Business Matters 11

West Cheshire & North WalesChamber of Commerce

issue

11AUTUMN 2012

Employment and Skills EventsBusinesses are invited to attend employment and skills events 18

Taking advantage of opportunities presentedTaking advantage of opportunities presentedThe Big Interview... 22

Sunshine fi nally shone as guests charged their glasses 08Sunshine fi nally shone as guests charged their glasses 08Glasses Raised for the Chamber

issue

11AUTUMN 2012BM

businessmattersQuarterly Magazine of West Cheshire & North Wales Chamber of Commerce

BM MAGAZINE 11.indd 1 30/8/12 09:36:59

Am fwy o wybodaeth / For more information01978 293180glyndwr.ac.uk/servicesforbusinessdevelopyoursta�@glyndwr.ac.uk

We deliver the training you want

Rydym yn cyflenwi’r hyfforddiant sydd arnoch ei eisiau

our one day courses can start from £100 per person, per day.

Mae ein cyrsiau undydd yn cychwyn am £100 y pen, y dydd.

Bring the best out of your staff, improve efficiency and ultimately increase your bottom line with our tailored qualifications and training packages.

“

Cyrsiau Arloesol – rydym yn gweithio’n agos gyda busnesau i ddatblygu sgiliau a gwybodaeth sy’n berthnasol.

Hy�orddiant Teilwriedig – rydym yn datblygu pecynnau ar gyfer busnesau mawr a bach i gy�enwi yn union beth sydd arnoch ei angen, pan fo arnoch ei angen.

Hyblyg – rydym yn gwybod fod pob busnes yn wahanol. Gallwn weithio gyda chi i ddod o hyd i’r ateb delfrydol i gydfynd â’ch anghenion penodol mewn lleoliad sy’n gy�eus i chi.

Prisiau Cystadleuol – rydym wedi cadw ein �oedd yn llawer is na’r rhan fwyaf er mwyn sicrhau y gallwn helpu busnesau o bob maint.

Datblygwyd gyda chy�ogwyr – rydym eisoes yn cynorthwyo cannoedd o fusnesau.

Mwy na chyrsiau – Mae’n fwy na dim ond cwrs hy�orddi. Gallwn ddarparu arbenigwyr sy’n gallu dod i weithio’n uniongyrchol gyda’ch busnes i ddod o hyd i �ordd i gy�awni e�eithlonrwydd a gwella diwedd y gân.

Innovative courses – we work closely with businesses to develop skills and knowledge that’s relevant.

Tailored training – we develop packages for businesses large and small to deliver exactly what you need when you need it.

Flexible – we know every business is di�erent. We can work with you to �nd the perfect solution to �t your speci�c needs at a location convenient for you.

Competitive prices – our fees are fairer to ensure we can help your business whatever its size.

Developed with employers – we already help hundreds of businesses.

More than courses – It’s not just about training courses. We can provide experts to work directly with your business to �nd ways to make e�ciencies and improve your bottom line.

18 mis yn ôl daeth UPM Papermill, Shotton atom yn chwilio am hy�orddiant penodol i helpu i ddatblygu eu prentisiaid gan nad oedd unlle ar gael yn y DU. Cynulliais ein hysgolheigion medrus i gynllunio gradd sylfaen Gweithredu a Chynnal a Chadw Gweithfeydd. Ers hynny rydym wedi cy�enwi cyrsiau byrion ac wrthi’n cynllunio cynllun hy�orddi rheolwyr.“

Dewch â’r gorau allan o’ch staff, gwella effeithlonrwydd a chynyddu diwedd eich cân yn y pen draw gyda’n pecynnau hyfforddi a’n cymwysterau teilwriedig.

18 months ago UPM Papermill, Shotton came to us looking for speci�c training to help develop their apprentices as there was nowhere in the UK. We brought together our skilled academics to design a Plant Maintenance and Operations foundation degree. Since then we have delivered short courses and are designing a management training scheme.

BM MAGAZINE 11.indd 2 30/8/12 09:37:03

CONTENTS

University of ChesterRiverside Building, Castle DriveChester CH1 1SGTelephone 01244 669988 Fax 01244 669989

[email protected]

www.cepnwchamber.org.uk

Registered Company No. 173634

Contributing Editor

John Dean & Francis Griss

[email protected]

Production & Design

Distinctive Publishing

8th Floor, Aidan House, Sunderland Road, Gateshead NE8 3HU

Telephone 0845 884 2385

[email protected]

www.distinctivepublishing.co.uk

Advertising

Telephone 0845 887 3815

[email protected]

Disclaimer

Distinctive Publishing or West Cheshire & North Wales Chamber of Commerce cannot be held responsible for any inaccuracies that may occur, individual products or services advertised or late entries. No part of this publication may be reproduced or scanned without prior written permission of the publishers and West Cheshire & North Wales Chamber of Commerce.

University of Chester

BMbusinessmatters

04

08 15

06

22 33

004 INTRODUCTION005 NEWS006 NEWS008 NEWS009 NEWS010 NEWS013 NEWS014 SDRS UK015 INTERNATIONAL TRADE

022 THE BIG INTERVIEW026 EVANS HALSHAW FORD029 NEWS030 NEWS031 PATRON NEWS032 NEW MEMBERS033 NEWS034 20 QUESTIONS036 DHL

/ For more information01978 293180glyndwr.ac.uk/servicesforbusinessdevelopyoursta�@glyndwr.ac.uk

We deliver the training you want

Rydym yn cyflenwi’r hyfforddiant sydd arnoch ei eisiau

our one day courses can start from £100 per person, per day.

Mae ein cyrsiau undydd yn cychwyn am £100 y pen, y dydd.

Bring the best out of your staff, improve efficiency and ultimately increase your bottom line with our tailored qualifications and training packages.

“

Cyrsiau Arloesol – rydym yn gweithio’n agos gyda busnesau i ddatblygu sgiliau a gwybodaeth sy’n berthnasol.

Hy�orddiant Teilwriedig rydym yn datblygu pecynnau ar gyfer busnesau mawr a bach i gy�enwi yn union beth sydd arnoch ei angen, pan fo arnoch ei angen.

Hyblyg – rydym yn gwybod fod pob busnes yn wahanol. Gallwn weithio gyda chi i ddod o hyd i’r ateb delfrydol i gydfynd â’ch anghenion penodol mewn lleoliad sy’n gy�eus i chi.

Prisiau Cystadleuol – rydym wedi cadw ein �oedd yn llawer is na’r rhan fwyaf er mwyn sicrhau y gallwn helpu busnesau o bob maint.

Datblygwyd gyda chy�ogwyr – rydym eisoes yn cynorthwyo cannoedd o fusnesau.

Mwy na chyrsiau – Mae’n fwy na dim ond cwrs hy�orddi. Gallwn ddarparu arbenigwyr sy’n gallu dod i weithio’n uniongyrchol gyda’ch busnes i ddod o hyd i �ordd i gy�awni e�eithlonrwydd a gwella diwedd y gân.

Innovative courses – we work closely with businesses to develop skills and knowledge that’s relevant.

Tailored training – we develop packages for businesses large and small to deliver exactly what you need when you need it.

Flexible – we know every business is di�erent. We can work with you to �nd the perfect solution to �t your speci�c needs at a location convenient for you.

Competitive prices – our fees are fairer to ensure we can help your business whatever its size.

Developed with employers – we already help hundreds of businesses.

More than courses – It’s not just about training courses. We can provide experts to work directly with your business to �nd ways to make e�ciencies and improve your bottom line.

“

Dewch â’r gorau allan o’ch staff, gwella effeithlonrwydd a chynyddu diwedd eich cân yn y pen draw gyda’n pecynnau hyfforddi a’n cymwysterau teilwriedig.

18 months ago UPM Papermill, Shotton came to us looking for speci�c training to help develop their apprentices as there was nowhere in the UK. We brought together our skilled academics to design a Plant Maintenance and Operations foundation degree. Since then we have delivered short courses and are designing a management training scheme.

We can manage your Sea Freight (FCL & LCL), Air Freight & Road Haulage Shipments We are IATA DG accredited and can assist with Lett ers of Credit and Document Legalisati on

Please contact us for a quote (BIFA T&Cs apply)

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BM MAGAZINE 11.indd 3 30/8/12 09:37:34

4

n WELCOME

As I write this Britain is still in the grip of Olympic euphoria, NASA have just landed the Curiosity Rover on Mars and as usual, people are fi nding ways to enjoy our soggy summer. There’s a sense of optimism in the air… hey, if Andy Murray can beat Roger Federer in straight sets to win gold, surely things are looking up!

In truth one of the Olympics’ great impacts has been overlooked; the fact that for a brief period anyway, the words ‘economy’, ‘defi cit’, ‘hacking’ and ‘scandal’ haven’t been top of the agenda, giving people a break from the doom and gloom across the news for what has seemed an eternity.

Whether London 2012 will provide the boost to the economy analysts predicted… time will tell, but the mood of optimism in the air is a currency that can’t be bought easily.

Closer to home, the Chamber’s staff have been hard at work as usual. We closed the curtain on our 2011/2012 events season with our always special Summer Cocktail Party at the Eaton Estate, Chester. The evening was a wonderful get together of Chamber members from across the region, plus something called ‘sunshine’ put in an unexpected appearance.

Our Autumn season of events kicks off with the Business Social Network on September 6th. It’s the start of a packed programme taking you all the way through to the end of the year and includes our new export course; essential if you trade internationally or considering doing so. It also includes our glittering Annual Dinner on September 28th, so if you’ve not got your tickets to our showpiece event at the Grosvenor Hotel, Chester, contact the offi ce soon. You’ll fi nd a full programme for the coming months later in Business Matters, more is set to be added too so be sure to keep checking www.wcnwchamber.org.uk for updates.

The growth of the Chamber continues as our Board of Directors welcomed new faces during the summer. Myself and two others stepped up to the positions after three of our long standing directors stood down at our AGM. The meeting also marked the end of tenure of John Newton Jones as our Chairman; full details can be found later in the magazine, but the Chamber thanks its former directors for their commitment to further the organisation locally, regionally and nationally.

West Cheshire and North Wales Chamber of Commerce is a membership organisation and the most important people for

us is you. We exist to help our members further their businesses and aspirations, by putting you in

driving seat for networking, events and training opportunities. We want you to get the most out of us; whether that’s using us to promote you, support with export documentation or using the Chamber services like Westfi eld Health. If you or a colleague could benefi t, get in touch and let us see how we can help.

