4FRONT Magazine - Summer 2013 Edition

The business magazine of South Cheshire Chamber

Prime Ministerwelcomes jobs

boost at Bentley

“HS2 will go ahead” says Project ChiefPage 31

Page 6

Crewe - Hot stuff in energy racePage 22

Summer Edition 2013

SPECIAL EDITION!!includes Directory of

Chamber Members pull-out

Summer 4Front 2013_Layout 1 05/08/2013 16:27 Page 1

‘Lettings - With a Difference’

With over a decade of letting experience in Cheshire, come to your local family-owned and run independent letting specialist for a comprehensive service from experienced and caring professionals.

Landlords - Join the Winning Team

The Temples teams with Phil Spencer at the Hilton Hyde Park Awards Ceremony - 19th April 2013

We are very proud to announce our continued success in the ESTAS Letting Agent Awards winning GOLD & SILVER as 2013 Best Letting Agents in the North West and by retaining our GOLD for 2013

Best Small Lettings Group in the UK. This reaffirms our total commitment and dedication to providing professionalism and service excellence to our clients . . . We are Simply the Best!

!

% % % % % % ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! !! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ' ' '

!

% % ! ! ! ! ! ! ! !! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ' ' '

!

% % ! ! ! ! ! ! ! !! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ' ' '

!

% % ! ! ! ! ! ! ! !! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ' ' '

!

% % ! ! ! ! ! ! ! !! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ' ' '

!

% % ! ! ! ! ! ! ! !! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ' ' '

!

% % ! ! ! ! ! ! ! !! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ' ' '

!

% % ! ! ! ! ! ! ! !! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ' ' '

!

% % ! ! ! ! ! ! ! !! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ' ' '

!

% % ! ! ! ! ! ! ! !! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ' ' '

!

% % ! ! ! ! ! ! ! !! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ' ' '

!

% % ! ! ! ! ! ! ! !! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ' ' '

!

% % ! ! ! ! ! ! ! !! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ' ' '

!

% % ! ! ! ! ! ! ! !! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ' ' '

!

% % ! ! ! ! ! ! ! !! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ' ' '

!

% % ! ! ! ! ! ! ! !! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ' ' '

!

% % ! ! ! ! ! ! ! !! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ' ' '

!

% % ! ! ! ! ! ! ! !! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ' ' '

!

% % ! ! ! ! ! ! ! !! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ' ' '

!

% % ! ! ! ! ! ! ! !! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ' ' '

!

% % ! ! ! ! ! ! ! !! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ' ' '

!

% % ! ! ! ! ! ! ! !! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ' ' '

!

% % ! ! ! ! ! ! ! !! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ' ' '

!

% % ! ! ! ! ! ! ! !! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ' ' '

!

% % ! ! ! ! ! ! ! !! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ' ' '

!

% % ! ! ! ! ! ! ! !! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ' ' '

!

% % ! ! ! ! ! ! ! !! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ' ' '

!

% % ! ! ! ! ! ! ! !! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ' ' '

!

% % ! ! ! ! ! ! ! !! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ' ' '

!

% % ! ! ! ! ! ! ! !! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ' ' '

!

% % ! ! ! ! ! ! ! !! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ' ' '

!

% % ! ! ! ! ! ! ! !! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ' ' '

!

% % ! ! ! ! ! ! ! !! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ' ' '

!

% % ! ! ! ! ! ! ! !! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ' ' '

!

% % ! ! ! ! ! ! ! !! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ' ' '


3

www.sccci.co.uk

FOREWORD

Welcome to this edition of ‘4FRONT’. This is thelargest magazine we’ve produced for many years.The reason for this is the enormous amount ofgood news in South Cheshire.

The good news continues to roll off theproduction line at Bentley, with the fantasticannouncement of £800 million investment byVolkswagen in their Crewe site which includes1000 jobs with 400 based locally. The plannedSports Utility Vehicle (SUV) will complement theexisting range of vehicles which as reported inprevious magazines continues to sell extremelywell around the world. We should know as ourexport documentation department is kept verybusy! Bentley is a real inspiration to businesseslocally and flies the flag for our engineeringexcellence and skills base in South Cheshire.

Hopefully it will be our engineering skills basethat can make the most of the High Speed 2Infrastructure project that was announced earlierin the year. At our recent Annual Dinner at theprestigious surroundings of Crewe Hall, our guestspeaker Alison Munro, Chief Executive of HS2Limited, explained the benefits of the HS2development, not just about the need foradditional capacity on the line, but how Crewe iswell placed to benefit from the 50,000 jobs thehigh speed link would create in construction,rolling stock manufacture and station operationsincluding a maintenance depot.

Despite the controversy surrounding the project,“HS2 is going ahead” announced Alison on theevening and it is important that Crewe is ready tomake the most of this development and graspthe opportunities available with both hands.

On top of these announcements, there was moregood news for South Cheshire with Cheshire EastCouncil declaring that Crewe could be at thecentre of geothermal energy deep beneath theground. It is estimated that there will be enoughnatural energy supplies to heat every home inCheshire East for centuries to come. It is in the

early stages of a feasibility study but indicationsare that this could be a big plus for Crewe andSouth Cheshire.

These announcements continue to raise theconfidence levels within businesses in SouthCheshire and at the recent Jobs Fair organisedalong with Edward Timpson MP it was great tosee nearly fifty companies with various vacanciesavailable for local people.

It is very easy to get caught up in the largeheadline grabbing announcements, but as you will see in the magazine, there are companies ofall sizes performing very well and makingsignificant contributions to the economy in SouthCheshire with plenty of good news that shouldbe applauded.

It is clear that there are plenty of positivedevelopments taking place in South Cheshire andmore importantly there is more to come as longas we can all work together and be ready tograsp those opportunities that presentthemselves to us.

In this edition of ‘4FRONT’ we have included aDirectory of our Chamber Members which Ihope you find useful and should your companywish to get involved with the Chamber thenplease do not hesitate to get in touch with oneof the team.

I hope you enjoy this magazine and if yourcompany has good news to share for the nextissue please make sure you submit your article toTina at the Chamber. I hope that ‘4FRONT’continues to grow with even more good news infuture issues.

