Apprenticeship Levy 18 | FEATURE - Somerset Chamber
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The Official
Magazine of
Somerset
Chamber of
Commerce
December 2018 / January 2019
Apprenticeship
Levy
18 | FEATURE
6 | PATRON NEWS:
Somerset Chamber announce
Eloquent Technologies as Patrons
11 | FOCUS ON: CONSTRUCTION
Insider perspectives on topical sector issues
26 | MEMBER NEWS:
Company wins at the gardening ‘Oscars’
MAKING THE MOST OF MEMBERSHIP
Profile Raising
SHARE | PROMOTE | GROW
A membership for the entire company.
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T: 01823 444924 E: marketing@somerset-chamber.co.uk
3
CONTENTS
First Word 4
Meet the Team 5
Patron News 6
Chamber News 7-10
Focus On: Construction 11
Members Area 12-17
Feature: 7 | CHAMBER NEWS
Apprenticeship Levy 18-21 LORD TRIESMAN ADDRESSES LOCAL
#WellConnected 22-23
BUSINESSES AT SOMERSET CHAMBER AGM
Members News 26-32
Business News 33
Town Chamber News 34
18 | APPRENTICESHIP LEVY 22 | #WELLCONNECTED
Disclaimer
The views expressed in this magazine are
not necessarily those of the Chamber. This
publication (or any part thereof) may not be
reproduced, transmitted or stored in print or
electronic format (including, but not limited
to, any online service, any database or any
part of the internet), or in any other format
in any media whatsoever, without the
26 | MEMBERS NEWS 33 | BUSINESS NEWS
prior written permission of the publisher.
Although every effort is made to ensure
the accuracy of information contained in
the magazine, Somerset Chamber do not
accept any responsibility for any omissions
or inaccuracies it contains.
Somerset Chamber of Commerce
We are social
Equity House
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Blackbrook Business Park @chambersomerset
Taunton, Somerset TA1 2PX
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E: marketing@somerset-chamber.co.uk
T: 01823 444924
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Design by: Thoroughbred Design & Print, Somerset
Find us on LinkedIn
4
Get in touch
FIRST Marketing
WORD Scarlett Scott-Collins
Marketing and Communications Supervisor
T: 01823 444924
Welcome to the December 2018 / January 2019 issue of Somerset Voice.
E: scarlett.s.collins@somerset-chamber.co.uk
My first few months of being at the Chamber have been both eventful and
insightful. It has been a big priority of mine to get out there and start meeting Stacey Jabbitt
and forging connections with our members, patrons and partners, and as you Marketing and Engagement Administrator
might expect, that has taken me all over the county. While it has been hectic
at times, I am delighted that I’m able to build an even greater understanding T: 01823 444924
of what the businesses, large and small, in our county need. E: stacey.jabbitt@somerset-chamber.co.uk
This edition of Somerset Voice looks at a variety of topics.
Membership
With more changes to the Apprenticeship Levy coming into effect, our Patron
colleges share their advice and thoughts on the changes in funding, the Levy Alistair Tudor
pot and what this means for employers. Head of Chamber Services
Elsewhere, I’m very pleased to welcome Eloquent Technologies as Patrons, and T: 01823 444924 | M: 07912 054195
also Leonardo’s Helicopters who have renewed their Patronage for another year. E: alistair.tudor@somerset-chamber.co.uk
With the announcement of the Chancellor’s recent Autumn Budget, I give my
initial thoughts on what this means for Somerset firms. Ritchie Cridge
Membership Manager
Following our recent AGM, we welcome two newly appointed Board Directors
to the Chamber, who you can read about on Page 15. I offer them my T: 01823 444924 | M: 07706 292143
congratulations, and I am really looking forward to working with them moving into E: ritchie.cridge@somerset-chamber.co.uk
2019. I am also looking forward to another year filled with great Chamber events,
which you can see on Page 12 and 13, and catching up with many of you at those.
Events
I was delighted to be a part of this year’s Somerset Business Awards. The team
worked exceptionally hard and this was reflected on the night. Entries were Loren Gray
up an impressive 36% compared to last year, and it was fantastic to see the Events Manager
achievements of all these amazing businesses from all corners of the county.
As my first Awards, it was truly inspiring to see the vast amount of talent we T: 01823 444924 | M: 07821 950379
have right here in Somerset. E: loren.gray@somerset-chamber.co.uk
You’ll hear from me again on Page 15, where I offer my thoughts on the state of
the high street and summarise my first few months in my role as Chief Executive. Brooke Gilbertson
Events Co-ordinator
From myself and my team, we wish you a happy and prosperous 2019.
T: 01823 444924
Stephen Henagulph
E: brooke.gilbertson@somerset-chamber.co.uk
Hinkley Supply Chain
CHIEF EXECUTIVE
Sam Evans
Head of Hinkley Supply Chain Engagement
T: 01823 443425 | M: 07525 809274
E: sam.evans@hinkleysupplychain.co.uk
OUR PATRONS Natalie Beacham
Hinkley Supply Chain Business Advisor
Contact us to find out what benefits T: 01823 443425 | M: 07519 116916
Somerset Chamber Patrons receive. E: natalie.beacham@hinkleysupplychain.co.uk
T: 01823 444924 E: membership@somerset-chamber.co.uk
Alan Windsor
Business Reporting & Information Officer
T: 01823 443425
E: alan.windsor@hinkleysupplychain.co.uk
General Enquiries
Kayleigh Gibbs
Senior Administrator
T: 01823 444924
E: kayleigh.gibbs@somerset-chamber.co.uk
5
Meet the Somerset Chamber team
Name: Natalie Beacham
Department: Hinkley Supply Chain
Job title: Hinkley Supply Chain Business Advisor
How long have you worked for the Chamber, and what did you do before?
I have worked for the Chamber for two months. Prior to this I was working for the
MoD, purchasing in service support for the Army and Navy Wildcat helicopter.
Describe your role in just two sentences.
My role is focused around gearing up local businesses for opportunities at
Hinkley Point. I spend my days going out to visit local businesses, networking,
making connections and signposting businesses to their opportunity.
What do you like most about your job?
Meeting new people and seeing the diversity of the offerings of local businesses.
I like helping connect local businesses with their opportunity at Hinkley Point C
and knowing that the Hinkley Supply Chain Team are helping to
provide a lasting legacy for the local and regional economy.
