Chamber Welcome

President’s CEO welcome address Well the last 12 months certainly contained Since joining the moments of drama - internationally, nationally board of the and locally. Donald Trump was elected as US British Chambers President. was backed. Devolution for of Commerce and Norfolk wasn’t. (BCC) I’ve had But it was also the year when the Suffolk more of an success story continued to advance opportunity than I’m not suggesting, obviously, that we are ever before to travel round the country insulated from the events listed above. But I do and see what is going on across the believe that our business community, because of network. its diversity, the collaborative way in which it I’ve been impressed by the strategic engages with our public sector partners to best sense of purpose of our whole effect, and its sheer drive and energy, is better operation. We really are the voice of placed than most areas. business, taken very seriously by The diversity of our membership is shown by government ministers, their shadows the broad range of businesses covered in the chair of the New Anglia Post-16 Area Review and national media. Chamber Member News section of this edition Steering Group (page 4). This important review There are just so many Suffolk of Chamber Voice. Read about golf course will assess local economic and education needs Chamber initiatives that are driving equipment manufacturers at the Rio Olympics to make sure that our college education system forward the skills and confidence of (page 19), award-winning accountancy software meets the needs of learners and employers. local businesses that it is difficult to developers (page 20) and more. In terms of drive and energy, nowhere is this know where to start. I’m delighted that Of course, there is still more to be done to more clearly demonstrated than among the our programme of support to exporters realise the massive business potential of our local fantastic members of our various boards. continues to develop with the recent community and that is why I am delighted to tell Everyone involved is a volunteer, as well as highly-regarded workshop on exporting you that Suffolk Business Women, part of Suffolk being incredibly busy running their own to Russia (page 5). Chamber, has launched its campaign for more agile businesses and pursing many other interests. It is also good to see TechEast, a working practices across the county as well as You can catch up with news about the boards wholly-owned subsidiary of your more equal representation between the genders overseeing our town representation on pages chamber, has set up its London office (page 6). I’m also pleased that your chamber was 16 and 17. (page 4). able to sponsor an award at the inaugural Black And devolution might not be entirely over And our Young Chamber initiative and Minority Ethnic Business Awards (page 6), either (page 5)! goes from strength-to-strength in celebrating the incredible achievements of this part Finally, don’t forget that you’ve still got a day helping more schools and colleges than of our business community. or so to contribute to the Stage 2 consultation ever before bridge the gap between Suffolk Chamber continues to work into EDF Energy’s proposed Sizewell C power the worlds of education and work. The extremely productively with public sector station. More information on page 12. scheme received a real boost late last partners and representatives, including our So thanks to 2016 and here’s to a Suffolk- year as EDF Energy became its second seven MPs. It was a pleasure to catch up with style successful 2017! patron (page 12). Peter Aldous MP for my feature interview This edition of Chamber Voice also (pages 10 and 11) in this magazine. John Dugmore contains coverage of the excellent Our immediate past president, Dr Peter Chief Executive Suffolk Chamber of Commerce in Funnell has been appointed as the independent Suffolk Chamber of Commerce & Waveney Business Awards. Thanks to the kindness of our friends at Archant, we have also been able to reproduce an interview from the East Anglian Daily Times with three of our Contents board chairs. This makes for lively 3 Lowestoft & Waveney Business Awards 12 EDF Energy signs up to Young Chamber Plus reading as all of them, no matter the 4 New post-16 review chair scheme sectors they come from, have strong 5 Devolution update 13 Rail franchise brings £1.45 billion investment stories to tell. 6 Time for business women to get agile 14-15 New chamber members 7 Closing the gender gap 16 New Lowestoft & Waveney chair revealed Sarah Howard MBE 8 Chamber network lunch 17 New chair for Greater Chamber President 9 Inside Lowestoft & Waveney Business awards 18 Ryder Cup status for chamber member Suffolk Chamber of Commerce 10-11 The Chamber Voice interview: John 19 Give your company the ‘Social Edge’ Dugmore speaks with Peter Aldous 20 Two national awards for member

South Kiln, Chamber Patrons Felaw Maltings 42 Felaw Street, Ipswich IP2 8SQ Tel: 01473 680600 Fax: 01473 603888 Email: [email protected] Web: www.suffolkchamber.co.uk Advertising: [email protected] Design: Features Design, Archant Printed by: Stephens & George Cover pictures: David Garrad and Sarah Lucy

2 ChamberVoice Winter 2017 www.suffolkchamber.co.uk Tel. 01473 680600 Chamber News

The winners and highly Suffolk Chamber in commended finalists: Apprentice of the Year Award Sponsored by: Peter Aldous MP for Lowestoft & Waveney Lowestoft & Waveney Winner: Jed Levett, Access Community Trust Highly Commended: Sam Hubbard, Hoseasons Holidays

Business of the Year Award Business Awards Sponsored by: Suffolk Chamber of Commerce in Lowestoft & Waveney Winner: Scenic Projects Ltd

Business Person of the Year Award Sponsored by: Lowestoft Rising Winner: Alicia Haynes, Mary Moppins Ltd Highly Commended: Martin Murkett, Tick Solutions Ltd

Commitment to Skills & People Development Award Sponsored by: Lowestoft College Winner: Ivy House Country Hotel Highly Commended: CODE Hair Consultants

Community Pride Award Sponsored by: Waveney Norse Winners: Sir John Leman High School Highly Commended: Julian Claxton Photography

Enterprise in Education Award Sponsored by: Sizewell C Winner: Bungay High School Highly Commended: Ormiston Denes Academy

Excellence in Customer Service Award (1-10) Sponsored by: Lowestoft Vision Winner: Rosie’s Beauticians & Rosie’s Spa Day Highly Commended: CODE Hair Consultants Runner Up: Country Chiropractics

Excellence in Customer Service Award (11 +) Sponsored by: Essex & Suffolk Water Winner: Mary Moppins Ltd Credit: Michaela Hobbs of Ferini Media Highly Commended: Palmers Department Store All our winners! Family Business of the Year Award ocal businesses gathered in November commented: “Our awards allow us to come Sponsored by: Pleasurewood Hills Family 2016 to celebrate outstanding individual together to celebrate and recognise the Theme Park Land group business achievements at the entrepreneurism and excellence within our Winner: Palmers Department Store annual Suffolk Chamber of Commerce in county and in particular here in Lowestoft & Highly Commended: Coes Menswear Lowestoft Lowestoft & Waveney Business Awards. Waveney. They also enable businesses in our The stunning sold-out ceremony, which took region to show their support for each other by Growing Business Award Sponsored by: Associated British Ports place at Ivy House Country Hotel in Lowestoft, sponsoring awards. Lowestoft celebrated 14 awards – from Apprentice of the “It is truly magnificent to see so many Winner: Scenic Projects Ltd Year to Business of the Year. businesses showcasing their skills, talent and Highly Commended: P J Gillman Jewellers Over 200 local businesses and special guests success. We thank all businesses that have taken enjoyed a bucks fizz reception and three course part and congratulations to everyone and we Local Tourism Award - incorporating meal with welcome entertainment from soul look forward to a prosperous 2017.” Culture / Hospitality / Leisure Award vocalist Douglas Brown of Quirk Bespoke John Dugmore, chief executive of Suffolk Sponsored by: Waveney District Council Events before the awards ceremony Chamber of Commerce said: “Every year there Winner: Lowestoft Water Taxi commenced, expertly compered by Chris Bailey. are more entries and more difficult decisions for Highly Commended: Shish Mezze Bar & Restaurant