Chief Executive

Welcometo the Summer edition of4Front, the magazine forbusinesses in South Cheshire

Chamber Team

Paul ColmanChief Executive

Jon BarnesChamber Executive- International Trade

Co-ordinator

Tina HankeyChamber Executive -

Membership Co-ordinator

Nadeem AhmedChamber Executive -Business Engagement & ICT Development

Madeleine AbbeyChamber Executive- Events & Marketing

Anne XiourouppaAccounts

Richard WeildingBusiness Loans Executive

Erika FloodgateCEO Administration

Apprenticeto Paul Colman

For Articles and Advertising Salesplease contact:Tina Hankey

South Cheshire Chamber, Lyme Building, Westmere Drive,

Crewe Business Park, Crewe CW1 6ZDTel: 01270 504700 • Ext 16

Fax: 01270 504701 Email: [email protected]

Paul WilcoxUKTI

The Chamber, or any of its agents/representatives/staff, cannot accept any legal liability for the accuracy of the news items and articles contained in the magazine, whichhave been obtained and are reproduced in good faith. The Chamber also reserves the right to edit articles submitted for publication or exclude them completely.

Clair ViscoBusiness Travel Planning Officer


4

Summer Edition 2013

NEW MEMBERS

Meet our new members . .

UK Fuels LimitedEurocard Centre, Herald Drive, CreweCheshire CW1 6EGTel: 0844 880 2468Fuel transaction management - Service provider

Resmar LimitedUnit 27, King Street Trading Estate, Middlewich,Cheshire CW10 9LFMobile: 07970 723 525Health & Safety

Jaymac Electrical6 Firbeck Gardens, Crewe, Cheshire CW2 8UPMobile: 07882 047 002Electrical

Employment Law Solutions42 Sheppenhall Grove Aston, near Nantwich,Cheshire CWE5 8DFTel: 01270 781 006Fax: 01270 780 007Employment Law & Health & Safety Consultants

X2 Communications LimitedUnits 1 - 2, Moss Lane Business Centre, Moss LaneSandbach, Cheshire CW11 3YXTel: 0844 854 9700Telecoms

Enterprise Japan - UKRose Cottage, 66 Swanlow Lane, Winsford,Cheshire CW7 1JEMobile: 07538 865 345Training

FR Marketing36 Crewe Road, Nantwich, Cheshire CW5 6HUMobile: 07912 447 000Marketing

Momentum Factor Europe Ltd109 Kestrel Drive, Crewe, Cheshire CW1 3YXTel: 01270 628 362Marketing Communications

Alsager Golf & Country ClubAudley Road, Alsager, Stoke-on-TrentStaffordshire ST7 2URTel: 01270 875 700Leisure

Crewe Lyceum TheatreHeath Street, Crewe, Cheshire CW1 2DATel: 01270 368 242Theatre Arts (Dance, Drama & Singing)

West 16 LtdDatum House, Electra Way, Crewe, Cheshire CW1 6ZFTel: 0845 576 0654Telecoms

Opening Doors LimitedDane Mill Business Centre, Broadhurst LaneCongleton, Cheshire CW12 1LATel: 01260 285 815Marketing

Architectural Drafting Service2 Dunnockswood, Stoke-on-Trent, Staffordshire ST7 2XUMobile: 07725 004 592Architects

Pure Ground Surface Specialists2 The Boundary, Woore, Crewe, Cheshire CW3 9QYMobile: 07527 136 054Landscaping & Driveways

ICO Consulting LimitedLaidon Avenue, Crewe, Cheshire CW2 6RUMobile: 07745 324 118Consultants

Risk Watch Training LimitedApartment 6, Laburnum Court, Springfield DriveCrewe, Cheshire CW2 6NZ01270 668 695Training

Global Film MakersRookery View, Pexhill Road, HenburyMacclesfield, Cheshire SK11 9PYTel: 01625 664 499Film & Video

Action For Children501 Birchwood One, Dewhurst RoadBirchwood , Warrington, Cheshire WA3 7GB01925 850 856Charity

Business DoctorsRiverside, Mountbatten Way, Congleton,Cheshire CW12 1DYTel: 0845 504 9336Mobile: 07774 271 272Consultants

Cheshire Neighbours Credit Union Credit Union, 257 Edleston Road, Crewe,Cheshire CW2 7EATel: 01270 685 625Financial Services

DNA Windows and Home Improvements Ltd55 - 57 Remer Street, Crewe, Cheshire CW1 4LUTel : 01270 848 610Email: [email protected]: www.dnawindows.co.ukConservatories, windows & doors

For more information on joining the Chamber contact Tina on 01270 504700 Ext 16 or email [email protected] you would like a meeting with a member of the Chamber Team, please contact the Chamber on 01270 504700


5

www.sccci.co.uk

CHAMBER NEWS

A wide variety of local businesses wererepresented when South CheshireChamber staged an open morning fornew and prospective members.

It was the second event to be staged bythe Chamber to welcome newmembers while highlighting the benefitsof being part of the organisation tobusinesses looking to join.

Joining Chamber staff at CreweBusiness Park were South Cheshirebusiness owners and employees fromthe fields of marketing, photography,architectural design, childcare, retail andlaw.

Attendees heard about the variousnetworking and promotionalopportunities for members includingevents, Chamber Portal, E-newsletterand 4Front business magazine and howthe Chamber helps exporters.

Events and Marketing ExecutiveMadeleine Abbey said: “Attending largeevents as a new member can be a littledaunting and the Welcome Morningsoffer a chance to make new contacts inbusiness in an informal way.

“They are also a great way to get toknow the Chamber and find out how itcan support you in business.”

The next Welcome Morning will beheld on 6 September

For more information callMadeleine Abbey on 01270 504700

ChamberForthcomingEvents 2013

Businesses drawn to Chamber HQ

Three Chamber Hog Roast7th August 2013 at Clonter Opera, Congleton

Chamber Welcome Morning6th September 2013 at South Cheshire Chamber

AGM & Annual Business Luncheon19th September 2013 at Wychwood Park Hotel

Export Club date TBC September 2013

Tour for Members date TBC September / October 2013

Networking Evening at MMU Cheshiredate TBC October 2013

Annual Golf Tournament15th October 2013 at Crewe Golf Club

Joint Networking Lunch with East Cheshire Chamber17th October at Cranage Hall

Chamber Welcome Morning8th November 2013 at South CheshireChamber

Chamber Business Awards 22nd November 2013 at Crewe Hall

Export Clubdate TBC December 2013

Christmas Networking Lunch13th December 2013 at Rookery Hall

Chamber events are being updateddaily so keep an eye on the websiteand newsletter – and don’t forgetthe Chamber Member InteractivePortal where you can also promoteyour own events www.sccci.co.uk

Autumn Issue due out 11th November 2013Editorial Deadline27th September 2013Contact [email protected] Deadline25th October 2013Contact [email protected]

Back: Les Wilcox, Opening Doors; JamieStewart, Momentum Factor and Keith Harper,Chocyholics. Front: Ruth Bayley, Healing withPhotography; Ivy Wong Tebbitts, Tebbitts & Co;Emma Johnson, Enterprise Japan UK. Otherattendees not pictured were: Daniel Matthias,Architectural Drafting Service; Jeremy Miles,

Miles Ahead and Rachael Browne, Excel Fostering

Businesses have been encouraged to takeup the pedometer challenge in a bid toboost health and well-being in theworkplace.