Finally, big changes are coming with Business Matters ahead of the next edition. Together with

the production team at Distinctive Publishing we’ve a facelift planned that are set to bring our

‘community’ to the fore. Watch this space.

Best wishes,

Colin Brew Executive Director

West Cheshire & North Wales Chamber of Commerce Magazine

Macclesfi eld Town FC have announced a new link with local company BiG Storage which will see the company becoming shirt sponsors for the Silkmen’s home and away kits for the new football season.

BiG Storage offer business and domestic storage rooms, workshops and offi ce space in Macclesfi eld, Handforth, Chester, Warrington, Lancaster and Morecambe and have been supportive of the Silkmen for many years.

As well as the advertising boards on either side of the Silk FM Stand, the club’s new shirt sponsors have also sponsored Roary the Lion and previously many match sponsorships.

Kevin Murphy from BiG Storage said: “We are a community business who want to support our community football club as they look to regain league status. I am both honoured and excited to have agreed for BiG Storage to become shirt sponsors of Macclesfi eld Town.

“As a privately owned north west based company, we consciously strive to support or local community, events and teams wherever possible and as long term supporters of the Silkmen with advertising and sponsorship, this felt like a natural progression.

“The period after a relegation can be tough for any club, but with things settling down on and off the pitch and what looks like a wave of exciting signings coming in, we think it promises to be a thrilling season at the Moss Rose; and one we are delighted to be involved in in this way. A quick return to the Football League would be a real lift for the town and we want to help the club achieve that goals, not least with the fi nancial commitment over the coming season.”

Macclesfi eld Town Chief Executive Jon Harris added: “BiG Storage have been valued partners of the football club for years, both as sponsors and with the club using their services, and we are very pleased to be able to announce their new status as offi cial shirt sponsors for the coming season.

“This link also fi ts in well with our commitment to the local area as a community club. BiG Storage have a high community profi le in the area through both sports sponsorship and charity work, and the Silkmen look forward to working with them on a range of activities over the next few months.

“We would like to thank them for stepping in at short notice after our previous sponsors opted not to continue with the partnership.

“BiG Storage is also getting a reputation as a ‘lucky’ sponsor” continued Kevin. “We have been proud to be sponsors at Warrington Wolves as they won the Challenge Cup in 2009, their fi rst silverware in 35 years, before going on to win it again in 2010 as well as the 2011 Super League Shield. We have also been major sponsors of Chester FC as they have begun to rise from the ashes following their reformation, and has seen them earning back to back promotions.”

BiG/Macc Set for Tasty Partnership

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NEWS n


Getting paid on time has long been a major problem for small businesses across the UK, as well as North Wales and West Cheshire.

In fact, aside from fi xing the economy as a whole, chasing late payers is generally the problem SMEs would try to solve in a heartbeat.

Whilst slow payment still ‘grinds the gears’ of Finance Managers everywhere, there are suggestions things are changing. Credit scoring agency Experian has indicated British businesses are paying up two thirds of a day less than in the fi rst quarter of 2011, whilst the Government’s ‘Mystery Shopper’ scheme is also fi ghting the good fi ght on behalf of the ‘little guy’.

Mystery Shopper allows the Cabinet Offi ce to investigate payment or procurement issues for SMEs and suggest improvements in the process. So far the scheme has helped businesses resolve problems with large organisations such as the NHS, HM Revenue and Customs and the Ministry of Defence.

Francis Maude MP, Minister for the Cabinet Offi ce and Paymaster General said: “Timely access to cash is critical for these businesses. It is already a condition of every Government contract that sub-contractors are paid within 30 days and we want to know where money is not passed down the supply chain, whatever the reason.

“Mystery Shopper lets us fi nd out about procurement problems and the cases published show that our actions are having real results for business.”

But what can businesses do to stem the tide on a practical level? Writing for Guardian Online on July 17th (http://bit.ly/NSqOMR), Guy

Clapperton said: “The fi rst thing to do in order to avoid late payment is of course to agree terms. Never assume that simply putting ’30 days met’ onto your invoice as your terms is automatically binding.”

Speaking to Ian Kay, Debt Recovery Manager at Napthens Solicitors in Lancashire, Clapperton said: “It’s safer, he says (Kay), to agree terms clearly in the fi rst place. And even if there isn’t a formal contract, don’t be fooled that there is no legally binding agreement in place. For some industries no paper contract is the norm; an email fi red off after a discussion, confi rming what is expected and when on both sides, will stand up as a contract if there’s a problem.”

The article goes on to suggest making sure you’re invoicing exactly the right person. Anil Stocker, cofounder of MarketInvoice is quoted highlighting the importance of this, as well as having a full and proper understanding of how big companies’ supplier/vendor portals work.

Sarah Jones, the Chamber’s Finance Manager said: “Late payment is an issue every business faces, including West Cheshire and North Wales Chamber of Commerce. We can see that things have improved, but as the results indicated by the Government and Experian have indicated, it’s a slow process.

“The key for us is ensuring invoices contain all the information any customer could possibly require, as well as staying in regular contact regarding any debts. There’s the obvious details such as ensuring tax calculations are correct, clear address and bank account information, but we also clearly state our payment terms. Our recommendation is to not give your customers an excuse to delay paying.”

Britain’s Businesses Say No!The British Chambers of Commerce (BCC) have released the results of a poll of nearly 2,000 businesses, which suggest that most (85%) do not want further EU integration.

The survey found that only 12% of fi rms want to leave the EU altogether. Almost half of businesses (47%) want to negotiate a looser relationship but with the UK remaining a member of the European Union. Only 9% of businesses want further integration.

Of those businesses that want to see a different relationship with Europe, over half (55%) see a referendum on EU membership as a medium-term issue, to be dealt with in the next one to fi ve years. Another 40% of those fi rms would like to see a referendum within the next 12 months.

John Longworth, Director General of the British Chambers of Commerce (BCC), said: “These results clearly show that British businesses do not want further integration with the EU. Although only a small proportion of fi rms hold extreme views on whether to leave or stay, nearly half of companies say they want a renegotiated, ‘looser’ membership within the European Union.

“Nearly four decades after Britain joined the European Community, it is astonishing that British fi rms seem to feel that the balance of advantage of EU membership is lessening. Businesses are pragmatic: they want to be part of a European single market, but only if it delivers real and open access for British goods and services.

“So the political establishment should tread carefully, and avoid rushed political decisions on the shape of Britain’s future relationship with the EU. Instead, both the government and the opposition should carefully consider how we can get a single market that works for business while ensuring that legislation from Brussels doesn’t damage our economic prospects.”

Are Payment Delays a Thing of the Past?

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MEMBERS NEWS n

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n MEMBERS NEWS

West Cheshire & North Wales Chamber of Commerce MagazineWest Cheshire & North Wales Chamber of Commerce Magazine

1. Embrace the Power of Plants: Researchers aren't entirely sure why, but indoor plants help reduce stress, so you should defi nitely consider adding some greenery to your space. Unless you've got a green thumb, be sure to choose plants that are fairly resilient.

2. Seek Natural Light: Natural light is also key. Ideal for protecting vision and keeping employees productive, it keeps the body's regulatory processes running smoothly. If you don't have windows, consider a skylight or holding regular brainstorms on a walk outside to get some crucial Vitamin D.

3. Get Stand Up Desks: Research has shown that sitting in front of a computer all day can have negative effects on your short and long term health, so companies everywhere are catching on to the appeal of stand-up desks.Most of Boundless’ team uses stand-up desks,

with many staff fi nding it makes them feel much more energetic than hunching in front of a computer all day. Standing up while working can also help prevent slouching and alleviate back problems.

4. Offer Healthy Snacks: The ever-present stress that offi ce life brings can sap resources quickly, so be sure to have snacks on hand to help the team keep their energy levels in check.

5. Everything in Moderation: It's also key not to be draconian, if you’ve had a particularly successful week/month offer staff a drink of wine or maybe beer last thing on a Friday to toast their success.

6. Embrace the Nap: Rested employees are far more productive and make better decisions than their sleep-deprived counterparts, so

resist scoffi ng at the idea of ‘sleeping on the job’. Many companies are catching on to the benefi ts of napping, so why not provide a couple of couches for break time naps.

7. Promote Frequent Breaks: Everyone's work style is different. With that said, we encourage all of our employees to take regular breaks to help them decompress and handle the endless stream of tasks. Stepping away from a diffi cult problem or project for a moment can bring some much needed clarity.

8. Find and Encourage Bike Storage: It's essential to offer bike storage for those who commute via bike, so set aside a separate closet to accommodate our growing team's rides. Biking to the offi ce has a number of environmental and health benefi ts, so it's great to encourage this practice whenever possible.

8 Steps to a Healthier Offi ce

Staff health and happiness are top of the agenda for ensuring a productive, positive, working environment. Online blog Boundless have suggested a number of steps to help you craft this for your own workplace.

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MEMBERS NEWS n

7West Cheshire & North Wales Chamber of Commerce MagazineWest Cheshire & North Wales Chamber of Commerce Magazine

So it is perhaps no surprise that the way we manage our healthcare is also changing as technology develops.

According to research commissioned by Best Doctors, people are increasingly turning to the internet for health related information, with 89% of survey respondents saying they would go-online following diagnosis by their doctor.

Another study, which surveyed consumers and healthcare executives in the US, found that one in three people were using social networking sites such as Facebook and Twitter for health related issues.

Keith Pollard, Managing Director of Intuition Communication, said that social media had altered the ‘patient-provider dynamic’: “The web has changed the power of patient voice, the involvement of patients in decision making and their treatment.”

So while we can ‘like’ our friends’ status updates and photographs on Facebook, increasing numbers are also locating and commenting on health services and treatments via the web, thanks to online social forums where people discuss everything from dentistry to diabetes.

Foresight Healthcare Plan provider Westfield Health recognises the importance of providing its policyholders with easy and immediate access to information and services.

The Foresight Plan, which is available to all members of West Cheshire and North Wales Chamber of Commerce, provides money back

towards the cost of everyday healthcare such as dental treatment, eye care, physiotherapy and diagnostic consultations, as well as providing fast access to scanning facilities and counselling services.

Employees can manage their account online by logging into the My Westfield area of Westfield Health’s website. They are able to view and amend their personal details, check benefit balances and view their claims history.

Additionally, Westfield offers a text messaging Service and iPhone app, where employees can check their benefit balances.

The Foresight Plan also includes an online Personal Health Risk Assessment, which gives employees an easy to understand and visual representation of their current health status.

Based on the unique Q-Score™ system, the assessment helps employees to understand how their lifestyle impacts on their health, as well as to identify steps they can take to improve their health and wellbeing and track their progress along the way.

