace. Businesses are encouraged to join networking. the Fairtrade group and can find out more by www.hart.gov.uk/businesses. emailing [email protected]

4 5 HART FOR BUSINESS HART FOR BUSINESS

Is your business dementia friendly?

Hart District Council has been County Council has produced a free working with Dementia Friendly Dementia Friendly Toolkit for businesses which £2000 Vouchers Hampshire to ensure that Fleet contains information on becoming more is now a Dementia Friendly dementia friendly, a help-pack for customer- for Growth high street. Given the expected facing staff and a checklist for dementia 7 December 2013 saw the inaugural Small increase in the numbers of friendly environments. Access the toolkit here Business Saturday in the UK. The campaign Hart best place to live – again! The Growth Vouchers people with dementia over the next twenty www.hants.gov.uk/adult-services/adultservices- captured the imagination of small businesses programme was officially years, Hart District Council has an important professionals/dementia/dementia-friendly- and consumers across the country. In October In 2011, again in 2012 and then again in 2013, UK, with an average male life expectancy of launched on 27 January role in helping to develop dementia friendly toolkit.htm 2013, the Forum of Private Business wrote an annual study conducted by the Halifax bank 82.9 years compared to the national average 2014. It will help small communities that will support people in to every local authority in the UK asking named Hart as the UK’s most desirable place of 79 years. The 80% employment rate is businesses access expert their homes and neighbourhoods. Hampshire them to waive car parking charges on the 7th to live for quality of life. The study took into significantly higher than the national average advice to help them grow. December 2013 in support of Small Business account jobs, housing, health, crime, weather, (71%), while gross average weekly earnings of Vouchers worth up to £2,000 Saturday. Many councils, including Hart District traffic and broadband access. It found that 95% £843 are £226 (or 37%) higher than the UK will be given to a majority of the Council responded positively and over 40 of people in the local authority area were in average of £616. New ONS figures indicate businesses who sign up for the Free bite-size health and safety training confirmed they would have a free parking good health, and tended to have incomes 40% the adult population is among the most happy, programme to help them pay for offer in place on Small Business Saturday. above the national average. satisfied and content in the UK. The cost of strategic private sector advice in the for Hart businesses living in Hart, however, is high; the average following areas: The day boosted the UK economy by £468m, Hart has managed to retain its position at the house price in Hart is 7.0 times the average exceeding all expectations. Statistics from an top of the Quality of Life Survey by scoring Staff from the Golden Triangle in Fleet have Hart District Council is offering the training annual pre-tax local income – higher than the • Raising finance and managing cash flow American Express poll revealed 48% of UK consistently highly across almost all categories: received free health and safety training by to all businesses. If you own or know of a consumers were aware of the day. Of those UK average of 5.8. • Marketing, attracting and keeping officers from Hart District Council. The free business that could benefit from additional Hart residents are the healthiest in the UK, consumers aware of the campaign 45% said with 97.4% reporting being in good or fairly customers training has been offered by Hart District training please contact the Environmental they spent more than usual, and 19% reported good health. They also live the longest in the • Making the most of digital technology Council Environmental Health team as part Health team on [email protected] or they had spent at least double the amount of a district wide campaign to deliver bite- call 01252 774421. they would usually spend on a Saturday. • Improving leadership and management sized health and safety training to any local skills businesses within the District. As the first event of its kind in the UK these figures reveal a positive picture. Small Business Business centre feasibility study • Recruiting and developing your staff Cllr John Kennett, portfolio holder for licensing Saturday 2013 has set the bar for the coming and environmental health, said: “We are years. It is important we learn from the – get involved Businesses need to match the amount of delighted to offer free training for businesses campaign this year and build upon this success subsidy with their own funds. across Hart. It is our intention to support next year and in the future. Hart for Business has recently commissioned Private sector suppliers can also register businesses and by offering them training in a a feasibility study for converting a part of the to be listed on the Enterprise Nation number of areas such as, gas safety in kitchens, Hart District Council would like local Civic Offices into a professional business cen- online marketplace, through which manual handling and slips and trips; we hope businesses to start considering what they tre with flexible office and drop-in space, plus businesses can redeem their vouchers. that they will continue to stay up to date with could do next year to help grow Small business support and advice. The space would Small businesses will pay the supplier legal requirements. These sessions are tailored Business Saturday in the area and ensure that be for local start-ups and growing businesses and then claim back up to £2,000 from to the needs of individual businesses so we Small Business Saturday 2014 is even more and based in Fleet Town centre. If you would Staff from the Golden Triangle Fleet the government. Potential suppliers can deliver the relevant information that the successful than last years event. like to tell us what you need, express an inter- to voucher holders can sign up via business requires.” est in renting some space or get involved in Enterprise Nation at the research, please contact Jennifer Atherton, https://marketplace.enterprisenation.com Economic Development Officer, [email protected] Local business support provider Parking in Hart Free business intelligence resources Enterprise First is working in partnership with the Department of Business Have you ever found yourself Innovation and Skills (BIS) and Enterprise Did you know that you can access economic information and intelligence covering the short of change in a district car Nation to deliver this new support profiles and business intelligence from several economy, labour markets and socio-economics park? Did you know that there programme for small businesses in the P sources for free? On the NOMIS website, statistics. are a couple of solutions? The Business Expo South East. you can view labour market profile of local Visit www.hants.gov.uk/planning/factsandfigures Hart District Council Smart Showcase your Visit www.gov.uk/apply-growth-vouchers authorities, including Hart. The information and click on ‘Economic Statistics’. Parking Card is a rechargeable card that can to find out more and to apply for a includes data on population, employment, in Autumn 2014 be used in any council car park and where on- Growth Voucher. unemployment, qualifications, earnings, benefit business through street charges apply. It can be loaded with any Hart District Council is delighted to be claimants and businesses. Nomis is a service amount from £5 to £500. So what’s stopping working in partnership with Rushmoor and provided by the Office for National Statistics, Hart for Business you? If you would like to sign up, download an Basingstoke and Deane to deliver a high ONS, to give you free access to the most application form from the Council’s website. If you have an interesting story to tell, profile business expo this Autumn. There will detailed and up-to-date UK labour market Did you know that you can also pay for we’d like to publish it in a future Hart for several ways for local businesses to exhibit and statistics from official sources. parking by telephone? More information can Business issue! You can share a success get involved, including subsidised stand space www.nomisweb.co.uk. be found on the parking information pages at story, celebrate team members or write for local sole traders. More details will follow - www.hart.gov.uk/parking an article that shares your expertise with please send an email to register your interest Hart for Business works closely with the other businesses. We are always looking to [email protected] Economy Team’s research and intelligence for speakers for events too. Email jennifer. group at , who [email protected] to get involved. provide a range of updated local economic