James Reeder, local businessman for over 30 the judges to make – which is a good thing in Most Promising New Business Award years and immediate past chair of Suffolk my book. Suffolk Chamber in Lowestoft & Sponsored by: Lovewell Blake Chamber of Commerce in Lowestoft & Waveney is a vital and go-ahead part of our Winner: Miss Bonny & Calico Jacks Waveney was given the Lifetime Achievement chamber family.” Highly Commended: Bed Down Glamping award, sponsored by Archant, for his contribution Pictures of some of the winners can be found and commitment to the local community. on page nine of this issue of Chamber Voice. Recognition of Lifetime Alicia Haynes of Mary Moppins scooped Later this year it is the 10th anniversary of Achievement Award Excellence in Customer Service 11+ employees hosting our annual Suffolk Chamber of Sponsored by: Archant and the prestigious Business Person of the Year, Commerce in Lowestoft & Waveney Business Recognised: James Reeder

and the event culminated with Scenic Projects Awards and the team are already thinking about Young Entrepreneur of the Year Award not only scooping the Growing Business Award how we can make the event even bigger and Sponsored by: Ivy House Country Hotel but also being recognised as Business of the more prestigious. Winner: Millie Rose Stammers - Millie Rose Hair Year 2016. If you would like to be involved then please & Beauty, Industry Hair and Beauty Academy Jules Shorrock, chair of the Suffolk Chamber contact Michelle Gardner, events manager at Highly Commended: Rosie Kefford - Rosie’s of Commerce in Lowestoft & Waveney [email protected] Beauticians and Rosie’s Spa Day

www.suffolkchamber.co.uk Tel. 01473 680600 ChamberVoice Winter 2017 3 Chamber News

A14 campaign Suffolk Chamber – evidence being gathered member named as for RIS2 bid post-16 review chairman Partners in the Suffolk Chamber of Commerce-led No More A14 Delays in Suffolk campaign are building up evidence to prove the need for he immediate past president of improvements along the route’s twelve Suffolk Chamber of Commerce, Dr. ‘pinch points’. Attendees at the latest TPeter Funnell, has been appointed campaign Strategy Board, now chaired as the independent chair of the New by MP, heard how Suffolk Anglia Post-16 Area Review Steering County Council’s Strategic Planning and Group. The review will assess local Infrastructure Framework (SPIF) is being economic and education needs and the developed to help the county get the implications for post-16 education and infrastructure it needs in the future. training provision in Norfolk and Suffolk to This framework will provide the long make sure that college education meets term context for the local economy’s the needs of learners and employers. growth and so will provide important The work, which is part of a national evidence in supporting the campaign. review process, will be led by a steering The meeting also heard from a senior group made up of New Anglia Local civil servant from the Department for Enterprise Partnership, Norfolk and Transport (DfT) who outlined the Suffolk County Councils and process for bids such as that to improve representatives from post-16 education the A14 to be submitted for the and training providers. The review began second round of the Government’s its work at the end of last year. Dr Peter Road Investment Strategy (RIS2). Funnell said: “The Area Review process is Nick Burfield, policy director at Suffolk demanding but it also offers real potential Chamber, said: “Both the SPIF and the to deliver positive benefits to learners and input from the DfT will be very helpful in address existing and future skills shortages. ensuring the campaign provides the right “I look forward to working with national evidence at the right time to maximise and local colleagues on this important our chances of the A14 being included initiative.” John Dugmore, chief executive in RIS2.” Suffolk Chamber is continuing of Suffolk Chamber welcomed the to encourage local businesses and appointment, saying: “Peter brings both residents to share their own experiences his experience and a sharp analysis to this of A14 delays by uploading them to the vitally important initiative. By getting our campaign’ s Twitter (@ approach to post-16 education and NoMoreA14Delays) and Facebook (@ training right, local businesses will be NoMoreA14Delays) accounts. better placed to recruit workers with the right skills and aptitudes to ensure their longer-term success.”

one of the UK’s top five tech clusters by 2020. Techeast launches The TechEast Embassy is based at Crown Place, four minutes’ walk from Liverpool Street station. London Embassy Companies that become TechEast members will be able to book a meeting room or drop in to use hot desks as part of and membership their London business development plans. Neil Miles, chief executive of Inasight and TechEast, the organisation formed to chairman of TechEast said: “The provision of a accelerate the expansion of the East of London facility was the top requirement when England’s technology cluster and a subsidiary we polled potential members and we made it of Suffolk Chamber of Commerce, has one of our six manifesto pledges at the opened an ‘embassy’ in London and started a TechEast launch in April last year.” drive for members. TechEast brings together John Dugmore, chief executive of Suffolk leading technology-sector businesses from the Chamber added: “These are exciting times for The Techeast office in London East of England, to speak with one voice that Suffolk’s high tech businesses and the role of is heard across the UK and around the world. TechEast is to keep the momentum going so visibility, networking and business development The organisation aims to help create 5,000 that the sector reaches its full potential.” The activities. For more information on the jobs, generate an extra £650 million gross value membership scheme includes opportunities for Embassy, membership and the manifesto, go to added of economic growth in the east and be member companies to increase their brand www.techeast.com.

4 ChamberVoice Winter 2017 www.suffolkchamber.co.uk Tel. 01473 680600 Chamber News

A Suffolk Chamber-hosted event looking at devolution Devolution update Suffolk Chamber of Commerce has reacted with disappointment at the Government’ s decision not to proceed with the Norfolk and Suffolk devolution ‘deal’. Sajid Javid, secretary of state for communities and local government, Lord Bridges meeting with Suffolk Chamber members confirmed in late November that the deal was off the table as a number of Norfolk councils voted not to participate. By contrast all Suffolk councils supported participating in the arrangement. Suffolk businesses At the time, Dr.Peter Funnell, immediate past president of Suffolk Chamber said: “The Chamber is in favour in principle of devolution of powers and decision-making get chance to quiz from Whitehall to the regions. “We were in favour of the Norfolk/ Suffolk deal because it would have resulted in £750 million of new funding to improve our infrastructure, £130 Brexit minister million for new homes, and extra powers over transport and skills. We are his was a very open and productive Enterprise Partnership representatives as well as ready to work with Suffolk County “ meeting, allowing some of Suffolk’s about a dozen food company bosses. Council, other public sector partners, Tleading employers in the food, drink and Lord Bridges heard from local businesses on New Anglia Local Enterprise Partnership agriculture sectors to openly talk about the what they need to manage the transition and and the wider business community to opportunities and challenges surrounding the seize the opportunities to boost international explore the opportunities for a country’s withdrawal from the European Union. trade. He said: “There is a strong spirit of Suffolk-only deal.” “This type of high level dialogue is really enterprise in the East of England where 86,000 Suffolk Chamber had earlier co-hosted welcome as it allows us to better represent small businesses have set up since 2010. We’re with New Anglia LEP two business Suffolk PLC as the UK economically repositions working to make sure that spirit is fostered and consultations on the proposals – one in itself – with a strategic emphasis on boosting build a new relationship with the EU that works Bury St. Edmunds and one in Ipswich – at our exporting efforts.” Stephen Britt, board for businesses in Suffolk.” John Dugmore, Suffolk which there was broad support for member of Suffolk Chamber of Commerce, was Chamber chief executive added: “We welcome devolution. Current Suffolk Chamber speaking at the end of a meeting, hosted by the fact that Lord Bridges took time out of his president, Sarah Howard MBE added: Suffolk Chamber. It was attended by Lord busy schedule to meet with us and our “We’d like to see a new devolution deal Bridges of Headley MBE, the parliamentary members. We hope to build on this meeting by for Suffolk alone and we look forward to under secretary of state at the Department for helping to shape the Government’s approach to being involved should discussions Exiting the European Union, who met with these vital market sectors within the Suffolk progress in the right direction.” Suffolk Chamber and New Anglia Local economy.”

