bbp south west - edition 34

Ed

ition 34

T: 08000 807 809E: [email protected]

www.bbpmedia.co.uk

BRISTOL BUSINESS POST

bbpMedia

Have you ever thought about how much more successfulyour business would be if all your staff performed at thesame level as your best? All your sales people sold at thehighest level, your customer services people were all asgood with the customers?

Put simply, high quality HR is all about getting the best from allof your people all of the time. Raising the bar your people’sperformance to improve the performance of your business.Easier said than done, and the time-poor small business owner,already bogged down with day to day tasks and the mass oflegislation with which they need to comply, is rarely able to giveHR the time it deserves and frequently leaves matters to oneside, until there is a serious problem.

This is where Otter HR comes in. Otter HR was set up in 2008by John Taylor, with the aim of providing first class HR adviceto small and medium sized companies who do not need theirown full time HR Manager or HR Director, and to provideadditional support where necessary. Otter HR Services givesyou all the advantages of having your own experienced HRDirector at a fraction of the cost.

‘In my experience, we often get called into organisations whenthings have gone wrong, there may be a serious performanceissue or even an employment tribunal claim pending and we arehappy to deal with those cases. In all my time in HR I have notlost a tribunal case yet.’ says John ‘Success in getting goodperformance from your people and defending in tribunal comesfrom being well planned and setting good structures and

objectives for staff. Get that process right and businesses canmaximise their performance‘.

Managers and business owners sometimes find dealing withpeople issues difficult. If a particular employee or team isstruggling then there can be a temptation to leave the problemto resolve itself. ‘I think the thing I say to my clients most is thatit won’t go away’ says John. ‘In fact, problems often get worseif you leave them so I am always seeking to come up with aplan to solve issues. People often think that it will be difficult,but it is rarely as bad as they fear. One of the most importantelements of high quality HR support is the ability to managedifficult conversations to a solution which works for all sides.’

So where do you start? Probably with a free consultation andHR assessment, Otter HR will discuss your business with you,giving you the opportunity to explain any concerns you mayhave, where you see the future of your business, and yourimmediate plans. They will be able to identify the areas withwhich they can help, and provide recommendations and anaction plan tailored specifically to your business.

Whether you are just starting out and considering taking on thatfirst key, non-family member of staff or an established business,Otter HR recognises the importance of having the right peoplein place and will be at your side to help you.

It can be very complex to know the most appropriate course ofaction to take when something goes wrong, with potential legalimplications. Otter HR are able to offer professional advice tohelp managers deal with these cases and in difficult situationswill manage them directly.

Whatever your HR concerns Otter HR will be able to help,please contact John Taylor for an initial discussion on 01803 606069, or for more general information, visit their web site www.otter-hr.co.uk

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Welcome to Edition 34 of the Bristol BusinessPost, the free magazine for the Southwestbusiness community, packed with news tips andstories across the region.

In our first edition of the new year we start offwith articles relating to staffing and motivationwith a perennial topic for this time of year,Health and Fitness, we offer tips on organising a Team Building Event and look at theApprenticeship data.

We also look at some of the reliefs andallowances available to businesses and considerwhat happens when you are ready to move onfrom your business.

In the next edition we will continue some ofthese topics but also look at TechnologicalInnovations for Business including the uses forCorporate Videos, especially at Conferencesand Events.

BBP Media11 Canalside Office Complex,Lowesmoor Wharf,Worcester WR1 2RR

Tel: 08000 807 809Fax: 01905 726 467E: [email protected]: www.bbpmedia.co.uk

Publisher: PIL (Europe) LimitedPrint & Design: Heron Press UK

ALL RIGHTS RESERVED

Reproduction in whole or part prohibited withoutpermission. Colour transparencies, prints or any pictorialmedia for this publication are sent at owners risk and whilst every care is taken, neither PIL (Europe) Limited or its agents accept liability for loss or damage. No editorialsubmissions will be returned unless accompanied by a Self Addressed Envelope.

DISCLAIMER

Whilst every effort has been made to ensure that advertsand articles appear correctly, PIL (Europe) Limited cannotaccept responsibility for any loss or damage causeddirectly or indirectly by the contents of this publication. The views expressed in this magazine are not necessarilythose of its publisher or editor.

C O N T E N T SBridgwater College 4

Latest Government Statistics on Apprenticeships 5

Wiltshire College 6

intelligentpos 8

Choosing a Telecoms System for your Business 9

Datasharp 10

Orchard Press 12

Hornblower Business Brokers 14

Outlook positive for M&A activity 15

Jordans Corporate Law 17

Ovation Finance 18

South West Business Finance 19

Beavis Morgan 20

R & D Tax Credits, not just for the big boys 21

Ernst & Young 22

Capital Allowances 23

AECOM 24

Warehouse Layout 25

Amethyst Systems 26

Your Power 27

Anton Saws and Machinery 28

Cleaning Enterprise 28

The Languages of Growth 29

Coface 30

Sally Walker Language Services 31

JaLee First Aid Training 32

A Healthier Bottom Line 33

On Par Productions 34

Teamwork 35

Bovey Castle 36

The Jockey Club 37

Ashton Court Mansion 38

Cardiff Met Conferences 39

Tortworth Court Four Pillars Hotel 40

The Manor House Hotel and The Ashbury Hotel 41

Lauren’s Catering 42

BBP Media Contents pg ed 34_Layout 1 03/01/2016 13:22

Bridgwater College hasworked hard to help benefitbusinesses in theirworkplace training andApprenticeship needs. Byworking with employers,industry specialists,community organisationsand awarding bodies,Bridgwater College can

develop and deliver innovative, accredited trainingprogrammes that fully address the theoretical knowledge,practical skills and industry behaviours that combine tocreate professional, work-ready individuals.

Further Education colleges, such as Bridgwater College, are nottraditionally the first port of call for an employer seeking torecruit an apprentice or trainee, or to re-train or upskill anexisting employee via an Apprenticeship programme. However,a combination of colleges’ expert knowledge of funding andawarding body requirements, academic and pedagogicexpertise and industry-standard facilities, means they areextremely well-placed to deliver the theoretical and practicalelements of Apprenticeship training, leaving businesses tocomplement and reinforce this learning via practical applicationin the workplace.

Over the past two years the UK Government has committedsignificant resource to the development and funding ofApprenticeships and Traineeships, as a considered response tothe UK-wide skills shortage. Bridgwater College’s employerengagement has generated private sector investment of some£40m in College buildings and facilities which, in turn, havesupported phenomenal growth in Bridgwater College’sApprenticeship provision. Through these partnerships,employers are being given unprecedented access to a vast poolof talented individuals, and the opportunities they are nowoffering young people, in terms of work experience, work

placements,Apprenticeships andTraineeships with bluechip, multinationalcompanies are secondto none.Apprenticeships arenot just for the young,and definitely not justfor the academically

able; Bridgwater College’s employer partnerships have alsogenerated fantastic opportunities for individuals who prefer avocational route or who are unemployed, disadvantaged andsocially-excluded, to enter, or return to, the workplace.

Research carried out for the Department for Business,Innovation and Skillls shows that 65% of employers reportimproved productivity in their business as a result of employingan apprentice, and nine out of 10 Apprenticeship employershoping to achieve business benefits, confirm thatApprenticeships deliver.

Bridgwater College can workwith the employer to identifyan Apprenticeship frameworkthat addresses the broadtraining need, and then tailorit to suit, with the specialist,craft-based componentsbeing delivered byexperienced, skilledpersonnel in the workplace.Employers sometimes use anApprenticeship programmeto re-train or upskill existingemployees in response toemerging opportunities ortechnological advancementor to boost their supportservices such as businessadministration, IT, marketingor HR.

Apprenticeships can also work well for small and medium-sizedbusinesses. Even a micro-business, where the passing on ofskills is absolutely vital to its survival, can access – and afford –an apprentice. From April 2016, employers will no longer berequired to pay employer National Insurance contributions forapprentices (under the age of 25 on earnings up to the upperearnings limit). Small businesses may also be able to receive a£1,500 grant for apprentices aged between 16 and 24 years old.

If you would like more information please contact our BusinessDevelopment team on 01278 655111 or [email protected]

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Apprenticeships are a key part of theGovernment’s plan for growth, butdespite the improved economy, theprevailing skills gap, incentives foremployers and support from trainingproviders, there is still a lack ofrecognition of the benefits ofapprentices for employers,particularly amongst smaller firms.

Apprenticeships are often hailed as apotential hiring solution for smallbusinesses, yet in research carried out bythe Organisation for Owner ManagedBusinesses, 8% of respondents stated thatthey have found the process of hiring anapprentice too costly in the past, with 15%of respondents citing a lack of financialresources and time as stumbling blocks.

Interestingly, 54% of OMBs did not thinkthey would have enough work to keep anapprentice busy.

So what is the story? In fact 2014/15 sawa steady improvement in uptake with492,700 apprenticeship starts in England,52,300 (12%) more than the previous year,being the first year since 2011/12 in whichapprenticeship numbers increased.

In further confirmation that anapprenticeship is being seen as a positivecareer choice the number of people whowere still on an apprenticeship in a givenyear also increased between 2013/14 and2014/15 by 2% (20,800), with an increaseof 1% in the number achieving a worthwhilequalification, over the same period.

The stereotypical image of an apprenticeas being a school leaver is also underquestion as, after a fall in 2013/14, thenumber of apprenticeship starts by peopleaged 25 and over remained higher thanany other age category with morethan 210,000 starts in 2014/15.

As in previous years, the majority ofapprenticeships were in the servicesectors. Almost three quarters (73%) of allstarts were concentrated in three sectors:Business, Administration & Law; Health,Public Services & Care and Retail &Commercial Enterprise.

In a further departure from the receivedmodel the most popular sector wasBusiness, Administration and Law,accounting for 29% of all apprenticeshipstarts in England, closely followed byHealth, Public Services & Care (26%).

In another departure from the stereotypeof the non-academic school leaver, thehighest number of apprenticeship startswas for Intermediate apprenticeships(Level 2) with 224,000 starts, followed by136,800 Advanced (Level 3) and 13,200Higher (Level 4 and above)apprenticeships, although HigherApprenticeships are still underrepresented with just 4% of all starts, asopposed to 60% for Intermediateapprenticeships.

It seems that companies are coming toappreciate the benefits an apprentice canbring to their business. The difficulty ofrecruiting staff with the specific skillsneeded to help move their businessforward, can be resolved by taking on anapprentice, someone who is activelystudying modules that match the job rolethey are training for. After all, theapprenticeship programme is designed toequip apprentices to hit the groundrunning and reduce the training thatbusinesses need to provide, causing littledisruption to everyday operations.

Although apprentices may not havehands-on experience within your industry,they can often offer new ideas and a freshperspective that are just as valuable inhelping your business grow. Many comeequipped with auxiliary skills that yourbusiness can utilise. For example, youngpeople often have strong technologicalknow-how in such as social media thatcan add further value to your organisation.

Employing trainees provides the opportunityto train them at the very beginning of theircareer with the knowledge andprofessionalism that you expect from yourstaff. In this way they learn how thebusiness operates and gain invaluableexperience early on in their training.

When apprentices become part of yourteam you have the opportunity to shapeand mould them with the ethos and cultureof your business. Many apprentices go onto become full time employees and work forthe enterprise that first bought into them.This highlights the loyalty and dedicationthat hiring an apprentice breeds – youinvest in them and in return they invest intoyour business.

A recent report by the Centre ofEconomics and Business Research (CEBR)has revealed that 25% of consumers arewilling to pay more for goods and servicesoffered by businesses that employapprentices. The figures show that duringtraining, each apprentice a business hiresis estimated to make “productivity gains ofover £10,000 per annum.”

With so many short and long-termbenefits to hiring an apprentice, maybe it’stime to hire one and realise theadvantages for your own business.

Unpicking the LatestGovernment Statistics on

Apprenticeships

The Government published the latest statisticsfor Apprenticeships on November 12th.

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WILTSHIRE COLLEGE TRAINING FOR BUSINESS

Staying competitive is the key to sustainability. Training your staff,

keeping them motivated and up-to-date with industry trends and new

technologies is essential to achieving that goal. Your staff benefit too, by

learning new skills and becoming a valued asset to any organisation.

We understand that time means money and that training can mean potential staff shortages for you, so

we can provide in-house training for your employers at a time and place to suit you and your working hours.

We offer a variety of qualifications including: Work-based training NVQs, apprenticeships, accredited qualifications and Wiltshire College-certified short courses and workshops, all of which are designed to enhance the skills of your staff.

Working with over 1,300 employers

throughout Wiltshire and beyond, our Business

Development Team will work with you to identify flexible

training programmes appropriate to all levels of

your workforce.

Find out more:0845 345 2235www.wiltshire.ac.ukTalk to us:

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“I firmly believe that they are the most cost e�ective way for businesses to develop their own talent and to ensure the sustainability of their workforce.”

Matthew Heaton, Managing Director, Colston Engineering Services

Apprenticeships are a proven way of creating a more effective workforce: by harnessing fresh new talent and addressing your skills gaps directly, your business will gain the practical skills and qualifications it needs now, and for the future.

136,000 workplaces throughout the UK offer Apprenticeships in over 80 industries!

