B4 Oxfordshire Issue 28

MagazineO X F O R D S H I R E E D I T I O N

First Past the Post at Oxford Town Hall

P R • N E T W O R K I N G • C O M M U N I C A T I O N • P R O P E R T Y • R & R • I T

B U I L D I N G B R I D G E S B E T W E E N B U S I N E S S E S

I S S U E 2 8 A U T U M N 2 0 1 3

A D V I C E • C O N F E R E N C E • E D U C A T I O N • H E A L T H • M A R K E T I N G • H R

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B 4

B4 welcomes Alfa Romeo to Oxford and we hear more from our test-driving B4 Ambassadors

We meet the Oxford Town Hall's new Commercial Manager, Richard Clements

Completing an alliance of stunning venues in Oxford, we meet The West Wing's Martin Garside

Alfa Romeo Comes to Oxford

The Wonderful West Wing

So What is B4?

Join the B4 Community

B U I L D I N G B R I D G E S

B4 is the fastest growing business to business network, providing over 500 businesses in Oxfordshire, Berkshire andBuckinghamshire with four great platforms to promote and connect their businesses. It's a business network with adifference where we facilitate face to face contact with other Members at B4 events held in iconic locations.

4 Effective Platforms to Help You Connect

Why Become a Member?

B E T W E E N B U S I N E S S E S

Memberships are specific to one area, not all, and gives your business a listing in the back of your chosen area B4Magazine. A listing on the business directory of the relevant B4 website but access to all B4 events in all areas (restrictions may apply due to capacity limitations and we do have some Platinum Ambassador only events). Members can also promote their status on company e-mails and websites with our new B4 Member icons

Why Not Upgrade to Ambassador?Becoming an Ambassador gets a face to represent your business in the B4 community. Your chosen Ambassadorwill feature alongside your listing in the magazine directory, on your on line business directory listing and also in theAmbassadors’ section on the B4 website. Being an Ambassador gives you something in common to approachother B4 Ambassadors throughout the network. All Ambassadors will also receive a new B4 Ambassadors Card.

The rate to become an Ambassador is £250+VAT per annum (additional Ambassadors charged £99+VAT).

Join B4 for just £250+VAT per annumB4 Membership is now one rate for all companies. The annual charge gives your business a listing in four quarterlyeditions of B4, presence in the B4 online directory with the ability to upload unlimited press releases and event details and access to all B4 Member events for all of your employees. We have at least four events in each areaand you and your colleagues are welcome to all of them – there are no additional charges to attend events.

What about Editorial in the Magazine?

Get Connected to our Growing Community Now:Call Us Now - 01865 742211

Looks complicated? Well it's not! We can set you up to have your picture taken at our associate's studio. We canget one of our freelance PR or Editor to interview you. You have Full Editorial Control so, nothing's printed withoutyour agreement. Editorial pages start at £695+VAT and we can do almost all of it for you! Just ask!

Become a B4 Member in less than 24 hoursHere's what we need to get you started:1. Your Logo - high quality is a must and in one of the following formats: jpeg, eps, pdf, ai2. Between 50 and 300 words about your business - See the website for some great examples3. Basic contact details - Basic contact details e.g. Address, telephone number, email address

Our system will automatically generate a user name and password (which you can change) and you are ready toput up your first Press Release. But Don't Worry! There's a helpful online guide to assist you and we're always atthe end of the phone.

B4 Magazine - Packed with great features, news and promotional articles mailed free to 3,000 businessdecision makers (separate circulation of 3,000 in each county)1

B4 Website - Upload press releases direct to the site and promote forthcoming events and seminars. AllB4 articles printed are uploaded to the business directory on the site.2

B4 Events - Meet other B4 members at high quality B4 events in Oxfordshire, Berkshire and Buckinghamshire...Why not even bring a guest?3

B4 Social - Promote your business to other B4 members via our social media platforms, a great way toget your message across.4

Going the extra mile

We have a superb in-house team of event managers, chefs, technical and hospitality staff who all work endlessly to ensure the smooth running of our events.

For more information on our current day delegate offers visit www.cheltenham.co.uk

Call 01242 539 538 or email [email protected] for our latest brochure.

We don’t just want your event to be a success – we want the planning and hosting of it to be as easy, stress-free and enjoyable as possible.

• Over 10,000 free parking spaces

• Capacity for 2 – 2,250 people

• Full on site technical, AV and Marketing support available

• Experienced and dedicated event management service

• Bespoke catering options

• Superb views of Cotswold Hills

• Close to major road and rail links

• Free Wi-Fi in key rooms@CheltRaceEvents

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Welcome to Issue 28

It’s another bumper edition of B4 packed full of great advice, interesting articles andsome new faces.

We welcome Alfa Romeo to Oxford, an iconic brand which is now available at PlatinumAmbassadors, Motor Village Oxford and hear from B4 Ambassadors who have test drivenvarious models.

We would also like to welcome, as new Platinum Ambassadors, The Jockey Club (South WestRacecourses), Robert Stanley Opticians, Oxford Castle (all of whom you can read about inthis issue) and finally, Pegasus Theatre.

Our lead article features Oxford Town Hall and Kelly Lea meets new commercial manager,Richard Clements, to find out more about the events being staged there, the challenges andopportunities facing Richard, and why you should consider the Town Hall for your next event.

If it’s advice you’re after, we have it in buckets! There’s great financial advice from LloydsCommercial, Shaw Gibbs, Wenn Townsend and Grant Thornton, legal pointers from Darbysand Henmans Freeth and human resources features from Right Hand HR and Nicola Gardiner.

On the property front, we welcome Strutt & Parker to Oxford and also have contributionsfrom VSL, Carter Jonas and Pink & Black.

We all like to unwind, (occasionally!) so have a look at our reviews of Café Aloha and TheBear and Ragged Staff; read all about Invisible Vegas’ photo shoot at Lady Margaret Hall andfor some inspiring tales of the B4 bike ride, Jackie Jarvis puts all that effort into a greatmotivational article.

For those of you who attended our Said Lecture earlier in the year, we spotlight The WestWing, The Said Business School’s new conference facility…. and it’s simply stunning.

We have also launched the B4 Ambassadors Card which is gaining momentum with somegreat offers across the Thames Valley. If you would like to upgrade to The Ambassadors Club,please get in touch with us today! See more on page 82.

Enjoy B4!

96. Not acracker in sight

Written by Jo Sensecall

46. Buy, Hire Purchase orLease?

Written by Tony Haines

106. Business Insights Inspired

Written by Jackie Jarvis

22. First Pastthe Post

Written by Kelly Lea

welcometo B4

MeetTheWriters

B4 Magazine was established to provide Oxfordshire businesses with a clear voice to raise their profileand to help businesses connect. Direct mailed to three thousand business decision makers in Oxfordshireevery quarter, B4 is regarded as Oxfordshire’s leading free distribution business publication. B4 stands forBuilding Bridges Between Business and that is what B4 helps businesses to do, aided by our first classwebsite at www.b4-business.com, quarterly B4 Ambassador events and monthly workshops.

B4 is funded by paid for display advertising and editorial, although some editorial is granted withoutcharge at the discretion of the Editor. Please call us to find out how you can get involved.

WHY NOT FOLLOW B4 MAGAZINE ON

www.b4-business.com

ContactsIf you want to contact B4 MagazineTelephone: 01865 [email protected]

Publisher B4 Magazine is published by Designs On Ltd, The Firs, Headington Hill, Oxford, OX3 0BT

ChairmanColin [email protected]

EditorRichard [email protected]

Art EditorKeith [email protected]

Assistant EditorLorna [email protected]

ProofreaderSue Rosser

B4 EventsTina [email protected]

B4 Digital MarketingDaria Montella

Editorial contributorsJackie JarvisJo SensecallKelly LeaLucy HolmesLucy HowardMadeleine BarberNicholas NewmanTony HainesTracey Jefferies

B4 PhotographyRob Scotcher

Studio PhotographyStudio8Telephone: 01865 842525

SubscriptionsFor free Subscription, please contact:Telephone: 01865 [email protected] Each business with an Oxfordshire postcodeis entitled to one free copy per issue. Foradditional copies and for businesses outsideof Oxfordshire, there is an annual subscriptioncharge of £25.

Put Together in OxfordshireB4 is all about Oxfordshire. Designed,produced and printed in Oxfordshire.

© Designs-on Ltd and B4 Magazine.Whilst every attempt has been made toensure that the content of this publication isaccurate and correct in every way, thepublishers cannot be held responsible or liablefor any inaccuracies or errors within thepublication. Information reproduced from thispublication is permitted with the expresspermission of the publisher and theadvertiser, where relevant. All information iscorrect at time of going to press.

B4 Magazine is printed by

B 4About Magazine

Richard Rosser Editor

34 The Wonderful West Wing: Said Business School's stunning new investment.

41 Satisfaction Guaranteed: The women behind ADS, one of Oxon's leading advertising and design agencies.

52 IT Security Provider Goes for Gold: Quadsys Ltd becomes first UK Sophos Gold Solution Partner.

60 The High Sheriff Challenge: Tony Stratton, the High Sheriff of Oxfordshire for 2014, talks ideas.

68 Business is Booming: Oxford Centre for Innovation set for expansion even in these dark times.

79 Strictly Fundraising: Oxford banker Karl Leitelmayer tells of his dancing endeavours.

112 What Katy Did: The story of Katy Stilborn, Blackwell's Head of Operations and Warrior Princess.

46 Buy, Hire Purchase, or Lease?: Wenn Townsend's Tony Haines helps you to understand your options.

51 Thinking About Recruiting?: Advice from Right Hand HR on recruitment after the recession.

72 A New Lease of Life?: Tips for business lease renewals from Henmans Freeth.

103 Company Car Drivers: Make sure yours aren't going to end you up in prison!

106 Marketingco's Business Insights: Inspired by B4's 428mile Cycle Challenge.

116 To 'Search' or to 'Find'?: A recruitment specialist such as Nicola Gardner could be the answer.

33ADVICE33 Darbys Crime & Regulatory Team: Defending you when the chips are down!

22LEAD22 First Past the Post: The journey of Oxford Town Hall's commercial manager, Richard Clements.

10NEWS10 News from the Ambassadors13 B4 News21 B4 Events Diary30 Visit Oxfordshire & Oxford Inspires45 Oxford Wine Company67 The Jockey Club75 Hawkwell House76 VSL91 Jennings115 Meet Oxfordshire104 B4 Summer Events

www.b4-business.com6

26SPOTLIGHT

48FINANCE48 Zombies to Defeat Recovery?: Shaw Gibbs outlines why growth in the economy might not equal new jobs.

71 International Trade: Get the support you need to trade internationally from Santander.

84 Tax Turns Innovative: Grant Thornton discuss the evolution of their team and plans for the future.

26 Motor Village: Alfa Romeo Comes to Oxford. B4 Ambassadors test drive the Giulietta and the Mito.

38SERVICES38 NEW from Aston & James: Secure Shredding and Managed Print Services for your business.

96 Not a Cracker in Sight: Oxford Fine Dining explains how to make your Christmas Party memorable.

120 Suited to Oxford and Beyond:Meet Carol Rawson, MD of bespokeOxford-based tailor Suit the City.

56R&R56 How Smart is Your Home?: Endless possibilities with Bang & Olufsen's new Smart Home installations.

92 Eat. Drink. Enjoy.: Oxford Castle Quarter isn't going to let the Summer end!

99 Café by Day, Restaurant by Night: Meet the man behind the buzzing Café Aloha.

101 The Feathers in Woodstock: The country retreat that combines historic charm and a fun personality.

108 The Not So Ragged Bear: B4 meets Mark Greenwood, landlord of The Bear and Ragged Staff.

42PROPERTY42 Strutt & Parker: B4 meets a property firm bursting with enthusiasm and innovation.

88 Unearthing the Experts' Stories: Meet four unique characters from Carter Jonas' Oxford office.

124 Lower Mill Estate: The water garden is unveiled at Lower Mill Estate.

128 Pink & Black Property: Selling homes with style and intelligence.

131 CONTACTS

87HEALTH87 Keeping in Focus: Robert Stanley Opticians are on an eyecare mission.

123 In the CLEAR: Oxford Brookes' University's Clinical Exercise and

Rehabilitation Unit.

63MARKETING63 SEOptimise: Oxford-based digital marketing agency takes the industry by storm.

111 Branding & Identity: Phil Strachan talks about the essential art of Managing Perceptions.

www.b4-business.com 7

B4 contents

59IT & COMMS59 The Importance of Training: IT firm CIS Ltd explain why training, whenever possible, is key for your business.

95 The Social: This issue Glooo takes us through Google Alerts.

64VENUES64 Invisible Vegas: Oxford-based rock band shoot their new promo at Lady Margaret Hall.

80 Williams Conference Centre: Looking for a venue to inspire, motivate and reward? Look no further.

Residential Letting · Property Management

meetoxfordshire

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CPSD E S I G N P R I N TP U B L I C A T I O N S

O X F O R D

B 4 P L A T I N U M M E M B E R S

Why not join them?Call us on 01865 742211 now for details about our Platinum Ambassador packages.

We have a capacity of 75 Platinum Ambassadors in each area.

AMBASSADORSHIPS ALREADY TAKEN OXFORDSHIRE 55 BERKSHIRE 15 BUCKINGHAMSHIRE 8

B4 contributors

B4 REGULAR CONTRIBUTORS IN THIS ISSUE (IN PAGE ORDER)

Visit Oxfordshire.......................................................................................................................30

Aston & James.............................................................................................................................38

Oxford Wine Company........................................................................................................45

Shaw Gibbs....................................................................................................................................48

Lloyds TSB.......................................................................................................................................52

Bang & Olufsen.......................................................................................................................56

Lady Margaret Hall...............................................................................................................64

Henmans Freeth........................................................................................................................72

VSL.........................................................................................................................................................76

Glooo...................................................................................................................................................95

Oxford Fine Dining..................................................................................................................96

The Feathers................................................................................................................................101

Ultimate Car Control...........................................................................................................103

Strangebrew................................................................................................................................111

Blackwell’s....................................................................................................................................112


PICK OF THE B4 PLATINUM AMBASSADOR CONTRIBUTORS

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B4 VIEWSWe have asked some of the B4 network’s Ambassadorsto help us to inject some confidence into the businesscommunity with encouraging news about their businessesor general reasons to be optimistic.

Many thanks to each of them for their time and we hopeyou leave this page feeling positive and upbeat!

Karl Leitelmayer, Senior Director,SME Banking, Lloyds TSB“Confidence is rising among local businesses, whichseem more willing to look for investment. As part ofour commitment to local causes, I am also takingpart in Strictly Oxford, to raise money for ValeHouse”www.lloydstsb.com

Simon McCrum, partnerDarbys“35% cent growth last year and another 40% at thehalf-year stage this year. You can try every optionunder the sun, but you can’t get away from the factthat only great people make a great business.”www.darbys.co.uk

Cheryl Adams, Regional CorporateDirector, Santander“We’re passionate about fuelling the ambitions ofOxford businesses. That’s why we recently openedour new corporate office in Oxford with a team ofdedicated Relationship Directors and Product Specialists, ready to help support successful and fastgrowing SME businesses.”www.santander.co.uk

Neil Grundon, Deputy Chairman,Grundon Waste Management Ltd“We expect to see real signs of recovery very soonnow. Sales leads received via our web site haveproven to be a good indicator of business confidence. After declining for 18 months theybounced back in Q2 and are rising again.”www.grundon.com

Tim Keatinge, General ManagerMotor Village, Oxford“Motor Village Oxford has enjoyed quite a transformation in the last 12 months, not least witha new name. With Alfa Romeo coming to Oxfordafter a long absence, we are really excited about apositive future. Read all about Alfa Romeo in Oxfordin Issue 28 of B4.”www.motorvillageuk.com

Mark Crampton Smith, ManagingDirector, College and County“Our confidence in the continued growth of the Private Rented Sector has allowed us to expand intoBuckinghamshire where we have just acquiredOpen Doors. Two offices will allow us to deliver thesame high quality, award winning, customer services in an innovative way, to a much wider market.” www.collegeandcounty.biz

Richard Smith, General ManagerThe Oakley Court Hotel, Windsor“Two glorious bank holidays recently made a significant difference to our business. But then, ashot of sunshine on our al fresco riverside terracegives everyone a positive boost!”www.oakleycourtwindsor.com

Simon Brooker, partnerBDO LLP“We are exceptionally lucky to be living and workingin the Thames Valley area. There are so manytremendous businesses around us with some fantastic success stories....we’ve got many clientsgrowing very confidently, despite the recession.”www.bdo.co.uk


B4 SPOTLIGHT

If you would like to contributeyour view to a future edition ofB4, please e-mail the editor at: [email protected]

Phil Wood, Head of EnterpriseBuckinghamshire New University“Innovation is key to our success and Bucks NewUniversity is increasingly becoming the first port ofcall for businesses who want to grow their people,their capabilities and their competitive edge.”www.bucks.ac.uk

David Stanning, Senior partner,B P Collins LLP“With some bounce at last returning to the economy, the Thames Valley remains a great placeto build a business. We're passionate, privilegedand pleased to bring top quality and top value legaladvice to the thriving entrepreneurial culture.”www.bpcollins.co.uk

Tony Rider, Director Business &Commercial Banking, RBS“I feel privileged to lead the RBS team working withthe professional and business communities acrossthe Thames Valley - economic challenge is still partof everyday life but there is good causefor optimism.”www.rbs.co.uk

Nicola Miller, Managing Director,Lime Blue Solutions“We have seen a significant increase in enquiriesover the last month, for conferences and events athome and overseas. This is a very positive sign andhope that this will continue moving into the finalquarter of the year.”www.limebluesolutions.com

Ray Best, Managing Director,Pareto Lawrence“Ray Best received lifetime achievement award withMillion Dollar Round Table, we have had a verybusy and successful 12 months and put our successdown to business owner clients and their responseto our total planning service.”www.paretolawrence.co.uk

Richard Rosser, Editor,B4 Magazine“We come into contact with a wide range of businesses across the Thames Valley and althoughconditions will never be the same as they were,confidence is gradually coming back.”www.b4-business.com

James Dillon-Godfray,Business Development

Director, London Oxford Airport

“We've seen 98% growth in our private aircraft market over the last fiveyears, highest growth for any UK airport, which must be testament tothe Thames Valley remaining prime

investment territory.”www.londonoxfordairport.co.uk

Located in the heart of Oxford, with stunning facilities andample parking to host conferences, corporate events, weddingreceptions or parties, Magdalen College School is the perfectchoice for your next event.

Call Emma Withers on 01865 242191or email [email protected] to find out more or to arrange a no obligation visit.www.mcsoxford.org

MAGDALEN:Great School,Great Venue

Aspire Oxford is an award-winning local charityrunning its own social businesses in grounds &landscape maintenance, property services,labour supply and recycling. We provide ourfacilities management services to local councils,blue-chip corporates, academic institutions andprivate customers across Oxfordshire andbeyond. All of our businesses come with socialimpact built-in, changing lives for local men andwomen facing complex barriers to securingemployment.

We’ve expanded our teams and our fleet of vansthis summer to match an unprecedented demandfor our services from new and existing clients. Frombuilding beaches at the Oxford Castle Quarter todelivering grounds maintenance for CottswayHousing Association across three counties, there’sno job Aspire can’t deliver!

We’re always keen to take on more business at acompetitive price, so if your organisation haspainting & decorating or grounds maintenanceneeds to be taken care of this autumn, contact us

on 01865 204451 / www.aspireoxford.co.ukto get a competitive quote.


Aspire Oxford’s Life-Changing Social Businesses: Bigger, Better, Bolder

Young Oxfordshire cyclist Ben Homa recentlymoved to Belgium to race for Kings NorthInternational, the team that produced Jack Baur,a competitor in the 2013 Tour de France. Ben,

one of the guides in the recent B4 ride fromEdinburgh to Oxford, is currently seekingsponsorship from local businesses

“At a very young age I started cycling andcompleted my first road race at the age of twelve.Leaving home at 18, I worked as a bike guide on acruise ship around the Caribbean and Med. Igraduated in 2012 with a 2:1 in Sport Science fromOxford Brookes. My race results are beginning tomatch the hours of work I put in during the wintermonths, and sponsorship would help fund the rest

of this season’s racing in Belgium and the UK inpursuit of a professional cycling contact. In return Ican help raise the profile of any prospectivesponsor’s brand via social media, on bike graphicsand clothing related branding. Also 15% of myprize money is donated to Help for Heroes as I feelit is very important to aid those serving to recover.”

Please email [email protected] if you wouldlike to discuss any of the above in more detail.Good luck from all of us at B4, Ben.

Talented Young Oxfordshire Cyclist Seeks Sponsorship for Belgian Adventure

In addition to supplying and maintaining alltypes of fire extinguishers and fire safetyequipment, Executive Fire Protection Ltd isabout to embark on the servicing of kitchen firesuppression systems as well as maintaining dryriser systems, sprinkler systems and firehydrants.

We are continuing to grow, and to expand ourservices in all aspects of fire fighting products andservices.

We are always willing and open to offering newsafety measures within our area of expertise.

We offer a 24 hour service, are BAFE accredited,and all our engineers are fully trained in thecommissioning and maintenance of Portable FireExtinguishers in compliance with British Standard5306 Part 3.

We offer a free site visit to give advice and guidanceno matter how large or small the customer’s

requirements may be.

We strive to deliver excellent customer service, care,and peace of mind. www.executivealarms.co.uk

Brethertons Solicitors is launching a programmeof complimentary seminars for small and ruralbusiness owners.

The first seminar, entitled Up in Smoke, deals withthe topic of disaster recovery for agricultural and

rural businesses. The event will be held at theWindmill Community Centre, Hempton Road,Deddington, Banbury OX15 0QH on Tuesday 29October and will be supported by the RoyalAgricultural Benevolent Institution (RABI).

The second seminar, entitled Caring for Mum &Dad, deals with the subject of Long Term Careplanning. The seminar, to be held on Thursday 14November at the Littlebury Hotel, Kings End,Bicester, Oxfordshire, OX26 6DR, will look at the

financial consequences of long-term care, possibleplanning methods, the types of Trust available andcomparing the merits of lifetime planning versusWills.

To register your place at either of these events, andfor details of forthcoming seminars, visit theBrethertons website www.brethertons.co.uk.Contact [email protected] formore information.

Brethertons Seminar Programme

B 4 N e w s i s S p o n s o r e d b y

Executive Fire Protection

B4 news

Egrove Park

Egrove Park is Saïd Business School’s purpose-built executive education centre situated in 37 acres of parkland two miles from Oxford city centre.

Facilities include:

• wide range of meeting rooms – from a lecture theatre seating 100, to smaller syndicate rooms for break-out sessions

• the latest high-tech and multimedia facilities and full IT/AV support from our

• 63 en-suite study bedrooms• on-site gym, sauna, two squash courts, an

all-weather tennis court, a croquet lawn and a snooker room

The combination of stunning spaces, impressive technology, delicious food and unbeatable locations makes Saïd Business School, the centre for Oxford’s conferencing

Park End Street

The Saïd Business School Park End Street building has a wide variety of different sized rooms to cater for all bookings from 300 people to a small meeting of six people all within a modern environment. The School is located next to the railway station and within easy walking distance of the city centre and bus station.

The stunning new West Wing opened in October 2012 and complements the Park End Street state-of-the-art facilities. The large variety of teaching and meeting rooms

standards are available to businesses and organisations for conferences, meetings and exhibitions.

Clements and Church are a gentleman’s tailorslocated on little clarendon street, Oxford. JasonBevan the head tailor has recently enjoyedrubbing shoulders with the stars at EddieJordan’s Windsor races charity event. Aftermeeting Barry Grinham owner of Prime Energyand Eddie Jordan’s personal trainer at a B4event in Oxford, they both attended the eventwhere Jason donated a bespoke suit that soldfor 2 thousand pounds to the Clic Sargentcharity. Jake Humphrey the BBC presenter,hosted the event and Jason kindly gave him apure silk pocket square to complete his outfit

on the night!

Separately Jason and Barry also attended the BritishGrand Prix where they spent the day with ForceIndia and bumped into Sir Jackie Stewart, NikiLauda amongst others!

Clements & Church provide an exceptionalbespoke and ready to wear tailoring servicesourcing some of the finest fabrics available.Creating and designing ranges that cover everythingfrom formal business attire through to unique oneoff bespoke suits. www.clementsandchurch.co.uk


Clements and Church’s F1 Adventure

Adhere Training Club, based in High Wycombe,sees its first Training Club franchise launch inOctober this year in Guildford, Surrey. TheTraining Club model is only two years old buthas already seen a huge amount of growth inthat period with training venues inBuckinghamshire, Oxfordshire, London andnow Surrey.

Founder of Adhere Training Club, Lisa Butler, puts

the success of Training Club down to the innovativeway in which the training workshops have beenpackaged as part of a membership based offer.Members pay a fixed monthly fee, from as little as£10 per person, and they then have unlimitedaccess to all 26 workshop topics, as often and asmuch as they like. Lisa says “No other trainingprovider in the UK offers a package in this way,which is why it’s very appealing not only topotential members but also potential franchisees.

Adhere Training Club focuses on three core benefitsto all of their training workshops, Increase Sales,Reduce Costs and Save Time. To find out moreabout Adhere Training Club visitwww.adheretraining.co.uk

Adhere Training Club Launches its First Franchise

Having missed the Big B4 Charity bike ride fromEdinburgh to Oxford in May due to a minormedical issue, Rupert Reid (less his appendix)

and wingman Jim Walters of Security Exchange,eventually set off from Edinburgh Castle amidstthe Fringe Festival on Thursday 15th August,bound for Blenheim Palace in aid of Helen &Douglas House, the Oxford children’s hospice.

Battling brisk headwinds and heavy rain showers,the intrepid ‘Peloton of Two’ peddled steadilySouth, ‘up hill and down dale’, with stops in Kelso,Newcastle, Leeds, Nottingham and Oxford wherethey refuelled on Aussie Shiraz and Ribeye steaks;

pressing on to a triumphant entry into BlenheimPalace on the following Monday.

Rupert and Jim would like to thank the SecurityExchange Race Support Crew, the excellent staff ofthe Cross Keys Hotel in Kelso, the De Vere VillageHotel Group and Browns Restaurants; and RichardRosser and the B4 team for making it all happen.Most of all, though, thanks to all their sponsors whogave so generously and helped raise over £3500for Helen & Douglas House.

Rupert Reid and Jim Walters complete B4 Bike Ride

Teletrax Ltd is an independent CertifiedBusiness Partner for TomTom BusinessSolutions and we provide the latest in GPSsatellite vehicle tracking and internet-basedtelematics and fleet management systems.

We offer a range of products and services such as:

• TomTom vehicle tracking, fuel monitoring, twoway communication and active driver behavioursolutions (typically saving companies up to 20%on fleet operating costs)• TomTom navigation solutions with LIVE servicesand HD Traffic• PDA based solutions enabling efficientcommunication with your mobile workforce• Dynamic Routing & Scheduling solutions (typically

saving companies up to 29% on fleet operatingcosts)• Vehicle Tracking Policies to protect companiesfrom falling foul of data protection and privacy lawswhen using vehicle tracking systems• Full UK & European installation coverage

Contact us on 01235 856 054 or [email protected]

teletraFleet Management Solutions

There are easier ways to save on fuel and speed up your service!

B 4 N e w s i s S p o n s o r e d b y B4 news

Executive Alarms is continuing to grow itscustomer base and our reputation andcompany profile continues to widen aftersuccessfully securing a contract award with aLocal Authority for a large fire alarm system.

We strive to deliver excellent customer service and

in order to fulfil this goal we are currently workingtowards NSI NACOSS Gold Scheme accreditation.

The prestigious reputation of the NSI audit meanscustomers will enjoy the reassurance which NSIcertification brings.

The NACOSS Gold Scheme is not only a UKASAccredited QMS scheme but it is also a UKASAccredited PC (Product Certification) scheme forcompanies like ourselves who Design, Plan, Installand Maintain Electronic Security Systems.Consequently companies approved under thescheme not only have to demonstrate that they

operate an effective quality management system,but also that the product supplied is fully compliant.

Whilst preparing for NACOSS Gold, we have alreadyreceived BAFE (British Approvals for FireEquipment) compliance for the design, installation& maintenance of fire alarm systems & equipment.

Furthermore we have recently employed two newTrainee Alarm Engineers who will be enrolled thisautumn on the Skills for Security apprenticeshipscheme as we actively invest in our workforceoffering talented young people a career in theindustry. www.executive-systems.co.uk


Executive Alarms continued growth

Accountancy and business advisory firm, BDOLLP in collaboration with premier PR andmarketing agency, C8 Consulting, are delightedto announce plans to create a new panel ofbusiness leaders to influence commerce,infrastructure and social trends in the ThamesValley.

Members will be invited to contribute to theThames Valley Business Barometer and representa cross section of regional businesses from thearea, giving companies the opportunity to influenceBarometer reports through discussion and theidentification of emerging trends.

Now in its second year, the Thames Valley BusinessBarometer provides a quarterly snapshot ofbusiness and economic confidence in the Thames

Valley region. The survey results offer a compellingstreet-level view of business sentiment, helping toinform decisions on growth, investment andemployment in the region.

Simon Brooker, Head of BDO Thames Valleycomments: “This new Thames Valley BusinessBarometer Panel gives local organisations a voice,creating an opportunity for discussion aroundtopical issues and current trends in business. Itprovides panel members with key insights into theregion’s growth strategy and an understanding ofhow their peers are faring, as well as the impactthat businesses are having on the Thames Valleyeconomy.”

There are many benefits in becoming a foundingmember of the Thames Valley Business Barometerpanel:

· Thought Leadership: Organisations can share theirviews and comment on key trends and themesaround regional business for the Barometer

· Share of Voice:Members will be invited to discussthe initial findings at events and have their viewsreferenced in the final production of the report· Profile: There will be a social media and PRprogramme wrapped around the launch of eachBarometer and also members will be invited toattend regular Barometer events· Networking: Attendance at the quarterly TwentiesClub event will be extended to all panel members,where they can network with business peers anddiscuss the Barometer findings· Enhancing Relationships: The opportunity tonominate businesses they work with or admire tobe interviewed for an in-depth business profile, andto invite businesses within their networks toparticipate for themselves

If you are a business in the Thames Valley area andwould like to commit to becoming a panelmember, or simply to discuss the Thames ValleyBusiness Barometer further, please contact KarenMeenderink at BDO on 0118 925 4448 or viaemail [email protected].

Regional businesses invited to join as founder members of Thames Valley Business Barometer panel

In the centre of Oxford is a tower above the OldFire Station which is hard to spot. We call it theHidden Spire. In December 2012, Arts at theOld Fire Station and Crisis Skylight produced thefirst Hidden Spire event. It was the biggestcreative collaboration between the two charitiessince we re-opened in November 2011 andbrought professional artists and homelesspeople together to explore the theme of hiddenthrough music, theatre, dance, visual arts andmore.

For 2013, an expanded Hidden Spire returns withthe theme of chance with four performances from12th to 14th December.

Hidden Spire will stir, enchant, amuse and intrigue.It will also show the value and the potential ofcombining a public art centre and resources forhomeless people in the same building. Andimportantly it shows that excellent art and inclusiveart can be the same thing.

How lucky are you at Christmas?

To find out more about the project, visit the projectblog: www.hiddenspire.blogspot.co.uk

Hidden Spire returns to the Old Fire Station


Oxford Technologies Ltd has been awarded a£4.3M contract by Dounreay Site RestorationLtd to design, build, install and commission aremotely controlled Intervention Platform whichwill facilitate the retrieval of waste from theDounreay Shaft and Stub tunnel complex.

Some of the most hazardous radioactive wastefrom Britain’s post war nuclear programme wasdisposed of into the 65m shaft and 18m longhorizontal stub tunnel. Emptying and cleaning theShaft and Stub Tunnel presents one of the world’smost challenging decommissioning projects, and

Oxford Technologies’ proven ability to deliverinnovative and cost effective remote handlingsolutions will be brought to bear on this mission.

Oxford Technologies Ltd is a world leading SME inthe provision of remote handling solutions forNuclear Fusion and High Energy Physicsapplications. This contract is a major step in aplanned growth and diversification programmewith several new positions being created.

Charlotte Daubney (Executive). Tel: 01235 [email protected]


B4 newsOxford Technologies Wins Major UK Decommissioning Contract

On probably the hottest day of the year theB4/M Group Golf Cup Final was contested onthe demanding course at Studley Wood. Thefairways were firm but the softer greensenabled the better players to score well. The

Course was in exceptional condition and theday was absolutely fantastic with tmb Events yetagain stamping their professionalism on theevent. We are indebted to Nigel Green for histireless efforts to ensure that the whole

tournament has been a resounding success. Weare also grateful for the help received fromDonna, Claire, Rachel and Brian.

Ken Heathcote and the team at Studley Wood puton a great show that made Studley Wood a veryworthy venue for the final.

The final pairing of Frilford Heath (Jimmy Jamesand Alistair Booth) and Bang & Olufsen (MarkJames and Gary Quainton) had the best scorescarried forward from the qualifiers but CulhamPublication Services (Peter Wilson and BarryJames) with a score of 46 points came frombehind to win the trophy. Bang & Olufsen weresecond and Clifton Ingram third.

Alistair Booth won nearest the pin and the longestdrive. Interested in joining over 40 Thames Valleyteams for next year’s competition? Call Colin on01865 742211.

Culham Publication Services Make It A Hat Trick!

Are you missing opportunities for profit growthbecause you’re tied up with the day-to-dayrunning of the business?

RTS specialises in helping small to medium sizebusinesses to identify operational efficiencies whichwill significantly improve the bottom line.

Many years of experience in retail buying with largeHigh Street Retailers ensures delivery of both astrategic vision and focus on detail. This will leaveyou with a clear view of the future, betterestablished processes and greater control of your

onward development.

“Rosemary hits the ground running. We value hersupport, input and professional approach and shedelivered not only a significant improvement to ourgross margin but also better business systems forour onward control and planning.”

Val Jackson, Director. Jigsaw Media & Marketing LtdFast, affordable and a flexible addition to your team,contact Rosemary Brown for more [email protected] www.rts-breakthroughsolutions.co.uk

Are you missing opportunities?

WILA Lighting celebrated its’ 20th Birthday oftrading here in the UK at a surprise celebrationheld for Mike Collett at The Vineyard, Stockcrossearlier this month.

Claire Styles had organised the evening ofcelebration in secret over the last 6 months.

The evening was enjoyed by a number ofcolleagues past and present, associates and friendsof Mike.

The evening began with Claire explaining whatMike and WILA have achieved during the last 20

years. Others then spoke of working for and withMike. Before a production of video messages inthe form of “This is your Life” were played. Friendand Editor of Lux Magazine, Ray Molony spoke ofthe other Top 10 challenges Mike had faced duringthe last 20 years.

All then enjoyed fantastic food and wine whilstlistening to the amazing operatic voice of RejeliPaulo and Andrew Macmillan, who accompaniedRejeli on piano.

www.wila.com


B4 newsWILA celebrate

In association with Lloyds Commercial, we willagain be holding a B4 Lecture event at The WestWing, Said Business School on Friday 8thNovember at 8am (finishes at 10am).

Our confirmed speakers are CIS, Sophos andEveryday Technologies with one other to confirm.

Breakfast will be provided for this open event, so

not restricted to B4 Members and Ambassadors.There will be an opportunity to network until8.30am before the four 15 minute presentationsand again after the presentations until 10am.

Places are limited to just 75 so please register byvisiting www.b4-business.com and clicking onB4 Events in the menu.

The B4 Said Lecture: IT and Your Business

Our fantastic new B4 Ambassadors Card isattracting some great offers as you can see onpage 82.

If you’re a member and want to upgrade toAmbassador, why not do so today and start tobenefit from these great deals. We have new offerscoming on stream weekly and you can be a B4Ambassador for just £250+VAT per annum (once

you have one Ambassador, your colleagues can gethold of a card for just £99+VAT).