6 7 HART FOR BUSINESS

Planning Permission Advice Planning Permission If you are planning to expand your business owners and developers. They also deal with - a guide for business premises, build new premises, or change the planning issues arising from the consideration use of an existing premises you may need to of planning applications, associated legislation The government has produced a guide apply for planning permission. applications and determine building regulation to the planning system for businesses in applications. Businesses seeking to develop their premises England. It provides guidance on when Business Support need to apply to the council for planning We are keen to work with businesses planning permission is required, how to make permission, which may be required when throughout the planning process. We a planning application, and what happens building new premises, changing the use encourage businesses to discuss their afterwards. However, it is not an authoritative of existing premises, or extending existing proposals in advance of a planning application. interpretation of the law. buildings. Decisions are made in line with Businesses can also check informally with around the Council www.gov.uk/government/publications/planning- district planning policies and government planning services whether a proposed guidance. development needs planning permission. permission-a-guide-for-business If after reading this booklet you are still unclear Looking for a new Environmental Health Business Support Hart’s planning and development team Contact the Planning Team on 01252 774419 how to proceed, contact Hart District Council. considers planning proposals from property or email [email protected] workplace? Hart’s Environmental Health Team’s aim is to to prioritise the advice so that you can act accordingly. From the high quality high tech office save you time and provide you with relevant developments at Hook and Blackwater, information and guidance at the start, and by The officer will also provide you with other to the large industrial estates at Bartley putting you in touch with the right people potential information sources which we Point and Fleet’s Osborne Way, as well as from the very beginning. The officers are believe may be relevant to you and your Late Payment Guide smaller rural developments around Church available to visit your business or proposed business including information from Trading Crookham, Hartley Wintney and Odiham, premises and will provide a written copy of Standards, the Food Standards Agency and the Our guide to how small businesses Get your invoices right – A disputed invoice Cover yourself against bad debts –Trade credit the opportunities in Hart are as varied as the any advice, so that you can incorporate it into Fire Authority. will not be paid so do not give the customer insurance covers against the risk of non- businesses already located here. Our website a work plan and if necessary they will help can manage late payment any excuse to contest their invoice. This payment due to your customers’ insolvency so details the range of different workspace requires being on the ball in terms of accuracy can be invaluable in protecting your business. options available in Hart at nearly 30 locations Being tough on late payment will work Talk to the team about reducing potential such as clearly specifying the goods or services at www.hart.gov.uk/businesses wonders for cash flow. Late payment is the Chasing payment – If contacting the debtor Food Hygiene & Safety cost by minimising the need for consultants, being paid for and being sure to quote the most common cause of cash flow crises. If to try and resolve the issue has not worked buying unnecessary equipment or having to customer order number. Health & Safety one big company falls behind on paying its then there are various ways you can retrieve make changes to your premises layout after suppliers, the devastating effect can ripple Manage your debtors – Once an invoice has payment. Firstly, consider exercising your legal you’ve opened. Licensing down the supply chain and put companies out been issued, make sure to keep an eye on rights under late payment legislation to charge Call the Environmental Health Team now. Free workshops of business. Here are some pointers to dealing your debtors. For large or important amounts, penalty interest or add debt recovery costs. If for SME’s about Government support Odour with the issue and saving your cash flow. telephone before the due date to make sure that doesn’t prompt the debtor to pay, then 01252 774421 for R&D and Innovation the payment is still on track. If a payment you can hire a specialist debt collector to help [email protected] Get to know your customer – Knowing your Pest Control hasn’t arrived, don’t be afraid to ask for it and you. They have the expertise and time to focus 4 June 2014 - 8-11.30am www.hart.gov.uk customer is critical when it comes to credit Langstone Technology Park, management. Check the exact name and outline to them the consequences of non- on retrieving the debt. If all else fails, then you legal status of each of your customers and payment. Some basic financial management can always consider taking court action but BIS and HMRC are running free innovation credit check new customers where you can. software can go a long way towards helping this should be seen as the last resort as it can workshops to ensure small and medium sized However, do not simply rely on credit ratings, you manage your debtors as you can not cost you time and money. high-tech companies have all the information ask for references from other suppliers and only use it as a central resource to create and they need regarding investments in R&D and Demystifying Business Rates make your own assessments on the customer’s send invoices from but also list and track the innovation in order to grow their business Most businesses pay business rates – it is There are a number of Rate Reliefs that you propensity to pay. invoices that are overdue and monitor your and remain competitive. The workshops cover how they contribute towards the cost of and your business could be entitled to, which performance in getting paid. support provided by HMRC, the Technology Set out payment terms – Once you decide local authority services such as the police and can be found on our website www.hart.gov. Strategy Board, EU programmes, Intellectual to take on a new customer, define your credit fire fighters. If you use a building or part of a uk/business. To speak to Hart about your rates, Property Office (formerly the Patent Office) policy. Agree payment terms at the order stage building for business, you will probably have to contact the Revenues Team via and the Design Council. and make them very clear. Do not assume that pay business rates. www.hart.gov.uk/businesses tel: 01252 774444. you will be paid on 30 days or end of month The workshop will cover HMRC (R&D tax Don’t forget you can always pay your rates Businesses are given a ‘Rateable Value’ which, following, instead set out payment terms in credits, Patent Box), the Technology Strategy online. You can also find useful information on in conjunction with a multiplier, produces the writing and try to obtain written acceptance, Board (TSB) grants, knowledge transfer, the government’s website business rates liability. Rates are set by the ensuring your customer’s order does not networking, procurement opportunities and www.gov.uk/introduction-to-business-rates/overview government for each county in the UK. Hart suggest different payment terms. more); EU funding for business research and District Council collects the rates and returns If you are unhappy with your business rates, development and innovation; Intellectual Encouraging timely payment – Printing the the income to the national government, who you can make an appeal to the Valuation Property Office patents, how to optimise the payment terms on easy-to-understand invoices then return a small percentage back to each Office. If you decide to make an appeal, you value of your intellectual property): and Design that go out on time can also help prompt local council. In England, rateable values are must continue to pay your business rates Council help to strengthen the potential of debtors to pay, as will clearly setting out the assessed by the Valuation Office Agency while your appeal is outstanding. The VOA your innovation, identify opportunities to penalties if a payment is late. Another way of (VOA). Exactly how much your business pays will compare your rateable value with similar commercialise your technology and then encouraging your customers to pay quickly depends on the location of property, the size properties in the area and consider any other realise those opportunities through design and on time is by offering discounts for of property, the nature of your business and reasons you have given. Contact the VOA on projects. www.business-events.org.uk prompt payment. how the property is to be used. 03000 501 501.

8 9 HART FOR BUSINESS

Have you considered exporting Workplace your goods and service online? Although your business may have an established A survey by Freelancer.co.uk of 2,200 small Wellbeing Charter UK market, there’s often no reason why it businesses in the UK reveals there has been a couldn’t successfully compete overseas too, 42% increase in the number of small businesses If you haven’t yet signed up to the growing your revenue and profit. SMEs may selling their products online. Significantly, there Hampshire Workplace Wellbeing Charter, think that exporting requires physically setting has been a 36% rise in the number of small what’s stopping you? Employers across Hart up overseas, but the e-commerce opportunities businesses selling their products overseas via are being encouraged to improve the health are vast. An increasing number of small their ecommerce sites. of their staff by applying. businesses are turning to the internet and their The survey found the major costs for start e-commerce websites to sell their products In the South East, 4 million working ups and small businesses trading mostly online Exporting overseas, bypassing traditional and expensive days are lost to workplace ill-health and were for website and e-commerce design routes to export. injury every year. Organisations signing and localization services for exporting their up to the Charter are encouraged to Before you start, you need to have sound products overseas. 42% said that their main consider issues such as the working knowledge of your would-be markets. You also investment was in an e-commerce site, while environment, work-life balance, healthy GROW, GROW, GROW - Do you have export potential? need to consider whether your products are 36% said they invested in localisation services to living and good communication, which are right for each target market and whether you help them export overseas. proven to improve workforce wellbeing The concept of expanding internationally is Sales Leads Events and Trade Fairs & the have the necessary resources to start exporting. and productivity. Hart District Council’s one that is often deemed to be out of reach Over 400 Business Opportunities are Tradeshow Access Programme Environmental Health team is offering free for small businesses. However, it is often the published across all sectors and in over 100 Taking part in overseas exhibitions is an support, advisory visits and mentoring as case that trading abroad is the best course markets each month and range from market effective way for you to test markets, attract Do you want to improve the skills of part of an initiative to improve employee of action for a modest-sized company. There pointers, to private sector opportunities, customers, appoint agents or distributors health and wellbeing. Employers who can might be a greater potential market in multilateral aid agency tenders to public and make sales. UKTI’s Tradeshow Access demonstrate a commitment to workplace another country, not to mention such perks sector leads. When you register with the UKTI Programme (TAP) provides grant support your workforce? health and wellbeing are also encouraged as favourable exchange rates and no language website they can put you in contact with the for eligible SME firms to attend trade shows to apply for Charter status as part of the barriers. companies who’ve posted these opportunities. overseas. Skills Support for the Workforce is a new scheme. But how can small businesses crack UKTI Export Communications Webinars fully subsidised programme now available to international markets? business in Hart through Enterprise M3. The Charter recently won a grant to Review UKTI Webinars aim to deliver high quality appoint a workplace advisor who will UK Trade & Investment (UKTI) exists to The review provides companies with impartial advice and support at no cost to you Do you want to improve the skills of your help employers make workplaces a help your business grow internationally. They and objective advice on language and wherever you happen to be – in the office, at workforce and thereby make both your supportive and productive environment provide expert trade advice and practical cultural issues to help them improve their home or on the move. Information is provided employees, and your business, more productive training can be delivered in the work place to where employees can feel valued and support to UK-based companies wishing to competitiveness in existing and future export on specific markets and countries covering and effective? If so, there is a new programme minimise time off the job. flourish. The Charter has been launched grow their business overseas. The Government markets. topics such as entry to market, legality, in your area offering fully subsidised skills by Eastleigh, Basingstoke, Hart, Rushmoor has recently provided £13 million in new opportunities, current climate, socio-economic training to help upskill your workforce. Is my business eligible? and Councils to help support funding to help UK Trade and Investment Passport to export trends, risks and benefits, competitors and businesses to improve employee health and Skills Support for the Workforce is aimed at You must be a small and medium sized (UKTI) to achieve its aim of doubling UK An assessment and skills-based programme related statistics. wellbeing, which in turn is proven to boost supporting lesser-skilled individuals so as to businesses, employing up to 250 employees exports to £1 trillion by 2020. Approximately that provides new and inexperienced productivity, reduce sickness absence and For more information about exporting and all improve their career opportunities and their and be based within the Enterprise M3 area. £9 million of the total investment is likely to be exporters with the training, planning and support economic growth. of the services that UKTI offer to businesses, channelled into boosting trade opportunities ongoing support they need to succeed existing skills and knowledge through work- visit www.ukti.gov.uk based learning. It is funded by the European Anyone aged 19+ years or over, individuals for small and medium sized businesses – which overseas. The Hampshire Workplace Wellbeing Social Fund (ESF) and co-financed by the Skills who have no formal qualifications or who have is great news for Hart. Charter website, Gateway to Global Growth Funding Agency (SFA) so training is free to achieved GSCEs at grades D-G, individuals www.workplacewellbeinghampshire.org SO HOW CAN UKTI HELP YOUR A service for experienced exporters which both you and your employees currently employed by a SME based within provides businesses with the resources and offers a 12 month programme of strategic the Enterprise M3 area, working an average BUSINESS? information to support employee wellbeing, support tailored to your needs to help grow What can the scheme offer you? of 8 hours or more per week are eligible for International Trade Advisers introduce health improvement programmes your company’s business overseas. Skills Support for the Workforce offers a range support. An adviser will provide professional advice on at work and information on how to apply of unitised programmes tailored to meet the For more information a range of UKTI services, including financial Export Marketing Research Scheme needs of you, the employer, to overcome skills for Charter status. Businesses within the subsidies, export documentation, contacts in To find out more about the Skills Support for District of Hart can register their interest (EMRS) gaps and shortages within your workforce. overseas markets, overseas visits, e-commerce, Your training provider will work with you the Workforce programme visit or get more information from either visiting The EMRS provides independent advice, at no export training and market research. to analyse your business needs and identify www.chichester.ac.uk/employers the website or contacting Environmental charge, on carrying out marketing research; training programmes/qualifications specifically Alternatively contact Marian Sexton Health on 01252 774421. Overseas Market Introduction whether you’re looking at new markets or for any identified individual employee, to at Chichester College on re-evaluating an existing one. In addition Service (OMIS) improve their skills and competency, and the 01243 786321 (ext 2625) A flexible business tool, letting you use the companies may be eligible for a grant of up or at [email protected] services of trade teams, located in embassies, to 50% of the cost of conducting market high commissions and consulates across the research. world. OMIS can provide help at any stage - from initial research, to arranging a market visit, to using our contacts and impressive facilities to help close a major deal.