The Chamber teamed up with itsmembers, CTC Healthcare, and Patrons SGWorld and Air Products to promote thenational Activity4Charity Challenge.Workplaces across South Cheshire hadbeing asked to join them in taking 10,000steps a day for six weeks.

Chamber Chief Executive Paul Colmansaid: “Too many of us spend hours sitting atour desks throughout the day when it iswidely documented that a fitter workforce

is more motivated and productive.

“Just taking a walk at lunchtimes can aidconcentration, boost morale and bebeneficial to health.”

The challenge encouraged everyone totake 30 minutes of physical activity a day.

Organisations that took part were issuedwith activity sensors - pedometers - tonotch up the steps they took over sixweeks.

Paul added: “Some companies were usingthe opportunity to raise money for charitythrough the challenge. The Chamber raisesmoney for good causes with a number ofevents through the year but with thisinitiative we hope to spread the word offitness in the workplace alongside CTC.”

Combined Therapy Centres (CTC), whichhas bases across South Cheshire andStaffordshire, has introduced a newcategory to the Chamber’s BusinessAwards taking place at Crewe Hall onNovember 22.

The Health and Wellbeing award willhonour businesses that promote a healthyand happy workforce.

For more information on joining theChamber call 01270 504700

Step out to boost a healthy andhappy workforce

Chamber Chief Executive Paul Colman (front)Michael Emanuel of CTC, Jay Shinger-Bretherton ofAir Products and Emily Bridgwood of SG World with

their pedometers


6

Summer Edition 2013

CHAMBER NEWS

South Cheshire Chamber members were taken on a behind thescenes tour of one of the oldest supporters of the organisation.

Representatives from a variety of local businesses, includingrecruitment, rail, law, banking and IT, were welcomed to SG Worldin Crewe.

The company, which employs 130 people at Duchy Road,specialises in visitor management for people, property and placesand is a long-standing Patron of the Chamber.

Director of Communications Steve Floodgate said: “SG World hasbeen associated with the Chamber for some 25 years andsupports its work in the business community. The open eventgave members from a variety of local businesses a chance tonetwork and us an opportunity to showcase our services.”

Chamber members saw visitor passes and specialist ID systemsbeing created and saw how an order is processed and completed.

Patron welcomes Chambermembers

15% OFF FOR SOUTH CHESHIRE CHAMBER MEMBERS

5-11 Mill Street, Crewe, Cheshire CW2 7AETelephone: 01270 580716 Email: [email protected]: www.platts-uk.com

That’s how the Prime Minister welcomedBentley’s plans to build its Sports UtilityVehicle at Pyms Lane.

Touring the factory on the day of theannouncement, David Cameron toldworkers “It’s a massive vote ofconfidence in the workforce of Bentley atCrewe.

“It’s about your brilliance, your skill, youringenuity that we are going to be makingthis great car here in Britain and 70% ofthe value of the car is going to be addedright here in Crewe.”

The SUV will go on sale in 2016. It willcreate over 1000 jobs in the UK – 400 ofthem at Crewe.

Over the next three years Bentley willinvest more than £800 million in itsCrewe headquarters and thedevelopment of new models.

The PM added: “One sector that weknow is sprinting ahead in the global raceis our booming automotive industry. Onevehicle rolls off a production linesomewhere in the UK every 20 secondsand we have just launched theGovernment’s Automotive IndustrialStrategy to help continue this success foryears to come.

“I am delighted that Bentley will bebuilding their new vehicle here, not onlycreating 1000 jobs, but safeguarding manymore, as well as increasing trainingopportunities for highly skilledapprentices.”

Bentley says the SUV will be athoroughbred. True to the brand, it willbe the most luxurious and most

powerful vehicle of its type.

The response from customers to aBentley SUV has been extremely positivein the last 16 months..”

Bentley sales continue to grow -See page 18

Good news for Crewe, Good news for SouthCheshire and good news for the country . . .

The Prime Minister on the production line

Bentley has onceagain proved a realinspiration to thelocal businesscommunity. Thecompany continuesto put Crewe onthe map forengineering excellence and thisnews allows us to fly the flag for ourskills base here in South Cheshire.

There have been some veryencouraging statistics indicating signs of economic recovery in thearea and news like this allows us all to feel more confident about the future.

Paul Colman, Chief Executive, SouthCheshire Chamber of Commerce

FRONT COVER: Picture courtesy of Crewe Chronicle


430 Total Chamber Members

199 New Registrations Since Launch

Total Online Members(including employee profiles) 670

New Members Since Launch 4519 Chamber Events Member Events 5574 Total Events Total Training 5885 Total Blogs Total Chamber Blogs 1768 Total Member Blogs

Total News 16563 Total Chamber News

Total Member News 102301 Total Photo’s

272 Total Company/Employee Photo’s

Total Video’s 23

136 Messaging System Messages

New Groups 1042 Group Messages

Total Status Updates 1177 Total Poll

Total Comments 329

7

www.sccci.co.uk

CHAMBER NEWS

Chamber Business Community Co-ordinator Nadeem Ahmadpresents an update on the Portal

When evaluating the essence ofwhat a membershiporganisation offer is built around– information sharing,collaboration and networkingare some of the key attributesthat stand out.

Membership organisations arenot like a typical business selling

products or goods. We’re selling benefits which areoften intangible. These benefits manifest periodicallythroughout the year as notifications, newsletters,magazines, seminars, presentations, information packs,emails and networking opportunities.

These benefits also happen to be the main uses ofonline social networking platforms such as theChamber Portal, available to the South CheshireChamber Members for free, and as an integral part oftheir Chamber membership.

The Chamber Portal provides a place for all of the keyattributes of the Chamber membership to live and beeasily accessed by the members. Through thisplatform, members can communicate, learn,contribute, share and network with the Chamber andother individuals and organisations that are part of theChamber network. The platform presents theopportunity for those with shared interests to bridgeinformation gaps, keep in touch 24/7/365 andeffectively collaborate even if geographically dispersed.

The Chamber Portal has been designed to serve as aplace for member organisations, their staff, boardmembers and Chamber staff to share valuableinformation and contact details around the clock—andwithin a trusted network.

Organisations can post announcements, news, photosand videos and use the Portal as their main source ofinformation about other businesses within the localbusiness community. The platform can also be used topost blogs for thought leaders to share their insight,and develop groups for constituents to tap into thecollective wisdom of their organisations.