Contact B4 today on 01865 742211 to find outmore about being an Ambassador.

www.b4-business.com

Join The B4 Ambassadors Club

Ronaldo. Kaka. And now Bale. It is not oftenthat you get to train under the club that housessuch extraordinary talent.

But this year Oxford played host to the very firstReal Madrid Foundation "Campus Experience".Students aged 9-17 spent one week living andbreathing the ethos and values that the club instillsin all of its players.

Each day saw packed schedules with two trainingsessions and a huge range of activities including

assault courses, chef's school and even yoga. Andwith the course hosted by Lady Margaret Hall,University of Oxford it really was the footballexperience of a lifetime.

"Fantastic camp", "One to treasure" and "Bigsuccess" have been just some of the reviews fromthe parents and children who attended.

The only question left to ask is will you be therenext year? For information and enquires just visitwww.playreal.co.uk.

Playreal


WE HAVE EXPERTS IN YOUR AREA, IN YOUR AREA.However you’ve made your wealth, we have a specialist ready

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B4 diaryEvent Organiser Venues Date Time Event Details

The ManorHawkwell HouseBodleian LibrarySaid Business School

2nd Oct21st NovTBA 20148th Nov

6.00pm6.00pmTBA8.00am

B4 Members & Guests’ Networking Events

Presentations by Sophos, CIS, and Every-day Technologies

The Forbury Hotel 17th Oct 5.30pmB4 Members & Guests’ Networking Events

The Compleat AnglerHartwell House

24th OctTBA

6.30pmTBA

B4 Members & Guests’ NetworkingEvents

The Manor 1st Oct 6.00pmThe Oxfordshire Restaurant Awards 2013www.oxfordshirerestaurantawards.co.uk

Blenheim Palace2nd Oct6th Nov5th Dec

12.00pm

Business growth networking forum whichgives its members a safe, confidential testing ground for ideas, solution-findingand business opportunities. Please [email protected] for further information. Tel: 01865 424869 / 07554019240

Urban Element, WitneyOffice 22nd Oct 9.30am

This informal seminar looks at LinkedInprofiles and accounts and how you canmake them more effective and useLinkedIn as a tool for your business. Wewill look at your strategy for LinkedIn, rais-ing your profile and the new companypages.

Urban Element, WitneyOffice 22nd Oct 12.30pm

This informal seminar will look at: - Integrating twitter as part of your marketing plan - Setting up your account& profile - What and when to tweet -Measuring Twitters effectiveness - UsingTwitter as a promotional tool.

B E R K S H I R E

O X F O R D S H I R E

In Association with Carter Jonas

B4 Members can feature their events on this page, subject to availability – please get in touch for your complimentary listing.

BUCKINGHAMSHIRE

T H E O X F O R D S H I R E

RESTAURANTAWARDS

If new to the city you could be forgiven forwalking past the magnificent Grade II*Victorian building on St Aldate’s withoutdiscovering the diverse venue of OxfordTown Hall which has hosted a wide range ofevents in its history from a Rolling Stonesconcert through to Nelson Mandela givinghis acceptance speech for Freedom of theCity.

Home to the Museum of Oxford, the only museumin Oxford to tell the story of Oxford, the beautifulhistoric venue also has a licensed cafe, gift shop,heritage learning centre, exhibition space andgallery corridor. However, there are many morehidden treasures that could be of interest to the B4Business community in addition to general visitorsto the city.

The challenge facing new commercial manager,Richard Clements, is to broadcast one of Oxford’sbest-kept secrets, creating noise about a venue,which has so much potential to play a bigger roleon the Oxford stage.

Previously General Manager of Carlisle Racecourse,Clements spent seven and a half years working atvenues owned by The Jockey Club to helpmaximise their use beyond the race meetings theyran throughout the year.

His last race meeting at Carlisle saw interest triple,with 9,000 tickets sold, inspired by a hotly

anticipated performance from Madness whichfollowed a great evening’s racing. This was afantastic achievement considering the average racecard would typically attract interest from up to3,000 visitors or ‘punters’.

“Oxford Town Hall is not too dissimilar to CarlisleRacecourse in terms of challenges,’ explainsClements. “My task at Carlisle was to make use ofthe venue outside of racing which left 344 days ofthe year. What do you do with a racetrack?Conferences, exhibitions, concerts and weddings!” The Jockey Club reinvests profit made from itsracecourses towards the development of horseracing, and Clements is keen to highlight that theincrease in income at Oxford Town Hall will bereinvested back into public services via Oxford CityCouncil. This was an influencing factor, aside fromlocation, when accepting his new role.

My interview with Clements took place in a room,which hosted two Hindu weddings the previousday. With four licensed rooms to host civil andpartnership ceremonies, he reports that weddingbookings are already up by 50 per cent on last yearin the first four months.

The upcoming Oxford Town Hall Wedding Fair willalso become a firm fixture in the bride to be diaryas ladies flock to see up to 40 exhibitors alongsidean unrivalled wedding fashion catwalk showcasingan array of dress designs and accessories, everySeptember.

From Carlisle Racecourse to Oxford Town Hall, a journey with moresimilarities than you may think for commercial manager, RichardClements, writes Kelly Lea of Syncro PR.

FIRST PAST THEPOST AT OXFORDTOWN HALL


B4 LEAD

“The challenge facingnew commercial manager, RichardClements, is to

broadcast one of Oxford’s best-kept

secrets”

www.b4-business.com

DECKTHE HALLWith schools now back and normal playresumed, it won’t be long before the chaos ofsummer holidays is a distant memory withthoughts turning towards Christmas trees,mistletoe and the infamous office ChristmasParty.

During December, Oxford Town Hall will betransforming its beautiful main hall into anextravagant Winter Wonderland for sharedChristmas parties and we have been promised:‘a magical spectacle with exquisite lighting andguests captivated by the breath-takinglandscape.’

Clements explains: “We are going all-out tocreate a Winter Wonderland to get everyone inthe Christmas mood. After an entertainingwelcome from our themed characters, guestswill be treated to a complimentary drink tobreak the ice before being seated under a starrynight sky to enjoy a three-course banquet andI am positive they will all be keen to dance thenight away to our JackFM DJ following that!”

Tickets are on sale for half a table now (fivepeople) at £55 per person with party datesavailable from Thursday 12 December toSaturday 21 December, but be sure to be quickas dates are already starting to sell-out.Incentives are offered to those purchasing twofull tables (ten per table) in addition to drinkspackages as an alternative to the cash baroption.

Book online at: www.wegottickets.com/OxfordTownHall or contact the Oxford TownHall team for further information on T: 01865252525 or E: [email protected].

23

Shared Christmas Parties

12th - 21st December 2013

BOOK NOW!

Tickets on sale for half tables of 5 or full tables of 10 wegottickets.com/oxfordtownhall

Exclusive and individual bookings available Call 01865 252525 or email [email protected]

Meet & greet welcome by themed characters

Complementary arrival drink

3 course festive dinner

Frosted bar

Free photo booth

Jack FM DJ & disco

“With stunning architecture, feature fireplaces,wood panelling and chandeliers, Oxford Town Hallis the perfect venue to host a variety of weddings,”comments Clements. “We can accommodate thewedding ceremony and reception in one venueand make use of our many rooms so that guestsreceive a different experience in each. The teamare already doing a fantastic job with weddings somy efforts will mostly be focussed on developingother areas to attract more visitors to the TownHall.”

That said, Clements does have a fantastic idea,which may appeal to the slightly quirky bride andgroom, but before that can be revealed, he needsto ‘hold court’ to discuss the merits of applying foran additional license, which could see the groomin a dock and wedding party as judge and jurybefore even becoming Mr and Mrs!

A new chapter The present Town Hall opened on 12 May 1897by the Prince of Wales (who later became KingEdward VII) following a fiercely fought designcompetition, which received over 300 entries. Itwas eventually won by a Paris-trained architect,Henry Thomas Hare, responsible for creating theTown Hall as we know it today.

Clements is aiming to replicate the same buzz andawareness around the building with the creation ofa new chapter in Oxford Town Hall’s history that willsee it recognised as a first-rate venue forconferences, meetings, exhibitions, fairs, concerts,corporate dinners, Christmas parties and manymore social events.

The list is endless which reflects the vast potentialof an iconic venue, which successfully combinesVictorian grandeur with modern amenities.

“A lot of fantastic events already take place at theTown Hall but we haven’t been shouting aboutthem to date which is about to change. Aside from

showcasing the venue to the business communityso that its scope to woo and impress clients is trulyrealised, we will also be hosting many more OxfordTown Hall run events from comedy nights throughto concerts which will benefit Oxford residents andthe many tourists attracted to the city.”

With rooms for hire to suit all events, Oxford TownHall can host small intimate events from two - 50guests, receptions and dinner dances for 50-270,conferences with support space, including 13breakout rooms for up to 350 and concerts for upto 842 guests.

Many visitors fail to realise that a courtroom islocated within the building, which hasunquestionably appeared in Morse, in addition tojudge and jury rooms. Often used by the OxfordUniversity Debating Club, the rooms are availablefor meetings and events to provide a uniqueenvironment beyond the typical venue offering.

Clements is keen to emphasise that he has joinedan exceptional events team, which has experienceof managing and working on high profile eventsfrom the Grand National through to civicceremonies surrounded in protocol, requiring greatattention to detail to ensure success.

“Flexibility is key in the service offered by the OxfordTown Hall team. Each client is provided with adedicated event manager to ensure events gowithout a hitch and catering can either be providedthrough Oxford Town Hall’s preferred suppliers oralternatively, a client’s own supplier can be easilyaccommodated.”

A smashing event The Oxford Town Hall team has already attracted abooking for March 2014 for Smashing Conference,an international three-day event aimed at webdevelopers, which attracts prestigious sponsorssuch as Google and Wordpress and well-respectedindustry experts as speakers. This year’s

conference took place in Germany.

“The Smashing Conference will be a fantastic eventheld at Oxford Town Hall next year with the venuebeing fully utilised with a combination of highprofile speakers in the main hall through toworkshops taking place in our breakout rooms.Organisers are taking advantage of the fact Oxfordis known to the International audience it is trying toattract.”

He continues: “Oxford Town Hall has the necessarystature to support the ethos of the event to attractattendees, speakers and sponsors in addition tobeing perfectly located in the city centre with greatpublic transport links to airports and the trainstation. Many buses even stop outside of our doorso it couldn’t be more convenient!”

Clements’ target is to attract more events of thiscalibre to Oxford Town Hall and SmashingConference will clearly be a good case study tomarket the venue moving forward.

A bigger slice of pie Oxford Town Hall currently attracts approximately150,000 visitors each year when combiningMuseum visitors with events held at the venue,which is just a snip of the 9.5million visitors,attracted to the city as reported by Oxford CityCouncil.

With that in mind, combined with the 4,000businesses in Oxfordshire, Clements clearly has aready-made-market to increase footfall through thedoors of Oxford Town Hall, a challenge he is clearlylooking forward to.

To discover what’s on at Oxford Town Hall or to findout more about the venue’s facilities, visitwww.oxford.gov.uk/townhall, follow them on twitter@OxfordTownHall.


B4 LEAD

“A lot of fantastic eventsalready take place at theTown Hall but we haven’tbeen shouting aboutthem to date which isabout to change”

Alfa Romeo’s roll of honour includes victories at Le Mans,the Mille Miglia, the Targa Florio and countless Grand Prixvictories. Henry Ford used to doff his hat whenever he sawan Alfa Romeo: more recently Jeremy Clarkson describedAlfa Romeo ownership as ‘a rite of passage’. The passionand heritage of over 100 years of Alfa Romeo is distilledwithin the current Alfa Romeo range, one which you cannow see at Motor Village Oxford just outside of Kidlington.

In this article we look at the history of Alfa Romeo and hear fromB4 Ambassadors who tell us about their experiences followinga two day testing.

The Goodwood Festival of Speed

A superb line up of historic Alfa Romeo vehicles added to theaction brought at this year’s Goodwood Festival of Speed 2013.Alongside the dynamic UK debut of the Alfa 4C, show-goerswere able to see six examples from the Alfa Romeo Museumincluding the stunning 33 Stradale, the spiritual predecessor ofthe Alfa 4C.

This year Alfa Romeo celebrates the 50th anniversary ofAutodelta, its official racing division established in March 1963,and the 90th anniversary of the 'Quadrifoglio Verde', thelegendary symbol that has identified some of Alfa Romeo'ssportiest models.

Bringing everything right up to date is the Alfa 4C, the ‘LaunchEdition' of which was given its world première at the GenevaMotor Show earlier this year. Made in Italy, the Alfa 4Crepresents the true essence of a sports car, embodying theauthentic values of the Alfa Romeo brand: Italian style,performance and technical excellence, offering maximumdriving satisfaction in total safety.

Powered by a new all-aluminium, direct-injection, 240hp1750cc turbo petrol engine, developing 350Nm of torque, theimplemented state-of-the-art technical and technologicalsolutions push the Alfa 4C to reach real supercar performance,as demonstrated by a weight/power ratio of less than 4kg perhp.

"We were so excited to showcase Alfa Romeo’s future atGoodwood with the Alfa 4C, but it’s equally important to us thatwe gave festival goers a taste of our history too. Alfa’s heritageis so valuable to the company – it’s part of our DNA. You onlyhave to look at the 33 Stradale and the 4C to see that amazinglineage,’ said Damien Dally, Head of Brand at Alfa Romeo UK.

Cloverleaf

The origin of the 'Quadrifoglio Verde' (Cloverleaf) badge hasbeen lost in legend, but today the Cloverleaf is part of the ItalianAir Force's coat of arms and at the same time remains thesymbol of Alfa Romeo's philosophy, based on the constantpursuit of excellence applied to competitions, and transferredto production vehicles.

Now the Cloverleaf has returned to the Alfa Giulietta and AlfaMiTo, the new models which have assumed a place in thetradition of the best Alfa Romeos, drawing on the heritage ofdynamic performance, without compromising on efficiency,respect for the environment and convenience in everyday use.

AUTODELTA

Autodelta’s original goal was to manage Alfa Romeo's officialreturn to competitive sports after withdrawing from the F1 WorldChampionship in 1951. It’s the reason why Alfa Romeo decidedto create a special racing organisation physically detached fromthe production plant and having enough discretionary power toquickly take technical and sporting decisions. The mostprominent figure of Autodelta's fascinating history is without adoubt the charismatic engineer Carlo Chiti.

Carlo Chiti was in motorsport during one of its most romanticeras; he worked with Enzo Ferrari, helped to design cars thatwon hundreds of races, and guided drivers such as Juan ManuelFangio and Niki Lauda to many famous victories. Carlo Chiti wasat the heart of Autodelta and he played a pivotal role in AlfaRomeo’s return to motorsport.

MOTOR VILLAGE OXFORDThe Motor Village Oxford dealership has been completelytransformed and offers Alfa Romeo, Jeep and Chrysler. You willfind other Motor Village showrooms located in Croydon, WestLondon and Central London.

Come and see us at the Motor Village Oxford showroom todayand find out more about these exciting brands.

Visit us for everything you need for Alfa Romeo, Jeep andChrysler - all under one roof. In addition to all the services you’dexpect – new and used car sales, business and fleet, Motabilityand servicing , Motor Village Oxford also acts as a centre ofexcellence for these brands. With the best of the best in quality,service and experience we look forward to welcoming you soon.

www.motorvillageoxfordalfaromeo.co.uk

For over 100 years, Alfa Romeo has made cars that enthusiasts dream about – fast, stylish,distinctive and unmistakably Italian. Great designers and engineers have contributed to thelegend, as have drivers such as Nuvolari, Fangio and Tarquini. Even Enzo Ferrari started his careeras an Alfa Romeo racing driver, and later managed the Grand Prix team before starting his owncompany.

ALFA ROMEO COMESTO OXFORD



“Alfa’s heritage is so valuable to thecompany – it’s part of our DNA”

Damien Dally, Head of Brand at Alfa Romeo UK

B4 SPOTLIGHT

Think Rhodes for Business...For full information on exclusive use, meetings,

seminars, team building and conferences please call 01865 282599

or email [email protected]

Rhodes House, Oxford, OX1 3RGTelephone 01865 282 [email protected]

Amanda BakerThe Old Swan and Minster Mill

“I’m a girl who loves her car. I enjoy getting behindthe wheel and knowing if I need the power toovertake, my 2 litre won’t let me down. So when Iwas offered the chance to drive the new 1.4 litreAlfa Romeo Giulietta, I was a little apprehensive.Would it live up to my expectations?

“I was presented with the sleek, sporty Giulietta,with smooth lines and four doors. Over a period ofthree days, I was able to experience the drive invarious weather conditions and times of the day. Iwas impressed with the option of the DNA System,which meant that I could choose to drive inDynamic Mode, allowing me to experience theresponsive braking system, and giving me theability to be confident in taking corners quickly. TheNatural Mode was a great option, particularly on amotorway, when a smoother, more relaxed drivewas required. Being a girl, I’ve always been told thata couple of inches make all the difference, andwhen it came to parking I was grateful for theparking sensors, which guided me to inch-perfectparking even in the tightest of positions.

“My journey into work involves going across a tollbridge. Unfortunately, the absence of a coin holdermeant scrambling in my handbag for a 5 pencecoin. The coffee holder didn’t fit my unusually largecoffee container, which meant my required dailydose of caffeine was restricted. In addition, thoughI’m not a golfer, I did think the boot would be tootight to squeeze in a set of golf clubs.

“That being said, the car was sexy, compact, andeconomical on fuel, with attractive red leather seats.The automatic transmission was very responsive,and for a 1.4 litre I was very impressed with thepower under the bonnet.“

Tim Gilpin Heythrop Resort

“The Alfa Romeo Giulietta is a good looking car. Theinterior was very nice and the dash well laid out

with good visual features. The alloys were great andreally added value to the looks. I liked the wholeinterior and it had a real sporty feel, the onlycriticism would be that it didn’t feel premium butahead of the middle class. Good boot space butnot so much for rear passengers, however, Iwouldn’t think this is pointed at the family typemarket

“I really enjoyed the drive. A comfortable andresponsive drive with enough power without thegas guzzling fuel. I probably didn’t test the DNAenough on different roads because, to be fair, Ididn’t get a distinct change in drive. My only issuewas I found the clutch too high and difficult to getused to. My knee was quite high when not in use.It didn’t raise an eyebrow but I must admit it didhold its own.

“I got quite attached with the car to be honest andthe more I drove it, the more I enjoyed it. Would Ibuy one? If I was in the market for this categorythen I think it would definitely have to be in with ashout. I think it does everything very well. What doI remember negatively? For me I just wasn’t fondof the front but I loved the back. The drive didn’tsparkle me but I did enjoy it and overall I liked thecar.

Emma LuddenAdvertising and Design

“On initial viewing, the Mito looked like a stylish 3door hatchback. I was right too. Not only does theexterior deliver, with its modern, sophisticated style,it continues to impress when you step into the car.The Mito is both spacious and comfortable which,for a 3-door hatchback, was a surprise.

“The dashboard and graphics are well designedand the interior design is innovative and styles itselfwell as an ’Alfa’ with a modern edge. As I wouldexpect from an Alfa Romeo, there would be thatlittle extra something that makes it special.

“The first was the personality. Alfa has not lost itsway with this car which shows why the reputationAlfa has spent years to build, and is renowned for,will live on in this Mito hatchback.

“The second was the air vents. A part of a car mostwould not consider as a reason to buy I grant youbut the functionality of these are the best I haveever experienced and I hope have won or do win

an award.

The Mito is presented as being the world’s sportiestcompact car. It did feel like I was in sports car,which is an achievement considering I felt anythingbut compact. I drove the 1.3 diesel Mito sprint andit did just that. It has an advanced system thatallows you to change the dynamics of the caraccording to your driving needs. I got to test the‘dynamic’ and ’natura’ features and was reallyimpressed at the differences I noticed in the feeland handling of the car. The Mito becomes evenmore appealing when you look beyond the sportscar features and discover the efficiency and safetyaspects to this car.

It truly is a remarkable Supermini that has to bedriven to be appreciated.

Rupert Leigh-WoodCarter Jonas

I thought the Mito, over the two days, to be a veryenjoyable car to drive both in the city andcountryside. Externally the car was very stylish withround tail lights, a smart badge and a sporty look.Alfa Romeo’s have always been known to be verystylish and this model did not disappoint. InternallyI was surprised by the amount of space available,the comfortable driving position and the quality offinish. The boot was of a generous size and theonly slight issue I had was the rear view could havebeen better.

Above all though was the drive the Mito offered.The steering was crisp and the engine had enoughtorque through all the gears. The gear box wasexcellent and the drive on the A roads waseffortless. My only reservation was that it couldhave benefited from having a sixth gear.

I would thoroughly recommend this car as it isstylish, handles well and has just the right amountof power coupled with sound handling. It wascertainly a bind to let it go and made the return tomy usual car a rather disappointing experience.

For enquiries, please contact Cristiano atMotor Village Oxford on 01865 376 000.

Motor Village Oxford, Banbury Road, Shiptonon Cherwell, Kidlington, Oxon, OX5 1JH.

B4 ALFA ROMEO AMBASSADOR REVIEWS


B4 SPOTLIGHT

Photography: Rob Scotcher


Oxford Inspires hosted their annual Cultural Platform event on the 17thMay at The Old Fire Station in Oxford. Over 80 delegates attended theevent from both the business and cultural sector. Guest celebrity speakerwas BBC Arts Correspondent, Will Gompertz who gave an inspiring talkon how we all should think and behave like artists in order to besuccessful in all walks of life.

Witney Corn Exchange: Oxford Inspires continues to support Witney TownCouncil through their proposed redevelopment of Witney Corn Exchangeinto an Arts Centre. Having commissioned a detailed feasibility study, OxfordInspires is now developing an application to Heritage Lottery Fund and callingupon experts to provide the information required for a robust application.

Cultural Tourism Research & Development: Oxford Inspires is nearing thecompletion of the 3 month research and development period into potentialareas of growth in cultural tourism in Oxfordshire, Oxford Inspires hosted around table meeting at The Ashmolean on 12th July. 20 people were invitedfrom across the cultural and tourism sectors and John Prebble attended fromArts Council England to announce the launch of the 3 million pound fundingstream ‘Cultural Destinations’. The discussions were constructive andhighlighted the potential for growth, particularly in the groups market. Oxford

Inspires will write an application in partnership with Visit Oxfordshire and anumber of other consortium members to be agreed. Only 15 consortium bidswill be successful across the UK and up to £350K may be applied for.

Creative Literacy project: Oxford Inspires raised the funds for The ‘LearningThrough Stories’ creative literacy project to complement the work of our localauthorities and the project was successfully launched at The Story Museum on26th June. The author Geraldine McCaughrean gave an emotive speech andthere were also remarks from Leader of the Council, Bob Price, Jane Bryant,Director of Artswork and Jacqui Ibbotson. The project, designed to enhancethe City Council’s own literacy and leadership programme, will be delivered byThe Story Museum and Pegasus Theatre, using storytelling, creative writing,drama, visual arts and music and will run from September 2013 to March 2015.

100 Years of Car Making in Oxford: Oxford Inspires continues to supportand promote Oxfordshire’s celebrations for our centenary of car making.William Morris was the driving force behind this innovative industry and rosefrom humble beginnings in Oxford to become a multi-millionaire who donatedhuge sums of money to medical research. For details of these and more Carcentenary events, go visit www.visitoxfordandoxfordshire.com.

Oxford Inspires is the cultural development agency for Oxfordshire. We work with partners in business, local government, with Arts Council England,The University of Oxford and Oxford Brookes University to create new opportunities for arts and heritage organisations, nurture new festivals andspectacular events and to engage as many people as possible in exciting cultural experiences. We collaborate with cultural organisations across thecounty to support their ambitions, help them to reach a wider audience and, together with our new bedfellows at Visit Oxfordshire, to raise Oxfordshire’sprofile as a cultural destination nationally and internationally.

Experience Oxfordshire is the county’s development agency for cultureand tourism.

BBC Arts Correspondent, Will Gompertz

www.oxfordinspires.org

Visit Oxfordshire has started work on the 2014destination guide promoting Oxford andOxfordshire as a key short break destination inthe UK.

It will be a 36 page A4 brochure highlighting thebest Oxfordshire has to offer with a 40,000 printrun and 25,000 will be distributed to onlineconsumers. The guide will also be developed into

a brochure app and available to download throughour website at www.visitoxfordandoxfordshire.comfor more information please contact KellyMills-Dudley - [email protected]

news

www.b4-business.com www.visitoxfordandoxfordshire.com 31

2014 Visit Oxfordshire Destination Guide

The Summer Garden Party was held on the 3rd July at Rhodes House andit was a great success. We had 26 exhibitors and over 120 delegatesattended. Initial feedback from the exhibitors has been positive and theyare asking for this event to take place next year.

The enquiry handling service has now come back in house and is managed byThea Howe, a review is also taking place of the websitewww.meetoxfordshire.com which promotes Oxfordshire as a world classdestination for conferences and events – if you would like to find out moreabout Meet Oxfordshire please contact the team on 01865 252799 or followus on twitter @meetoxfordshire

Meet Oxfordshire

How do I get involved?Whether your business is aimed at the leisure or business tourism market, full information on how to become a partner of Visit Oxfordshire can befound at www.visitoxfordshire.org. Partnership levels range from just £125 to £10,000 per annum, and all levels include membership of TourismSouth East. For more details on how your business can join Visit Oxfordshire please contact Martin Tipping: [email protected]

Rhodes House

Visit Oxfordshire attending the first Flower show at Blenheim Palace inJune promoting all the wonderful gardens of Oxfordshire.

The event was very successful and lots of visitors were delighted to find outmore about what there is to see and do in this amazing county

Blenheim Palace Flower Show

Visit Oxfordshire has designed a new map of the county highlighting allthe great things to see and do in the area.

If you would like to display a copy of the map or hand out to your visitors pleaseemail us at [email protected] for a pdf version

New Places of Interest Map

A new group and travel trade campaign hasbeen launched to promote Oxfordshire as afavorite destination for group organizers andtour operators. Visit Oxfordshire values theimportance of this market sector and has tailor

made a targeted campaign to attract groups.

The cost of this campaign is £349 and includespromotion on the new groups area on the websitewww.visitoxfordandoxfordshire.com, inclusions in

group itineraries and representation at Group andTravel Trade fairs. For more information on thiscampaign and all the other marketing activities fromVisit Oxfordshire please visitwww.visitoxfordshire.org/get_involved

Group and Travel Trade Campaign 2013/14

Let YourCreativityOut

BA/BSc (Hons)

Audio Production*BA/BSc (Hons)

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01865 787 150Email: [email protected] Open Day // November 9th

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Audio Production*

01865 787 150

Valid Validated by Middlesex University*

Digital Film Making*BA/BSc (Hons)

Audio Production*

01865 787 150

alidated by Middlesex University

Digital Film Making*BA/BSc (Hons)

Audio Production*

Digital Film Making*

Audio Production*

Email: [email protected] 787 150

Email: [email protected] 787 150

Open Day // November 9thEmail: [email protected]

Open Day // November 9th

Open Day // November 9th

Team leader, Jim Astle, a grizzled lawyer of 37 years’ experience, is nostranger to murder, rape, or serious fraud. He took a break last week froma high profile government fraud case to help a PLC director suspected ofrape. Poacher-gamekeeper, he sits as Chairman on the Solicitors’Disciplinary Tribunal, regulator of the road haulage and bus industry andcriminal court judge.

Martin Bourne, the team’s intellectual star 20 years with Darbys, is ascomfortable with razor-sharp argument to save a driving licence as getting intoHigh Court law reports. He regularly advises other professionals on moneylaundering matters, financial crime and disciplinary transgressions.

Michael Geeson, with 25 years’ experience and respected by fellow lawyersas a reliable practitioner recently successfully defended the great grandson ofa Lord Chief Justice charged with rape. Regularly instructed by central & localgovernment to prosecute regulatory matters, he also uses his specialistknowledge successfully to defend.

Simon Graham-Harrison, with 17 years’ experience of criminal and regulatoryoffences, is massively busy across the piste. He specialises in road haulageregulatory law and coroner’s inquests. Recently he successfully represented an

Oxford don whose best friend, an Oxford Professor, died under his restraintafter the psychotic Professor attacked him.

Amy Holden, a popular and rising young star, last year successfully defendeda senior philatelist accused of stealing rare stamps from a vulnerable fellow-collector. She earned the unstinting praise of a senior accountant corporatefinance director charged with harassment and has recently been advising amajor private school in disciplinary matters getting an A* report from theheadmistress.

The highly stressful work requires 24/7 availability so the team members enjoytheir free time. Jim, a Governor of his local school, plays cricket, sails and walksthe fells in his native Cumberland and in Wales. Martin is a fanaticallyenthusiastic sportsman and athlete and shares his enthusiasm with his twoyoung children. Michael, a county and club cricket coach, organises training fora multitude of local children. You cross Simon at your peril on the five-a-sidefootball pitch. He also likes breakfasts. Amy is a karate black belt and keepsthe other four in order professionally and socially.

They will not let you down: 01865 811704 (out-of-hours 07764 378 648)and [email protected] with cc [email protected]

Your livelihood or liberty at stake? Call Darbys Crime & Regulatory Team, ranked in Chambers and Legal 500 directories.Won’t happen to you? Editor of the News of the World one day; fighting to stay out of jail the next? 30 years a doctorbut facing strike-off by the GMC? A speeding offence risks a 6 months’ disqualification and you can’t do your jobwithout your car?

DEFENDING YOU WHENTHE CHIPS ARE DOWN!


B4 ADVICEL to R: Michael Geeson - Consultant and Jim Astle - Partner

Photography: ww

w.studio-8.co.uk

Officially opened by HRH Prince Charles inFebruary this year, the West Wing on Park EndStreet represents a £28 million investment,providing conference and event facilities to thehighest possible standard. B4 members canbear testament to the unequalled facilitieswhich provide students and visitors with afantastic choice of spaces and hospitality areasboth inside and out.

Martin is responsible for promoting the two CityCentre venues for conferences, meetings andevents and having started his role earlier in 2013,is obviously taken with the capabilities of both

venues. ‘I am extremely impressed by the facilitiesat both sites and the exceptional quality of serviceoffered to customers by the conference andoperations teams. I look forward to developingrelationships with organisations in the region andwelcoming events into our stunning venues.”

“The West Wing was designed by Dixon Jones,whose previous projects include the Royal OperaHouse, so that gives you an idea of the standardswe have sought to emulate. Key highlights includethree oak-panelled Harvard-style lecture theatres,each seating up to 75 delegates, three large flexibleclassrooms, and 18 boardroom style seminar rooms.“My favourite space is at the heart of the West

Wing. The Club Room comprises a bar, loungespace, terrace and views across private gardens,which is the perfect space for refreshments, adrinks reception and networking. The Club Roomoffers a wow factor to any event, with exotic rugsand leather Chesterfields adding a classic touch tothe design. It’s our hub, a grown up CommonRoom if you like, not at all stuffy, providing theperfect escape after a hard day’s lectures ofpresentations, with lots of natural light flooding inand comfortable sofas to sink into.”

Banquet or buffet dining is available in threesecond-floor private dining rooms with panoramic

views over Oxford’s dreaming spires. They’re allabout space, with a central buffet area whereofferings of the highest quality were on display aswe wandered through this tardis like building,which is packed full of the latest energy savingideas to keep it as efficient as possible, as Martinexplains. “The West Wing was designed withgeothermal energy being used for heating andcooling, rainwater harvesting being used to flushtoilets, and solar energy contributing to waterheating.”

The West Wing’s older brother is accessible througha corridor to the side of the main reception, and isliterally a few paces away as Martin continues. “The

new facilities augment the original building whichincludes a 300 seat auditorium, 5 Harvard-stylelecture theatres, 2 large classrooms and a widevariety of seminar rooms. The impressive entrancehall offers a flexible space for registration,exhibitions and catering, whilst the 400 seatoutdoor amphitheatre offers a truly stunning andunique option for an event. Although Park EndStreet is set in the heart of the city and in closeproximity to a variety of world class attractions, thepretty courtyard and beautiful garden ensure an airof calm and tranquillity is brought to the venue.” Incontrast to the West Wing's peaceful courtyard, theentrance to the main building is imposing and

instantly recognisable to anyone passing throughPark End Street.

For clients looking for a more residential course, theideal solution is Egrove Park, based just outside ofKennington, a ten minute cab ride from Park EndStreet.

“Situated in its own grounds of 37 acres ofparkland, Egrove Park is just two miles from thecentre of Oxford. Our purpose built residentialcentre offers a first-class venue for businessmeetings of any kind, whether you need asecluded setting in which the board can discussstrategy, or conference facilities to suit the larger

I doubt there’s a B4 reader not familiar with the brilliant Saïd Business School in Oxford City Centre, a stone’s throwfrom the train station and a hive of business intelligence. Combine that with the versatile Egrove Park, just two milesfrom the City Centre and you have a brilliant alliance of venues. However, there’s now a third stunning venue, andit’s turning heads. Richard Rosser met The West Wing’s Space Allocation and Events Manager, Martin Garside.

THE WONDERFULWEST WING


management team.

“The rooms are equipped with the latest audio-visualequipment, many enjoying views of the stunninggrounds. Egrove Park is located just off Oxford’ssouthern bypass, offering easy access to delegateswith ample free parking. There are 63 en-suitebedrooms offering exceptional value and comfort,including television, toiletries and complimentaryinternet access.

“There are a wide range of conference and meetingrooms at Egrove Park, including the Clifford BarclayLecture Theatre seating up to 110 delegates, aselection of flexible classrooms and sixteen syndicate

rooms, most of which seat 6 to 10 delegates. Thebar is the perfect place to meet up with businessassociates, whilst the dining room offers catering fora variety of functions including breakfast, buffet lunchand dinner or private dining.

“The beautiful grounds are perfect for outdooractivities, including barbecues and receptions, whilstdelegates are able to unwind using leisure facilitiesincluding an all-weather surface for tennis andfootball, gymnasium and croquet lawn. The extensivegrounds are also the perfect setting for a relaxingwalk or invigorating jog.”

www.sbs.ox.ac.uk

Why not take advantage of Martin’s offerbelow or register for the B4 event inNovember to experience The West Wingfor yourself?

B4 Readers OfferMartin would like to offer B4 readers a20% discount from the Day Delegate Ratefor new bookings for dates in 2013. Theoffer is subject to availability and cannot beused in conjunction with any other offer.Please quote B4B2013 when making anenquiry. E: [email protected]: 01865 610078.

For enquiries for Egrove Park pleasecontact Jill Grieveson on 01865 422757and for Park End Street enquiriesplease contact Clare Andrews or Lisa Quinnon either 01865 288847 or 01865288846. Alternatively, please [email protected].

B4 Lecture Friday 8th NovemberWhy not book into the next B4 seminar onFriday 8th November featuring LloydsCommercial, CIS, Sophos and morespeakers to be announced. Log on towww.b4-business.com for more details andto register.

B4 Showcase 2014Interested in presenting or attending our2014 Showcase at The West Wing in 2014?More details to be announced but if youwould like to present your business at TheWest Wing, exhibit or simply attend theevent, please register your interest by e-mailing [email protected].

OFFER SLECTURES& SHOWCASES


B4 SPOTLIGHT

breckon.co.uk

Could your next home be one of Oxford’s hidden treasures?

Do you own a gem that could be someone’s dream?Either way we’d love to help. We have a huge database of buyers and tenants looking for their next ideal home, so if you’re thinking of selling or letting your home we’d love to hear from you.

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Our “Sprintwise” Management Print Service (MPS)is designed entirely around you! It frees you up tofocus on what really matters – your business. Wemanage your print and document infrastructure foryou, ensuring that at all times you have the rightcombination of fully functioning and supportedhardware and software for your business needs.

How does it help you?By pulling all the print-related equipment aroundyour business together and managing it as oneconsolidated infrastructure, you should expect toreduce the total number of devices you need. Thisconsolidation is also an opportunity for you to

control how the equipment is used, and drive yourtotal document volumes down.

A fully managed infrastructure will deliverincreased resilience and securityWith reduced waste and environmental impact, youshould look to optimise the paper processes andworkflows you operate in-house. Your new printinfrastructure can be used to digitise and automateyour paper workflows which will drive up efficiencyand staff productivity.