Apprenticeships BUILDING A SUSTAINABLE WORKFORCE

83% of companies who employ apprentices rely on

their Apprenticeship programme to provide the skilled workers they need.

www.wiltshire.ac.uk/apprenticeships01249 465 282

Talk to our Apprenticeship Team on:

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The rise in seasonal pop-up operations and festivals hasdriven a need for easy-to-use, mobile electronic point ofsale (EPOS) systems which is being met by a young,technology company, Intelligent Point of Sale.

The company has developed a cloud-based, iPad point of saleapplication intelligentpos, which provides a low cost, cuttingedge EPOS system which literally puts big business tools intothe hands of every business.

intelligentpos allows business owners to remotely monitor theircommercial activity and stock, manage staffing levels and alterproducts and offers in a timely, on-demand basis. It benefitsfrom all of the features expected of a traditional EPOS system,but at the fraction of the cost. Alongside intelligentpossoftware, consumers have the option to purchase hardwareand are offered onsite installation for free.

The software comes with UK based support which runs sevendays a week. The programming team behind the app is madeup of the best Scottish talent available and is continuallyimproved to adapt to the needs and demands of customerswhilst remaining ahead of the technology curve.

Intelligent Point of Sale was the first in Britain to market a homegrown iPad based till system for UK retail and hospitality users.Its ease of use and cloud based architecture makes it eminentlyscalable and fully adaptable to high turnover businesses with100 sites as well as high demand businesses with 50 tills in asingle location.

The vison and top priority of Intelligent Point of Sale is toprovide an affordable system which has the ability to put thetrading power of an international corporate in the hands of anindependent sole trader.

Current clients range from pubs, bars, cafes, restaurants andclubs with a single till in one location through to multiple tillsacross multiple locations, and it has been installed and used atevents where its advantages are instantly recognised.

At Glastonbury and T in the Park, the intelligentpos app wasdeployed by a number of prominent pop-up retailers to manageorders, payments and stock-control on the move. In Edinburgh,events company Underbelly has used the system across itssummer and Christmas venues, calling intelligentpos “anintuitive product” and saying it “minimises waiting times andallows visitors to experience a more efficient service at our barareas and box offices.”

EPOS systems are notoriously very expensive and this is whyprice is one of the many selling points behind the intelligentposapp. From only £39 per month for a single iPad Terminal and£29 per month per device for additional terminals theintelligentpos app truly stands out among its competitors. Intoday’s retail and hospitality world time and customer serviceare key. The intelligentpos app takes this into account andsimplifies the payment and order process to ensure smallbusiness owners can concentrate on providing customers withthe best experience rather than spending too much time ontheir own systems.

www.intelligentpos.com [email protected] 404 5805 or 0333 202 1025

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It’s the era of the Smartphone - but howsmart are we when it comes to choosinga phone system for the business?

Considering the range and equipment outthere, it seems we need to be pretty smart.And that can be daunting for anyone lookingto install new telecoms, especially as theneed to get it right can be critical to thesuccess of a business.

Whether the communication is internal,connecting staff to each other, or external,keeping connected with customers existingand potential, get the set-up wrong and awhole host of problems can result which, atbest could hinder work and at worst, losebusiness.

So where to start? Here’s a basic checklist.

• Budget - what can you afford and howwill you pay it?

• Users - how many? Is it just a couple ofpeople or hundreds?

• On the line - do you have existingtelephone lines and cabling?

• Features - modern phone systems comewith handy extras, i.e. call forwarding,voice mail, diversion, which do yourequire?

• Support & Maintenance - needconsidering if you want to keep the linesof communication flowing.

If the new telecoms are going into an office,don’t forget to ensure the usual extrabusiness equipment is all systems go - suchas routers, switchers, fax or voicemailmachines. This has a critical bearing on thebudget as the size of the new system isdirectly related to what equipment needsto be bought and how much.

Now you’ve been throughthe checklist and you’reready to dial up yourlocal telecoms systemsupplier - but wait. Doyou want KSU, PBXor VoIP?

Pardon? Well, don’tpanic. These arejust shorthandfor the threemain kinds ofbusinessphone systems.

PBX stands for Private Branch Exchange,making it a dedicated telephone exchangefor just one company. They’re at theirmost efficient when they have more than50 extensions - they can even handle upto thousands - so tend to be used bylarge firms.

They not only connect internal phones butcan make external connections. A PBXwas the standard system in the dayswhen the switchboard operator was king(or more typically queen), but over timesystems have shrunk and becomeincreasingly computerised. In fact the linesare now blurred when defining thedifferences between a PBX and the nextsystem, KSU.

A Key System Unit (also known as keytelephone system or key phone system) isaimed at a smaller number of users, nomore than 50, and relies on individuals toselect an outside line rather than doing itautomatically as a PBX does.

For even smaller workforces - no morethan 10, there’s the KSU-Less TelephoneSystem which is generally pretty similar infunctionality but doesn’t have so manytechnical bells and whistles. Current KSUsystems have a central hub that providesinternal calling, but the KSU-less systemdoesn’t although every phone can takeand transfer calls.

Then there’s VoIP, very much the product ofthe internet age. A Voice over InternetProtocol system uses techno-wizardry totransform the voice into internettransmissible data, thus rendering the moretraditional telephone networks unnecessary.

Only requiring a broadband connection,the money conscious may welcome theidea of significantly cheaper phone calls.However, it’s worth remembering thatinvesting in this system means investing inan appropriate VoIP telephone withEthernet or USB connection and that notall customers may have similar.

Adaptors that facilitate the use of touch-tonephones through an IT network and phonesoftware, such as Skype installed on acomputer, will also be needed but VoIP couldreally come into its own for the businesseswhose many employees are constantly onthe road and communicate via mobile.

So those are the systems most in use bybusinesses today, although it’s worthacknowledging the ever present mobile.Some do opt for Hand Held Systems thatrely on Smartphones to enable users tosend email and other documentsalongside the more normal phone features- but that can prove a costly option.

There’s no real quick fix when it comes toinstalling a new telephone system and,thanks to a staggering amount of technicaljargon that surrounds the subject, the

job is positively bewildering.

But there are many specialists inthe region who can not onlydemystify the topic, but bycontacting them they canget right to the heart ofyour specific requirementand ensure thetelephone system that’s

installed is the rightone for your needs.

It really is goodto talk.

Choosing a Telecoms Systemfor your Business

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How can businesses collaboratemore effectively?2015 has been a year of evolution for the Datasharp team.While bolstering their expertise in voice, data, mobile and videofor business, the team expanded their focus to include videoconferencing, collaboration and hybrid data backup technology.A new website is on its way, and they have engaged marketingexperts to take their business – part of the Datasharp group –to the next level.

The last few months has been spent developing an excitingnew Technology Centre at Bath Business Park, and in January2016 the team will welcome the first business owners andmanagers through the doors. The breakthrough consultingspace, will allow customers to try new voice, data, mobile andvideo systems in a relaxed environment.

The thinking behind the new centre is simple, says SeniorAccount Manager, William Wood: “Most of our competitors arerelying on webinars and webexes and remote demonstrationsof technology, which we think becomes inhuman andimpersonal. Instead, we’re going to back to offering customerstechnology to test and play with, face to face, rather than aremote, virtual demonstration.”

Engineering Manager Brad Snow adds: “Here, you cancompare the various systems we supply side-by-side. We candemonstrate 30 different product lines here, many of whichhave big overlaps between them. You know what it's like whenyou buy something on paper, based on whether or not it ticksall the boxes, the product can often end up being different tohow you’d imagined. Our new technology suite will helpcustomers experience the tech exactly as they would in theirown offices.”

Reactions from customers who’ve visited the centre during theredesign have been overwhelmingly positive. Crucially, thecentre is not about selling one type of product, but abouthelping customers find the solution that fits them, saysDatasharp’s Regional Manager, Martin Buckland:

“When it comes to technology, you won't really understandwhat's available until you come and play with it, as opposed tocontacting someone and them coming back to you with asuggestion. People get more comfort out of just knowing thatthere’s a place to go. That’s what we’re offering businessowners with our technology centre.”

Accessible from Bristol and Bath, the new suite opens in lateJanuary 2016.

For the rest of the year, Datasharp will be focussing on meetingtheir plans for growth – to double in size over three years – withan extensive marketing and recruitment campaign. And theirfocus on being at the “bleeding edge” of voice, data, mobileand video technology will continue, especially when it comes tocollaboration technology, says William Wood:

“Increasingly, business owners are looking to get maximumefficiency from their staff, who are working remotely or flexibly

to suit their work-life balance. Collaboration platforms arebecoming more and more important because people want tomeet by video, desktop-share, use their mobiles and work fromhome. Business owners don't want their business premises tobe the thing that precludes staff from working, when traffic isbad or when the unexpected happens. That’s a big focus in ourindustry as a whole right now: effective collaboration, andsaving time on travel.”

That’s not to say the year was all work. 2015 also saw thecompany sponsor British GT team 22-GT Racing and theirAston Martin V12 Vantage GT3.

When owner Mark Farmer – Datasharp’s long-time businessmentor – offered the company a chance to sponsor his Pro-Amteam, it seemed like a natural choice. “Most of our customersare IT professionals, and they love cars and gadgets,” sayssenior account manager William Wood. “When we asked a fewclients what their interests are, the overwhelming response wasmotorsport and cars.”

After the first-day trials at Brands Hatch in March, the highlightfor the Datasharp team and some lucky customers was a dayspent doing hot-laps with the 22-GT team at Silverstone.“Being the passenger for a no-holds-barred lap by one of thedrivers themselves was quite spectacular”, says Martin.

The company’s sponsorship of the 22-GT Racing continues into2016, and the next 12 months promise to be an exciting ridefor the whole Datasharp team.

Updating your business telephone system:7 things you need to know

Here’s Datasharp’s advice on what business owners shouldconsider before investing in new business telephone technology:

Location and Users

Is your business on one site or do you have remote workers? Howmany staff members are likely to use your new telephone system?

Planning for Expansion

If the number of phones your business needs is likely toincrease in the next 5–10 years, make a note. Expansion is oneof the key reasons existing telephone systems come to the endof their life.

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Choosing a Supplier

Trusting your telephone supplier is key. When making yoursearch, look for suppliers accredited by telephone systemmanufacturers, with trained and experienced engineers.Datasharp has over 30 years’ telecoms experience, and areacknowledged by Unify, Cisco, ShoreTel and BT as beingamong their largest UK partners. They’ve won multiplecustomer service awards, too.

System Features

Ask yourself what you need from your new system. Making theright choice of system will mean better customer service andincreased productivity and efficiency for your business, so it’simportant to get it right. Possible Unified Communicationsoptions include:

Call recording and reporting•

Call forwarding and transfer•

Contact centre technologies•

Call queuing•

Hunt Groups•

Automated booking systems•

Computer telephony integration•

Integration with your business systems (such as CRM)•

Centralised messaging and voicemail to email•

Cost

Budgeting is key. The cost of your new system will vary greatlydepending on the number of features and users you choose tointegrate. Also, ask yourself if you want to buy the systemoutright; lease financing may be a better option.

Employee Training

Will you need to train staff to use your new system? This isespecially important if your business is spread across morethan one site or is expanding quickly. Make sure your suppliercan provide tailored training days for your new solution.

Maintenance

Your telephone system is a vital link between your business and theoutside world. Choose the right level of breakdown cover for yournew system, and be aware of what is and isn’t included in yourpackage.

Datasharp is a specialist provider of video, data, mobile andvideo for business, offering solutions built around customers’requirements, goals and expectations. For independent, no-obligation advice from their expert team, contact 08000328274 or visit www.datasharp-ic.co.uk

For more information, please contact DatasharpIntegrated Communications:

4, The Office Village, Bath Business Park, Roman Way, Bath, BA2 8SG.

08000 328274 www.datasharp-ic.co.uk

[email protected]

@DatasharpIC

facebook.com/DatasharpIC

LinkedIn.com/company/Datasharp-Integrated-Communications

We also have offices in; Bristol, Newbury and London.


11

25th AnniversaryReasons for celebration keep on coming for Tewkesburybased Orchard Press, the quality driven family run B1Litho printing business.

This year they celebrate their 25th year of trading, and last yearto their delight, they scooped Family Business of the Year 2014at the Gloucestershire Business Awards.

Bob Williams started as a Print Broker in 1990 and then in1996 together with his son Adrian, who is also a printer, theymoved into production and started Orchard Press. The namecame about as an orchard in their garden was sold to help startthe business.

Wife and mother Margaret Williams took on the role ofcompany secretary, as they moved into production by renting afactory in Cheltenham and then moved on to purchasing their

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own purpose-built factory in Tewkesbury in 2005. From first employing an initial member of staff, who is still withthem today, they have now grown to 20 employees, with 2 new sales representatives.

Bob told us that they have continued to invest and expand thebusiness, investing over £3 million last year alone, in order totake advantage of ever changing technology, moving over thelast 4 years from B2 to B1 Printers. Although they started as2-colour Printers, for the last 11 years they have been 10-colour, now, through using their latest B1 Heidelberg 10 ColourXL106 which was installed only last year. In March theyinvested in a new Imagesetter to keep up with the colossalspeed of the new press.

Bob explained that, “The installation of the latest generationSuprasetter will see our plate output almost double from 18 to35 plates an hour. (This is incredible seeing as over 10 yearsago it would have taken all day to produce this amount!) Thiswill mean virtually no plate wastage and even tighter controlsover quality - after all High Definition Print is what we do best!”