How would your colleagues describe you?
I think my colleagues would describe me as being chatty,
happy, friendly and trustworthy. I hope they would say I am a
team player who is always happy to help.
What would people be surprised to know about you?
I come from a large family with a 23 year age gap
between my oldest and youngest sibling.
Name: Kayleigh Gibbs
Job title: Senior Administrator
How long have you worked for the Chamber, and what did
you do before?
I joined the Chamber at the end of October, so not very long.
I previously worked as a GP receptionist, a support worker
for young adults and for a portacabin company. So quite a
varied career.
Describe your role in just two sentences.
My role is PA to the CEO. I also provide secretarial and
administrative support to the team.
What do you like most about your job?
I’m still very new to my role but I’m really enjoying getting to
know the team and what they all do for the Chamber.
How would your colleagues describe you?
I hope they would say I’m friendly, confident, fun and honest.
What would people be surprised to know about you?
I’m a fully qualified dog groomer. I have an American Akita
called Bear who is 48kg’s and very fluffy! I wanted to learn
how to groom her myself, so I took the course.
6
Leonardo Helicopters
Patronage renewal
PATRON NEWS
Somerset Chamber of Commerce Somerset Chamber are delighted to renew
their relationship with Leonardo Helicopters
announce Eloquent Technologies as Patrons. Commenting on the news, Alistair
as Patrons Tudor, Head of Chamber Services said,
“Somerset Chamber have a long association
with Leonardo in Yeovil and we’re delighted
Eloquent Technologies they are as committed to the ongoing
in Taunton have relationship as we are. We are looking forward
enhanced their to hosting our Brexit Panel discussion with
relationship with them on 6 February, tapping into their
Somerset Chamber by extensive knowledge of import and export for
becoming Patrons. Commenting on the new agreement, Alistair Tudor, the benefit of the wider business community.”
Head of Chamber Services, commented, “We’ve had a long association
Alison Corr from Leonardo’s Helicopters
with the team at Eloquent Technologies and we’re delighted to welcome
commented, “Leonardo Helicopters is
them as Patrons. They are one of Somersets tech success stories,
pleased to be renewing its relationship with
running their own networking, hosting and managed services and we
the Somerset Chamber of Commerce and
look forward to watching their continued growth.”
strengthening its connection to the local
Mandy Bridge, Eloquent’s Operations Director, said, “We are extremely community and to support the Chamber in its
proud to be the first IT provider to support Somerset Chamber of drive to promote business growth and
Commerce as a Patron. As a Somerset based business, which has the economic health and prosperity of
grown within the county, we understand and appreciate the value and the region.”
impact our local Chamber of Commerce has in supporting and helping
businesses to grow.”
Strode College’s Successful Partnership with China has been
Commended by the British Council International Award
With the UK increasingly looking to and secondary schools and in doing
forge new global relationships, Strode so has made a significant contribution
College’s successful partnership with to the cultural awareness of a whole
China has been commended by the generation of young people. Visits
British Council International Award. to China have taken place every year
This prestigious national accolade and Strode has also been delighted to
forms part of the Association of welcome arrivals on a regular basis,
Colleges Beacon Awards to recognise from primary age children to senior
the work undertaken by colleges leaders and headteachers.
around the world.
Somerset students have benefitted
Now entering its 8th year, Strode’s immensely from the experience of partnership by providing a valuable
link with the city of Yueyang has international travel, seeing wonders life skill and increased employability
been described by the British Council such as the Great Wall and Tiananmen to students of all backgrounds. From
in Beijing as the best example of Square, whilst also spending time with reception-age children singing Chinese
an effective and durable UK-China friends in Yueyang. From primary to songs to Strode students increasing
partnership and has had a major FE, staff have gained fresh insight into their attractiveness to top universities
impact on education in Somerset. pedagogy and students have greatly with a world language, Chinese
Strode College has led curriculum improved their understanding of global language teaching has been spread
projects and international exchanges issues. One underprivileged student across the county.
on behalf of almost 30 local primary had never left Somerset prior to going
Higher Education and International
to China; the extent to which this
Manager, Adrian Ash, who initiated
opportunity altered her perspective on
and developed the programme said,
the world and helped her to develop
“The partnership with Yueyang shows
educationally is immeasurable.
how international work delivered by
The project’s most notable a college can raise aspirations and
achievement, however, has been the improve the student experience across
widespread introduction of Mandarin the wider community. It is an honour to
lessons to Somerset state schools. have been commended by the British
Developed with the University of Council as this project truly reflects
Southampton, this initiative sought to Strode College’s vision of “Inspiring all
build on the cultural benefits of the to maximise their potential.”
7
CHAMBER NEWS
Overall a good Budget for business,
says Somerset Chamber CEO
The Chancellor’s Autumn Budget is a step in
the right direction for business, according to
the Chief Executive of Somerset Chamber of
Commerce, although he said more detail on
road improvements and digital connectivity
would have been welcomed.
Speaking following the Budget announcement on 29
October, Somerset Chamber CEO Stephen Henagulph said,
“All in all, it was a good budget for business. The substantial
increase in the Annual Investment Allowance, from £200,000
to £1million, is a really positive measure, particularly in light
of the ongoing uncertainty around Brexit. This is something
that the British Chambers of Commerce has been lobbying
government on for some time, so it was great to hear the
BCC referenced in the Chancellor’s speech.
“Business rates being cut by a third for retailers with a
rateable value of £51,000 or less will be welcome news
on the High Street, where the changing face of retail has
brought many challenges. Meanwhile the reduction in the
apprenticeship levy contribution for smaller companies, from
10% to 5%, will help small firms tackle the skills shortages
they have within their businesses, as well as helping to
address the issue for the region as a whole.
“It was disappointing
that we did not
hear more from the
Chancellor relating to
the South West region
specifically. Whilst I
would imagine we will
benefit from some of
the extra £420million
that has been
allocated to repair
potholes, we still don’t
seem to be making
any real progress with
key regional transport infrastructure projects such as the
dualling of the A303 and A358.
“In addition, there are far too many firms across Somerset
and the wider South West that still don’t have good quality
broadband, which is fundamental to running a business.