and ready to succeed. For this event, Suffolk Suffolk Chamber helps Chamber International used its influence to British exporters break bring together in one place key specialists from a number of different disciplines to offer into Russian market acomprehensive overview of what it takes to make it in Russia.” Suffolk Chamber International hosted an He added: “We were particularly delighted to opportunity for companies interested in breaking be joined at the event by David Cant from into the open Russian market. Albion Overseas Ltd. David has worked with Jim Fanshawe, Suffolk Chamber International’s Russia since the 1980s and is fluent in the David Cant speaking at Suffolk Chamber’s manager said: “One of Suffolk Chamber’s four language. David is also an accredited Adventace international Russia event key business themes is promoting international sales trainer and highly experienced Russia trade. This Doing Business in Russia event is yet Cultural Trainer.“ meetings with these experts to discuss how they another example as to how we can bring David was joined by other specialists from could reach their export potential in the Russian together specific country experts with Blackthorne International Transport, Albion market. For more information about Suffolk businesses in the county who are looking to Overseas, RBCC and CTMS Travel. Delegates Chamber International please contact Rachel enter into new markets so that they are primed took full advantage of the opportunity to have Cornes [email protected] www.suffolkchamber.co.uk Tel. 01473 680600 ChamberVoice Winter 2017 5 Chamber News

Suffolk Business Women: “time for us to get agile!” “With these targets, we aim to encourage the transformation of businesses across our county to more effectively use the immense skills and talents of all our workforce,” Ginny Idehen, chair of Suffolk Business Women, which is part of Suffolk Chamber of Commerce, was speaking at the recent launch of the organisation’ s objectives. Using data that shows the county lags

behind the rest of the country with Picture: Nigel Brown female executives occupying only 14% Winners and sponsors of the BME Business Awards at the University of Suffolk of board positions (Eastern Daily Press Research 2016) and an average pay gap of £8,000 per year in full time salaries paid to men compared to women (New Anglia LEP Economic Equality report Suffolk Chamber backs 2013), the organisation believes the solution is to be found in changing how firms in all sectors treat their staff. BME Business Awards Suffolk Business Womens’ objectives  Increase female participation on all rganised by the Bangladeshi Support According to John Dugmore, chief executive of Suffolk boards from 14% (2016) to Centre and the University of Suffolk, Suffolk Chamber of Commerce: “Because of our 25% (2020) Othe 2016 Suffolk Black and Minority long experience in backing Suffolk businesses and  Increase female participation on Ethnic (BME) Business Awards was the first such our members in particular, Suffolk Chamber Suffolk Chamber boards to 20% event to take place in the county. Over 100 knows that a diverse economic base is inherently (2017) people attended the ceremony and were a good thing. Diversity certainly means that the  Increase the number of women in the treated to an evening of great food, economic risk is spread. Crucially, it also means Suffolk 100 list of business influencers entertainment and empowering business stories. the positive and active sharing of new ways of to a minimum of 20 (by 2018) Suffolk Chamber of Commerce sponsored the viewing market opportunities and new ways of  Highlight how Suffolk businesses can Businessperson of the Year award which was working, fusing together new approaches and become more agile and promote won by Mac Khan of Staines & Co. creating new products and services.” agility and good employers  Identify mentoring and training opportunities for leadership among Suffolk Business Women members Take the scenic route Ginny continued: “Agility is more than ‘just’ providing roles that fit around The New Anglia Growth Hub recently helped women with children. Lowestoft-based theatre set makers Scenic “It is about re-working how a business Projects to secure vital investment and move to operates so that all employees have the a new, larger site with funding from the New chance to contribute fully, and that a Anglia Local Enterprise Partnership’s Growing business grows economically because Business Fund. they have a commited and motivated Nick Garrod, the company’s managing workforce.” To encourage and promote director explained: “Our business plan has agility in business, Suffolk Business always been to operate from one site to help Women – which has a membership of improve quality and efficiency. But we needed over 1,400 – will be launching a additional commercial space to enable us to add promotional campaign including a other services such as scenic costumes, props mentoring and training action plan later and storage within the entertainment industry.” this year. The New Anglia Growth Hub helped the For more information about Suffolk business to secure an £80,000 grant from the Business Women, go to: https://www. Growing Business Fund to help the company suffolkchamber.co.uk/events-networking/ expand. The grant, together with the company’s If you’re growing your business, ask us about suffolk-business-women/ or email sbw@ own funds, was used to move the business to grants to help with the costs of expansion. For suffolkchamber.co.uk the new site, which will create additional jobs. more information, please call 0300 333 6536 or The stage is set. email [email protected]

6 ChamberVoice Winter 2017 www.suffolkchamber.co.uk Tel. 01473 680600 Chamber News Closing the gender gap

(left to right) Ginny Idehen, Jules Shorrock and Catherine Johnson. Picture: Archant

t is a positive sign of the times that in recent Voluntary targets cosmopolitan areas of the country if they don’t months a number of women have taken on “The figures are an improvement on last year get the same opportunities in Suffolk.” Iprominent roles in the Suffolk business and we are seeing more businesses across community. Suffolk putting in place voluntary targets and Agile businesses Late last year Catherine Johnson, a partner at strategies aimed at encouraging the recruitment All three agree that a key step to enabling law firm Birketts, became chair of Suffolk Chamber and promotion of women,” she said. women to compete on a level playing field is for of Commerce in Greater Ipswich and Jules Catherine believes voluntary targets are an more businesses to offer flexible working Shorrock, managing director of Citrus Security important tool in this area and points to the arrangements, so they can work around their Shredding, took up the chair at Suffolk Chamber of strides being made nationally where voluntary family commitments, whether it be caring for Commerce in Lowestoft & Waveney – the first targets have been credited with doubling the elderly parents or bringing up children. woman to hold the position since the organisation number of women in senior positions within “The elephant in the room is that women was formed over 100 years ago. FTSE 100 companies who choose to, have to take time off work to At the same time, Suffolk Business Women, Ginny agrees the situation is improving and have children,” said Catherine. “So, we do need also part of Suffolk Chamber of Commerce, has recounts her experience of going to a Suffolk some flexibility.” Ginny Idehen, the manager at Suffolk Mind’s business networking event around 20 years ago And it’s not just women who benefit from Quay Place centre in Ipswich, as its chair. where she was the only woman in the room. flexible working, says Ginny. “Increasingly, men “Today, the proportion of women is likely to be want to spend more time with their children or More work required around 50% - that’s a good sign,” she said. to have flexibility to care for parents,” she said. While there is a lot of good news around equal Ginny thinks one factor that holds women “It’s about making work more inclusive for opportunities in the region, all three agree more back in the workplace is their reluctance to put everyone. If Suffolk businesses were to be more work is required. themselves forward when opportunities arise. agile in the way they work – it would enable This is borne out by the findings from the She says part of the role of Suffolk Business them to get the best out of everyone.” latest Suffolk Ltd report - an analysis of the Women is to inspire women by highlighting For more information about Suffolk Business county’s 100 largest independent companies female role models and the good work they do. Women, go to: https://www.suffolkchamber. published annually by business advisors Grant And, says Jules, the opening up of career co.uk/events-networking/suffolk-business- Thornton and Birketts. opportunities for women isn’t just something women or email [email protected] Key findings from the 2016 report are that that should concern women. It’s in the interest 20% (81) of the 415 directors in Suffolk Ltd are of the whole Suffolk business community. women and that over half of the top 100 She said: “We are seeing a high number of companies (53) have no women directors at all. really talented women going through the Despite the low numbers of women in senior University of Suffolk - but what are they A longer version of this article first appeared positions across the leading businesses in Suffolk, thinking? Where are they going to go? The in Business East Monthly in December 2016. Catherine says there are reasons for optimism. chances are they will be attracted to more www.suffolkchamber.co.uk Tel. 01473 680600 ChamberVoice Winter 2017 7 Chamber Events Suffolk Chamber of Commerce in Lowestoft & Waveney Business Awards 2016 Ivy House Country Hotel, Lowestoft Photos: Michaela Hobbs (Ferini Media)