They offer Print Management, FOGRA 39 Proofing system, B110 Colour Perfecting Printing, printing at 250dpi HybridScreening as standard, with a choice of finishes includingSaddle-stitch and Perfect Bound.

Orchard Press has recently joined the BPIF (British PrintingIndustries Federation) and look forward to the many benefitsthis will bring.

Bob told us about another exciting development, saying, “We havealso launched a new informative video on our own You Tube channelshowcasing the print process here from start to finish!

Specialists in quality pressroomproducts and services.

Tel: +44 (0) 33 33 21 85 21Email: [email protected]

CyanX Ltd, Unit 1, South View Business Park, Ghyll Royd, Guiseley, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS20 9LT

Pleased to support Orchard Press

Quality Press Room Products

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Largest independent family owned paper and board merchant and converter in the UK

18,000 tonnes of products available in ream wrapped and bulk packed pallets and in reels

Unique 48 hour bespoke sheeting service offering sizes from 300 x 310mm up to 1850 x 2200mm

01922 633 333 [email protected]

www.visionpaper.co.uk

A complete Recycling and Confidential DataShredding specialist providing a Zero Waste

service to business and industry.“Proud to support Orchard Press”

� 01242 588600� [email protected]

This is on our website also and it’s a useful insight forcustomers who don’t have the time to visit and potentialcustomers to introduce Orchard Press and our qualities.”

Quality is the key to Orchard Press’s success; they will alwaysmake that extra effort to ensure your job will be printed to yourexact requirements with colours and images that really standout from the crowd by printing at 250dpi as standard with noextra charge for this service. Your print will only leave theirfactory if they are 100% happy that you will be 100% happywith the quality. Bob says, “Superior quality is our number onepriority and our attention to detail is unprecedented.”

A testament to the continuing role of print in an increasinglydigital world, they supply many sectors with premium qualitycatalogues, brochures, leaflets, inserts and promotional material.

They print for customers locally, being the only B1 printer withina 45 mile radius, and for clients from all over the UK. Many oftheir clients have been with them for over 20 years, oftenreferred by another marketing buyer who values their 'highlycommended' print solutions.

Along the way they have gained ISO 9001 for quality and ISO14001 for their environmental efforts, alongside FSCcertification, to offer customers the safe knowledge that theirpaper only comes from certified forests. They do everythingthey can to limit the impact on our environment.

Adrian Williams is very excited about Orchard Press’s future,despite the difficulty of convincing print buyers of the continuedvaluable role of print in marketing.

He said “Print still has a valuable and high place in marketing forROI. Print buyers have a very tight budget and may sometimes

overlook print in the marketing mix, but print has been proven tostill be a powerful and successful way to drive people to a saleand works very well with e-marketing not against it.”

Orchard Press are on a growth plan and aim to increase theirsales to £3.5 million in the next 3 years.

At Orchard Press they provide an individual, bespoke service,because every client is different, and every job is different.Adrian issues a warm welcome to get in touch to discuss yourmarketing print needs, so please give one of the team a call, orsend them an email and see how they could help.

For cost effective print solutions contact AdrianWilliams 01684 850960 [email protected]

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Business sales andacquisitions specialistHENRY CAMPBELL-JONES, managingdirector of HornblowerBusiness Brokers, isforecasting a buoyanttime for businessacquisitions in the next12 months. Here, hegives us his in-depthprojections for the year ahead

2015 was another very good year for Hornblower and the M&Amarket in general. More business owners are deciding to sell,and there are more active buyers with funds.

We remain very positive about 2016, and here’s why:

UK GDP is forecast to grow by 2.4 per cent in 2016, the sameas this time last year for 2015, and with continuing confidenceamong business owners and investors looking to expand,acquisitions represent an immediate means of achievingcompounded growth.

Service sector businesses may account for much of thisgrowth, while engineering and manufacturing confidence is alittle lower, particularly in the oil and gas sector. But suchinfrastructure projects cannot stay on hold for forever so we arestill confident that such engineering companies remain anattractive acquisition.

Businesses across the board have been doing well for the lastthree to four years and buyers can be confident of theirongoing sustainability. Now in a good position to sell, businessowners can progress plans to retire or start other projects.

Numerous active buyers remain with cash available for acquisitions.Less reliant on bank lending, many are still seeking betterinvestment returns than cash and an alternative to property.

Regarding larger deals, banks are now keen to lend - withincertain limits - and still face pressure to do so. Alternativefunding channels, such as invoice finance specialists, UK‘challenger’ banks, and even crowdfunding (though we are stillyet to see crowdfunding used for any of our deals), are alsoincreasing buyers’ options.

Whilst cross-border deals are rarer among smaller SMEs, thereis increasing demand from international buyers for businesseswith revenues of £2.5million-plus. Indeed we have recentlyconcluded the sale of a £2million commercial cleaning companyto an Italian facilities management firm. The positive economicoutlook relative to the rest of Europe is making the UK’s smalland medium-sized businesses attractive prospects.

Which businesses will sell well in 2016?

Whatever the economic conditions, when it comes to SME sales,mergers and acquisitions, certain factors hold true. Businesseswhich sell well typically share many common traits: they:

- Operate in a niche market with strong barriers to entry

- Have consistent recurring revenue, with clients often locked into a service contract

- Have strong profit margins, and

- Demonstrate tangible growth and opportunities to expand.

The sectors below have seen particularly strong acquisitivedemand over the last three years:

- IT support and telecoms

- Software development and Software-as-a-service (SAAS)

- Commercial cleaning and facilities management

- Archive storage and record management

- Accountancy

- Precision engineering for aerospace, automotive, oil and gas and food processing markets

We have hundreds of active buyers on our database andconsistently receive at least 70 enquiries for each business wemarket in these sectors.

Do you have a business in one of these sectors? AtHornblower, we like to start dialogue two to three years beforeyou are looking to sell. We are always happy to advise onvaluation and the performance metrics needed to achieve yourdesired deal value, as well as on sale timing and the options forexiting your business.

Will 2016 be a good year for selling your business? Quitepossibly, but contact Hornblower Business Brokers’ Bristolregional office on 0117 370 1837 to discuss your plans.

www.hornblower-businesses.co.uk

Will 2016 be a good yearfor selling your business?

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Last year was one of the busiest ever for merger and acquisitionactivity, on regional, national andinternational levels.

Globally, much of the activity was drivenby the healthcare and technology sectors,and it saw deals worth a total of£3.25billion completed, a new all-timerecord just eclipsing the previous high,seen just before the 2007 crash.

And the outlook for 2016 suggests thatthe momentum is likely to continue, as aresurgent and increasingly competitivebanking sector will bring about greaterchoices of funding channels for fuellingbusinesses’ growth plans.

It is this new keen level of competitionwhich is expected to lead to themomentum continuing, and bringing aboutthe conditions which could see furtherrecords broken.

As the cost of becoming established anddoing business in London continues torise, many M&A specialists are expectedto refocus their activities on opportunitiesoutside the capital. And this is expectedto lead to major cities such as Bristolestablishing their own niches, guiding andadvising businesses in specific sectorsand helping them find the right partners totake their businesses forward.

Manager-to-owner

The level of management buyout activityhas grown steadily year on year since2011, as this has become one of the mainways in which businesses take themselvesto the next stage in theirgrowth.

One of the most common circumstanceswhich brings about such opportunities isthe impending retirement or semi-retirement of a managing director orfounder.

This brings the opportunity for other boardmembers to step forward and take controlof the business. But as far as those newbosses – and those who stay on board tosee it through to its new chapter – areconcerned, the secret to whether such amove succeeds or fails often lies inwhether the transition can be seenthrough smoothly, with service to existingclients maintained, regardless of whatorganisational changes may transpire.

But one of the biggest dilemmas when itcomes to mapping out the future for anewly-acquired business can be whetherto involve new private equity, together withthe need which this brings for it toconsider the strategic views and wishes ofsuch new stakeholders.

The fresh capital injected by any newinvestors is sure to be welcomed in theshort term – but the best way of keepingprevious managers and staff on board isto make sure that their views of andvisions for the future of the business arealso given serious consideration – after all,these are most likely people whose hardwork has ensured that the business wasseen as an attractive investment in thefirst place.

The question of whether to fundexpansion through taking on greater debtor diluting the equity in a business bybringing on board new stakeholders canoften be key to its future direction.

The presence of those new stakeholdersis likely to increase pressure to ensure thatthey realise a return on their investment.Yet, with returns from many traditionalsources, such as banks, at historic lows,this means there are likely to be a widerchoice of sources of potential new financefor growth and development of a businessthan for many years. And while the signalscontinue to suggest that bank returns willremain at historic lows, the momentumwhich has seen ever more investors seekout alternative places to put their money isvery likely to continue.

Debt vs equity

When used wisely, debt financing can helpbusiness owners get more value from theirinvestment by increasing their earningswithout diluting their stakes in a business. Butthis can leave a business at the mercy of adownturn in its fortunes, and if it then cannotmeet its interest payments, this could put itschances of obtaining further investment indanger. This is because the ratio of debt toequity in a company is one of the keyindicators used by investors to make the vitaldecision of where to put their money.

While growth in any business isundoubtedly a blessing, and

ultimately whatprovides the widereconomy with theimpetus it needsto create wealthand prosperity,

how managementhandles that growth, and

how they use the proceedsof it are key factors whichcan either secure its long-term future, or decide whetherit remains in control of its owndestiny.

Outlook positive for M&A activity

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Buying or selling a small to medium sized business is apretty major step for the owners. Yet they are events thatfew plan for well in advance. In either case, the moreprepared you and your business are, the better theoutcome you are likely to achieve.

There are many examples where a business, well-prepared for exit,achieves better results: a smoother process; a greater return; lesschance of any nasty surprises; and, an altogether happier group ofshareholders. This does not mean that owners need to knowexactly when they will start their “buy and build” strategy or theirexit route, it just means they are always prepared.

There are exceptions of course. Some business owners havean eye on “exit” at the start of a venture. They will have workedon a business plan which includes an understanding of wherethey wish to be in, for example, 3 to 5 years’ time. They mayhave earmarked potential acquisitions during the course of theplan, which sit neatly with their ideas for growth. They mayeven have identified potential future acquirers, for when theyhave taken the business as far as they can.

Most owners, however, do not think this way. In particular, theowner of the family run business who is usually thinking more interms of “handing the business over” to their offspring whenthey are ready to retire. But, what if they’re not interested intaking on the business? It seems counter-productive to bethinking of the “end” at the start of a venture, but this canprove to be a great tool in ensuring the business is driven in theright direction.

Debbie Farman, Director of Legal Practice and Head ofCorporate at Jordans Corporate Law Limited says “Havingworked with many SME growth companies, I have found thefollowing checklists to be helpful when considering either a“bolt on” acquisition or an exit strategy (or both). One is fromthe buyer’s perspective, the other from the seller’s”:

Preparation for Sale

1. Authority: Are all shareholders in agreement with the strategy? Are the Board authorised to sell? Are there anyshareholder or bank consents required?

2. Corporate Governance: Are the company books, filings, tax returns up to date? Does the companyhave a good governance structure?

3. Confidentiality: To ensure that only thosethat need to know, know, use confidentialityagreements where required.

4. Finance: Are the accounts in order? If the company has external financearrangements, check what consentswould be required to sell.

5. Assets: Does the company own all its assets that are needed for the business or does it hold correct and valid licences to use such assets?

6. Contracts: Will the current client contracts survive a sale?(i.e. if a share sale is anticipated, is there a change of controlclause in the contract?; if an asset sale, are you able to assign without consent?)

7. IP Protection: Does the company own all its intellectualproperty? Have all IP rights been registered? Do employmentcontracts contain IP clauses?

8. Employees: Are there employees that are integral to thebusiness? Do they need to be tied in with retention bonuses? Are the employees aware of the potential sale? Depending upon the format of the sale employees may needto be informed and consulted. Will the sale trigger any employee share options?

9. Property: Are there any onerous property arrangements thatwould be unattractive to a buyer?

10. Pension: Are there any deficits in the pension scheme thatwould be unattractive to a buyer?

11. Sale Documents: Does the seller want to be in charge ofthe sale process? e.g. via an auction where the seller drafts the sale documents; or, allow the buyer to run the process,through a conventional route with the buyer drafting thesale documents.

12. Buyers: Are you able to identify potential buyers?: are youlooking for a sale to a business undertaking the same trade? or looking to sell to current shareholders, employeesor management (who may need private finance?); perhapsa sale to private equity? Or, even an exit via an initial publicoffering/listing?

13. Timing: Is your business seasonal? Is there a better time ofyear to be looking for a buyer?

14. Tax and structuring: Have the owners taken tax advice?This may determine whether the sale should be a sale of shares or assets.

Established Business Looking to Acquire

1. Authority: Does the Board have authority to undertake theacquisition? Are there any shareholder or bank

consents required?

2. Synergies: Will the potential targetbusiness integrate well with the current business? What is the rationale for buying it?

BUYING OR SELLING A BUSINESS? IT PAYS TO BE PREPARED


16

3. Employees: Will all employees be take on by the new business? Is there a requirement to consult with employees?Will there be some senior members in dual roles?