The Chamber would like to actively encouragemembers to participate in the Chamber Portal as wellas invite new business to be part of the local businesscommunity platform.

An active and growing business community is for thebenefit of all involved and will help to create a vibrantenvironment for networking, information exchange,promotion, business development and growth.

Testimonials

“The Chamber Members Portal is an excellentpackage, easy to use, ...Love using it."Linda Ross, Medica Packaging Ltd.

“Chamber Members if you haven’t yet started to usethe Chamber Portal you should! Notwithstanding thefact that you can very easily advertise your companyand its offerings via its capabilities you also have oneof the friendliest and knowledgeable staff membersin Nadeem Ahmad to assist who is willing to guidetechnophobic like me and maybe you get the verybest user experience…enjoy and prosper!”Nick Bailey, Apex Selling


8

Summer Edition 2013

CHAMBER / MEMBERS NEWS

Dorothy Chennell, Director ofTraining and Development at theLady Verdin Trust, was awarded aprestigious finalist trophy at theGreat British Care Awards inLondon.

The event, supported by theDepartment of Health, celebratedregional winners from the homecare sector.

Dorothy, who works tirelessly toraise the profile of people withlearning disabilities through high-quality training and development ofboth staff and clients, was one ofsix finalists shortlisted for the Putting People First Award.

She said: “It was a great chance for the Trust to be recognised andrewarded as leading the way within the care industry.

“Although I was not the eventual winner, I did receive a trophy forbeing a finalist and whatever we do, win or lose, we all know thereal winners are our clients, thanks to the on-going commitmentand dedication of all the staff that work at the Trust.”

The Lady Verdin Trust supports adults with learning disabilities in Crewe and Nantwich. For more information visitwww.ladyverdintrust.org.uk

Devoted Dorothy receivescare award

Dorothy Chennell, with her GreatBritish Care Awards finalist trophy

Many of you will not besurprised to learn that our local employmentsituation has improvedsignificantly in the lastyear.

And nationally, there arerecord numbers of womenin work, fewer youngpeople unemployed andmore vacancies availablefor those looking for work.The claimant count is nowlower than it was in May2010, when thisgovernment came intooffice.

The number of jobseekers in Crewe and Nantwich hasactually dropped by 11.4 per cent, and whilst that's a verypositive sign, there are still a lot of people out there wecan help get into work. That's why, in partnership withthe South Cheshire Chamber, I organised another JobsFair at Crewe Alex on Thursday 27 June.

Since the Government took office, the private sector hascreated 1.25 million new jobs.

Within 10 miles of the centre of Crewe, there are over3,700 jobs advertised. Increase that range to 20 milesand it's over 15,000. In Crewe and Nantwich 2,050jobseekers were recorded in June 2013. So the jobs areout there, and it's a question of matching the right skillsand the right people to the right job.

That's what my annual Jobs Fair tries to help achieve -bringing 2,000 plus job seekers into eye-ball contact withlocal employers looking for fresh recruits. But's it's notjust a recruitment fair.

We have people on hand to provide advice about theskills and training needed to make jobseekerscompetitive in the marketplace.

Sometimes it's a question of those seeking workunderstanding what extra they need in order to get thejob they're happy with, whether that be gaining a work-based employer-led vocational qualification valued bybusiness or getting some character-building volunteeringexperience.

So whilst headline rates of unemployment vary acrossthe country, we shouldn’t forget the real progress we'remaking in Crewe and Nantwich. But it's right that wearen't complacent.

To be respected in the world economy and to push forgrowth, we in the UK need to do all that we can to backpeople who want to work hard and get on in life, and inCrewe and Nantwich we have to make our contributionto that effort.

The Chamber, its members and staff should be proud oftheir key contribution that has helped breatheconfidence back into our local jobs market.

To contact Edward Timpson MP call his Creweoffice on 01270 501725

Edward Timpson MP


9

www.sccci.co.uk

MEMBERS NEWS

The County Group (incorporating County Insurance)has acquired Newcastle under Lyme based commercialinsurance broker JSW Insurance Services Ltd.

JSW Insurance has been established since 2003 and ispredominately a commercial insurance broker.Alongside their core business of commercial insurance,they also have sub-brands such as Landlordsure.co.uk,Director Protector.co.uk and Verminator.co.uk. Itcommenced trading at a similar time to CountyInsurance, in 2003, and both firms will be celebrating 10years trading this year.

Dave Clapp, Managing Director of the County Group,said: “What really attracted us to JSW Insurance is thatthey are a perfect fit for us. They are a marketing ledcompany and have grown their business in a healthybut controlled manner over the years, with an appetiteto keep growing further. Their business has beenextremely well run, with a loyal client base due to theexcellence of the JSW account management team.”

The acquisition will see the County Group control inexcess of £35 million next year, with a branch networkof eight offices and workforce of 150.

Mr Clapp added: “We have a business plan we areworking to. With a couple more acquisitions and thesame trend of organic growth that both businesseshave enjoyed over the last 10 years, we are confidentthat our plan of achieving £50million written premiumwill be achieved within the next four years”.

Nathan Walton, Managing Director, JSW Insurancecommented “I’m really pleased about JSW joining theCounty Group – we have similar business philosophiesand we see them as an exceptional fit to ensure ourbusiness and our people flourish. I know Dave Clappand the County Management team very well and weare tremendously excited about our future plans togrow the combined business significantly”.

For more information call 0800 980 3466

Insurers go fromstrength to strengthwith new acquisition

Packaged marketing andtranslation service for newexporters International marketing specialists Tetra Marketing (Tetra) andtranslation service provider TW Languages (TWL) have combinedto offer a fully managed and integrated approach to companieslooking at export channels for the first time.

Backed up by more than 20 years marketing managementexperience, rapidly expanding Manchester marketing agency Tetrahas built up a valued portfolio of retained clients mainlyspecialising in the manufacturing, energy, construction andindustrial sectors. The company provides a complete internationaland export marketing support service to help North Westcompanies expand into new global markets.

TW Languages delivers high quality, multi-lingual translations forbusiness markets throughout the world. The company works inover 150 languages, and has more than 20 years of business andlinguistics experience in project managing large complex technicaland scientific translations.

In recent months Tetra and TWL have worked on projectsinvolving a wide variety of industrial products. Typically the processwill involve Tetra providing marketing advice and guidance to theclient in the early stages as well as developing a comprehensiveinternational marketing strategy. Tetra is then able to implementany resulting activities using its in-house team of graphic designers,web programmers and PR copywriters.