Measures to improve digital connectivity were absent from
the Chancellor’s speech, although there may be more detail
on this in the Budget red book, which we’ll be looking into
over the coming days. Either way, Somerset Chamber will
continue lobbying for better digital connectivity across the
county, in particular for those Somerset businesses in the
‘final five per cent’.”
SOMERSET VOICE | THE MAGAZINE OF SOMERSET CHAMBER OF COMMERCE | DECEMBER 2018/JANUARY 2019
8 CHAMBER NEWS
Lord Triesman addresses local businesses
at Somerset Chamber AGM
Lord David Triesman was the guest
speaker at this year’s Somerset Chamber
of Commerce AGM, sharing insight and
anecdotes from his varied career in
business, politics and sport with around 60
of Somerset’s business people.
Held at the Cooper Associates County Ground in Taunton on
Wednesday 21 November, the AGM is a popular event with
Chamber members, providing an opportunity to celebrate
the year’s successes and network with other business people
from across the county.
Lord Triesman gave an animated and entertaining speech,
Pictured, L-R: Tom Marks (Vodafone South West), Greg Saunders
sharing some of the knowledge he has gained through
(Somerset Chamber of Commerce), Lord David Triesman (Salamanca
his commercial experience in finance and real estate, his
Group), Stephen Henagulph (Somerset Chamber of Commerce)
ministerial roles in government and his time as Chairman of
Photo courtesy of Katherine Anne Photography.
the Football Association. From working with world leaders to
England football managers, he said his approach has always
been to develop positive working relationships, to prepare He spoke about his first 57 days in the role and his plans to
carefully and explore all the alternatives, and to focus on the run the Chamber as an efficient, effective business so it can
positives which are the things that really drive you forward. continue to grow, develop and provide support for members
and patrons across the county.
He also spoke to delegates about the commercial
development of Huntspill Energy Park on the site of Reports from the Chairman and Finance Director were
the former Royal Ordnance Factory in Bridgwater. Lord followed by presentations to member companies that had
Triesman is Executive Director of Salamanca Group, which achieved ten years of continual Chamber membership.
has acquired the 635 acre site and is developing it as an
A vote was held to appoint two new directors to the
enterprise zone. The new development will bring exciting
Chamber board, with Graeme Crosbie from Level Up (South
business and inward investment opportunities for the county,
West) and Suzanne Roper from Somerset County Cricket
and he highlighted that some important announcements
Club elected for a period of three years.
about the vision are due to be made over the coming weeks.
Summing up the event, Greg Saunders, Chairman of Somerset
Stephen Henagulph, the new CEO of Somerset Chamber,
Chamber, said, “What a fantastic evening. Lord Triesman gave a
updated members on the Chamber’s activities and key
fascinating talk covering his impressive and varied CV through
successes from the past 12 months. Highlights included
to the exciting opportunities that will be created by Salamanca
welcoming almost 3,000 members to Somerset Chamber
Group and the development site at Hunstpilll.
events; reaching 4,000 registrations on the Hinkley Supply
Chain portal; working closely with Somerset County Council “It was a pleasure to congratulate those organisations that
to launch the Somerset Education Business Partnership; and have been members for 10 years and to introduce our new
receiving confirmation just last week that the Chamber has CEO, Stephen Henagulph, to the wider Chamber audience.
been re-accredited to the British Chambers of Commerce As always, applications to join the Board became a close
following a rigorous assessment process. fought battle for votes and I am delighted to welcome Graeme
Crosbie and Suzanne Roper to the Board. I look forward to
working closely with them as we continue the excellent work
undertaken by Somerset Chamber of Commerce.”
Tom Marks from Vodafone South West, which sponsored
the event, commented, “The Somerset Chamber of
Commerce AGM was a great event attended by a warm
and friendly group of local business owners and leaders.
The evening was expertly hosted by Chamber Chairman
Greg Saunders and we were treated to a very engaging talk
by Lord Triesman who shared stories and learnings from
his impressive career. Vodafone South West was proud to
support the AGM and we’re looking forward to next year’s
event already.”
SOMERSET VOICE | THE MAGAZINE OF SOMERSET CHAMBER OF COMMERCE | DECEMBER 2018/JANUARY 2019
CHAMBER NEWS
9
Bank of England Agent offers insight into future of economy
Donna Kehoe, Bank of England Agent for the South West, comments on the
South West economy and compares to the national reports from the Bank.
In this article I’d like to flag a couple of recent The future of money
announcements by the Bank. Both relate to money in one
And… we’re asking
way or another. One was about the official interest rate set
the public to talk to
by the Bank; and one was about the future of money itself.
us about the future of
The outlook for interest rates money, in all its various
shapes and sizes.
On interest rates, in November the Bank’s Monetary Policy
Committee (MPC) provided its latest assessment of the The Bank has launched
economy and the path of interest rates needed to bring its annual Future Forum
inflation back to the 2% target over the coming few years. to hear what people
think about topics
The MPC think the economy is now close to full capacity – I
ranging from the rise
hear from businesses in Somerset, for example, that they are
of cashless payments,
struggling to recruit staff or that they have no more space
to crypto assets and
with which to grow.
financial technology.
That means that if the economy performs as the MPC
As part of the event, the
expects, interest rates may have to rise gradually from 0.75%
Bank’s Governors will
towards around 1.5% over the next two or three years.
be hosting live online
Of course, there is still a great deal of uncertainty about the Q&A sessions – so this
outlook for the economy because of Brexit. As a result, the is your chance to talk directly to Mark Carney and his senior
path of interest rates set by the Bank will depend on the colleagues. There are also great opportunities for youngsters
nature of future trading arrangements and whether there is a to get involved. For more information visit
smooth transition to them. www.bankofenglandfutureforum.co.uk.
Importantly, whatever happens, the Bank will set interest Meanwhile, my colleagues and I in the Agency network
rates in a sustainable way to ensure that inflation returns to continue to meet with our contacts in companies and
target, while supporting jobs and activity during this most charities to deepen our understanding of what’s happening
important time of change for the people of the South West. in the economy in every part of the United Kingdom.
Autumn Budget 2018: Opinions from the British Chambers
HEADLINES: BCC VIEW OF OBR ECONOMIC FORECAST
• OBR UK growth forecast downgraded for 2018, but “Despite the upgrades, the OBR’s latest outlook paints a
upgraded for 2019 and 2020 rather subdued picture of the UK’s economic prospects
over the near-term with growth expected to remain well
• Inflation expected to move back to the 2% target by 2019
below its long-run average throughout the forecast period.