Don’t under-estimate where an MPS candeliver benefits

These can often come from surprising areas andgenerate soft cost savings too. Our clientsconsistently tell us how our pro-active servicing hasslashed the number of calls their in-house ITService desks receive, freeing up valuable skilledstaff to redeploy on value-added projectselsewhere in-house.

Providing a full Managed Print Service experiencerequires an extensive range of knowledgeand expertise which is why Sprintwise ispowered by our partner Balreed, one ofthe UK’s leading providers of MPS. Certified toISO9001 and ISO14001 international standards,

Your company stores information which could bea huge risk to your business in the wrong hands.According to the BBC Money Programme the costof identity theft in the UK is approximately £1.7bnand increasing at the phenomenal rate of 500% ayear. This has become the most costly security riska business faces.

Is shredding a legal requirement?Shredding is not a legal requirement, but takingthe proper steps to secure information is. Everybusiness has to securely dispose of confidentialinformation, including customer lists, clientinformation, credit card receipts, personal files orpayroll records. It's vital to protect and secureinformation that could be used to steal identities.

The Information Commissioner's Office (ICO) hasthe power to issue penalties up to £500,000 if abusiness is found in breach of the Data ProtectionAct. Under this act, an organisation should notdiscard intact customer, staff or supplierinformation, and shredding offers the mostenvironmentally friendly solution.

How Aston and James can help!Let us help you. We can shred, bale and ensurethat your shredded paper is recycled back intoproducts, such as kitchen paper or facial tissues.

Alternatively, we have over 80 shredders in ourcatalogue suitable for offices of any size. Fromhome office to large heavy duty machines, andfrom basic security (A4 into 30 pieces) to

maximum security (A4 into 15,000 pieces), wehave the right shredder for you. Many of themachines we supply take staples, paperclips andCDs to make life easier. We will identify theperfect shredder or option to meet your needs.

In today's busy working environment, we've had anincreased demand for our secure shreddingsolution. Introducing a secure shredding solutionwill reduce the number of important documentsslipping through the net illegally and possibly intoa waste paper bin.

Shredding in 4 simple stepsWe will work with you to implement the mostsuitable and cost effective shredding solution foryour office supplying different sized consoles orwheelie bins with a lock and a slot, or secure sackswhich can be ordered along with your officesupplies, online or via the telephone.

Step 1 - Fill upOnce your solution is agreed, you then fill theconsoles, bins or secure sacks with the important

documentation to be shredded. You don't evenhave to remove staples or paperclips.

Step 2 - CollectWhen containers are full, we will collect. You caneither call us when you are ready for collection, orwe can schedule a weekly, fortnightly or 4 weeklycollection. Once your documents are collected,we will be able to provide you with a certificatefor your records.

Step 3 - ShredDepending on your organisation's securityrequirements, we can then either shred yourdocuments on-site using a mobile shredding truck,or we can safely transport them to one of oursecure shredding facilities with a robust audit trail.

Step 4 - RecycleOnce your documents have been shredded, theywill be taken to a secure recycling facility where thepaper is then baled and then sent for recycling.

Providing a shredding solution requires a high levelof expertise, so we've partnered with a leadingindependent on-site and off-site secure destructionservice provider. Combining the strengths of beingnational and local, The Shredding Alliance (TSA)delivers a flexible and personal service with 12depots across the UK. All of the companies thatown or deliver services to TSA are members of theBritish Security Industry Association, and they gofurther than their competitors to ensure the highestlevels of compliance to BS EN 15713:2009.

NEW SERVICES AVAILABLE FROMASTON AND JAMES – SECURESHREDDING AND MANAGEDPRINT SERVICE (MPS)

“Shredding is not a legal requirement, buttaking the propersteps to secure information is”

MANAGED PRINT SERVICE – SPEND LESS TIME AND MONEY ON PRINTING!

SECURE SHREDDING - PROTECT YOUR BUSINESS, STAFF AND CLIENTS!


you can rely on the highest levels of quality andprofessionalism. As a nationwide independent,Balreed can supply and service a wide range oftechnology from the world’s leading manufacturers,so the optimal mix of hardware, software andservices can be combined and tailored to yourunique business.

Manage all your print needs in just 4 simplesteps

Step 1 - MeasureWe will conduct a thorough assessment of yourcurrent equipment and staff usage, and measureyour key document processes against yourbusiness objectives to inform our strategy.

Step 2 - DesignWe will design the optimal infrastructure for youwhich may include retaining some devices youalready have, rationalising the fleet down to theright size and mix, and introducing new technologyas required. We will also agree the accountmanagement, servicing and support required. Formany clients our consolidated billing service provesinvaluable and is another major benefit of MPS.

Step 3 - ImplementTransitioning to your new MPS and equipment issimple and straightforward. To minimise disruptionwe pre-configure all equipment to network IPaddress level at our national logistics facility. We alsohave a dedicated Client Support Team who willprovide training support for your staff on-site, or viavideo-link, user guides and telephone support.Certified to ISO9001 and ISO14001 internationalstandards, you can rely on the highest levels ofquality and professionalism from Balreed andSprintwise MPS.

Step 4 - DeliverWe promise pro-active monitoring of yourequipment; just-in-time delivery of consumablesbefore you need them; real meter readings takenfrom your equipment automatically and pre-emptive fleet management to maximise youruptime. Our Managed Print Service will pre-emptmany potential issues but when you need on-siteservice we are committed to respond rapidly withfirst time fix rates of over 93%. Live remotemonitoring of your equipment by Balreed can alsodeliver real value. As well as minimising the needfor your staff to intervene with devices, order andmanage toner cartridges, or give meter readings,you will also see reduced demands on your internalIT support desk as Balreed pro-actively managesyour devices.

www.aston-james.co.uk

Where to go from here? Contact us today on 01993 706900 [email protected] and quote ‘B4magazine’ to find out more about theseservices. We will work with you todevelop the right option to suit yourbusiness and its needs.

“We manage your print and document infrastructure for you, ensuring that at alltimes you have theright combination offully functioning andsupported hardwareand software foryour business

needs”

B4 SERVICES

The Oakley Court Hotel has vast experience of hosting major conferences in stunning surroundings making it an inspired choice of venue. Hold your conference at Oakley Court and you’ll impress, captivate and inspire your delegates.

We guarantee the very best in service standards offering conference suites and executive boardrooms within a prestigious location. Our unique rooms range from original rooms in the Mansion House which are over 150 years old with high ceilings and original features, to a purpose built function room called The Boathouse on the banks of the River Thames.

It’s not only the picturesque riverside setting that creates the wow factor; extensive leisure rt in creating a memorable

conference.

An inspired choice of venue

At A Glance Dedicated Meeting and Conference Coordinators

rence facilities for up to 170 Executive boardrooms for 4 – 30 Extensively equipped to meet your requirements

rence caféTraining

Tailor made all inclusive packages

rt

ry waterry kit

re facilities for overnight delegates – indoor pool, gymnasium, tennis and 9 hole par 3 golf course

3

The Oakley Court Hotel, Windsor Road, Water Oakley, Windsor, SL4 5UR Tel: 01753 609988 www.principal-hayley.com/theoakleycourt

A HOTEL WITH CHARACTER

T


Although ADS Advertising and Design, one ofOxfordshire's leading advertising and designagencies, has been established for 26 years, itsapproach to service delivery today, is as freshas the day it started.

The company's continued success, says DirectorKaren Roberts, is due as much to the wealth ofexpertise it has amassed among its staff, as to theclose relationships it has built up with localbusiness owners and the media.

Emma Ludden joined the company in April thisyear as Sales and Business Development Manager,bringing with her just the right skills to complementthe team - in an agency which prides itself ontailoring a wide range of services to suit eachindividual client's needs.

"I have always wanted to work with people," saysEmma, "and began my career in the hospitalityindustry.” As a Conference and Events Manger sheworked with some well known UK venuesincluding the International Convention Centre inBirmingham, Heythrop Park, and The Crazy Bear.But the anti-social hours eventually took their tolland she decided to move into a sales role whichwould have less impact on her private life.

Emma joined Newsquest, the third largestpublisher of regional and local newspapers in theUK, at its Oxford base, as an Advertising SalesConsultant in the education sector, moving later to

work on the digital media team. It was while in thisrole that Director Karen Roberts became one ofEmma's business customers, as she explains: "Weencourage our staff to genuinely get to know ourclients and their businesses, and having workedwith Emma as her client, I was impressed by herpersonal and professional approach and askedwhether she could consider joining our team."

As for Emma, she was delighted to be offered theopportunity to work with a well-established agency,working across all media platforms where shewould personally be involved with many differentprojects.

"I needed a new challenge and was excited at theprospect of helping companies with a broad rangeof services, from designing business cards to amarketing strategy or full advertising campaign,"she says.

The stance of always being prepared to work withclients, no matter how big or small the project, isjust one of the attributes which sets ADS apartfrom other advertising and design agencies.Whether it's a full marketing strategy or a fewhundred business cards, clients receive the same,individual service and attention.

Emma is working alongside Caroline O'Connor,who joined ADS three years ago from a sales roleat Heart FM. Caroline's strong radio backgroundalong with Emma's complementary media and

events experience combine to make an impressiveteam to help take the business forward.

ADS recognises that the business environment isconstantly changing, which means, more than ever,that companies have to get their marketing mixright. Emma brings a strong work ethic to theagency, which sits comfortably with its approach ofproviding a streamlined, informed and professionalapproach to offering expert advice, yet at the sametime being sure to allow the client to always remainin the driving seat.

Emma strongly believes that paying attention todetail and listening are two of the most valuableskills required if you are to really understand aclient's business, to know what they need andwhere they want to go.

"I am proud to work for ADS. Not only do I enjoygoing to work every day, but I know that our clientsare always satisfied with the job we do and I lookforward to playing my part in ensuring that theexcellent reputation of ADS continues, or becomeseven stronger."

Emma doesn't say whether working every day inthe idyllic setting of the Blenheim Palace Estate alsoplayed a part in her accepting the position at ADS,but we have a sneaky feeling that if asked, shewouldn't deny it!

adsoxford.co.uk

Emma Ludden is one of the latest recruits to bring her expertise to the team at ADS, working at its officesin the historic setting of the Blenheim Palace Estate.

SATISFACTION GUARANTEED

B4 SPOTLIGHT

Photography: ww

w.studio-8.co.uk

I don’t want to make a big thing about thedoors, but you can’t help but admire them,but equally as impressive are the fantasticnew offices which are now home to thefifteen strong Strutt & Parker team. Awelcoming reception area is flanked by theEstate Agency team on one side and acustomer meeting area on the other, behindwhich sits the Development & Planning andFarming & Land Management teams, in oneopen-planned environment.

As Miles Collison, Partner, Development & Planningexplains.

“We wanted the office to be bright, modern andinviting reflecting the ethos of the firm and therange of services that we can offer our clients.Whether it is a city or country house sale, planningand development advice or rural estatemanagement, we have experts who can advise.The firm is owned and managed by 55 equityPartners who drive the philosophy of the

Partnership forward to the ultimate benefit of ourclients who see a joined up approach in everythingwe do.”

As Alex McEntyre, an Associate in the Estate Agencyteam explains, this is crucial to the success of thenew office. “It’s fantastic that we have such a wealthof experience in the office with room to grow anddevelop and a design which stimulates interaction.”

The Oxford office is the 50th office of Strutt &Parker, with 10 being in central London. The firm isalso the only UK affiliate of Christie’s InternationalReal Estate network, with 920 affiliate officesworldwide from New York to Hong Kong andeverywhere in between. Its luxury property websiteis viewed by more than 135,600 potential buyersin 41 countries every month meaning that the firmis now well connected globally, with the reach andrelationships to match your property to the idealbuyer, wherever they are in the world.

In terms of experience, the Oxford office has it in

abundance with well over one hundred years ofcombined experience in each of the three areaspreviously referred to. Mark Smith heads up theEstate Agency team of five and has over 28 yearsexperience in the Oxford market. Tom Richardsonis the firm’s Deputy Senior Partner with a wealth ofrural estate management experience and has beenwith the firm for over 30 years. Mark Junipercompletes the Rural Consultancy & Managementteam having moved from the firm’s Newbury officeto build on the large rural client base. Miles himselfhas been advising clients in Oxfordshire for wellover 15 years on a wide range of residential andmixed use development matters.

As Alex explains, “In a competitive market gettinginstructions from a standing start requires a creativeapproach to set ourselves apart. We are delightedwith the reaction we have had so far, and have anumber of initiatives coming up which we areconfident will boost our presence in the area.”

To show their fresh approach, Strutt & Parker have

Ranking as one of the UK’s top three property consultancies, Strutt & Parker have recently opened theirsmart red doors in Summertown, North Oxford behind which you will find a property firm bursting with arefreshing enthusiasm and invigoratingly innovative approach. B4’s Richard Rosser met with Miles Collisonand Alex McEntyre of Strutt & Parker.

STRUTT & PARKER


“We wanted the officeto be bright, modernand inviting reflectingthe ethos of the firmand the range of

services that we canoffer our clients”

Miles Collison, Partner, Development Land and New Homes

been handing out crisp red apples in theCovered Market and will soon be delivering5,000 pairs of red socks through letterboxes inOxford emblazoned with our slogan ‘We’ll WorkOur Socks Off!’.

On the 28th September Strutt & Parker will holdtheir National Open House Day, where all of thefirm’s clients are asked to open their doors toanyone wishing to view, explains Alex. “There areno appointments needed, and at the last suchevent, the firm had over 2,500 viewings andreceived over £110,000,000 worth of offersfrom the day, which was phenomenal. It is a veryeffective sales event and we also get instructionsjust for the day, so if your property isn’t movingunder your existing agent, give us a call.”

In respect to his own team, Miles has seen a bigincrease in activity and is looking forward to abusy Autumn market. “Through hard work on thedevelopment & planning side of the business,we are winning some fantastic instructions and

have seen very definite signs of growth in theland market. Government initiatives such as‘Help to Buy’, and a general freeing up of finance,have stimulated activity and house-builders arestrongly back in the market.”

Miles and Alex are keen to stress that Strutt &Parker are very much City and Country agents,operating effectively in both markets, withspecialists throughout the group which can beenlisted to support you as and when required.As Miles concludes, “We’re a modern firm withtraditional values and an enthusiasm to workwith the local market and provide a first classservice.” There’s no doubt that the team at Strutt& Parker are open for business and whether it’sa big shiny apple, a pair of socks or those big reddoors that hooks you in, the team is ready to dobusiness.

www.struttandparker.com


n Founded in 1885 by Edward Strutt & CharlesParker.

n S&P is a privately owned partnership with 55equity partners who run and own a share of S&P.

n S&P have a network of 50 offices across Englandand Scotland employing over 800 staff.

n The firm has over £3.5 billion worth ofresidential properties on its books - from£250,000 country cottages to multi-millionpound London homes and sporting estates.

n Each month there are over 400,000 propertysearches on the S&P website.

n The firm’s national database has over 24,000applicants across the country, actively looking forproperty.

n Currently providing development & planningadvice on 20,000 acres in the UK.

n Handling sites with potential for 200,000homes.

n 2 million acres of land managed across the UK.

n Nationally they manage over 100,000 hectaresof land under Environmental StewardshipSchemes.

n S&P carry out crop management on over40,000 hectares of arable land.

n £150 million rent roll managed for S&P clients

ABOUTSTRUTT & PARKER

B4 PROPERTY

JAZZ AT THE CAFÉEvery Sunday 6.00-9.00pm.

We feature the cream of the jazz scene from allover the South of England as well as some of thetop local names and present a different style of jazzevery week, from gypsy through swing, latin andblues. The majority we put on are vocal acts andthe jazz is proving very popular with our customers.

TASTINGS

We present informal and fun tastings every twoweeks at the Café, on a Tuesday. These alternatebetween Theo’s Tasty Tuesdays (a humorousintroduction to the world of wine) and tastingspresented by well known Masters of Wine andWinemakers. These are never formal events – theyare designed to be accessible to everyone,whatever their interests in wine may be. To seewhat’s coming up please look at our website:www.oxfordwinecafe.co.uk or fill in a card at the barto join our mailing list and receive full details of allthese events, both in the Café and at The OxfordWine Company.

PRIVATE TASTINGS FOR YOU

You can book your own tasting in the Café whereeach person is given 6 glasses of wine and tastingnotes on them and you can taste at your ownspeed. Or, across the road at Portabello RestaurantTheo Sloot can present fun tasting games andevents for corporate or private parties alike – seeThe Blind Tasting Challenge on the website.

PRIVATE ROOM HIRE

The Café has become a popular corporate hirevenue that many have taken advantage of –including Nick Clegg who booked the room in thelate Spring! Have a look at our website for details.

FOOD SPECIALS

Keep an eye on the blackboard at the Café forwhat’s new on the food front or try our large rangeof delicious coffees and aromatic teas and chill outwith the Wi-Fi during the day – many do!

BEST PRICES

Because The Oxford Wine Company ships from allover the world we are able to bring you wine fromsource and command the very best prices whichwe are happy to pass on to you. Consequently ourby the glass selection starts at just £2.95 per glass.We also offer a full and varied range of wines in ourby the bottle selection which starts from £14.95,as well as a range of approximately 100 winesavailable to take home with you.

The Oxford Wine Café, 38 South Parade,Oxford OX2 7JN. Tel: 01865 236959

Opening hours:Mon-Fri 8.30am-11.00pmSat 10.00am-11.00pmSun 10.00am-10.00pmManager: Louise [email protected]

www.oxfordwinecafe.co.ukwww.oxfordwine.co.uk


Events at The Oxford Wine Café

news

BUYThis section covers outright purchase for cash or bybank loan, etc.

Accounting treatmentFrom an accounting viewpoint the actual cost of theasset is capitalised in the balance sheet and anannual charge for depreciation is shown in theaccounts as an expense in the profit and lossaccount. This therefore has the effect of showingthe asset(s) in the balance sheet at cost, reducedby the cumulative charge for depreciation.

The annual depreciation charge is calculated inaccordance with accounting standards, based onthe useful economic life of the asset and theresidual value.

Tax treatmentThe actual charge for depreciation is not allowedfor tax purposes, as this is replaced by capitalallowances, which is HM Revenue & Customsdeduction regime for allowing capital expenditureagainst chargeable profits. The first £100,000 ofexpenditure each year on plant and equipment,excluding cars, qualifies for a 100 per cent capitalallowance deduction. Expenditure in excess of£100,000 enters either the 10 per cent pool or the20 per cent pool, attracting a writing downallowance (WDA) at the appropriate rate.

Any business that invests in energy-saving or water-efficient technology is entitled to claim a 100 percent first year allowance. Cars with CO2 emissionsof up to 110 g/km also qualify for a 100 per centfirst year allowance. Cars with CO2 emissions of upto 110 g/km will also qualify for a 100 per cent firstyear allowance. Cars with CO2 emissions that aregreater than 110 g/km and up to 160 g/km will beallocated to the main pool and attract the 20 percent writing down allowance. Cars with CO2emissions exceeding 160 g/km will enter thespecial rate pool and attract WDA at 10 per cent.

A 100 per cent capital allowance is also availablefor new or unused (i.e. not second hand) vans thatdo not produce any CO2 emissions.

The finance charge in the accounts is normallyallowed against tax.

VatUnless the asset is a car, the VAT shown on thesupplier's invoice will generally be recoverable bythe purchaser, if he or she is registered. Buying atthe beginning of a VAT period will entail a wait ofthree months or more to recover the tax. VAT oncars is recoverable only in very rare circumstances.

HIRE PURCHASEA HP agreement usually includes an option topurchase at the end of an initial period. Paymentof this nominal fee transfers title of the asset andbrings the legal agreement to an end.

Accounting treatmentThe asset is treated as if it had been purchased. Itis, therefore, capitalised in the balance sheet anddepreciation is provided on an annual basis.

The obligation to pay future instalments is recordedas a liability in the balance sheet.

The payments are apportioned between a financecharge and a reduction of the outstanding liability.The total finance charge should be allocated toaccounting periods during the HP term and isshown as an expense in the profit and loss account.

Tax treatmentThe actual charge for depreciation is not allowedfor tax purposes, as this is replaced by capitalallowances, which is HM Revenue & Customsdeduction regime for allowing capital expenditureagainst chargeable profits. The first £100,000 ofexpenditure each year on plant and equipment,excluding cars, qualifies for a 100 per cent capitalallowance deduction. Expenditure in excess of

£100,000 enters either the 10 per cent pool or the20 per cent pool, attracting a writing downallowance (WDA) at the appropriate rate.

Any business that invests in energy-saving or water-efficient technology is entitled to claim a 100 percent first year allowance. Cars with CO2 emissionsof up to 110 g/km also qualify for a 100 per centfirst year allowance. Cars with CO2 emissions of upto 110 g/km will also qualify for a 100 per cent firstyear allowance. Cars with CO2 emissions that aregreater than 110 g/km and up to 160 g/km will beallocated to the main pool and attract the 20 percent writing down allowance. Cars with CO2emissions exceeding 160 g/km will enter thespecial rate pool and attract WDA at 10 per cent.A 100 per cent capital allowance is also availablefor new or unused (i.e. not second hand) vans thatdo not produce any CO2 emissions.

The finance charge in the accounts is normallyallowed against tax.

VatVAT charged by the finance company will bepayable with the initial installment. There will be adelay of up to four months in recovering this fromHM Revenue & Customs. In the case of a car, mostbusinesses will be unable to recover any of the VAT.

FINANCE LEASESA finance lease typically has a primary period for afixed period at full cost, followed by a secondaryperiod, usually of an indefinite length, at a very lowcost.

Accounting treatmentThe asset is treated as if it had been purchased. Itis therefore capitalised in the balance sheet anddepreciation is provided on an annual basis.

The obligation to pay future rentals is recorded asa liability in the balance sheet.

The decision to buy, hire purchase, or lease an asset will generally depend on the financing available toyour business. There are different treatments for tax and accounting purposes, depending on the type offinance contract entered into, and these will need to be considered together with the VAT treatment.

BUY, HIRE PURCHASEOR LEASE?


B4 ADVICE

The rents payable are apportioned between afinance charge and a reduction of the outstandingliability.

The total finance charge should be allocated toaccounting periods during the primary lease termand is shown as an expense in the profit and lossaccount.

Tax treatmentWhere accounts have been prepared in accordancewith accounting standards, the accountingtreatment will be acceptable for tax purposes andno adjustments to profit need be made.

Where accounts have not been prepared inaccordance with accounting standards, for taxpurposes the rentals are deductible in computingprofits under the accrual concept. The rentals are,therefore, allocated over the period of the lease.Where the asset is a car with CO2 emissionsexceeding 160 g/km, there is a flat ratedisallowance of 15 per cent on the amount ofrental payments allowed for tax purposes.

Capital allowances are not available.

VatVAT charged by the finance company will bepayable with the initial instalment and eachsubsequent rental. There will be a delay of up tofour months in recovering this from HM Revenue& Customs. In the case of a car, most businesseswill be able to recover 50 per cent of the VAT.

OPERATING LEASESAn operating lease is where an asset is rented fora period, not necessarily fixed, and returned to theowner at the end of the period. Contract hire is atypical form of operating lease.

Accounting treatmentThe asset is not capitalised; the rental paymentsare charged on an acceptable basis over the leaseterm to the profit and loss account.

Tax treatmentThe accounting treatment is an acceptabletreatment for tax purposes, where the accounting

standard has been applied. No adjustments toprofits, therefore, need be made.

Where the asset is a car with CO2 emissionsexceeding 160 g/km, there is a flat ratedisallowance of 15 per cent on the amount ofrental payments allowed for tax purposes.

Capital allowances are not available.

VatEach rental or instalment will have VAT added sothat the VAT cost is spread throughout the periodof the agreement.

Where the asset is a car, only 50 per cent of theVAT on the leasing charges can be reclaimed. Ifidentified separately, the VAT on any maintenanceelement of the contract can be reclaimed in full.

The disposal proceeds of leased cars will be VATinclusive.

www.wenntownsend.co.uk

Summary Accounting treatment Tax treatment(deductions normally allowed)

VAT(normal treatment)

Buy AssetDepreciation

Capital allowancesInterest

Up front

HP Asset / liabilityDepreciationInterest

Capital allowancesInterest

Up front

Finance Lease Asset / liabilityDepreciationInterest

DepreciationInterest

On each instalment

Operating Lease Rental expense as you go Rental On each installment


“Buying at the beginning of a VATperiod will entail a wait of three

months or more to recover the tax.VAT on cars is recoverable only in

very rare circumstances.”

Photography: ww

w.studio-8.co.uk

In this article Clive Everitt, Head ofRecovery and Insolvency at accountancyfirm and business advisers Shaw Gibbs,outlines why he believes the impact ofgrowth in the economy might takeconsiderably longer to translate into newjobs.

Since the economic crisis of 2008,insolvencies have not reached theanticipated levels seen during earlierrecessions. There are several contributingfactors. Firstly all the major banks have,instead of making appointment ofadministrators, created intensive care unitshousing expertise to help businessesrestructure and recover.

Secondly landlords, facing liability forbusiness rates on empty premises, arereluctant to precipitate action which couldlead to them being left with vacant premisesif they will be unlikely to find a new tenant.Research estimates the cost of vacantpremises as c175% of previous rentalincome taking into account insurance,security and rates. Better therefore to havea tenant in occupation and paying somerent rather than the cashflow disadvantageof no rental income and increased outflowof cash.

HMRC have also taken a more pragmaticview towards companies in financial distress.HMRC can normally be persuaded to giveat least one chance to a distressed companyby allowing a time to pay arrangement to beput in place.

Interest rates remain at record lows meaningthat whilst ailing companies may not haveaccess to new finance in many cases theyare able to fund existing finance costs. Finallyand most significantly in light of theGovernor’s statement employees andemployers have collectively been morepragmatic with innovative solutions todownturns in business to avoidredundancies including wage freezes andreductions and reduced working hours, all

aimed at keeping as many in employmentas possible. These factors have created aproliferation of what are described as'zombie' companies.

Characteristically a zombie companygenerates enough cash to service debt thusavoiding bank or other creditors action butnot enough money to invest in newproducts, research or services. Research byR3, the professional association ofInsolvency Practitioners, in 2012 indicatedthe economy is supporting 146,000 zombiecompanies with up to a third unlikely tosurvive long term. However, zombiesprovide employment helping the country toavoid a massive increase in unemploymentand the consequential increase in thewelfare bill.

With historically lower productivity than theUSA and other Western Europeaneconomies, there is much soul searchingabout how the UK economy could be mademore efficient during boom years. Not sonow. Our lack of efficiency and productivityhelps explain why our unemployment ratedid not worsen in recent years. Businesseshave fought to retain staff to avoid the lossof skills, expensive redundancies andrecruitment costs when times improve.During economic crisis this approach andthe resulting relatively high levels ofemployment, even with an inefficientworkforce, helps prevent a recessiondeepening, maintains confidence levels forthose in work, reduces calls on socialwelfare payments and prevents the socialunrest seen in the southern European stateswhere unemployment levels are well intodouble figures.

So how does the new guidance from theGovernor sit alongside an economy with150,000 zombie companies, lowproductivity and unemployment rates ofwell below 10% and is this good news forbusiness and the younger generation whohave suffered disproportionately in theemployment market in recent years. Clive

Everitt does not think so.

The low productivity levels means thatincreasing order levels will be met fromimproving efficiency rather than increasedrecruitment. The widely predicted demise ofso many zombie companies may beavoided but that will not necessarily result innew jobs. Historically as each recessionunfolds the old guard of companies iswound up and new companies form in theirplace using new technologies with a newvibrant workforce being trained for the role.Whilst the emphasis of the new Bank ofEngland statement is that their new policy isgood for the economy, the maintenance oflow interest rates will prolong the survival ofzombies. New companies will not growfrom the ashes of failure and directors whohave become accustomed to thebehaviours of the last five years of 'survivalmode' will continue to prevail, particularly atthe SME level. It could therefore take verymuch longer than anticipated for the targetof an increase in employment by 750,000to be reached than the three year estimate.The new policy may avoid a number ofinsolvencies and the personal tragedy ofunemployment but may instead prolong theagony for the overall economy.

With economic growth underway it will beinteresting to see how the next few monthsunfold and whether the usual increase ininsolvencies during a period of recovery canbe avoided. Whatever happens there areclearly a significant number of companiesthat would benefit from the expertisedeveloped in recent years to helpcompanies through a crisis. With over half oftheir work in recent years being focused onrecovery and rescue if help is needed theRecovery team at Shaw Gibbs, with over100 years combined expertise, is ready tohelp.

For further information please contact CliveEveritt at [email protected] tel: 01865 292231.www.shawgibbs.com


At his first news conference as Governor of the Bank of England in August, Mark Carney saidthe Bank will not consider raising interest rates until unemployment has fallen to 7% whichhe anticipates could take three years. Many business organisations welcomed the statementbut savers and pensioner organisations were less happy.

ZOMBIES TO DEFEATRECOVERY?


“Directors who have become accustomed tothe behaviours of the

last five years of 'survivalmode' will continue

to prevail”Clive Everitt, Head of Recovery and Insolvency at Shaw Gibbs

B4 FINANCE


Right Hand HR has certainly seen a shift change over the past few monthsin the number of recruitment projects it has been involved in with itsclients. Campbell Ritchie, Managing Director of Right Hand HR says “Thefact is that, recession or not, the best candidates are always in demand.It may be a surprise that unemployment has not increased more duringthe recession and we are certainly not out of the woods yet – we needgrowth above 1% just to stand still with population growth. What haschanged – and why we are busier – is that more employers are interestedin how they can reach the best candidates as economically as possibleand the processes they can then use to identify the best from the rest.’’

Campbell’s comments are confirmed by the Chartered Institute of Personneland Development (CIPD) which has released its latest Labour Market Outlookreport. This predicts continued growth in employment during the secondquarter of 2013, but higher competition for job roles.

However, the survey warns that for jobseekers with fewer skills, qualificationsand less experience, the jobs market is becoming increasingly competitive, with45 applicants chasing each low-skilled job. Some jobseekers are completelyexcluded from the recruitment process, with 11% of employers saying theywould not look at candidates who had been long-term unemployed and 14%saying they would not consider taking on school leavers.

The report has also warned that for every medium-skilled role, there is anaverage of 29 applicants, and for every highly skilled vacancy, there is anaverage of 10 people competing for the role.

Labour market adviser for the CIPD, Gerwyn Davies, commented on theorganisation’s findings saying employers should look at this as an opportunityto select from a wider pool of talent, helping to address their own skillsshortages and build their talent pipelines. He also called on employers not to“inadvertently screen out candidates of different ages or backgrounds for thewrong reasons, for example, by requiring degrees for roles where they are notneeded.”

So how will this affect your organisation if you are currently looking to recruit?We all know recruitment is a major challenge for any small business, becoming

a huge drain on management time. So it’s vital to get it right.

It’s important to firstly understand the role you are looking to fill. What key skillsand competencies are required for the position? When was the last time thejob description for that role was reviewed, is it still relevant? Then the challengeis to reach the best candidates and run a fair and objective recruitment process.Recruitment agencies may be part of the answer but they aren’t cheap andcan see it as job done with the supply of some CV’s and any bum on the seat.

Right Hand HR supports many local businesses across Buckinghamshire withtheir recruitment by managing their recruitment process from end to end. Beingexpert at using social networks, job boards and other web-based recruitmenttechniques we can reduce or remove the need for agencies, and by applyingour HR skills, including the use of on line candidate assessment tests, weimprove the quality of recruitment decisions. It is a win-win-win; better service,lower and predictable costs and superior outcomes.

Working with us as an on-going business partner puts us in the unique positionof understanding your culture, values and aims. This enables us to continue toimprove our service and save more of your valuable time and money. Whenyour employees are probably your biggest cost and make the differencebetween your success and failure, recruitment is the HR process you really dohave to get right.

We would welcome the opportunity to discuss with your recruitment or HRneeds. Please contact us on 01494 451681.

www.rhhr.com

As the much heralded green shoots of recovery arebeing reported it could be that more employers willbe thinking about recruitment and the bestcandidates will be in even more demand. Is this youand the challenge you are facing?

THINKINGABOUTRECRUITING?

B4 ADVICE

“It’s important to firstly understandthe role you are looking to fill. Whatkey skills and competencies are

required for the position?”

The new partnership allows the Oxford basedcompany to provide customers with a range ofSophos products, which protect over 100,000businesses and 100 million users in more than150 countries. Sophos is headquartered inBoston, US and Oxford.

To provide a platform for further growth, Paul Cox,who is the managing director of Quadsys, secured

a commercial mortgage from Lloyds BankCommercial Banking through the Funding forLending Scheme to acquire new trading premiseson Langford Lane in Kidlington. The offices haveenabled the business to increase its staffheadcount from four to 17.

The firm has also secured an invoice finance facilityfrom Lloyds Bank Commercial Finance which helps

it to manage its cashflow by unlocking the value ofits unpaid invoices.

This has helped the business to boost its annualturnover to in excess of £5 million since it wasfounded in 2008.

Paul Cox, managing director of Quadsys, said: “Tobe the first company in the UK to receive Sophos

Quadsys Limited, a supplier of security software, anti-virus protection and hardware has been named thefirst company in the UK to become a Sophos Gold Solution Partner.

IT SECURITY PROVIDERGOES FOR GOLD


B4 SPOTLIGHT

Gold Solution Partner status is a fantasticachievement and it reflects not only theprofessionalism of our sales and technical staff, butalso the commitment and support that we havecome to expect from Sophos. Our combined driveto offer the perfect solution for any size company’ssecurity will ensure that we continue to provide thehighest quality service for many years to come.

“The support we have received from Lloyds BankCommercial Banking and Lloyds Bank CommercialFinance has been immensely helpful as we havegrown. Having a relationship manager at the endof the phone is a huge boost, and by freeing up

cashflow we don’t have to wait for client paymentsbefore moving on to new projects.”

Mike Hemmings, relationship manager at LloydsBank Commercial Banking, said: “Quadsys is a well-established firm and the hard work of Paul and histeam to fulfil both old and new client’s needs hashelped them to become a Sophos Gold SolutionPartner, which just adds to the firm’s ever growingreputation in the IT world.”

Yvonne Hitchcox, client manager at Lloyds BankCommercial Finance, said: “We are delighted to besupporting Quadsys through an invoice finance

facility. This flexible form of finance helps to bridgethe gap between a company issuing invoices andreceiving payments from customers, meaning theycan smooth out cashflow and use the funding tohelp them grow.”

For more information about commercial mortgagescontact Karl Leitelmayer of Lloyds CommercialBanking on 07970 566065.

www.quadsys.co.ukwww.lloydstsbbusiness.com

“The support we have received from Lloyds Bank Commercial Banking and Lloyds Bank Commercial Finance has been

immensely helpful as we have grown”


FULL SERVICE

CREATIVESTUDIO

www.culhamstudio.co.uk 01235 464904

Culham [email protected] @culhamstudio

EAGLES ARE ADMIRED AS LIVINGSYMBOLS OF POWER AND FREEDOM

FULL SERVICE

CREATIVESTUDIO

OUT WITH THE OLD IN WITH THE NEW

“

www.culhamstudio.co.uk 01235 464904

Culham [email protected] @culhamstudio

Feathers have a number of utilitarian, cultural and religious uses.

Like bird’s feathers, we have many different uses, all of which will help make your business soar.

“


Although Bang & Olufsen have beenintegrating multi-room audio and video forwell over 30 years, Smart Home is muchmore than just music in a few rooms.

So what is Smart Home?Smart Home is a concept of integrating some orall of your homes infrastructure into a singlecontrol system so that everything includinglighting, curtains, heating, CCTV, and a completeentertainment system can all be controlled byone remote control and interact with each other.

Imagine pressing DVD on your remote whichstarts everything: playing the film, closing theblinds and dimming the lights. Or being able toremotely turn on your heating from your smartphone when on your way home.

The possibilities are endless from whole house

systems to single rooms, all controlled from yourtelevision’s remote.