In one instance, having already designed and printed a corporatebrochure in English for a key client, Tetra defined four key targetcountries and then worked with TWL to ensure smoothmanagement of translation of the client’s corporate brochure intoChinese, Russian, French and Spanish.

The entire process was completed within just five working days,enabling the brochures to be quickly sent out to the client’sdistributors and also to be used at a global exhibition in Malaysia.

A spokesman said: “This kind of responsiveness would be hard toreplicate even within much bigger companies with their own in-house marketing and translation teams. The service thereby offersgreat flexibility and instant on-hand expertise to any regional SMEsand manufacturing companies looking to take their first tentativesteps into the export arena.”

For more information on TW Languages visitwww.twlanguages.com and for Tetra visitwww.tetramarketing.co.uk


10

Summer Edition 2013

MEMBERS NEWS

Combermere Abbey carried off a GoldAward at the VisitEngland’s ‘Awards ofExcellence.’

It fended off tough competition to win‘Self-Catering Holiday Provider of theYear’ making its cottages officially thebest that England has to offer.

Commenting on the Award JamesBeresford, VisitEngland’s Chief Executivesaid: “The quality of the 320 applicationswe received was very high making thecompetition for a Gold Award extremelytough.

“It is therefore a tremendousachievement for Combermere Abbey towin a Gold Award, the highest accoladefor Excellence in Tourism whichVisitEngland can bestow. They raised the

bar for excellence which others canaspire to.”

The team celebrated their win at aglittering black tie awards ceremony atOld Trafford.

Sarah Callander Beckett, CombermereAbbey’s owner, said: “This is the pinnacleof 20 years of consistent dedication andinvestment to consistently improve andadd value to our product. Our repeatclients show us that we are doingsomething right and this national awardis certainly the icing on the cake!”

The ten cottages are popular withwedding guests at the Abbey estate aswell as leisure guests visiting theCheshire and Shropshire regions.

For more information onCombermere cottages call 01948 662876

Combermere strikes gold with holiday cottages

Leonard Brothers Vets has marked its 1stanniversary in Wistaston with a series ofmilestone events.

The birthday was celebrated with an openevening giving clients and friends anopportunity to meet ‘That Vet off the TV’Steve Leonard.

That came hot on the heels of a MadHatters Tea Party which raised £367.40 forthe Blue Cross animal charity and newsthat the surgery had been nominated as‘Practice of the Year’ in the Petplan andADCH Animal Charity Awards.

The awards recognise the hard work,dedication and commitment of animalcharities and the people who work andvolunteer for them, so being nominatedwas a great achievement and LBVC wasawarded a certificate.

Meanwhile two members of staff havebeen appointed, veterinary dermatologistIngrid Segboer and receptionist SusieCottiga who join a team of threereceptionists, four vets and six nurses

A spokesman said: “Leonard Brothers feltthat in the current economic climate, theytook a bold step in opening a secondpractice, but even after a few months itwas obvious the right decision had beenmade. The practice has gone from strengthto strength and client and staff numbersare continuing to grow.”

For more information call LeonardBrothers Vets in Wistaston on 01270 652121 or visit www.lbvc.co.uk

Veterinary brothers go from strength to strength

Ingrid Segboer, Lauren Hinchcliffe-Mosley, SusieCottiga, Tom Leonard, Lauren Buckley marking the

1st anniversary of Leonard Brothers Vets

Church-goers and a supermarket have thrown their weight behindArch’s ‘Stepping Stones’ appeal to support children and youngpeople who have experienced or witnessed domestic violenceand abuse.

Minshull United Reformed Church has donated £1,000 whileSainsbury’s at Crewe has named it Charity of the Year.

Arch’s Corporate & Community Partnership Manager Ray Elks said:“Our children’s workers at our refuge houses including LorraineHouse in Crewe build a trusting bond with the children and youngpeople and support/help them on their journey of recovery.

“We are extremely grateful for the donation from Minshull UnitedReformed Church and look forward to working with Sainsbury’sover the next 12 months.

“In both cases the support/monies raised will go specificallytowards this work at Lorraine House in Crewe”.

Arch gets double bonus from South Cheshire

Stepping Stones AppealSupporting children who are the forgotten victims of domestic violence

Children are the forgotten victims of domestic violence

The Combermere team collecting their Awardfrom Lady Cobham, Chairman of Visit England

For further information about the work of Arch contactRay Elks on 07990588639 or [email protected]


11

www.sccci.co.uk

MEMBERS NEWS

Design talenthelps sow seedsfor future growth

Animal feed specialists, H J LeaOakes, have appointed up-and-coming design agency, TR Creative, tohelp take their product ranges to thenext level with a brand makeover.

Graphic Design experts, LynseyEdwards and Mike Lawson, based atStapeley House in Nantwich, havebeen appointed by the long-established, family-run manufacturerto design new-look packaging and awebsite as part of plans to grow thebusiness.

H J Lea Oakes is one of the longestestablished independent animal feedmanufacturers in Britain with ahistory dating back to SwettenhamMill in 1675 where the Lea familybegan milling feeds to supply theCheshire farming community.

Commenting on the project, Lynseyfrom TR Creative said: ‘We aredelighted at the opportunity to workwith H J Lea Oakes on such afundamental part of their excitingplans and we hope this is thebeginning of a successful long termpartnership’.

Anwen Gardner, Marketing Executiveat H J Lea Oakes said: ‘We are veryhappy to be working with TRCreativeand it’s handy to have such atalented resource on our doorstep.”

For more information about TRCreative, call Lynsey or Mike on01270 610441 or visit the websiteat www.trcreative.com

Chamber members offer success on a plate

The Chamber and several members have thrown their weight behind the festival.

Supporting it again are Mornflake, Cheshire East Council, Bentley, Pure PR, ESTC,Rookery Hall, Temples, Redshift Radio, Barringtons and Nantwich Town Council.

Several new sponsors have come onboard including Hall Smith Whittingham inNantwich and Magenta in Crewe.

Steven Coles, head of conveyancing at the law firm, said: “Our conveyancingdepartment is all about helping families buy their homes and settle in SouthCheshire with minimum fuss and a great many of our clients will enjoy all thefestival has to offer in September.”

Magenta is providing its health and safety expertise. Spokesman Simon Walter said:“With so many people expected it’s important to have health and safety coveredand we were delighted to help out.”

The Chamber and Chronicle group is lending a hand through promotion in theirpublications.

Festival offers plenty toset tastebuds tingling

Nantwich Food and Drink Festival is set toturn the town into a foodie paradise.