• Public sector borrowing £25.5 billion in 2017-18, £11.6bn Significantly, the OBR’s latest forecast implies that by 2020
lower than forecast the UK economy will have experienced its second weakest
decade of average annual GDP growth on record. The OBR’s
latest economic forecast also implies that UK growth will
remain unbalanced with a continued reliance on the services
sector and consumer spending to drive growth. In contrast,
net trade’s contribution to overall economic growth is
forecast to remain limited. Measures such as the increase in
the Annual Investment Allowance however will help to lift
business investment over the near term.
“As expected, the OBR has confirmed that the UK’s fiscal
outlook is healthier than they expected in their previous
forecast. However, if UK economic growth remains subdued,
the UK’s ability to generate tax receipts may prove more
of an uphill struggle than the OBR currently expects. More
needs to be done to strengthen and widen the UK’s tax
base, including for firms looking to invest, recruit and grow
their business.”
Suren Thiru – BCC Head of Economics
10 CHAMBER NEWS
What does a Careers Hub mean for local business?
Business and education are
joining forces to improve career
opportunities for young people
with the launch of the new Heart
of the South West Careers Hub.
Somerset Chamber members report skills remain a high priority, People themed lead for HotSW LEP, Fiona McMillan, says,
affecting their potential for growth. Further, a highly skilled “I’m delighted to be able to launch the Heart of the South
workforce helps raise productivity too. The Somerset Education West Careers Hub. Bringing business and schools closer
Business Partnership (EBP) is working collaboratively with the together and providing students with effective career advice
Careers Hub, which will help equip and support employers and and guidance are key pathways to helping our young people
educators to prepare young people for working life – leading to achieve their potential, and it’s great that we are able to
our future economy benefitting and the prospect for potentially support the EBP’s ongoing work through the new Hub pilot.”
hundreds of local young people improved.
Enterprise Advisors are part of an Enterprise Advisor Network
EBP Manager, Andrew Hanson, comments, “We need the right of trained volunteers from the local business community.
skills for businesses now and in the future. The new Careers Hub They work with headteachers and school leaders, sharing
will ensure young people have more opportunities to connect their knowledge and experiences and helping to deliver
with potential future employers. Evidence shows if a student has 4 better careers support and work experience opportunities.
or more employer interactions whilst in education, they are more Cornerstone Employers and act as ambassadors for social
likely to secure employment and earn more during their career.” mobility, and invest time and resource to benefit schools and
young people. Importantly, a Cornerstone Employer can be any
The Hub, part-funded by The Careers & Enterprise Company,
size – large, small or even micro.
aims to help transform careers education for young people
and better prepare them for working life by bringing business Your local hub is looking for more business professionals to
and schools closer together. The Hub will offer targeted volunteer as Enterprise Advisors and are interested in finding
support including: funding to use on strengthening education- more Somerset Cornerstone Employers. If you are interested
business links, training Enterprise Advisors and Cornerstone in getting involved, contact support@somerset-ebp.co.uk.
Employers to support schools.11
FOCUS ON: CONSTRUCTION
Building a workforce fit for the future
With the construction sector in the interested in becoming a bricklayer to “The government has set a target of
midst of a skills shortage, CG Fry shadow the team on-site, with further recruiting three million apprentices by
& Son is proud to being playing its opportunities becoming available as 2020 and we fully back these plans
part in tackling the issue and has construction progresses. to reform the industry and promote
welcomed seven new apprentices to apprenticeships as an effective way
Philip Fry, Managing Director
the company this year. for young people and adults to enter
of CG Fry & Son, commented,
the workforce equipped with the
Carpentry, bricklaying, joinery, site “We are very proud to be able to
necessary skills and relevant work
management and architecture are offer apprenticeships at CG Fry & Son,
experience.
the trades that have seen an intake which we hope will go some way to
of apprentices, adding to the two addressing the skills shortages in the “We are also engaging with schools
carpentry apprentices who joined the construction trade. It is important that and colleges, as well as our local
business last year. we work closely with leading industry Construction Industry Training Board
training providers to invest in the next (CITB) and Young Enterprise teams
Two students at Bridgwater and
generation.” to educate pupils – and their parents
Taunton College are gaining invaluable
and teachers - about the huge variety
hands-on experience via their
of jobs available in the construction
apprenticeships with CG Fry & Son as
industry and providing employability
they train for roles as a Trainee Site
and business days. We need to
Manager and Architectural Technician.
challenge misperceptions about the
The builder is also using active sites,
industry and promote it as exciting
such as The Castle School in Taunton
and appealing, after all, we need a
where it is constructing a new Design
wide range of skills to design and build
Technology block, to provide work
the new places and communities of
experience for students keen to enter
the future.”
the construction sector. So far, the
scheme has enabled one student
Is digital technology the key to Off-Site Build?
Everywhere you look, from the BBC’s DIY SOS programmes, over 5 years ago
Hinkley Point C, HS2, most of the infrastructure projects we when we developed
pass in our day to day lives are full of wonderful examples of a company ethos of
Off-Site Build systems. In high-level terms, Off-Site Build offers “Better not Bigger”.
significant benefits throughout the build phase of any project. This created a series of improvement programmes including
the decision to invest in digital technologies and develop
Health and Safety: Improved with more activity undertaken
our own in-house design capabilities. At that stage we did
in a controlled factory environment.
not fully appreciate the scale of the undertaking. We faced
Time: Reduced through the adoption of lean manufacture and challenges around process, software, infrastructure, digital
assembly processes. Items are delivered pre-assembled to meet architecture, continuity and security. To overcome these, we
construction programme significantly reducing time on site. developed and, importantly, committed to a clearly defined
digital strategy to address these and other issues which
Design for Manufacture and Assembly (DfMA): These
emerged. Investing time at the outset was key. The strategy
principles almost guarantee efficiency and quality.
has proved pivotal in shaping our operations and service
Costs: Greater certainty and opportunities for savings over offerings to meet ever-increasing market demands including
traditional techniques Off-Site Build. It is now possible to design and fully verify a
model of the finished solution in a virtual environment before
Waste and Carbon: Lean processes reduce carbon
any physical works start.
associated with transportation and assembly activities with
reduced materials wastage through standardised designs. Whilst we have grown significantly in the last 5 years, we
remain a friendly, forward looking, family-owned business,
Such is the take-up of this technology, it almost appears as
which is firmly rooted in Somerset offering a complete
though it has happened overnight! For the early adopters,
design and build service to our customers, delivered by our
the reality is quite different.
talented directly employed people.