10 11 HART FOR BUSINESS

£1500 Apprenticeship Grant for Fredericks Finance, Loans Employers Foundation Loans Small and medium-sized employers looking The Fredericks Foundation will consider to offer apprenticeships in England have been clients for a loan and business support if and Grants given a boost, as the National Apprenticeship they can demonstrate that they have made a Service has announced an extension to its genuine application for funds to their bank or employment scheme. The Government has a mainstream lender and have been turned confirmed an extension of the Apprenticeship Eligible employers can claim the grant for up down. The business can be at any stage Grant for Employers of 16-24 year olds (AGE to ten apprentices. including start-up, needing capital to expand, Smarta Start-up £3,000 £1,000 Sustainable 16-24) to March 2014. The £1,500 grant is www.apprenticeships.org.uk/employers/steps- or funds to bridge a gap. The client could be a available to help businesses with fewer than to-make-it-happen/incentive sole trader, in a partnership or have a limited 1,000 employees take on an apprentice. company. The maximum loan for start-up Loans Manufacturing Routes Grants businesses is £10,000, though the average loan Smarta Start-up Loans are aimed at new start- Sustainable Routes offer a 50% grant (ERDF) is less than £5,000. For established businesses up companies or those in their first 12 months Advisory Service of up to £1,000 to established small and with a financial track record the maximum of trading. The programme provides start-ups medium-sized businesses who are looking Innovations and Partnerships loan is £20,000. Loans are not available to with loans based on their business needs, as Grants to cut travel costs by adopting new ways of support training. well as ongoing working. Businesses have to have been trading Film Fund Grants www.fredericksfoundation.org/south-east support through The Manufacturing Advisory Service (MAS) more than 12 months and have turnover Creative England, the national agency that £50,000 per project are available. Applications Smarta’s Scheme has funding available for suitable higher than £40,000. Franchises are not supports the film, TV, games and digital media can be made at any time. mentoring projects. Grants of up to 50% of the project included. Businesses who register can receive a industries, is looking for companies who have www.creativeengland.co.uk/index.php/ Enter the system and access to products and services cost to a maximum of £3,000 are available to personalised travel efficiency plan and a match new and innovative ideas for ways to help portfolio/film/#innovations provided by their corporate partners, including support manufacturers improve their business. funded grant of up to £1,000. Examples of the film sector to grow and develop outside PayPal and eBay. Loans of up to £9,950 can MAS funding can support the development of funded projects include laptops for employees Dragon’s Den . The fund offers companies the be given, and the average loan size is £5,400. ISO 9001 quality management systems, ISO to work remotely; server upgrade to support opportunity to work with Creative England on If you’ve got a great business idea to put to Anybody living in England over the age of 18 14001 environmental management systems remote working; bicycles, storage and showers original projects related to the film industry. the Den’s venture capitalists, applications are at the time of application can apply for a start- and procurement activities including supplier to encourage use; LPG conversions. Register These could support a wide range of areas now open. The TV show sees entrepreneurs up loan. Applications can be made at any time. development and sourcing. online at www.sustainableroutes.co.uk. from development, production and distribution and inventors from around the country https://startuploans.smarta.com www.mymas.org/resources/grants-funding to business growth, innovation, and inward pitch investment ready ideas to some of the investment. Grants of between £10,000 and UK’s top business leaders. Whether you are operating a successful business and want 18 – 30 years old? Grant for Innovation to take it to the next level, a small start-up operation with big dreams, or if you have a The UK’s Technology Strategy Board provide Carbon Trust Entrepreneur lucrative business idea but are looking for the Start your own business with a loan! funding for a range of research, development ideal partner to take you in the right direction, Unemployed? Facing redundancy? Leaving and demonstration projects ranging from small Fast Track Grants then it’s time to enter the Den. education? Fancy a new job? Start up loans are proof-of-concept grants and feasibility studies http://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/b006vq92/ available – anything from £500 to £5,000 at through to large multi-partner collaborative The Carbon Trust provides specialist support package of support to companies and features/dd-apply a fantastic rate of just 6%, with the option to R&D and demonstration projects. The to business and the public sector to help cut organisations that may include research and defer repayments by up to one year. Plus you businesses they support range from pre start- carbon emissions. The Fast Track Programme, development grants up to £500,000, expert will benefit from a quality ‘business mentor’ up, start-up and early stage micro businesses, which brings together the Carbon Trusts commercialisation advice (up to a value of £2275 Youth who will work with you offering help and to large multi-nationals. For micro and small Applied Research Programme and its Business £70,000), investor and business network support. You can use your loan for anything been trading for up to one year. The start up and medium sized companies the main funding Incubation schemes aims to support the most opportunities. Applications to the programme Unemployment connected to running a business and have loans scheme is a government funded initiative, route is via the TSB Smart grants. Smart commercially viable and innovative carbon can be made at any time. up to 5 years to pay the loan back. Loans designed to provide financial and expert (previously known as Grant for Research and saving technologies. Under this programme, www.carbontrust.co.uk/emerging-technologies are available to 18 – 30 year olds only who support to young entrepreneurs in the UK. Development) offers funding to enable SMEs the Carbon Trust will offer a customised Wage Incentive are considering setting up a business or have www.wsxentreprise.co.uk/start-up-loans to engage in R&D projects. Any UK SME working in any sector can apply. Applications Until April 2015 employers are able to take are accepted on a rolling basis. The full range advantage of 160,000 wage incentives. These of funding provided by the TSB can be found: £25k Materials Science Venture are worth up to £2,275 each where they £500 Childcare Business Grants Scheme www.innovateuk.org/deliveringinnovation.ashx employ an eligible 18 to 24 year old through competition Jobcentre Plus or from the Work Programme. In addition, a wage incentive scheme is The new Childcare Business Grants Scheme available to employers who recruit a young The Materials Science Venture Prize is stage research. The competition is open to all has been introduced to boost the provision disabled person from Work Choice – a an annual competition provided by the UK-based materials scientists, whether they of childcare in England and to incentivise Sign up to our new regular Hart specialist disability employment programme Worshipful Company of Armourers and are linked to a major university department or entrepreneurship. The scheme has been that provides tailored support to help disabled for Business e-bulletin. Email Brasiers. The aim of the programme is to private business. Interested scientists are asked funded for one year with a fixed budget of people who have the most complex support [email protected] and stay up reward and celebrate the best in the field to submit an entry form and a business plan £2 million. Flat rate start-up grants are needs. Contact Jobcentre Plus for further of materials science. The contest will offer a outlining their idea. The competition deadline is available of £250-£500. If you want to start to date with all the local business information, advice on the eligibility conditions £25,000 first prize to help the winning entrant 15 March 2014. a childcare business visit news, advice and events. and support to identify the right person via commercialise and exploit innovative early- www.armourershall.co.uk/venture-prize www.childcarebusinessgrants.dcms.gov.uk. https://www.gov.uk/contact-jobcentre-plus