4. Location: Where is the business located? Do you need thisadditional location?

5. Finance: How will the acquisition be financed? If by externalfinanciers, what security are they expecting? Does this affectthe current financial arrangements? How much will the buyer pay? How has the business been valued? How will theconsideration be paid?

6. Consents: Do the sellers have the necessary consents to sell? Does the buyer have consent to acquire.

7. Due Diligence: What due diligence has the buyer done onthe selling business? Commercial? Legal? Financial? Insurance?

8. Competition: Is the buyer or the seller a market leader? Are there any competition law aspects to be concerned about?

9. Compliance: Does the target business have all of the licences it requires and has it maintained good corporate governance?

10. Tax and structuring: Will this be a share sale or an asset sale? Have the acquiring owners taken tax advice?Does the buyer want the seller to reorganise the business before they buy?

11. Timing: Is there a better time to buy?

Whether this is a new venture, part of a programme ofacquisitions, or simply time to move on, it pays to be prepared.

Jordans can provide as much or as little support and guidanceas you need. Their experienced team will guide your throughpreparation and steer you safely through all the legalities of theprocesses involved.

For help and advice on all matters relating to buyingand selling a business please contact DebbieFarman at [email protected] call direct on 0117 918 1221.

Debbie Farman


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Does Your Money Give You Wellbeing?Finance is one of five areas that contribute towards your wellbeing.

Any financial planning should focus on how to use your moneyto increase your wellbeing.

Does your financial adviser ask how much investment risk youwant to take? Or do they work out how much investment riskyou need to take?

Having a clear path to identifiable goals forms a key part offinancial wellbeing. That’s two separate objectives – first weneed to identify goals and motivations. Only once we are clearof what we want from life can we begin to plot a path towardsthose objectives.

Maybe you are a business owner who is thinking of selling in 5years’ time (why is it always 5 years’ time?!). Rather thanwondering how much the business might sell for, why not thinkabout how much you need from the sale, in order to give youthe lifestyle you want.

Do you actually know the lifestyle you want?

What about the person planning to retire at 60. Can you affordto? Could you maybe afford to retire earlier? On what did youbase your answer?

It’s a good idea to have a good think about what you would dowith your time. Many clients say they would travel, consultancyor part time work is also common. Family time is important too,as well as doing that thing you’ve put off for twenty years likepainting or writing that novel.

Dare to dream a little – and then we can help you work outwhat it might cost. Once those goals have been identified wecan plot a path towards them. Those annual meetings with youradviser are much more interesting when there are clearobjectives to aim for!

Financial planning does need to include investments, risk,pensions, tax, rebalancing, asset allocation, life time allowance,ISAs, repaying debt and protecting your family. All these thingsand more should be considered and reviewed.

But only once you have worked out what you want from yourmoney. Now, and in the future.

We can help you to identify your goals, create a clear pathtowards them and then look after your pensions andinvestments to make sure you get there.

Come and talk to Ovation – financial planning to makeyou happier, not just wealthier.

Find us on

For further details please visit their website, www.ovationfinance.co.uk or telephone 0117 942 4333.

Wellbeing in action! After 7 years working at OvationMelanie Hill recently left to follow her own dream – toset up Mabels Greens in Chandos Road. Do go andsee her!

12496_HorseWorld 09/12/2015 10:47 Page 1

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Daniel Smith and Steve Barrett co-founders of SouthWest Business Finance (SWBF) are changing the face ofCommercial Finance.

The two men set up the company in September 2014 to assistSME businesses with all their funding requirements. With 43years of experience between them of working with a broadrange of funding providers to provide clients with the mostappropriate funding for their needs, they really know the market.

The company can help with all aspects of funding forbusinesses and property companies, including cashflow, growth,assets, property investments, refurbishment and development.

Daniel and Steve believe that they can best serve their clientsby sitting down with them, and taking the time to becomefamiliar with the business and the client’s goals. Only once theyfully understand their client’s needs will they make a lending orinvestment recommendation.

This personal approach has seen SWBF grow very quickly froma standing start. By using their personal contacts gained overthe years they were able to “hit the ground running”, and haveexceeded their own expectations within the first year.

SWBF has the proven knowledge and experience to makethings happen, and work closely with a variety of differentlenders fully understanding their preferences and currentlending criteria to secure finance for your business whereothers cannot.

The finance is only one aspect of any transaction and SWBFhave a network of longstanding respected professionalsincluding solicitors, valuers, accountants and financial advisorswith whom they work closely to provide a complete package ofservices, ensuring your entire transaction proceeds smoothly.

Daniel explained that, “Commercial investment mortgages areavailable for a wide range of properties and sectors including,Business – single office units, office blocks, serviced offices,business parks. Retail – shops, single retail units, shoppingparades and malls, retail parks, Industry – industrial units andparks, warehouses, factories, Leisure – restaurants, pubs,cafes, gyms, golf courses, spas, Health – care homes, nursinghomes, surgeries, dental practices, vets, Education – schools,day-care nurseries, colleges.”

Talking to Daniel or Steve is to be enthused with the possibilitiesopen to borrowers and investors, with investment mortgagesavailable from £70,000 to £25 million on either interest only orcapital repayment terms, your financial goals are achievable.

It has been a very busy 12 months for the two, as in addition tohelping a number of businesses to complete their commercialfunding transactions, they have been setting up the company,and achieving full FCA compliance while also cementing theirposition amongst borrowers and lenders as a company set onhelping SME businesses achieve their funding goals

SWBF Pride themselves on their ability to deliver rapid funding toclients and to meet tight purchase deadlines including propertyauction purchases, so for a fresh vision of commercial finance visittheir web site www.swbf.co.uk, or give Dan or Steve a call on 01225800849 to arrange a confidential discussion of your requirementsand to see how they can help you.

Aspire Commercial Finance LtdT/A South West Business FinanceWaterhouse, Waterhouse Lane,Monkton Coombe, Bath, BA2 7JB

property funding

D

SWBFSOUTH WEST BUSINESS FINANCE


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Beavis Morgan is the specialist accounting, tax,restructuring and business advisory group for owner-managed businesses and entrepreneurial thinkers.

Within their focus on assisting these styles of business theyhave developed proven expertise in the area of Research andDevelopment Tax Credits.

Research and Development (R&D) Tax Credits are Government taxbreaks designed to encourage innovation by incentivisingcompanies to invest in R&D, enabling them to reduce their tax billor claim payable credits on a proportion of their R&D expenditure.

R&D for tax purposes takes place when a project seeks toachieve an advance in science or technology. Contrary topopular assumptions, eligibility is not limited to activities takingplace in laboratories and science based research centres. R&Dtax credits can often be claimed in far broader areas andvarious enterprises could qualify for significant tax reductionsand gain a cash flow boost. Loss making companies can evenclaim back tax they haven’t paid in the first place!

Companies can often make substantial claims, up to 26% taxreduction for profitable companies – that’s the equivalent of 26pfrom HMRC for every £1 spent on R&D activities, and in thecase of loss making companies up to 33.35% cash back.

Qualifying expenditure can include the staff costs of thoseworking on a project, subcontractor costs (65% allowable), andcertain other overhead expenses. And developing new orimproved products, processes, services or systems.

The rules are complex and not every accountancy practice willhave the in depth understanding, to achieve the mostfavourable results.

Steve Govey of Beavis Morgan is a specialist adviser tobusinesses with relation to the successful application of R&Dtax credits and has helped many businesses make significantclaims when they were previously unaware that they could. Hemaintains that, whist it can be a complex process, with theright adviser it may be easier than you think to claim taxcredits. Here are some of the situations Steve regularly comesacross – asked and answered:

1. Our accountant says we don’t qualify – That’s because they don’tunderstand it themselves and don’t want to look unknowledgeable

2. I don’t work in a laboratory, so my work isn’t relevant forR&D tax credits – The majority of our claims are for some formof software development, but can encompass an enormousrange of activities

3. It’s too complicated to bother – At Beavis Morgan, we havea proven methodology, accepted by HMRC. We can oftenobtain a repayment within 6 or 8 weeks of our first meeting.Our recent best was 31 days!

4. I don’t want to risk the expense of applying – Our fees areusually fully contingent on success

He says, “Does your business undertake research anddevelopment? Many businesses incur costs which are notseparately identified as research, because ongoingenhancement of existing products and services “is just what wedo”. There are additional tax deductions for qualifying researchand development expenditure and, whilst the rules can becomplex, we have a team of experts who can maximise thevalue of any potential claim.”

Speak to Beavis Morgan today to set the benefits in motion.Their proven methodology offers a painless approach towardsobtaining R&D Tax Credits.

Contact Steve Govey in the first instance on +44 (0)20 7549 2371or email [email protected]

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R & D Tax Credits,not just for the big boys

R&D Tax Credits are a valuable taxrelief for innovative businesses, andwhile there seems to be increasingawareness of their value among largercompanies, reflected in the growingnumbers of successful claims, smallercompanies are still not wellrepresented in the figures

This may be due to the widespreadmisunderstanding that such reliefs are onlyavailable to the most high tech companies,a feeling that the process is toocomplicated and expensive to beworthwhile or just to poor advice.

In an effort to address this lack ofunderstanding the Government hasintroduced a new plan to make it easier forsmall businesses investing in research anddevelopment to claim tax relief.

The two-year plan, which is a response toan HMRC consultation, aims to increasetake-up of research and development (R&D)tax relief through raising awarenessamongst small businesses and making iteasier for them to apply.

David Gauke, Financial Secretary to theTreasury explained the thinking behind thenew plan, saying, “The consultation aimedto help us understand the issues faced bysmall businesses in undertaking R&D andaccessing the relief.

“To inform future improvementsHMRC sought views from as widea range of small businesses aspossible. As well as providing awritten submission,respondents could fill in aquick online survey, enablingtime-pressed businesses tobe able to contributetheir views. In

addition to this HMRC and HM Treasuryofficials met with many businesses andrepresentative groups and held webinarswith both businesses and agents.”

In total, over 200 people responded. All theresponses were taken into account in thedrafting of the plan, with four themes beingidentified as the key factors that influenceaccess to R&D tax relief

• Awareness. Are key decision makers insmall businesses aware of the relief?

• Design. Are the rules appropriate forsmall businesses?

• Understanding. Do decision makers insmall businesses understand the rules,how they apply to the company, and theclaims process?

• Administration. Does the processoperate smoothly (speed, and ease ofuse) for small businesses.

The tax relief, which encourages companiesto invest in costly new productdevelopment, helps companies reduce theamount of corporation tax they pay onprofits by offsetting them against anyinvestment in research and development.

David Gauke said,“The governmentconsiders investmentin R&D as crucial forthe long-term growthof the UK economy;this is why R&D taxrelief plays a key rolein the government’sobjective forproductiveinvestment, withR&D investment bysmaller firms beingvital for theperformance of theUK economy. Over15,000 SMEsclaimed the relief in2013, an increase ofaround 19 per centfrom the previousyear, but we need togo further tosupport pioneeringsmall businesses.

“That’s why we’ve published a documentsetting out our plans to increase awarenessand make it easier for people to apply."

The focus is on first time claimant smallercompanies, with turnover under £2m andfewer than 50 employees. It will be avoluntary, non-statutory scheme, availableboth to companies that have alreadyundertaken R&D, and also to thoseintending to do R&D.

The plan, ‘Making R&D Easier: HMRC’splan for small business R&D tax relief’, setsout that:

• From November, small companies –with a turnover under £2 million andfewer than 50 employees – will be ableto seek advance assurance on R&D taxrelief. This will give them greatercertainty and enable them to plan theirfinances effectively.

• HMRC will explore ways to improve itscommunication around R&D tax relief,including looking at ways to use dataand work with other governmentagencies to identify companies thathave carried out R&D but have notclaimed relief.

• Interactive guidance will be developedwith stakeholder involvement.

Key points

HMRC evaluation shows that each £1 oftax foregone by R&D tax relief stimulatesbetween £1.53 and £2.35 of additional R&Dinvestment.

SME R&D relief works by way of superdeduction, allowing companies to reduceprofits liable to corporation tax by 230 percent of their qualifying R&D expenditure.

In 2013/14, businesses received £1.75billion in R&D tax relief.


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Working with youOur national Innovations Incentives practice (part of our globalnetwork), assists clients of all sizes on their journey from asingle grant application or first R&D claim, through to a matureinnovation funding strategy. We do this through a provenpartnership of tax excellence and industry science andengineering experience. We are able to work simply and clearlywith all your teams and speak their language.

This practice operates seamlessly with local client teamsproviding all Tax Advisory and Compliance services you wouldexpect from us. Our Bristol office serves the region and ensuresthat your innovation funding strategy blends seamlessly withyour wider business and tax agenda throughout the lifecycleand beyond.

Innovation funding is: R&D Credits, Grants, Patent Box?A strategic view of the future?

From start-ups to global index-leaders, innovation is at theheart of successful organisations. However, our recent surveyof aerospace and manufacturing sectors reinforces ourexperience that most companies (>60%) are yet to formalise aninnovation funding strategy that will underpin future growth.

Available incentivesInnovation incentives are a major area of governmentinvestment and continue to increase in generosity year on year.We should all be familiar with the Research and Development(R&D) tax and credit incentives that have been a central pillar(although many companies continue to underestimate therelevance and extent of these). In addition, however, the UK ismore competitive than ever with compelling grant programmesand intellectual property (IP) regimes such as the Patent Boxproving ongoing benefit.