Winners and sponsors 2016 Awards

(l) Andrew Papworth – Archant, Lowestoft Journal (m) James Reeder – Immediate Past Chairman Suffolk (l) Millie Rose Stammers – Millie Rose Hair & Beauty and Chamber of Commerce in Lowestoft & Waveney Industry Hair and Beauty Academy (l) Vicky Howes – Miss Bonny & Calico Jacks (r) Geoff Maddison – Archant (r) Dr Adrian Parton MBE – Ivy House Country Hotel (r) Claire Trudgill – Lovewell Blake

(l) John Dugmore - Suffolk Chamber of Commerce, (ml) Jules Shorrock - chair of Suffolk Chamber of Com- merce in Lowestoft & Waveney, (mr) Nick Garrod - (l) Jed Levett – Access Community Trust (l) Phil Aves – Lowestoft Rising Scenic Projects, (r) Martin Wilson - Scenic Projects (r) Peter Aldous MP for Lowestoft & Waveney (r) Alicia Haynes – Mary Moppins Ltd

(l) David Howard – Palmers Department Store (m) Sarah Walker – Pleasurewood Hills Family Theme Park (l) Ian Gregory – Waveney Norse (l) Matthew Bailey – Bungay High School (r) Susan Patterson – Palmers Department Store (r) Jeremy Rowe - Sir John Leman High School (r) Nicola Corbett – EDF Energy Sizewell C

This is a selection of pictures from this prestigious event. For a full list of winners, please go to page 3 of this issue of Chamber Voice or to: www.suffolkchamber.co.uk/lowestoft-and-waveney/awards/awards-winners/2016/ www.suffolkchamber.co.uk Tel. 01473 680600 ChamberVoice Winter 2017 9 Chamber Feature The Chamber Voice interview: Peter Aldous MP In the latest of our series of interviews with the county’s most influential people, Suffolk Chamber of Commerce chief executive John Dugmore puts the questions to Peter Aldous, MP for Waveney

eeting up with Peter Aldous is always a Picture: Archant pleasure. He is the very epitome of MSuffolk values: thoughtful, industrious and slightly understated. This should come as no surprise as the MP for Waveney was born in Ipswich and has lived in the county all his life. A partner in the family-owned arable and pig farm in north Suffolk, he worked for 27 years as a chartered surveyor before being elected in 2010. Peter believes it is these values that will stand the local business community in good stead regardless of major events, including the UK’s withdrawal from the European Union. “In their understated and dogged way I anticipate that the Suffolk business community will ‘just get on with it’, whilst at the same time letting us politicians know what they need for their businesses to thrive,” he suggests. “Suffolk people and the way of life make the county a very good place to do business, which can be improved further by the right investment in skills and infrastructure. “One of my first memories on joining the Suffolk Chamber of Commerce back in the late 1980s was their organisation of a trade delegation to the Far East. It is this outward looking and proven track record which will be crucial in forging new alliances around the world.” He remains a big supporter of the organisation. “It certainly punches above its weight. If Suffolk Chamber of Commerce did not exist, it would have to be invented. There are a number of other business groups that do great work in representing their members, but what the Suffolk Chamber does is provide a Peter Aldous and campaigners at Oulton Broad North Railway Station strategic overview and a comprehensive network of local chambers in touch with their way of working between Government and important milestone. I now chair the steering local businesses.” business is one where public economic group, on which Suffolk Chamber is Peter Aldous believes that the Government investment into an area meets the specific and represented, that works with the scheme’s as a whole is becoming better at calibrating the evidenced needs of local businesses and has project managers to right type of relationship between local been rigorously scrutinised. ensure that the bridge is built on time and on chambers and their wider business communities. “I believe in team work, working with colleagues budget and in a manner that secures the “In the past such decisions at times have been in Parliament, local businesses, local government maximum benefit for the town’s economy.” made on a ‘Westminster knows best’ basis. The and charities and the voluntary sector to secure Which brings us onto Suffolk Chamber’s New Anglia Local Enterprise Partnership, in investment for Waveney and Suffolk.” many lobbying campaigns, aimed at ensuring that which the Suffolk Chamber plays an important Can he give any recent examples where this the county has the right infrastructure and skills role, puts in place a new relationship which we collaborative approach has proven its worth? to ‘lock-in’ its future prosperity and continue now need to develop. There is a need for “The Lowestoft and Great Yarmouth contributing to the whole country’s success. greater capacity to secure further much needed Enterprise Zone has been a major success and How would Peter summarise the current investment, public accountability and a system has acted as a catalyst in attracting millions of situation? “Good work has been done on both where success and a proven track record is pounds of private investment into the area. issues, including the significant recent recognised and rewarded.” Helping to secure Government funding for improvements in school performance and the Quite simply for him, the most productive Lowestoft’s much needed third crossing was an enormous investment in the region’s rail

10 ChamberVoice Winter 2017 www.suffolkchamber.co.uk Tel. 01473 680600 Chamber gggggggggggFeature Credit: David Garrad

Peter Aldous during his Chamber Voice interview

network which was announced on the award of section of the A14 between Huntingdon and to bring forward a bespoke devolution deal for the new franchise to Greater Anglia. Cambridge was not tolled and closer to home Suffolk, which sets out a clear vision of the “However much more is needed on both your local knowledge and determination difference that the deal can make for the county, fronts. It is important that business is fully ensured that we were able to secure much speeds up decision-making on major involved in both schools and skills and this is an needed improvements to the level crossing at infrastructure projects and addresses the public issue that Lowestoft Rising is addressing locally. Oulton Broad North Railway Station; a scepticism of the concept of an elected mayor if “With roads, railways and broadband it is bottleneck on the road network where this remains a pre-requisite for securing a deal.” necessary to think strategically and to identify considerable congestion builds up when the So Peter Aldous is confident that with the and address ‘bottlenecks’. My role is twofold; as barriers are down.” right relationships in place, Suffolk is on the cusp a partner in working up local solutions and as an But surely the demise of the Norfolk and of further economic prosperity and wider social advocate in Westminster to promote Waveney Suffolk devolution arrangements has dealt a blow wellbeing. Comparing the county to a and Suffolk and to secure government funding to more local control over decision-making and Newmarket thoroughbred racehorse, he sums where it is needed.” to our reputation at Government level? up this time of opportunity as “the role of Once again he singles out Suffolk Chamber as Peter is having none of that. national and local government and political being a key catalyst in getting such strategic “Local business did a great job in promoting leaders, supported by business, is to be a better issues fully onto the agenda. “Regionally you the proposal and for keeping it on the rails for as racehorse trainer so that we are better placed played a lead role in ensuring that the new long as they did. We now have the opportunity to win the big prizes in the top races!” www.suffolkchamber.co.uk Tel. 01473 680600 ChamberVoice Winter 2017 11 Chamber Patrons EDF Energy signs up to Suffolk Chamber of Commerce’s Young Chamber Plus scheme