12 13 BUSINESS OPPORTUNITIES & SUPPORT

Business Free fire safety training Free NHS stop Hampshire Fire and Rescue Service run free you have one set of rules to comply with, workshops to help businesses comply with regarding fire safety. Many employers across smoking service current fire safety law. The workshops cover the county still do not fully understand their Opportunities the business’s legal and moral obligations in responsibilities where failure to comply can for your staff the workplace, how this legislation affects you, lead to hefty fines and/or a two year prison what you need to do, what to expect if a fire sentence. Smoking is the biggest cause of preventable safety inspector comes to visit you, common illness and death in the UK, responsible for Workshops are run at a wide range of venues shortfalls experienced during an inspection, over 100,000 deaths each year from smok- across the county and are regularly scheduled & Support any issues you may have relevant to your ing-related diseases. 50% of smokers die in Basingstoke, but may be able to be held in situation, protecting your business and staff to before they reach retirement age and surveys Hart depending on demand. Please visit ensure business continuity and access to Fire suggest that the cost to a business of em- www.hantsfire.gov.uk/businesscourses.htm for Calling inspiring business volunteers Free one-to-one Safety Officer advice during the workshop. ploying ONE smoker can be over £1500 per more information. year due to increased sick leave and smoking On 1 October 2006 a new piece of legislation breaks. The good news is that 3 out of 4 smok- for young people! business advice was introduced into the UK to help safeguard ers want to quit. However, many try to stop all workplace premises from fire. This fire Enterprise First has been providing free on their own and fail, often because they lack First Partnership EBP works in partnership contribute greatly to their future success. safety law is called the Regulatory Reform impartial advice, information and support to support and use over-the-counter medication with business, schools, colleges and the wider Many local businesses volunteer their (Fire Safety) Order 2005. It replaces numerous start-ups, new and existing businesses since ineffectively. community in North and . expertise during school based activities, other pieces of legislation and means now 1981. They offer a range of free support They broker relationships and facilitate which are inspiring, fun and practical. It’s not including free confidential advice sessions with Businesses now have the opportunity to offer learning programmes that help young people all one way though - businesses benefit from experienced business mentors for eligible their staff workplace based stop smoking sup- to develop their employment skills and supporting young people through employee businesses. An advisor is available to meet on port at no charge. These sessions are popular, understanding about the workplace – and they development, attracting young people from What is the Manufacturing Fridays in Fleet at the Hart District Council successful and run by trained NHS profes- need you! different backgrounds and being viewed more Offices. Enterprise First also run practical sionals with medication supplied. Quit4Life, favourably by clients through community your local NHS Stop Smoking Service will help The Education Business Partnership’s aim is to workshops in book-keeping, marketing and Advisory Service? engagement. And inspiring the next generation with administration and promotion to set up work with schools to deliver effective activities getting ready for business, which are a snip can be extremely rewarding! the sessions, hold around 8 one-hour sessions that give young people the tools they need at just £35 and held in Farnborough and The Manufacturing Advisory Service (MAS) run in the best way possible and if you’re on-site at times flexible to your needs and in today’s global economy. By working with Contact First Partnership about the different Aldershot. www.enterprisefirst.co.uk is funded by BIS (Government Department a small or medium sized manufacturer in provide effective medication as appropriate. businesses, they are able to offer activities that ways you and your business can get involved. for Business, Innovation and Skills) and they England, many of the services are free and For more information email [email protected] develop the students’ awareness of the world www.firstpartnershipebp.co.uk/employers.aspx provide manufacturing business support for supplemented by appropriate grant funding. companies based in England, helping them or call 0845 602 4663 or visit of work, develop the skills they’ll need and MAS has been a huge success since its to improve and grow. MAS is designed to www.quit4life.nhs.uk raise aspirations. launch in 2002. Working with thousands of help you, the manufacturer, streamline your companies it now plays a vital role in helping Businesses play an important part in the processes, reduce waste, become more energy manufacturers in England to share knowledge, development of our young people and efficient and generally improve and grow your improve productivity and achieve success in business. Ready for an increasing competitive global economy. If Regardless of the size of your business, you’re a manufacturing SME based in England, business programme Traineeship Business is GREAT Mentors needed experienced and highly skilled advisors can you’re able to sign-up for a free review of your help you. They will work with you and your business today by visiting www.mymas.org/ Ready for Business is a new enterprise start- opportunities at Basingstoke For the past 18 months, Business in You has for new entrepreneurs and workforce to ensure that your business is contact. Find out more at www.mymas.org up programme that aims to create 6,000 College of Technology been helping entrepreneurs to start and run growing businesses new businesses and up to 10,000 jobs across their businesses. Nearly 20,000 companies England, specifically targeting the transfer BCoT is offering learners the opportunity to have signed up to receive WSX Enterprise, part of Hampshire Business Join the Local Want to know your of public sector employment to the private work directly with your business the monthly newsletters Alliance, need more business mentors to meet sector. The programme offers new start-ups on a flexible work placement and over half a million start up and established businesses who either a preparation plan for success via expert to suit your company, at no cost. unique visitors have come require general business advice, or specialist International Trade carbon footprint? support, advice and training. Start up and to the website. But now, as part of a move to knowledge. Mentoring significantly helps pre start-up businesses in England can apply. BCoT the college can offer you Micro-businesses can now download a free make it simpler and easier for small businesses businesses to survive and grow and WSX Applicants get an introductory free Barclays someone who is interested in Forum report of their self-assessed Carbon Footprint to access help, Business in You is joining the Enterprise need to expand their mentoring Get Ready for Business seminar, followed by your sector and who is willing results. The on-line Business Carbon Footprint GREAT Britain campaign. Website content team. The work is voluntary but expenses Following its successful networking events an in depth assessment process, one-to-one to gain as much experience of the world of calculator for micro-businesses has been revised to cover a wider range of are met. Mentoring gives you an opportunity last year, which focused on approaching new advice, guidance and on-going mentoring. The work as possible. is used by over 20,000 users information for businesses at all stages of to give back something of what you have markets and on identifying and evaluating programme also includes a business planning www.bcot.ac.uk/courses/traineeships every year to self-assess their growth at www.greatbusiness.gov.uk. learnt during your own career. It also keeps potential partners in those markets, our local phase, access to finance support and early green-house gas emissions. your knowledge current and broadens your International Trade Forum will be running stage growth aspiration building. Applications As UK businesses move network. If you would like to know more events in 2014 which concentrate on the can be submitted at any time. forward to make carbon please contact practical side of exporting and questions www.startupedge.co.uk Growth accelerator reporting part of normal annual reporting, this [email protected]. raised by local companies. Details are being GrowthAccelerator exclusively targets high finalised and will be sent to businesses on their provides even the smallest of organisations growth businesses who want to enter their networking and peer to peer support from database. If you would like your business to be with the opportunity to take their first steps in next growth phase and have the potential a high growth community. SMEs can also added to the ITF’s circulation list, please e-mail carbon management. To use the tool visit and determination to get there. Working with benefit from developing their leadership and your contact details (name, company name www.carbonfootprint.com/calculator1.html an experienced coach, qualifying businesses management capability. and e-mail address) to [email protected] with ‘ITF receive a focused growth plan, masterclasses, www.growthaccelerator.com info’ in the heading.