Unlike all other televisions on the planet, theability to control such systems is built into everyBang & Olufsen television making it the perfectway to start your Smart Home system.

Here at Bang & Olufsen of Oxford we now havea new installation team who specialise in SmartHome systems and can cater for any home, bigor small.

Simply contact or visit our showroom to discussthe options further and see it all in action.

Bang & Olufsen of Oxford: South Parade,Summertown, Oxford, OX2 7JLTel: 01865 511241. Email: [email protected]

Over the recent years a number of new technologies have evolvedand the concept of Smart Homes have picked up momentum andare now becoming much more mainstream.

SMART HOMEINSTALLATIONS FROMBANG & OLUFSEN


B4 R&R

“Imagine pressing DVD on your remote whichstarts everything: playing the film, closingthe blinds and dimming the lights”

Training is an important aspect of daily life atCIS; it ensures the business is providing the verybest solutions to its customers.

Over the years, CIS has understood the importanceof continual training and learning for all it staff insupport and sales roles. By providing time andfunding, CIS allows all members of the team todevelop technically to ensure they are confident inall daily operations.

Richard Marsh recently underwent training atleading security solution provider Sophos to gainthe Security Architect qualification over a period of5 days at their Headquarter site in Abingdon. “Thetraining is crucial to all of our staff, be that in house

or external. This security training was difficult, buthas allowed us to offer a whole new suite ofsecurity products to customers, and with two banksbeing exploited in the last week it just goes to showhow little people care about IT security before it’stoo late!”

Our vendor partnerships form an important part ofour solution success and therefore StephenWilkinson in Business Development has nowachieved various qualifications in identifying specificsolutions across a broad range of providersincluding Citrix Certified Sales Specialist, SophosCertified Sales Consultant, and VEEAM Backup &Replication.

Stephen adds, “On-going training is a great way oflearning; it adds value and most of all it allows youto make confident decisions in business.”

Although training is not forced upon members ofstaff at CIS, the open discussions and sharing ofinformation is crucial to our business growth andservice delivery. “IT is constantly changing and ourstaff need to keep up,” Richard adds, “An importantpart of taking on a new client is when alldepartments sit down together to discuss theproject in hand. Through a broad range ofexperience we are able to look at every avenue.”

www.cisltd.com

59www.b4-business.com

Training is an important aspect of daily life at CIS; it ensuresthe business is providing the very best solutions to itscustomers.

B4 RECOMMENDS: ARE YOU KEEN TO GET YOUR BUSINESS ON THE CLOUD?

THE IMPORTANCEOF CONTINUALLEARNING

B4’s move to the cloud earlier this year hasdelivered everything and more to the businessand eliminated in one go the worries andconcerns of losing precious data, as B4’sAssistant Editor, Lorna Dodson commented.“Moving to the cloud has given us all muchmore flexibility at work and the reassurance thateverything is backed up without us having toworry.

“There are no more worries about back up tapes,

and because we work off small desk top boxes (thesize of an old modem) then there are no more PCtowers dominating the desk or floorspace.

“And on the odd occasion one of us doesn’t makeit into the office for whatever reason, we can loginto files wherever we are in the world!

“If you are looking for a simple solution to youroffice computer conundrum, look no further thanthe cloud and CIS. They have been superb in their

responsive support and we know we’re in capablehands.”

B4 IT & COMMS

“...with two banks being exploited in the last week it just goes toshow how little people careabout IT security before it’s

too late!”Richard Marsh - Director, Computing Information Systems Ltd


The High Sheriff Challenge is an initiative thataims to reward charitable donations from thebusiness sector by delivering a series of free,unique events. The thinking recognises thatbusinesses are constantly being asked to givemoney for good causes but need to justifydonations to staff, customers and shareholders.The High Sheriff Challenge enables businessesto deliver value to stakeholders, whilst stillticking the corporate social responsibility box.

The High Sheriff of Oxfordshire

The Office of High Sheriff is an independent,non-political Royal appointment for a single year.The origins of the Office date back to Saxon times,when the ‘Shire Reeve’ was responsible to the kingfor the maintenance of law and order within theshire, or county, and for the collection and returnof taxes due to the Crown. Today, the former veryextensive powers which the office enjoyed havegone and the role involves a mix of ceremonial,charitable and civic functions. The role is voluntary,unfunded and non-political.

The current High Sheriff of Oxfordshire is GrahamUpton, perhaps better known as a past Vice

Chancellor of Oxford Brookes University. I will takeover from him in April next year.

The 2014/15 High Sheriff Challenge

In addition to the High Sheriff of Oxfordshire’s civicand ceremonial roles, the year offers a uniqueopportunity to raise money for and generallyencourage appropriate charities. It is my intention

to engage the local business community in thesupport of 3 charities:

OXFORDSHIRE COMMUNITY FOUNDATION -Committed to improving the lives of Oxfordshire’smost vulnerable and disadvantaged, it makes smallgrants of £500-£5000, to support activities thatwould be unlikely to attract other charitable funding.

MUSIC FOR AUTISM - Enhances quality of life andraises public awareness through autism-friendly,interactive concerts developed specifically forindividuals with autism and their families.

ACCESS SPORT - Transforms the lives of underprivileged and disabled youngsters – helping sportsclubs give them opportunities they would neverotherwise have. They will establish a post withinOxford City Council, to work with the council’s teamand local sports clubs, supporting Oxford’s YouthAmbition Strategy.

During my working life as a local businessman, Icame to know only too well that charitable requestsarrive on the desks of business leaders with greatfrequency. Requests from the local community andstaff members, as well as highly publicised national

“What on earth does a High Sheriff do Papa?” asked my granddaughter when it was announced that I wastaking on the role in 2014. And over recent months it’s a question that has been asked by quite a numberof people as I’ve introduced the concept of the High Sheriff Challenge. By Tony Stratton.

THE HIGH SHERIFFCHALLENGE

“The thinking behindThe High Sheriff

Challenge therefore is to deliver value to

participating businesses, ratherthan simply asking

for money”Tont Stratton - High Sheriff of Oxfordshire 2014

Allan Leighton Greg SearleGraham Upton

61

and international good causes all deserve supportand so budgets quickly disappear.

The thinking behind The High Sheriff Challengetherefore is to deliver value to participatingbusinesses, rather than simply asking for moneyand, to that end we have developed 3 uniqueevents which will enable participating firms toinvolve staff, customers and other stakeholders. Theevents reflect the nature of the chosen charities –sport and culture – with the addition of a businesselement.

The first will be a competitive sporting afternoon atthe Iffley Road Sports Ground in Oxford, hosted byrugby and TV celebrity Matt Dawson and Olympicgold medallist Greg Searle. Teams of 5 “athletes”from each business will compete in 8 events,reflecting an Olympic theme, under theprofessional control of local fitness guru BarryGrinham. In the evening, 10 people from eachcompany will be invited to attend an awards dinnerat Oxford Brookes and Matt will present the prizes!We also intend to invite Sir Roger Bannister, whofamously broke the 4 minute mile at Iffley Road.

The second event will be a choral afternoon at

Blenheim Palace, when 4 people from eachbusiness will have the opportunity to learn to singtogether, led by local maestro and Director of theOrchestra of St John, John Lubbock. During thecourse of the afternoon John and colleagues willmould the group into the High Sheriff’s Choir and,later that evening when 10 people from eachcompany will enjoy diner in The Orangery atBlenheim they will be entertained…by the choir!

The third unique event will be a lecture at the SAIDBusiness School from legendary businessman AllanLeighton, followed by a drinks reception in theschool for 10 people from each business. Allan isan inspirational speaker and author, as well asbusiness pluralist, working with many leadingcompanies and entrepreneurs.

In addition, each company will receive an invitationfor two people to attend the High Sheriff’s Garden Party.

The Commitment

The number of participating companies will becapped at 20 to ensure practicality and exclusivity.Each business will be asked to make two donationsof £3750 – the first in April 2015 and the second

in March 2015. All the events and dinners will beprovided and there will be no further fundraising.Donations will be paid directly to the charities.

The Challenge Diary

Sports afternoon and dinner:Thursday 17th July 2014

High Sheriff’s Garden Party:Thursday 24th July 2014

Choral afternoon and Dinner:Thursday 4th September 2014

Business lecture:Thursday 11th December 2014

Getting involved

Contact Tony Stratton – [email protected] 07850261777

“the role involves amix of ceremonial,charitable and civicfunctions. The role

is voluntary, unfunded and non-political”Tony Stratton - High Sheriff of Oxfordshire 2014

Tony Stratton

B4 SPOTLIGHT

www.b4-business.com

John Lubbock

‡Model shown is Alfa MiTo 875cc TB TwinAir 85 bhp Sprint at £14,150 OTR† excluding Alfa Red special paint at £425. Range of offi cial fuel consumption fi gures for the Alfa MiTo range: Urban 34.9 – 64.2 mpg (8.1 – 4.4 I/100km); Extra Urban 58.9 – 97.4 mpg (4.8 – 2.9 I/100km); Combined 47.1 – 80.7 mpg (6.0 – 3.5 I/100km). CO2 emissions 139 – 90 g/km.‡Fuel consumption and CO2 fi gures are obtained for comparative purposes in accordance with EC directives/regulations and may not be representative of real-life driving conditions. Factors such as driving style, weather and road conditions may also have a signifi cant effect on fuel consumption.

*With Alfa Romeo Preferenza you have the option to return the vehicle and not pay the fi nal payment, subject to the vehicle not having exceeded an agreed annual mileage (a charge of 6p per mile for exceeding 6,000 miles per annum in these examples) and being in good condition. Offers may be withdrawn or amended without prior notifi cation. Offer subject to status, a guarantee and/or indemnity may be required. Terms and Conditions apply. Alfa Romeo Financial Services, PO Box 4465, Slough SL1 0RW. Offer applies to vehicles registered between 1 July and 30 September 2013 on Alfa MiTo models. Terms and conditions apply.

†On the road price is based on an Alfa MiTo 875cc TB TwinAir 85 bhp Sprint and includes 12 months road fund licence, vehicle fi rst registration fee, delivery, number plates and VAT. Figures correct at time of printing. Offer subject to status. Terms and conditions apply. See our website for full details.

**The 3 year warranty consists of 36 months’ unlimited mileage warranty (incl.24 months’ Pan European warranty) which guarantees your vehicle against defective manufacturing faults for a period of 36 months from the date of fi rst registration and without mileage limits. This excludes wear and tear items. Retail sales only. Terms and conditions apply and the warranty is subject to exclusions. See www.alfaromeo.co.uk for more details.

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THE ALFA MITO FOR JUST £149 PER MONTH* UNTIL THE END OF SEPTEMBER.

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Customer Deposit £3,485 Total Amount Payable by Customer £15,249 Representative APR 3.6%

It’s styled on a sports car and nips through traffic like a city car. The Alfa MiTo Sprint with 16” alloys, rear spoiler, manual climate control, cruise control and Bluetooth® including USB and Aux-in offers far more than you’d expect, for less than you’d expect to pay. Available now with 3 years Alfa Romeo unlimited mileage warranty**.

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If you’re new to the concept of digitalmarketing, in particular search enginemarketing (SEM), here’s how it works.

In this fast-paced world there are numerousdirect and specialised multi-channelmarketing opportunities, with quantitativeresults that can be analysed to gain insightsinto user behaviour and formulate strategiesfor improving brand awareness and drivingtraffic. SEM is a type of internet marketing thatinvolves increasing the visibility of yourcompany’s website in search engine resultspages (SERPs), with a particular emphasis onmarket leader Google, through optimisationand advertising. Search Engine Optimisation(SEO) fine-tunes the technical aspects of awebsite to ensure that it can be crawled andindexed effectively by search engines, as wellas optimising meta data and rewriting orcreating new website content to help push ithigher up the search engine rankings.Branding content is a vital component to SEO,increasing brand awareness and driving

valuable traffic. SEOptimise offers contentaudits, strategy advice, and just about anynew content required to make a brand asuccess online. Pay-Per-Click (PPC) involvespaid advertising beside the search results andon other websites; only when the advert isclicked does the advertiser pay.

Some people may see SEM as a dark art, butthis attitude is mainly down to a lack ofinformation on the subject. SEOptimise putsa lot of time into knowledge-sharing with itsclients so as not to keep them in the dark onthe subject. The SEOptimise team approacheseach project with a unique strategy tailored tothe differing needs of their clients. Using theirexpert online marketing knowledge and alsoutilising their individual knowledge andexperience in their own particular fields, thetalented members of the team are able toachieve more successful results. They like todevelop a long-term, strategic relationshipwith clients to understand how they can help

achieve the client’s business goals. And theirhard work pays off: SEOptimise ranked 9thin the Deloitte Fast 50 2012 (fastest growingtechnology companies) in the UK and 74thin EMEA.

SEOptimise has an impressive client baseacross a diverse range of competitive marketsectors. They have built up an enviableportfolio that includes a host of householdnames, including MORE TH>N, Deloitte,Miele, UCAS and M&G.

SEOptimise has worked closely with Deloittesince May 2011 to increase the organicsearch engine visibility of the UK section oftheir global site, producing many successful,on-going campaigns that achieve consistentlystrong results, rising to the challenge ofwidening the reach of complex data from aninitially small audience demographic. Throughusing engaging infographics to representfinancial data in a form more appropriate toappeal to a wider audience, SEOptimise

managed to exceed all client expectations andobtain fantastic results. For example, theFootball Money League infographic saw atraffic increase to the site of 450% on therelease day as well as being published in tenlanguages and mentioned in City AM, theMetro and The Guardian, with exposure fromthe BBC, CNN and Sky Sports.

If there’s one thing that stands out aboutSEOptimise, it’s that they care. They careabout their clients and their goals, value theirteam members, invest in education andnurture potential. They not only produce acontinually brilliant quality of work, but are afantastic team of people who work togetherto grow ideas.

Tel: 08452990818Email: [email protected]: @seoptimisewww.seoptimise.com

SEOptimise is an Oxford-based digital marketing agency that has taken theworld of online marketing by storm. Founded in 2007 with two members ofstaff, it has grown dramatically into a respected and recognised industryleader. With an award-winning blog and a team of highly educated,forward-thinking consultants, SEOptimise offers a successful combination ofagency experience and an in-house level of client business knowledge.The SEOptimise team works on bespoke search engine optimisation,pay-per-click, branded content and web analytics projects.

SEOPTIMISE


B4 MARKETING

“We strive to be outstanding in everything we do,because we believe that our commitment to excellence is what enables us to deliver the

best results for our clients”

The band made contact with Lady MargaretHall as part of their recent promotional push,as Rob explained. 'We were looking for aninteresting place to promote the band andwe wanted something a little different. Alexmentioned oak panelled rooms and Iinstinctively thought of Oxford Universitywhich has obviously got a lot of oak panelledrooms! I spoke with Head of HospitalityServices Bill Kemp and he was very receptiveto the idea. He explained how the SimpkinsLee Theatre at Lady Margaret Hall wasdeveloping into an alternative arts venue sothis fitted perfectly with his vision.

LMH have, as featured in previous editions of B4Magazine, opened up to a wide range of diverseevents. Jazz festivals, Tango competitions, theatreand even film premieres. Most recently LMH havehosted a Real Madrid FC coaching course foryoungsters and have announced a partnership withCreation Theatre for next summer and also plansfor a flower festival. Hosting the band for a day wasjust another string to LMH’s bow.

But what of Invisible Vegas? Bass guitarist andbacking vocalist, Jacques, told me more. “There'sfour of us in the band including Ashley on drumsand Chris as lead guitar. Completing the band isAlex who will no doubt tell you more about hisvocal talents!”

Lead singer Alex stresses that the band is adaptableto the wide range of venues they play in. ”We’re

not a fixed unit and go out in various permutationsof the band doing acoustic gigs with just two of usquite often. We've been going for a few years nowand have played BBC introducing gigs [at The O2Academy] and have another lined up forOctober/November. But the original material iswhat we're pushing and we feel we're in a strongerposition than we ever have been to do that. Chrisis from Derby, but everyone else is from Oxford butwe’re not your stereotypical Oxford band….. there'splenty of them around.’

In terms of the current music scene, the band likenthemselves to Kings of Leon and cite bands suchas The Stone Roses as key influences.

“Our vocals are likened to Pearl Jam, but we’re alsolikened to The Dandy Warhols,” adds Jacques.

The guys were obviously delighted with LMH as avenue to do their promotional work, as Alexcommented. “It's a cool venue. You could play afully fledged rock and roll concert there but acousticnights would work too. But that venue cries out forbands, with a good atmosphere, and a great vibe.On the Friday night they had a jazz performance inthe Simpkins Lee theatre where we recorded thevideo and afterwards there was a big session in thecellar bar. Richard Budd, who photographed usduring the day, suggested we went down andcontributed something, it was amazing.”

The band appears hugely enthusiastic about theirpast and potential future experiences with thevenue, showing a great appreciation for theplatform it presents them with. Both Jacques andAlex have a massive appreciation for the positionthey are in and obviously thrive doing what theylove most.

“We love music, we love other people enjoying itand, at the end of the day, that's what it's all about.We’re taking ourselves seriously, we're working hardat the moment and the fruits of the labour willcome in time.”

www.facebook.com/invisiblevegaswww.lmh.ox.ac.uk

Photography: www.richardbudd.co.uk

Invisible Vegas are a 4-piece, Oxford based alternative guitar band, who were invited to shoot their latestvideo and promotional shots at the impressive Lady Margaret Hall. As the college opens its doors to an everwider range of activities and events, Maddy Barber met with members Alex, Jacques, and manager RobButler to find out more about the band and how the venue have helped provide an invaluable platform.


“We lovemusic, we loveother peopleenjoying it

and, at the endof the day, that'swhat it's allabout”

INVISIBLE VEGAS

B4 VENUES


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news


Renowned sporting venue CheltenhamRacecourse announces its Christmas partypackages for 2013’s festive period.

The packages catering for groups of 80 to 300 startfrom £32.50 (inc. VAT) per person. Parties will beheld in the stunning Grandstand rooms, withspectacular views across the course and Cleeve Hill.The celebratory package includes room hire, amouthwatering three course meal, decorations anda disco to keep all dancing feet moving until 1am.

Familiar with creating award-winning cuisine forhospitality customers at some of the UK’s mostprominent racing fixtures including the legendaryCheltenham Festival, the chefs personally arrangeeach dish for all Christmas party bookings. Thespecially created three course menu allows gueststo indulge in locally sourced, freshly prepareddishes such as: ‘Smoked Salmon and Prawn Tian’,‘Braised British Beef in Cheltenham Racing Ale withall the trimmings’, and a ‘seasonal caramelisedPanna Cotta’ to round off the delicious meal.

Located only one mile from Cheltenham towncentre, the course is accessible from the midlands’major arterial routes including the M40 and M5, aswell as direct train links to London and Bristol.Cheltenham Racecourse also offers over 10,000free car parking spaces.

Susie Bradshaw, conference and events managerat Cheltenham Racecourse, said: “We are delightedto announce our Christmas party packages for2013. Last year the package was very popular dueto its inclusion of entertainment paired with a

greater flexibility to consider off-peak dates. Incombining these elements, we can offer a pricewhich meets client’s cost-sensitive requirements aswell as creating a party to remember.”

Bookings for the exclusive Christmas package canbe made by calling the venue’s events team on01242 807 286. Dates are available throughoutNovember and December.

Midweek package: £32.50 per person (inc. VAT)Sunday - Wednesday parties, 7pm – 1am (min x80people)- 3 course meal- Decoration and novelties- Disco

Weekend package: £35.00 per person (inc. VAT)Thursday – Saturday parties, 7pm – 1am (min x80people)- 3 course meal- Decoration and novelties- Disco

www.cheltenham.co.uk

Cheltenham Racecourse, Gloucestershire’siconic sporting venue, has announced it willhost several live comedy events this autumn.

Funny-men Sean Lock and Jack Dee have beenconfirmed for Cheltenham Racecourse LIVE eventsthis October, while November 1st will see theracecourse play host to a Charity Comedy Night insupport of UK based military charity, Army ofAngels.

Highly acclaimed stand-up comic Sean Lock, whohas featured as team captain for 14 series ofChannel 4’s comedy panel show, 8 out of 10 Cats,will entertain the Cheltenham crowds on Saturdaythe 12th October while the 2013 comedy tourfrom Jack Dee, who returns from a six year absencefrom stand-up comedy, will roll into Cheltenhamon Thursday 31st October.

The Army of Angels Charity Comedy Night, takingplace on Friday November 1st will showcase aplethora of television’s best comic talent, includingStephen K Amos, coming together to support thecharity, which endeavours to provide support tomembers of the UK’s armed forces and theirfamilies following injury.

Susie Bradshaw, conference and events managerat Cheltenham Racecourse said, “Following thesuccess of last year’s comedy showcase atCheltenham Racecourse, we’re thrilled to be ableto bring more world-class entertainment toGloucestershire for autumn 2013. We hope tobuild on the excitement surrounding pastperformances from the Stereophonics and KaiserChiefs and highlight The Centaur’s prominence asa superb entertainment venue”

Tickets for the Cheltenham legs of Sean Lock’s‘Purple Van Man’ and ‘Jack Dee Live 2013’ are onsale now. Both are priced at £21.00pp plusbooking fee and can be purchased viawww.cheltenham.co.uk or on 01242 539538.

Cheltenham Racecourse to host live comedy this autumn

Sean Lock

Jack Dee

All wrapped up at Cheltenham Racecourse


Occupying a prominent city centre positionbeneath the protective bulk of the medievalcastle mound, the Oxford Centre for Innovationhas spent the summer in feverish activity.Following a highly successful year for its rosterof fast growth start up businesses, this monththe facility opens the doors to a suite of newoffices that effectively doubles its size.

The city centre business hub, which provides arange of commercial accommodation and supportservices to a range of ambitious local companies,has expanded operations to encompass two newfloors in its New Road premises, making availablea range of new offices for growing firms.

“Demand for space within the Centre has been sogreat that in recent months we’ve had to operate awaiting list for companies wishing to move in.Oxford’s business community is growing fast, andwe’re delighted to have doubled the amount of firstclass office space available,” says Margaret Hewitt,Centre Director.

“While some of the new offices have already beensecured by existing tenants looking to expand theirstaffing levels, we expect a variety of newbusinesses to be coming on board fromSeptember.”

Centre operators Oxford Innovation, the UK'sleading operator of business & innovation centreswith 20 facilities countrywide, attribute the facility’ssuccess to a range of factors including its centrallocation, state of the art facilities and a range ofsupport services including business, marketing andfinancial advice.

The Centre currently hosts 13 companies - largelyfrom the high tech sector - employing in excess of130 staff, with that number expected to increaseby up to 100% over the rest of 2013. A further 14

businesses occupy flexible virtual tenancies, usingthe centre as a central point of contact andoccasional meeting venue for a fraction of the costnormally associated with setting up commercialpremises.

They vary enormously in size and focus, rangingfrom cutting-edge renewable energy developmentoutfit Joulefusion to consultancy organisation theGlobal Climate Adaptation Partnership, but all areattracted by a number of shared factors.

“First and foremost, Oxford is a great place to dobusiness. The combination of fantastic transportlinks, a vibrant technology sector and high qualityworkforce makes it an excellent place to live andwork,” says Karl Schweppe, Managing Director andco-founder of personal organisation softwarecompany Journl.

Journl, which launched its online service designedto help individuals trying to manage hectic livesearlier this summer, has expanded rapidly since itsfoundation in 2011, growing from a launch teamof two to a full staff of 10 in under two years. Thecompany selected the Oxford Centre for Innovationas its headquarters because the fully servicednature of its offering allowed the firm’s founders toforget about the day-to-day problems associatedwith maintaining premises and focus on growth,but believes that the major factor responsible forthe facility’s success is due to its understanding ofthe pressures and issues facing new companies.

Schweppe added: “The city centre location andhigh quality facilities are clearly key advantages, butfor us the main benefit of working with the OxfordInnovation team is the added support and adviceon offer. They understand how start up companieswork, and are geared up to provide a blend ofsupport and expertise that has been very importantto our development.”

Hugh Bettesworth, Chief Executive of medicalimaging expert Mirada Medical, believes that themany start up businesses headquartered at thecentre has created a unique atmosphere. Thecompany, an Oxford University spinout that hasbeen located in the Centre since 2008, developsadvanced software applications designed to helphealthcare professionals use medical images moreeffectively and efficiently to improve cancer care.

He added: “Being surrounded by other newcompanies, particularly those in similar sectors toyour own, offers real business benefits. With othercompanies close by who’ve experienced the sameissues, or can even offer opportunities for newpartnerships, there’s a uniquely supportive workingculture here that is of tremendous value.”

Through its Innovation Services division, OxfordInnovation provides a full range of support formember businesses. Going well beyond the basicbricks and mortar provision offered by mostserviced office facilities, the centre is highly focusedupon helping high growth and start up businesses,providing advice on accessing finance in additionto facilitating access to the Government backedGrowth Accelerator Service, which helps England'sbrightest businesses achieve their ambitions withrapid, sustainable growth.

Margaret Hewitt added: “Oxford Innovation isn’t justabout providing suitable office and laboratoryspace. For us, that is where the partnership with ourclients really begins. With over 20 years ofexperience running business centres we trulyunderstand the needs of ambitious youngcompanies and are dedicated to working with themstep-by-step and providing the assistance theyneed to realise their true commercial potential.”

www.ocfi.co.uk

Economic news may have been gloomy in recent years, but business is booming in the heart of Oxford.

BUSINESS IS BOOMING:OXFORD CENTRE FOR INNOVATION SET FOR EXPANSION


“First and foremost, Oxfordis a great place to do

business. The combinationof fantastic transport

links, a vibrant technologysector and high qualityworkforce makes it an excellent place to live

and work”Karl Schweppe, Managing Director / co-founder Journl

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For businesses at a certain point in their lifecycle, trading internationallyis a natural next step. Making the move overseas can seem daunting, butthe benefits are clear: figures from UK Trade and Investment (UKTI)indicate that companies which export see a 34% increase in productivitywithin the first year of doing so, with 11% more likely to survive in thelong-term1.

Also, with the government currently working hard to encourage more SMEs totrade overseas, there is a range of support available to help you to overcomeany potential hurdles.

Prepare to succeedBefore embarking overseas, it’s important that you asses if your business isready. It can be useful at this point to speak to an expert, such as a UKTIInternational Trade Adviser, and to your accountant and bank to get an overviewof your financial situation. They can guide you through one of the most trickyaspects of trade internationally – ticking all legal and regulatory boxes, includingobtaining intellectual property (IP) protection.

Once you have decided which market you want to move into, the next step isto establish trusted local relationships, with many businesses choosing toworking with a partner ‘on the ground’ who can manage liaison with buyers,suppliers and distributors.

The right supportAs you begin to grow internationally, it is likely that you will need to make an

initial financial investment and hire more staff. Also, issues such as shippingtimescales and delayed invoice payment can begin to have an impact on yourcash flow. By planning in advance and putting the right solutions in place, youmay be able to enjoy a return on your investment sooner rather than later.

Experts can be vital at this stage – helping to prepare an informed internationalbusiness plan and providing valuable insight around foreign exchange,mitigating export risk and trade finance solutions. This could include informationabout the UK’s export credit agency, helping exporters and investors byproviding credit insurance policies, political risk insurance on overseasinvestments and guarantees on bank loans.

At Santander, we are serious about boosting our Trade Finance offering tosupport UK businesses. Our specialists have an in-depth understanding andexperience across the export and international trade markets. They offer realvalue by talking to customers about the whole trading cycle; conducting an‘International Health Check’ to identify efficiencies and appropriate financingsolutions which can help underpin your overseas success. Whichever pointyour business is at in developing its international focus, having an independentexpert who knows which markets are best suited to which industries and canassess current and future priorities is invaluable.

To see what your local trade finance expert could do to support yourinternational growth plans contact Justin Hayward: Telephone: 07809 493 739

businessinsight.santandercb.co.uk

To further support UK businesses Santander has launched Breakthrough; aninitiative that targets fast-growth SMEs, helping them to unlock their fullpotential. A key pillar of the programme is International – this focuses onboth education and supporting international growth.

One of the main elements of this initiative is Trade Missions. Groups of UKbusinesses are taken to visit key overseas markets, such as Brazil and the US;markets where Santander has strong corporate presence and links. This enables

delegates to connect directly with successful local businesses andentrepreneurs and gain valuable insight into expansion and exportopportunities. On return to the UK, the Breakthrough programme continues tosupport the delegates and input into ongoing international strategy.

If you would like to find out more about the Breakthrough and whether it wouldbe suitable for your business2, please visit: www.santanderbreakthrough.co.uk

2 Requirements are turnover between £500,000 and £25 million and have demonstrated strong growth in turnover, profitability or employment over the last three years.

1 Harris, R. and Q. Cher Li (2007), Firm Level Empirical Study of the Contribution of Exporting to UK Productivity. www.exploreexport.ukti.gov.uk

BREAKTHROUGH INTERNATIONAL

There are excellent opportunities for UK business to trade internationally, but it is important to have theright support in place before you make the leap.

INTERNATIONAL TRADE

B4 FINANCE

“conducting an ‘InternationalHealth Check’ to identify

efficiencies and appropriatefinancing solutions whichcan help underpin your

overseas success”


1. Does the lease have the protection of the Landlord and Tenant Act 1954(“the Act”)The vast majority of business tenants enjoy statutory security of tenure and (subjectto limited exceptions) have an automatic right to renew their lease when the termexpires, provided proper procedures are followed. However, some leases will havebeen contracted out of the Act, and very different considerations apply. Landlordsneed to take care – a business tenant who was occupying under a “contracted out”lease can sometimes gain protection under the Act if they remain in occupationafter the end of the lease. The key point is – do not assume your lease is protected,and if in doubt, seek advice.

However, assuming the lease is protected under the Act, then consider thefollowing:

2. Time limits are strict – compliance is vitalThe lease renewal process is triggered by the landlord serving a Section 25 Noticeor the tenant serving a Section 26 Request. The Notice must be in a prescribedform and be served no less than six months or more than twelve months beforethe termination/renewal date, and they cannot ask for an end/start date earlierthan the expiry of the old lease. Serving notices is a very technical area, with manypitfalls for the unwary – so you should always seek advice when you are eitherserved with or are serving a Section 25/26 Notice.

Similarly, deadlines for issuing Court proceedings after service of the Section 25/26Notice are strict. Tenants who fail to issue Court proceedings in time lose thestatutory right to renew their lease and will only obtain a new lease if their landlord(who then has the upper hand) is willing to negotiate. To avoid this, writtenextensions can be agreed before the deadline for issuing proceedings. Our teamcan provide advice on all notices and deadlines and ensure your position isprotected.

3. What is the likely new rent?Whether tenant or landlord, you should seek advice on this ideally about twelvemonths before the lease end (i.e before Section 25/26 Notices are served) or, atthe latest, straight after you receive a Notice. Likely new rent is a key driver ontactics. In a falling market tenants may want to act quickly and serve an early Section26 Request so they can negotiate a lower rent under a new lease. They may also

Rent and other lease payments are often one of the biggestoutgoings for a business. Therefore, when tenants renewtheir business leases this presents a good opportunity tomake sure that they are occupying on the best termspossible. Similarly, in these uncertain economic times,landlords want to maximise their rental yields and avoidhaving empty properties. In both cases careful planning andearly advice is critical. Drawing on their wide experience inadvising landlords and tenants on both contested anduncontested business lease renewals, Patrick Whetter of theCommercial Property Team and Clare Bellis of the PropertyLitigation Team at Henmans Freeth LLP set out a checklist ofkey tactical considerations:

A NEW LEASEOF LIFE?TIPS FOR BUSINESSLEASE RENEWALS

www.b4-business.com

want to seek a rent free period. Conversely, in a rising market landlords willserve early notices and will be thinking about preserving the right to interimrent (which can be sought at the same rate as rent under the new lease fromthe earliest date that can be specified in the Section 25/26 Notice).

4. Can you get any other more favourable terms?Issues such as the length of the term, rent review and alienation clauses canall have differing impacts on rental advice. You need to take a holistic approachto negotiations and make sure every aspect of the new lease is considered.In weak market conditions tenants should think about whether they cannegotiate more flexible clauses e.g a tenant’s break clause, amendments toservice charge provisions etc. Conversely landlords may want to consider usingdilapidations obligations under the old lease to their best tactical advantage.Our litigation property team work closely with our commercial property team,and jointly we can steer you through these tactical considerations.

5. Are there grounds for opposing a new lease?Section 30(1)(a-g) of the Act provides a limited number of grounds on whicha landlord can oppose the granting of a new lease. These include situationswhere:

(a) the property is in disrepair(b) rent is in arrears(c) there are other substantial breaches of lease(d) suitable alternative accommodation is available (e) there are sub-leases and specific criteria are met(f) landlord intends to demolish or reconstruct the premises(g) landlord intends to occupy the premises for his own business.

The grounds we see used most often are grounds (f) and (g). In contestedlease renewals it is important to seek early legal advice. We regularly workwith tenants facing eviction under S.30(1) and advise on what evidence theyneed to gather to challenge and test their landlords’ intentions. It can bedifficult to defeat the landlord’s claims, but we often find that a robust testingof the evidence can result in tenants obtaining payments on vacating theproperty under a negotiated settlement. Likewise, we guide our landlord clientsthrough the process and assist in preparing evidence that will prove theirchosen grounds and obtain the vacant possession they require.

6. Alternatives to litigation – PACT/Mediation/Offers?The vast majority of business lease renewals settle by negotiation. However, ifthe parties and their surveyors are just too far apart, there are still many optionsto explore before you reach court. PACT (Professional Arbitration on CourtTerms) is a scheme offered by RICS and the Law Society. It is a flexible processthat is ideal for disputes about rent and is generally quicker and cheaper thanCourt proceedings. Members of our team are experienced in the PACTarbitration process and can guide you through this.

Similarly, other lease renewal disputes (particularly if they involve any widercommercial issues than just the terms of the new lease) will be ideal formediation. Again our team regularly participate in and settle disputes atmediation.

Where negotiations/arbitration/mediation are not suitable or fail, and Courtproceedings are required, we encourage clients to make early cost protectiveoffers to try to improve the chances of obtaining a costs order against theiropponents. At Henmans Freeth, we will talk to you at an early stage abouttactics in making and responding to offers.

Further informationFor further information on renewing business leases, or if you are seeking toend a business lease please contact Clare Bellis, senior associate in theproperty litigation team on 01865 781058 /[email protected] or Patrick Whetter, partner in thecommercial property team on 01865 781145 /[email protected].

B4 ADVICE

73

“You need to take a holistic approach to

negotiations and makesure every aspect of

the new lease is considered”

Clare Bellis, Property Litigaion Team, Henmans Freeth

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Hawkwell House, one of Oxford’s most prestigious independent hotels,upgrades to the four star market this autumn following more than £1.5mof investment.

The potential of this Iffley village hotel, set in the historic Oxford house wherethe renowned Antarctic explorer Francis Bickerton was born in 1889, has neverfully been realised -- until now. Its Oxford village location, including a stunningriverside walk into the heart of the city, ample free car parking and extensivegrounds, are attributes other city hotels can only hope for.

“The potential of Hawkwell House as a four star hotel has always been there”observes general manager Tim Spittles. Tim has overseen the investment thathas repositioned this unique location on the Oxford hotel scene.

“Our first strategy was to sensitively add 11 bedrooms in to the original early19th century house” explains Tim. “Because of the design we have made these

Superior rooms, including very creative roof lighting providing all round naturallight to the rooms.”

To do this the whole of the central area of the house has been re-worked,beginning with the plan to ensure an easier flow through of the customerexperience. Now the main function room, access to bedrooms and the stunningnew bistro restaurant all have a more logical integration with each other.

Tim also believes that the investment in the additional rooms and therefurbishment programme across all of the hotel areas changes the businessdynamic. Not only does the investment move the hotel in to the four starmarket but also, with now 77 bedrooms in the market place, allows the hotelto review the business segments it can attract.

www.hawkwellhouse.co.uk

Cornish artist Jo Downes has produced some stunning glass panels forthe new Iffley Blue Restaurant. Jo is one of the world’s most prominentfused glass designers.