DF Energy, one of Suffolk’s leading employers, has become the latest Eorganisation to sign up as a patron of an innovative scheme run by the leading business body in the county, aimed at bridging the gap between the world of education and the world of work. During the first-ever Suffolk Festival of Learning, held at the University of Suffolk, EDF Energy became the energy sector patron of the Young Chamber scheme, run by Suffolk Chamber of Commerce. EDF Energy, which operates Sizewell B power station and is looking to build and run Sizewell C, has a very strong track record in helping the county’s students prepare for the world of work. Jim Crawford, EDF Energy’s project development director for Sizewell C, said: “The Young Chamber programme gives us an opportunity to engage with more secondary schools that already recognise the value of bridging the gap between businesses and the education sector in Suffolk. This is a year-long commitment which will form part of a range of activities and initiatives we will be involved in to help develop Suffolk’s talent over the years to come.” According to Suffolk Chamber’s Ashleigh Seymour-Rutherford: “We have a longstanding and mutually supportive relationship with EDF Energy. They are one of Suffolk Chamber’s patrons and we are working with them on our Sizewell C supply chain website aimed at ensuring that as many local firms as possible secure contracts to help in the construction of the new station.” Young Chamber patrons are able to participate in a number of additional products Ashleigh Seymour-Rutherford announces EDF Energy patronage from the Chamber’s suite of services including sector specific events, business/education Suffolk Chamber is in discussions with other becoming Young Chamber patrons should business leaders’ dinners and delivering specific businesses about becoming patrons in other contact Ashleigh Seymour-Rutherford on employability events into Suffolk schools. market sectors. Businesses interested in (01473) 694807.

During this period the company has hosted businesses, including those in the services Sizing up Sizewell nearly two dozen public exhibitions in the sector, can maximise the opportunities available parishes around the proposed site. and build this into their business plans. C proposals John Dugmore, chief executive of Suffolk “Secondly, please sign up to our Sizewell C Chamber of Commerce, said: “We believe Supply Chain website (www. Readers of this edition of Chamber Voice may that there are considerable opportunities for sizewellcsupplychain.co.uk) to register your still have time to respond to EDF Energy’s the local business community both during the company’s interest in providing goods and deadline for its Stage 2 Consultation – but proposed Sizewell C station’s construction services to the project. Remember, 80% of only if they’re quick! and once it is operational. the work in building and running a nuclear Launched on November 23 last year, the “But it is important that the business power station comes from ‘non-nuclear’ eight-week consultation into the company’s community now does two things. Firstly, work businesses.” plans to build another power station at Sizewell with us and owners EDF Energy to better For more information on the Stage 2 on the Suffolk coast closes on February 3. shape key aspects of the proposal so that local Consultation go to www.sizewellc.co.uk

12 ChamberVoice Winter 2017 www.suffolkchamber.co.uk Tel. 01473 680600 Chamber Patrons New Greater Anglia franchise brings £1.4 billion investment in complete fleet replacement

uffolk Chamber of Commerce patron trains will be significantly more reliable than the Ipswich station is nearly complete, some Greater Anglia, the train operator which ones they replace. additional trains (to add extra peak time Sruns services across the region, including There is also major investment in stations and capacity) are due in service next summer, the along the Great Eastern Main Line (GEML) to maintenance depots; in ticket vending machines launch of automatic delay repay compensation is and from London, has now begun its new nine (for every station); in customer information planned by spring 2017, and both the full year franchise, which will lead to a (again, new systems for every station); in smart refurbishment of 30 Class 321 units and the transformation for rail travel in East Anglia. ticketing; in car parking, cycle parking and extension of on-board wi-fi are underway. The centrepiece of the plans is the total integrated transport arrangements; in simpler The intercity carriages in use on the GEML renewal of the train fleet, with 1,043 new customer compensation; in Community Rail have just benefitted from a major refresh carriages replacing 937 existing carriages during Partnerships and Customer Experience and including the installation of power sockets, new 2019/2020, to not just transform the journey Community Funds. lighting and new toilets, in a project completed experience, but also markedly increase seating There will be a Stakeholder Advisory Board ahead of schedule in September 2016. capacity (including over 50% more seats into and a continuation of the operator’s proactive Meanwhile, the operator is investing an London in the morning peak); improve service approach to developing East Anglia’s railways to additional £5 million in initiatives to improve the frequency on a number of lines; reduce journey meet the justifiably ever-rising expectations of reliability of its current trains, with work also times and raise performance standards. customers, communities and stakeholders. Plus, underway with Network Rail to secure There are 665 carriages being built by consistent with the pivotal role of employees, improvements in infrastructure reliability. It all Bombardier in Derby and 378 by Stadler in there is major investment in training and adds up to a period of substantial investment Switzerland. All routes across Suffolk will see an development, as well as an innovation academy and improvement to deliver real positive change increase in capacity, whilst the Ipswich to and fund that will help to tap in to employees’ in rail services for customers and communities in Peterborough line will also see a more frequent, ideas about how to keep making things better the East of England. hourly, service. On average, journey times across for customers. For more information go to www. the region will reduce by 10% and the new In the short term, the major upgrade for greateranglia.co.uk