Derived from the aggregated and anonymised results of employees’ Health Risk Assessments, a Company Health Report enables employers to identify any prevailing health risks affecting their workforce.

For more information about the Foresight Plan, visit www.westfieldhealth.com/foresight or call 0845 602 1629, available 8am to 6pm, Monday to Friday.

The Doctor Will Skype You NowThanks to advances in technology, we can now get up to the minute news on the move, order our shopping and bank online, or video-call friends and family overseas.

Chamber Backing for Apprenticeship SchemeWest Cheshire and North Wales Chamber of Commerce is backing Welsh Government’s plan to create 70 new engineering and construction apprentices in North West Wales.

Business Minister Edwina Hart announced nearly £900,000 of funding to support Cwmni Prentis Menai, Grwp Llandrillo Menai’s apprentice employment agency which focuses on finding opportunities for skilled young people in the renewable energy sector.

The plan will see 40 new apprentices in engineering and 30 in construction based at Coleg Menai, joining the 23 recruited by the agency in the last academic year.

Richard Thomas, Chamber Vice Chair for North Wales said: “North Wales has a growing reputation in the sustainable energy sector thanks to a growing list of projects in the region, making it vital to have skilled young workers on hand ready to take up the challenge.

“At a time when young people are finding it hard to get jobs and launch themselves on their chosen career path, it’s extremely heartening to see initiatives like this be supported by a number of organisations.

“As the major organisation supporting business across North Wales, the Chamber would like to add it’s backing to the project and we hope this will encourage more employers across our region to consider taking on an apprentice.”

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West Cheshire & North Wales Chamber of Commerce Magazine8

n NEWS


Welcome and Goodbye as Chamber Marks Changes at the Top

The Chamber said hello and waved goodbye to board members new and old at its annual general meeting in June.

Long serving Chairman John Newton Jones, vice chairman Peter Hawkins, board members John Pitchford and Nigel Bruce stood down from their roles after many combined years of dedicated service. John Newton Jones will remain on the board and now steps into the

role of ‘Past Chairman’, whilst continuing to fulfi l the responsibilities of Chamber Chair until a successor is appointed.

New faces joining the board are, Robin Dillamore, Managing Director of Dillamore and Co, Sally Wightman, a Partner at Hill Dickinson and the Chamber’s Executive Director Colin Brew.

Colin said: “It’s with thanks we say goodbye to our departing board members Peter, John Pitchford and Nigel, as well as John Newton Jones as he moves into his new role as Past Chairman. Their contributions to the Chamber during their tenure has been great and from a personal point of view it’s been fantastic learning experience.

“We now look forward to welcoming our new board members; all of whom come with distinctive skills and from distinctive backgrounds which will be invaluable in helping support the Chamber and helping it grow to new levels of success.”

Social ShoppersS-commerce sales to more than double to £3.3 billion within the next fi ve years. The next generation of ‘social shopper’ is expected to emerge as a force to be reckoned with by 2021, with 41% of the UK’s consumer population expected to be infl uenced by or using social media to make a purchase, according to new research from Barclays.

Amongst 25 to 34 year olds this fi gure is much higher, with nearly half (45%) already engaging in s-commerce. By 2021, the fi gure will have jumped to 73%.

Dewi Davies, Head of Corporate Banking for Barclays in Chester and North Wales, said: “Shopping has always been a social activity right back to the days when people bartered rather than paid for goods. It wasn’t until the arrival of eCommerce that the social aspect of shopping was removed. For most consumers the social element is fundamental; shopping is a leisure activity in the British psyche so being able to reintroduce this aspect into the online purchasing process is a powerful tool for retailers.”

Around 70% of online shoppers are already active users of social platforms but the number of social shoppers is set to grow further as social micro-blogging websites, such as Facebook, Twitter and Pinterest increasingly blur the boundaries between retail channels in the same way mobile technology has done.

Where social media is really coming in to its own is as an infl uencer and multi-channel integrator rather than a direct sales channel. Users are receptive to new ideas, suggestions and recommendations when on social networking sites but are not in an active state of mind to purchase. Translated into revenues, in the next fi ve years infl uenced sales are expected to more than double from £1.4b to £3.3b. This contrasts with direct sales which are expected to rise from £210m to £300m.

The retailers enjoying the greatest uplift in sales as a result of social media’s increasing infl uence are fashion, footwear, music, fi lm and grocers.

Dewi said: “When someone you know and trusts makes a recommendation, it’s extremely powerful and we’ve seen that the social shopper isn’t afraid to express online how much they want, love or dislike a product or service.

“This in turn creates a feedback loop on a product or brand. As more people post reviews, more people read them and, in turn, they give their own feedback which is picked up by a new group of consumers. Retailers should be exploring ways to tap into these communities in order to create more personalised shopping experiences.”

If you would like to fi nd out how Barclays can help your business, please visit www.barclays.com/corporatebanking or contact Marc Omar, Business Development Director, Chester and North Wales on 07775 546560.

Glasses Raised for the Chamber

Around 100 Chamber members celebrated in style in the stunning surrounds of the Long Room at the Eaton Estate, Chester, home of the Chamber’s President, His Grace the Duke of Westminster.

The yearly social occasion gave guests the opportunity to enjoy fi ne champagne, exquisite canapés and socialise with friends, colleagues

and business acquaintances, as well as learn about the history of the building from Eileen Simpson, Eaton Estate Archivist.

Richard Thomas, Chamber Vice Chairman said: “Both our guests and Chamber representatives enjoyed a marvellous evening in the splendid setting of the Eaton Estate. Whilst our annual cocktail party is a social occasion, we know our guests love the opportunity to soak up the history and splendour of the location.

“Thank you to everyone who attended, as well as of course our hosts for a fabulous evening and we’ll look forward to seeing them again in the future.”

Full details of Chamber events and training, including our annual dinner on September 28th at The Chester Grosvenor hotel can be found at www.wcnwchamber.org.uk/events

Sunshine fi nally shone as guests charged their glasses for West Cheshire and North Wales Chamber of Commerce at the organisation’s annual cocktail party in July.

John Newton Jones

BM MAGAZINE 11.indd 8 30/8/12 09:37:55


NEWS n

Anna DuffyPartner at DTM Legal

Where charity fundraisers are concerned, it can be hard for smaller organisations to make impact alongside the bigger names.

With that in mind, Orion Party Architects teamed up with Chester Voluntary Action as part of their SkillShare initiative, and gave local voluntary and community groups in Chester a taster session in ‘How To Make More Money From Your Fundraising Event’.

SkillShare is a way for local businesses and professionals to support their local community by donating skills to help voluntary and community organisations. SkillShare has been developed by Chester Voluntary Action in association with the West Cheshire and North Wales Chamber of Commerce, the Lord Lieutenant of Cheshire David Briggs, Cheshire West and Chester Council, Ellis Whittam, and thebestofchester. The project is being coordinated in West Cheshire by Joanne Walton at Chester Voluntary Action.

Joanne said: “SkillShare is a great way for businesses and professionals to support their local community. This type of support is on the wishlist of many groups in West Cheshire, because volunteers drawn from the corporate world bring skills and expertise that otherwise may be beyond their reach.”

Creative Directors Karl Doran and Charlotte Winby from Orion Party Architects said: “Orion is a very niche company but at the same time we’re committed to playing our part where Corporate Social Responsibility is concerned. We fi rst heard about SkillShare as a result of the Lord Lieutenant David Briggs putting out a call to businesses at a networking event in Chester. The SkillShare initiative is something that really appeals to us, which is why we made an approach to Joanne and offered to share our knowledge in this sector.

“Small voluntary and community groups have got to think big if they want to tap in to the money that can be made from fundraising events. You have to make your product attractive to those people who are well used to attending fundraising events, and Orion are able to offer support and guidance in raising the level of your game. It can be a daunting process but our advice is to think big and minimise risk. Whatever event you choose must give people value for money; if it’s going to become a regular date in the charity calendar then it must be memorable, imaginative, different and fun. Hopefully you’ll get event onto the social calendar as a must get ticket every year.”

If you are in business or a local professional and would like to become involved by using your skills to help a local voluntary or community group in West Cheshire, please email Joanne Walton at Chester Voluntary Action: [email protected] or telephone 01244 316587.

Orion Party Architects Help Small Charities Think Big!

Leisure Leagues are the largest provider of small sided soccer in the UK. We organise competitive but friendly leagues at over three hundred locations in

this country and abroad.

If you would like more information on this new concept, please contact Steve Hogan on 07877-316936 or 0845-604-8138/email [email protected] for more details.Or check out our website www.leisureleagues.net where you can apply on-line.

Nearly all our leagues are played outdoors on big, big, all weather pitches, which mean you very rarely get games called off because of the weather (snow excepted!). We provide fully qualifi ed referees, match balls and even bibs if you haven’t got your own kit, all you have to do is turn up and play!! Our fully interactive website allows players to download pictures and team profi les for all team members as well as being able to check your progress up or down the league table!With time being precious for most people, our games are normally thirty minutes long, which means you even have time for a quick pint afterwards.! We currently play twice a week on Sunday and Wednesday evenings at Cheshire County Sports in Upton which has superb facilities including an on-site pavilion where you can enjoy post match drinks or snacks with Sky TV included. Furthermore, we will be launching an exclusive ‘Chamber ‘ league on Thursday evenings strictly for West Cheshire & North Wales Chamber of Commerce members only. This will provide an excellent opportunity for members own teams to play against their peer groups and possibly ‘network’ afterwards?

BM MAGAZINE 11.indd 9 30/8/12 09:37:56

n NEWS

10 West Cheshire & North Wales Chamber of Commerce Magazine

Export Training Now Available

The course is made up of six modules which you can complete as many of as you require. Each candidate must demonstrate knowledge of the subject which will be marked by external examiners. Successful candidates will receive a British Chambers of Commerce accredited certificate, whilst completing all modules merits a special award.

Each module will last one day starting at 9.30am, taking place at a venue in the Wrexham area. For full details of up to date times and locations, visit www.wcnwchamber.org.uk/training

1. Introduction to Exporting Be able to prepare and export quotation

Be able to organise the export office

Understand export order processing

Overview of export documentation and terms of sale.

2. Export Documentation and INCOTERMSUnderstand how to produce the necessary documentation for an international shipment

Identify where to go for sources of international infromation and assistance

Identify modes of transport and their relative advantages/disadvantages

Understand why INCOTERMS were created and their purpose

Understand the definitions of INCOTERMS rules

Identify the parties involved in INCOTERMS, plus their roles and responsibilities

Understand the benefits of INCOTERMS

Identify where to go for help and information on INCOTERMS.