At Bridges Electrical Engineers Ltd, our success in the Off-
- Chris Maddox, Framework Director
Site Build arena has been recently recognised and celebrated
within the Water and Energy sectors. The hard work started
SOMERSET VOICE | THE MAGAZINE OF SOMERSET CHAMBER OF COMMERCE | DECEMBER 2018/JANUARY 201912 MEMBERS AREA
MEMBERS AREA: UPCOMING EVENTS
Tuesday Tuesday
Christmas Coffee
Morning
18
December
Advanced Social
Media Workshop
22
January
Somerset Chamber Members: This workshop delivered by Social
Join us for a coffee and some festive treats at Communications is designed to
our office. This is a great opportunity to meet the provide knowledge and insight into how best to create
Chamber team and network in a relaxed environment. a paid advertising strategy. It is an intermediate-
We will also be supporting Chamber charity member advanced level workshop aimed at people with an
ARC and would be grateful for any donations. existing working knowledge of Facebook, Twitter and
LinkedIn, on which to develop their skills further.
Time: 10.00 - 13.00
This workshop will cover how Facebook, Twitter and
Venue: Somerset Chamber office, Taunton
LinkedIn algorithms work, and how you can use this
Cost: Free of Charge
data to drive and inform your social media strategy, the
importance of community building, how to use channel
analytics to measure activity and build an effective
In aid of
performance report.
Time: 09.00
Venue: Somerset Chamber office, Taunton
Cost: £45.00 Members only (Buffet Lunch Included)
Friday
Breakfast with
Somerset County
18
January
In association with
Council
Once again we invite you to attend our Annual Wednesday
30
Breakfast update with Somerset County Council
where Deputy Leader Cllr. David Hall will update us on
the Council’s current initiatives. In addition, there will
Business to Business
be plenty of networking opportunities. Past events Dinner, Yeovil January
have seen over 60 attendees.
Join us for our first Business to
Time: 08.00 - 10.00 Business Dinner of the year. Our B2B’s are one of
Venue: Holiday Inn, Taunton the most popular in the Chamber events calendar,
Cost: £18.00 with full English breakfast with guests given multiple opportunities to network
with different people throughout each of the three
In association with Funded by Sponsored by
courses. If you are looking to meet like-minded
professionals and raise the profile of your business,
then this is the event for you. With our 2018 B2B
Dinner’s seeing an average of 70 attendees each, this
is an opportunity not to miss.
Time: 18.30
Venue: RNAS Yeovilton
Cost: £27.00 (3 Course Meal Included)
Sponsored by
SOMERSET VOICE | THE MAGAZINE OF SOMERSET CHAMBER OF COMMERCE | DECEMBER 2018/JANUARY 2019MEMBERS AREA
13
*Prices are plus VAT unless otherwise stated
Please note due to high demand, some of these events may
be fully booked by the time of printing.
Wednesday
Brexit Panel
Somerset Chamber of Commerce
6
February
Sponsor an event…
Have you considered sponsoring one of our Chamber
are bringing together businesses Events? Sponsorship starts from as little as £375.00
from across the region to discuss and provides you with plenty of benefits, including:
the implications of the UK’s exit from the EU. We
• Profile raising to an audience of 6,000+ local
will be joined by representatives from Leonardo
business contacts via Somerset Pulse
Helicopters, Kuehne & Nagel and the British
Chambers of Commerce to discuss their Brexit • Three months of promotion via social media, email
preparations, tariffs and customs implications and communications and printed literature
give an overall business perspective on the single
• Dedicated sponsor bio against the event on
most critical negotiations of a generation. Following
Chamber website (including logo and web link)
the presentations, there will be a Q&A session giving
you the opportunity to clarify any key issues for your • Opportunity to talk at the event
business.
• Two free delegate places at the event
Time: 09.00 • Co-branding at the event
Venue: Leonardo’s Helicopters, Yeovil
Somerset Chamber host over 70 events a year,
Cost: £20.00 Members / £26.50 Non-Members
so there really is something for every business, no
(Light Breakfast Included)
matter the size or sector. Why not get involved now?
In association with Contact us to find out more.
Email: events@somerset-chamber.co.uk
Phone: 01823 444924
Wednesday
Meet the
Neighbours Devon
27
February
We are delighted to be teaming
up with Devon and Exeter Chambers of Commerce
for our Annual Meet the Neighbours Lunch. Join us
for a two-course lunch and excellent networking
opportunities. These events are very well attended
with approximately 120 attendees so book early to
avoid disappointment.
Time: 12.00
Venue: To be confirmed
Cost: £22.50
In association with14 MEMBERS AREA
A look back at 2018 and forward to 2019
Moving towards Christmas, new Somerset Chamber Chief
Executive, Stephen Henagulph, offers his opinions on the
influences affecting the retail sector, and summarises the
recent key events for the Chamber.
As we sweltered in the 80-degree heat of a fabulous summer, I passed a venue
that was advertising bookings for Christmas. This was on the Saturday of the
August Bank Holiday weekend. Now, I’m as much in favour of advanced planning,
scheduling and preparing for events as the next person, but Christmas in August?
Really? You then start thinking about planning and seasonal events; high street
trends, fashions and collections that are paraded on catwalks at least 12 months
before they hit the shops. Retailers have their Christmas catalogues, products and
offerings planned well in advance with photo shoots and layouts completed a full
season ahead of the next, so Christmas in August actually looks positively late.
Retailers this summer did exceptionally well in the outdoor furniture and barbeque
market. Why were sales so healthy? Two things that no one could have predicted.
First, the England Football team progressing further in the World Cup than anyone
expected, and second, a long, hot, rain free Summer. It’s almost ironic that the two
things we have no control over had the biggest impact on retail sales this year.
Retailing is changing with new transactional methods and omni channel offerings,
small format shops offering the ‘brand’ experience with the customer, then
purchasing online having tried and tested the product in store. The order they place
via their phone or tablet then arrives at the customers selected location either same
day or next day. The experience is the ‘brand’, and the ‘product’ the souvenir; a big
change from warehouse size department stores holding hundreds of thousands of
pounds of stock to sell single items.