www.suffolkchamber.co.uk Tel. 01473 680600 ChamberVoice Winter 2017 13 Chamber Membership New members l ABSSoftware Ltd 07985 571670 [email protected] www.abssoftware.co.uk Mr Patrick Kenlock Managing director ABSSoftware specialises in creating workflow aligned business solutions on the FileMaker platform that increase efficiency by integrating your existing systems, and best practice to produce a streamlined data driven mobile and Desktop application. l A-Plan Insurance 01284 771720 burystedmunds@ aplan.co.uk www.aplan.co.uk/ burystedmunds Mr Daniel Skippins Branch manager Insurance broker. Kevin Froggatt, Amanda Bloomfield, David Eaton at the Suffolk Chamber of Commerce in Bury St Edmunds l AQR Coaching Networking Breakfast held at The Northgate Hotel, Bar and Restaurant in Bury St Edmunds. Picture: David Garrad 07786 336313 [email protected] providing employers and Mr Steve Tubby Dallmer manufactures high range of innovative energy www.aqrcoaching.co.uk employees for various General manager specification shower and roof technologies, energy supply Mr Pete Wortley domestic duties including Cloud Computer Services drains. Working closely with and energy services. Senior partner childcare and elderly care. provides a fully comprehensive OEM’s wholesalers and Business transformation and range of IT support services to architects. l Focus Telemarketing organisational cultural change. l CGM Global a diverse range of businesses 07760 448334 Executive coaching and Supplies Ltd and organisations, ranging l Felixstowe Trade [email protected] mental toughness 01394 421235 from sole traders through to and Enterprise College Mrs Jacqueline Webb development. [email protected] large global companies, across 01394 458500 A personal effective way to www.cgmglobal.co.uk Norfolk and Suffolk. [email protected] incorporate telemarketing, lead l Avanti Gas Ltd Mr Charles Morgans www.felixstowe-ac.co.uk generation and data cleansing 0808 208 0000 Managing director l Cross Country Mrs Belinda Jarvis into your SME business. [email protected] CGM global supplies was Carriers Ltd Commercial director www.avantigas.com formed to give our customers 01284 810739 Specialists in shipping and l Full Mix Marketing Mr Mark Gallant the chance to purchase [email protected] logistics adding value through 01603 446227 Area sales manager factory original equipment www.xcountryltd.co.uk training, consultancy and [email protected] AvantiGas deliver clean and and spares at very Mr Tim Goodman professional qualifications. www.fullmixmarketing.co.uk efficient LPG to homes across competitive prices. Sales manager Mrs Sarah West Scotland, England and Wales. Cross Country Carriers provide l Flagship Group Managing director l Claremont Pier Ltd single and multi-pallet 0845 258 6153 Full service marketing agency l Bungay High School 01502 573533 distribution throughout the UK [email protected] delivering strategic, digital and 01986 892140 claremontpier@ as well as quarter and half www.flagship-group.co.uk offline marketing to Norfolk [email protected] btinternet.com pallet deliveries. We can Mr Sam Greenacre and Suffolk businesses. www.bungayhigh.co.uk www.claremontpier.co.uk deliver throughout the UK on Head of Communications Mr Clinton Gillett Miss Hannah Marks either a next day or two to Housing association with l Greenman Assistant head teacher Events co-ordinator three day delivery. Immediate 22,000 homes across the Embroidery Opportunity, aspiration and Leisure pier, arcade, roller rink, responses are also available east of England. & Print excellence for all. Rocksalt & Nemos’ for urgent cases. 01473 680849 restaurants, aquarium, live l Flow Energy [email protected] l Care.Expert music and more. l Dallmer Ltd 020 3137 4466 www.greenmanep.com 01473 254479 01787 248244 samantha.mee@flowgroup. Mr Adam Scott [email protected] l Cloud Computer wayne.hailstone uk.com Owner www.care.expert Services Ltd @dallmer.com www.flowgroup.uk.com Embroidery and print - Mrs Cilla Steed 01502 588400 www.dallmer.com/en Mr Nigel Canham specialising in workwear, Owner/manager [email protected] Mr Wayne Hailstone Group CFO schoolwear, sportswear and Online agency linking/ www.cloud-cs.com UK General manager Flowgroup plc provides a martial arts apparel.

14 ChamberVoice Winter 2017 www.suffolkchamber.co.uk Tel. 01473 680600 Chamber Membership

For further information about Chamber membership contact 01473 680600 or [email protected]

June Davenport, Polly Goddard, David Verney at the Suffolk Chamber of Commerce September Networking Lunch, held at Finborough Hall, Stowmarket. Picture: David Garrad

l IP21 Limited l Kerrys Home bureau@nescab. school.org l The 01603 457008 Furnishings cabnet.org.uk Mr Christopher Graham Social Edge [email protected] 01502 528599 www.nesuffolkcab.org.uk Head of sixth form 01603 469516 www.ip21.co.uk [email protected] Mrs Janet John and careers [email protected] Mr Richard Jones www.kerrys.uk.com Chief executive Independent school, day and Mrs Sarah West Business relationship manager Mr Andrew Kerry Provider of free quality boarding. Managing director Intellectual property attorneys. Director assured advice on many Social media marketing Experts in protecting and Retail of home furniture and areas of law. l Seetec agency for Suffolk and enforcing technical, branding other related products. 01702 201070 Norfolk businesses. and design innovation. l ProcessFlows [email protected] l Kingsley 07974 958533 www.seetec.co.uk l Universal l Jackson Civil Healthcare Ltd [email protected] Mrs Jannine Fage Removals Ltd Engineering Group Ltd 01502 502702 www.processflows.co.uk Centre manager 01473 226600 01473 238300 info@kingsley Mr James Gibbons Employment and training. email@universal [email protected] healthcare.co.uk Solution sales consultant removals.com www.jackson-civils.co.uk www.kingsley Consultancy specialising in l Skylight Electrical www.universal Mr Keven Stobbs healthcare.co.uk improving operational & Lighting Ltd removals.com Project director Mr Wasantha Darshana performance through business 01359 252303 Mr Nigel Hubert Medium sized civil engineering IT and marketing director process analysis and delivering alpha@skylight-electrical. Director company based in Ipswich Care home provider. automated software solutions. co.uk International removals and and with national coverage. Mr James McMahon European removals, movers l LAC Services l Purple Cargo Ltd Director and storers, freight forwarding, l Joules Resource East Anglia Ltd 01394 337111 Exporter of electrical logistics, transport. Management Ltd 08081 476864 [email protected] installation equipment. 01953 459745 [email protected] www.purplecargo.co.uk l Verse Facilities jonathan@joulesresource www.lacservices.co.uk Mrs Demi Duran l Sorrento Kitchens Management Ltd management.co.uk Mr Darren Carter Director 01502 273117 01284 757422 www.joulesresource Managing director Freight forwarder, logistics info@sorrento [email protected] management.co.uk Energy surveys for supplier. kitchens.co.uk www.versefm.co.uk Mr Jonathan Madden homeowners and tenants to www.sorrento Ms Jo Lardent Director achieve a higher rating energy l Royal kitchens.co.uk Director JRM delivers organisation performance certificate. Hospital School Mrs Nicola Laws Verse is the joint venture direction, strategic planning 01473 326273 Director facilities management and lean implementation l North East Suffolk cgraham@ Suppliers and installers of company with Forest Heath for business improvement Citizens Advice Bureau royalhospitalschool.org beautiful individual kitchens, District and St Edmundsbury and growth. 01502 518510 www.royalhospital including the Laura Ashley range. Borough Councils. www.suffolkchamber.co.uk Tel. 01473 680600 ChamberVoice Winter 2017 15 Local Chamber News James Reeder stands down as Lowestoft & Waveney chair

’ve been a local businessman for over 30 “ years. Looking back over the last four of Ithem, I can say - hand on heart - that I am more optimistic now than at any previous time about the prospects for Lowestoft & Waveney.” James Reeder was speaking during the week he stood down as chair of Suffolk Chamber of Commerce in Lowestoft & Waveney - a position he has held since 2012. A former Merchant Navy officer, partner in a family-run nursing home, and chief executive of a retail group of companies, James has been an important and influential figure in re-engineering the economic base and growing optimism within the town and its surrounding villages. His proudest achievement is: “Lowestoft Vision. I was part of the group that around seven years ago said we should set up a business improvement district to revitalise the town centre.” Jules Shorrock, the managing director of Citrus Security Shredding, has taken over from James. Jules said:: “We all owe a big debt of gratitude to James Reeder for his leadership as chair of Suffolk Chamber in Lowestoft & Waveney over the last four years. He’s been an absolute giant and is always working to benefit our community.” Her priorities for her time in office fall into two categories. Firstly, she aims to further deliver on the chamber’s manifesto commitments to drive forward economic development, make Lowestoft more accessible to business, grow the town’s night time economy, and enhance the local transport networks and infrastructure. Secondly, Jules wants to deepen Suffolk Chamber in Lowestoft & Waveney’s relationship with both its existing members and the wider business community. James Reeder - “we all owe a big debt of gratitude to him”

Mastering the ‘Vision’ for Bury St Edmunds businesses Suffolk Chamber of Commerce in Bury St Edmunds continues to work be addressed to ensure we can capitalise on our further economic with St Edmundsbury Borough Council to ensure that its Vision 2031 opportunities.” delivers the necessary sustainable economic and housing growth and Key issues identified in the draft Masterplan include improved links transport improvements to ‘lock-in’ the area’s prosperity for the future. between the older part of the town centre and the Arc, better The Masterplan for Vision 2031 is currently in a draft form. Options transportation between the centre and outer parts of the town, more are being looked at to address the key issues that will drive future investment in St Andrews Street and Tayfen Road, and an overall economic growth before a draft Masterplan is produced for comment upgrade in both parking facilities and road signage. throughout the spring and summer of this year. “This Masterplan is another key piece in the jigsaw that seeks to The final Masterplan will then be launched in the winter. lock in future growth and prosperity for the town. Suffolk Chamber in Matt Moss, chair of Suffolk Chamber in Bury St Edmunds, said: “I’m Bury St Edmunds is delighted with the progress being made and is pleased that St Edmundsbury has so openly engaged with us and the especially pleased at the level of partnership working going on to wider business community to nail down the specific issues that must achieve this outcome,” added Matt.