14 15 BUSINESS OPPORTUNITIES & SUPPORT

Are you a Want to collaborate Twitter Facts Chamber member? with universities? Twitter How to decide Hampshire Chamber of Commerce represents Knowledge Transfer Partnerships (KTP) is a which can be expected from a single KTP businesses of all sizes and sectors from UK-wide programme that helps businesses and project are an increase of over £220,000 in Free small business guide to Twitter who to follow across the County organisations improve their competitiveness annual profits before tax, the creation of three A Tweet is a powerful tool. Every week billions company connect with customers, amplify of Hampshire and and/or productivity through the use of the genuine new jobs and an increase in skills of of Tweets flow through Twitter about every your message, and ultimately, grow your Suggested by Friends beyond, delivering the knowledge, technology and skills that reside existing staff. imaginable subject. A wide variety of people, business. 69% very best products within universities. Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (SMEs) organizations, businesses — big and small, local and services, business For further information go to Online Search KTP is a business support product run receive a grant worth approximately 67% and international — all use Twitter to make 47% information and advice, to help your business https://g.twimg.com/business/pdfs/Twitter_ by the Technology Strategy Board, a non- of the programme value. Large companies their presence known. A free guide is available to grow and prosper. In North Hampshire, the Smallbiz_Guide.pdf Suggested by Twitter departmental public body. Knowledge Transfer receive a grant worth approximately 50% to help small business owners understand how 44% Chamber runs a variety of regular business Partnerships involve a partnership between an of the programme value. In both cases the to use Twitter better. Twitter can help your events including free ‘Meet the Chamber’ 31% Promotions organisation (a company, local authority, NHS company’s contributions may be eligible for sessions. www.hampshirechamber.co.uk Trust, charity, etc), and the university, enabling R&D tax relief. the partner organisation to access and embed For more information on KTPs, go to Watching twitter grow skills and expertise. Got nothing to tweet about? www.ktponline.org.uk, where you can also Fleet Food Festival To help facilitate this, a graduate or search for participating universities. think again! 11 Twitter accounts created postgraduate, known as the KTP Associate, is every second If your company is interested in working with appointed to work at the business location, As Managing Director of KMS Marketing based What’s happening in your market-place? launched in 2014 a university, the SETsquared partnership is supported by the academic. Each KTP in Hook, Kara Stanford has over 15 years of Was there an item on the news that affects There are over 465 million a collaboration between the universities of Fleet’s first food festival is currently being project lasts between 12 and 36 months, experience in marketing. Kara and her team your customers? Mention it, bringing it to accounts Bath, Bristol, Exeter, and Surrey. planned back at the new committee’s HQ. depending upon the time required to deliver provide valuable marketing and PR services their attention, then add your own message They partner in enterprise activities and 175 million tweets a day If you run a food business, would like to real outcomes. Projects need to develop to businesses that don’t want the overheads about it: ‘Did you know that car-parks across collectively support the growth and success volunteer as a speaker or demonstrator, are new capabilities within the company and of an employed team but want the flexibility Hart are going to be free this Sunday? Use 1 million accounts are added to of new business opportunities through spin- interested in sponsoring the event or would are often based on the development and of different marketing and PR roles. KMS the opportunity to come and browse in our Twitter everyday outs, licensing and incubation. The Partnership like to get involved on the day, please get in implementation of new products, processes Marketing has a blog full of marketing tips shop on Fleet High Street, without worrying also works with industry through research touch with [email protected] and systems. and tricks and in this issue we invited them to about getting back before your ticket runs out.’ collaboration and consultancy. For more share their secrets about Twitter… We often This approach sets your business up as being Outputs vary between projects but the latest information about the types of projects, visit meet companies who have a Twitter account, a useful source of information. In turn, this How do you access it? reports from the Technology Strategy Board www.setsquared.co.uk LinkedIn company page, and Facebook page creates the impression of you being a business Procurement show that on average the company benefits with not much on them. When we gently who knows what they are talking about - a The South East Business Portal challenge them, they often reply, ‘But we’ve good reputation to have in any business setting. nothing to say!’ So here are KMS’s top tips for 10% We all love a good statistic Twitter Client This procurement portal shares information businesses to generate excellent social media Struggling to recruit? Try a work trial Found a stat that’s relevant to your business? 16% Mobile Application about existing contracts and forthcoming content… 64% Use it as a hook: ‘20% of working time is Twitter.com (web) tendering opportunities across the 74 councils A Work Trial is a way of trying out a potential committed because they’re volunteering to What’s happening in your business? wasted waiting for PCs to start-up, unfreeze and 9 fire & rescue services of the south east employee before offering them a job. Once do it and there are no wage costs - people Have you won a big contract recently? and reload. Our business technology package region. The councils collectively spend between agreed with Jobcentre Plus, you can offer a continue to get their benefits. Perhaps best of Successfully completed a client project? reduces this, saving your business time, money £4bn and £4.5bn each year on bought in work trial if the job is for 16 hours or more a all, there’s very little paperwork and it’s fuss- Attending an event or presenting at a show? and stress.’ goods and services. You are free to browse week and lasts at least 13 weeks. The work free. Contact your local Jobcentre Plus to find Tell us about it! ‘Our MD is presenting at the and use the information without registering or trial can last up to 30 days. The scheme out more at Share other people’s content Business Expo. For more info What makes you logging-in to the Portal. is risk free - you can try the person out https://www.gov.uk/contact-jobcentre-plus Seen a great article on LinkedIn that you think visit @PortsmouthExpo’ …and by mentioning www.businessportal.southeastiep.gov.uk before making a final decision. The person is other businesses will benefit from reading? another organisation, they should share your retweet? Then share it and say what you think people update with their followers, spreading your will gain from it: ‘Read this useful article company’s name even further (in the case of on how to write a great marketing plan’. Interesting Content @PortsmouthExpo, to over 1,100 followers, Personal Connection Again, you are positioning yourself as useful, 66% 84% most of whom are businesses in Hampshire). Humour Opportunities interesting, and a company who knows what 32% be interested to hear from you. In the past, What are your staff up to? they are talking about? Or, if you are short on Incentive Retweet Requests 26% 92% Do you have an IT project? students have completed work for several Pete just got a letter of thanks from a time, just retweet and like. It’s a quick way to 21% departments, and contributed to many aspects customer? Share it! Darcy raised £200 for a say, ‘I’m reading, I’m engaging and I’m sharing.’ Celebrity Status The University of Portsmouth’s school of of teaching, research and administration. local charity? Tell people! Not only are you Once you start looking at your business, computing is looking for clients who have sharing some of your company’s personal its staff, clients and marketplace in this way, IT development projects suitable for MSc Students are expected to choose their moments but you are publicly praising your you will never be short of useful, interesting students to carry about between May and projects by mid-March. So if you would like to team-members, which is great for morale. material which will raise your company’s September. The School of Computing is attract the best students, please submit ideas profile and reputation. looking for clients who have project ideas as soon as possible. For more details please What have your customers been doing? suitable for MSc students. see: Did someone visit your restaurant for a special For more useful articles and blogs on how to www.pums.cam.port.ac.uk/projects/ideas/2014 meal and take a photo of it? Ask if you can use marketing successfully in your business, If you have a problem that could be solved by or email Dr Bryan Carpenter post it on your company’s Facebook page. please visit www.kmsmarketing.co.uk and for IT development work, carried out between [email protected] Received a compliment? Tweet it! more information on KMS Marketing’s services, May and September this year, they would please email [email protected]. HART FOR BUSINESS ECOLIGHT Feel the Google Love How much does your Geoff Roy is a Search Engine Optimisation recommends you have an XML rather than those pages on their searches. Read more specialist based in Fleet and helps local an HTML version - and without it, there are about adding a robots.txt file here: businesses to make more money from their no guarantees that Google will find all of your www.leapfrogim.co.uk/robots online presence through his company Leapfrog webpages. You can find out more at lighting cost? Internet Marketing. Here, Geoff shares some www.leapfrogim.co.uk/map which tells you If you want to easily check if your website has practical top tips to ensure you and your how to create an XML version and how to these 3 things in place, you can use a free tool website get the most from the Google search find out if you already have one. like www.woorank.com Taking these steps Local business Ecolight are an Energy Here’s are tips for some quick wins engine… will let Google love your website that little bit Management Solutions company based in Flick the switch - turn off lights if you are away from a room for more than ten minutes. 2. www Redirect more. Fleet. They specialise in providing efficient Who doesn’t get frustrated with Google? A www.redirect makes sure that lighting solutions. Here they explain the 1 No work, no light. Ensure your employees turn off all lights after business hours and on You’ve followed all the guidelines, written www.leapfrogim.co.uk redirects to If you want a website that works better for benefits of improving your workplace energy weekends. some posts on your blog, yet you just don’t you, Geoff offers free website audits for efficiency and give you some quick tips for http://leapfrogim.co.uk. Or vice versa. If not, Only use necessary light - it may be best to utilise a lamp (with compact fluorescent lights seem to show up in Google’s search results. businesses. reducing your energy consumption... Google thinks 1 page is 2 pages – the 2 (CFLs) that provides you with the light you require, rather than turning on a light system So what’s stopping your website getting some www and non-www version of the same page. Contact Geoff at [email protected]. Did you know that up to 40% of a building’s that illuminates entire areas). Google love? And Google doesn’t like duplicate content, 07771 778850. www.leapfrogim.co.uk electricity use is accounted for by lighting, while even on the same website. All you need is a Turn off display lights after hours - remember to turn off your show room or display Here are 3 common errors I find on websites. the right level and quality of light improves the little bit of extra code. lighting after hours. Leaving lights on overnight, simply adds to your electricity bill. Fixing them will significantly increase the alertness and accuracy of those working in it? 3 chances of your website getting ranked on This means that significant cost savings can be 3. robots.txt Dust your lights - believe it or not, up to 50% of light reduction on fixtures and lamps can Google searches… achieved with energy-efficiency improvements, The robots.txt file is the first thing that Google be caused by dust. Establish a cleaning schedule of lights to ensure that all lights operate at and due to continually improving equipment, 4 1. Add an XML Sitemap looks for on your website. The file will let an optimum level. lighting usually provides the highest return-on- A sitemap lists all of your webpages or posts in you specify which pages Google search can investment of major upgrades. Optimise available light - ensure all light coloured surfaces are regularly cleaned and paint an easy list and an XML Sitemap gives Google or cannot access. By adding the file, you help dark walls and ceilings with lighter colours to reflect and maximise available light. a list of all the pages on your website that Google to find the content you want it to find Existing lighting systems are often old and 5 and Google might return the favour and rank you want to be ranked in its searches. Google out of date, and in some cases fail to meet Make the switch from incandescent to compact fluorescent light (CFL) globes - a typical the Health and Safety Executive standards for 6 CFL uses around 75-80% less electricity and lasts between eight and fifteen times. lighting in the workplace. Old lighting systems are often expensive to run and maintain. Take advantage of natural light - remove objects that are blocking windows to ensure you Exciting new technologies enable businesses 7 maximise optimal lighting. Why not open the blinds and curtains and let the sunlight shine? to have a huge range of more efficient lighting options which are great for employee Let there be light - uncovering an old skylight can provide your workplace with natural wellbeing and your carbon footprint - and 8 light and if installed properly, an energy-efficient skylight can help minimise your heating Win An Award 2014 and cooling too. with an average of 70% reduction in energy National StartUps Awards Natwest everywoman outstanding achievements of both individuals consumption through improved lighting, Exchange exit sign lighting - replace incandescent exit lighting with light emitting diode Get your start-up company noticed! After awards and teams for the contribution they make. essentially - your bottom line! 9 (LED) lamps. LED models use approximately 70% less energy than conventional units and Awards carry cash prizes and there are three celebrating its 10th anniversary in 2013, the The NatWest everywoman Awards have Recent client, Edge Hill University, approached can provide significant energy and cost savings. categories. For more information visit Startups Awards scheme is now in its 11th raised the profile of hundreds of women Ecolight to improve the energy consumption www.servicedeskinstitute.com/events/it- For more information visit: www.ecolight-ltd.com year and they are on the hunt for the best of all ages across every imaginable sector, and maintenance costs in their 3 story service-excellence-awards of British businesses. To be eligible to enter demonstrating the impact of female owned purpose built library. By overhauling the lighting all companies must have started to trade no enterprises, which contribute a staggering systems, the university saved £14,232 and earlier than 1 August 2011 and no later than £130 billion to the UK economy each year. INSPIRE BUSINESS AWARDS more than halved their energy consumption in 31 July 2014, be independently owned and The achievements of previous winners and The Inspire Business Awards celebrate the first 9 months. UK based. You can register your interest now finalists, who have often successfully overcome the success of local businesses in north and entries open 15th July 2014. Deadline obstacles to achieve their success, have played Hampshire. The awards are open to businesses for entries 27th September 2014. Register at a huge role in encouraging other women to in the Hart district and will ensure leading www.startups.co.uk/startups-awards. start and grow a business. Nominations open local businesses in early April 2014. Find out more here (both large and The Digital Awards www.everywoman.com/ewawards. small) gain the Horizon 2020 launched in the UK recognition Are you breaking the rules? Changing the If you run a business or are an academic work together in delivering innovation. Thanks game? Generally being brilliant? Then you may IT SERVICE & SUPPORT AWARDS they deserve for themselves and brimming with innovative ideas you can to its healthy budget Horizon 2020 offers be one of the trailblazers who are evolving, The IT Service & Support Awards are now now take advantage of Horizon 2020 - the UK businesses and researchers important transforming and innovating brands within the in their 19th year and are the most coveted for the dedication and commitment of their staff. Inspire 14 will showcase regional largest ever EU Research and Innovation opportunities to find finance, networks and digital space. This is your opportunity for global awards in the IT service and support funding programme with an available budget partnerships for innovation. The programme recognition. The awards are open for entry management industry. They recognise, businesses and will centre around an outstanding awards ceremony to promote the of €79bn, launched in the UK today. Open has a particular focus on small businesses, with from June 2014 and you can register your promote and to everyone, with a simpler structure than 20% of the programme’s budget allocated for interest to receive a notification via acclaim excellence, continued success of the region’s businesses and growth of the local economy. Applications previous programmes, Horizon 2020 aims to SMEs. www.h2020uk.org. www.thedigitalsawards.com/enter. professionalism and ensure Europe produces world-class science, innovation, and open later in the year. www.inspirebusinessawards.co.uk removes barriers to innovation and makes it celebrate the easier for the public and private sectors to

18 19 National BUSINESS NEWS

South East most valuable region Hampshire Chamber in UK for business deals of Commerce