Looking forwardConsidering the whole innovation lifecycle, rather than elementsin isolation, is now crucial to building a truly effective innovationfunding strategy for future development.

By considering future iterations of the lifecycle, we no longerlook simply retrospectively at the credits we can receive forR&D already done. Rather, we now consider how we alignfuture projects to available grants, dynamically capture thequalifying R&D for credits, and recognise the most effective IPopportunities that will feed into future patent box revenue.

By taking this holistic view, our clients also optimise theinteractions between the incentives and create an innovationfunding strategy which delivers more than the sum of its parts.

Contacts:

Adrian WilliamsExecutive Director, Innovation Incentives [email protected]

Karen KirkwoodTax Partner, EY [email protected]

What will be your view of the future?

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Although the topic tends to beassociated most often with commercialproperty, it is worth remembering thatCapital Allowances are relevant toalmost any type of business, as theyare an exception to the rule that capitalexpenses are not deductible.

Broadly, allowances are available forcertain items of a one-off nature – capitalitems that, while they are not required tobe replaced on a regular basis,nevertheless are subject to wear and tearas the years go by. In short, the deductionis an allowance for depreciation.

Capital Allowances can be claimedagainst expenditure for items essential torunning your business and used solely foryour business such as plant or equipment,and commercial vehicles.

In the case of items used not solely forwork such as cars that are used outsidethe business for personal use, or apersonal computer that you also use towork from home the claim must beworked out on a percentage basis.

Items normally deductible for acommercial property business are fixturesand fittings, electrical systems forheating, lighting and ventilation, or fireand burglar alarms. Although the costsof installing these necessary itemsare capital, they can be deductedagainst the rent.

Prior to April 2012, businesseswere able to make capitalallowance claims for expenditure onfixtures within second hand buildings,irrespective of when the expenditure wasincurred and in some cases the actions ofthe previous owners.

But since April 2012, a purchaser of asecond-hand building must formally agreea value for the fixtures with the vendorwithin two years of the purchase (the‘fixed value requirement’).

From April 2014, the relief is furtherrestricted, so that a purchaser is onlyentitled to allowances in respect of fixturesin a second-hand building if the vendorhas included the cost of the fixtures in theapplicable capital allowance pools (the‘pooling requirement’). It is not necessary,however, for the vendor to have claimedthe allowances, but it is vital that theyhave pooled the relevant expenditure ifthey were eligible to claim capitalallowances.

As such the actions of the vendor are nowessential to ensure that a purchaser canclaim relief for fixtures. Therefore, where abusiness is looking to acquire acommercial building, it is imperative that adue diligence exercise is carried out at theearliest opportunity to determine the taxhistory of the building.

Expect to see purchasers’ lawyers askingmore detailed questions on capitalallowances following the introduction ofthese rules, and paying greater attentionto the standard commercial propertyenquiries. Furthermore the availability andvalue of capital allowances in a property islikely to become a key factor in widercontractual negotiations.

Capital Allowances have been seen asopen to abuse due in part to the difficultyof determining the residual value of assetsat disposal. In the Chancellors AutumnStatement this year measures wereannounced to combat tax avoidance inrelation to Capital Allowances. Themeasures will only affect businesses whoseek to obtain tax advantages by either,manipulating disposal values leading toexcess capital allowances, or receiving aconsideration in a non-taxable form inreturn for agreeing to take over taxdeductible lease payments.

The measures are designed to prevent aperson using an artificially low disposalvalue for capital allowances purposes onthe disposal of plant or machinery wheretax advantage is one of the mainpurposes of the arrangements whichinclude that disposal.

The measures also brings into tax asincome, if not already so taxed, anyconsideration receivable by a person, or aconnected person, for agreeing to takeover payments under a lease for whichthat person can claim tax deductions.

It is important to take advice from aspecialist Capital Allowance advisor, therules are complex, but Capital Allowancesare valuable and available, so use them.

CapitalAllowances

Capital allowances are a form of tax relief given for depreciating assets.


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AECOM’s Fiscal Incentivesteam have a clear message –“we save our clients money”.

The team is formed of highlyexperienced and dedicatedasset taxation specialists with awide range of professionalqualifications from surveyingand engineering through toinvestment, taxation, accountingand sustainability.

They assist clients in reducing their tax liabilities by identifyingassets and investments that attract tax relief. In some casesmore than half of the project expenditure (including professionalfees) will be eligible for relief against taxable profits.

This year alone the team identified over £1 billion of capitalallowances, creating a direct financial saving for their clients ofover £200 million.

Particular services include:

• Capital allowances consulting

• Land remediation relief consulting

• Research and development relief consulting

• Property-related VAT and International Customs Duty mitigation

They undertake due diligence on potential acquisitions anddisposals, providing advice on the availability of relief andproviding the necessary contractual clauses and documentationto secure all available benefit.

Capital expenditure can be analysed on new builds, fit outs,conversions and refurbishments, with works in existingproperties often providing the most lucrative returns in terms oftax relief.

Fiscal incentives are increasingly being used to support thesustainability agenda in buildings and the firm’s earlyinvolvement provides the best opportunity to implement aneffective strategy focussing on green incentives via thespecification of qualifying equipment and installations.

Enhanced Capital Allowancesprovide 100% relief or a 19%payable credit (subject torestrictions) for expenditure onprescribed energy or water-saving technologies. Theseare available in the year thatthe expenditure is incurred,allowing for a full andimmediate benefit.

Whilst AECOM’s FiscalIncentives team can add valueat any stage of a project ortransaction, their earlyinvolvement can have themost impact. Recent changes

to the capital allowancerules mean that carefulplanning is required whenconsidering a propertypurchase or disposal toensure that the benefit ispreserved. Interactionduring the preparation ofthe bid or tenderingprocess also allowsAECOM to proactivelymanage the tax reliefprocess and enables theimplementation of thebest methods forenhancing the claims andtax relief available.

Their involvement increases the opportunity to create additionalproject cash flow through tax relief by:

– Identifying project-specific tax and fiscal incentives.

– Forecasting the flow of available reliefs to assist in the reporting process.

– Maximising recovery through enhanced capital allowances and other high-yielding reliefs.

– Advising on “green” initiatives, including renewable technologies.

AECOM works with a wide range of clients across all sectors,ranging from small business and private investors tointernational and world renowned organisations, with a particularfocus on the property sector, working with such high profilebusinesses as British Land, Prologis, Gazeley and Hammerson.

The firm’s network of offices throughout the United Kingdomenables them to provide specialist advice to their clientslocally.The firm’s international capability and knowledge of taxdepreciation regimes worldwide also enables them to providelocal solutions globally. They have a history of operating in manyinternational jurisdictions such as Singapore, Malaysia, Australia,South Africa, Russia, Scandinavia, India, Poland and Spain. Theywork with local tax agents to provide enhanced segregation ofproject expenditure for tax depreciation purposes.

For more information about the firm and its wide range ofservices, please visit the web site www.aecom.com

Tim Jackson leads the AECOM Fiscal Incentives team and canbe contacted on: 020 70617167 / [email protected]

Tim Jackson - Director

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The success or failure of mostwarehouse design projects comesdown in a lot of cases to layout;assessing storage requirements, themovement of goods into, around andout of the warehouse, accessrequirements and the siting of utilityservices and staff facilities.

There are lots of decisions to be madebefore you start work on the design, but inthis article we have summarised the mostimportant ones. Hopefully by making thesedecisions at the outset you’ll avoid some ofthe pitfalls that can dog warehouseinstallation projects.

Do it yourself or bring in the professionals?

A tricky one, the budget may already betight, so will the services of a professionalwarehouse designer be cost effective?Generally the professionals are accustomedto take into consideration the details thatyou might not, they are aware of the latestwarehouse management system tools andhave dedicated design software to plan forthe optimum use of space.

You will need to explain the way yourbusiness works, the nature of your goodsand plans for expansionneed to be factored in.

Forecasting your stock profiles andaccess requirements are key factors toconsider before any re-planning of yourwarehouse space can begin. Stockcontrol is a key part of managing yourspace and good stock control systemscan make a huge difference to theunderlying profitability of your business.Stock and space are a cost to yourbusiness, so it makes sense to only carrywhat you need. Most of the majormanufacturers operate a “Just in TimeSystem”, only buying what they need asand when they need it.

Look round your existing stock holding,how much of it has been in your warehousefor appreciably longer than your suppliers’delivery times to you? Do you stock inbreadth or in depth? How much of yourstorage is taken up by Goods in Transit,could the transit time be shortened?

Stock control forms just a part of aneffective warehouse management system,it is not an exact science, and you need alittle elasticity because you can’t predictevery nuance of demand. Even thoughyou can’t know every detail of your future

orders, keep ease of adaptability inmind when designing the original

layout.

Now that you havedeveloped systems toestimate the actual volumeof storage you will need, the

question arises of how thegoods are to be stored. Do your goodsrequire a temperature controlledenvironment? What sizes and types ofracking, cages, pallets or shelving doyou need? Typical warehouse storagesolutions include, pallet racking, longspan racking, industrial shelving, boxesand pick bins. Whilst pallet racking ismost suitable for storage of pallets, longspan racking and industrial shelving are

great ways to increase square footage,store larger quantities and create

easily accessible pick locations. Standardracking shelves are incredibly adaptable –not to mention very simple to assembleand dismantle as required, which makesthem perfect for smaller spaces as well aslarge open areas.

Will you need to allow aisles wide enoughfor fork-lifts, are most of your goods stillpicked and packed by hand or mechanically,and do you use a conveyor belt system? Amajor factor drastically affecting warehouselayout is the flow of goods within the facility.If your warehouse is an existing structurethen the decision may already be made foryou due to the current positioning of docksand loading bays, but if you are building anew facility, think about which system bestsuits your needs.

‘U Flow’ is the most favoured system. Thisis when both goods in and goods outfunctions are located at the same end ofthe building, usually sharing a dock. Theflow of goods follows a ‘U’ shapedpattern, with faster moving product linesbeing stored nearer to the doors toimprove efficiency. This system providesexcellent lift truck utilisation, facilitatescross-docking and improves security (asall access points are located nearby).

When designing your warehouse layout it isnot just about storage, and flow, it is alsoabout people. It is important to considerhow the various parts of the business andteams working within the warehouse/logisticfunction will effectively communicate witheach other and work together.

Try to site co-dependant departmentswithin a short distance of each other. Thiswill enable easy communication betweenrelevant personnel, and also ensure youare wasting as little time as possible withcontinuous walking back and forth.

It may seem like a minor consideration butover time those lost minutes can equateto a significant expense.

Warehouse Layout


25

Affordable and Effective WarehouseManagement Systems Tighter margins and the requirement for efficiency savings makeit more important than ever to optimise your stock managementand logistics.

For example, the large supermarkets carry a fantastic range ofperishable items, needing by their nature, swift and efficientregular deliveries. Then too, the fast moving automotive sectorneeds to rely on a steady stream of parts from their suppliers,but no-one wants to carry excessive stock. So whether you area supplier, stockholder or distributor modern IT Systems are anessential tool for your business.

Amethyst Systems Limited was created in 2008 by a team ofambitious IT Professionals to exploit their talent and experiencewithin the IT sector, with a focus on software development and thelogistics and warehouse industry, and offers a high quality,personal service tailored to suit the needs of their individual clients.

Lee Dowson, Director, explained, “The objective of ourcompany is to supply cost effective IT products and servicesthat exceed our customer expectations. Using our technicalexpertise and knowledge we create solutions to our client’sbusiness problems and deliver projects on time and withinbudget. Our philosophy is that the simplest solution is usuallythe best.”

The key benefits of dealing with Amethyst can besummarised as:

Fast implementation, your system can be up and•running within a week

Simple, no hardware required, just a standard business•broadband line and Internet Explorer

Simple and effective web interface for order input and•stock management Fully hosted and supported

Read only, Manager and Admin Security levels •

Full visibility and management of stock within the•warehouse

Allows suppliers to easily submit order requests and view•real-time stock reports through a secure web portal

Provides accurate information for efficient invoicing•

Automated Exporting of data via email to customer•

Flexible system that is bespoke and can be built upon•

Monthly payment term NO with long term contracts •

KPI and Dashboard reporting•

Affordable, costs start from as little as £150 per month.•

Amethyst’s systems can be incorporated into your existingframework and provide a perfect solution for businesses whoare currently managing their warehouse using MS Excel,including the facility to upload scanned copies of POD’s, andimport Goods In and Out orders using MS Excel.

Whatever you need from your IT Systems to manage yourwarehouse and logistics more efficiently, saving time andmoney, Amethyst will be able to help.

Visit the web site www.amethystsystems.net for moreinformation or give one of the team a ring 01275 390416 todiscuss your requirements.

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Are you ready?Are you a landlord or do you occupy rented commercial property?

Are you aware of recent and forthcoming legislation to improveenergy efficiency, with particular relevance to commercial property?

ESOS or the Energy Savings Opportunity Scheme – wasimplemented from December 2014, with compliance beingmandatory for the 1st Phase from December 2015. Thelegislation makes it a legal requirement for non-SME companiesto perform an energy audit every four years.