As 2018 ends and we draw closer to Christmas and New Year, there is, as always,
the time to reflect on the year which has been an exceptionally busy for us. As a
Chamber there was the requirement to provide the necessary documentation and
processes, staff interviews and audit to achieve our accreditation to the British
Chamber of Commerce, which I am delighted to announce we successfully achieved.
We continue to further develop and grow our working relationship with members,
partners, stakeholders, the Somerset Education Business Partnership and our
Hinkley Supply Chain colleagues. Our Board of Directors went through the
challenging yet rewarding task of selecting a new Chief Executive and finally we
moved offices, although remaining within the existing location. Any business move
brings disruption and distraction from the day job, but the Chamber team rallied,
and it was both smooth and painless.
So, roll on 2019 and its inevitable challenges. First up, let’s look at Easter – that’s in
January right?
SOMERSET VOICE | THE MAGAZINE OF SOMERSET CHAMBER OF COMMERCE | DECEMBER 2018/JANUARY 2019MEMBERS AREA
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Alistair Tudor, Head of Chamber Services,
reflects on another busy and evolutionary year
for the Somerset Chamber, and describes the
developments and plans in place for 2019. Two new directors appointed to
One of the best things about being part of Somerset Chamber Board
Somerset Chamber of Commerce is that
nothing ever stays the same! We are in a
Two new directors have been appointed to the Board of Somerset
unique position to put on new events; offering
Chamber of Commerce, bringing additional commercial and business
better opportunities to engage and connect
growth expertise to the organisation.
businesses across the region, influence local,
regional and national policy and help our Graeme Crosbie from Level Up (South West) and Suzanne Roper from
members to grow their businesses. We are Somerset County Cricket Club were voted in by members for an initial
lucky to have a creative team who develop three year term at the Somerset Chamber AGM on 21 November.
new concepts and services which will benefit
Graeme Crosbie is the owner and Managing Director of Level Up
you, our members.
(SW) Ltd in Hambridge, near Langport. Since founding the business
So what have we changed in 2018? More in December 2006, Graeme has successfully supported business
workshops to educate and help our members growth and leadership & management development in SMEs and
grow, covering diverse topics such as LinkedIn, professional organisations across Somerset and the South West. He was
GDPR, Power BI, Digital Marketing and Debt an accredited Growth Coach with the Business Growth Service and its
Recovery, not to mention the Emerging predecessors between 2010 and 2016, and he has delivered numerous
Leaders Academy series hosted by Level- presentations, seminars and workshops for Somerset Chamber and
Up South West. We also started the Simply various town Chambers over the past 12 years.
Networking series – simple and effective
Commenting on his election, Graeme said,
networking events with no pressure and a
“I’m delighted to have been appointed to the
simple format aimed at getting the most from
Somerset Chamber Board, and very much look
your evening. We arranged and hosted nearly
forward to getting involved and supporting
100 appointments with the Heathrow Supply
the Chamber team. I work extensively across
Chain event, ran the Behind the Scenes event
the county with owners of independent SMEs
at Screwfix, partnered with Albert Goodman
who are, to a great extent, the lifeblood of the
for the Pensions Breakfast and hosted a Ladies
Somerset economy and our wider community.
Networking Event at Somerset County Cricket
I do feel that their voices, concerns and
Club. On top of this, the Somerset Business
challenges need to be heard, in particular
Awards were a great success with a 36%
in the whole area around productivity and skills, as well as remaining
increase in entries providing an even tougher
competitive. I hope that my contribution to the Board of the Somerset
challenge for our judges.
Chamber will help achieve this.”
Our membership packages all now benefit
Suzanne Roper is Commercial Sales Director at Somerset County Cricket
from the Quest service giving access to an HR,
Club in Taunton. With a wealth of marketing and sales experience
Legal, Health and Safety and Tax helpline and
across the sports and leisure industries, she has a particular focus on
document library - a great additional service to
commercial relationship management and partnerships. Prior to joining
our core membership - to help them take the
the commercial team at Somerset County Cricket Club in July 2018,
stress out of the basics of running a business.
Suzanne spent 12 years as Head of Commercial at Bristol Rugby, and three
If you need more support than the advice
and a half years doing the same for Bristol Sport, which encompasses
line or document templates can give, we will
Bristol Rugby, Bristol City FC, Bristol Flyers Basketball and all Ashton Gate
always refer you to the relevant part of our
stadium assets. She also set up her own consultancy and worked as an
membership directory.
independent consultant, giving her insight into business ownership as well
What are our plans for 2019? With the arrival as larger commercial organisations.
of Stephen Henagulph as Chief Executive,
Following her appointment, Suzanne
we’re looking forward to further amplifying our
commented, “I am delighted to be appointed
members views, taking from local, to regional,
to the Board of Directors at Somerset Chamber
to national. All the way from our network of
of Commerce. It is an honour personally and
Town Chambers across Somerset, to the British
it is also valuable for the Chamber to have a
Chambers of Commerce who have the ear of
representative from a key Somerset business
Westminster, we’ll use our voice to make sure
such as Somerset County Cricket Club. As the
the opinions of our members are heard at the
Commercial Sales Director of the Cricket Club I
very highest level. We’re looking at developing
believe I can contribute a different opinion and
our membership packages, offering more to
outlook on key issues of the Chamber, bringing
those who need it as well as
a commercial stance on what is fundamentally a business trying to
laying on another year with
achieve its objectives whilst working closely with the business community
80 events to help businesses
of the region. I look forward to the opportunity and meeting more of the
of all sizes, industries and
Chamber of Commerce community going forward.”
locations across Somerset.
Greg Saunders, Chairman of Somerset Chamber of Commerce, added,
We all look forward to working
“The quality of the applicants to join the Board this year was, without
with our members, over
exception, superb. For Graeme and Suzanne to come out on top in the vote
the course of the next
is testament to the respect they have already garnered in the Somerset
year and we wish you
business community. I have no doubt that they will add great value to a
a successful, healthy
diverse and experienced Board as we continue to support Stephen and the
and happy 2019.
team in their strategy to continue to grow and evolve the Chamber in the
years to come. I look forward eagerly to working with them.”16 MEMBERS AREA
Grosvenor DCR
New Members
Business Consultancy
Our experienced team can assist with improving sales,
managing creditors and helping businesses cut costs;
whilst our relationships with flexible lenders and the
Welcome to our newest members of introduction of our own funds means we can provide
quick decisions when it matters most.
the Somerset Chamber.