Using an advanced fusion technique which allows for the creation of abstractdesigns of great individuality and depth, Jo has created an ‘inside out’ effectwith the glass depicting flowing rivers, hills, valleys and sky across the tenpanels. There are also panels of striking wall coverings reflecting bold stands ofwoodland.

Jo, who has been commissioned for P&O cruise ships, the National Trust andMolton Brown, as well as privately by individuals such as the singer Joss Stone,said Iffley Blue was a joy to work on because the lightness of the room.

“My work is inspired by the colours and texture of nature and for Iffley Blue Iwanted to create something really natural and beautiful that I hope will bringa little of the outside in and enhance the experience” she explained.

www.hawkwellhouse.co.uk

newsHawkwell House Hotel looks to a bright future after investment

Hand made glass from Devon stars in Iffley Blue

75www.hawkwellhouse.co.ukwww.b4-business.com

One of our new rooms with roof lights

The new bar in Iffley Blue

One of the panels by Jo Downess

WINDRUSH COURT Transport Way, Watlington Road, Oxford

FOR SALE/TO LET

unrivalled local andregional expertise

71,955 sq ftHeadquarters office building with fully fitted laboratories. On secure site.EPC Rating – D (100)

BANNISTER HOUSELangford Locks, Kidlington

TO LET/FOR SALE

2,379 – 14,685 sq ftProminent Grade A office building well locatedopposite Oxford Airport.EPC Rating – C (67)

TOWN HALLSt Aldate’s, Oxford

TO LET

6,651 sq ftSelf contained Period offices within historic of-fice Town Hall.EPC Rating – N/A Listed Building

SEACOURT TOWERWest Way, Botley, OxfordTO LET

Richard Venables [email protected] Barton [email protected] May [email protected]

2nd Floor West Wing – 4,700 sq ft3rd Floor West Wing – 3,742 sq ft3rd Floor West Wing – 2,229 sq ftA range of high quality air conditioned officeswith easy access and proximity to Oxford CityCentre and the A34. EPC Rating – D (78)

Chawley Park, Cumnor Hill, Oxford– Letting of 4,962 sq ft of offices

to Hartwell PLC

9 Oxonian Park, Langford Locks, Kidlington– Letting of 9,169 sq ft to M-Solv

10 The Parade, Kidlington– Investment sale of 1,084 sq ft of retail let to S & RChilds Funeral Services & residential accommodation

71 London Road, Headington– Investment sale of 2,480 sq ft of retail accommodation

let to Starbucks Coffee Company (UK) Ltd

Deals, Deals and more Deals…..

news

www.b4-business.com 77www.vslandp.com

9 Station Park, Witney – Letting of 5,410 sq ft to Topps Tiles

Park Central, Park End Street, Oxford– Letting of 8,616 sq ft to The Institute & Faculty

of Actuaries

Beaumont House, East Point Business Park– Letting of 14,119 sq ft of two storey refurbished

offices to Cancer Partners (UK) Ltd

Following the long hot summer of 2013 it seems it is not just themeteorological climate that has improved. Upbeat economic data nowappears to be reflected in the Oxfordshire commercial property market.

Despite a very quiet summer with little market activity we can now point tothree significant changes that lead us to believe that times are changing. Firstly,we are now receiving enquiries from businesses who are talking about growthand expansion rather than discussing downsizing and reletting of surplusproperty.

Secondly, the speed of commercial property transaction is quickening. For thelast 5 years landlords and vendors have sat patiently whilst tenants andpurchasers pick holes through contracts and try and chip on prices. This weeksaw the completion of a complex 50,000 sq ft warehouse acquisition within 8weeks and where the new occupier has been pushing hard for completion sothey can install newly ordered equipment for their expanding business.

Thirdly, office stock levels are reducing at a greater pace due to a combinationof increased take up and vacant stock being converted to residential use. Thisweek we celebrated the completion of the letting of the final suite ofNorthbrook House on The Oxford Science Park where we have now let 6 officestotalling 24,000 sq ft over the last 4 years with generous rent free incentivesand numerous bicycles as additional bait. Following the change in planninglaws allowing conversion of office to residential use we calculate that approx80,000 sq ft of secondary (or even tertiary office buildings) are likely to betaken out of the available office stock. Whilst this might appear to take awayopportunities for emerging businesses the reality is that many of the buildingsare now obsolete and do not provide the type of space modern businessesrequire. We believe this reduction in stock will give developers the confidenceto consider new office development.

We therefore hope that this positivity breeds further activity.

Positive Market Signs .....................?

6 The Terrace, Harwell International Business Centre

– Sale of 1,900 sq ft to Retail Active

Northbrook House, Oxford Science Park – Letting of 3,974 sq ft ground floor office suite

to Circassia

Oxford Office: Cranbrook House,287/291 Banbury Road,Summertown, Oxford, OX2 7JQTel: 01865 552925

With the future looking brighter, let The MGroup

support you and your business on your route to success.

Moving In The Right Direction

Accountancy ˙ Business Development ˙ Registered Auditors Computer Solutions ˙ Taxation ˙ Corporate FinanceSoftware Development ˙ Financial Services

Witney Office: Harvestway House,28 High Street,Witney, Oxfordshire, OX28 6RATel: 01993 776476

Vist the website: www.theMgroup.co.uk

The competition saw 16 of Oxford’sfinest, all hoping take part to win thedancing crown which included brainsurgeons, authors and singers amongothers and attracted an audience of1,000 people at the Oxford NewTheatre.

This is the second year of thecompetition and was judged by dancingexperts David Roberts and Andrea Law,choreographer Ian Botham and BBCRadio Oxford’s Bill Heine.

Vale House in Oxford, a hospice carecentre, will benefit from the £30,000raised on the night. The care home has40 beds and provides specialist care tomen and women who suffer fromdementia in its severest forms.

The home was originally set-up in 1990and has since moved to a state-of-the-art location in Sandford, providingnursing care for patients.

Karl and his professional dancing partnerReka Balogh won after 60 hours oftraining. To clinch the crown, Karl andReka performed the Jive, AmericanSmooth and a show dance tribute to‘The Mask’.”

Winner and senior director at LloydsBank Commercial Banking, KarlLeitelmayer, said: “Taking part in thecompetition was an amazing experience,Vale House is a very worthy cause and Iam still stunned by the support boththrough sponsorship and people’scomments.

“My professional dance partner and Itrained for nearly 60 hours for the night.My dance was a tribute to ‘The Mask’.

This is the latest charity event that Karlhas taken part in, earlier this year heaccompanied a team of eight fromLloyds Bank Commercial Banking to helpHelen & Douglas House, another Oxford-based hospice by preparing donatedfurniture for sale in its charity shops.

The charity cares for children and youngadults with life-shortening illnesses,offering specialist symptom and painmanagement, medically-supported shortbreaks and end-of-life care, as well ascounselling and practical support for thefamilies.

The vast majority of the £5 million a yearneeded to run Helen & Douglas Houseis from voluntary donations.

To help support the charity, the teamfrom Lloyds Bank Commercial Bankingtook part in a Furniture Fiesta whichinvolved painting and redecorating oldfurniture.

Karl Leitelmayer, of Lloyds BankCommercial Banking, said: “It was apleasure for our team to help out thisworthy cause. Taking part in events likethis provides a real sense of givingsomething back to the community whilegiving colleagues a change to theireveryday jobs.

“Helen & Douglas House does not justhelp the young people in its care, itsupports their family and friends too. Theproject was both enjoyable and insightfuland events like these are vital in allowingthe hospice to carry on its work.”

www.valehouse.org.uk

“I am still stunned by the support both throughsponsorship and people’s comments”

Karl Leitelmayer - Lloyds Commercial Banking


Senior director for Lloyds Bank Commercial Banking inOxfordshire, Karl Leitelmayer, has raised more than £3,000 for alocal charity by taking part and winning Strictly Oxford, the city’sanswer to the popular BBC1 programme Strictly Come Dancing.

STRICTLYFUNDRAISINGFOR OXFORDSHIRE BANKER

B4 SPOTLIGHT

The award-winning Williams Conference Centre offers a unique environment that will cater to all of yourcorporate hospitality needs.

LOOKING FOR A VENUE TOINSPIRE, MOTIVATEAND REWARD?



B4 VENUES

Located at the home of the Williams F1 Teamjust outside of Wantage, Oxfordshire WilliamsConference Centre has established itself as oneof the UK’s premier event venues.

The Williams Conference Centre facilities include acollection of ten event rooms of varying sizes andcapacity to cater for up to 200 guests whether it befor a team building exercise, meeting or awardsdinner it is supported by superb catering andservice - all of which has been recognised in theM&IT Awards every year for the last four years.

The Centre is also the proud home of the WilliamsGrand Prix Collection, the largest private collectionof formula one cars in the world.

What we have on offer:

Conferences & Product Launches

The Ayrton Senna Theatre is a fully equippedpresentation room, which can seat 200 people,offers a built-in stage with three large projectionscreens, stage lights, surround sound and comeswith the service of our in-house AV technician,cutting down on your needs for hiring additional AVservices.

Seminars & Training Courses

A range of rooms suitable for 1-on-1 coaching orgroups of up to 50 guests are available. All comewith presentation equipment as standard and aprivate hospitality room which double as a breakoutarea, saving you the need to hire another room forany catering requirements.

Team Building

In-house we offer a range of fun experiences whichyou can use in your day’s activities to help bringyour team together.

• F1 simulator - Test the driving and concentrationskills of guests whilst providing entertainment forcolleagues at the same time

• The BATAK Challenge – Why not test reactiontimes and even fitness levels for all ages andabilities?

• Giant F1 Scalextric - Promote team work whilstensuring guests understand the need for clearcommunication.

• Williams PitStop Challenge - This is the ultimatein demonstrating the requirements required tocreate a winning team. Accepting individualsstrengths and weaknesses, guests are instructedhow to change the wheels on a Formula One carwith the objective of completing a ‘PitStop’ in justseconds.

Awards & Celebrations

Mark your celebrations with award-winning cateringin an environment that promotes innovation andsuccess. We can cater for sit-down events of up to200 guests in our Drivers Suite which includes theAyrton Senna presentation room.

Corporate Hospitality

Each season we operate a number of Grand PrixRace Day events offering you the chance toentertain colleagues and friends at the home of theWilliams F1 Team. Join Williams F1 Team membersto watch the Grand Prix and get a real behind the

scenes insight to activities at the circuit. Eventsinclude access to the Williams Grand Prix Collectionalong with F1 Simulator Challenge, RaceSweepstake, BATAK Challenge, ScalextricChallenge, Hospitality Bar and superb catering. Afull day of entertainment.

Something for the weekend!

Williams Grand Prix Collection Tours

Tickets are sold for set dates throughout the yearfor an escorted tour of the world’s largest collectionof Formula One cars. The Williams Grand PrixCollection charts the history of the Williams F1Team from 1978 giving you the chance to get upclose and witness the developments that haveshaped the sport into what it is today. Informationon the technology used will be explained withvideos and a tour along with examples ofmaterials, tests and challenges the team face inthe development of it’s cars. Visit includesrefreshments and lunch.

Race Day Specials

Each season we operate a Grand Prix Race DaySpecial, designed for family and friends with apassion for Formula One. Hosted by Williams F1Team members, we offer an affordable way ofgetting close to the team and offer behind thescene information whilst enjoying access to theWilliams Grand Prix Collection and F1 SimulatorChallenge. Package includes refreshments, a twocourse buffet luncheon and cash bar.

For more information please contact us on01235 777900, [email protected] orvisit our www.williamsconferencecentre.comfor more information.

“We have created a 1st class events facility, aunique venue which offers outstanding cateringand service. Something we are truly proud of.” SirFrank Williams.

“We have created a 1st class events facility, a unique venue which offers outstanding catering and service.Something we aretruly proud of.”

The Ambassadors Club

City Audio Visual started trading in 1985 under its original name of CityTelevision, starting as a retail shop specialising in servicing and satellitereception.

C: Katie Mildenhall | E: [email protected] | T: 01865 722800 |W: www.cityav.co.uk

CITY AUDIO VISUAL

10% OffEquipment Hire

Lady Margaret Hall is an academic community, utterly committed toresearch and scholarship and to effective, highly personalised teachingand learning for students from all backgrounds.

C: Bill Kemp | E: [email protected] | T: 01865 611079 |W: www.lmh.ox.ac.uk

LADY MARGARET HALL

10% OffAny accommodation & Meeting Bookings

Specialising in short run (1-1000) CD and DVD duplication, andreplication services (1000+) we can cater for all your marketingrequirements.

C: Cheryl-Lee Foulsham | E: cheryl@the duplicationcentre.co.uk| T: 01865 457000 | W: www.cityav.co.uk

THE OXFORD DUPLICATION CENTRE

10% OffAll in-house digital media services

Studio8 Provide professional photography and video services withinOxford and the UK. We are proud to be B4’s preferred photographers.Subjects can include: People, Products, Interior, Location and more.

C: Clark Wiseman | E: [email protected] | T: 01865 842525 |W: www.studio-8.co.uk

STUDIO 8

10% OffOn standard prices

Glooo is an Oxford based outsourced ‘intelligent business development’company. We monitor our client websites, and social media outputs toestablish visitor information data.

C: Chris Jones | E: [email protected] | T: 01865 595707 |W: www.glooo.co.uk

GLOOO

FreeBaseline review/report

At the Spice Lounge the emphasis is on organic and creative dishes.Ethnic recipes are used to provide a diverse, unusual menu, whilefocusing on healthy eating.

E: [email protected] | T: 01865 510 071 |W: www.spiceloungeoxford.co.uk

SPICE LOUNGE

10% OffOn your food bill

At A1 Plumbing & Heating we offer a complete service with competitiverates for all your plumbing and heating requirements on any scale, largeor small.

C: Justin Sinclair | E: [email protected] | T: 01865 327732 |W: www.a1limited.co.uk

A1 PLUMBING & HEATING

20% OffGas Boiler Servicing and Repairs

We help small business owners to achieve the clarity, focus andstructure they need to attract customers and grow their business.

C: Jackie Jarvis | E: [email protected] |T: 01491 833222 | W: www.a1limited.co.uk

MARKETINGCO

FreeBusiness development mentoring session

BECOME AN AMBASSADOR AND BENEFIT FROM AMAZING DISCOUNTS AND GREATDEALS FROM OTHER B4 MEMBERS


The Ambassadors Card This ia new benefit for B4 Ambassadors. Receive your personalised card in the postwhich will entitle you to benefit from amazing discounts and great deals from other B4 Members. Why notmake us an offer? In addition to benefiting from other member offers, why not include your offer in the scheme?Promote a benefit to obver 150 B4 Ambassadors and, depending on the nature of the offer, this can be extended(at your request) to all employees in the Ambassador’s company if you would like to each a wider audience.

Oxford Event Hire was established in 1990 with a clear vision to providepremium quality products and unbeatable service for both private andcorporate clients in the events industry.

C: Kieran Lynch | E: [email protected] |T: 01865 760158 | W: www.oxfordeventhire.co.uk

OXFORD EVENT HIRE

10% OffEquipment Hire

Free lunch for 2 when booking private dining for at least 8 people.Housed in a former vicarage on a leafy lane in Shinfield, L’Ortolan offersan exceptional dining experience. Terms & Conditions apply.

C: Sally Albin | E: [email protected] | T: 0118 988 9107 |W: www.lortolan.com

L’ORTOLAN

FreeLunch for two

Via the BLUE® helpline, your legal team will give you up to a total of20 minutes FREE time on a particular enquiry. In our experience this islong enough to deal with most enquiries that crop up.

C: Simon McCrum | E: [email protected] | T: 01865 811256 |W: www.darbys.co.uk

DARBYS

From £180Will and free annual review

Heythrop Park Resort has undergone refurbishment of the Health Club& Spa, the 18 hole golf course to championship standards and openinga second hotel, a new 197 bedroom four star Crowne Plaza..

C: Tracy Stanton | E: [email protected] | T: 01608 673333 |W: www.heythropparkresort.co.uk

HEYTHROP PARK RESORT

Round discounts£20 pp Mon to Fri - £25 pp Sat & Sun

It makes every moment of your stay a special memory. It’s in the smilethat greets you and in the warmth and friendliness you’ll feel while youare here.

C: Peter Farquhar | E: [email protected] |T: 01189 527770 | W: www.theforburyhotel.co.uk

THE FORBURY

25% OffYour food bill

Voted Best Independent Wine Retailer and Wholesaler in the UK 2011 byHarpers Wine & Spirit Magazine. Named Regional Wine Merchant of theYear 2007/2010 by the prestigious International Wine Challenge judges.

C: Theo Sloot | E: [email protected] | T: 01865 301144 |W: www.oxfordwine.co.uk

THE OXFORD WINE COMPANY

10% OffAt our 4 retail outlets

Proud of its 900-year-old history, the Manor is today a country househotel, opening its doors to guests who seek a truly relaxed escape, withfine food, fine wine and beautiful, fascinating surroundings.

C: Christian Kaberg | E: [email protected] |T: 01869 350621 | W: http://themanorweston.comk

THE MANOR

20% OffOn food and beverage


The 2013 Budget was a great indicator of the Government’s continuedsupport and encouragement of UK businesses carrying out qualifyingresearch and development (R&D), and the exploitation of registeredpatented technology, with the announcement of more generous taxreliefs for these businesses, and the introduction of the widely anticipated‘patent box’.

These announcements form part of the Government’s wider economic plansto generate more income from the science and technology industry, by makingthe UK a competitive market for both national and international innovativebusinesses.

What is R&D for tax purposes?

Essentially, it is the investment into achieving an advance in science ortechnology through the resolution of scientific or technological uncertainties.

This could be a newly improved product or process; it doesn’t have to be rocketscience!

The UK legislation currently provides two types of R&D tax relief, dependingon the size of the company or organisation; the small or medium-sizedenterprise (SME) relief, and the large company relief. Each of the reliefs canbe claimed in two different ways; a super-deduction, and a claimable cashcredit from HM Revenue & Customs (HMRC). Historically, the legislation didnot allow large companies to claim a cash credit, however from April 1, 2013,the Government introduced an R&D expenditure credit, where this is nowpossible. A summary of the reliefs are given in the table below. (see fig.1)

Patent Box

In addition to these reliefs, the patent box regime was introduced with effectfrom April 1, 2013. Broadly speaking, the patent box enables companies to


R&D TAX RELIEF SUMMARY FIG.1

Description Description SME relief Large company relief

Super-deduction Allows companies to deduct anadditional amount on top of theirqualifying R&D expenditure withtheir tax returns.

Extra deduction of £125 allowedfor every £100 spent on qualifyingR&D. This gives a net cost of£48.25 on £100 of qualifying R&Dexpenditure when a 23% corpora-tion tax rate is applied.

Extra deduction of £30 allowed forevery £100 spent on qualifyingR&D. This gives a net cost of£70.10 on £100 of qualifying R&Dexpenditure when a 23% corpora-tion tax rate is applied.

Cash credit claimable Allows companies to claim a cashrepayment from HMRC.

Available to loss-making SMEs at arate of 24.75%. This gives a cashreceipt of £24.75 on £100 ofqualifying R&D expenditure whena 23% corporation tax rate is applied.

Available to large companies at agross rate of 10% of their qualifyingR&D expenditure. The credit is re-payable net of tax, this gives a netcash receipt of £7.7 on £100 ofqualifying expenditure when a 23%corporation tax rate is applied.

Samantha VanagsKaty Rabindran

apply a 10% corporation tax rate to profits earned from its patented inventionsand certain other innovations.

Innovative thinking

The innovation team has strategically evolved from a group of R&D specialistsmainly working in London and the Thames Valley region, to an expandingnational network of dynamic innovation specialists. Regional specialists arecurrently situated in several local offices including Manchester and Cambridge;the plan being to expand the team to 25 heads by FY2016.

Samantha Vanags created and heads the innovation team, and has worked inR&D since the relief was first introduced in 2000. Having attended andinfluenced many of the HM Treasury consultations regarding the recentlyenacted legislation, Vanags has not only key technical insight into the legislation,but invaluable practical experience in dealing with HMRC and its views on abroad range of issues that exist within R&D claims. As a result, the team has agood working relationship with many of the R&D inspectors at HMRC, which isvaluable when settling HMRC enquiries into R&D claims.

Katy Rabindran leads the team in the Thames Valley. She says, “The ThamesValley is a real hub for innovative companies, and we work on claims foreverything from satellites launched into space, to improved software solutionsfor internet dating. These reliefs are far more widely available than manycompanies first think, and the cash refunds generated from HMRC can be

substantial – recently one of my clients secured over £1 million in cashrefunds.”

The team uses methodologies agreed with HMRC when preparing andsubmitting R&D claims. They invest a great deal of time at the outset tounderstand the key R&D projects carried out by the business throughinterviewing or conducting workshops with key personnel, followed by detailed

data analysis to extract associated qualifying costs in relation to the R&Dprojects. The team also work with businesses in preparing the accompanyingnarrative which describes why the projects are qualifying R&D. Thismethodology has proved very successful in ensuring robust, fully supportableclaims are submitted to HMRC.

The team have worked, and currently work with many dynamic businesses thatare very influential within the UK’s science and technology industries, withextensive experience in both SME and large company claims.

Samantha [email protected]

Katy [email protected]

Grant Thornton UK LLP is moving full steam ahead with its investment into a new national innovation team,set up to increase its national market offering to businesses who deal in all areas of innovation, includingresearch and development. Samantha Vanags and Katy Rabindran discuss the evolution of the team andits plans for the future.

TAX TURNSINNOVATIVE

“Broadly speaking, the patent boxenables companies to apply a10% corporation tax rate to

profits earned from its patentedinventions and certain other

innovations”

“the team has a good working relationship with many of the R&D inspectors at HMRC, which is

valuable when settling HMRC enquiries into R&D claims”

B4 FINANCE


Larry joins us with a wealth of experience in 1, 2 and 3 Michelin-starred restaurants in London and the south east, and is already creating a stir with his team at The Manor.

Larry’s cooking is fresh and seasonal with a lightness of touch and superb flavour combinations. Join us for lunch or dinner to experience Larry’s seasonal tasting menus or the delights of our á la carte menu.

We are truly delighted to announce the appointment

of Larry Jayasekara as Executive Chef at The Manor.

. . . A T T H E M A N O R W E S T O N

FOR MORE INFORMATION OR TO MAKE A RESERVATION PLEASE VISIT OUR WEBSITE OR CONTACT US USING THE DETAILS BELOW:

THE MANOR AT WESTON~ON~THE~GREEN OXFORDSHIRE, OX 25 3QL TEL: +44 (0)1869 350621 EMAIL: [email protected] WWW.THEMANORWESTON.CO.UK

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Celebrating 60 years in the optometry business this year more thanqualifies Robert Stanley Opticians to talk about the importance of eyehealth. As co-owner and contact lens optician John Edwards explains:"We are dedicated to clinical excellence and personal service, alwaysputting the customer first and never compromising on quality."

But there is more than one reason why it is important to have a regular eyecheck, says John Edwards. The eye is a unique window into health and anoptometrist can detect and diagnose a range of medical conditions whenundertaking an eye examination.

"These conditions aren't necessarily restricted to eye diseases like cataractsand glaucoma," he says, " but conditions like diabetes, cardiovascular diseaseand liver disease as well. This isn't scaremongering, but a sound reason whypeople should have their eyes tested at least once every two years.

Nowadays, there are few of us in the business world who do not use acomputer regularly, but eyes are not designed for non-stop computer use,which can lead to all sorts of complaints related to eyestrain, such asheadaches, dry eyes or blurred vision.

To help minimise computer eye strain, Robert Stanley shares a few guidelineshere:• Your monitor should be directly in front of you at little lower than eye levelabout 45 to 75 centimeters from your face

• If you are copying from other documents, rest them on a stand next to themonitor to avoid flicking your eyes up and down from the screen to thedocument

• Adjust your monitor to keep the glare down, and if you wear glasses, makesure they have an anti-reflection coating on the lenses

• Often you blink less often when focusing on your screen, so adopt the20-20 rule - every 20 minutes take a 20 second break to help rehydrateyour eyes

• Invest in an anti-static cloth or spray to minimise dust which can irritate youreyes

• Try to avoid working with bright sunlight coming in through a window or fromharsh overhead lighting.

Of course eyesight, good or otherwise, doesn't just centre around usingcomputers in the workplace, we need good eyesight to enjoy life in generaland to keep us safe. Robert Stanley is concerned by the results of a recentsurvey of 1,000 car drivers conducted by the road safety charity Brake whichreveals some alarming statistics.

They discovered nearly one in 10 people who need glasses or lenses don'talways wear them when driving. Furthermore, of those who claimed they don'tneed glasses or lenses, one in three haven't had their eyes checked in the lasttwo years, so can't be certain their vision is up to scratch. And a worrying onein 11 (9%) admit not visiting an optician for five years or more, or never, with3%, (that's the equivalent of more than one million UK drivers), have neverbeen to an optician.

"Employers have a duty of care to ensure that their staff's eyesight is protectedwhile at work," says John Edwards, "but equally, individuals need to takeresponsibility for their own eyesight, particularly where something like drivingsafely is concerned."

And responsibility is something Robert Stanley Opticians understand andindeed is central to its business. The company is continually searching for newways to develop the business in terms of both clinical and productdevelopments. They are continually looking to expand the choice of expertiseoffered by their clinicians, most recently adding a non-invasive treatment forshort sightedness and visual dyslexia in children to their range of specialties.They have spent many years developing relationships with leading lens andframe manufacturers in the UK and overseas in order to cater for the individualcustomers requirements.

"We need to ensure that we continue to stay dynamic and monitor ourcustomer needs. As technology fills in some of the challenges of sellingspectacles online, we envisage a growing importance in our internet business.

"But there will always be a need for a high street location and in this respectwe will be looking to open further stores in the right locations over the next 60years!" www.robertstanley.co.uk

KEEPINGIN FOCUSRobert Stanley Opticians, which runs five branchesacross Oxfordshire, is on a mission to encouragepeople across the county to look after their eyes.


“Employers have a duty of care to ensure that their staff's eyesight is protected while at work, but equally, individuals need to take responsibility fortheir own eyesight, particularly where

something like driving safely is concerned”John Edwards - Robert Stanley Opticians

B4 HEALTH

UNEARTHING THEEXPERTS’ STORIES


COLIN BUGGEYHead of Architecture & Building Consultancy19 years' service

DESCRIBE YOUR TYPICAL CLIENTTwo types: private clients who own country houses or townhouses whowant to alter or extend or, educational & institutional clients who needhelp with listed or period buildings

BRIEF OVERVIEW OF WHAT YOU DO FOR YOUR CLIENTWe guide clients through their build projects from initial feasibility studythrough to design and project management to successful completion.I also act as an expert witness in professional negligence disputes orbuilding defects in the construction industry

WHAT'S THE MOST UNUSUAL THING YOU'VE SEEN IN YOUR JOB?We once found a suede leather child’s jacket in the roof space of aMedieval house in Abingdon – that was really exciting. It used to be goodluck to hide articles of children’s clothing in the houses. It is nowdisplayed in Abingdon Museum

AND FINALLY, WHAT YOU’VE LEARNT?On a building site, never be too arrogant to learn from the tradesman.Listen to the grafter as well as the big boss

MICHAEL LUNTEducation team20 years' service

DESCRIBE YOUR TYPICAL CLIENTBursars of colleges or independent schools in Oxford and across the UK,generally boarding, who need full surveys and costs to help with plannedand routine maintenance

BRIEF OVERVIEW OF WHAT YOU DO FOR YOUR CLIENTAs a specialist education surveyor, I deal with inspection and conditionreports.

I look at historic buildings and comment how they don’t comply withcurrent standards and suggest ways they can be brought close to, or up tocorrect standards, with a likely cost and priorities with a 7-10 year plan

WHAT'S THE MOST UNUSUAL THING YOU'VE SEEN IN YOUR JOB?On a lead roof, the lead maker had carved the shape of his foot and datedit 1750. Things like that make you realise you’re standing amongst history

AND FINALLY, WHAT YOU’VE LEARNT?Never make assumptions when surveying a building – the devil is alwaysin the detail

Agents, valuers, property managers, and planners are just some of the 70+ people who you would expect to seeworking in Carter Jonas’ Oxford office.

But what if you were told that you would also find: a fully qualified architect, a man who spends most of his time stillat school, a mapping expert, and someone who lives and breathes the public sector?

Well, we set about unearthing them to hear their fascinating stories. www.carterjonas.co.uk


B4 PROPERTY

IAN MACEYHead of Oxford Mapping16 years' service

DESCRIBE YOUR TYPICAL CLIENTWe support our clients and colleagues with any mapping related request.It could be for a house, land or estate. Solicitors use us too for house saleand boundary disputes

BRIEF OVERVIEW OF WHAT YOU DO FOR YOUR CLIENTWe produce estate, utility, and site plans. We look at proposed sites andproduce contextual analysis plans ie flood plains, designated areasreferencing and ownership plans, 3D analysis and modelling andGeographic Information Systems

WHAT'S THE MOST UNUSUAL THING YOU'VE SEEN IN YOUR JOB?I was asked to produce a land use map of an estate comprising 95,000hectares of land in Guinea, West Africa. My most unusual request wasbeing asked to produce a full range of plans for a proposed slurry pitincluding cross sections!

AND FINALLY, WHAT YOU’VE LEARNT?Listen to the client to understand exactly their requirements and be clearin what you are going to produce for them

MARK HALL-DIGWEEDHead of Public Sector13 years' service

DESCRIBE YOUR TYPICAL CLIENTPublic sector clients across central Government, local authorities andQuangos, including Network Rail, Nuclear Decommissioning Agency, andthe Homes & Communities Agency

BRIEF OVERVIEW OF WHAT YOU DO FOR YOUR CLIENTIt’s all about collaborative engagement: we focus on establishing ourclients’ property objectives, working out the requirements needed todeliver the property solutions for those objectives, managing the processand measuring the result

WHAT'S THE MOST UNUSUAL THING YOU'VE SEEN IN YOUR JOB?In Kazakhstan, I led an expert witness team covering mapping, GIS andland surveyors to assess the volumes of material moved historically andon going in huge iron ore quarries. The scale was amazing: 1 mile deepwith spoil heaps over 2.5 miles long, and it was -33 degrees

AND FINALLY, WHAT YOU’VE LEARNT?Always be straight with clients: tell them how it is, not what they want tohear.

The more I talk to the mentors the more Irealise just how much they benefit from beinga mentor. Yes they give generously of their timeand experience, and more importantly they dothat without expectation of anything in return.Mentoring is not a trade-off, it is absolutegenerosity.

What none of them ever expect, is what they getin return. They get thanked, they get praised, theyget feedback immediately from the client, orperhaps weeks later. They get awareness that theyhave something amazing to offer, something thatfew have to offer – experience in running a smallbusiness.

This in turn means that all of the mentors grow inself belief, and self confidence, and that makesthem better at running their own business.

An open discussion allows us all to learn, and if weare generous we give that learning away whereverwe think it can make a difference. www.oxfordbusinessmentors.org

You have probably heard the expression ‘to givein order to receive’, or ‘the more you put in, themore you get out’. These phrases are indicativeof the spiritual nature of generosity. If you giveexpecting to receive, then that is merely doingbusiness - a trade. If you give withoutexpectation of something in return, then that ispure generosity - it is warm-hearted. People feel

the difference in an emotional way. People withawareness will notice the difference in yourbody language, tone of voice, inflexion etc etc….what we call ‘the music’

In business particularly people want to give theimpression of being strong, and in control. There islittle room for generosity, especially if that makes

you feel vulnerable - and yet, and here’s the rub, itis by being generous that you build authentic,lasting business relationships.

www.conventionislimited.co.uk(website under reconstruction)

Thinking Differently


Mentoring

I didn’t really want to run a business. I trainedas an accountant, didn’t really like it, butassumed that I would remain an accountant inindustry until retirement – at least I was beingpaid enough to feed the family.

That all changed when my father asked for my help,got me involved in the family business, and a fewyears later died suddenly. That was a bit of a shockI can tell you. I spent an emotional day telling ourtenants the sad news. Their generosity to me,giving me time, allowing me to open up in front ofthem, even crying with me, changed the way thatwe worked together. The relationship evolved intoone of mutual trust, rather than nervousacceptance. The lease, as a legal document toregulate the relationship, became redundant.Trusting communication was the way forward.

It is easy to serve your tenant (customer) byproviding the premises (or service or goods). Thatis what all landlords do. What I did was to take thetime to consider the tenants needs when rentingpremises. I began to understand the anxieties theyhad, especially if they were moving in to premisesfor the first time. I began to feel empathy. My job Irealised was to do my best to make them feelcomfortable, relaxed, at ease, at home.

When you move beyond mere ‘service’ and thinkof it as ‘hospitality’; when you stop thinking aboutthe buildings and start thinking about making thetenants feel at ease; when you stop worrying abouthow much damage the tenant may do to a building,and start being accommodating of their needs;when you stop thinking about the commercialagenda of your business, and start putting peoplefirst, that is where generosity springs from.

And of course what happens is that in most casesour tenants respect the way we treat them andrespond in a similar way. And in the long run ourcustomers become our marketing department!

Many years later and I have built such a fantasticteam who really understand the need forgenerosity. Giving time, space, acceptance, andpraise is as much a part of generosity as givingmoney. We are generous, we notice when tenantsare generous back to us, and we talk about it sothat our focus remains on one of the mostimportant aspects of the way we do business, andwhat makes us different to other landlords.

www.jennings.co.uk

Generosity at the heart of Business

Mike Jennings - Chairman of Jennings

Leadership and Purpose

Oxford Castle Quarter has been a hub of entertainment, exuberance and fun this summer. As the summer begins tofade the Quarter is determined to continue with the merriment and absolutely everyone is invited!

EAT. DRINK. ENJOY. DON’T LET THE END OF THE SUMMERBE THE END OF THE FUN!


B4 R&R

This summer many of you have sunk hazily intoa deckchair, sipped on a cocktail, basked in thesunshine, and felt the golden sand betweenbeneath. Amazingly, most of you did it on yourown doorstep. If, however, you have yet toexperience Oxford summer at its best, thebeach at Oxford Castle Quarter is here until25th September. With beach volleyball, OxfordBeach Babies, table tennis and more, there’s noreason to face that arduous journey to thenearest coast; we have everything you need,and more, right here.

Making the most of those summer nights, OxfordCastle Quarter will be home to the wonderfulCreation Theatre with Shakespeare’s Henry V until14th September. Against the stunning andatmospheric backdrop of Oxford Castle Quarter,Creation’s fast-paced, accessible, innovative style

and a cast of just three actors will make this HenryV, as you’ve never seen it before.

Talking of seeing things as you’ve never seen thembefore, do not miss Oxford Open Doors at OxfordCastle Quarter. On the 14th and 15th SeptemberOxford Castle Quarter invites you to reacquaintyourself with the 1,000-year old site. Discoverhidden stories; see the untouched prison cells intheir original state and compare them with theconverted cells at Malmaison; go underground tosee the Crypt, the Punishment Cells and the WellChamber inside the Mound. With children andfamily activities, and the chance to dig for treasure,there really is plenty to do and see. As the mostimportant piece of Oxford’s history outside of theUniversity, Open Doors at Oxford Castle Quarter issimply not to be missed.