16 ChamberVoice Winter 2017 www.suffolkchamber.co.uk Tel. 01473 680600 Local Chamber News

“Two business Dave Muller hands over dynamos” join Suffolk Chamber in Haverhill at Suffolk Chamber in & District board The leading voice for the business community in Haverhill and the surrounding villages has boosted its Greater Ipswich board by recruiting two of the area’s leading businesspeople. Elaine Carr is the owner of Haverhill- fter five years at the helm, Dave Muller has based FlipFlop Marketing and has 30 stepped down as chair of Suffolk Chamber years’ worth of professional marketing Aof Commerce in Greater Ipswich. experience to offer the chamber. However, his commitment to the town and the Founded in 2002, FlipFlop Marketing area around it remains undiminished. specialises in helping SMEs to adopt a Dave recalls: “We wanted to establish a strong structured approach to their marketing. business voice for Ipswich and its hinterland, Elaine combines a strong analytical stretching from Hadleigh in the west, Woodbridge skill set with a process driven and highly in the north and Felixstowe in the east.” disciplined approach and has a track He believes that in five short years, Suffolk record of creating feasible, viable Chamber in Greater Ipswich and its partners marketing campaigns that deliver results. have made some major strides in achieving Lesley Whiting is a director at 1st these objectives – although there is still much Stop Recruitment. She first went into room for further improvements. recruitment in 1987, and started her As a previous principal of Suffolk New own company 13 years later. College and a visiting professor at the University 1st Stop Recruitment has a vision to of Suffolk, he has a particular passion about the be the best it can be, supporting clients links between learning and wealth creation. and candidates, and being honest every “The relationship between business and the step of the way. The company offers a area’s education sector is one of its great strengths. bespoke solution according to client “There is a mutual understanding between the requirements. More importantly, they two and a shared purpose that is not seen listen, advise and agree solutions. elsewhere.” Catherine Johnson is the new chair Paul Donno, chair of Suffolk of Suffolk Chamber of Commerce in Greater Chamber of Commerce in Haverhill & Ipswich. Catherine is a partner at Ipswich-based District welcomed Elaine and Lesley’s law firm Birketts LLP and specialises in employment appointment. law. Born in Ipswich, the town is of particular “With Elaine and Lesley we have importance to her. Following a period of study been fortunate enough to have and working in London, Catherine and her recruited to our board two business family returned to Ipswich in 2009. Catherine, dynamos, whose skills, experience and her husband James and son, Monty live in the knowledge of Haverhill and the villages town in the Christchurch Park area. Dave Muller - “charismatic leadership” around will add an extra and very “Ipswich is where I work and where I live and welcome energy and purpose to what so its future prosperity is very close to my heart. and charismatic leadership of Dave Muller. He we do here and what we offer the “I’m delighted to be the new chair of Suffolk will be the hardest act imaginable to follow, but business community.” Chamber in Greater Ipswich and look forward I’ve got a great team around me and I know to building on its achievements under the wise Ipswich and its surroundings are on the up!”

New board members of Suffolk Chamber in Newmarket & District The leading voice of the business community Sophie said: “I am delighted and honoured including the provision of relevant networking in Mildenhall, Newmarket and the villages to be joining the Suffolk Chamber in events. I have seen at first-hand how the surrounding them has been further Newmarket & District Board. Through my job ‘relationship’ between chamber and business strengthened with the confirmation that two as head of sales at the racecourse, I absolutely can enable the local economy and its highly experienced local businesspeople have support and understand the importance of communities to flourish and I look forward to joined its board. working closely with other businesses in the playing my part in helping us create more of Sophie Able, regional head of sales – east, town, making this a fantastic opportunity to be these such legacies in the future.” The Jockey Club, and Steve Elsom, area part of a committee that strives to develop Matthew Darroch-Thompson, chair of director, Lloyds Bank SME Banking - East and strengthen the surrounding business Suffolk Chamber in Newmarket & District, Anglia, were formally approved as board landscape. I look forward to getting started welcomed the two appointments. “Sophie members at a meeting of the board of Suffolk and hopefully adding to an already successful and Steve will greatly enhance and strengthen Chamber of Commerce in Newmarket & board.” our Board. Both have impeccable records in District. Steve explained that: “The chamber plays business and both are known for their Suffolk Chamber’s representation in an important role in supporting businesses, professionalism, hard work, business links and Newmarket & District makes it the largest both in its lobbying capacity and also by commercial awareness. We are delighted to business membership organisation in this part providing insight and guidance around the have them with us and we’ll benefit from their of Suffolk. multi-faceted aspects of running a business, experience.” www.suffolkchamber.co.uk Tel. 01473 680600 ChamberVoice Winter 2017 17 Chamber Member News

Kevin Froggatt of Andrew Dickson

Ransomes kit in action in Rio The year of the Chamber member playground? achieves Ryder Cup status

Kevin Froggatt, a director and uffolk Chamber member Ransomes than 40 items of course maintenance equipment independent financial adviser of Jacobsen, the Ipswich-based manufacturer to the 2016 Rio Olympics golf course. Suffolk Chamber member Sof golf course maintenance equipment, has Englishman Justin Rose won the first Olympic Andrew Dickson Ltd offers his signed an agreement to become an Official gold medal in golf in 112 years. views on the last 12 months Supplier to the 2018 Ryder Cup, which will take Alan Prickett, managing director, international place at the celebrated Le Golf National near at Ransomes Jacobsen, said: “The Ryder Cup is Last year was a ‘see-saw’ year for Versailles, Paris. As the existing exclusive one of the sporting world’s most revered and investment markets and really kept supplier of turf care equipment to Le Golf highly anticipated events. It will be a privilege to our business on its toes. The first National, the Ryder Cup will provide the play a role in preparing the course for the match quarter was full of doom and gloom, Suffolk-based company with a unique and helping to ensure that the highest standards mostly brought on by the fear opportunity to showcase its portfolio of of course preparation are applied for such a regarding a potential June Brexit. That premium turf care equipment. This commercial prestigious tournament.” For further information, couldn’t happen? Well Brexit win comes after the company supplied more please go to http://www.jacobsen.com/europe happened, followed by a very short period of market volatility, only to settle down and achieve record highs Health Plan is designed especially for members again for the main indices Prevention – a healthy of Suffolk Chamber to improve staff health and (FTSE100/S&P500). Then we all felt wellbeing and encourage employees to be more like we were on the ‘merry go round’, attitude for a healthy proactive about their own healthcare, helping the same fears over a Trump victory, them to budget for essential, everyday health but that could never happen could it? future for your staff costs. It is also tailored to help businesses Here we go again, but hold on, no reward and retain staff, manage risk and sickness ‘slides’, no big ‘swings’. The markets t’s all too easy to take everyday wellbeing for absence, and increase morale and productivity. carried on regardless, or so it seemed. granted, but you never know what’s around Additional benefits include access to counselling What about 2017? We continue to Ithe corner as far as health is concerned. services, scanning facilities and DoctorLine - a provide our clients with regular Without regular visits to the dentist and optician GP telephone and webcam consultation service, reviews and professional advice, being your employees are not only risking permanent as well as expert second medical opinion service cautiously optimistic, without playing damage to their teeth and eyes, they might also Best Doctors and Westfield Rewards –an in the ‘sandpit’ with our backs to the be missing the opportunity for a health exclusive website offering special offers and markets. For further information, professional to check for more serious discounts from over 450 leading retailers. For please call 01379 890401 or go to underlying health issues that could have greater more information about the Chamber Plan, visit www.andrewdickson.co.uk impact than just the odd filling or a new pair of www.westfieldhealth.com/chamber or call 0345 glasses. Westfield Health’s Chamber Primary 602 1629.