Rachel Simpson, 0333 222 000 2
rachel@grosvenordcr.co.uk
www.grosvenordcr.co.uk
Choice Stationery Supplies Ltd
Office Services
Choice Stationery Supplies is a family owned
stationers based in the heart of Somerset. We Habitat Aid Ltd
guarantee to offer the best prices on all your office Environment
supplies or you can have a month for free. Call Taunton We promote and sell British trees, hedging, aquatic
01823 331111 for details. plants, wildflower seed and heritage fruit trees, which
we source from a community of small UK nurseries and
Paul Andrews, 01823 705210
growers. We also offer groundwork, planting, seeding
paul.andrews@choicestationery.com
and ecological services through our partner network.
www.choicestationery.com
Nick Mann, 01749 812355
nick.mann@habitataid.co.uk
www.HabitatAid.co.uk
Compass Video
Marketing / PR
We are digital content creators. We believe the best
way to reach out and connect with your audience is to H Sweet Construction
tell your business story. We do this through creating Construction
story driven, targeted, content plans that align with Based in Nailsea, H Sweet and Sons are a family-owned
your core values. and operated commercial construction company.
We deliver contracts for a range of sectors including
Keith Seward, 07920 100948
technology, healthcare and education. Committed to
keith@compass-video.com
raising the bar in construction, we build complex structures
www.compass-video.com
on time, budget and to the highest quality standards.
Lewis Sweet, 0845 094 2699
lewis@hsweetandsons.com
Consult MB Ltd www.hsweetandsons.com
ICT
We provide a range of IT and cyber security services,
including cyber security consultancy, security health Intelligent Enterprise Products
checks, vulnerability assessments, infrastructure ICT
design and support, and certification for the Intelligent Enterprise Products is an innovative
Government’s Cyber Essentials Scheme. Small, local, software development and systems integration
and friendly, with very competitive rates. company based in Yeovil. We specialise in Microsoft
Cloud technologies and we build software solutions
Mike Brett, 01934 235585
for businesses that wish to take advantage of this
mike.brett@consultmb.co.uk
massively powerful infrastructure.
www.consultmb.co.uk
Edward Nicholson, 01935 385939
ed.nicholson@intelligent-enterprise-products.com
David Hutchins Innovation Ltd www.intelligent-enterprise-products.com
Business Consultancy
David Hutchins Innovation also known as the David
Hutchins International Quality College conducts I We You
Workplace Learning Diploma in Quality Leadership and Skills and Training
also face to face learning on site, breakfast meetings, Educational communication experts helping schools
evening meetings and Quality Related Consultancy recruit and retain pupils. IWeYou trains staff in all
concerned with Business Performance Improvement. forms of communication within the school, developing
a corporate approach. Delivered by educationalists
David Hutchins, 01458224040
with support from commercial experts we understand
david@hutchins.co.uk
the problems and offer solutions.
www.dhiqc.com
Ben Coombes, 07891 872282
ben@iweyou.org
www.iweyou.org
SOMERSET VOICE | THE MAGAZINE OF SOMERSET CHAMBER OF COMMERCE | DECEMBER 2018/JANUARY 2019MEMBERS AREA
17
Jason Holt Photography
Photography
I provide professional photography for business,
professionals and performers across the South West.
Shot in a minimalist style, my headshots focus on
expression, ensuring a look of friendly confidence.
Additionally, I shoot portraits and commercial work
including products and interiors.
Jason Holt, 07450 571277
jason@jasonholtphoto.com
www.jasonholtphoto.com The Insolvency Company
Finance
We are a family run Insolvency Practice based in
KHB Marketing Taunton. Our experienced team support individuals
Marketing / PR and businesses to resolve their financial difficulties.
Working with small to medium size business across We pride ourselves on our caring approach and offer a
differing business platforms that rely heavily on a free initial consultation to explore your options.
sales force internal or external to increase revenue.
Gareth Buckley, 01823 216156
Coaching singularly or in groups sales techniques
gareth.buckley@theinsolvencycompany.co.uk
with a humanistic approach to form better client
www.gbinsolvency.co.uk
relationships.
Kevin Harris-Brandi, 07989 141503
kevin@khbmarketing.co.uk
www.khbmarketing.co.uk The Passionate PA - Somerset
Office Services
The Passionate PA works in partnership with
NEAT entrepreneurs and business owners to create
Design Print momentum and results. We provide freelance PA
Neat is a design and communication studio, acclaimed services on a one-to-one basis, as well as to teams,
for its intelligent, creative and beautifully crafted helping to manage To Do Lists, implement structure
design work. Over two decades our portfolio and improve efficiencies.
has encompassed graphic design, brand identity,
Sarah Hannah , 07921917403
packaging, exhibition and display, web and digital
sarah@thepassionatepa.co.uk
platforms, advertising and marketing.
www.thepassionatepa.co.uk
Carl Middleton, 01823 401 302
carlmiddleton@neatdesign.org
www.neatdesign.org Unity AV
Audio Visual
Unity design and install audio visual systems that are
Praestantia Technology Ltd reliable, and easy to use, as well as all shapes, colours,
Audio Visual and sizes of writing boards in glass or steel to suit any
Praestantia Technology has been established to deliver meeting or presentation environment.
truly impressive fully managed IT & Audio-Visual
Ashley Tisshaw, 01488 683178
services for schools and businesses with honesty,
ashley.tisshaw@unityav.com
integrity and simplicity. We’ve brought together
www.unityav.com
exceptional people to be able to deliver quality
solutions to meet the needs of all our customers.
Seb Clift, 0330 1244731
seb@praestantiatech.co.uk
www.praestantiatech.co.uk Westfield Health
Insurance
Workplace health and wellbeing is moving up the
Rainshader Ltd corporate agenda. Businesses now recognise there
Retail and Online are tangible benefits in looking after your most
Rainshader Ltd delivers a revolutionary umbrella. important asset – your staff. Our health and wellbeing
Designed and tested at Warwickshire University services will help you lower absence rates, increase
providing customers a strong, lightweight umbrella for productivity and improve employee engagement.
all occasions and weathers without blowing inside out
Lucy Harrington, 07718972118
and poking passers by in the eye.