This September will also see Open Air Cinemareturn to Oxford Castle Quarter. Settings for a filmdon’t come much more perfect than this. The bigscreen is in and so are the bean bags as we comedown off the rooftop terrace and take over the oldexercise yard at Oxford’s former prison for a veryspecial weekend of screenings with MalmaisonOxford. Pass the high walls, walk through theimposing doors, take in the A-Wing and find yourplace outside in the shadow of the Prison and StGeorge’s Tower in the heart of Oxford CastleQuarter. Tim Robins and Morgan Freeman are theinmates doing hard time in the film that has toppedIMDB top 250 for as many years as we canremember; The Shawshank Redemption. With aBBQ, beer, wine, popcorn and snacks available onthe day, get #lockedupforMalLife and come to theshowing on the 20th and 21st September. Bookyour place now www.cultscreens.co.uk


“in the beautiful and historic groundsof Oxford CastleQuarter, there

really is something foreveryone”

Ghost Fest at Oxford Castle Unlocked is also back!This October and November will be filled with vigils,experiments and séances, spooky tours of thecastle and family fun events. By night the 1,000year old castle will become Oxford’s only scareattraction, and with the addition of Terror Tuesdayand Murder Mystery Evenings, this year is set to bescarier than ever. Are you brave enough to join us?Events include Spooky Tours, Terror Tuesdays andMurder Mystery Evenings, overnight ghost huntsand Trick or Treating nights. After Dark Dinnerpackages are also available at restaurants which arealso located within Oxford Castle Quarter to trulyfinish the night off in style. See our events page fora full listing. Join us if you dare! www.oxfordcastleunlocked.co.uk/about/ghostfest

To finish off 2013 with true spirit, Oxford CastleQuarter is welcoming a new Christmas Market. With

the astonishing architecture and history of OxfordCastle Quarter the addition of a traditional market,with all the familiar sights and smells that it brings,will ensure this is certainly not just an averagemarket. Celebrating the best traditions typical of anEnglish Christmas there will be an opportunity tosample local food and drinks, purchase crafts andgifts, and browse through exclusive productsdisplayed in festive wooden chalets that will fill theQuarter. The whole event will appeal to families,groups of friends, and to businesses who wouldlike to take part in the event. With streetentertainment, Santa stopping by to meet thechildren, midweek Christmas cookerydemonstrations, afternoon tea with a range ofcelebrities, and a Big Business Breakfast, all set atthe heart of Oxford, in the beautiful and historicgrounds of Oxford Castle Quarter, there really issomething for everyone. With the emotive smells

of Christmas and the sophistication of the locationyou can be sure that there will be no better way tospend your day and, of course, your evening.

Combine this with the opportunity to sampleastonishing food or a festive cocktail at one of themany restaurants in the Oxford Castle Quarter tostart this Christmas with yet more Oxford CastleQuarter fun!

For more information please visit us at:www.oxfordcastlequarter.com

Tailoring our service to your needs

Contact College and County

01865 7227229-10 St Clements, Oxford OX4 1AE T. + 44 (0) 1865 722722 E. [email protected] www.collegeandcounty.biz

the social

One of the most common questions we areasked at Glooo is how do you keep up withwhat's going on in the digital world? Its simplewe use one the Internets simplest but mosteffective tools:

Google Alerts

The Wikipedia description is very clinical:

"Google Alerts is a content change detection andnotification service, offered by the search enginecompany Google, that automatically notifies userswhen new content from news, web, blogs, videoand/or discussion groups matches a set of searchterms selected by the user and stored by theGoogle Alerts service". Copyright Wikipedia 2013

So for this article in ‘the social’ we want to talk aboutthe real business side of how using Google Alertscan benefit your data/ information collectionprocess.

Once you log onto Google Alerts users arepresented with a simple 5 step check box for youto set up:

http://www.google.co.uk/alerts

1st Box: 'Search query': which is where you enterthe interest/keyword/search term query, the moredescriptive you are the better the results. NB Byencasing the query in "xxx" will also help in definingresults.

2nd box: 'Result type': allows you to define what

format of results you require : News items, Blogsposts, Videos on You Tube / Vimeo, and discussionsfrom forums. The most commonly used being'news' articles.

3rd box: 'How often': is the frequency of thenotifications ranging from 'real time', 'once a day',or' once a week'. So dependant on the urgency forcollating information you can manage how it isdelivered. NB if you want' real time' prepare for yourmail box to be full if you’re picking generic topics!

4th box: 'How many': which has two options 'allresults' or 'the best results'. You can review this onan ongoing basis, as again, if you set the alert to'all results 'and' real time' your mail box will get fullquickly.

5th box: 'Deliver to': allows you to choose fromyour portfolio of email accounts as to which accountyou want the information posted.

By defining the above carefully you can ensurewithin a time period and to an account of yourchoice that you receive relevant information on yourindustry, competitors, policy makers, clients, orstrategic partners.

There is also a 'manage your alerts' section whichlists your portfolio of alerts and allows you to editand/or delete the alerts as required.

So how to use Alerts

In the first instance we would recommend you addall of your clients, then when any news items are

posted on the web they will form part of yournotifications. We find that this is a very powerful'relationship building' tool in that its a great excuseto touch base with a client.

Secondly add competitors so you can keep up todate on their activities, being able to react tocompetitors ensures you're always in the businessrace!

Thirdly, if your business is located in a specific areaor you want to target a specific location you can setup an alert for an area under a keyword /phrasewhich can open sales opportunities.

Finally put your own business as an alert and ifsomeone posts anything relating to your businessthen again you will be notified.

This free service would be suited for all B4 directorybusinesses:

• Advisers• Business Services• Charities• Conference, Events & Venues• Finance• Health and Leisure• HR• IT & Telecommunications• Manufacturing• Science & Technology• Marketing & Design• Property & Building• Retail

To discuss how you can profile your digital world contact Glooo email Robin or Chris @glooo.co.uk or call 01865 595707. www.glooo.co.uk

In association with

What's going on in your digital world? Not everything, just the stuff you're interested in for the business... don't know? Well you will now!


We usually all go out to eat more often in thetwo weeks before Christmas than we do inthe rest of the year put together. The publunch with the department, the staff party,drinks with the directors, dinner at arestaurant with your best client and lunchwith the suppliers. Often, these festive mealsdisappoint. Your party is crammed in an overbusy restaurant, the service is poor and foodis below the quality that you are expecting asa result of your last visit there for lunch fortwo which was far more impressive. Then totop it all, an extra service charge is added asit is a ‘party’ before they bustle you out to re-lay the table for the next group. Soundfamiliar?

Oxford Fine Dining can offer businesses the chanceto do something a bit special and a bit different thatyour guests will remember. From Christmas partieson your own premises to dinner in an Oxforduniversity venue, Oxford Fine Dining provides theChristmas event with the ‘wow factor’.

As approved caterers at a number of Oxford’shistoric venues, OFD is able to cater in settings thatare often quite magical during the festive period.This year, businesses can treat their guests to a veryspecial Christmas luncheon being held in one ofOxford’s prestigious venues that is not usually opento the public, Rhodes House. This beautiful venueis a hidden delight situated in the heart of Oxfordand steeped in history as the gathering place forRhodes Scholars and distinguished guests. RhodesHouse has a huge Christmas tree in the Milner Hallthroughout December, making the perfect settingfor a special event, especially if there is a coveringof snow on the ground.

Guests will be welcomed by a carols andchampagne reception, before progressing to theimpressive Milner Hall with its stone walls, massiveceiling beams and imposing black marble fireplaceswhere a sumptuous 3 course fine dining Christmasmenu, accompanied by some fine wines, will beserved by OFD’s smart, personable staff. Duringlunch there will be live festive background musicand table magic entertainment. Says Sue, “Thisluncheon is a good opportunity for businesses to

entertain guests or treat staff to a ChristmasLuncheon that they will really remember thisChristmas. The opportunity to enjoy high qualityfood and wines in such prestigious surroundingswill make guests feel very special.”

As caterers, food is the most important element ofany event and OFD’s Christmas menusdemonstrate their skills to create high class foodusing the very best seasonal produce. Executivechef Martin Bridgeman leads his team of chefs toproduce a festive food that looks as good as ittastes. “Catering for a large number means thatevery plate has to delight not just the palette butalso the eye of the guest. We take such pride inmaking sure that our food tastes amazing but thatit is also presented beautifully.”

2013 Christmas starters include ‘Roasted butternutsquash soup, sage scented truffle oil and parmesancroutons’ and ‘Scottish salmon and horseradishpâté with lemon dressed leaves and granary toast’as well as ‘Duo of smoked duck and chicken breast,Oxford sauce and a pear and hazelnut salad’ and‘Avocado, sun-blushed tomato and rocket leaf saladwith butterbean puree’ all made from fresh locallysourced ingredients and made in the OFD kitchens. In addition to the usual ‘Festive roast turkey withsage and onion stuffing, ‘pigs in blankets’ and richpan gravy’, the OFD Christmas party menu incudes‘Roast sirloin of British beef with horseradish androot vegetable gravy’ and ‘Baked sea bass fillet withleek, mustard and Chardonnay sauce’ or forvegetarians a delicious ‘Parsnip, chestnut andcranberry loaf with port and thyme jus’, all servedwith goose fat roasted potatoes and a panache ofwinter root vegetables. Sweet toothed readersmight prefer to ponder the delights of the desserts,which feature the ‘Classic Christmas pudding withcreamy brandy sauce’ or who could resist ‘Darkchocolate tart, orange sauce and white chocolateice cream’ or ‘Vanilla poached pear, mini almondcake and vanilla syrup’. Martin adds, “We finish offour Christmas menus with coffee and a melt in themouth homemade mini mince pie.”

A more cost effective Christmas party could bedrinks and canapés at a firms own premises.Oxford Fine Dining can create festive canapés to

accompany drinks, whether they be wine or festivecocktails. Says Sue, “We are used to arriving andsetting up for events of any size in any location,serving the food and drinks, and clearing up so thatthe event organiser can just enjoy the evening. Weoften cater in offices and warehouses that havebeen made to look rather different than theyusually do with Christmas decorations, tables andlighting.”

We often take living in Oxford for granted and yetits old buildings make a very special place forChristmas parties for firms with a nationwide teamof staff. OFD has organised Christmas staff partiesfor one Abingdon based firm who have sales stafflocated across the UK. “It was the first time thatmany of them had been in an Oxford universitybuilding, and the ‘Harry Potter-esque’ setting wasso different from the usual hotel venue that theyhave repeated the event at a number of differentvenues since.”

So what about the crackers? Fine, go for crackers ifyou think your guests will really wear the papercrowns and like the plastic gifts, but Oxford FineDining would prefer it if your guests rememberedthe quality of the food and service – and the goodcompany of course!

www.oxfordfinedining.co.uk

Traditionally, Christmas is a time for parties, which for businesses means lots of food and drink, entertainment andmerriment with clients, customers and staff. But when the decorations are taken down and the festivities are over,how many of the meals do you still remember for the quality of the food and the standard of service? Or do youremember them just for the cheap crackers? Sue Randall of Oxford Fine Dining tells B4 why not all Christmas partiesneed to be so easily forgotten.

NOT A CRACKERIN SIGHT


B4 SERVICES

Oxford Fine Dining Christmas Luncheon isbeing held at Rhodes House on Tuesday 12thDecember. Tables of 10 cost £95 +VAT per

person inclusive of a 3 course meal,champagne reception, half a bottle of wine,

coffee and mince pies.

FESTIVE DINING


To reserve a table, please email:[email protected]

or for more information please visit:www.oxfordfinedining.co.uk/christmas-luncheon-2013.php

STARTERSRoasted butternut squash soup, sage scented

truffle oil and parmesan croutons (V)Scottish salmon and horseradish pâté withlemon dressed leaves and granary toast

Duo of smoked duck and chicken breast, Oxfordsauce and a pear and hazelnut salad

Avocado, sun-blushed tomato and rocket leafsalad with butterbean puree (V)

MAIN COURSESFestive roast turkey with sage and onion stuffing,

‘pigs in blankets’ and rich pan gravyRoast sirloin of British beef with horseradish and

root vegetable gravyBaked sea bass fillet with leek, mustard and

Chardonnay sauceParsnip, chestnut and cranberry loaf with port

and thyme jus (V)All served with goose fat roasted potatoes and a

panache of winter root vegetables

DESSERTSClassic Christmas pudding with creamy brandy

sauceDark chocolate tart, orange sauce and white

chocolate ice creamVanilla poached pear, mini almond cake and

vanilla syrupSelection of Oxfordshire cheese with grapes,

celery and crackersCoffee and mince pies

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I once heard Oxford-based Professor Russell Smith define a true entrepreneur as someone who has been involvedin at least three businesses. At the tender age of 23, Charlie Bartlett has already achieved that, with Café Aloha beingthe most recent. Interview by Tracey Jefferies.

On the day of the interview I arrived slightlyahead of time, which gave me ampleopportunity to unobtrusively survey the caféand if I’m completely honest, I was surprised,in a more ways than one and all of them good.Only open since January 2013, the café was justbuzzing, the demographic of the clienteleeclectic and to suggest that the menu boardwas tempting is a bit like stating girls quite likechocolate. I just knew I was in for a treat. Firstimpressions count and when you’re met with ahuge smile from the serving staff, you feel atonce relaxed and your custom valued. Havinggrilled Charlie on his background I decided thatthis was his golden ticket to success. Hegenuinely likes people and gets hugesatisfaction out of developing his staff. He jokedthat he probably puts their needs before hisown, but I have a feeling this is almost certainlythe case.

Given his background, it was almost inevitable thatCharlie would join the ranks of the self-employed,although a stint in South Africa at the age of 18learning how to surf and qualify as a lifeguardmight not have been the first indicator. What it didhighlight was his natural ability to teach andencourage:

“The trip was an organised project, part of whichwas being able to demonstrate the skills learned.For this, we invited school children from the localtownships to take part. Some had never even beento a beach before. Seeing their huge smiles wasjust awesome and something I’ll alwaysremember”, said Charlie.

Back in the UK, Charlie returned to work at PremierLettings, a letting and management companystarted by his mother Jan Bartlett in 1993.Unsurprisingly, some may say, Charlie and Jan havea very successful working relationship and Charliewas made a Partner in Premier Lettings, somethinghe’d always aspired to. Not content to stand still, asoftware development company followed and thenCafé Aloha (both jointly owned with Jan).

“Jan had always wanted to own a sandwich bar andI’d always fancied owning a bar. At the time, thesewere very much on the ‘would like to’ list ofpriorities in terms of business development, itwasn’t something either of us was activelypursuing. But things have a way of appearing outof the blue and an expected conversation led to

another and here we are! Our vision for Café Alohais to provide something different for the local area,somewhere unique with a friendly vibe, servinggreat food for breakfast, lunch and dinner andsomewhere that appeals to a wide target market”,explained Charlie.

You might think, seeking to appeal to such adiverse market, a vision fraught with potentialproblems, but you’d be wrong. I hear about aregular customer who arrives every morning likeclockwork at 10am for her latte and I saw formyself the mix of local customers treatingthemselves sitting alongside office workers keenfor a change of environment. I also witnessed astream of people collecting takeaway lunches forlocal offices and businesses. In the evening, aslightly more formal dining ambience is createdwith linen tablecloths, candlelight and the offer ofcocktails.

Charlie has strong ideas about food, but openlyadmits he’s no cook so the Chef takes the creditfor the menu, which I’d suggest is largely a mix ofItalian and Spanish favourites. Although there is achoice especially for ‘Younger Guests’ (as they arereferred to), any of the dishes on the menu can bemade in smaller quantities for children. This is sucha sensible idea, but one which most restaurantsdon’t adopt. Although there are so many reasonsto visit, this one initiative is entirely worthy ofstandalone comment and applause.

You would think running three businesses wouldbe enough to keep anyone busy, but Charlie wasalso responsible for the recent Westway MusicFestival, a one-day event that raised awareness andsupport for the continuation of the WestwayCentre, currently under the threat ofredevelopment in 2016. Music also plays a keyrole at Café Aloha, with regular Saturday night livemusic events and Open Mic sessions held on thelast Tuesday of every month.

Already a success in a relatively short space of time,Charlie has now set his sights on ensuring a fullhouse at Café Aloha every night of the week. Notonly do I have absolute belief that he will achievethis, but in his own words, that will be truly“awesome’ for all involved.

www.cafealoha.co.uk

CAFÉ BY DAY, RESTAURANT BYNIGHT, THAT’S AWESOME!


B4 R&RPhotography: Rob Scotcher

To find out more about B4 please visit WWW.B4-BUSINESS.COMt: 01865 742211 e: [email protected] a: The Firs, Headington Hill, Oxford, OX3 0BT

events

B4 XMAS LUNCHMODERN ART OXFORD

Monday 16th December 201312.00pm - 4.30pm

30 Pembroke Street, Oxford, Oxfordshire, OX1 1BP, United Kingdom.

Dress code: Smart business casual

Any enquiries should be directed to Tina Rosser01865 742211 or [email protected]

‘Enjoy a festive lunch with jazz, great food and

excellent company’

ABOUT OUR HOSTS

We are delighted to announce the B4 Xmas Lunch will be held at Modern ArtOxford.

Founded in 1965, Modern Art Oxford is a visual art gallery devoted to presentingexhibitions of modern and contemporary art. The gallery has a national andinternational reputation for the quality of its exhibitions and accompanyingcommunity and education programme. Funded primarily by Arts Council England,all of the exhibitions and many of the events, activities and workshops are freefor visitors.

Housed in the old City Brewery, Modern Art Oxford comprises of six architecturallystriking exhibition spaces that range from intimate to spacious, all of which areavailable to hire. With capacities from 40 to 250, Modern Art Oxford can caterfor seminars to formal dinners, wedding receptions to product launches and gigs.

Come and enjoy a festive lunch, good company, jazz and wine in this fantasticvenue with members and their guests from the B4 network.

www.modernartoxford.org.ukwww.oxfordfinedining.co.uk

Please register for the event here:https://www.regonline.com/B4XmasEventMAO

REGISTRATION

There are 16 bedrooms and five suites availableat The Feathers, which have undergone a majorrefurbishment. Each room has been given itsown unique style by specialist interiordesigners, Trevillion, who have added boutiquetwists such as luxurious fabrics, ornate lighting,free-standing stone basins and even a decanterfull of jelly beans!

The quirky bedrooms perfectly match the rest ofthe hotel, with its higgledy-piggledy hallways andfive different staircases that add a delightfullywhimsical feel. Contemporary wallpapers adorn thewalls, alongside tastefully chosen art works, suchas an eye-catching dressmaker mannequin. Thebespoke carpet in the dining room bearing afeather motif is also testament to the hotel’s cooloutlook.

Eating and drinking is at the heart of The Feathersexperience. The hotel introduced the first dedicated‘Gin Bar’ in the UK and has the largest collection ofgins in the world. It currently has 181 types of ginfrom around the world and holds the GuinnessWorld Record.

The hotel has recently expanded its casual diningoffering, which is in keeping with the hotel’s cooland contemporary vibe. The new lunch and dinnermenu is available in the hotel’s stylish restaurantand modern lounge bar.

Delicious highlights include: Scorched salmon,lemon zest puree, Hendrick’s gin jelly (£7.95);Rump of Cotswold lamb, summer cabbage &pancetta, cauliflower cheese (£20); and Strawberry& lavender “Eton mess” (£8). Lunch is served fromNoon until 2.30pm and dinner from 7pm until9.30pm.

For the first time The Feathers kitchen is now openall day, serving dishes from the new ‘Classic LightBites’ menu from Noon until 9pm. Favouritesinclude: Minced rib eye burger, brioche bap, redonion compote, Montgomery cheddar (£10);Bacon, lettuce and tomato sandwich (£6.95); anda selection of sharing platters priced at £17.50each. The Feathers Hotel also offers a dailyAfternoon Tea priced at £16.50 per person.

The Feathers is the perfect location for events. Thehotel can be exclusively hired for weddingreceptions for £4,000 during the week or £7,000at the weekend. The ceremony can take place inthe nearby church or town hall, which is a coupleof minutes walk from the hotel.

The Feathers is also equipped for businessmeetings. The private master bedroom has aconference table suitable for up to six, alternativelyone end of the restaurant can host up to 20 peopleboardroom style. The daily delegate rate starts from£65 per person.

The Feathers Hotel has a lively history. At the turnof the century, the reception area became aDrapers shop, and was subsequently convertedinto a Butcher’s shop in the early 1950s. In theearly 1960s the property was fully joined andturned into a hotel. Today, remnants of thebuilding’s former life still remain visible, adding tothe hotel’s character.

www.feathers.co.uk

The Feathers Hotel, a member of Pride of Britain Hotels, is an inviting country retreat that combines historic charmwith a fun personality. Located in the historic market town of Woodstock, which was the birth place of WinstonChurchill, the hotel is surrounded by cultural attractions. Just a two minute stroll through the beautiful village shopsand guests will arrive at the magnificent Blenheim Palace.

THE FEATHERS


B4 R&R

“Eating and drinking is at the heart of The Feathers experience”

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Any organisation that expects any employee todrive on business now has a number of criticallegal obligations to fulfil. Do you knoweverything needed about the followinglegislation?

• The Health & Safety at Work Act 1974

• Management of Health & Safety at WorkRegulations 1999

• Corporate Manslaughter Bill & CorporateHomicide Act 2007

• The Health & Safety (Offences) Act 2008

Since 2001 Ultimate Car Control has been helpingorganisations who are worried about their legalexposure under all the latest government legislationwith regard to their employees who drive onbusiness. Ultimate Car Control is an advanceddriver training company and as an active B4member UCC is delighted to offer a complimentaryrisk assessment audit for companies to identify anyissues that need to be addressed. They can thensupport you through their wide range of drivertraining/compliance services including: DriverTraining (both on-road and/or at private traininglocations), Parking modules, EcoDrive sessions,Driver Education seminars and classroom sessions,

and many more. They can also create a bespokeprogramme/event around your requirements, sowherever you need help they can offer a solution.

One sure route to compliance in the fleet sector isvia Ultimate Car Control’s EPD (Excellence inProfessional Driving) Programme. EPD is the mostcomplete, legally compliant fleet driver trainingprogramme for businesses under UK Health &Safety Duty of Care legislation. Courses are set upso that drivers can experience different drivingscenarios and then learn and practice theappropriate response to each, such as emergencybraking or accident avoidance techniques. Thenthey practice again and again until the correctreaction becomes second nature. Thesetechniques have been proven to significantlyreduce incident rates and associated fleetmanagement and insurance costs.

There is also the DEK (Driver Encoded Knowledge)Programme, which evolved initially out of EPD tocover directors and senior management utilisinghigher performance vehicles. Attendees get a greatintroduction to vehicle dynamics in highperformance cars, gain an in-depth understandingof why the car behaves as it does in extremesituations, and practice the art of high speed carcontrol and learn how the different types ofundersteer and oversteer are induced and controlled.

Ultimate Car Control founder, and former BritishTouring Car Champion, Robb Gravett and his teamhave courses for people from all walks of life, of allages and genders and are passionate aboutimproving road safety and reducing incident rates.One new programme not directly aimed atbusinesses is DX (Drive Xtra). DX is focusedpredominantly at young drivers, and those withlimited driving experience, and recreates everydaydriving scenarios that these drivers will face andthen provides them with the knowledge to improvetheir reactions and driving ability and stay safe onthe road. It’s proving a great hit with both youngdrivers and their parents!

So whether you’re a high mileage business fleetdriver, an owner of a high performance or prestigevehicle, or a young or inexperienced postqualification driver, Ultimate Car Control have acourse for you. And as they are currently offeringspecial exclusive discounted rates for all B4members now’s a great time to see how they canhelp you!

Ultimate Car Control can be contacted on0845 459 1002, or by [email protected] or visitingtheir website at www.ultimatecarcontrol.com

As the blame culture continues to gain traction in today’s ever more litigious society, victims of road incidents involvingbusiness drivers are increasingly looking to employers for proof of the vehicle’s suitability and roadworthiness, and ofthe level of driver training provided. Under UK legislation there is the possibility of unlimited fines and up to two yearsin prison if the employer is deemed negligent in their duties. The question is; could this employer be you?

WILL YOUR COMPANY CAR DRIVERSEND YOU UP IN PRISON?


B4 ADVICE

“150 cars are crashedevery single day whilst

being driven for business use”

104 www.b4-business.com

www.b4-business.com

B4 NEWS

B4 Ambassadors, Members and their guests recently enjoyed fourvery different events across the Thames Valley.

B4 EVENTSPHOTO DIARYFirst up was a new event format at the impressive West Wing, the new development builtalongside The Said Business School in Oxford. This saw 4 B4 members present for fifteenminutes each in the smart new Harvard Lecture Theatre, followed by a lively Q&A. Either sideof the event, guests enjoyed superb hospitality in The Said Club Room.

Next up was Bucks New University and the opportunity for B4 Members to get to know more aboutthis fascinating establishment based in the heart of High Wycombe. The following week we were atthe magnificent Oakley Court Hotel in Windsor for a wonderful evening of fine food and excellentcompany hosted by our Platinum Ambassadors.

Finally, The University of Oxford Examination Schools hosted our 2nd B4 Oxfordshire event of theyear at a recently refurbished venue where guests were treated to a speech from the grandson ofthe building’s original architect Sir Nicholas Jackson.

All great stuff, and if you weren’t there, why don’t you make sure you book in for our remaining B4events of 2013 – see www.b4-business.com and click on B4 Events.Ph

otography: Andrew Gleed ww

w.andrewgleedphotography.co.uk and Rob Scotcher B4

105

106

focus on what you have to do right now to move itforward and keep taking those small steps until youreach your destination.

16 hills and 10 hours later the hotel I saw at theend of a very hard day was definitely not ahallucination.

Gears make the ride easierIf you change down in to an easier gear before youhit a big hill you need to climb, you can keep thecadence and can conserve your energy.

When I stupidly missed my gear changes I foundmyself trying to climb a hill in a gear that was muchtoo high to turn my peddles and that mistake costme a lot of lost valuable energy. I learnt the hardway.

How often, I wonder, in business do we stay in thewrong gear to complete a task and end up workingmuch harder than we have to.

It’s only 52 miles to goDuring this tough challenge I noticed how muchimpact words had on levels of motivation andhope..

Words like it’s only 30 miles to the next stop or justwe are over half way now always gave a little lift,where as ‘If you don’t hurry up were are nevergoing to make it back to the hotel by night fall’ wasnot as motivating.

We can take words for granted and not payattention to what we say to ourselves and to others.On this ride the words we used and heard made ahuge impact on our ability to dig deep to make ourvision reality.

It is just the same when you deal with a businesschallenge words have power.

Pain is just weakness leaving your bodyI was in a lot of pain on this cycle ride and differentparts of my body hurt at different times. I wentthrough lower back ache, neck ache, hip ache andthe obvious pain in the bum that you get fromsitting on it for a very long time!

Pain in business could be seen in the same way. Itlets you know that there is weakness and you needto do something to enable it to leave your business.A great thought.

The strange thing was that for all the pain I sufferedbefore and during the trip when I reached the finaldestination it all disappeared as if it had never beenthere at all.

Vision without execution is hallucinationI first thought of doing this bike challenge when Iheard about it after I had just completed a Vietnamto Cambodia cycle challenge for the British HeartFoundation. The vision of cycling 428 miles at thatpoint felt like a hallucination, something I talkedabout doing but wasn’t really going to do.

The execution of it was to come …

Small steps cover a BIG distanceIt can be over whelming when confronted with avery big seemingly impossible goal or task. 428miles all in one go seemed massive and verydaunting. However breaking it down into the dailymileage targets, and just focusing on what neededto be done each day, made it seem possible.

Some of the daily distances were also long andchallenging so breaking them down into three orfour 30 mile sections with the reward of a breakmade it even easier to focus on achieving. Justthinking about what you had to focus on bit by bitmakes achieving any BIG goal easier.

So this was what I did day by day …

A Big hill climb is a lot of little peddlesA huge steep hill looming in front of you with theprospect of at least 16 of the same to climb isenough to make you feel tired just thinking aboutit, let alone actually doing it.

Hill climbs are made a lot easier by weaving yourwheel back and forth, just looking a few metres infront of you, or zig zagging slowly from side to side.

When you are faced with a big business challengewhich seems like a very steep hill to climb, just

Whist I was peddling hard and really feeling the BIG challenge I was up against I thought about how this could be agreat metaphor for life in business and could offer some inspiration. I wanted to share my thoughts as they came tome during the ride. Article by Jackie Jarvis.

BUSINESS INSIGHTS INSPIREDBY THE B4 428 MILE CYCLECHALLENGE

www.b4-business.com

Photography: Zoe Kemp

107

So the pain was just weakness leaving my bodyand it left me feeling better than I had in a longtime.

Challenge yourself more and you will reachfor moreWhen I was thinking of doing this cycle challenge Ididn’t quite realise how hard the reality of doing itwould be. Having done it and reflecting back onwhat I achieved I realised that I was actually capableof more than I thought I was.

Pushing yourself and expanding your comfort zonecan be a good thing. Once you have stretched yourown personal boundaries they will never go backto how they were before.

It is easier togetherDuring the trip I saw some great examples of trueteam work and there was nothing better than whathappens when you face some harsh head windand the team pulls together to deal with it.

Drafting is a cycle term for cycling very close behindanother cyclist and getting the benefit of thempulling you with the energy of their draft and theirprotection from the headwind. We all took it inturns to bear the brunt of the head winds and toenjoy the pull of the draft.

Drafting could be a great business team practicewith stronger players letting others use their draftto ensure that all make it

A guiding hand from an expert can add turbopowerThere were times when one or other of our twocycle guides on the trip offered me a hand. The

help was literally a hand placed against my back upa hard hill or along a road when I needed to catchup with the group to save time. It was a light touchthat at certain points really added some energy andspeed to my weaker peddling.

So in business there may be times when you areoffered a guiding hand and even if you could makeit on your own, your journey can be made easier,quicker and possibly better for your team.

Ask for what you need and it will comeI am a believer in the power of universal energyand did ask for help when I felt like I was runninglow. I am convinced that I felt the power of thewind behind me and the trees literally dragging mealong at certain points. It was a good feeling andone I will remember.

So ask for what you really want in your business andput it out there. You just may get it. I definitely didget the help I needed for which I am truly grateful

On the road to success there are few thatmake it the last mileThe last bit of any big challenge can sometimes bethe hardest but if you are prepared to push throughyou will be one of the few that make it to the otherside. We did. Our hallucination had become realityand it was time to celebrate the achievement.

www.b4-business.com

ABOUT JACKIEB4 ADVICE

Jackie is an experienced business mentor, salesexpert & provider of the grant funded GrowthAccelerator coaching & training

‘If you are an ambitious business owner andwant to get your sales, marketing and yourteam working well for you, I would be happyto be your guiding hand. Let’s have anexploratory conversation over coffee’

If you enjoyed reading this article and wouldlike to make a donation to Jackie’s charityMacmillan cancer support please visit her Justgiving page: www.justgiving.com/JackieJarvis-B4BikeRide

e: [email protected]: 01491 833222 / 07801 293022.w: www.marketingco.co.uk

Contributed by Jackie Jarvis author of ’85Inspiring ways to market your small business’.You can order a signed copy of Jackie’s bookby email. £12.99 plus postage all proceeds goto Macmillan Cancer Support

Originally from Cheshire, Mark left the UK in1978 to join HSBC in Dubai and remained infinancial services until 1998 having somehowwangled his way to Bangkok in 1987, workingas a stockbroker selling Thailand to financialinstitutions around the world. It was there thatMark’s catering and hospitality career first sawthe light of day.

“I got involved with the first Irish Pub in Thailand,which was a disaster at first. It was a concept I knewcould work because there was a strong ex-patcommunity but we had too many shareholders andnot enough direction. So I started buying the othershareholders out and I was eventually offered nonexecutive control because nobody else wanted totake the lead…and it took off. We then builtanother in Pattaya, approximately one hundredmiles from Bangkok where there were lots of expatfamilies, and a big business centre. They hadnowhere to go but “girlie bars” and that was a greatsuccess.

“I also opened up the Ministry of Sound’s firstoverseas venture in Bangkok in 2002 / 2003 andI still have a Tex Mex restaurant in Bangkok whichperforms well.”

Despite his clear affinity for what sounds like awonderful way of life in Asia (Mark keeps a housein Bangkok), as a single parent with two Bangkokborn daughters, he felt compelled to return to theUK in 2007 to broaden their horizons. “I quicklyrealised that I couldn’t take the natural path backinto the City because I wouldn’t have seen muchof them so I decided to play to my second set ofskills in the restaurant trade. Many of my friendswere already in the sector and I decided it was theright time for me to get more involved. So I startedlooking for a place to set up and came across anadvertisement that The Bear was for sale.

“I came and had a look and I talked to a few friendsabout it. I knew very little about Oxford so did mydue diligence by asking those who knew Oxfordwhat the place was like. They told me it had beenTHE all singing all dancing pub of Oxford in the late80’s and 90’s but due to many changes inmanagement, its reputation had declined. I like achallenge and thought I could turn it around with agood catchment area and an improved product. Iturned out to be very wrong – it took a huge

amount of time (and cash) before we made theslightest impact!

“Simply put, the reputation was so bad the localpopulus weren’t prepared to give me the benefitof the doubt, despite refurbishing the restaurantand the pub and a commitment to freshly cookedfood as opposed to the ‘boil in the bag’ offeringsthat were on display when I arrived. It wasn’t untilJuly 2011 that we started to see things turn around,just before we opened the first four rooms inNovember 2011. The rooms added anotherdimension and were very profitable – very quicklyat 80% to 90% capacity within four or fivemonths. I then thought I should convert my ownaccommodation into rooms and another 5stunning rooms were on stream by the end of2012.”

Since Mark arrived turnover has increased 270% -the core food and beverage element is up 150%and the rest is down to accommodation.

“The old institutional stock broking experience wasuseful for me as I had been fortunate enough tostay in some of the finest hotels and eat in the bestrestaurants in places like London, New York, HongKong, Paris and Singapore. You learn a lot aboutstyle, service and quality in places like that. Foodhad always really interested me as from a youngage I was always fascinated by my Mum’s cookingand cake making.

“I had a very clear idea of the kind of offering thereshould be at the Bear. But without any formaltraining I was taking a risk. But I sought out goodF&B trained people – Paul Summers came in asmy right hand man and now runs our day to dayoperations. Paul was originally looking to buy hisown place when we met but banks had shut theirdoors due to the credit crunch. Paul has given methe professional and local UK knowledge ontowhich I could graft my experience and plans for thefuture. Paul takes care of the day to day and I takecare of the finance and strategy for the future.”

And it’s working. Since Mark opened up the fivemore rooms he has hit 99% occupancy and is sofar on course for 100% occupancy in September.But this shouldn’t come as a surprise to Mark, ashe explains.

“I was always told that the Oxford market wasstrong and that there was a shortage of rooms. Thisgave me the confidence that good quality roomsfour miles out of the city centre would work. In fact,being just four miles out of the city centre has itsadvantages. A country setting, easy car parking andso on. The people I spoke to were completely andutterly correct – this has given me the confidenceto plan ahead in one or two ways.

“I would like Identify other sites within 5 or 6 milesof city centre which can benefit from Oxford’scritical mass – places I could put a first classrestaurant and boutique hotel into. I don’t wantmore than 15 to 20 rooms per site because overthat it ceases to be a ‘boutique’ family hotel. Youlose that intimate customer interaction therebyharming the customer experience and therefore,ultimately, quality.

“I am also not ruling out the possibility of securingplanning permission at the Bear to build another 8rooms in the back, we have the room – I am in theprocess of putting an application together now.”

Mark knows that whatever he does to extend thebedrooms at The Bear will have to respect theproperty’s Grade II* listed status as he has done togreat effect with the alterations he has made todate. “I wouldn’t want to do anything toooutrageous as preserving the building’s ancientcharacter has been a big part of the success.”

The corporate market is key for The Bear during theweek. Mark has three key products. “For smallcorporate seminars we have an ‘olde worlde’ roomcomplete with log fires which will take 12 to 15people in front of a huge TV screen that hooks upfor Powerpoint presentations and is very private.The restaurant can deal with 10 to 12 private dinersor larger banquets for 60 to 70 at one sitting. Andfinally there are the rooms which are proving verypopular with the corporates during the week.”

As you can see, The Bear and Ragged Staff is verymuch open for business. Mark or Paul will behappy to show you around if you drop in, or justcall them at 862329 to find out more.

www.bearandraggedstaff.com

Mark Greenwood, the charismatic and engaging landlord of The Bear and Ragged Staff in Cumnor shared lunch withB4’s Richard Rosser and explained how this wonderful establishment has regained its mantle as one of Oxfordshire’sfinest restaurants , with a thriving new face in the form of first class accommodation.