The South East has topped the charts for based than previously thought. Mid-market appoints new CEO the value of business deals being done, new companies are continuing to drive this growth research shows. According to Experian and remain attractive targets for mergers and The board of Hampshire Chamber of Corpfin’s latest report, £105,445 million acquisitions – especially for those companies Commerce has appointed Stewart Dunn to worth of deals took place in the region in looking for a safe and accessible entry point to the position of CEO with effect from February 2013, the highest value in the UK by far. The Europe.” 2014. This follows the announcement earlier this National Business News closest competitor was greater London, where The fact that the South East has had the year that current CEO Jimmy Chestnutt was £79,078m worth of deals was done. highest value of deals comes not long after stepping down to take retirement after being in It’s positive news for the South East’s economy it was revealed that the region is one of the position for nine years. Medium sized businesses Energy Conservation and yet another sign of the continuing most positive in the UK when it comes to Dunn is currently managing director of Carswell economic recovery, according to financial business optimism. The latest ICAEW/Grant Gould, an award-winning integrated marketing are economy’s real heroes Grant Schemes experts at Grant Thornton’s Southampton Thornton UK Business Confidence Monitor communications agency in Southampton. office. (BCM) found that business confidence in the His previous roles in the newspaper industry Ngage Solutions have region has been on an upward trend over the included managing director of Newsquest New research from the Confederation of employ 4.7 million people which is 16% of the Partner Norman Armstrong said: “The increase announced two new past year and now stands at +35.9, well above Hampshire where he was responsible for the British Industry (CBI) shows that the medium- UK’s total workforce. in deal volumes we’re experiencing across grant schemes which the UK national average of +31.7. publishing of the award-winning Southern Daily sized businesses are the unsung heroes of the most of our sectors is further evidence that Turnover for the country’s unsung heroes support energy Echo and Hampshire Chronicle as well as the UK economy. Business group the CBI has new the nascent recovery in the UK is more broad- equates to between £10 million and £100 conservation, and will development of digital publishing. research to show that, whilst they may not million per firm meaning that MSBs have help qualifying be household names, the UK’s medium-sized He commented: “I am really looking forward contributed over £300 billion gross added organisations in the businesses (MSBs) are the ones that have to taking up my appointment as CEO at this value to the UK economy. This equates to 23% South East of England Survey reveals low awareness of done a lot of the “heavy lifting” during the very exciting time for the organisation as of total private sector revenue. save and even make economic recovery. government recognises, through the Heseltine money. Low Carbon tax incentives among SMEs report, that the Chamber is the first choice Employing between 50 and 499 people, As well as contributing to the economy, Workspaces is match funded grant, worth up for helping to deliver business growth for the medium-sized firms have contributed the nation’s medium-sized businesses are to £5,000 and is aimed at SMEs who own or A recent survey has revealed there is low Research and Development tax credits were region.” significantly to job creation and growth across particularly upbeat about the next 12 months rent their premises on a long lease. awareness and usage of tax incentives for first introduced in 2000-2001 to encourage the United Kingdom. with 82% of firms expecting the economic research and development among small and greater R&D investment. Since then, the Outgoing former CEO Jimmy Chestnutt said: For more information visit outlook to improve whilst 88% anticipate their medium-sized businesses which could be available tax breaks have become more “I fully support this appointment. Stewart The data from the CBI shows that between www.lowcarbonworkspaces.co.uk own business growth. hampering their prospects for growth. The generous and HMRC has expanded the way will bring a wealth of business and media March 2010 and March 2013, the UK’s MSBs Grants for Eco Innovation is offering grants of survey showed that only 15 per cent of the it interprets and applies the rules in order to experience to the Chamber which will be created 185,000 jobs, a 4.1% increase and The CBI’s full findings can be seen in their local up to £3,000 to help businesses who already 750 SMEs surveyed knew about research provide greater stimulus for innovation in the invaluable in supporting the Chamber’s better than smaller firms (1-49 employees) champions campaign pages, and in their report have an environmentally friendly product or and development tax credits, despite the economy. initiatives for business growth in the months with a 2.8% increase and the biggest Future Champions - Unlocking growth in the service and need help getting it to market. Government launching the scheme nearly 14 ahead.” companies only increasing jobs by 1.9% UK’s medium-sized businesses. www.cbi.org.uk/ For more information visit The latest figures from HMRC show that years ago. campaigns/future-champions/local-champions www.grantsforecoinnovation.co.uk most of the R&D tax relief claimed in 2011-12 Dunn is well known to the Chamber having Whilst they only make up just 1.8% of the UK Other tax incentive schemes also appeared was by large companies (£780m) rather than been a former president of Southampton and private sector, the nation’s medium-sized firms to have a low profile, with only eight per cent SMEs (£420m). According to the survey, only and a director of Hampshire Chamber. knowing about the Seed Enterprise Investment one tax incentive – Capital Allowances – was He was awarded an honorary doctorate in Scheme (SEIS) and four per cent aware of the recognised by more than half of respondents 2011 by Southampton Solent University for his Patent Box. surveyed. For more information visit www. contribution to the media industry. Many SMEs not ready for auto enrolment pensions gov.uk/research-development-tax-credit-smes www.hampshirechamber.co.uk The latest research shows a worrying number Enterprises (SMEs), usually considered to have The British Chambers of Commerce (BCC) of UK SMEs are still not ready for the onset between 1 and 249 employees, will start to be and NEST (National Employment Savings of auto enrolment pensions. With the law affected from the 1st April 2014. Trust) have also created a business guide to Tech|start coming soon… changing a few years ago, employers are auto-enrolment, designed to help employers Concern from the pension advisory industry is now required to automatically enrol their plan for legal changes to workplace pensions. that not enough small and medium-sized firms First Wessex, Rushmoor Borough Council, free courses to help people develop new skills If you are planning to renew or upgrade employees in a workplace pension scheme To download the guide, go to are either aware or even prepared for the Rushmoor Schools Plus and Future Workforce and return to work. your IT equipment in the next year or two, if they meet three simple criteria: Workers http://www.hampshirechamber.co.uk/ have joined forces to create Tech|start, a new Tech|start would love to hear from you and onset of auto enrolment pensions and they In order to help people get online and must work in the UK, earn more than £9,440 information_advice not for profit enterprise, specifically set up to discuss the possibility of your organisation are expecting what has been called a “tsunami” live in this digital age, Tech|start is relying a year and be aged between 22 and the state help the local community get online. Tech|start donating some computers or laptops to a of businesses suddenly seeking guidance. on donations of equipment from local pension age. will help those who can’t afford to purchase great social cause. In return for any donations businesses and educational establishments. The Pensions Regulator offers guidance equipment at typical high street prices and received, your organisation’s details will be Understanding the size of different businesses, The project has already been supported and on workplace pensions including tools for offer advice and training into the bargain. added to the website and list of supporters staging dates have been introduced where received around 250 computers from CSC, employers to work out their staging date and mentioned in any press and publicity. For businesses of particular sizes are required to As well as computer sales and repairs, Farnborough Sixth Form College, Newport from their P35 and advice on creating an auto more information about Tech|start or to find comply with the new law. Tech|start will also act as a one stop digital Junior School, Farnborough Tech College and enrolment plan for employees. out how you or your organisation can support shop for employment and training advice. Marks and Spencers. Donations could be a The first staging date was the 1st February www.thepensionsregulator.gov.uk us, please contact Mark Loudon on In partnership with Samuel Cody Specialist one off or a regular arrangement. 2014 for firms with between 249 and 07590 470007 www.techstart.org.uk 349 employees. Small and Medium-sized Sports College, they will be offering a range of