3. Methods of PaymentIdentify the different methods of payment used in international trade

Identify and understand the necessary documentation for payment

Be able to comply with the requirements of different methods of payment.

4. Letters of Credit, November 7thDescribe the main parties in an L/C transaction and their roles

Describe the process and methods relating to international payments

Prepare and present relevant documents in accordance with the terms of the L/C to ensure payment

Describe how to request an amendment to the L/C, understanding of costs and how to deal with discrepant documents.

5. Import Procedures, November 21stDemonstrate an understanding of import documentation and procedures

Identify where to go for sources of international information and assistance

Comply with customs procedures.

Course Costs:Chamber members: £190.00 + VAT per person or £855 + VAT if booking all five (includes 10% discount)

Non members: £225.00 + VAT per person or £1012.50 + VAT if booking all five (includes 10% discount)

To book your place on this essential course for exporters, email [email protected] or call 01244 669988.

As part of West Cheshire and North Wales Chamber of Commerce’s unrivalled international trade service, we’re delighted to be able to offer all businesses a brand new nationally accredited export qualification (level two VQ) recognised by the British Chambers of Commerce.


BM MAGAZINE 11.indd 10 30/8/12 09:38:01


Crëwyd swydd Comisiynydd y Gymraeg gan Fesur y Gymraeg (Cymru) 2011.

Prif nod y Comisiynydd yw hybu a hwyluso defnyddio’r Gymraeg. Gwneir hyn drwy ddwyn sylw i’r ffaith bod statws swyddogol i’r Gymraeg yng Nghymru a thrwy osod Safonau ar sefydliadau.

Bydd Safonau’n egluro sut mae disgwyl i sefydliadau drin a defnyddio’r Gymraeg mewn ffordd glir a chyson.

Mae’r Mesur yn enwi rhai cwmnïau a sectorau yn y byd busnes a ddylai gydymffurfi o â Safonau. Fe all busnes fod yn agored i gydymffurfi o â Safonau os yw’n gweithredu ar sail contract i gorff cyhoeddus neu os yw’n derbyn dros £400,000 o arian cyhoeddus.

Os gall cwmni ddangos ei fod yn gallu ymgyrraedd â’r Safonau, naill ai trwy ddefnyddio staff presennol, uwch-sgilio staff neu

trwy ddefnyddio staff ac adnoddau dros dro neu asiantaeth allanol wrth ymgeisio am dendrau, fe all fod ganddo fantais fasnachol yn y gystadleuaeth yn erbyn cwmnïau eraill.

Ar ôl mynd trwy broses statudol, fe fydd y Safonau’n cael eu gosod ar y set gyntaf o gyrff cyhoeddus yn ystod haf 2013.

Am ragor o wybodaeth am rôl y Comisiynydd ewch icomisiynyddygymraeg.org ffonio 0845 6033 221 neu [email protected].

The main aim of the Welsh Language Commissioner, established under the Welsh Language (Wales) Measure 2011, is to promote and facilitate the use of the Welsh language. This will entail raising awareness of the offi cial status of the Welsh language in Wales and imposing Standards on organizations.

Standards will explain, in a clear and consistent manner, how organizations are expected to provide services through the medium of Welsh.

The Measure names some private companies and sectors which must comply with Standards. Businesses may be open to comply with Standards if they are operating under contract to a public body or if they receive over £400,000 of public money.

If a company can demonstrate that it is able to operate the Standards, either by using existing staff, up-skilling staff or by using temporary staff and resources, it could have a commercial

advantage over other companies when applying for tenders.

After going through the statutory process, Standards will be imposed on the fi rst set of public bodies in the summer of 2013.

For more information about the role of the Commissioner visit welshlanguagecommissioner.org or call 0845 6033 221 or send an e-mail [email protected]

WELSH LANGUAGE COMMISSIONER n

Y Gymraeg a’r byd busnes: gofynion newydd o dan y gyfraith

The Welsh language and business: new legal requirements

11West Cheshire & North Wales Chamber of Commerce Magazine

BM MAGAZINE 11.indd 11 30/8/12 09:38:16


Occupational Health Services

RPS offer specialist Occupational Health Services, tailored around the needs of your business. With a number of options available, including physician, nurse and technician led services, RPS can help you stay within budget without compromising quality of service. Services can be provided on-site or using mobile screening units to reduce the time employees are away from work.

RPS Group has extensive experience working across all industries. For information regarding our services, please click on the links below:

• Mobile Screening• Sickness Absence Management• Pre-Employment Assessment• Workplace Vaccination• Executive Health Screening

RPS are one of the fi rst companies to be accredited to the Safe Effective Quality Occupational Health Services (SEQOHS) standards, launched by the faculty of occupational medicine. The scheme defi nes the standards and minimum requirements that apply to occupational health services.

For more information regarding all RPS servicesplease visit our website www.rpsgroup.com/occupationalhealth or call one of our offi ces on

Warrington offi ce: 01925 846333 Ellsmere Port: 01513 [email protected]

08000 858384

BM MAGAZINE 11.indd 12 30/8/12 09:38:28

NEWS n


September 6th8.00amThe Business Social NetworkRiverside Innovation Centre, Chester

September 19th9.30amExport Training: Introduction to ExportingLlyndir Hall, Wrexham (TBC)

September 28th7.00pmAnnual DinnerThe Grosvenor Hotel, Chester

October 3rd9.30amExport Training: Export Documentation and INCOTERMSLlyndir Hall, Wrexham (TBC)

October 4th4.00pmThe Business Social NetworkRiverside Innovation Centre, Chester

October 10th7.30amWelsh Language Commissioner ConsultationOptic Glyndwr, St Asaph

October 15thTBCMold Business Forum ExhibitionBeaufort Park Hotel, Mold

October 17th9.30amExport Training: Methods of PaymentLlyndir Hall, Wrexham (TBC)

October 24thTBCBank of England Monetary Policy Committee Northop Hall Hotel, Chester

November 1st8.00amThe Business Social NetworkRiverside Innovation Centre, Chester

November 7th9.30amExport Training: Letters of CreditLlyndir Hall, Wrexham (TBC)

November 21st9.30amExport Training: Import ProceduresLlyndir Hall, Wrexham (TBC)

December 6th4.00pmThe Business Social NetworkRiverside Innovation Centre, Chester

Training and Events Schedule, Autumn 2012

For full booking and information details www.wcnwchamber.org.uk/training

The Chester office of leading law firm Hill Dickinson LLP has welcomed commercial employment law specialist Kerstie Skeaping to its team.

Kerstie, who is seconding into the Chester office on a regular basis, will further enhance Hill Dickinson’s commercial client offering and will work with the existing employment and corporate teams to grow the firm’s client base in the region.

Kerstie will be advising on large scale collective redundancies, reorganisations, all areas of discrimination law and equal pay, unfair dismissal, executive terminations, maternity provisions and on the transfer of undertakings. She also brings with her a wealth of tribunal advocacy experience, having represented clients in employment tribunals throughout the

UK, and is particularly interested in contentious employment work.

Kerstie said: “I am very pleased to be a part of Hill Dickinson’s market leading team in Chester. I took my Law Society exams at the Chester College of Law and, having specialised in employment law for 14 years I am looking forward to using the knowledge I have acquired to support clients in the region.”

Robin Jones, Head of Hill Dickinson’s Chester office said: “Kerstie will enable us to further exploit business development opportunities in the regional marketplace. Her experience and expertise will perfectly complement our existing team of specialist corporate and commercial lawyers. We already have a strong employment offering in place, headed up by partner Andrew Gibson. Kerstie will now work alongside

Andrew, bolstering our commercial employment presence and providing clients with heavyweight expertise, at a local level. She will also liaise closely with our head of corporate, Sally Wightman, to ensure we can offer clients a comprehensive range of legal advice.”

Commercial Employment Law Expert Enhances Hill Dickinson Chester Team

BM MAGAZINE 11.indd 13 30/8/12 09:38:29


n SDRS UK


Remote Database AdministrationDatabases rule in business. They have become the centre of modern IT infrastructure as they store physical data, business rules and executable business logic. And databases now control information central to the understanding of the business, the data’s meaning and methods to secure, control and track all related software and data.

Small to medium business owners have traditionally faced many issues and challenges on how best to get critical information into the hands of key decision makers. Information is often stored on many different systems, across many areas of the organisation. It’s often inaccessible to those who can use it best. And when reports on the data are distributed to the decision-makers, it’s out of date as its last month’s or last quarter’s.

Then there’s the cost. Large multi-nationals and PLCs can afford the expensive license fees attached to many of the systems needed to solve this problem. And they can pay the salary of the analysts who’ll digest the information. Many SMEs have been unable to compete.

Until now. Smaller companies are now turning to Hosted Business Intelligence systems as a cheaper, but equally effective, alternative. They work by collecting data from all its sources, and map it on to the hosted system meaning it’s easily accessible. It’s also regularly automatically updated. And what’s great about Hosted Business Intelligence systems is that they only distribute relevant information to selected users.

Most Hosted Business Intelligence systems have three-components: dashboards, reporting capability and analytics.

Dashboards let users see how areas are performing so they can react quickly. The data’s usually provided in graphical-form so it’s easier to interpret than many other platforms, and keeps users aware of key-objectives within their area.

Not only is reporting through Hosted Business Intelligence systems possible; it’s also better. They come with hundreds of tabular reports so users can analyse masses of data. And there’s the facility to customise the reports to suit any business.

Analytics are invaluable as they answer any question within business. These can take the form of reports, forecasting tools and calculations. Plus, they can be manipulated as the user sees fi t.

Hosted Business Intelligence solutions can be accessed with the click of a mouse. They’re web based so all the business needs is an Internet connection and a secure website.

Maintaining and administering databases is tricky and time-consuming. In fact, it can be a full-time role for someone within the business that can command a high-salary. So many SMEs are turning to the more attractive, cost-effective option of outsourcing it.

Remote Database Administrators can deliver the complete range of database administration services, from maintaining and monitoring to troubleshooting and backing up the data.

And business owners love the fact that it’s like having an onsite database administrator but without the additional expenses that brings, like sick-pay, pensions and paid holidays. The Remote Database Administrator in turn does not have to travel to the business’s offi ce and provides their own IT equipment.

SDRS UK Ltd offer bespoke Hosted Business Intelligence solutions to any business. Many off-the-shelf packages are expensive and don’t do exactly what you want them to. We come and spend time at your business, learning how it works and what you want. Then we go away and build it for you. But we don’t stop there – we remain in touch to answer any questions you might have, and upgrade your system when you need to.