18 ChamberVoice Winter 2017 www.suffolkchamber.co.uk Tel. 01473 680600 Chamber Member News

Safety training first Suffolk Chamber member Eastern Region Training offers a vast range of safety courses from construction to health care. Founded in 2014, Eastern Region Training is a family-run business, able to offer all types of training requirements. The company has achieved accreditation from the Institute of Occupational Safety and Healt, which allows it to carry out the IOSH working and IOSH managing safely courses. The business is also in the process of gaining the RTITB accreditation, allowing it to Sarah West of The Social Edge train delegates in counterbalance forklift trucks from its state-of-the- art training centre, located Give your company ‘The Social Edge’ on the outskirts of Ipswich. On top of this, Eastern ith 30 million active UK users, social media leading holiday company, Hoseasons. The Social Edge Region Training is has fast become a way customers discover now helps Suffolk businesses turn social media into a accredited with Qualsafe, Wlocal businesses. Now, new Suffolk Chamber new way of boosting sales. “It doesn’t make sense to IOSH, CITB, HABC, and member The Social Edge has launched to help just pay for activity when it’s results you need. Because IATP. For further businesses use social media to best effect. “Social media we’re confident we can improve results, we even offer information call 01473 is a huge opportunity for many businesses. However, our clients a guarantee,” states Sarah. As well as a free 830255 or go to too many expend effort without it creating real results,” online social media health check, The Social Edge has www.easternregiontraining. says Sarah West, managing director of The Social Edge. created a number of free guides to help businesses get co.uk Former winner of Young Marketer of the Year, Sarah a head start. For more information please call 01603 established the award-nominated social media team for 469516 or go to www.thesocialedge.co.uk Protect your business! Cleaning up in the west ill Ward, director of Suffolk Chamber member Ward Trade Marks ewClean Ltd is a commercial cleaning company based in Ltd offers some advice about protecting your trademarks. Newmarket, covering Bury St Edmunds, Cambridge and B “If you don’t register your mark, someone else can, and stop you NHaverhill and a member of Suffolk Chamber of Commerce. It from using the mark yourself. We saw this recently where a small Suffolk will clean everything in your workplace barring the skeletons in your business had been trading for eight years without registering their name closet! Owner Alan Trim says: “Tracking and training our staff has so as a trade mark. A national franchise registered a similar name, and then far given us the edge in a saturated market. Saturated in sent the company a letter threatening to sue them if they did not stop the main by firms with little desire to be more than using their name. one man in a van, or of such epic proportions they “Legally, the Suffolk company was in the right, but did not have the sometimes lose sight of the standards that got them budget for a big legal battle and even if they won, would not have there. We currently sit somewhere in the centre of acquired all their costs back. In the end, they lost their name and all the that spectrum. I’m delighted we have such a dedicated goodwill they had built up. Yet this could have been avoided by team of people, adding to them is the tricky part but registering their trade mark at the outset.” so far we’ve managed it. I’m grateful, daily, for the staff For further information call 01223 421779 or go to and clients we have acquired along the way.” For more www.wardtrademarks.com information go to www.newclean.co.uk www.suffolkchamber.co.uk Tel. 01473 680600 ChamberVoice Winter 2017 19 Chamber Member News MyGo has much going for Suffolk youth

yGo is an innovative youth employment service for 16 to 24-year-olds in Suffolk. MThe initiative’s goal is simple - to ensure all 16 to 24-year-olds in the Suffolk area have the right tools and support to start or progress their careers, whether it be into employment, education or training. The MyGo team offers free one-to-one career coaching, personal employment support, training courses, recruitment events, exclusive job opportunities and benefits advice within its modern, open employment centres across Suffolk. Suffolk Chamber of Commerce is working with MyGo to help them engage with local businesses to promote its services to as many relevant young people as possible. A young person can register via www.its-mygo.co.uk to access an online data capture form. This will then be picked up by MyGo’s outreach team who will contact applicants directly to arrange an appointment. Alternatively, an interested young person can visit the MyGo Centre in Ipswich town centre on Princes Street. Upon MyGo helping Suffolk’s youth registration MyGo conducts an assessment of needs. will focus on helping young people gain core managers have regular contact with the coaches, Based on this a MyGo coach will tailor a employability skills and improving confidence. which enables them to tap into vacancies and package of support to each individual’s needs MyGo has partners that provide other types of prepare the young people to be the best they with the aim of getting them into sustainable services such as wellbeing, advice and guidance can be in readiness for their desired opportunity. employment. A myriad of training is available and specialist training. So please go-ahead and spread the word about both on a one to one basis and in groups that Its central team of employer relationship MyGo! Chamber member wins two national awards Suffolk Chamber of Commerce wife, Jenni Donno, joined around member and Haverhill-based 600 guests at the black tie event accountants 1 Accounts Online which took place at The Brewery Ltd recently scooped two in the heart of the City of prestigious national accountancy London. They were presented awards. The first accolade came with their trophy by impressionist when 1 Accounts was awarded and comedian Jon Culshaw. Most Innovative Sole Practitioner According to the judging panel 1 2016 in the 2020 Innovation Accounts had shown “good Awards. growth, a feeling that it is really 2020 Innovation is a driven, with a clear strategy. membership organisation for “They demonstrated a variety accountants across the globe. It of tools in their armoury to provides innovative solutions for support their direction of travel.” Paul and Jenni Donno progressive accountants and tax Paul, who is also chair of Suffolk recieving their award professionals, helping them to Chamber of Commerce in CREDIT: British Accountancy Awards improve the services they offer to Haverhill & District and the clients through the use of Suffolk Chamber Bank of executive of Suffolk Chamber message that this county is the technology. Less than three England Panel, said: “We want to congratulated 1 Accounts on best for business!” weeks later the team was thrilled thank all our clients, family and their success. “It’s good to see For more information about 1 to receive the British friends who have given such yet another example of a Suffolk Accounts please visit Accountancy Award for Best wonderful support and firm being recognised nationally www.1accountsonline.co.uk or New Practice 2016. motivated us to get where we for outstanding achievements. call Paul Donno on 01440 Paul and his fellow director and are today.” John Dugmore, chief “These award wins send out the 844984.

20 ChamberVoice Winter 2017 www.suffolkchamber.co.uk Tel. 01473 680600