The government will also be introducing measures in 2018under which commercial real estate buildings with an energyperformance certificate (EPC) at level F or below cannot beleased after 2018 without significant efficiency improvementworks being undertaken. Commercial property landlords willtherefore, be turning to a suite of alternatives to address therequired Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) StandardAssessment Procedure (SAP) points.

There are improvements that could save energy depend onyour property, but typical examples include insulation, heating,draught-proofing, double glazing LED lighting and renewableenergy generation through either solar panels or heat pumps.

As a business landlord which should you choose? From ananalysis from EPC Choice, “A 50 kW system will raise you froma E to a D, with a 100 kW and 250 kW solar PV system raisingyou to C & B respectively. The addition of Solar PV can providethe single most significant increase to the EPC rating of atypical building (or warehouse).”

As an occupier, improvements to the energy efficiency of yourbuilding, highlighted under the ESOS scheme are well worthconsidering given that, 24% of financial directors believe their most

recent electricity bill was more than they had expected. It’s the word“expect” that is of key interest here. All businesses would like toforecast their outgoings, yet with energy costs spiralling, this isproving almost impossible. But thankfully there are solutions.

Solar PV is theperfect way toreduce your energybills, cut CO2emissions, andensure that at leastpart of your electricityrequirements will bemet whatever ishappening to thegrid. With EPC SAPpoints solar is one of

the easiest and most proven technologies to implement. Thesystem is quick to install with minimal impact on the business, notonly increasing the efficiency of the building but also future proofingyour energy needs. Because solar generation is stable and easilymodelled we can accurately forecast the number of units a systemwill generate over its 20 year lifetime. By dividing the number of unitsby the system cost we can calculate a cost per unit, a price that issignificantly lower than the current market rate for grid connectedelectricity. In essence, installing solar PV enables you to pre-purchase power today at a fixed unit cost, protecting businessesfrom energy price rises in the future.

The huge uptake in solar panels for businesses is testament tothe reliability and strong returns offered by solar PV. With nomoving parts solar panels have long warranties and providepredictable long-term electricity generation. Coupled with thelarge roof spaces and high on-site energy demand of mostcommercially-let premises, solar PV is a proven way to reducecosts, protect your business against future price rises, anduplift your EPC points with minimal hassle. Please contact usat Your Power on 01225 667 151 or at www.yourpoweruk.comto get a quote today.

yourpowera your group company

"With over 5,000 installations completed wespecialise in battery storage, commercial scale solarPV, and construction sector programmes"

"Nominated for Regen SW 2015 Installer of the Year &Green Energy Awards Green Entrepreneur of the Year"

Key Partnerships Include - DPD, Wessex Water, Duchy of Cornwall, Lombard, NatWest, Carillion,Good Energy, Midas, Bristol County Council

kWp Solar PV Pre Install EPC rating Post Install EPC rating

50 E D100 E C

250 E B

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Anton Saws and Machinery Ltd is a specialist supplier ofindustrial sawing machinery and related equipment.

Formed in 1986, the Hampshire / Wiltshireborder based Company, is the UK’s soleagent for the MACC range of circularsawing machines and both horizontal andvertical bandsawing machines.

With an impressive 50 plus models, Italianmanufacturers MACC, are regarded as oneof the best in the world at producingsawing machinery.

Anton Saws hold stocks of the most popular models at theirworks, together with any spares required.

To view the range of new and used machines on offer, visit theiron–line shop to check out the latest machines that have arrived instore www.antonsaws.co.uk

T: 01264 358883 E: [email protected]

www.ol iverandsanders.co.uk“Proud to support Anton Saws & Machinery”

To compliment the machines on offer, Anton Saws can adviseand supply associated items such as blades, roller tracking and coolants.

Anton Saws pride themselves on their customer service; theirengineers are able to offer comprehensive Servicing,Breakdown and Repairs to any sawing machine and machinetool at your works or alternatively a complete refurbishment intheir well-equipped workshops.

Telephone Support – 01264 850490If you need any help or advise as to the right product for you.Then give them a call now and they'll do their best to help you.

Please visit the website – www.antonsaws.co.uk

Your workplace needs to be a clean, safe and pleasantenvironment for you, your workforce and any visitors to yourpremises, yet cleaning is often either an ad-hoc activity, ordelegated to an in house cleaner, without much thought as towhat the task really entails, such as who cleans the windows, inand out, who will get coffee stains out of the carpets, and whathappens when the cleaner is off sick and so on.

Investing in the services of a reliable professional commercialcleaning company removes all these concerns and ensures thatyour premises are always clean, fresh and business ready.

Cleaning Enterprise has been providing quality office andcommercial cleaning for 40 years since being established in1976. They also provide cleaning services to gyms, factories andretail premises. The company has expanded over the years andnow effectively manages multiple contracts across the Wiltshireand Somerset region from their base in Frome.

Guy Chesshire, MD extends a warm welcome to companies of allsizes to contact them to discuss their requirements, saying“Whether you’re looking for scheduled cleaning or a one-off deepclean we’d love to talk to you to see if we can help. We specialisein daily office cleaning, factory cleaning, retail cleaning and gym cleaning”

Discuss with Guy the range of ancillary services they offer suchas carpet cleaning, consumables supply (toilet rolls, hand towels,

P e a r s o n M a y

� 01225 764441� [email protected]

� www.pearsonmay.co.uk

Chartered Accountants& Chartered Tax Advisers

“Proud to supportCleaning Enterprise”

soap, dishwasher tablets etc.), hygiene washroom services,window cleaning and many more.

For more information please visit the web sitecleaningenterprise.com or give them a call on 01373 832257.

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The Languagesof GrowthIs it courteous, let alone productive,to attempt to build a tradingrelationship with an overseascompany without a basic grasp oftheir language on the assumption thatthey speak English well enough?

As a nation we are being encouraged toexport but are poor language skillsstymying our efforts. Trade, after all, is allabout communication.

It has been predicted that the competitiveadvantage of English will ebb and thatmonolingual English speakers, unable totap into the multilingual environmentsenjoyed by others, will face a bleakeconomic future.

Studies for the European Commission haveshown that the economic benefits ofcompetence in more than one language arenot limited to English, and that a wide rangeof languages are needed to exploit thebenefits of the single market and keepimproving trade between peoples worldwide.

Even when others have a high level ofproficiency in English, this does not meanthat their languages can be ignored. In orderto develop relations between countries andindividuals based on mutual respect andtrust, as well as to do business effectively,there is a need for an understanding of thesocial, political, and technical systems of acountry, as well as the innumerable aspectsof daily life that are important to that nation’sidentity and culture.

As Nelson Mandela said, ‘If you talk to aman in a language he understands, thatgoes to his head. If you talk to him in hisown language that goes to his heart.’

A recent report from the British Councilanalysing economic and cultural indicatorssuggests not that people in the UK arelearning the wrong languages, but that weneed far more people learning a muchwider range of languages in the future.

French, Spanish and German will continueto be important but we will also needsignificantly more Arabic, MandarinChinese and Portuguese speakers as wellas speakers of Italian, Japanese, Russianand Turkish.

Current indicators predict a decline in theChinese economy but growth in trade fromthe Indian sub-continent, so we can andshould add Indian languages to the list.

In some more cheerful statistics in thiscontext, the top ten languages spoken byschoolchildren in the UK consist of fourfrom the Indian subcontinent (Panjabi, Urdu,Gujarati and Bengali), three from Europe(Polish, French and Portuguese), andArabic, Tamil and Somali. The linguisticskills of these children need to be taken intoaccount in any consideration of howlanguage skills can be developed toenhance future cultural and economiccontacts between the UK and countrieswhere these languages are spoken.

It is worth remembering that when we thinkof languages in the UK, we tend to think of‘going away’. However, given that Japanesecar manufacturers, Chinese infrastructuredevelopers and French utility companies allmake huge contributions in the UK, you donot need to cross the equator or even theEnglish Channel to find situations and jobswhere even a little Chinese, Japanese, orFrench can be a real career enhancer.

The council’s report identified a list of tenlanguages which will be of crucialimportance for the UK’s prosperity, securityand influence in the world in the yearsahead and identified 4 key areas ofparticular relevance for international trade.

1. Current UK export trade 2. The language needs of UK business 3. UK government trade priorities 4. Emerging high growth markets

From the analysis of languages againstthese indicators comes a list of the tenmost important languages for the UK’sfuture; in order: 1 Spanish 2 Arabic 3French 4 Mandarin Chinese 5 German 6Portuguese 7 Italian 8= Russian 8= Turkish10 Japanese

A survey commissioned by the BritishCouncil for this report suggests that threequarters of the UK public are unable tospeak any of these languages well enough tohold a conversation. These findings suggestthat the UK needs to develop its citizens’competence in a wider range of languages,and in far greater numbers, in order to reapthe economic and cultural benefits availableto those who have these skills.

The conclusion of this analysis is that theUK must take a strategic approach inplanning for effective development of thelanguage capacity which this countryneeds. This has implications for businesses,in that they should invest in thedevelopment of the language skills fromwhich they will directly benefit.


29

Bristol is one of the UK’s most dynamic and enterprising cities. Allaround, ambitious companies are investing in equipment and officespace, hiring new staff and seizing the opportunity to expand.

As any business owner will know, this is an exciting but risky time. Thechallenge is to find a way to grow sales and reach new markets, withoutincurring bad debt, jeopardising your cash flow position or committingdisproportionate resources to chasing late payers.

Working with a credit risk specialist is the most cost-effective way to mitigaterisk and allows you to focus on the most financially healthy prospects.

A broker’s viewOne of the best ways to obtain credit insurancecover is through a specialist broker. Established inClevedon in 1992, LDPA are the leading creditinsurance broker in the South West, with a clientbase of more than 200 businesses. Director, TomRolfe, describes LDPA clients as predominantlyowner-managed businesses with turnover of up to£20million who are looking to grow. He believesthere is a compelling case for credit insurance forthese expanding businesses.

While the continued economic recovery has boostedconfidence and improved the conditions for growth,Tom warns companies not to underestimate tradingrisk. He reflects: “Our recent experience is that thelevel of bad debt is back in line with pre-recessionstatistics but this is misleading. Every time acompany fails, there are always suppliers who areleft with bad debts and yet no one ever thinks it willbe their customer.”

The necessity to supply goods on credit termsmakes it impossible for businesses to grow withoutincreasing the value of their debtor book. However,Tom counsels against setting aside funds to mitigatebad debt. He argues: “It isn’t an effective use ofworking capital for companies at a time when theyreally need to maximise their assets. By contrast,credit insurance cover allows companies to tradesecurely and drive their business forward.”

LDPA’s role is to help clients find the best creditinsurance policy for their business, as Tom explains: “As brokers, we review the credit insurance market on our customers’ behalf to helpthem get the right policy and the best value. To dothis we look at factors such as whether thecustomer’s sales are wholly domestic or if theyexport and the efficiency of their existing internalcredit management procedures.”

He adds: “When Coface is the right choice forclients, they tell us the policy is a very comfortable fitand some report that the credit insurance premiumpays for itself because it includes collections services and other benefits. We have a number ofclients who have been with the same insuranceprovider for 10 years and a high proportion areCoface policyholders.”

For further information about Coface,

call 01923 478111 or visit www.cofaceuk.com

For further information

about LDPA, call

01275 872553 or

email [email protected]

Coface has years of experience in helping growingbusinesses to trade safely. Our wrap-around creditmanagement cover supports you at every stage of a credit transaction:

• Credit risk information to help you make informed decisionsabout the creditworthiness of customers;

• Credit insurance to protect you from losses arising from bad debt because of a domestic or overseas customer’s insolvency or protracted late payment

• Payment collections in the UK and overseas, in a timely andcost-effective manner.

Growing businesses need to generate sales and maximise theirworking capital but this can be difficult if valuable resources mustbe diverted to chase late payers and cover possible bad debts.With the help of Bristol credit insurance broker, LDPA, Coface’sGrant Williams explains how credit insurance gives you morefreedom to grow.

Insure and grow


30

Not All Translation Services are Created Equal!

Sally Walker Language Services offers some advice whenchoosing a translation agency.

UK Business is being encouraged to reach out to overseasmarkets, but is it realistic to assume that we will be able tocommunicate sufficiently well to achieve our goals?

With the growth in trade to Europe it has never been moreimportant to be able to communicate effectively in otherlanguages, and, let’s face it; few of us have the gift of tongues!So are UK companies missing out a large proportion of theirpotential marketplace?

English is so widely spoken that we can become somewhatcomplacent as a nation, but there is a great difference betweenspoken English, and written English, particularly when it comesto technical translations, as in the case of the Hong Kongbusiness authorized to conduct business on the behind ofBloggs and Co, rather than on their behalf!

We may smile, but we are talking, or in this case writing, aboutyour business, and silly little slipshod errors may badly affectthe image you present to potential overseas customers.

Even if translation services are only an intermittent requirementfor your business, it is vitally important that your translationservice is professional and reliable, but how can you tell? A toptip is to ask whether the company is a member of anyprofessional bodies. Groups such as the UK Institute ofTranslation and Interpreting (ITI), carry out stringent qualitychecks before approving members.

A professional agency will employ translators who work into theirmother tongue, which is crucial if we for the avoidance of error.