20 21 GENERAL BUSINESS NEWS LOCAL BUSINESS NEWS

Hampshire broadband Quarter of SMEs rollout: phase one to make sustainability Local Business News a top priority in 2014 Commercial investment across Hampshire publish details for each phase as they become will see 80% of properties given access to available. The ‘Phase One’ map shows the One in four small businesses in the UK plan to Congratulations to Tylney Hall Raise a glass! superfast broadband services. Hampshire Hampshire Superfast Broadband Programme make sustainable business practices a priority County Council has awarded a contract to BT due to be completed by the end of March in 2014, according to a survey by Lloyds Rotherwick’s Tylney Hall Hotel and its Oak recognition for members of staff, helping The Phoenix Inn in Phoenix Green, Hartley Openreach to extend this coverage to 90% 2014 and will enable 6,000 premises to Commercial Banking. The survey also reveals Room Restaurant, have both been awarded guests or their own colleagues. Each month, a Wintney, has won several awards over the of properties by the end of 2015. The County have access to superfast broadband services. a third of small businesses expect to increase Tripadvisor’s Certificate of Excellence. The ceremony is held and nominees are rewarded last year including Les Routiers ‘Inn of the Council understands how important access Work began in October 2013 and the first investment in sustainable business practices Certificate of Excellence is awarded to with a Champagne Afternoon Tea. Staff who Year 2013’, British Roast Dinner Week’s ‘Best to better broadband is for residents in rural customers will be able to ‘switch on’ to over the next five years. It was carried out businesses that rank in the top 10 per cent receive five or 10 nominations can pick up a Roast Dinner in the UK 2012’ and Tripadvisor’s areas, and they are working on plans to extend superfast broadband services from January by Gusto Research on behalf of Lloyds Bank worldwide for traveller feedback. General voucher worth £50 or £100. General manager ‘Certificate of Excellence 2013’. More recently, coverage to at least 95% of premises by the 2014. To see the maps visit and drew on responses from more than 1000 manager Mark Ashton, at Tylney Hall, said: ‘We Mark Robinson the pub won acclaim for its array of wines end of 2017. http://www3.hants.gov.uk/broadband-maps small to medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) with are delighted to have received this award. It said ‘The on offer and been named as joint winner of is a reflection of Tylney Hall Hotel’s faultless scheme has the title ‘Best Wine Pub 2013’ for the South Two maps are available. The first map ‘The Big a turnover of up to £25 million. service and continued dedication to provide proved to be West region in the BT Sport Great British Pub Picture’ shows a high level view, or forecast, of The findings suggest 2014 could be a turning our guests with the best hotel and dining a fantastic Awards 2013. The awards are organised by the 90% coverage area by the end of 2015. point for sustainability in the SME sector as experience possible.’ The hotel has also made initiative to leading pub industry magazine, the Publican’s Detailed maps will be published for each small businesses begin to recognise the value a splash by recently been chosen by The reward, Morning Advertiser. Congratulations! phase as they enter deployment. Delivery will of green businesses practices in growing their Telegraph as one of Britain’s best hotels with recognise and be broken down into 7 phases and we will business. The report found that over half (54 an outdoor pool. motivate our staff, who continue to deliver per cent) believe business sustainability helps outstanding service in an unrivalled working Staff are also being rewarded for going the reduce their costs and just under a third (30 environment.’ per cent) believe it increases their profitability. extra mile. The hotel runs an employee New EU LEADER grants to boost reward scheme designed to provide instant If you’d like to know more about sustainable business, you can join the North Hampshire rural economy - coming soon! Sustainable Business Network for free. Email [email protected] to find out more. Local business stars on screen - twice! Over the last 5 years the European strand of the core details for the next strategy and lead Andwells Brewery rural funding known as LEADER has provided the funding guidelines. Dignity Pet Crematorium, based between Kevin says ‘Hopefully the programmes will many businesses, farmers, forest managers/ Odiham and Winchfield, has recently featured show off all the hard work we’ve put in to try To be eligible for a grant, your business should Please visit owners and communities with a number of in two TV programmes. and make both our service and our facilities relaunches the either be located in a rural area, or if not, have www.survey.hants.gov.uk/leaderproject.htm grants ranging from £1,000 to £50,000. In the best in the country!’ a beneficial effect on the areas rural economy to take the survey. The business appeared in Channel 4’s north Hampshire, projects have been diverse, and/or community. This could be directly such 4Thought morality series, a programme Dignity Pet Crematorium is part of the Trading Derby Inn funding anything from a milk pasteuriser to For more information contact the LEADER questioning whether pets deserve funerals. Standards ‘Buy with Confidence’ scheme and as creating job opportunities and providing Hart based business Andwell Brewery are a marketing plan for a maize maze. Several Programme Manager for north Hampshire, Partner in the business, Kevin Spurgeon, also they were recently shortlisted in the final 3 goods/services for locals, or indirectly such as investing, expanding and diversifying – great projects have been funded across the Hart Emily Preston on 01962 845560 or email appeared on Farm Fixer, a BBC programme for the Home Business Innovation Category using local suppliers and rural facilities/services. news for the local area. Andwell Brewing District and the council is keen to see more [email protected]. in Northern Ireland about farms wanting to of the Guardian Small Business Showcase Company owners Adam and Helen Komrower, investment through the programme. Help us to help you! Please take the LEADER diversify. Kevin explains ‘The producer wanted competition. The local service started by LEADER is also looking for new members for have expanded the Andwell’s brand to include online survey now and influence how and me to give the owners of Pets Farewell Barry & Carole Spurgeon in 1992 previously LEADER is now preparing for the next round the North Hampshire LEADER Action Group. a pub, having teamed up with Savoy trained where the new grants will be allocated in the Crematorium, based near Belfast, the benefit gained national recognition after being named of grants and they need your input. This is your If you are interested in getting involved in chef Brian Ahearn, who runs the Willow Tree north of Hampshire. The survey is open online of my experience of running an award winning “Best Pet Crematorium” at the Cemetery of chance to help shape the next programme helping to shape the rural economy of North in Winchester. until the end March 2014. The survey will also pet cremation service. Like us they found the Year Awards and hopes to add to their and open up new opportunities for funding. Hampshire and think you could spare a few be used as a means of finding out if you are that many vets don’t offer a more personal growing list of accolades. Adam, who initially What they learn from this survey will provide days a year, please contact Emily. interested in applying for a grant in the next service and only offer clients a basic ‘ashes set up the brewery There are many opportunities for businesses round. back’ option provided by the weekly firm they business with his wife to appear on TV, with specific websites such contract to. I gave them lots of pointers and Helen in 2008 at as www.beonscreen.com as well as the BBC, suggested they looked at letting owners know nearby Lodge Farm, Channel 4 and ITV listing opportunities on they could choose their more local service in North LEADER case study - Nextdoor Bistro, Odiham their websites. Why not give it a go? instead of just leaving their pet at the vet.’ Warnborough, was ‘Nextdoor’ is a popular bistro on Odiham High installation, enabling the new bistro to cook offers an informal setting with a variety of food not only a patron of the pub but he also Street. Formerly part of The George Hotel, the food on the premises. choices. Our business has thrived and without supplied it with beer. He’d been looking at owners faced closure due to a lease ending the grant it would have been difficult for us to pubs for a while. He said: ‘It was the best pub Since its launch in October 2012, the bar has Have you recently secured new with the adjacent premises and had an idea – take on this new challenge”. in the area to eat, and it was one of those gone from strength to strength, it has provided contracts? Taken on new staff? Or just a new bistro in the thriving local community. places that I thought, ‘actually, this is an ideal an informal meeting place within Odiham for If you’d like to know more have a good news story you would like pub’. It’s a good size, it has a nice outdoor After hearing about the LEADER grants and locals and has become quite a hub within the about the next round of to share with other local companies space, and it has a nice-sized bar.’ a successful application, the funding enabled community. Rachel, owner of the business tells funding, contact Emily Preston through our new regular Hart for them to refurbish and separate the freehold us how successful the project has been, “Our via [email protected] Business e-bulletin? Please send them to What a great excuse to book a business part of the building, providing a means to customers have given us fantastic feedback, and don’t forget to complete [email protected]. meeting, try a local beer and support a local continue to trade but under a new name, they love the buzz and atmosphere of the the survey to influence how business! rebranding as a restaurant and bar. The grant restaurant. We are also now attracting people and where the money will be paid for a brand new kitchen, equipment and popping in for a lunch meeting as the place spent.

22 23 LOCAL BUSINESS NEWS

Surface Technology International Expands Double joy for On Friday 27th January Surface Technology Scott Kenward, business development director Jargon PR International (STI) was delighted to host a at Lloyds Bank Commercial Banking added: factory tour for the Rt Hon James Arbuthnot, ‘During the challenging economic conditions JARGON PR, based at Eversley Cross, near local Conservative MP for North East of the last few years STI’s management team Hook, has been named as Small Consultancy Local Town & Village Updates Hampshire and Chairman of the Defence has continued to deliver growth. The new of the Year in the 2013 Thames and Chiltern Select Committee. In the past few years, the funding will help them to capitalise on new Chartered Institute of Public Relations site has recently seen substantial growth, opportunities, particularly in overseas markets. (CIPR) PRide Awards. The agency also moving from c.21,000sq metres to c.60,000sq They are typical of the innovative mid-market received a Silver Award for Corporate & Businesses join forces to celebrate Odiham Village High Street metres and now employs over 450 people in businesses which are helping to sustain the Business Communications. Managing director the local area. Simon Best, Group Managing UK’s economic revival.’ Simon Corbett said: “The awards are a timely Businesses in Odiham have joined forces in a the group expanded the Odiham Extravaganza village. Over 150 people attended and we look Director, is committed to keeping the business reminder of the brilliant work that we do for bid to transform the fortunes of the village’s – the village’s annual Christmas shopping event forward to seeing the results! local and the opportunity to develop further clients both in the UK and internationally.” High Street. Taking inspiration from retail guru to thousands of visitors. Hart District Council is delighted that the on the current site has been an important Mary Portas, the group, called InOdiham, Jan Baker, who runs The Frame gallery said ‘I local businesses themselves have initiated this part of the expansion plans. includes some 43 shops and cafes despite only honestly believe that if we had not done this, group and have already put in place successful starting at the end of May 2013. STI has ambitious revenue growth of more Fleet Business I would have been out of business. Trade has activities to bring new footfall into the village. than 15 per cent next year after securing Activities have already started taking place. definitely picked up and already the market Hart will be supporting InOdiham over the a new £11.5m financing package from Network launched! InOdiham has paid for hanging baskets to be is bringing in people and it has made retailers forthcoming months and we are looking Lloyds Bank Commercial Banking, which hung from the High Street lamp posts and has feel better. The enthusiasm from the village has forward to see how the group develops. Join will support their growth strategy in the Local business women introduced a popular market selling vegetables, just been outstanding.’ the Facebook group at commercial aerospace and defence, medical, Caroline Ellison and homemade bread and other delicacies every www.facebook.com/inodiham. Following on from their activities last year, oil and gas and industrial sectors. Simon Best, Emily Graham have Friday. It also ran a highly successful Italian inOdiham ran an open day in January for local STI’s founder and managing director, said recently launched the market on August Bank Holiday Monday 2013, people to give their ideas on the future of the the new funding arrangement gives it the new Fleet Business which featured an Italian car rally. In December, headroom and flexibility to invest and grow its Network. proposition. Caroline recognised the need for a specific business directory after facilitating the Fleet Parents Facebook group, Fleet’s Town Plan is launched which has over 3,000 members. With these Drop kids off. members posting every 3 minutes and Fleet Future launched their Town Plan on 27th describing how they will move ahead on the and supported by local Councils, the group around 70% of posts requesting business November 2013, after the Fleet community recommendations in the report. has developed an evidence based town plan in recommendations, Caroline jumped at the embraced the concept of developing a partnership with the local community to bring 17 recommendations were consulted Have a career. Pick kids up chance to develop a new website focussing community-led plan for Fleet. about improvements in the town. on, covering the economy, transport and There are thousands of talented mothers in on big salary overheads. We aim to fix that specifically on businesses with Emily, who runs The town plan has come about as a result of community matters. The vision for Fleet, which Many exciting North Hampshire with fantastic professional problem for them’. local web design business SilkiSkills. In its first enormous energy from volunteers gathering was supported by over 95% of respondents to recommendations skills and experience who want to work month, Fleet Business Network had over 4,500 Karen and Louise are aiming to build an information about the town, analysing facts and the community survey, is to ‘create a bustling, are already being part-time. There are many companies in our visits and 19,000 page views. unrivalled local community of professional trends, preparing recommendations, consulting attractive, sustainable, leafy green town which put into action and local business community who would love to people seeking flexible work, give them the Emily said ‘Facebook is notoriously difficult the community and shaping an action plan to is easy to get about in and has an active volunteer action employ experienced professional people but practical support they need when switching to search on, requests for recommendations help inform plans for Fleet in the future. community’. With 1335 respondents, the teams are currently can’t afford (or don’t need) someone on full- to part-time work and personally connect are often missed and many requests are survey gives Fleet Future a clear mandate to being formed. If you time hours. Launched in January, Fleet based This completed town plan for Fleet is them with local businesses. We’ll also give our repeated regularly. The Fleet Business secure support to put them into action. would like to be involved, please email Ten2Two work to bring these based on all the evidence and results of local employers hands-on support to take Network provides a simple directory of local [email protected] for more information. two groups together, enabling local the community consultation between July Fleet Future is an independent, apolitical, advantage of flexible working”. businesses, categorised by service and rated by To read the Town Plan please visit small and medium businesses to to September last year. The Town Plan also community led group, formed in early 2013 recommendations from local people.’ www.fleetfuture.com gain huge benefits by finding For further information contact: includes Fleet Future’s Action Programme and made up entirely of volunteers. Initiated talented and committed employees Louise Boardman-Rule From the start, the two entrepreneurs living just around the corner at an [email protected] tel: 0776 9340475 focussed on a unique business rating affordable cost. or Karen Wylie system. Rather than ratings based on a [email protected] tel: 01252 856862 company’s own opinion, ratings are based on Enterprise M3 – driving prosperity in the M3 corridor Karen Wylie and Louise Boardman-Rule, www.ten2two.org recommendations from local people and are friends – and now colleagues – have launched checked by local people. The 300 businesses Kathy Slack, Director of the We a business-led partnership that is working launching three exciting projects which will be at a time when local businesses are playing a who have already signed up are encouraging Enterprise M3 LEP shares an with public sector organisations such as Hart of interest to Hart businesses. vital role in turning the economy around. ‘As their clients to submit recommendations and update on their new funds, District Council and other local partners, we were thinking about returning to work, the website is growing fast. events and recent activities… including business, to provide the vision, New investment funds for SMEs we started to notice the wealth of talented knowledge and strategic leadership needed to At our Annual Conference (see below), mothers in the playground every morning and Caroline said ‘It is so important for all Enterprise M3 is the Local drive sustainable private sector growth and job Enterprise M3 will be launching two new realised this is the same in every school’ says businesses to have an online presence. The Enterprise Partnership for an creation in the Enterprise M3 area. investment funds for SMEs in the area. These Karen. ‘At the same time we were looking at Fleet Business Network provides a web area which covers the New funds, worth £5.5 million in total, are aimed We have set out our vision for growth in a local companies across the county who are presence that gets them to the Forest through Hampshire up to the M25, at SMEs who are looking to grow and need Strategic Economic Plan and are negotiating striving to grow and improve. They’re held top of search engine results’. including the towns and villages that are funding in order to do so. The first fund is an back because they can’t always afford the best with government for substantial funds to You can visit the Fleet Business served by Hart District Council. equity investment fund aimed at early stage people and are rightly cautious about taking improve transport links, housing, skills and Network via business support. This spring Enterprise M3 is continued on page 26 www.fleetbusinessnetwork.co.uk