THE NOT SORAGGED BEAR



AMBASSADORSCLUB OFFERThe Bear and Ragged Staff offer:15% off food

“I was always toldthat the Oxford

market was strongand that there was ashortage of rooms.This gave me theconfidence that

good quality roomsfour miles out ofthe city centrewould work”

Photography: Rob Scotcher

B4 R&R

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For me, creating, building and establishing a successful Brand andBusiness Identity really is all about the art of managing perceptionsin order to ensure that how you and your business are seen is exactlyhow you wish to be seen and how you need to be seen in order tosucceed. Your Business and Brand Identity are absolutely vitalelements, the cornerstone of your chosen positioning and thecommunication of your proposition in order to differentiate withclarity what you have to offer from the offerings of your perceivedcompetitors. They are quite simply vital ingredients in creating theessential and all important element of individuality that will enableyour Business, Brand and offering to stand out from the crowd.

As such, your Identity needs to be distinctive, relevant , memorable and trueto yourself but it also needs to be desirable because your Brand and Businessneed to connect, communicate and engage effectively with your identifiedtarget market(s). Ideally, your Brand and Identity will also be compelling, helpingyou to stand out head and shoulders above the crowd for all the right reasonsand to be chosen ahead of your competition. To achieve this, you need to bethinking Brand – not bland.

An outside-in process that begins from the inside-outFundamental to the achievement of this, is a very good understanding in thefirst place of exactly what you need and want to be seen to stand for, whatyour values are and what your vision and mission are – ie what will ultimatelydefine you. This is why creating, building and establishing a successful Brandor Business is about very much more than quickly grabbing a name, getting aquick logo done and getting a website up and running as soon as possible –and yet how often do we see exactly that? Creating, building and developing asuccessful Brand and Business Identity should be a considered strategic matterthat should be afforded the required levels of input of time and effort and yourBrand and Identity should be crafted carefully to cut through the clutter withimmediate clarity. My fellow countryman, Robert Burns, most aptly commentedon the importance of seeing yourself and your Business from the outside-inwhen he penned the following lines in his poem “To a Louse’:

“O, wad some Power the giftie gie usTo see oursels as others see us!

It wad frae monie a blunder free us,An' foolish notion.”

Clearly, for existing Businesses and Brands, you first of all have to have a clearunderstanding of current perceptions in order to identify the job needing to bedone, the journey to be undertaken and the degree of perception shift needingto be achieved. This is important, because all too often there is a very seriousdisconnect between how Business Owners and Managers see their ownBusinesses or Brand and how that Business or Brand is in fact perceived bythose on the outside. It is amazing how a fresh perspective from someonemore distant from a Business or Brand can shed light on such perception gapsand identify what needs to be addressed ie which perceptions need to bemanaged.

Distilling the essence – and then freeing the spirit.When working with my Clients, I place great importance on drilling right in towhat they and their Business are really all about, what it is that makes themdifferent and can provide the essential bedrock for building meaningful andsustainable competitive advantage. My approach is, in Strangebrew terms, todistil the essence of a Business or Brand and then free the spirit that lies within.

One vital factor in this is to determine the personality and character of theBrand or Business to be projected because this has such a key role to play inthe differentiation and appeal and a Business or Brand. If you stop to thinkabout it, a Business or Brand without a personality or character is a Businessor Brand without soul. So, some good old fashioned soul-searching can go along way to determine the Branding and Identity of a business and how itshould connect, communicate and engage with its target audience. YourIdentity really must encapsulate the personality and character you wish toproject.

Importantly though Managing Perceptions, should not be seen as a one-offmatter that can be done and can then be forgotten. Rather, it is a constant andconstantly evolving process that must be done with a high degree ofconsistency over time and at each and every touchpoint - both internally withina Business and externally with the outside world – because Businesses andBrands are living things.

If you would like to know more about how Managing Perceptions could benefityour Business or Brand, call Phil Strachan of Strangebrew on 07770 753 975and find out about how to access London quality Branding, Identity and GraphicDesign – at Glasgow prices! www.thinkbrandnotbland.co.uk

It’s a very simple fact. People and Businesses judge you, yourBusiness, and your Brand by how they see you. For them, itreally is a matter of seeing is believing. They believe what theysee and that is why perceptions count. In this context,perception is, or at least quickly becomes, reality.

Phil Strachan of Business and Brand Alchemists, Strangebrew,talks to Richard Rosser about the importance of ManagingPerceptions and why he sees this as being what good Branding,Identity and Design is all about.

BRANDING& IDENTITYTHE ESSENTIAL ART OFMANAGING PERCEPTIONS


B4 MARKETING

As a teenager I continued to read. I readanything – from Wilbur Smith’s Africanadventures to Ellis Bell’s emotionally chargedtragi-romance Wuthering Heights. After readingFrances Hodgson Burnett’s Secret Garden Ivowed to marry a Yorkshire-man (like Dickon).I had no local bookshop but I found a boyfriendnear a wonderful second-hand bookshop in thenearby city. Sadly, although he was very nice, hewas Welsh. I did eventually find my Yorkshire-man and we now own our own house full ofbooks. Books have shaped my life. I got a parttime job in a bookshop 20 years ago and I feelvery blessed to be still working in a greatindustry with a strong heritage and an excitingfuture.

My two children are lucky. We have read aloud tothem daily for 9 years. They have hundreds ofbooks, get to go to Blackwell’s (a lot), have a schoollibrary and go to a public library weekly and haveaudio books on their CD players. They areprivileged to have met and been inspired byacclaimed children’s authors such as MichaelMorpurgo and Francesca Simon. They both readdaily. They have also read a dozen books on our e-reader but both far prefer physical books. They areunable to articulate why apart from the fact that thebattery doesn’t run out on a normal book!

Many children aren’t so lucky. As a mum and as aprofessional bookseller I need to do more aboutthis. On one level I donate books to charity shops,I buy books as presents. I do ‘party books’ insteadof ‘party bags’. As an employee of Blackwell’s I havea real opportunity and responsibility to get booksinto the hands of children. According to a 2010

National Literacy Trust survey, 3 in 10 children inthe UK do not own a single book of their own. Ifthis is really true or even close to the truth this is acall to arms for all of us who are in a position tohelp personally or professionally.

Blackwell’s have sponsored and supported anumber of literacy and Children’s charities inaddition to the National Literacy Trust. At Christmaswe ran a Giving Tree in conjunction with theChildren’s Society. Names of books alongsidechildren’s ages were put on tags on a Christmastree and shoppers bought a book for a child inneed. We helped over 500 disadvantaged childrenget a book for Christmas.

One of my favourite Oxford based charities isBookFeast (www.bookfeast.net). The wonderfulAngie Prysor-Jones heads up this charity which isdedicated to developing the habit of reading, ‘inorder to nourish minds and fire imaginations’.Bookfeast hosts book clubs in primary schools andruns a great book festival for primary schools everyyear with inspirational, renowned authors such asMichael Rosen, Jeremy Strong and Korky Paul.Blackwell’s are immensely proud to supportBookfeast and provide practical help by the loaningof one of our staff to lead one of their school bookgroups. This local charity changes lives and makesreading cool. Can you help them?

We also work closely with The Story Museum(www.storymuseum.org.uk) who exist to ‘celebratechildren's stories and to share enjoyable ways foryoung people to learn through stories as they grow.’They have splendid plans to be the UK’s newcentre of children's literature and storytelling. Phillip

Pullman recently described it as “A wonderful giftfrom Oxford, where so many stories have begun,to the whole world.” Blackwell’s has a permanentinstallation there either exhibiting or selling booksand we are supporting them in any way that wecan. Have a look at their website – there are manyways that you or your business can get involved.

Our very passionate Hannah Chinnery takes ourbooks out to schools across Oxford by arrangingauthor visits to classrooms and assemblies. Werecently received entries thick and fast for anonsense poetry competition open to childrenacross Oxfordshire, we put on two great family dayseach year with an abundance of free activities inthe bookshop to encourage families to discover thejoys of their local bookshop. We aim to break evenon these activities – it is our obligation to excite,inspire and spread the joy of reading to the nextgeneration. Of course we do hope that they willbecome future customers one day!

I asked my children what Blackwell’s should bedoing to help children get the reading bug. Mydaughter said that we should be reading storiesaloud in the shop as much as possible. And shehas offered to do some reading herself ’to the littleones.’ Good on her – she is only nine and alreadyvolunteering to do her bit.

What can you do? No, what can you do?http://bookshop.blackwell.co.uk

I was lucky. I had a mum that loved books, a friendly and very local library and no television until my early teenageyears. I didn’t feel lucky at the time of course but it did mean that my primary activity as a child (apart from my Cindydoll) was reading books. I immersed myself in Enid Blyton’s Famous Five, Heidi, and Fairy Tales, Grimm and otherwise.I wanted to be Marya Morevna, the beautiful Russian warrior princess and marry Tsaravitch Ivan. No wimpy peasunder the mattress for her nor ludicrously long golden tresses.

WHAT KATY DIDKATE STILBORN, HEAD OF OPERATIONS BLACKWELL’S UK.



“Many things we need can wait.The child cannot. Now is the timehis bones are formed, his minddeveloped. To him we cannot saytomorrow, his name is today.”

Gabriela Mistral – Nobel Prize Winning Poet

B4 SPOTLIGHTPhotography: Ed Nix © The Story Museum

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After the success of the Meet Oxfordshire showcase held in London lastNovember Meet Oxfordshire hosted a Summer Garden Party in July at themagnificent Rhodes House in the heart of Oxford.

The event showcased some of the leading venues and suppliers from Oxfordand Oxfordshire who are renowned for hosting meetings and events on everyscale – Le Manoir aux Quat’Saisons, Four Pillars Hotels, The Old Swan andMinster Mill, Blenheim Palace, The Macdonald Randolph and Heythrop ParkResort to name a few. Over 20 venues and suppliers showcased their venueswith some flamboyant stands, with attendees enjoying prize giveaways andgoodies.

Meet Oxfordshire were targeting regional conference and corporate bookers toattend this prestigious event designed to showcase the very best of Oxfordshireas a world class destination for conferences and events.

Jo Butler Head of Tourism and Marketing at Visit Oxfordshire – “We were thrilledto be hosting this event to demonstrate to existing and potential clients thedelights of our county and the importance of Business Tourism to the localvisitor economy. Oxford and Oxfordshire is an excellent destination to host aconference due to its central location and the wide variety of quality venuesand services we have on offer”.

B4 were delighted to be the event’s Media Partner, with B4’s Managing Director,Richard Rosser stating. “We are delighted to be associated with MeetOxfordshire and their first showcase event in the city to help raise awarenessof Oxfordshire as a conference destination. Rhodes House is a favourite venueof ours and having spoken to a large number of the exhibitors, the event wasa great success with many exhibitors reporting making good contacts andhealthy enquiries.”

www.meetoxfordshire.com

newsMeet Oxfordshire showcases leading venues in Oxford


Benefits of using ‘search’:• Ability to target a specific set of skills and experience• The search can include talking to potential candidates who are based

UK wide and internationally• Identifying and talking to appropriate ‘sources’ helps to qualify

candidates at the first stage• Targeting individuals who are not on the market• Your headhunter can clearly and professionally discuss the opportunity

to potential candidates• Search is the only method most senior level candidates will engage

with

The search process is undoubtedly the norm at the senior end of the market;at director and board level. At this level, individuals will be expecting to be‘headhunted’ for their next move and are very unlikely to be on the openmarket unless they have been made redundant. It is also at this senior levelwhere the impact of a successful hire will be felt more keenly by anorganisation in terms of growth, profitability, creation of new markets etc.Getting the right person is the top priority and making a mistake has seriousconsequences.

So what actually is the process of search? It is a thorough, methodical andproactive process of approaching people directly for a potential role. It involvesmany hours of internet research, telephone conversations, and meetings.Successful headhunters are well networked; they shortlist candidates on thebasis of thorough and painstaking research and often with an element of ‘gutinstinct’.

Clients new to search often fear that the process is more expensive and lengthy.In fact, when it comes to fees and timeline, search can be surprisingly similarto a recruitment exercise. Typical recruitment agency fees are 15-25% of thefirst year’s salary, usually on the basis of a contingent assignment. Search feescan be anywhere between 20-30%. Because of the time investment necessaryin a search assignment, most fees are split between a proportion up front, andthe remainder on completion. An agency may be able to send in a shortlist of‘ready’ candidates in as little as a few hours or days, but waiting 2-4 weeks fora headhunter will produce a vastly superior shortlist.

Oxfordshire has the advantage of a strong international profile particularlythrough the University, automotive and life sciences networks. With many ofOxfordshire’s businesses reliant on international markets, being able to sourcetop talent with overseas experience can be vital. The data below was collatedearlier this year from a cross-section of Oxfordshire’s businesses, and clearlyshows the wide geographic profile of our current Board leaders.

The recruitment climate has undergone plenty of changes over the last coupleof decades. When I started out in the mid 90’s the country was coming out ofa recession, however, fortunes changed quickly and by the end of the 90’s the‘war for talent’ had become frenzied. The market was ‘candidate driven’ andclients had to work hard to attract the top talent. The top of the recruitmentbubble came in the form of the new ‘dotcoms’; high fliers left the safety of thecorporate world in exchange for the excitement of embryonic but well-fundedventures. Suddenly the bubble burst. The last decade has been tough forrecruiters; market confidence has been low, consolidation has occurred in mostindustries, and the economy challenging. The market shifted towards beingclient driven.

One exception to the general trend has been with director and Board levelappointments. Just as with the property market where the ‘trophy’ housescontinue to change hands regardless of short-term economic factors, the sameis true with business leaders. It comes down to supply and demand; therelatively small pool of proven and successful business leaders are even morehotly fought over when conditions are tough.

Market conditions are now returning to more familiar times with confidenceincreasing and companies hiring. The market will turn back to being candidatedriven and that means employers now need to shake off any complacencyabout their ability to attract the best people.

www.nicolagardiner.com

Unlike in London, the headhunting industry in Oxford is populated by a small number of niche firms, and perhapsbecause of this, there is often some confusion as to the difference between a search assignment and a recruitmentexercise. One analogy that can be useful when making that distinction is to view potential candidates as being withina pool or pond. With a search exercise, the headhunter hand picks the candidates who are in the pond for that specificrole only, from which the shortlist is chosen. In a recruitment exercise, the pond is full of candidates who are ‘on themarket’ and may have registered their details with one or often a variety of agencies/job boards. The recruiter selectsthe best possible shortlist from that pool of available talent only.

TO ‘SEARCH’OR TO ‘FIND?


Oxfordshire

ORIGINAL LOCATION OF BOARD MEMBERS

UK Overseas

27% 29%

44%


B4 ADVICE

“Successful headhunters are well networked;they shortlist candidates on the basis of thorough and painstaking research andoften with an element of ‘gut instinct’”

Nicola Gardiner

Photography: ww

w.studio-8.co.uk


events

THE COMPLEATANGLERThursday 24th October 20136:00pm - 8:30pm

The Regency Suite, Marlow Bridge, Marlow,Buckinghamshire, SL7 1RG, United Kingdom.



‘Arrive early and take a show round of thehotel and two lucky attendees will win a

Champagne Afternoon Tea for Two’

ABOUT OUR HOSTS

B4 Buckinghamshire and Buckinghamshire Business First are pleased toannounce our second joint event held at The Compleat Angler Hotel. Theevent will take place in the Regency Suite situated in the hotel.

The Macdonald Compleat Angler is located in a unique positionoverlooking the River Thames at Marlow Bridge, Buckinghamshire, only40 minutes from London and Oxford and within a short drive of the M4and M40 motorways. Selected as one of the UK and Ireland’s top 200AA four red star hotel’s, its inspirational surroundings provide a calmingbackdrop for meetings and events.

Buckinghamshire Business First‘s aim is to help businesses thrive andgrow by creating a dynamic environment in the Entrepreneurial Heart ofBritain. Our role is to provide the link between public policy and thebusiness community in Buckinghamshire, to bring together the collectivevoice of Buckinghamshire's Businesses, where our members can developtheir skills and knowledge, network and benefit from a range of memberevents.

www.macdonaldhotels.co.uk/compleatanglerwww.bbf.uk.comPlease register for the event here:

http://www.regonline.com/b4bbfcompleatangler

REGISTRATION


events

THE FORBURYHOTELThursday 17th October 20135:00pm - 7:30pm

Reading. Berkshire, RG1 3EJ,United Kingdom.



‘Experience The ForburyHotel’s private cinema’

ABOUT OUR HOSTS

B4 Berkshire is delighted to announce a fabulous new venue for ourevents at The Forbury Hotel, Reading. The event will take place in theCerise Restaurant located in the hotel.

The Forbury Hotel has been described as ‘The UK's Sexiest TownhouseHotel’ by The London Evening Standard and the design and opulence isthe talk of the fashionable set.

From the 86,000 Italian glass beads in the chandelier running the heightof the building in the old lift shaft, to the opulent fabrics and wallpapersand attention to every single detail - there is simply no place in the UK asextraordinarily opulent and stunning.

The Forbury was designed for both business and pleasure. The latesttechnology and plush surroundings guarantee a hitch-free meeting guestswill remember with pleasure. All meeting rooms are fully air conditionedwith natural daylight, and all also offer complimentary Wi-Fi.

www.theforburyhotel.co.uk

Please register for the event here:http://www.regonline.com/b4berksforbury

REGISTRATION

Finding the right clothes for work in the city and leisure in thecountryside can be problematic even in the age of internetshopping and specialised clothing retailers. Let me introduce youto Carol Rawson and Sallie Belton and their High Wycombe basedcompany, Suit the City. Their bespoke tailoring business offers anexclusive personal service, which provides high quality, made-to-measure suits and separates for both men and women. No morehunting around the High Street searching for that elusive item:instead, Carol and Sallie will bring their seamless service to you.So their advice and high quality tailoring can be yours at anaffordable price.

A gap in the marketSuit the City caters to a wide range of market segments, including time-starved business people, aspiring graduates, bankers, celebrities and evenlocal farmers, all of whom desire the personal touch, the best in tailoringand convenience at an affordable price. Their celebrated clientele includesmany professionals and even the Gloucester rugby team.

About Suit the CityWhat makes the business so special is the time spent with each and everyclient. ‘Attention to detail is the key’, says Technical Director, Sallie Belton,“we take the time to understand the client’s lifestyle and personality sothat their choices reflect the image that they want to project’. The clientgets to choose from thousands of fabrics and lots of bespoke designdetails. Being measured up is easy and relaxed and the majority of clientswalk away with their finished garment at the second visit”. For convenience,Suit the City keeps its clients’ measurements on their computer system,so subsequent orders can be placed over the phone or by email ifpreferred.

This business formula has proved very successful for Suit the City. Carolassures me that, “Age and size are not a problem: our oldest client is 96and about 4ft 10” tall, whilst some of the rugby players are 6ft 8” or 6ft 9”tall!” One of our most challenging clients to fit was the sixty strongGloucester Rugby team and its management. “We had two days tomeasure sixty rugby players, all coming straight from training into themeeting room, it was very entertaining measuring with an audience! But,we now know that in our suits they look just great away from the pitch”.

Carol Rawson came up with the original idea for Suit the City some 25years ago. The business idea took shape and became reality after sherecruited Sallie Belton from Oxford Brookes Business School to work inanother of her businesses. Sallie became a Director of Suit the City whilstcompleting her final exams and together they launched Suit the City inMay 2007.

At first, the company focussed on providing quality bespoke tailoring forthe growing number of professional women. It soon became apparent thatmen required the same bespoke, convenient and affordable service and

An interview with Carol Rawson, ManagingDirector of Suit the City, by Nicholas Newman.

SUITED TOOXFORD& BEYOND


B4 SERVICES

the business rapidly adapted to cater for the male executive.

Unique Selling PointWhat makes Suit the City so special? In an industry full of unethicalmanufacturing and exploitation the other key to success it its strongethical foundation. Carol says; “we provide high quality at an affordableprice, but we do this by cutting out expensive shops, not by using cheapfabrics and cheap labour. When we set up the business, we sourcedsuppliers that we could trust and since we manufacture in Europe, wecan guarantee quality far superior to many competitors”.

Recent developmentsLike all entrepreneurs, Carol and Sallie are ambitious. Last year theylaunched Suit the Country, diversifying into weekend wear, suitable foroutdoor pursuits as well as looking good at the races. Carol says, “Manyclients who are Suit the City clients are looking for the same service fortheir weekend wear – they want the choice and fit that we offer, but inmore casual clothes, so this was an obvious move for the business.”

The other major development is with the franchise network – thecompany wants to offer its service nationwide and they plan to establisharound fifty franchises across the country in the next five years.

“If you are interested in working with Suit the City as a franchisee in theOxford area, please get in touch, we offer full training them in all aspectsof the business. The one thing you won’t be doing is sitting at a sewingmachine – the business of manufacturing is highly technical and theexpert tailors are the key to our success”.

To get in touch www.suitthecity.comTel 0800 011 2450


Sallie Belton

Carol Rawson

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Regular physical exercise has been shown to produce significant improvementsin mobility, functionality and quality of life. Participants commonly see fantasticand rapid improvements in these areas after visiting CLEAR on a regular basis.

CLEAR have an abundance of friendly staff including volunteers and studentsfrom Brookes Sports Science courses and a very supportive, friendly andrelaxed atmosphere is offered at the CLEAR unit. Participants regularly informstaff about how much they benefit from the relaxed and social atmosphere,and it makes for a fun day at the CLEAR.

"The progression I have made in 6 weeks has been quite remarkable –noticed by friends and family. Importantly I feel more confident and capablein my physical abilities." Commented Peter Harling, a CLEAR Unit participant

"My fondest memories were the smiles on the participants faces when theyachieved something that they thought they could never do. If you get theopportunity of working in the CLEAR, go for it! It is an experience you don’twant to miss." Beamed Kirsty Fuller, a CLEAR Unit volunteer

Participants who attend the CLEAR typically:• Increase their range of movement• Improve fitness and confidence• Become competent at using fitness equipment• Be able to monitor their own performance

Within a few weeks, everyone referred to the CLEAR unit should feel fitter andenjoy the benefits gained from increased levels of physical activity. CLEAR staffare experienced in providing exercise and rehabilitation programmes toindividuals with a wide range of clinical conditions.CLEAR Manager, James Bateman who looked after the 24 strong B4 team

during the recent charity ride from Edinburgh to Oxford, is adamant that CLEARcan help any of us in our health and fitness goals. “I enjoy doing what I can tohelp our participants, making them more efficient in performing everydaytasks. This in turn improves their self-esteem and confidence. It’s such afriendly atmosphere in the CLEAR – our participants really enjoy interactingwith staff and students.” One of the participants backed this up with theirpositive endorsement of the department’s great work. “The CLEARteamleader’s professional but always friendly manner has helped our son togain more confidence and endurance over the last year. His understandingof our son’s learning difficulties as well as his ability to communicate with himat an appropriate level has helped our son in a way that no other gym could.”

Gavin Smith provides another moving testimonial to CLEAR’s excellent work. “Iwas 27 when I was involved in a motorcycle accident which left me withsevere brain trauma. After spending two years in hospital and five years in awheelchair, I started coming to the CLEAR unit.

“When I began, I couldn’t lift 25kg, but can now lift 65kg on my paralysed leg.The CLEAR unit has got me out of a wheelchair and walking at a normalspeed. It feels unbelievable to walk again! It’s given me a new lease of life.

“The support is fantastic. There is a nice and relaxed atmosphere where we’reall on the same level and get to know each other really well. My motivationin life is not a problem anymore. I used to get depressed about being disabled,but with the CLEAR unit I am improving all the time. My aim is to run amarathon at the age of 45.”

To find out more about CLEAR call 01865 484293 or [email protected]

The CLEAR unit at Oxford Brookes University is a fitness studio designed exclusively for people who require a highlevel of supervision due to their medical condition. It is also suitable for people who may feel anxious or intimidatedby the thought of attending a local gym and those who have rarely exercised in the past.

CLEARWE SPOTLIGHT THE CLINICAL EXERCISE AND REHABILITATION UNITAT OXFORD BROOKES UNIVERSITY.


B4 HEALTH


“The Water Garden is designed to enable families toenjoy outdoor space with asense of adventure. Eachhouse is linked by water,ensuring the rich wildlifehabitat is protected andgrows in and around each

building”Red Paxton

The Water Garden is home to the UK’s firstcanoe safari – where homeowners can step offtheir doorstep, climb into a canoe and head outto the neighbouring Spinney Lake to catch freshtrout. They can then canoe back and cook thefish on their own roof terrace.

Starting from £525,000, all 10 of the four- ‐bedroom Water Garden properties have beendesigned by leading architect, Andy Ramus, whosevision aligns with the eco- ‐architecture credentialsthat Lower Mill Estate has won a multitude ofawards for. Building work on the development willstart in September, with completion expected inSpring 2014.

Each of the 10 properties, which are perfect forfamilies wanting to relax or seek adventure oncalm, safe waters, epitomise open- ‐plan living withinternal living spaces leading out onto large externaldecks. In addition, the roof terrace on each houseoffers incredible views across Lower Mill Estate andthe large open water Spinney Lake.

The properties are also incredibly economic thanksto under- ‐floor heating, LED lightingand a ‘masterswitch’ to ensure all electricity can be switched offat the flick of a button. Bespoke interior touchescan be selected by the buyer as they wish andthere is also the option to have pergolas and herbgardens integrated into the design plan for anadditional cost.

A central garden, which appears to float like anisland in the water, acts as the focal point andcommunity hub of the development. The designconcept sees each of the houses positioned likespokes on a wheel while a connecting body ofwater has been specially shaped to link each houseto one another via canoe. The Water Gardenhouses sit within 550 acres of fresh air and space,with thousands of species thriving within the Estate,enabling owners to truly live side- ‐by- ‐side withnature. Home owners will further benefit fromaccess to the Estate’s award- ‐ winning Spa whichis located just a stone’s throw from thedevelopment.

Owner, Red Paxton, comments ‘The Water Gardenis designed to enable families to enjoy outdoorspace with a sense of adventure. Each house islinked by water, ensuring the rich wildlife habitat isprotected and grows in and around each building.”

Since it was founded 16 years ago, Lower MillEstate has been at the forefront of offering freshconcepts to vacation home buyers, all of which putthe habitat first. These include the recent launch ofLakeshore Reserve – an uber- ‐exclusive nine plotprivately- ‐gated development, with plots startingfrom £525,000.

01285 869489www.lowermillestate.com

This July marked the launch of the Water Garden at the award- winning LowerMill Estate in the Cotswolds – an exclusive development of just 10 propertiesdesigned for the very best in outdoor as well as indoor living.

NOW YOU CAN PADDLEYOUR OWN CANOE – QUITELITERALLY – AS THE WATERGARDEN IS UNVEILED ATLOWER MILL ESTATE


B4 PROPERTY

BROWNS O X F O R D5-11 Woodstock Road, Oxford, OX2 6HA

Telephone: 01865 511995 Email: [email protected]

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So what does make an agent different? We all use the internet, The Oxford Times, various lifestyle magazines, someof us advertise in London, some do open houses, we have even distributed cupcakes at the train station to tell peopleabout a house. This year we are exhibiting property at The Luxury Property Show at the Hurlingham Club in Londonin October, showcasing our clients homes to the highest net worth buyers in the UK and from Overseas.

What is more important to us than anything ishow we deal with people while they are sellingand buying through us.

I am constantly being told by people that I shouldbe telling the world exactly what we do differentlyat Pink & Black because they are so surprised athow far we go for our clients. So here goes…

We recently called a client to book in a survey onher property, she could hardly speak but wemanaged to ascertain that she was at the JR. Sheis a widow and so one of us popped to see her tocheck she was ok, she was quite poorly but in goodspirits, we are not quite sure how this happenedbut the person visiting inadvertently ended up asher next of kin! We then visited until she came outa week later. The prospect of moving whilst feelingunwell was overwhelming but she really wanted togo ahead. So Team PB to the rescue, we sorted hermove completely from packing to arrangingcleaners, removals, garden clearance et al. Not tomention finding her somewhere to live on atemporary basis. The day before completion itcame to light that the transfer document had notbeen signed, rather than her doing a 100 mileround trip from her daughters in London, one of uspopped to London, got it signed and had it back tothe solicitors in time for completion. You mightthink that our job was complete but not quite – ourclient was moving to Australia and with a seriousfear of flying just couldn’t go… what happenednext… you guessed correctly ,one of us flew withher then came back after a few days later.

So on to Mr and Mrs R. A retired couple in their70’s. They had had a particularly torrid experiencein their journey to find a new home, when they

came to view a property through us. They werestaying with friends and so technically homelesswhich was causing great stress. We told them abouta house that was on the market that they had notconsidered, having listened to what they reallywanted we strongly advised them to view, they didand loved it, they offered and off we went with thetransaction. The timescale was tight but we pushedthings with the solicitors all the way, until alongcame a little tax problem… well big really. We had

a meeting with our vendor to look through thingsfor him, things looked doomy until we managed tofind some information that his solicitor andaccountant had not noticed which unlocked theproblem. So within 3 weeks they were in, settledand happy.

And onto the next, I called a client the week beforecompletion to check that everything was sorted fortheir imminent move. Alarm bells rang with thestatement “I’m a bit worried about the removals,

it’s a friend of my daughter who I wanted to givethe job to as he is only just starting up”! I ask howmany people and vans, the answer 1 van 3 people.Now I am worried, so arrange for 2 of us to go andhelp. I also encourage the rental of more vans, thehouse was nearly 5000 sq ft with 2 acres ofgarden. On the day by 10 am it is very clear that 2more vans really are needed, 2 more vans arriveand amazingly we finished at 10.30pm exhausted!Note to self on that one, insist people use anexperienced removals firm.

There are many more stories for us to tell and wewill in the future. What we really want people toknow is that we genuinely care about our clientsand making their move as stress free as possible.We will never be a volume agent as havinghundreds of houses to sell just doesn’t rock ourboat and isn’t what Pink and Black is about. If wehad a hundred clients we couldn’t possibly offerthe same level of service that we currently do. Wemight be like marmite and don’t suit every seller inthe market, conversely not every seller suits Pinkand Black. We are always very honest with peopleat our initial meeting as to whether or not we thinkwe are the right agent for them. So if you knowanyone who needs an agent to really work for themand support them throughout the transaction inevery way imaginable, get them to give us a call orpop in for coffee with us in our very relaxed andcomfortable office.

We look forward to meeting you soon.

The Pink & Black Team.

www.pinkandblackproperty.com

“What we really wantpeople to know isthat we genuinely care about our

clients and makingtheir move asstress free as possible”

PINK & BLACKSELL ING HOMES WITH STYLE & INTELL IGENCE


B4 PROPERTY

Qualified, Registered, Insured | High Standards of Diagnosis, Treatment and Communication

Visit www.cliniconthegreen.com for more details

Bletchingdon

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monica franke a4 ad.pdf 21/8/13 14:06:45

ADVICE

ACCOUNTING

Wenn Townsend PTony HainesPartner

t: 01865 559900 w: www.wenntownsend.co.uk

The MGroup PRichard ClaytonPartner

t: 01865 552925w: www.themgroup.co.uk

Shaw Gibbs APeter O’ConnellPartner

t: 01865 292200 w: www.shawgibbs.com

Wellers AStuart CrookPartner

t: 01865 723131w: www.wellersaccountants.co.uk

Grant Thornton PWendy HartManaging Partner

t: 01865 799899w: www.grant-thornton.co.uk

Russell Whitlock Accountancyt: 01865 481625w: www.rw-accountancy.co.uk

Rees Russellt: 01993 702418w: www.reesrussell.co.uk

Richardsons Accountantst: 01844 261155w: www.richardsons-group.co.uk

BUSINESS ADVICE

Jamesons Insolvency & Business Recoveryt: 01993 707860w: www.jamesons.co.uk

Thomas Internationalt: 01608 659910w: www.thomasinternational.net

Strategic Mentorst: 01993 771728w: www.strategicmentors.co.uk

Exiliat: 07817 767649

Anrah Developmentt: 01865 243655w: www.anrah.co.uk

Concept Leaders Ltdt: 01666 849071w: www.conceptleaders.com

Hilltop Consultancyt: 01844 238692w: www.hilltopconsultancy.co.uk

Adhere Trainingt: 0844 846 3866w: www.adheretraining.co.uk

Active Education and Training Ltdt: 01865 594325w: www.oxfordactive.co.uk

Increase Your Sales in 30 Dayst: 07850 547423w: www.increaseyoursalesin30days.com

Oxford Professional Consultingt: 01865 436791w: www.oxfordprofessionalconsulting.com

RTS Breakthrough Solutionst: 07789 405079w: www.rts-breakthroughsolutions.co.uk

LEGAL

Darbys Solicitors PSimon McCrumManaging Partner

t: 01865 811700 w: www.darbys.co.uk

BrookStreet Des Roches LLP APaddy GreganPartner

t: 01235 836655 w: www.bsdr.com

Henmans Freeth LLP AMalcolm SadlerSenior Partner

t: 01865 781000 w: www.henmansfreeth.co.uk

Manches ARichard SmithManaging Partner

t: 01865 722106 w: www.manches.com

Turpin & Miller LLP AEmily BoardmanPartner

t: 01865 770111 w: www.turpinmiller.co.uk

Brethertons AKarina RayKey Client Manager

t: 01295 661425 w: www.brethertons.co.uk

White & Black Legal LLPt: 0800 035 2656w: www.wablegal.com

Morgan Cole LLPt: 01865 262600w: www.morgan-cole.com

Leigh Edwards Solicitorst: 01865 884436w: www.leighedwards.com

plainlaw LLPt: 01865 240202w: www.plainlaw.co.uk

Lewis Silkint: 020 7074 8494w: www.lewissilkin.com

BUSINESS SERVICES

ARCHIVING AND STORAGE

Ardington Archives AJanet GibbonsDirector

t: 01367 718710 w: www.ardingtonarchives.co.uk


B4 contactsCONTACTS DIRECTORYAdvice................................................................................................................................................131Business Services...................................................................................................................131Charities................................................................................................................................135Conference, Events & Venues......................................................................................135Education.......................................................................................................................................137Finance.............................................................................................................................................137Health & Leisure......................................................................................................................137HR.........................................................................................................................................................139

IT & Telecommunications................................................................................................139Manufacturing..........................................................................................................................141Science & Technology.........................................................................................................141Marketing & Design.............................................................................................................141Property & Building..............................................................................................................143R&R......................................................................................................................................................145Retail..................................................................................................................................................147

P A M B A S S A D O R A

The Venue for all Occasions

concerts | conferences | weddings| exhibitions

www.oxfordtownhall.co.uk t: 01865 252195 e: [email protected]

townhall quarter page ad.pdf 3/9/13 16:01:18

• Parties• Proms • Weddings• Anniversaries

• Airport Transfers• Theatre Trips • Race Days• Shopping Trips • Sporting Events

www.1ststretch.com01865 389 279

Stretch quarter ad_Layout 1 27/08/2013 09:44 Page 1

EAT - DRINK - ENJOY WWW.OXFORDCASTLEQUARTER.COMOXFORD CASTLE QUARTER, OXFORD, OX1 1AY

BUSINESS SUPPLIES AND EQUIPMENT

Aston & James Office PSupplies LimitedDarren AstonDirectort: 01993 706900w: www.aston-james.co.uk

CLEANING SERVICES

Pinewood Cleaning Servicest: 01993 862866w: www.pinewoodcc.co.uk

Excel Dry Cleanerst: 01865 511 773w: www.exceldrycleanersofoxford.co.uk

HEALTH & SAFETY

Shawcity Ltdt: 01367 899553w: www.shawcity.co.uk

DISTRIBUTION

First Move Direct Marketingt: 01494 539300 w: www.firstmove.co.uk

ENVIRONMENTAL SERVICES

Gavin JonesAMartin FordBusiness Development Executive

t: 01932 833833 w: www.gavinjones.co.uk

PAVY Ltdt: 01865 349014 w: www.pavy.co.uk

Grundont: 01491 839212 w: www.grundon.com

INSURANCE

Chase TempletonACharles FrostIndependent Insurance Consultant

t: 0800 018 3633 w: www.chasetempleton.co.uk

Osbornes Insurancest: 01844 214316w: www.osbornesins.co.uk

LOCAL GOVERNMENT

West Oxfordshire ADistrict CouncilWilliam BartonBusiness Development Officer

w: www.westoxon.gov.uk/business

West Oxfordshire ADistrict CouncilHayley BeerTourism Services Managert: 01993 861558w: www.oxfordshirecotswolds.org

NETWORKING GROUPS

B4 Magazine PRichard RosserEditor

t: 01865 742211 w: www.b4-business.com

Opendoorzt: 01865 339434w: www.opendoorz.biz

SECURITY

Executive Alarms Ltd AJohn KeownDirector

t: 01865 435435w: www.executive-systems.co.uk

Executive Fire AProtection LtdMickey Franklin Managing Directort: 01865 771133w: www.executive-systems.co.uk

TRANSPORT

Brazenose Limitedt: 01753 801079w: www.realplay.co.uk

Teletrax Limitedt: 01235 856054w: www.teletraxltd.co.uk

MOTOR

Motor Village Oxford PCristiano CalabreseManaging Director

t: 01865 376000w: www.motorvillageuk.com

Ultimate Partnerships AMike RebelloDirector

t: 0845 4591003w: www.ultimatepartnerships.com

Ultimate Car Control PRobb GravettFounder

t: 01344 751669w: www.ultimatecarcontrol.com

The Archive Centre ADavid CoultonOwner

t: 01296 425744 w: www.thearchivecentre.com

My Business Backupt: 01865 920581w: www.mybusinessbackup.co.uk

AUDIO VISUAL

City Audio Visual APeter GunnDirector

t: 01865 722800 w: www.cityaudiovisual.co.uk

Bang & Olufsen PMark JamesDirector

t: 01865 511241 w: www.bang-olufsen.com

Cooz’s Recording Studiot: 01865 236117 w: www.coozes.com

ShiningWithProductions ASander AbenFilm Producer / Director / Editor

t: 07976 939420 w: www.shiningwithproductions.com

BUSINESS CONSULTANTS

The Profitable Hotel CompanyAStuart HarrisonOwner

t: 01993 706632 w: www.profitablehotelcompany.co.uk

The Convergency PartnershipAAnne AugustineDirector

t: 07506 139920 w: www.convergencypartnership.com

Insight Oxfordt: 01865 596 771w: www.insightoxford.co.uk

BUSINESS ORGANISATIONS

Institute of Directors ATimon ColgroveChairman

t: 01235 773500 w: www.iod.com/oxfordshire

Bizlinxt: 0333 700 1057 w: www.bizlinx.org.uk


B4 contacts

www.meetoxfordshire.com contact us now call 01865 252799

� Follow us on Twitter @meetoxfordshire

Meet Oxfordshire is the first point of contact for anyoneconsidering the county for a meeting, conference or event. Ourservices include free venue finding and accommodation bookings.