This year’s festival, taking place September6-8, is even bigger with a new marquee onChurch Lane car-park. It will accommodatea massive food emporium filled withdelicacies and drinks from around theglobe.

Another huge marquee, the MornflakeFood Hall, will be sited on the bowlinggreen carpark where a food court will alsooffer traditional and unusual take-awayfoods such as ostrich and zebra burgers aswell as fajitas, samosas, noodles andgoulash.

Also new this year is a family marqueeoffering a packed programme of familyentertainment and activities at Residencerestaurant on Mill Street.

After its successful launch last year, thetown square will be the venue for a seatedFood Theatre where chefs from top

restaurants will show off their skills on aspecially-installed stage. Entry to all themarquees are free of charge.

Other venues will include the White Horse,Cocoa Yard, Churchyardside and PepperStreet. Food shops across town will offersamples and stage displays while non-foodshops are playing their part by offeringdiscounts on goods.

Jan Roberts of Nantwich-based Pure PR,which handles publicity, said: “Last year’sfestival attracted over 30,000 people andgenerated some £2 million income for thetown. Judging by the response so far, welook set to exceed that.

“Once again families can wander around,soak up the atmosphere and sample thedelicacies, without spending a penny onentry fees. Everywhere we go people aredelighted to hear that.”

For the latest festival news visitwww.nantwichfoodfestival.co.uk

Lynsey Edwards and Mike Lawson of TRCreative with Anwen Gardner of H J LeaOakes at the firm’s Wheelock base

Picture by Jan Roberts of Pure PR

Ingredients for success: Nantwich Food and DrinkFestival chairman Deborah Robb with lawyersRichard Morgan-Wynne and Steven Coles of HallSmith Whittingham and secretaries Jane Hendley

and Sarah Tricket

Safe hands: Dave Roberts (centre) of Magentawith business partners Adam and Simon Walterare providing health and safety advice to

Nantwich Food and Drink Festival


12

Summer Edition 2013

MEMBERS NEWS

The £28.5m project to bring superfastbroadband to Cheshire was officiallylaunched on the start line at the OultonPark race circuit at Tarporley.

By 2016 over 96 per cent of Cheshirepremises will be able to access high-speedfibre broadband making the county one ofthe best connected regions in the UK.

Over 100 community Digital Championsattended the event at Oulton Park to hearhow the new fibre network will be rolledout to rural premises and build on thenetworks already available in urban areas.

The Connecting Cheshire Partnership ofthe four Cheshire councils and BT hassecured European, local and centralgovernment funding to provide additionalrural broadband infrastructure to over80,000 premises.

As a result more than 400,000 premisesacross Cheshire, Halton and Warrington,should have access to broadband speedsof up to 80Mbps by the end of 2016.

Leader of Cheshire East Council MichaelJones said “Faster broadband speeds will

make a huge difference to everyone, soplease bear with us as we start work withBT to undertake the complex planning andsurveying of Cheshire in order that we candeploy the network efficiently and speedilyfrom early next year.”

Connecting Cheshire expects to be ableto announce which communities will beincluded in the first stage of the roll-outduring December 2013.

Connecting Cheshire gets off to a Superfast start

Enterprising entrepreneurs are beingchallenged to raise cash for The DonnaLouise Children’s Hospice with a start-upfund of £50 to launch a business idea.

The Donna Louise Children’s Hospice isnow looking for teams and businesses totake up The Enterprise Challenge in arace to find the most innovative,enterprising and successful money-making project.

This new fundraising campaign aims tohelp raise funds towards the Hospice’sannual running costs of £2.5m.

Teams can enter now and will need toraise as much money as they can for the

Hospice between October andDecember. There are a number ofdifferent categories for teams to enter:

Young Entrepreneur (up to the age of19), Future Entrepreneur (open to teamsfrom universities and colleges) andBusiness Entrepreneur (open to teams often from the business community).

Spokeswoman Melanie Williams said:“We have a great entrepreneurial spirit inthis area so we are looking for people toget inspired and be creative. Ideas couldrange from a bake sale or a car washthrough to a team jail break or even aball.

“We are also hoping some teams aregoing to come up with a unique productand show the candidates on BBC1’s ‘TheApprentice’ how to do things.”

For more information on TheEnterprise Challenge go towww.donnalouisetrust.org

Entrepreneurs challenged to cash in for charity

Mercer & Co Accountants in Nantwich issponsoring and hosting a Business Awardsday for second year business studiesstudents of South Cheshire College.

The firm is puttingtogether a project inconjunction with IainPatrick, Head of Business,which will underpin thecurriculum and helpstudents broaden theirunderstanding of startinga new business andlaunching new products.

Mr Steve Mercer, MD at Mercer & Co, saidit was a wonderful opportunity to use thefirm’s wealth of experience and expertiseto potentially help some of the UK’s ‘upand coming’ entrepreneurs. He said: “In aprevious life I spent 17 years working incommerce and industry at the sharp endof some of Europe’s largest companies andour clients continually get the benefit ofthe firm’s knowledge base.”

The project will cover areas such as,product conception, market research(target market), costing & pricing, sales &marketing, cashflow forecast, the business

model and a sound conclusion detailingwhy the project should win first prize.

The individual projects will be developedby 30 business studies students split intogroups and will culminate in a presentationday on October 9 when they will presenttheir projects to a panel of businessmenand women. MP Stephen O’Brien haskindly agreed to be a member.

For more information call Mercer &Co on 01270 619955

Accountants set business challenge to students

On the start-line at Oulton Park, left to right – Julian Cobley - Project Director Connecting Cheshire; Cllr Lynn Riley - Executive Member Localities, Cheshire West and Chester Council; Cllr Terry O’Neill –

Leader Warrington Borough Council; Cllr Michael Jones – Leader Cheshire East Council; Howard Hopwood - Deputy Chair Cheshire & Warrington Local Enterprise Partnership and

Bill Murphy - Managing Director, BT Next Generation Access.

Steve Mercer


13

www.sccci.co.uk

MEMBERS NEWS

Rookery Hall is celebrating two majorawards for its spa by investing in high-techfitness facilities and age-defying beautytreatments.

The country mansion scooped ResidentialSpa of the Year at the Professional BeautyAwards after judges praised its luxurysurroundings and customer care.

Hot off the heels of that came the ‘FiveBubble’ award from the Good Spa Guide.

Visitors had a taste of the facilities during aspecial open evening marking the arrival ofa new Caci Ultimate machine offering thelatest in non-surgical facelift treatments.

The facial-toning system loved bycelebrities including Jennifer Lopez andCliff Richard uses a micro-current to ‘lift’facial features and plump out deep linesand wrinkles.