Extended ServicesWhen it comes to software development SDRS-UK Ltd can produce new applications, enhance your legacy systems or act as extra resource to help you deliver you IT projects. Whether you want a new application developed, rescue or enhance an existing application, or have an idea for a New Application that you want developing and taking to market we can help.

So talk to us today about getting your own individually made Hosted Business Intelligence solution for your business.

Email: [email protected]: www.sdrsuk.comhttp://sdrs-uk.cloudapp.net/Phone: 01244 940 835

Remote Database Administration& Managed BusinessIntelligence

Hosted Business Intelligence: What are the benefi ts to you as an SME owner?

BM MAGAZINE 11.indd 14 30/8/12 09:38:31

INTERNATIONAL TRADE n


The Pedra de Ferro mining project in north east Brazil is expected to award contracts worth in excess of £3 billion ($5 billion). They are particularly keen to award contracts that provide eco-effi cient technologies and clean development mechanisms.

The project offers a range of opportunities to British businesses. These include mine infrastructure, construction, transport infrastructure (such as road and rail building and the construction of shipping and container terminals) and new port development.

Apart from this opportunity, UKTI estimates that the World Cup and Olympic Games in Brazil will generate business opportunities worth up £17 billion ($27billion) for British companies. The opportunities include construction (such as stadia, infrastructure and commercial premises), environmental services and transportation.

UKTI Sectors Group Managing Director, Edward Oakden, who is heavily involved in the Pedra de Ferro project said: “British businesses in Brazil already have an impressive track record of delivering large scale construction programmes around the world to time and to budget, including the main venues and infrastructure for the Olympic Games in London, where construction was completed a year ahead of the event. As such, British companies are well placed to win a share of the exciting Pedra de Ferro project.”

Talking about his experience of joining a UKTI trade mission to Brazil, Tim Whiteman, CEO & Managing Director from International Powered Access Federation (IPAF) said: “Their 2011 mission to Brazil helped IPAF make new contacts and understand the size of a market we had just started working in. The briefi ngs we received were fi rst class and particularly helped us to understand the opportunities and

problems facing us in delivering our training programmes to the Brazilian market. Sessions on banking, legal responsibilities and the political system were especially helpful. As a result the company now has members and approved training centres in Brazil and are about to recruit further.”

Businesses who would like to fi nd out more about the Pedra de Ferro project should contact John Strang at UKTI by emailing [email protected].

UKTI has also produced two reports on the opportunities around the 2014 World Cup and 2016 Olympics: ‘Game On – Progress in Brazil’s preparations for the 2014 FIFA World Cup’ and ‘Brazil’s Moment to Shine – Opportunities for UK business in the Rio 2016 Olympic & Paralympic Games’. Businesses who would like copies of the reports can obtain them by e-mailing [email protected].

UK Trade & Investment (UKTI) is urging UK companies to bid for more than £20 billion ($32 billion) of infrastructure projects in Brazil. The contracts relate to the Pedra de Ferro mining project, the 2014 World Cup and 2016 Olympics.

Companies Urged to Compete for £20 billion Brazilian Projects


BM MAGAZINE 11.indd 15 30/8/12 09:38:34

Cynllunio olyniaeth a grymuso cyflogeion Succession planning and employee empowerment

Cyfleoedd ar gyfer perchnogaeth gan gyflogeion er mwyn olyniaeth busnes Dewch i gwrdd ag arbenigwyr Canolfan Cydweithredol Cymru am sesiwn un-i-un rad ac am ddim a di-ymrwymiad i archwilio manteision posib opsiynau perchenogaeth gan gyflogeion, dulliau cymell i brynu cyfranddaliadau a chynllunio olyniaeth sy’n seiliedig ar gyflogeion. Employee ownership opportunities for business succession Meet the Wales Co-operative Centre’s employee ownership specialists for a one-to-one session to explore the potential benefits of employee ownership options, share incentive approaches and employee based succession planning.

25 Medi Y Ganolfan Rheolaeth Bangor

25 September Bangor Management Centre

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I gael rhagor o wybodaeth neu i archebu eich lle yn awr ewch i:

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To find out more or book your place now visit:

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BM MAGAZINE 11.indd 16 30/8/12 09:38:41

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BM MAGAZINE 11.indd 17 30/8/12 09:38:59


n NEWS


What does your image say about your business?

Businesses can either take a free stand to promote your vacancies and meet with potential job seekers or Cheshire West and Chester Council (CWaC) would be delighted to promote vacancies on your behalf.

If you would like to find out more about this event and how we can support your company to find future employees, please contact [email protected]

This event is supported by Job Centre Plus, Blue Orchid, West Cheshire and North Wales Chamber of Commerce and CWaC, who are hosting the event at Northwich Memorial Hall.

The events target anyone who is currently unemployed, including recent graduates and students and those looking for potential career opportunities. There will be a mix of skills development for job seekers on offer, including CV workshops, confidence building, and interview skills and managing your online

identity; alongside a range of employment opportunities, particularly targeting retail and hospitality vacancies in the run up to the festive season.

This event relies on having 'live' job vacancies and business input; CWaC would be delighted to explore this with you, if you would like to discuss how you can get involved please don’t hesitate to contact the council on [email protected] or by calling 01244 515561

Employment and Skills Events

Businesses are invited to attend two employment and skills events on Thursday, September 13th at Northwich Memorial Hall and on Wednesday, September 26th at the Riverside Innovation Centre, Chester.

BM MAGAZINE 11.indd 18 30/8/12 09:39:01


NEWS n


Companies Urged to Enter Queen’s Award for EnterpriseWelsh companies are being encouraged by Business Minister Edwina Hart to ‘go for gold’ and enter the Queen’s Award for Enterprise; the UK’s most prestigious business awards and an acknowledged mark of excellence.

The Queen’s Awards for Enterprise are for outstanding achievement by UK businesses in the categories of Innovation, International Trade and Sustainable Development, while the Queen’s Award for Enterprise Promotion is awarded to individuals.

Mrs Hart said: “We have very many highly innovative and enterprising businesses in Wales that have the potential to win one of these prestigious awards and I would encourage more companies to take up the challenge and enter the 2013 competition to join the ranks of previous winners from Wales.

“The Awards recognise and reward success and can bring real benefits to companies that are making an outstanding contributing to the enterprise culture in Wales. The Awards are

highly regarded by industry, are internationally recognised and an excellent and valuable marketing tool for businesses, helping to raise their profile and help boost business.

“Even those companies that fail to gain an Award can still benefit from the process and the feedback which can provide them with useful benchmarking information to further develop their businesses.”

Mrs Hart recently met a number of 2012 Award winners from Wales who added their unique perspective to the development of the Innovation Strategy for Wales.

The closing date for entries for the 2013 Awards is 28 September 2012, to enter visit www.businesslink.gov.uk/queensawards.

Eurozone Crisis Tops Business Worry ListEconomic developments in the Eurozone is top of the list of issues business owners believe will affect their firm this year and next, according to a poll of almost 2,000 firms by the British Chambers of Commerce (BCC). Over half (52%) of firms believe that the Eurozone crisis will have a significant influence on their business in 2012 and 2013, followed closely by cuts to UK public sector budgets (46% of businesses), and access to finance (42% of businesses).

The EU remains the favoured export destination for UK firms. The majority (78%) of businesses believe that it is relatively easy to do business with other countries in Europe, however it only has a small lead on the USA & Canada; 62% of firms believe it is easy to trade with these countries, followed closely by Australia and New Zealand (60% of firms). At the other end of the spectrum, 44% of businesses find it difficult to trade with Brazil, 52% with Central and South America (excluding Brazil). Almost two-thirds of firms (63%) find it difficult to trade with Russia.

The survey also found over one third of firms (35%) believe that the disadvantages of rules and regulations imposed by Brussels outweigh the benefits of being part of the Single Market.

The results follow findings released showing that British businesses are not in favour of further EU integration. The survey found that only 12% of firms want to leave the EU altogether. Almost half of businesses (47%) want to negotiate a looser relationship but with the UK remaining a member of the European Union. Only 9% of businesses want further integration.

Commenting on the findings, John Longworth, Director General of the British Chambers of Commerce (BCC), said: “British firms seem to feel that the balance of advantage of EU membership is lessening. That one third of firms think the negatives associated with membership in the form of regulation outweigh the benefits of the Single Market is surprising. It demonstrates that more must be done to make the Single Market work better for businesses looking to export. This includes the creation of a digital single market, making a reality of the internal market for energy, and deepening the single market in services.

“While UK companies find it easier to trade with other countries in Europe, the lead is not as strong as it should be, and it is an indictment of the Single Market that it is almost as easy to trade with countries as far as away as the US, Canada, Australia and New Zealand. The UK government must help to deliver a Single Market that works, and make efforts to stem the tide of regulation from Brussels that prevent business from growing.”

BM MAGAZINE 11.indd 19 30/8/12 09:39:01


n WREXHAM COUNTY BOROUGH COUNCIL

During the opening ceremony the Minister cut a banner over one of the newly constructed bridges on the road and unveiled a plaque that will be set in slate at the Northern Access of the road. The road was then opened to a cavalcade of over 60 vehicles associated with the Industrial Estate who made their way over the bridge and into the Estate.

The £30.3 million road provides new and improved north and south access to the Estate, one of the largest in Europe, and has been entirely funded by the Welsh Government.

The road brings with it fantastic new opportunities for investment in Wrexham which has easy road access to the North West and is within a two hour drive of one third of the Uk’s population and half of its manufacturing industry. Businesses on Wrexham Industrial Estate now have a high quality dual carriageway link from the Northerm access point to all major motorways serving the UK.Wrexham Industrial Estate covers approximately 550 hectares and in geographical terms is one of the largest Industrial Estates of its type in Europe. It accommodates around 320 businesses, employing over 7000 staff, and creates employment for Wrexham , North East Wales and the North West.

Wrexham Council appointed Birse Civils to undertake the construction work and their successful partnership has seen the road fi nished on time and on budget.

The Minister said:

With improved links the Industrial Estate will provide a welcome boost to the local economy and improve the quality of life for residents near the industrial estate by taking heavy traffi c away from their homes.”

“This new access road refl ects our commitment to further improving the transport infrastructure across Wales and will play a key part in improving the competitiveness of businesses located on the Estate.”

In the opening Ceremony Cllr Ian Roberts, Mayor of Wrexham, said:

“This is a historic day for Wrexham Industrial Estate, its businesses and workers, who have all waited so patiently for this opening. I would like to take this opportunity to thank the Welsh Government for their commitment to the area in ensuring the money was made available for this essential link to the Estate.”