Slight nuances, well known phrases, metaphors and specificcultural reference will be best understood by native speakers.Sometimes, literal translation can result in funny or evenoffensive text; native speakers won’t make those mistakes.

A reputable agency will ask you the purpose of the translationto ensure the end product is appropriate its audience. Whilstsome agencies will happily translate all 100 pages if you askthem to, it’s worth asking yourself whether a shorter slimmeddown version of the original would suffice. Think too about yourtarget audience, how much information do they actually need?

A professional translation manager will request a full brief, and itis well worth taking the time to ensure they understand thepurpose of the piece to be translated. Translators work moreeffectively if they know the full story. Let them know who will bereading the translation, where and in what context. Simplyrequesting a translation will not give the same outcome.

In the advertising world customers often request a“transcreation”, a translation made suitable for a culturallydifferent consumer. It may have different nuances, idioms orsimply use language differently, what works in one languagecan be offensive or confusing in another.

Connecting with people in their own terms, using the right toneand taking into account differing religions and buyingbehaviours are all crucial variables to be considered. Rarely willa simple translation into each chosen language suffice.

Contact Sally Walker Language Services for professionalconstructive help with your overseas trading communications

01179734742, email [email protected] orvisit the web site www.sallywalker.co.uk


31

JaLee First Aid Training iscelebrating its 10th year ofbusiness!

The owners, Julie Everett andLee Swinson, are proud tohave developed theirbusiness over a decade andJaLee has grown year onyear despite a toughrecession.

Lee said “I believe the key to our success is flexibility and greatservice – being an independent provider means we care abouteverything that happens in our business. Julie and I arepersonally available by phone or email to every single customerand our repeat business is a testament to happy clients.”

Julie and Lee have built an exceptional team to deliver theirtraining. As Lee explained, “Our amazing team has an immenseknowledge of their subject – we have two Paramedics, a GP,an Ambulance Technician, three Nurses, four Community FirstResponders and an ex Fire Fighter plus Sports specialistsincluding a Physio and an Osteopath. All are experiencedprofessional trainers who provide hands on instruction in a funand enjoyable way using up-to-date and hygienic equipment,and in addition to hands on experience they all have relevantteaching qualifications and DBS checks.”

JaLee is accredited byboth an Ofqual awardingorganisation and aprofessional industrybody enabling them todeliver training to thehighest level. Althoughthey have the sameaccredited trainingstatus as the largeorganisations, theyare very different!Julie and Lee take avery personal and

individual approach totraining and are able to incorporate more

flexibility and top quality training at a far lower cost than manylarger organisations.

JaLee offers the statutory Emergency First Aid at Work 6 hourcourse with a certificate on completion, suitable for businesses,offices and shops, employees working off site, the Self-Employed and anyone wanting to learn first aid in order to beable to assist in an emergency situation. This course is

available at various locationsor can be delivered on thecustomer’s premises. Itcomplies with the provisionsof the Health and Safety(First-Aid) Regulations1981 requiring employersto provide adequate and appropriate equipment, facilities andpersonnel to ensure their employees receive immediateattention if they are injured or taken ill at work.

With an impressive customer database,JaLee delivers training to some of thelargest businesses in the South Westand beyond plus the MOD, Schools,Colleges and County Councils. “Our smaller customers are just asimportant to us” said Lee. “Welove to help with Community firstaid too and deliver a lot of freetraining to benefit localcommunities such asdefibrillator training for villagehalls. We also recentlydelivered a private 2hrsession on baby first aid for parents-to-be who were going to be induced the nextday! We love the variety in our job.”

Lee said “10 years ago ourstrap line was ‘Know what todo!’ and nothing has changed.Good first aid saves lives!”

Do get in touch, they are thereto help, 03303 230 240,[email protected]

JaLeeJaLeeJaLeeFirst Aid Training

“Know What To Do!”

Celebrating 10years of helping

businesses!


32

In a recent study by BUPA three quartersof employers conceded that an unhealthyworkforce is a business risk, yet one inthree offer no workplace health support.The study unveiled a gap betweenemployers’ beliefs and actions when itcomes to workplace health. Of the 1,762employers from the UK, Australia, NewZealand, Poland and Spain who took partin the study, three in four (73%) agreedthat a healthy workforce is a moreproductive one. Yet, one in three (30%) ofthe 17,800 employees spoken to saidtheir employer offers no health orwellbeing benefits.

It seems that employers could be missingout on the benefits of workplace healthinitiatives. Around half of the employeespolled (48%) said they would be moreproductive if they felt healthier, suggestingthat workplace health is a win-win foremployers and employees.

Nearly two in five employees (34%) saidthat their job has a negative impact ontheir physical health, and one in three(31%) said it has a negative impact ontheir mental health. Indeed stress israpidly overtaking back pain as a majorcause of absenteeism.

Apart from the responsibility employersmay feel to mitigate these effects it makesgood business sense to institute healthcare awareness programmes to improvethe health of your work force. A workplacehealth program aimed at keepingemployees healthy is a key long-termhuman asset management strategy.

“It’s becoming really clear from an empiricalstandpoint that when you take care ofpeople, it works,” says Jeff Klein, CEO ofWorking for Good, “Whatever you do toserve and support the people who work withand for you, that tells them you care. Whenpeople feel cared about, they come alive.And that makes workers more engaged andmore productive, and it becomes a virtuous— and prosperous — cycle.”

An organized, employer-sponsoredprogram should be designed to supportemployees (and, sometimes, their families)as they adopt and sustain behaviours thatreduce health risks, improve quality of life,enhance personal effectiveness andbenefit the organization’s bottom line.

Workplace health programs includepolicies intended to facilitate employeehealth, including allowing time forexercise, providing on-site kitchens andeating areas, offering healthful foodoptions in vending machines, holding"walk and talk" meetings, and offeringfinancial and other incentives forparticipation.

Many companies outsource orsupplement healthcare programmes byintroducing regular visits from specialistoccupational health providers, or by

providing subsidised gym memberships.Companies are also seeing the benefits ofinvesting in the kinds of specialisthealthcare insurance for their employeeswhich offer lower premiums in return forhealthy life style changes.

Training courses in assertiveness, decisionmaking and relationship skills have alsobeen shown to be really productive inreducing workplace stress. In researchfrom America, job stress is estimated tocost U.S. industry more than $300 billiona year in absenteeism, turnover,diminished productivity, and medical, legaland insurance costs. And, according tothe American Psychological Association,52 percent of Americans report that theyhave considered workplace stress asignificant factor when looking for a newjob, declining a promotion or leaving a jobaltogether.

Dr Fiona Adshead, director of wellbeingand public health, BUPA said: “There isenormous potential for ensuring morepeople adopt healthier lifestyles and reducetheir risk of chronic disease by engagingthem in their place of work. What’s more,smart employers know that healthieremployees come to work, perform at theirbest and go the extra mile.”

Across the countries included in the BUPAstudy, 14% of employees said they hadtaken action on their lifestyle because of ahealth campaign run by their employer,demonstrating that the workplace hasgreat potential for changing unhealthyhabits and improving global health

With half the world’s population inemployment, helping people to behealthier at work has obvious potential totransform the world’s health.

A Healthier Bottom Line

Your employees are your most valuable resource,and ideally, the office should be a place protectingtheir safety and well-being while providing themwith opportunities for better long-term health.

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Video ProductionBranded ContentAnimationEventsTraining VideosVR & Interactive

Working closely with clients to deliver tailored content

- Virgin Trains

- Design Wales

Studio 13-18 Douglas WorkshopsRoyal Stuart Lane Cardiff CF10 5EL

t | 0800 073 0021 e | [email protected]

onparproductions.co.uk

32 Osborn Street Brick LaneLondon E1 6TE

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Team building can be thought of as anexpensive time – wasting activity awayfrom base, an opportunity to hit the baron company time, or even worse at thecompany’s expense, or a valuable andcost productive exercise.

In this article we hope to show that a well-planned and structured event can paydividends in inter office communication andgeneral staff relations, leading to greaterproductivity.

Team building exercises have been provento improve communication by breakingdown barriers between individuals throughgroup participation in activities. People whoare not used to working together get achance to participate and work as a teamand to co-operate with each other. Byworking through a task, members get achance to display skills that they are notnormally required to use and to develop newways of working together. The challenge ofa new experience also requires employeesto collaborate and work together in closeproximity, which helps to developrelationships quickly.

Team building provides a chance for theteam to participate together in anexperience where everyone starts with anequal level of knowledge about the giventask. It can be very beneficial to companycohesion to find that the MD is actuallypretty good at hands-on tasks, and has agood sense of humour, that the shy juniorfrom accounts is an unexpectedly good

organiser, and that Bob from the LoadingBay has a talent for word games. Thenovelty of the situation requires people todraw on and create team process skills inorder to complete tasks successfully.

In a busy working environment, it can bedifficult for employees to develop new skillsand managers often do not have time todiscover what skills and attributes their teammembers possess.

Team building can offer team members achance to show where their true talents lie,with members of a team expressingabilities in roles that they are naturallysuited to, for example, some people arebest at focusing on the team objectivesand delegating work, while others are mosteffective at checking finished work forerrors. Team-building activities can evenallow each member of the team a chanceto take charge of an activity and displayleadership skills.

Team building allows each member of theteam to develop and focus on what they arebest at, and allows the team members tofind their niche within the team, so thateveryone can best contribute as anindividual while still performing together. Itwould be a poor manager indeed that didn’trecognise and record these abilities to usefor future training and developmentopportunities within the organisation

Team-building activities provide high-impactlearning, increase team skills and

Teamwork

communications, and improve morale andproductivity. Employees benefit throughexperiencing a sense of accomplishment inworking as a group to complete achallenging task and learning ways toimprove communication skills. Team buildingallows employees to return to the officereinvigorated and with a new set ofproblem-solving skills.

To get the most benefit from the exercise,talk to your heads of department anddecide between yourselves what you wantto achieve from the event and discuss yourobjectives with the event co-ordinator atyour chosen venue. They will have a wealthof ideas and suggestions to put forward foran exciting and memorable event.

Research has shown that a strong team canlead to major gains for every business. Theseinclude the ability to maximize profitability byallowing individuals to better combine theirskills to achieve more; meeting crossfunctional challenges and being able torespond quicker to rapid change; retainingthe best people by giving everyone a greatersense of involvement and belonging; andempowering teams to become more missionfocused and to achieve more with less savingtime and money.

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A conference in a castlesounds a truly excitingoption for your importantcorporate event, butthere’s nothing remotelymediaeval about theservice and facilities foundat Bovey Castle.

Everything is firmly 21stcentury, with a wealth ofmodern equipment, digital

technology and range of options available from this luxurious andcomfortable Devon venue - which is actually Edwardian.

The attention to detail and outstanding service provided at thisstunning house, on Dartmoor National Park, draws guests fromall over the world for business and pleasure.

And for corporate guests, the added bonus of extensivegrounds and a championship golf course means extra options,such as team building and golf days, are available.

Bovey Castle is renowned for possessing some of the finestmeeting and conference facilities in the country, ranging fromstylish contemporary boardrooms to the most outstandingintegrated presentation facilities for up to 120 delegates.

The range of private dining rooms or the Castle’s lodge, with theirpromise of undisturbed privacy, are also popular choices forsmaller syndicates and breakout meetings. The hotel also offers abespoke alternative pricing structure for such smaller gatherings.

It has three flagship suites. The Dartmoor Suite is designed formultipurpose use, be it meeting, conference, exhibition orcelebration, and can hold a maximum of 120 people in atheatre configuration.

The Fernworthy is the largest of Bovey Castle’s syndicaterooms and can comfortably accommodate 30 while the theBowden and Hambleden rooms are perfect for smallermeetings and breakout sessions or workshops.

All rooms are bathed in natural light and enjoy air conditioning, acomprehensive business support system and the discreet andimpeccable service from the Castle’s friendly, professional staff.

Every one also has a range of ICT solutions; the smaller roomsequipped with plasma screens while full presentation theatresolutions are available in the Dartmoor Suite, with rovingmicrophones integrated onto LCD tablets to facilitate the mostprofessional of presentations.

Bose sound systems are standard as are DVD and VCRfacilities alongside wireless or CAT5 connectivity for computergenerated presentations or video conferencing.

Customers wanting to combine work and play can do so withease. The expert events team can arrange for a conference tobe followed by on-site activities, dining and eveningentertainment for delegates.

For those wishing to entertain clients on the golf course, arange of day packages are available or organisers can speak toone of the golf pros about organising a bespoke event.

Customers don’t have to take their golf clubs to experience theGreat Outdoors as part of their gathering. Here are 275-acresto explore, not to mention nearby Dartmoor, making BoveyCastle the perfect location for groups to experience interactiveand challenging activities that test their communication skillsand ability to overcome obstacles.

You can take your pick from a range of exciting options including:Sports Day Revisited, Woodland Survival, Paintballing and FerretRacing, and end the fun by reminiscing on the day’s activities in oneof the hotel restaurants before enjoying an overnight stay in one ofthe 63 individually designed luxurious rooms.

There’s certainly a whole host of choice - whatever you have inmind for your corporate event, and budget available, BoveyCastle can help.