Spa manager Lisa Smith said: “Caci offersfabulous results. Once people try it theystay with it for years.”

Upgrades at the spa have included newexercise equipment, air-conditioning in thegym, new Meta-fit classes and fullyrefurbished steam room and sauna.

Professional Beauty Awards judges said thespa “excelled at customer service andcreated an experience that is second tonone.”

To book treatments at Rookery Hallspa call 01270 615642

Spa makes a splash winning awards

Hotel reviews are first classThe Best Western Manor House Hotel inAlsager has been awarded a 2013TripAdvisor Certificate of Excellence forachieving outstanding customer reviewsover the 12 months – an accolade markinganother milestone in an exciting year forthe hotel.

Last summer saw a £270,000 investmentinto the hotel which included theinstallation of 29 new bathrooms, therefurbishment of 28 bedrooms and theaddition of flat screen televisions withdigital Freeview and Apple-device dockingstations into all 57 bedrooms.

In February it was sold and the newowners added a further 20 newbathrooms. The hotel is now working withdesigners on plans to refurbish the publicareas as well as the function and meetingrooms.

Sales manager Steve Alty said “Therefurbishments have transformed all thebedrooms and the plans for the rest of thehotel are very exciting.

“Customers do tell us how much theyenjoy staying here, but a TripAdvisor

Certificate of Excellence is nice to have asit is driven by our customers’ reviews ofthe hotel.”

Call BEST WESTERN Manor HouseHotel on 01270 884000

Storage apprentice gets a boost to his careerStorage Boost in Crewe has beendelighted to offer a full time position to itshard-working apprentice Paul German.

The business based on Weston Roadoffers storage for domestic or commercialuse, workshops and office space on aflexible or long term basis.

Paul had approached the company in 2011,looking for a career path and hoping toimprove his skills in business through anapprenticeship.

He took an NVQ level 2 course in Businessand Administration through Mid CheshireCollege and during this Storage Boostencouraged him to get involved in adiverse range of activities, from marketingto sales, taking deliveries and serving

customers as well as the backgroundadministration.

He said: “I was overjoyed when StorageBoost offered me the full time position.Working here I have experienced the fullcircle of the business process. I have got toknow so many different people andorganisations. It's a hub of activity with agreat atmosphere.”

For more information on StorageBoost contact 01270 250000

• See Jobs Fair page 29

Lisa Smith, spa manager, and her new beautytherapy recruits celebrate its success

Caci treatments are now available at the spa


14

Summer Edition 2013

MEMBERS NEWS

Stunning Crewe Hall, one of QHotels’ 21unique and luxury hotels, is celebratingafter being honoured with a prestigiousVenueVerdict Gold StandardAccreditation.

The Gold accreditation, which only 33venues in the UK have received thisquarter, is based on rigorous researchconducted by BDRC Continental, theUK’s largest independent market researchagency. The feedback from over 22,000delegates and customers across justunder 400 venues, looks at how likely

delegates and guests are torecommend a venue for a conference orevent.

Mart Lowerse, General Manager of CreweHall, said: “To receive this accreditationfor the first time makes everyone at thehotel very proud. This reward shows thatthe consistent hard work and level ofservice that we put into our conferenceand events has been recognised by themost important people – our conferenceand event hosts and bookers.”

Crewe Hall is still riding high afterQHotels scooped the No.1 Brand Award2012 in VenueVerdict’s Large Groupscategory at the end of last year. Out ofthe 33 venues to be given theaccreditation this quarter 12 were hotelsand five of these were part of theQHotels brand.

For more information visitwww.QHotels.co.uk/crewe-hall

Crewe Hall celebrateshospitality accreditation

A family firm is boosting its staff numbersafter scooping its second major contractwith a housing trust.

Nantwich-based environmentalspecialists Suddenstrike has won a long-term contract to provide drainageservices to the Weaver Vale HousingTrust in Northwich. The firm, based onWelshman’s Lane, already carries outspecialist cleaning and repair services inhouses managed by the trust throughoutMid Cheshire.

Office manager Emily Wilkinson said: “It’sa real coup for our newly-launcheddrainage division.

“We had to tender against many bigname firms but the trust was pleasedwith all our work so far. As a registeredcharity it looks for a good service andvalue for money. Suddenstrike ticked theright boxes again.”

Suddenstrike has invested more than£50,000 in specialist equipment, includinghigh-pressure jets and cameras whichcan investigate what’s going on under-ground and produce footage of theproblem.

It has bought new vehicles and is lookingto recruit another three members of staffto man the drains division bringing itsworkforce to 15.

Emily added: “A drain can get blocked forall sorts of reasons. Putting grease orbaby wipes down a drain are probablythe most common causes and of coursethe smell from a blocked drain is veryunpleasant. Most of the call-outs areurgent especially at commercial premiseswhere it can lead to loss of custom.

“This has rapidly become a very busy sideto our business. It’s great to be in aposition where we can make new jobsfor local people.”

For more information onSuddenstrike services and job opportunities visitwww.suddenstrike.co.uk

Firm goesunderground withnew contract

Making your business telephoneultra-efficient

Voice Over IP is a technology that helpscompanies save money on line chargesand call costs while enabling efficient andproductive working practices andimproving customer service. Yourtelephone calls use your Internetconnection rather than your traditionaltelephone line and this results in bigsavings in calls to fixed lines, mobiles andinternational numbers.

New Chamber members West 16 want toraise awareness of the 3CX Phone Systemsolution in the context of your businessneeds and the solution it can provide andbenefits it will deliver to your business.

Ben Butler said: “A 3CX Phone Systemwill integrate your desk phone, mobilephone, voice mail, email, fax, computer

desktop and customer relationshipmanagement applications.

“It doesn't matter how many extensions,remote offices, sites or enabled featuresin the software - the licence cost is thesame. Modules are available to extendthe 3CX system's functionality withindustry specific features for call centresand hotels, as well as integration withleading Customer RelationshipManagement solutions.

“Additionally, 3CX can manage mobiledevices by controlling the installedapplications, providing data security andtracking their location. It can alsoremotely lock stolen or lost devices.

“It makes sense for businesses to reviewtheir existing legacy telephony solution totake advantage of all the advancedfeatures that a modern Voice Over IPsolution from 3CX makes possible and totake advantage of the current lowerpricing.”

West 16 can provide a wide range of deskphones, cordless phones, mobiles andtablets to use with your 3CX system. Itcan also help you with your Internetbased trunk providers and the use ofmobile gateways for very low cost calls tomobiles. West 16 can also provide youwith a Cloud-based, managed 3CXsolution.