Paul Bird, Commercial Director, Birse Civils North said:

“We are delighted to deliver this project ahead of schedule. The team worked tirelessly to deliver the project with minimal disruption to the local community and the roads they leave behind will no doubt be of great benefi t to Wrexham and the wider community.”

Wrexham’s new industrial estate access road was offi cially earlier this month by Carl Sargeant, AM, Minister with responsibility for Transport.

Wrexham’s Road to Success

WREXHAM COUNTY BOROUGH COUNCIL n


Wrexham’s Road to Success

BM MAGAZINE 11.indd 20 30/8/12 09:39:06

Wrexham Industrial Estate – The Location of Choice

First Investments, a regionally important property owner with over 500,000 square feet of industrial, retail and offi ce space on the Wrexham Industrial Estate have already seen an increase in demand.

Marcus Brenand – Manager First Investments

‘Wrexham Industrial Estate has seen an infl uxin commercial property uptake over the last 6months. First Investments Ltd have seen theirvoid levels drop dramatically from 26% to 8%.

We believe Wrexham Industrial Estate offers avariety of business space for various sectors.

The recent opening of the new access roadhas been a valuable asset to the estate andlocal surroundings. Making the estate moreaccessible and attractive to many businesses’

First Investments 0845 5006161 The Wrexham industrial Estate has over500 units and a number of developmentsites with variety of owners. For informationon availability of Property / Land, pleasecontact our experienced business team for anAVAILABLE PROPERTY LIST

Call 01978 667000 or email [email protected]


WREXHAM COUNTY BOROUGH COUNCIL n


Road Opening - Cavalcade

BM MAGAZINE 11.indd 21 30/8/12 09:44:18

22

n THE BIG INTERVIEW

BIGTHE

INTERVIEW


Dewi DaviesArea Corporate Director for Barclays in Chester & North Wales

Barclays has recently appointed Dewi Davies as Area Corporate Director for Chester & North Wales, leading a team of relationship directors and locally-based support managers, assisting businesses with turnover above £5m and providing access to industry specialists.

BM MAGAZINE 11.indd 22 30/8/12 09:44:29

THE BIG INTERVIEW n


Recent years have been spent in the Corporate Finance arena, putting deals together, looking after larger corporates and helping clients grow successfully and realise their strategic aspirations. He has been actively involved in a number of large transactions, management buyouts and acquisitions across the region.

Dewi lives in North Wales, is married and has two boys aged 11 and 12 years who are avid footballers. He was formerly a keen sportsman/runner and represented his country in two different sports - Judo and Fly Fishing.

He was also awarded the Institute of Bankers McKenna Award for the highest Banking Diploma results in the UK.

Barclays is proud to have recently become a patron of The West Cheshire & North Wales Chamber of Commerce, which has been supporting and representing the local business community across the region since 1921. The bank looks to continue to work closely with the board of directors in supporting local businesses over the years ahead.

Q What do you see as the biggest challenges in your new role?Whilst the current economic climate remains very challenging, our team is committed to lending money, looking after deposits safely and helping businesses grow and achieve their strategic aspirations.

I’m really excited about returning nearer my roots, being part of the local team and focusing upon helping the region grow, whilst looking after an area which is really close to my heart.

With demand for debt weaker than previous years we need to provide local businesses with confi dence to invest and grow, despite the tough external environment. Meeting with clients to carefully discuss strategy and gain further insight of their business is a real passion of mine and ensures that we provide customers with innovative and bespoke solutions which add value and make a real difference to their business.

Q We often hear that the banks are not lending enough to businesses, how do you answer that criticism?Taking the economic climate into consideration and acknowledging that some industry sectors may be more challenging than others, at the end of the day, we continue to lend and provide appropriate support to businesses.

In 2011 Barclays increased gross new UK lending to businesses to £43.6bn, including £14.7bn to SMEs: exceeding the government Project Merlin target by 13%.

As mentioned, gaining a full strategic insight and understanding of a business is key and can help ensure that we provide innovative and bespoke solutions and deal structures which add value and make a real difference to businesses. This tailored approach has proved benefi cial.

Q What more can banks do to help businesses?Bank initiatives, such as the recent Barclays Cashback Finance Scheme (in conjunction with the National Loan Guarantee Scheme) for SMEs, have been extremely successful in providing support to businesses.

In addition to providing outstanding customer service, we look to continue to support business growth locally via our team of local support managers and provide innovative tailored solutions, adding value in conjunction with our group partners.

Between now and 2015, Barclays is committed to supporting up to 120,000 SMEs through business seminars, tools and training.

Q In the current atmosphere, how much risk is the bank prepared to take to support businesses?Each situation is judged on its own merits, taking into consideration matters including economic, industry, business and fi nancial risk factors. The bank’s capital, liquidity and funding position remains strong, with an ability to continue to support the region.

Q How do you see the next 12 months for the banking sector?Whilst economic challenges remain, including lack of consumer confi dence / demand, dynamics will hopefully improve over the next couple of years as consumer and business confi dence grows.

Base rate is currently at an unprecedented low level and continues to aid businesses.

Whilst a careful strategic business approach may be appropriate/required as the economy grows out of recession, some businesses will benefi t from taking advantage of opportunities presented.

Taking advantage of opportunities presentedDewi, being a native of North Wales, is a fl uent Welsh speaker and joins with about 30 years banking experience, having had the privilege of undertaking a number of senior roles across Wales and the North West.

BM MAGAZINE 11.indd 23 30/8/12 09:44:47

BM MAGAZINE 11.indd 24 30/8/12 09:44:49

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BM MAGAZINE 11.indd 25 30/8/12 09:44:52

O�cial fuel consumption figures in mpg (l/100km): Ford Car range: urban 56.5 - 55.4 (5.0-5.1), extra urban 76.4 - 72.44 (3.7-3.9), combined 67.3 - 65.7 (4.2-4.3). O�cial CO2 emission 109.0-114.0g/km. Subject to status. Guarantees/indemnities may be required. Example excludes VAT and is based on a non-maintained agreement. Profile 3+36, payment in advance of £1194 (Focus) & £1350 (Mondeo). monthly rentals plus VAT, followed by 36 monthly rentals plus VAT, with a mileage of 10,000 miles per annum. Vehicles must be returned in good condition and within agreed mileage, otherwise further charges will be incurred. Prices correct at the time of going to print and are subject to change without notice. Subject to availability while stocks last. Not available with any other promotion. Ford Contract Hire is provided by ALD Automotive Ltd trading as Ford Lease, Oakwood Park, Lodge Causeway, Fishponds, Bristol, BS16 3JA.

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Untitled - Page: 1 2012-08-09 14:51:36 +0100

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[email protected] fuel consumption figures in mpg (l/100km): Ford Car range: urban 56.5 - 55.4 (5.0-5.1), extra urban 76.4 - 72.44 (3.7-3.9), combined 67.3 - 65.7 (4.2-4.3). Official CO2 emission 109.0-114.0g/km. Subject to status. Guarantees/indemnities may be required. Example excludes VAT and is based on a nonmaintained agreement. Profile 3+36, payment in advance of £1194 (Focus) & £1350 (Mondeo). monthly rentals plus VAT, followed by 36 monthly rentals plus VAT, with a mileage of 10,000 miles per annum. Vehicles must be returned in good condition and within agreed mileage, other-wise further charges will be incurred. Prices correct at the time of going to print and are subject to change without notice. Subject to availability while stocks last. Not available with any other promotion. Ford Contract Hire is provided by ALD Automotive Ltd trading as Ford Lease, Oakwood Park, Lodge Causeway, Fishponds, Bristol, BS16 3JA.


BM MAGAZINE 11.indd 26 30/8/12 09:45:09









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NEWS n

Jeff Hardman, founder and owner of Cheshire-based Barnhill Marketing, has been appointed to the coaching panel of the GrowthAccelerator scheme, launched by business secretary Vince Cable MP earlier this year.

GrowthAccelerator will support up to 26,000 companies with potential for rapid and sustainable growth, creating 55,000 high-value jobs in the process. Experts will work with companies to identify barriers to growth and ways to overcome them.

Funded by the Department for Business Innovations and Skills (BIS),GrowthAccelerator is being delivered by private sector experts from a consortium led by Grant Thornton.

Jeff, who gained more than 20 years’ industry experience with multinational companies before launching Barnhill in 1999, will be coaching managing directors and management teams after linking up with Winning Pitch, one of eight local delivery partners on the project.

Jeff said: “It is an honour to be able to use my years of experience coaching managing directors and senior executives to help the growth creators of tomorrow. GrowthAccelerator is a fantastic project to be involved in, and I’m sure the businesses taking part will get plenty out of it.

“Thanks to the scheme I’m already working with a global chemicals distributor based in Stockport and a rapidly expanding construction company in Manchester, with a view to improving their management systems and business development skills. Programmes such as this really demonstrate the power of partnership working between government and the private sector.”

Broxton-based Barnhill Marketing deals with a range of clients, from micro-businesses to corporates.

The company works predominantly with UK-based SMEs ranging in turnover from £500,000 to £50m, with an emphasis on manufacturing and industrial firms. Current clients include Manchester-based Cleansing Services Group (CSG), Beta Group based in Bacup, East Lancashire and Jackson Fire & Security in Mold, North Wales.

Jeff, a committee member on the Cheshire branch of the Institute of Directors (IoD), has several years’ experience coaching managing directors and business owners. He has acted as a consultant on several funded projects, such as the Business Link Coaching for High Growth programme in 2011 and since 2006, the Welsh Government’s pan-Wales International Trade Development programme.

As well as offering advice on doing business in overseas markets, Jeff deals with all aspects of personal development regarding leadership and management skills ,as well as wider issues relating to business improvement.

Prior to launching Barnhill he gained experience in sales and marketing, working at director level both in the UK and internationally for major manufacturing companies including Solvay Interox and Norwest Holst. As exports area manager for US-based steel products manufacturer H H Robertson, he was responsible for selling to the overseas specification market in London and managing the company’s Saudi Arabia sales office in Riyadh.

For more information on GrowthAccelerator and to find out if your business could be eligible for support, visit www.growthaccelerator.com

Former Sales Director Coaches Wealth Creators of TomorrowA former international sales director who went on to launch his own business is helping the country’s brightest companies realise their ambitions through a £200m government-backed programme. Catering

Franchise for Top Chef SimonRenowned chef Simon Hadley is aiming to take corporate and business catering to the next level after opening a Jasper’s franchise in Chester.