Oxfordshire is guaranteedto get everyone thinking

Relationship Problems?

Reading, Oxford, London [email protected] www.manches.com

divorce separation

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conferences riverside location training friendly excellent catering 10-1000 people easy access flexible agm spacious meetings light banquet lunch meetings break-out rooms

exhibition space welcoming a�ordable high environmental standards staging and lighting

PROMOTIONAL OFFER:

10% OFF ROOM HIRE CHARGE FOR 1ST TIME USERS - QUOTE ‘b4’

www.kingscentre.co.uk

THE KING’S CENTREOSNEY MEAD, OXFORD, OX2 0ES

01865 297400

‘‘‘‘what you wantto get done

gets donehere

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Kings centre quarter ad.pdf 19/8/13 16:26:19

01235 55 45 [email protected]

40 Nuffield Centrum, Nuffield WayAbingdon-on-Thames, Oxfordshire OX14 1RL

high impact indigo digital print

litho print

design & artwork

posters & large format display graphics

promotional exhibition banners

finishing, mailing & distribution

your one-stop print solution

Small Abbey Advert:Layout 1 20/8/13 11:06 Page 1

B4 contactsCrisist: 01865 263911w: www.crisis.org.uk

Aspiret: 01865 204450w: www.aspireoxford.co.uk

CONFERENCE, EVENTS & VENUES

CATERING

Oxford Fine Dining PSue RandallManaging Director

t: 01865 728240w: www.oxfordfinedining.co.uk

Elegant Cuisine AMichael AshtonManaging Director

t: 01865 391888w: www.elegantcuisine.com

CONFERENCES

Lady Margaret HallPBill KempHead of Conference Services

t: 01865 611079 w: www.lmh.ox.ac.uk

Pembroke College AHuw EdmundsHead of Conferences and Events

t: 01865 276484w: www.pmb.ox.ac.uk/Conferences

Egrove Park AJill GrievesonConference Manager

t: 01865 422757 w: www.sbs.oxford.edu/conferencing

Four Pillars Hotels AChris GreenGroup Marketing Manager

t: 01993 777532w: www.four-pillars.co.uk

Magdalen College School AEmma WithersEvents Manager

t: 01865 242191 w: www.mcsoxford.org

Malmaison PPaul WatsonGeneral Manager

t: 01865 268400 w: www.malmaison-oxford.com

BMW PCatherine Rivetts

t: 01865 319000w: www.oxfordbmw.co.uk

TRAVEL

City Sightseeing PJane MarshallTransport Manager

t: 01865 790 522 w: www.citysightseeingoxford.com

London Oxford Airport PJames Dillon-GodfrayBusiness Development Manager

t: 01865 290 600 w: www.londonoxfordairport.com

Visit Oxfordshire AJoanne ButlerTourism Team Leader

t: 01865 252200 w: www.visitoxfordandoxfordshire.com

Weekly Homet: 01993 811711 w: www.weeklyhome.com

Travel Counsellorst: 01295 720266w: www.travelcounsellors.com

CHARITIES

Helen & Douglas House AVanessa FayCorporate & Trusts FundraisingManagert. 01865 794749w: www.helenanddouglas.org.uk

Oxford Inspires At: 01865 815525w: www.oxfordinspires.org

Oxford Radcliffe Hospitals Charitable Funds AGraham BrogdenHead of Community Fundraising t: 01865 743442 w: www.oxfordradcliffe.nhs.uk

Oxfordshire Community AFoundationJayne WoodleyChief Executivet: 01865 798666w: www.oxfordshire.org

CLIC Sargentt: 03003 300803w: www.clicsargent.org.uk

Sue Ryder Caret: 01491 641404w: www.sueryder.org

Meet Oxfordshire AJulie ArcherManaging Agent

T: 01608 659900W: www.meetoxfordshire.com

Williams PConference CentreBrendan CaffreyConference Centre Managert: 01235 777900w: www.williamsconferencecentre.com

The Examination Schools AKay HoggEvents Manager

t: 01865 276905w: www.examschools.ox.ac.uk

Exeter Colleget: 01865 279600w: www.exeter.ox.ac.uk/conferences/

Howbery Business Park AAngela AndrewsMarketing and Lettings Manager

t: 01491 822305w: www.howberypark.com

The King’s Centret: 01865 297400w: www.kingscentre.co.uk

Heythrop Park Resort ATracy StantonSales Manager

t: 01608 673372w: www.heythroppark.co.uk

The Burlington Houset: 01865 513513w: www.burlington-hotel-oxford.co.uk

The Feathers PPete SaundersHotel Manager

t: 01993 812291w: www.feathers.co.uk

The Manor PChristian KabergGeneral Manager

t: 01869 350621w: www.themanorweston.co.uk

Oxford Town Hall ALucy ParrSales Officer

t: 01865 252195w: www.oxfordtownhall.co.uk

EVENTS

Oxfordshire Registration ServicesAJacquie BugejaHead of Registration and Coroner's Servicest: 0845 129 5900w: www.oxfordshire.gov.uk


At Clinic 95 our highly experienced dental professionals pride themselves on their gentle approach to dental care ensuring patients of all ages are completely atease and fully relaxed during their visits.

Clinic 95 is continuously investing in state of the art equipment in order to better our patients experience and aid education. Our aim is to improve your dental wellbeing with a thorough, comprehensive service that is second to none.

“Thank you very much forthe first class traetment andfive star service.”

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Clinic 95 Advert new.pdf 20/9/13 12:22:58

B4 contacts


VENUES

Blenheim Palace PJohn HoyChief Executive

t: 01993 810501 w: www.blenheimpalace.com

Blenheim Palace Hospitalityt: 01993 813 874 w: www.blenheimpalace.com/hospitality

Oxford Castle Quartert: 01865 201657 w: www.oxfordcastle.com

Rhodes House PMartin GubbDirector

t: 01865 270918w: www.rhodeshouseoxford.com

Venue Services, Bodleian Library AFelice VermeulenMarketing & Administrative Assistantt: 01865 287400w: www.bodleian.ox.ac.uk

EVENT MANAGEMENT

tmb Events LtdNigel GreenDirector

t: 01865 822500w: www.tmb-events.com

The Active Network Pt: 08700 841 480w: www.regonline.co.uk

Altis Consulting ACharlie AllenManaging Director

t: 01451 812237 w: www.altisconsulting.co.uk

Boys and Girls Promotionst: 01865 595717w: www.boysandgirlspromotions.co.uk

The Sound Foundationt: 07973 559203w: www.soundfoundation.co.uk

EQUIPMENT HIRE

Oxford Event Hire AKieran LynchOwner

t: 01865 760158w: www.oxfordeventhire.co.uk

CATERING EQUIPMENT DISTRIBUTION

Basicst: 01993 706708w: www.basictableware.com

EDUCATION

FURTHER EDUCATION

Oxford & Cherwell AValley CollegeSally DickettsPrincipalt: 01865 550550 w: www.ocvc.ac.uk

SAE Institute Pt: 01865 787150 w: oxford.sae.edu

SCHOOLS

Bloxham School ANick IrvineMarketing Director

t: 01295 724332w: www.bloxhamschool.com

Tudor Hall Boarding School AWendy GriffithsHeadmistress

t: 01295 263434w: www.tudorhallschool.com

FINANCE

ADVICE

Your Money Friend Ltd ATed YeatesManaging Director

t: 01235 838542w: www.yourmoneyfriend.co.uk

Total Credit Managementt: 01993 770770 w: www.totalcreditmanagement.co.uk

Strategic Finance Directort: 07967 681 774 w: www.strategicfd.co.uk

Herbert & Webstert: 01865 407755 w: www.herbertandwebster.co.uk

BANKING

LloydsTSB Commercial AKarl LeitelmayerSenior Manager, Commercial

t: 07764 625666w: www.lloydstsb.com

Barclays ATrevor FrenchCorporate Director Oxford

t: 07775 542467 w: www.barclayscorporate.com

SantanderJustin HaywardBusiness Development Director

t: 07809 493563w: www.santander.co.uk

Couttst: 01865 389039 w: www.coutts.com

RBS Corporate Bankingt: 0845 8351249 w: www.rbs.co.uk

IFA’s

Mark Barclay APartner at St. James's Place Wealth Management

t: 01865 793121w: www.mbarclay.co.uk

CMS Financial Management Ltdt: 01869 345588w: www.cmsfinancialltd.co.uk

FOCUSt: 01865 295295 w: www.focus-oxford.co.ukk

MORTGAGE ADVICE

Mortgage Choices AJames KeenePrincipal Consultant

t: 01993 862888w: www.mortgage-choices.com

HEALTH AND LEISURE

FITNESS

TLA Fitness ATom AldenFounder

t: 07554 400 401w: www.tlafitness.com

Prime Energy Fitness Ltdt: 01869 352000w: www.primeenergy.org

Inner Spacet: 01865 244321w: www.innerspace.org/oxford

Cherwell Boathouset: 01865 552746w: www.cherwellboathouse.co.uk

GOLF

Frilford Heath Golf Club AAlistair BoothDirector

t: 01865 390864 w: www.frilfordheath.co.uk

Our client took a 300% return on

investment from direct mail.

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In Residence at the University of Oxford2013/14 Guest artists includeRenée FlemingAnne-Sophie MutterMaxim VengerovNigel KennedyShlomo MintzJoseph WolfeDmitry SitkovetskyMarios PapadopoulosChoir of New College, OxfordMagdalen College ChoirChrist Church Cathedral ChoirBox Office: 01865 980 980www.oxfordphil.com

Riche de Fleurs are one of Oxfordshire’s leading florists specialising in Wedding and Event flowers, Gift Bouquets, Corporate Event flowers, and

flower contracts delivering to a number of small to large businesses acrossOxfordshire and the Cotswolds.

Take a look at our inspirational weddings, gorgeous gift bouquets, stunningcorporate work and fabulous events. It's our passion, and we hope you enjoy!

SPEAK TO OUR FRIENDLY TEAM TODAY ABOUT YOUR SPECIFIC NEEDS

01993 869202 [email protected] www.richeflowers.com

B4 contacts


Studley Wood Golf Club AKen HeathcoteManaging Director

t: 01865 351122 w: www.studleywoodgolfclub.co.uk

Magnolia Park Golf Club AMark McGeehanHead PGA Professional

t: 01844 239700 w: www.magnoliapark.co.uk

HEALTHCARE

Eyesite ADuarte MenesesManager

t: 01865 242300w: www.eyesite.co.uk

Robert Stanley Opticians AJohn EdwardsDirector

t: 01865 766488w: www.robertstanley.co.uk

Clinic95 AMaria HardmanBusiness Manager

t: 01865 241661w: www.clinic95.com

Monica Franket: 07970 119721 w: www.monicafranke.com

James Batemant: 01865 483839w: www.shs.brookes.ac.uk/clear

Linda Flanigan Hypnotherapyt: 07866 360359w: www.lfhypnotherapy-oxfordshire.co.uk

SPORT

Oxford United Football Club AIan LenaganChairman

t: 01865 337505 w: www.oufc.co.uk

Oxford University Rugby Football Club ATim StevensClub Administratort: 01865 432000 w: www.ourfc.org

London WelshRugby Club PCerys RobertsHead of Corporatest: 07768 306007 w: www.london-welsh.co.uk

Gazella HRt: 01865 339411w: www.gazellahr.co.uk

Spires HRt: 01865 880391w: www.spireshr.co.uk

MB HR Support Ltdt: 01993 882744w: www.mbhrsupport.co.uk

IT & TELECOMMUNICATIONS

DATABASE MANAGEMENT

InTouch CRM PJames WhiteManaging Director

t: 0845 310 9973 w: www.intouchcrm.co.uk

IT SERVICES

Computing InformationSystems (CIS) Ltd PRichard MarshDirectort: 01367 700555 w: www.cisltd.com

Bluespires ITt: 0845 5280505w: www.bluespires.co.uk

Data Efficiencyt: 01993 608612w: www.dataefficiency.co.uk

QPQ Software Ltdt: 01235 522516w: www.qpqsoftware.com

MOBILE PHONES

Everything Everywheret: 07968 107671w: www.everythingeverywhere.com

SOFTWARE DEVELOPMENT

QuarkXPresst: 0207 632 5612w: www.quark.com

Sophost: 01235 559933w: www.sophos.com

TELECOMMUNICATIONS

Orange Stripe ATelecommunicationsNigel PursallManaging Directort: 0845 241 7772 w: www.orangestripe.co.uk

The Jockey Club - South West Racecourses AMatthew Foxton-DuffyRegional Head of Marketing - South Westt: 01242 537608 w: www.thejockeyclub.co.uk

North Oxford Lawn Tennis Clubt: 01865 513560 (Clubhouse)w: www.northoxfordltc.org.uk

WELLBEING

Helen Money Nutrition AHelen MoneyOwner

t: 01865 339672w: www.helenmoneynutrition.com

BEAUTY

Bare UKt: 07773 764817w: www.bareuk.co.uk

Popham Hairdressingt: 01865 517040w: www.popham.com

HR

RECRUITMENT

Allen AssociatesKate AllenManaging Director

t: 01865 335600w: www.allen-associates.co.uk

myFD Recruitmentt: 01869 354041w: www.myfdrecruitment.co.uk

Avatar Recruitment Consultancy Ltdt: 01295 724570w: www.avatarrecruit.co.uk

Hayst: 01865 727071w: www.hays.com

Mars Recruitmentt: 0800 066 5606w: www.marsrecruitment.co.uk

Better People Ltdt: 01491 836632w: www.betterpeopleltd.co.uk

Nicola Gardiner Executive Searcht: 007900 912941w: www.nicolagardiner.com

HR CONSULTANT

HR2You PSarah MorrisOwner

t: 07789 711997 w: www.hr2you.co.uk

Commercial & Industrial: Office lighting and power Fire alarm systems Data installation Maintenance and fault finding Security, CCTV, door entry PAT testingFixed wiring testingAir conditioning installation

Domestic Services: Re-wiring Consumer units & upgrades Fault finding & resolution Home automation systems CCTV & security lighting Garden & pond lighting Safety inspection & testing

All our work is covered by the NICEIC 6 year insurance backed warranty

Enery saving solutions: Solar PV systems

Vphase voltage control LED lighting systemsElectrorad heating systems

tmew

01793 52600307766 238814

[email protected] Banbury Road, Oxford, OX2 7DY

01865 511773 www.exceldrycleanersofoxford.co.uk

Oxford’s specialist Dry Cleaners, experts incleaning all delicate items including silks to

wedding dresses.

New collection service from Witney

The Bayleaf RestaurantBangladeshi and Indian cuisine

4 Lombard Street, Eynsham, Witney, Oxon OX29 4HT

tel 01865 884 401 or 01865 884 402

“The moment your receive that first welcoming smile from the staffat the Bayleaf Bangladeshi & Indian restaurant, you

know you are in the hands of professionals capable of providing you with a great meal experience.”

Helen Peacock, Food Writer and Eynsham Resident

B4 contacts


Pink Connectt: 01865 592222w: www.pinkconnect.com

GHM Communicationst: 0845 058 4668w: www.ghmcommunications.com

WEBSITE DEVELOPMENT

Blink Design & Print AKeith SimpsonSenior Designer

t: 01865 742211 w: www.on-the-blink.com

Torpedo Group Limited AIain LewisDirector

t: 01865 733710 w: www.torpedogroup.com

Made Mobile AEdward CatlingDirector

t: 0845 299 7529 w: www.unicityapp.com

Olamalu AChristoph CorvinDirector

t: 01993 764566 w: www.olamalu.com

Urban Elementt: 01993 776 999w: www.urbanelement.com

White Octobert: 01865 706017w: www.whiteoctober.co.uk

WEB OPTIMISATION & SERVICES

Oxford Digital Marketing ASimon Wallace-JonesCo-Founder

t: 01865 600 508w: www.oxforddigitalmarketing.co.uk

Zest AAlex MinchinDirector

t: 0843 289 0161w: www.zestdigital.co

Glooo AChris JonesDirector

t: 01865 595707w: www.glooo.co.uk

SEOptimiset: 0845 299 0818w: www.seoptimise.com

Strangebrew APhil StrachanDirector

t: 07770 753975w: www.thinkbrandnotbland.co.uk

Rare Form New Media AJean H. PaldanDirector

t: 01865 790039w: www.rareformnewmedia.com

ADSt: 01993 885122 w: www.adsoxford.co.uk

Isis Creative Framingt: 01865 203420 w: www.isiscreative.co.uk

FREELANCE COPY WRITING AND EDITING

Wordsmith TMt: 01993 811579w: www.wordsmithtm.co.uk

Nicholas Newman Freelance Journalistt: 01865 762710w: www.nicnewmanoxford.com

MARKETING RESEARCH / TELEMARKETING

Lingo Telemarketing ASu CopelandManaging Director

t: 01865 886340 w: www.lingotelemarketing.com

MARKETING

Marketing Sense AJo SensecallDirector

t: 01865 883579 w: www.marketing-sense.co.uk

Cardwell Marketing AIan MerrimanDirector

t: 0845 1306634w: www.cardwellmarketing.co.uk

AWM Marketingt: 01367 244996 w: www.awm-marketing.com

Reputation Sellingt: 07976 684009w: www.reputation-selling.co.uk

MarketingcoJackie JarvisDirector

t: 01491 822333w: www.marketingco.co.uk

EMAIL MARKETING

ClientMailert: 01865 339406w: www.clientmailer.com

MANUFACTURING

LIGHTING

WILA Group Ltd AMike CollettChief Executive Officert: 01235 773500 w: www.wila.com

MEDICAL GOODS

Owen Mumford AJarl SevernDirector

t: 01993 812021 w: www.owenmumford.com

SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY

SCIENCE

Science Oxford ADominic McDonaldHead of Public Engagement and Business Networkst: 01865 728953 w: www.scienceoxford.com

Oxford Technologies ACharlotte DaubneyMarketing Executive

t: 01235 544871 w: www.oxfordtechnologies.co.uk

MARKETING & DESIGN

ADVERTISING

In Oxford Magazine PColin RosserChairman

t: 01865 742211w: www.inoxford.com

CORPORATE IDENTITY

Recognition Express AAndy OlejnikManaging Director

t: 01295 257611w: www.re-oxfordshire.co.uk/

DESIGN

Blink Design At: 01865 742211 w: www.on-the-blink.com

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B4 contacts


indiumonlinet: 01865 980630w: www.indiumonline.co.uk

PHOTOGRAPHY

Studio 8 PClark WisemanManaging Director

t: 01865 842525 w: www.studio-8.co.uk

Lyon Photographyt: 01865 481550 w: www.lyonphotography.co.uk

PRINTING

Advent Colour PMike AckermanSales Director

t: 01264 359359 w: www.advent-colour.co.uk

Blueprint Imaging AMartin MatthewsManaging Director

t: 01993 892360 w: www.blueprintimaging.com

The Oxford Duplication Centret: 01865 457000 w: www.oxfordduplicationcentre.co.uk

Culham PublicationServices PStuart MorrisStudio Managert: 01235 464904w: www.culhampublicationservices.com

OxUniPrint AIan WiltonManaging Directort: 01865 844918w: www.oxuniprint.co.uk

Abbey Presst: 01235 554555w: www.abbey-press.co.uk

Solutions in Inkt: 020 7917 2964w: www.solutionsinink.com

PUBLIC RELATIONS

The Buzzworks ASarah AireyProprietor

t: 01993 813848 w: www.thebuzzworks.co.uk

Adapt Communications ATracey JefferiesPartner

t: 0845 4591007 w: www.adapt.co

Syncro PR AClaire ThompsonPR Director

t: 01865 886344w: www.syncropr.com

Esplin PR ALouise EsplinFreelance PR Consultant

t: 07775 678237w: www.esplinpr.co.uk

GB PR AGail BuckleOwner

t: 01865 742940 w: www.gbprconsultancy.blogspot.com

Love Communicationt: 07887 775271w: www.lovecommunication.co.uk

Spriggs David AKaren DavidPartnert: 01865 512662w: www.spriggsdavid.co.uk

WEB PERFORMANCE

ObergineAJeremy Anderson Director

t: 01865 245777w: www.obergine.com

MEDIA

JACKfmIan WalkerGeneral Manager

t: 01865 315980 w: www.jackfm.co.uk

PROPERTY & BUILDING

ARCHITECTS

Riach Architects ADouglas RiachPrincipal

t: 01865 553772w: www.riacharchitects.com

John Hallam Associates AJohn HallamDirector

t: 01608 646969w: www.johnhallamassociates.co.uk

PROPERTY & CONSTRUCTION CONSULTANTS

Ridge and Partners ADavid WalkerPartner

t: 01993 815000w: www.ridge.co.uk

Kemp & Kemp ASteven SensecallPartner

t: 01865 240001w: wwww.kempandkemp.co.uk

Pink & Black PropertyConsultants AClaire MoloneyDirectort: 01865 515919w: www.pinkandblackproperty.com

BUILDERS MERCHANTS

Buildbase PDavid RobertsonCentral Regional Director

t: 01865 787763w: www.buildbase.co.uk

BUSINESS PARKS

Begbroke Science Park APeter DobsonManaging Director

t: 01865 283700 w: www.begbroke.ox.ac.uk

Grove Technology ParkRobert LamploughChairman

t: 01235 772992w: www.grovetechpark.com

Jennings AMike JenningsManaging Director

t: 01865 893303 w: www.jennings.co.uk

Oxford Innovation Ltd PJo WillettMarketing and Business Development Directort: 01865 261480w: www.oxin-centres.co.uk

Bloxham Mill Business Centre ARay AveryManaging Director

t: 01295 722800 w: www.bloxhammill.com


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B4 contacts


A1 Plumbing & Heatingt: 01865 327732w: www.a1ltd.co.uk

Windover Facilities AManagementEdward MacFarlaneCEOt: 01869 368095w: www.windoverfm.com

Next Generation Solart: 01993 813105w: www.nextgenerationsolar.co.uk

JCC Electricalt: 01869 570827w: www.jccelectrical.co.uk

rb Gast: 01865 200902w: www.rbgas.co.uk

Jill Treloggen Interiors AJill TreloggenOwnert: 01993 700515w: www.jtiuk.com

CS Electricalt: 01793 526003w: www.cs-elec.co.uk

Darke & Taylor Ltdt: 01865 290000w: www.darkeandtaylor.co.uk

R&R

ACCOMMODATION

Macdonald Randolph Hotel AMichael GrangeGeneral Manager

t: 0844 879 9132w: www.macdonaldhotels.co.uk

The Royal Oxford Hotel ATom Crampton-SmithOwnert: 01865 248432w: www.royaloxfordhotel.co.uk

Westwood Hotel ATony HealeyOwner

t: 01865 735408 w: www.westwoodhotel.co.uk

Fallowfields Hotel & RestaurantAnthony Lloyd AManaging Director

t: 01865 820416w: www.fallowfields.com

Conifers Guest Houset: 01865 763055w: www.conifersguesthouse.co.uk

COMMERCIAL PROPERTY AGENTS

VSL and Partners PRichard VenablesDirector

t: 01865 848488 w: www.vslandp.com

Carter Jonas PScott HarknessPartner

t: 01865 511444w: www.carterjonas.co.uk

Meeson Williams Ltdt: 01865 349011 w: www.meesonwilliams.com

Marriottst: 01865 316311w: www.marriottsoxford.co.uk

Lambert Smith Hamptont: 01865 200 244w: www.lsh.co.uk

DEVELOPMENT

The Trevor Osborne PProperty GroupTrevor OsborneChairmant: 01225 832302 w: www.topgroup.co.uk

ESTATE AGENTS

Breckon and Breckon PKeith StaceyManaging Director

t: 01865 244735w: www.breckon.co.uk

scottfraser ADavid BlythmanManaging Director Sales

t: 01865 759500 w: www.scottfraser.co.uk

scottfraser AChris RowntreeSales Director


Kemp & Kemp AGraham MacDonaldDirector

t: 01865 510000 w: www.kempandkemp.co.uk

frontdoorz ASonia KearnsCreative Director

t: 01865 339444 w: www.frontdoorz.com

Strutt & Parker AMiles CollisonPartner, Development Land & New Homes

t: 01865 366660 w: www.struttandparker.com

LETTING AGENTS

Breckon and Breckon PGreg BarnesDirector

t: 01865 201111 w: www.breckon.co.uk

Finders Keepers AFrank WebsterDirector

t: 01865 302308 w: www.finders.co.uk

scottfraser AAndrew GreenwoodGroup Managing Director


Lucy Properties AIan AshcroftManaging Director

t: 01865 559973w: www.lucyproperties.co.uk

North Oxford Property ServicesARobin SwailesDirector

t: 01865 311745w: www.nops.co.uk

College and County AMark Crampton-SmithOwner

t: 01865 722722w: www.collegeandcounty.biz

Kemp and Kempt: 01865 517584 w: www.kempandkemp.co.uk

Bluestone Letting and Managementt: 01869 327577w: www.bluestonelm.co.uk

The Letting Centret: 01865 759930w: www.thelettingcentre.com

PROPERTY SERVICES

Savvy Maintenance A& RenovationsStephen DunneDirectort: 01865 920020w: www.savvy-group.co.uk

Old Swan & Minster MillAAmanda Baker

t: 01993 862510w: www.oldswanandminstermill.com

Hawkwell House Hotel PTim SpittlesGeneral Manager

t: 01865 749988w: www.hawkwellhouse.co.uk

Hope House Woodstockt: 01993 815990w: www.hopehousewoodstock.co.uk

The Bear & Ragged Staff AMark GreenwoodLandlord

t: 01865 862329w: www.bearandraggedstaff.com

Eynsham Hallt: 01993 885238w: www.eynshamhall.com

RENTAL ACCOMMODATION

Lower Mill EstateRed PaxtonMarketing and Sales Director

t: 01285 869489w: www.lowermillestate.com

Sheepskint: 01865 764087 w: www.sheepskinlife.com

ARTISTIC AND CULTURAL

Oxford Philomusicat: 07775 904626w: www.oxfordphil.com

The Old Fire Station AJeremy SpaffordDirector of Arts

t: 01865 263980w: www.oldfirestation.org.uk

Modern Art Oxford AHannah EvansCommunications Manager

t: 01865 813826w: www.modernartoxford.org.uk

Rachel Duckerw: www.rachelducker.co.uk

Oxford Playhouset: 01865 305305 w: www.oxfordplayhouse.com

Creation Theatret: 01865 761393w: www.creationtheatre.co.uk

GALLERIES

Wiseman Gallery ASarah WisemanOwner

t: 01865 515123w: www.wisegal.com

CORPORATE ENTERTAINMENT

Sam Strange Magic ASam StrangeOwner

t: 01865 742211 w: www.samstrangemagic.co.uk

ENTERTAINMENT

Pegasus Theatre ABel CreweDevelopment Director

t: 01865 812160w: www.pegasustheatre.org.uk

FOOD & DRINK SUPPLIES

The Oxford Wine CompanyATed SandbachManaging Director

t: 01865 301144w: www.oxfordwine.co.uk

Roots of Oxford PMike Hirons Managing Director

t: 01865 792060w: www.rootsofoxford.com

First Class Products AThomas EllisOwner

t: 07919 133476w: www.firstclassproducts.biz

RESTAURANTS

Browns Restaurant PSimon StonehouseGeneral Manager

t: 01865 511995 w: www.browns-restaurants.co.uk

The Trout PChris LewisGeneral Manager

t: 01865 510930w: www.thetroutoxford.co.uk

The Red Lion PSimon ReevesGeneral Manager

t: 01865 726255w: www.redlionoxford.co.uk

4500 MIles From Delhi ANav KandolaOwner

t: 01865 244 922w: www.milesfromdelhi.com/oxford

Spice Lounge AAli AktarOwner

t: 01865 510071 w: www.spiceloungeoxford.co.uk

The Snooty Mehmaan AAsad AhmedDirector

t: 01367 242260 w: www.thesnootymehmaan.co.uk

Gee’s Restaurant & Bart: 01865 553 540w: www.gees-restaurant.co.uk

Old Parsonage Hotelt: 01865 310 210 w: www.oldparsonage-hotel.co.uk

Quod Brasserie & Bart: 01865 202505w: www.quod.co.uk

Head of the Rivert: 01865 721600w: www.headoftheriveroxford.co.uk

Cockadoot: 01865 341030w: www.cockadoo.co.uk

The Big Bangt: 01865 249413w: www.thebigbangrestaurants.co.uk

Pierre Victoiret: 01865 316616w: www.pierrevictoire.co.uk

The Oxford Bluet: 01865 460215w: www.theoxfordblue.com

The Quince Treet: 01491 639039w: www.thequincetree.com

Bayleaft: 01865 884401w: www.bayleafrestaurant.net

The Chequers at Burcott: 01865 407771w: www.thechequers-burcot.co.uk

The First Floor At: 01865 200203w: www.thefirstfloor-restaurant.com

Saffront: 01865 512211w: www.saffronrestaurantoxford.co.uk


B4 contactsThe Broad Facet: 01235 537775w: www.thebroadface.co.uk

Café Alohat: 01865 792696w: www.cafealoha.co.uk

COFFEE SHOPS

Java & Cot: 07736 950673w: www.javaandco.co.uk

RETAIL

SHOPPING

Blackwell’s PDavid PrescottManaging Director

t: 01865 382500w: www.blackwell.co.uk

University of Oxford Shop Pt: 01865 247414w: www.oushop.com

Bicester VillageHelen PetersSales & Marketing Manager - Tourism

t: 01869 323200w: www.bicestervillage.com

Beeline Bicycles ALuis TulipManager

t: 01865 246615w: www.beelinebicycles.co.uk

Casa Rose Boudoirt: 01865 510191w: www.casaroseoxford.com

Argenteust: 01865 840810w: www.argenteus.co.uk

Clements and Churcht: 01865 511212w: www.clementsandchurch.co.uk

Riche de Fleurst: 01993 869202w: www.richeflowers.com


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‡Model shown: Alfa Giulietta 1.4 TB 120 bhp Collezione Special Edition at £18,265 OTR†. Range of offi cial fuel consumption fi gures for the Alfa Giulietta range: Urban 26.2 – 53.3 mpg (10.8 – 5.3 I/100km); Extra Urban 48.7 – 76.3 mpg (5.8 – 3.7 I/100km); Combined 37.2 – 64.2 mpg (7.6 – 4.4 I/100km). CO2 emissions 177 – 114 g/km.‡Fuel consumption and CO2 figures are obtained for comparative purposes in accordance with EC directives/regulations and may not be representative of real-life driving conditions. Factors such as driving style, weather and road conditions may also have a significant effect on fuel consumption.*With Alfa Romeo Preferenza you have the option to return the vehicle and not pay the final payment, subject to the vehicle not having exceeded an agreed annual mileage (a charge of 6p per mile for exceeding 6,000 miles per annum in these examples) and being in good condition. Offers may be withdrawn or amended without prior notification. Offer subject to status, a guarantee and/or indemnity may be required. Terms and conditions apply. Alfa Romeo Financial Services, PO Box 4465, Slough SL1 0RW. Offer applies to vehicles registered between 1 July and 30 September 2013 on Alfa Giulietta models. Terms and conditions apply. ^The Alfa Giulietta 1.4 TB 120 bhp Collezione Special Edition is £500 more than the on the road price of the standard specification Alfa Giulietta 1.4 TB 120 bhp Turismo.^^£1,250 Alfa Romeo Deposit Contribution is available on a PCP, HP and Cash and is valid between 1 July and 30 September 2013 on selected Alfa Giulietta models. Participating dealers only. Terms and conditions apply and are subject to exclusions. Retails sales only.†On the road price is based on an Alfa Giulietta 1.4 TB 120 bhp Collezione Special Edition and includes 12 months road fund licence, vehicle first registration fee, delivery, number plates and VAT. Figures correct at time of printing. Offer subject to status. Terms and conditions apply. See our website for full details.

MOTOR VILLAGE OXFORD BANBURY ROAD, KIDLINGTON, OXFORDSHIRE OX5 1JHD 01865 376000 www.motorvillageoxfordalfaromeo.co.uk

ALFA GIULIETTA 1.4 TB 120 BHP COLLEZIONE SPECIAL EDITION REPRESENTATIVE EXAMPLE

On the Road Price† £18,265 Customer Deposit £2,249 Total Amount Payable by Customer £18,063

Monthly Payment* £209 Amount of Credit £14,766 Optional Final Payment (incl. £295 fee) £5,991

Alfa Deposit Contribution^^ £1,250 Duration of Contract 48 months Rate of Interest (Fixed) 1.85%

Representative 2.5% APR

W I T H O U T H E A R T W E W O U L D B E M E R E M A C H I N E S.

STANDOUT LOOKS. OUTSTANDING VALUE.

With specifi cation that includes a contrast roof and 17" Turbine alloys, you’d expect the Alfa Giulietta Collezione to cost a whole lot more. Yet somehow you only have to pay £500^ extra on the road price when compared to the entry level Turismo model.

Visit our website to see the additional specifi cation you get with this exceptional Special Edition. www.motorvillageoxfordalfaromeo.co.uk/collezione

42955_297x210_Q3 2013 Giulietta Collezione_Mag_Motor Village Oxford.indd 1 27/08/2013 11:46

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B4 Oxfordshire Issue 28