Lucy.Harrington@WestfieldHealth.com
Doreen Sydenham, 07886204700 www.westfieldhealth.com
doreen@rainshader.com
www.rainshader.com18
FEATURES For this editions feature, we asked our Patron
colleges to share their advice and thoughts on the
upcoming changes to the Apprenticeship Levy,
including the changes in funding, the Levy pot and
what this means for apprentices and employers.
Weston College
Weston College is a major provider of skills in the South West euphoria of telling everyone
and has received national acclaim for its work with both you’ve got into degree study
business and industry. This success most recently resulted wears off, the impactful reality of
in the College being awarded the Queen’s Anniversary Prize what that means from academic demands starts to hit home.
for Further and Higher Education. The College is also Ofsted
Dr. Paul is pinning his hopes on the post eighteen review
‘Outstanding’ as well as holding Investors in People gold
led by Philip Augar on behalf of the government. “Philip
and Champion status. All rosy in the garden you may think
visited us as part of the reviews,” he comments. He describes
however, Principal Dr. Paul Phillips CBE has major worries
the meeting as both insightful and thought provoking. The
about student motivation of destination choice.
process of unconditional offers may be outlawed by such a
“We pride ourselves on putting learners first,” he says echoed review but what if it isn’t?
by the College strap line, “Creating Brighter Futures” but
From the perspective of Weston’s Principal, there will
“we have a perfect storm almost upon us.” Dr. Paul goes
be change irrespective, Dr. Paul stresses the need for
on to explain that as an institution that offers courses at
those thinking of progressing to Higher Education to ask
levels up to honours and master’s degree level that they are
themselves some key questions and to research their next
seeing some of their learners choosing to go to University or
destination stage. “Higher Education Providers are now
other colleges that are offering unconditional offers to join
graded as Gold, Silver and Bronze he says, FE colleges are
them for degree study. He recognises that as fewer young
graded from a financial and quality perspective and some
people and adults choose to progress to University that
institutions invest heavily in student support and these are
some institutions will play the ‘bums on seats’ game and take
the issues prospective students should look at.”
learners without any reference to their academic progress or
potential. Obviously this issue can have devastating effects on College
income and it’s ability to survive in a climate where funding
The problem however, is a major one and whilst Weston
is sadly lacking for the sector. Dr. Paul is optimistic that
College adopts an honourable stance and still issues
the ‘good’ institutions will continue to provide strong and
conditional offers to its learners, a perfect storm is
sensible advice coupled with good pastoral care for their
developing. “Too often this strategy leads to a high dropout
learners. What of those who don’t you ask yourselves- their
rate and all sorts of other problems,” he says. The issues
comeuppance is on the horizon!
appear not to be just around academia but mental health
where learners suffer extreme health issues once they find Contact Weston College on 01934 411 411
themselves on courses that they cannot cope with. As the www.weston.ac.ukFEATURES
19
Strode College
There has been a lot of noise in the press about the
apprenticeship levy and what it means to your business.
Strode Employer Engagement Team through experience
of working with local and national employers have a great
understanding of the advantages and benefits of supporting
this programme.
Funding has changed radically. Previously different
businesses of all sizes contributed up to 100% of the training
costs for their apprentice. Now, the Government has moved
to a levy based approach. This means that funding is secured
by charging a 0.5% tax on businesses whose payroll is
£3,000,000 per annum or more. Those larger employers who
pay the levy can utilise the additional tax paid and convert
the funds to vouchers to offset the cost of training the
apprentices they employ.
For Small to Medium enterprises (SMES) who are usually
non-levy payers, they only have to contribute a maximum of
10% of the training costs of their apprentices to the training
provider. This is huge cost saving to them.
This has meant that since 2016, Strode College has been
pro-actively working with levy partners such as Somerset
County Council, Engineering specialist Trelleborg and IT giant
Century Link to deliver their apprenticeship programme.
The changes have also enhanced Strode College’s ability to If you wish to take on an apprentice or discuss any other
support those small businesses who could not previously training requirements please contact me directly and I will
afford to train an apprentice. be delighted to conduct a free of charge training needs
analysis on your business.
Ian Carter, Commercial Account Manager, says, “Our uptake in
interest from small to medium sized businesses looking to hire For further information contact Ian on
an apprentice has doubled since the changes were introduced. icarter@strode-college.ac.uk or on 01458 844502.
Bridgwater and Taunton College
The Apprenticeship Reforms have opened up a wealth of Large employers with an
opportunities for employers, who now receive Levy funding ‘unspent’ Levy pot risk losing
direct and are able to source the workforce training they it from May 2019, so it makes
need from a registered training provider of their choice. sense to consider transferring
Many people will automatically think of apprentices in terms some of the value to smaller
of young people learning a trade but in fact the scope is far, businesses in your supply chain,
far wider. enabling them to upskill their
employees and become more
It is possible to train an existing employee via an
agile, efficient and profitable.
Apprenticeship programme, and most businesses could
benefit from some form of leadership and management Bridgwater & Taunton College is an outstanding
training. There’s no need to wait until September as Apprenticeship provider, with clients that include EDF
Bridgwater & Taunton College’s leadership and management Energy, the Ministry of Defence, British Gymnastics, Laing
apprenticeships are delivered all year round on a ‘roll on, roll O’Rourke, Mulberry, Sedgemoor District Council, Wessex
off’ basis, and we can get your employees started right away. Water, UK Power Networks and Thales, as well as a large
number of SMEs.
Team leaders and supervisors new to their roles can study
a Level 3 Leadership qualification whilst the University We’d be delighted to help Somerset businesses identify their
Centre Somerset offers degree-level qualifications for middle skills gaps and use the Apprenticeship Levy system to full
managers and strategic leaders. advantage.
The really good news is that if you’re a Levy payer, this For further information please contact Bridgwater &
training comes at no additional cost, and if you’re a non-Levy Taunton College’s Business Development Team on
payer then your contribution to the training costs is limited 01278 655111 or email business@btc.ac.uk.
to just 10%, with the Government funding the rest.
SOMERSET VOICE | THE MAGAZINE OF SOMERSET CHAMBER OF COMMERCE | DECEMBER 2018/JANUARY 2019You can also read