Jasper’s provides hot and cold delivered catering to local businesses for lunches, meetings, training courses, conferences, networking meetings and other corporate events.

Simon trained at the Dorchester and Le Manoir aux Quat’Saisons and has worked in Michelin-starred restaurants in Italy, France and England. After working in his village pub in Oxford as a youngster, Simon left school and headed straight for London where he clinched a role at the Dorchester and trained as an apprentice for three years.

He then made a major step and moved to Raymond Blanc’s renowned restaurant and cookery school Le Manoir aux Quat’Saisons, where he worked for three years as Commis Chef and Chef di Partie. With a desire to further his ambitions and travel to Europe he looked to Raymond to help secure him a job working in the three Michelin-starred Le Crocodile in Strasbourg. Simon has also worked as Sous Chef at Hambleton Hall, taught Italian ladies how to cook pasta in Milan and worked in food development for Kerry Foods.

Simon said: “I’ve had a fantastic career in food but I am at the stage of my life now where I want to work for myself. Working in Michelin-starred kitchens you focus on creating immaculate food for individuals. But whether I am creating a £40 dish for one person or an executive lunch for 100 business people, I want to provide the best possible food and service experience.”

For more information visit www.jaspersonline.co.uk or email [email protected]

BM MAGAZINE 11.indd 29 30/8/12 09:45:34

30

n NEWS


The report, which draws on a survey of over a thousand exporters and an analysis of export documentation (required of all companies exporting goods outside the EU) found that 40% of firms stated that exchange rates were a concern, showing the Eurozone crisis’ impact in terms of UK competitiveness and the buoyancy of one of its biggest markets.

A net balance of just +21% of firms felt profitability would increase in the coming 12 months, down from +30% the previous quarter, with falling profitability expectations across all firm sizes.

These results were in spite of a summer of celebrations and high hopes for the economic impact of the summer on exporters. They are in stark contrast to research conducted in 2010 by DHL, which found that 56% of businesses anticipated that the focus on London over this period will create greater global demand for British goods.

However, the latest Trade Confidence Index showed an increase in the number of firms reporting an increase in export orders, up from +39% in Q1 to +49% in Q2.

Phil Couchman, CEO of DHL Express UK and Ireland said: "SMEs’ concerns around exchange rates and profitability highlight that there is still more to be done in terms of support for British businesses who are venturing into overseas markets.

“But recent export figures are strong, and there is reason to believe that the ‘super summer’; a once in a lifetime opportunity that will put British businesses firmly in the spotlight could present a fantastic opportunity to make inroads internationally.

“To sustain momentum, businesses large and small should start thinking now about how best to serve this international audience once the events are over, by initiating an export programme for their goods and services to reach that target market. The worries highlighted in the report show that businesses should seek advice from professionals with a local presence who can provide specialist insight.”

John Longworth, Director General of the British Chambers of Commerce said: “Business concerns about the Eurozone have increased in the last quarter, and it’s no wonder. In the last

few months we have seen two General Elections in Greece, a bailout of Spanish lender Bankia, and sovereign borrowing costs creeping up to dangerously high levels yet again.

“But there is a silver lining. Businesses have seen an increase in export orders in the last quarter, despite concerns about the Eurozone. While the EU is our main trading partner, UK businesses are looking to trade in new markets. According to the latest figures from the Office for National Statistics, more than half of British exports in the three months to May went to countries outside the EU, an increase of 13% on the same quarter last year.

“These results are encouraging, but we need to find ways to make our businesses think global, and provide them with the support they need to break into new markets. Businesses are still concerned with being able to access the appropriate finance to help them to break into new markets. Export growth is vital, not only to help to boost the UK economy, but to show the world that Britain remains a major global competitor and a nation to do business with.”

Read the full Trade Confidence Index at bit.ly/METY0h.

Summer of Celebrations Fail to Quash Eurozone Worries for BusinessesThe fifth DHL/BCC Trade Confidence Index, a measure of the UK’s exporting health, reveals that expectations for the ‘super summer’ of 2012 has been overshadowed by the Eurozone crisis and concerns around currency fluctuations.

Efficiency savings together with advice from Groundwork Cheshire has seen Safevent Systems Ltd save £65,000 annually.

The organisation is the manufacturing arm of the Warrington-based Britplas Group, which specialises in the manufacture and installation of all types of commercial glazing.

As an SME with high energy and fuel costs, Britplas was keen to keep its costs down and reduce its environmental impact, to help retain a competitive edge. The business is receiving on-going support from a specialist adviser at Groundwork Cheshire, with funding from the North West’s ENWORKS programme.

It has already implemented a number of actions from its initial site review, which have together generated annually recurring savings of £23,400 and 74 tonnes of carbon dioxide equivalent (CO2e). Work is now underway to tackle the rest of the identified improvements, which could save a further £42,100 and 162 tonnes of CO2e a year.

Britplas runs a fleet of 20 vans that each covers about 30,000 miles a year on average. Their high fuel costs have been addressed by organising fuel efficient driving training for all drivers, improving vehicle maintenance practices and monitoring diesel consumption through dashboard satnav.

As a result, the company has made annually recurring savings of £15,000 and 28 tonnes of CO2e, from an outlay of just £500. A further £2,900 and 14 tonnes of CO2e per year have been saved by implementing routine monitoring procedures for utilities on site and identifying key areas where consumption can be reduced.

Plastic curtains and partitions have also been fitted over four large, roller shutter doors, to prevent heat loss from the factory floor. These have generated annual savings of £2,300 on heating bills, with a payback period of just two years, and saved 13 tonnes of CO2e per year.

Meanwhile, a 24-hour timer on the office boiler has been replaced with a more flexible, seven-day timer that allows the heating to be turned off at weekends and overnight. For just £250 this has saved over £2,000 on annual gas bills.

The next phase of the efficiency drive is to look at installing motion and light level sensors, to make sure that artificial lighting is only used when necessary. This could save £3,800 and over 19 tonnes of CO2e a year, at minimal cost. A new radiant heating system in the warehouse could also save £8,700 and 50 tonnes of CO2e annually, and replacing a 15-year-old boiler with a more energy-efficient model would save £1,500 and eight tonnes of CO2e per year, after an initial five-year payback.

SMEs of less than 250 employees and a turn over not exceeding £45m may be entitled to the same free support to discover potential efficiency savings.

Contact Groundwork Cheshire on 01606 723175 or email [email protected]

Warrington Factory Saves Thousands Annually

BM MAGAZINE 11.indd 30 30/8/12 09:45:35

PATRONS NEWS n


Claims at a Cost The Government has announced its intention to charge claimants fees to bring and continue claims in the employment tribunal. The fees, to be introduced in summer 2013, will be charged in two stages; the first at the issue of the claim and the second prior to the hearing. The amounts charged will depend on the complexity of the claim brought and there will also be a fee structure for multiple claims. It is intended that those on low incomes will not have to pay the fees.

The proposed fee structure has two levels, depending on the complexity of the claim. For straightforward claims for defined sums, such as unauthorised deductions from wages or redundancy payments (level 1 claims), a fee of £160 will be payable when the claim is lodged and a further £230 when the hearing begins. For claims involving more complex issues including unfair dismissal, discrimination and equal pay (level 2 claims) a fee of £250 will be payable when the claim is lodged and a further £950 when the hearing begins.

Employment Appeal Tribunal (EAT) FeesEAT will attract a fee of £400 when the appeal is lodged and a hearing fee of £1200.

Multiple ClaimsThere is also a fee structure for multiple claims. Claims involving between two and 10 claimants will be charged twice the applicable single fee. Claims involving 11 to 200 claimants will be charged four times the applicable single fee and claims involving over 200 claimants will be charged six times the applicable single fee.

Judicial MediationMediation will also attract a charge at £600.

Recouping FeesTribunals will be given a discretionary power to order the losing party to pay any costs that the successful party has incurred in the way of fees.

The ImpactCharging fees is a radical departure from the existing system, which is currently free of charge. The Government’s intention is to encourage parties to resolve claims informally through mediation or conciliation and to ensure that the tribunal is viewed as the last resort. Employers will hope that the introduction of fees will reduce the number of speculative claims submitted and encourage more responsible behaviour by claimants.

The introduction of fees has been criticised by some as a barrier to justice to low paid employees or to those who have just lost their job. The Government has confirmed that those on low incomes will be able to seek exemption from the fees under the same system used in the civil courts. Further consultation on this particular issue is expected later this year.

If you would like further advice on this issue or any other employment matter, please contact Kerstie by emailing [email protected].

Employment Tribunal Changes AheadAs of 2013, employment tribunal claims will be subject to fees. Kerstie Skeaping, expert Employment Lawyer at Hill Dickinson LLP advises businesses to be aware of the forthcoming changes and sets out the proposed fee structure.

Encouraging Job Figures Provide New Hope for the EconomyIn the three months to June 2012, unemployment fell by 46,000 compared with the previous quarter, while employment increased by 201,000

Youth unemployment fell by 4,000 over the quarter, but remains above 1m

The number of people working part time because they could not find a full time job reached a new record high.

Commenting on the labour market figures for June published today by the ONS, David Kern, Chief Economist at the British Chambers of Commerce (BCC), said: “The latest job market figures are encouraging, and act as a welcome contrast to recent pessimism about the UK economy. Employment is up, unemployment is down, and the rate of inactivity is at its lowest since 1991.

“But there are still areas of concern. Youth unemployment is unacceptably high, and too many people are still being forced to work part-time as they cannot find a full-time job. While unemployment is likely to increase over the next 12-18 months, the peak may now be lower than the 2.9m figure we predicted in our last forecast.

“Overall, these figures show positive trends in the UK labour market and are difficult to reconcile with other ONS figures, which show three consecutive GDP declines since the end of 2011. If both sets of figures are correct, they imply large declines in productivity, which seems implausible. It is my belief that this could lead to revisions to the GDP statistics in due course.

“Regardless, it is clear is that growth in the UK economy is still too weak. Problems in the Eurozone and tough austerity measures will continue to exert downward pressures on domestic demand. The government must build on these positive job figures by considering policies that help businesses deliver growth. This would include more deregulation, an increase in infrastructure spending, and crucially, the creation of a state-backed business bank.”