24 25 BUSINESS SPOTLIGHT

need for a new product, now require funding 02380 682520. For future events for business to scale up the business. go to www.enterprisem3.org.uk/events. For more information about the funds, email For more details about Enterprise M3 Local [email protected] Enterprise Partnership, go to www.enterprisem3.org.uk SMEs and the second will deliver loan funding For more information, please email or follow us @enterprisem3 on Twitter. to innovative businesses that, having proven [email protected] or call the concept and clearly established the market Free Business Events

Digital Design Agency Meet the Chamber and Basingstoke Business Club Weekly morning business networking events - Free Web Workshops Business Exhibition From Little Acorns ... at Basingstoke College of Technology. 31 March 2014 Join the team of experts at the Digital Design www.basingstokebusinessclub.org.uk 4.30 – 6.30pm Agency for a free web workshop session. Princes Hall, Aldershot BNI Topics include Facebook for Beginners and Free Weekly breakfast meetings. Membership Search Engine Optimisation. There are limited Spotlight on local business required. www.bni.eu spaces so please book quickly via Your chance to forge new business contacts, www.ddawebdesign.com/dda-web-workshops meet Chamber members and discover how Blackwater Valley Networking your business can grow and prosper with the Weekly networking meetings in Farnborough. Source Supplies Energy Conservation Grant Hampshire Chamber of Commerce. View www.bvnetworking.co.uk the business exhibition in a friendly relaxed Business Biscotti Schemes atmosphere over a cup of tea and enjoy Basingstoke excellent networking opportunities. To book Regular networking events. 27 Mar 2014 www.businessbiscotti.co.uk We recently met Ollie Rastell from Source a market that I thought (from exhibition tables please contact Supplies at the Inspire Awards and we research) needed an injection Pro-actions will provide a free seminar [email protected] Business Over Breakfast ourselves were inspired by his story of how of life. This for me is one of on 27 March 2014, from 9am to 12pm, at Attendance is FREE but registration is essential. Regular networking www.bobclubs.com Source Supplies have grown their business the golden rules of starting a the Basingstoke and Deane Civic Offices, Coffee & Connect so successfully and rapidly over the past 7 business; is there a need? Basingstoke. This briefing will help you Pure Networking at Tylney Hall Fleet’s monthly morning and evening network years. Source Supplies provide cleaning, understand the importance of each stage of Of course, there was a risk 19 May 2014 events in Fleet. www.coffeeandconnect.co.uk hygiene and janitorial products to trade, your sales process and the critical success associated with the decision to Tylney Hall, Rotherwick consumers, small businesses and large scale factors that will help you to increase your sales Connecting Biz leave a salary to turn my hand to 4.30 – 6.30pm corporate businesses and through their unique and improve your results. Monthly networking events around Hart and something I had no experience Free and fun company ethos, they now sell right To book your free place please visit Basingstoke. www.connectingbiz.co.uk in - but then that’s the risk across the country. Ollie shares his story of www.pro-actions.com ‘Pure Networking’ a series of complimentary and reward scenario that each Fabulous Women & Marvellous Men entrepreneurship with us… networking events for Hampshire Chamber entrepreneur is always of Commerce members. Your opportunity to Monthly networking events I never thought I’d sell toilet roll for a living, calculating. Living off savings Get Ready for Business network and make new business contacts in www.fabulous-women.co.uk that’s for sure. It wasn’t high on the list (and credit cards) was the only Events throughout Hampshire an informal atmosphere over a tea or coffee Farnham Business Club (or even on it) of jobs at the careers fair option as there wasn’t enough Apri-May 2014 with fellow members and staff. Stay for the whilst at school. However, a string of P45s business to pay both myself Weekly breakfast meetings in Farnham. If you are thinking of starting a business then whole event or just drop in for half an hour www.farnhambusinessclub.org.uk throughout my twenties, a few failed attempts and Dave. Faced with no option but to make this seminar is for you. if time is tight. Remember to bring plenty of at entrepreneurship and several leaps of it work (going back to paid employment Once we had a business model that we were Business Cards! To secure a place on this event Hampshire Chamber of Commerce faith later, Source Supplies is a successful fully with my tail between my legs again was not happy with, we identified our perfect type of It will give you the tools you need to take your please click on the ‘Book and pay online’ icon Regular networking events functioning business that my business partner, happening!), I cold called businesses within a customer. This helped focus our prospecting to business idea from the drawing board to the below or email www.hampshirechamber.co.uk/events Dave Piper, and I are very proud of. profitable radius of our storage unit at the give us the best chance of maximizing profit real world. You will get expert advice, help and [email protected] Ladies Who Latte same time as rebranding the business to stand and delivering a top drawer service. Walking encouragement in a number of area. I was fortunate to join a micro business Monthly networking events out from the crowd. away from opportunities that aren’t quite right (one-man-band) in 2010 that already had This seminar is for you is for you if you if you Local networking groups www.ladieswholatte.com a small base of customers. The product set The rebranding helped with the success takes a lot of strength, but the health of your have a business idea and want to take it to and events didn’t really bother me, what appealed was of the cold calling. Not being afraid to be business has to the primary concern. the next step, want support to complete your Surrey Chambers the challenge of developing a business from different enabled us to get the attention of our Today, we are a team of 13 local people, a business or marketing plans or think you are The majority of local networks don’t require Regular networking events across Surrey. an acorn to something that would fill a gap in prospects and that is another pillar of business turnover £2m per year and are growing by ready to start but want to ensure you have membership fees and you pay per event – visit www.surrey-chambers.co.uk 50% annually. We have a reputation in the that I stand by; try to be different to every done everything necessary to get off on the their websites to find out more. This is just Surrey Heath Business Network other business in your sector. industry for our award-winning customer right foot. some of the network groups available. service and have a company profile that stands Weekly networking meetings in Camberley. Topics covered include writing a good business 4Networking www.shbn.co.uk In the early days, we often sold on price just out from the crowd and stretches across half plan, sourcing finance, managing cash flow, Regular networking meetings. Membership to pick up business. It’s a trap lots of fledgling the country. All this aside, we are still only just meeting your legal obligations, taxation and Women in Business Group businesses fall into because it’s an easy win. beginning… required. www.4networking.biz VAT, marketing and finding the right banking Basingstoke 4 Business Regular networking meetings However, this model quickly evolved when solutions. Book your place at www.wibg.org.uk Ollie Rastall Weekly business networking in Basingstoke we realised that our service was said to www.enterprisefirst.co.uk be superior to our competitors and so we Director www.basingstoke4business.co.uk became proud of our price. After all, if you Source Supplies win a customer on price, be prepared to lose www.sourcesupplies.co.uk them on price.

26 27 Hart District Council For an alternative format please contact Civic Offices contact Jennifer Atherton, Economic Harlington Way Development Officer Fleet [email protected] Hampshire GU51 4AE www.facebook.com/HartDistrictCouncil Tel: 01252 622122 Fax: 01252 626886 @HartCouncil email: [email protected] www.hart.gov.uk