For information go to www.boveycastle.com, where you canalso download brochure. Alternatively call the events team on01647 445098 or email [email protected]

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AT CHELTENHAM RACECOURSE

01242 539538 WWW.CHELTENHAM.CO.UK

Free Wi-Fi Free Car Parking Free Racing for delegates Capacity 2 - 2,200 people

Located in Cheltenham town centre Perfect for Conferencing Beautiful location Ideal for Exhibitions and

Banqueting Awards dinners

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Maximise your team building event at Ashton Court Mansion.

Being the persondelegated to run ateam building eventcan fill the stoutestheart with dread,but the team atAshton CourtMansion arebrimming with ideasto ensure your daygoes with swing.

The importance of working as a team is well recognised andwhile team building events can play a key role in bringing yourteam together, it is important that activities are carefullystructured to achieve company goals and tackle weaknesses,rather than just a jolly.

Ice Breaker activities are a great way to get bigger teams tolearn each other’s names, find out interesting things about oneanother, and help people to begin new relationships. They are aperfect way to kick off, providing a way to establish commonground between participants, and build confidence quickly togain maximum benefit from the day.

Decide on which activities would be the most beneficial for yourteam and goals. Jodi Bryce, Ashton Court’s events maestro,advises: “The key to maximising the benefits of a team event isdefining your objectives at the planning stage. Work out whatyour colleagues do on a daily basis and what needs improving,whether it be general company cohesion, effectivecommunication or strategic planning. Tailor your activity aroundthat goal.”

Ashton CourtMansion is one ofBristol’s leadingconference centres,offering a range ofpackages to helpbusinesses maximisetheir investment;indoors or out, thereis plenty of space foryour chosenactivities. Away fromthe office, themansion’s Gothicsplendour brings outthe best inparticipants.

Set in acres ofparkland, there’splenty of space forimaginative outdooractivities, whetherit’s disc golf, archery,orienteering or evenazombie escape.

“We take pride in creating events that stand out from thecrowd, capitalising on our elegant city-country location,” saysJodi. “Whether you need simple space hire or support indesigning a bespoke event, we’re on hand to help, togetherwith carefully chosen partners, making sure everything goesseamlessly on the day.”

Your colleagues may surprise each other with their talents: theMD may turn out to be a dab hand at duck herding, Pete fromthe loading bay may show an unexpected talent forwatercolours and the admin junior may have a knack fororganisation and three dimensional thinking.

A delicious barbeque or sit-down meal prepared by the residentchefs will make a great finale, giving everyone a chance to talkit all over and cement new working relationships. The mansionkitchen has a local food policy, sourcing only top qualityingredients from within a 60 mile radius so you can be assuredof food that is tasty, wholesome and ethically sourced.

The team building events offered by Ashton Court mansion bringproven results as Jodi says; “We have a diverse mix of colleagueshere at Ashton Court so we understand the importance of acohesive team. Team building events are a fantastic way to inject abit of fun into the workplace and pull everyone together. We seeinstant results every time we host one of these events, regardlesswhich activity is chosen. Colleagues leave buzzing with new ideasand potential collaborations.”

Ashton Court is offering a new package for 2016 with bespokeoptions starting from just £35 per person for a full day event.

For more information on the team building package, please visitwww.ashtoncourtmansion.co.uk Photo Credit:

www.norsworthyweddings.com

Photo Credit: www.norsworthyweddings.com

12680_HorseWorld 16/12/2015 13:44 Page 1

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For further information:029 2041 6181/2

conferenceservices@cardi�met.ac.ukwww.cardiffmet.ac.uk/conferences

� � � �

Looking for a Venue? Can we help?

Meet @Cardiff Met Conferences

Whether planning a residentialconference, exhibition, meeting ortraining session Cardiff MetConferences have purpose built,contemporary facilities and afriendly and experienced team toensure a successful event.

Facilities include numerous break-out rooms and tiered lecturetheatres, a dedicated conferencesuite, a self-contained hospitalitysuite, IT training rooms, exhibitionspace and extensive indoor andoutdoor sports facilities.

The Conference Suite at CyncoedCampus has been fully refurbishedoffering fresh and contemporarymeeting rooms. The ConferenceSuite is an ideal venue for meetings,training sessions and small tomedium sized conferences. Allthree rooms provide the samefurnishings, with natural daylightand optimal in-room lighting, freeWifi together with the latest built-inaudio-visual equipment. All roomsare located on the ground floor andclose to the main reception.

“We have used Cardiff Met's Trainingand Conference facilities for manyyears - we keep coming backbecause the rooms are so bright andairy, nothing is too much trouble andthe pricing is very competitive".

In addition to the dedicated suite there are extensive conference facilities on two sites,both close to Cardiff City Centre,with easy access from the M4 andon-site parking.

Llandaff Campus is an idealCorporate Conference Venue, with a large ground floor Atriumideal for exhibitions andnetworking. The building houses a purpose built tiered LectureTheatre that seats 200 andnumerous breakout rooms.

Cyncoed Campus has top classsports facilities, newly refurbished en-suite bedrooms and a licensed bar, making it an ideal venue for residentialconferences and sport events.

An extensive range of hospitalityoptions including hot and coldbuffets, self-service meals andconference dinners are available tosuit all events and budgets. Food isof a high standard with ‘Eat Well’healthy eating options and menus to suit all dietary requirements. Avariety of B&B, half board or fullboard packages are available.

Take advantage of our Early BirdOffer! Book now and receive 10%off room hire for 2016 Conferencesand Events. Subject to availability,terms and conditions apply. QuoteBP16 at time of booking.

� Conferences

� Team Meetings

� Training Sessions

� Away Days

� Exhibitions

� Sports Events

� Summer Accommodation

MEET @ CARDIFF MET CONFERENCES

09:57 Page 112664_HorseWorld 02/12/2015 09:24 Page 1

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Your Event, Your Way

Tortworth Court Four Pillars Hotel at Wotton-Under-Edge, nearBristol provides a four star location for your event whether amajor conference and team building exercise or a smallermeeting for a select few.

The hotel is a beautifulgrade II* listed VictorianCotswold mansion, setwithin 30 acres of parklandwith its own arboretum,and its long history ofhospitality includes a firstrate reputation for hostingsuccessful events.

Their conference facilities include a range of meeting rooms, allwith the characteristic style and period charm of Tortworth Court,but fully equipped with the state-of-the-art technology that today’sbusinesses require, while the grounds provide plenty of space foroutdoor activities and team building events.

For an extra special meeting conference or event, the hotel’soffering has now been enhanced by the historical, self-containedOrangery, originally built in 1899 as a lavish conservatory tohouse exotic shrubs and plants, the Orangery is the perfectchoice of venue for all private dinners, functions and events.

In to-day’s fast moving and time poor business environment,meetings often need to become multi-purpose, leading to aheightened requirement for venues able to adapt toconferences or events with a combined focus. Tortworth CourtHotel is able to offer just that flexibility, being able to host ahuge range of conferences, business events, outdoor activities,large displays and exhibitions.

From a small board meeting to a multi-day conference with teambuilding activities and evening entertainment, Tortworth Court hasthe facilities and expertise to make your event a success.

Speak to a team member about your requirements; with over30 years’ experience of hosting successful events you can trust

in their expertise. Explain what you want to achieve, thenumbers and types of folk who will be attending, all shop floor,all management or a mixture and the budget you have setaside for the event.

The expert event organisers will then be able to advise onbuilding an event to meet your needs, and on the cateringoptions available, from fine dining to buffet style, the choice isyours. A setting as grand as Tortworth Court demands the finestcuisine, and the chefs, pride themselves on creating delectabledishes using the very finest locally sourced ingredients.

If you are considering a team building event, the mostsuccessful are often those where members of staff mix whowouldn’t normally. Thus helping managers to develop theirleadership skills and enhancing their relationship with their staff.Whether a physical or a mental challenge, indoor or outdoor, ashort interlude or the focus of the whole event, Tortworth Courthas an exciting and varied range of activities, from gastronomyto movie making, falconry to ‘It’s a Knockout’.

It doesn’t come any better, superb conference venue, luxuryaccommodation, a choice of two restaurants and a luxuriousspa in which to relax and let the stresses of the business daybe smoothed away

Tortworth Court Four Pillars Hotel is part of the Four Pillarsgroup of luxury hotels which has created “Meetings Four You”,a meetings, conferences and events offering that can betailored to suit you. Start with one of their packages - frominclusive 8 and 24 hour options to ‘meetings by the hour’ -then add whatever you like from the comprehensive range ofoptional extras. It means that you get complete flexibility, greatvalue and that you only pay for the things you need.

For more information, to download a brochure or to book please visit the web site, www.tortworthcourthotel.co.ukTo speak to a member of the events team please ring 0845 600 7071

Simply Stunning SettingFour Pillars Tortworth Court Hotel

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Whatever youare looking forfrom a resorthotel, the ManorHouse Hotel andthe AshburyHotel have got itcovered.

The two hotelsprovide anunrivalled range of

Sport, Craft, Leisure and Spa facilities, especiallythe Ashbury Hotel’s exceptional golfing provision; itis the UK's largest golf resort, boasting a total of 99holes of exceptional golf, over 400 buggies andincomparable facilities.

Both hotels have gone to exceptional lengths toprovide all round packages that offer outstandingvalue for money with no hidden extras, meaning fullboard and unlimited free use of all the on-sitefacilities. So whether you just want a break in theheart of the glorious Devon countryside, a familyholiday, an action filled break, some pampering, orto learn a new craft you can be sure that everythinghas been thought of.

Their activity programmes cater for all levels frombeginners to enthusiasts across a huge variety ofsports and crafts so you are bound to find there'ssomething just right for you, from Badminton to Water Polo, Pottery to Watercolour Painting,Bollywood dancing to Zumba the resort offers over 50different activities.

Groups of 8 and over can even pre-book an activity.

At the end of a busy day, relax and unwind in thefantastic NEW Hydro Spa. Facilities include SteamRoom, Fragranced Sauna, Infra-Red Sauna andstate of the art Hydro Pool with 8 different jets andmassagers, and the best bit, it’s all included.

Then enjoy a delicious, freshly prepared meal,perhaps with a couple of glasses of wine, andeither make an evening of it enjoying the eveningentertainments, go for a walk around the grounds,or catch up on your favourite TV programme before snuggling down for a good night’s sleep, inyour comfortable en-suite bedroom or family suite,complete with TV, tea/coffee facilities, telephonesand safes.

It doesn’t come much better.

You can tailor your break to suit your particular interests, or play it by ear,have a look at the web site www.manorhousehotel.co.uk or request abrochure, for ideas of some of the activities you might like to try.

For group or family events please enquire about their group discounts.

Corporate

The extensive facilities and highly experienced staff lend themselves tocorporate golf days, conferences, events and team building away days orweekends. Discuss your requirements with the team, from intimatemeetings of 10 delegates to larger events for up to 250, they will ensureyour event goes without a hitch.

The perfect base for an array of outdoor teambuilding activities, they cantailor make all courses on an individual basis to meet each organiser’sneeds. Plus, they can also accommodate a fantastic range of indooractivities too - so there’s no need to worry about the weather!

Activities Include:

&TheManor

House

AshburyHotels

- The Only Sport, Craft & Spa -Hotels in the UK

Team Sports

• 5-A-Side Football

• Basketball

• Volleyball

• Netball

• Rounders

• Continuous Cricket

• Water Polo

• Badminton

• Short Tennis

Indoor Activities

• Air Rifles

• Air Pistols

• Archery

• Laser Shooting

Outdoor Activities

• Guided Walks

• Orienteering

Off-site Activities

• Rock climbing & Abseiling

• High Ropes

• Water Sports

• Horse Riding

• Pony Trekking

For all conferencing enquiries please call Phil on 0800 955 0284or alternatively email [email protected] he will be happy to help.

12653_HorseWorld 07/12/2015 09:43 Page 1

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www.chfoods.co.uk

Wales’ leading independent food wholesaler Are pleased to supply Lauren’s Catering and

wish them continued successOrder Line:

01269 846080 Luxury Welsh Dairy Ice Cream

Castell Howell Foods Ltd

Lauren’s Catering, the popular, family run, Gloucestershirecaterers, is nothing if not versatile. Founded in 1993 as a smalltakeaway sandwich shop, the company has expanded tobecome one of Gloucestershire’s leading catering companies.

They supply delicious food for corporate buffets, businessmeetings, office parties, and private events, such as weddings,funerals, birthday parties and Christmas parties.

Their contract catering arm supplies employees’ lunches tocompanies, and packed lunches for schools and learning andtraining centres.

It doesn’t stop there either, they have regular contracts tosupply garage forecourts, vending machines and shops, whiletheir fleet of temperature controlled “jiffy” snack vans supplywork places on a daily basis, and all this is in addition to twobusy takeaway shops.

Small wonder then that they needed to expand into larger premisesand on 16th October Lauren’s Catering moved into a new larger uniton Waterwells Business Park, which they had purchased to allow forfurther expansion. In response to customer demand they will beadding to their existing fleet of 7 vans during 2016.

Tony Byrne, who founded Laurens Catering, naming it after hiseldest daughter, brings over 35 years’ experience in theindustry and is supported by a team of professional caterers.

He is very proud to have built the company from its earlybeginnings to the size it is today, and to have maintained theirhigh standards throughout.

For more information, menus and “jiffy” van routes and times pleasevisit www.laurenscatering.co.uk or telephone 01452 382690

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T: 08000 807 809E: [email protected]

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