BM MAGAZINE 11.indd 31 30/8/12 09:45:36


n NEW MEMBERS


EP Networks3 Llwyn Bedw Gwerrnaffield CH7 SGA 0800 1588065 [email protected] Mr Eirian Price

Evans Halshaw Ford Bretton Chester Road Bretton CHESTER CH4 0DS 01244 660681 [email protected] Mr Scott Burns

South Quay Shellfish Unit 5 Fish Dock Turkeyshore Road HOLYHEAD LL65 2DE 01407 762444 Mr Jason Thomas

Go Active Lifesytle 8 Overton Drive FRODSHAM WA6 6BD 07877 316936 0845 6048138 [email protected] Mr Steve Hogan

Abode Chester Grosvenor Road CHESTER CH1 2DJ 01244 347000 [email protected] Mr Christophe Hesbert

YMCA Training 25 -27 Lower Bridge Street CHESTER CH1 1RS 01244 311879 [email protected] Ms Karen Roberts

Philip E. Owen Austerlands Business Centre Telford Road MENAI BRIDGE LL59 5DR 01248 800400 [email protected] Mr Philip Owen

Dynodrive Unit 11 Cameron Court Winwick Quay WARRINGTON WA2 8RE 01925 634725 [email protected] Ms Nikki Bell

Prism Total IT Solutions St James’s House 5 John Bradshaw Court CONGLETON CW12 1LB 01260 296695 [email protected] Mr David Collins-Lafferty

Mangoletsi (Holdings) Limited London Road Allostock KNUTSFORD WA16 9NS 01565 724035 [email protected] Mr Stuart Buckle

Hart & Co Soughton House 2 Nicholas Street Mews CHESTER CH1 2NS 01244 403547 [email protected] Mr Ian Hart

Ambitious Change Limited 4 Rosslyn Close Hawden DEESIDE CH5 3PG 07717 856551 [email protected] Ms Michelle Fellowes

Taylor Wimpey UK Ltd Taylor Wimpey House Warrington Road Birchwood WARRINGTON WA3 6XU 01925 849574 [email protected] Mr Andrew Thorley

Phoenix Paediatric Equipment Consultants Ltd 5 Stone Row Chester Road MOLD CH7 4JW 07900 341904 [email protected] Mr Mike Naughton

Pot Factory Limited 155 Middlewich Road SANDBACH CW11 1JD 07963515065 [email protected] Mr Ryan Connolly

New MembersFor more information on chamber membership contact 01244 669988 or visit www.cepnwchamber.org.uk

Welcome to our new members

BM MAGAZINE 11.indd 32 30/8/12 09:45:37

NEWS n


Whilst the data from the Offi ce for National Statistics (ONS) found sickness absence had fallen by 4% in the UK, the greatest number of working days lost to ill health were due to MSD. Conditions including back pain, neck and upper limb problems accounted for more than a quarter of all work days lost; the equivalent of 35 million days.

But how can businesses tackle this common cause of absence?The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) advises employers that some MSD may need medical treatment of one type or another, explaining ‘this may involve physiotherapy; either through the NHS or by an arrangement with a local private service that can often provide treatments almost immediately. Many organisations have found this cost effective as the cost of the healthcare is offset by the speedy return of the employee to work, resulting in signifi cant savings made on sick pay, re-training, employing a replacement and the other costs of sickness absence’.

Westfi eld Health’s Chamber Primary Health Plan (available to all members of the Chamber) includes a therapies benefi t, which

enables employees to claim back the cost of physiotherapy, osteopathy and chiropractic treatment, as well as acupuncture and homeopathy, up to set limits.

Gwen Moran, Contract Manager at Collabro Ltd in Aberdeen, has used the therapies benefi t to manage a back problem, she said: “It’s great to be able to go to a physiotherapist straight away, without an NHS waiting list and be able to claim the costs back quickly.

“Although my back isn’t so painful that I need to take time off work, its peace of mind to know that if I did, the therapies benefi t could speed up my recovery; helping me to get back to work quicker.”

Fellow back pain sufferer Martin Vines, of Martinshelpdesk.com in Bristol, utilised the Chamber Plan to claim for chiropractic treatment. He said: “The plan particularly helped me when I suffered from lower back pain and I was able to claim back the cost of a chiropractor appointment; it was quick and easy.”

For more information about the Chamber Plan, visit www.westfi eldhealth.com/chamber or call 0845 602 1629, available 8am to 6pm, Monday to Friday.

Keep on Moving: Tackling Musculoskeletal DisordersFigures show musculoskeletal disorders (MSD) are still proving a pain in the neck for employers and employees alike.

The Cheshire and Warrington Local Enterprise Partnership (LEP), together with the National Apprenticeship Service (NAS), Marketing Cheshire and a number of local colleges and learning providers are embarking on a new initiative to increase the number of apprenticeships in Cheshire and Warrington and are challenging local businesses to be part of it.

The Cheshire and Warrington ‘300 in 100 Apprenticeship Challenge’ was launched in July with the aim of local companies recruiting 300 new apprentices in 100 days. The National Apprenticeship Service is the driving force behind the new campaign and is delighted to have the support of the LEP as well as the three local authorities. The challenge to local businesses is to generate as many new apprenticeship opportunities as possible, for both new recruits and existing staff, over the 100 days between Friday 27th July and Sunday 4th November 2012.

Dr Pete Waterman OBE launched the Apprenticeship Challenge, he said:“Apprenticeships can help meet the skills needs of local employers. Better trained employees are better and happier employees.”

The Government’s strong ambitions for apprenticeships continue to ensure that even more employers can benefi t. The programme attracts over £1.4bn in public funding each year and the current £1500 Apprenticeship Grant for Employers (age 16 to 24) is an additional incentive to encourage new employers to get involved.

All apprentices receive training for a specifi c job designed around the needs of the employer and gain recognised qualifi cations. There are over 250 different types of apprenticeships available offering 1,300 job roles. The government meet the full cost of training for 16 to18 year old apprentices. If the apprentice is aged 19 or over, employers receive up to 50% of the cost of training.

Sue Price, Director for the National Apprenticeship Service in the North said: "We are delighted to be working in partnership with the Cheshire and Warrington LEP on this challenging new campaign. It will provide some much needed new opportunities for local young people and by agreeing to take on an apprentice, employers are not only supporting their local community, but they are also making a good

business decision to grow their own talented workforce.

"Apprenticeships are a common cause for employers; you don’t come across many people who say they don’t believe in them. I would therefore urge all employers to look at their current and future recruitment needs to see if there is somewhere they could take on an apprentice."

The new campaign is intended to enhance an existing initiative that was launched by the Cheshire and Warrington LEP at the beginning of April 2012 to help deliver one of its key priorities for 2012; ‘The Apprenticeship Promise’. The promise is being managed by Marketing Cheshire and commits businesses to sign to one or more of ten elements, which include a commitment to recruit new apprentices and other supportive activities such as participating in events to publicise apprenticeships.

Businesses interested in the new campaign should email [email protected] or call James Williams, Employer Account Manager, National Apprenticeship Service on 07785 243278.

300 in 100 Apprenticeship Challenge Launched

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n 20 QUESTIONS

Q1) What brings you to the industry?I’ve always been fascinated by technology and really enjoy exploring new things that technology can do. Right now mobile technology is very new and it’s incredibly exciting to be part of the growth of the relatively new market.

Q2) What advice would you give anybody wanting to get into this industry?You need to enjoy what you do! If you enjoy working with mobile apps then your enthusiasm will shine through and opportunities will naturally follow.

Q3) What is the most important thing you look for in a new recruit?Passion and enthusiasm; at Footsqueek the team we’re building needs to vibrant, dynamic and full of new ideas.

Q4) If you could employ anybody from the world of business who would it be and why?Margaret Mountford, trusted aide of Lord Sugar. She’s very experienced and isn’t afraid to say it how it is.

Q5) As a business person, describe your three main qualities?Creativity, enthusiasm and dedication to getting the job done.

Q6) And your worst quality?I try to be all things to all people.

Q7) What has been your most satisfying moment in business?Leaving my full time job.

Q8) What do you always carry with you to work?My iPad; my life is literally stored on that device.

Q9) Would you say you live for work or work to live?I love my job so I do live for work but I always make time for the important things in life.

Q10) Who is the most famous person you have ever met – what were they like?I met Greg James when some mates and I were the subject of ‘Feet Up Friday’; really nice bloke.

Q11) Who in your view is your industry’s role model and why?It has to be Steve Jobs… we wouldn’t have the iPhone if it weren’t for his vision and I’d also highly recommend his biography, it’s a stunning read.

Q12) What is your biggest achievement?From a business perspective setting up Footsqueek, from a personal perspective financing a gap year in New Zealand.

Q13) What was your first job and the amount in your first pay packet?I was a children’s entertainer when I was younger and travelled the north-east performing magic and ventriloquism as Stephy Marvel with Mickey the Monkey. It was even quite well paid.

Q14) If you could chose to work for any company in the world which would it be and why?I work for the only company I really want to work for already; it’s called Footsqueek and its part of who I am. I do admire the work of companies such as Apple, Google, and Microsoft and think we can all learn from their triumphs and failures.

Q15) If you won the lottery would you retire?No, I enjoy my job to much.

Q16) Do you make time for lunch every day?I try to but it usually doesn’t happen.

Q17) What is a normal day for you?Usually spent in the office working on our latest innovation.

Q18) If you could work in a completely different field what would it be?I’d definitely be in musical theatre… problem is I can’t sing!

Q19) If you could turn the clock back what would you have changed about your business career?I’d have started my own business sooner.

Q20) What hobbies do you have?I spend a lot of time using my computer but I also keep marine fish and am in training to climb Kilimanjaro in 2013 (#kilibuzz on Twitter).

20 QuestionsName: Steve Westgarth

Job Title: Managing Director

Company: Footsqueek


Forget everything you know about hybrids.The new Panamera S Hybrid.Luxury, performance, exhilaration. Words not usually associated

with hybrids.

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delivering a combined 380 hp, and 0-62 mph in just six seconds.

Or the uncompromising comfort from a four door, four seater

Porsche. Add to this a fuel consumption of 41.5 mpg with CO2

emissions of just 159 g/km, and you have an unrivalled

balance between performance and efficiency.

Re-evaluate what hybrid means. Drive the new Panamera S Hybrid.

Call 0845 8454 911 or visit www.porsche.co.uk/chester to find out

how we’re redefining performance hybrid technology.

Fuel consumption figures for the Panamera S Hybrid with 19-inch all-season tyres optimised for rolling resistance in mpg (l/100km): Urban 38.2 (7.4); Extra Urban 42.8 (6.6); Combined 41.5 (6.8). CO2 emissions 159 g/km.

Porsche Centre ChesterCheshire OaksCheshireCH65 [email protected]

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with hybrids.













with hybrids.












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Documents

Business Matters 11