Contact 0845 576 0654 or [email protected]

Emily Wilkinson with the firm’s latest recruit Rob Cooper (left) who is helping Dave Lloyd

of the drains team


15

www.sccci.co.uk

MEMBERS NEWS

Speak to a CTC Healthcare consultant today for more information on: 01270 588 244 or email [email protected]

Save £000’s in Sickness Absence costs...... with the cost e�ective Day 1 sickness absence service from CTC.

‘the cost of work related ill health and injury in the form of absenteeism is £32 billion in the UK’PricewaterhouseCoopers, 2011

CTC Healthcare provide an immediate service to help maximise sta� attendance and reduce sickness absense costs from Day 1

Cost e�ective approach to sickness absence management.

Access to an experienced team of healthcare professionals within 24 hours.

Regular communication and progress reports provided to the employer.

Free consultation to assess business needs.

Simple monthly payment (no limit to the number of referrals).

Quick and easy service to set up.

WHY USE DAY 1 HEALTHCARE?

Garage shines on national TVABP Motorsport at Shavington worked withthe BBC to help lift the lid on a rogue trader.It worked alongside the Watchdog RogueTraders production team to expose dirtydealings at a garage in the North of England.

A film crew spent time at ABP over a twoweek period filming owner Chris Meredithand staff for the programme.

Mr Meredith said: “Watchdog approached usand asked us to be its technical experts in acase against an unnamed rogue garage inthe North of England.

“We assisted by introducing simple faultsonto a covert car in order to test the garageunder investigation while offering technicalexpertise on a number of other cars.

“After being told of the alarming number ofcomplaints against the garage in questionwe were only too pleased to help.”

ABP came to the BBC’s attention after beingcrowned National ‘Garage of the Year’ byCar and Accessory Trade (CAT) industrymagazine for the fourth year running.

For more information on ABPMotorsport call 01270 567177

BBC Watchdog presenter Matt Allwright with staff at ABP

Entrepreneur used as role modelThe Women’s Business Council inconjunction with the Government EqualitiesOffice has launched a report on theimportance of women in business.

Emma Dalzell, founder of Bare BonesMarketing based in Middlewich, wasincluded within the Council’s report as oneexample of how women at different stagesin their life can contribute to the economyand become entrepreneurs.

Emma was invited to the launch of theReport in London at a champagne receptionat the BT Tower, where Jo Swinson, JuniorEqualities Minister and Ruby McGregor-

Smith, Chair of the Women’s BusinessCouncil spoke about the report highlightingthat there are over 2.4 million women whoare not in work but want to work. There arealso over 1.3 million women who want toincrease the number of hours they work.The report highlighted the need to unblockthis mismatch and optimise the potential forthe UK’s economic growth.

Emma’s case study was used to highlight thecareer choices after having a child - shedecided to set up Bare Bones Marketing inSeptember 2011 rather than return to asenior role in a corporate organisation.

Sue France of Forward Ladies, Women's BusinessCouncil Chair Ruby McGregor-Smith CBE andEmma Dalzell of Bare Bones Marketing


16

Summer Edition 2013

PATRONS

Manchester Metropolitan University’sCheshire campus has teamed up withVirgin Trains to offer an excitingopportunity for young people thinkingabout studying business andmanagement.

From this September, a group of luckystudents will have the opportunity to havetheir university tuition fees paid for as partof Virgin Trains’ new Red Track programme.The successful applicants will be able tostart their business careers with little or nodebt plus three years first class work

experience under their belt with one ofthe world’s best known brands. Starting on2 September 2013, Virgin Trains is offering12 places on its prestigious Virgin Red Trackprogramme. It is a three-year, fixed-termfull-time management role thatincorporates a degree programmedelivered in conjunction with ManchesterMetropolitan University’s (MMU) Cheshirecampus in Crewe.

Talented entrepreneurs

Tony Collins, Chief Executive Officer ofVirgin Trains, explains: “Too many graduatesface poor job opportunities and are ladenwith debt when they graduate.

"We want to offer an amazing opportunityto the bright, talented entrepreneurs ofthe future who might be put off studyingfor a degree by the cost. We are offering athree-year, fixed-term job and a place tostudy a BA (Hons) Business Managementdegree. We are delighted to be workingwith MMU in Cheshire as our partner.Virgin Trains will pay the university fees aswell as a salary to the applicants.This is agreat example of partnership betweeneducation and the business world, and for

Virgin Trains it makes great economicsense as we are investing in 12 futureleaders of the business.”

Thrilling partnership

Dennis Dunn, Dean of the Cheshirecampus at Manchester MetropolitanUniversity, adds: “We’re thrilled to be inpartnership with Virgin Trains, who are partof one of Britain’s most successfulcompanies and who have strong links toCrewe as a rail town. The partnership todevelop leaders of the future at VirginTrains represents a contemporaryapproach to management education and isa great opportunity for our participants,the Red Track Crew. MMU specialises inworking with regional partners ondelivering exemplary training, knowledgetransfer and research within leadership andmanagement.”

For further details visit www.www.virgintrainscareers.co.uk orwww.mmu.ac.uk/cheshire

MANCHESTER METROPOLITAN UNIVERSITYDegree opportunity for young entrepreneursUniversity teams up with Virgin Trains

SG WORLD

Can your business live without live chat?SG World asked this question at thebeginning of the year as part of ourcommitment to provide our customerswith excellent customer service.

SG World wanted to see if Live Supportwas an option visitors to our websitewould take advantage of, and if we wouldsee an increase in our conversion rates asa result.

Live customer support is no longer thenovelty it once was. The “buzz” is that ifyou’re not using it, you’re more than likelymissing out on invaluable sales andsupport opportunities. A 2009 report by E-Marketer found 25% of people who used aLive Support service went on to make 50%or more of their purchases online, with a15 – 20% conversion rate for sales or salesopportunities.

SG World has trialled Live Support in theCommunications Department as part of asecond phase in web development onwww.sgworld.com, designed to optimisethe website and make it more userfriendly. With Live Support, a member ofthe Communications team can respond inreal time to our customers and supporttheir queries. SG World has found many ofour visitors have questions about ourhealth and safety or educationsafeguarding products, which can beconverted via Live Support intoappointments with our Sales Force – andsales!

Other ways we have helped customersinclude: helping them find the product theywant to purchase, assisting with purchaseson the website, checking the status oforders, answering questions aboutproducts and providing product support.Additionally, Live Support has helped usquickly identify and resolve issues with thewebsite that might negatively affect theuser experience or sales.

For many organisations, Live Support hasbecome a crucial part of their business.Initially used as a way to cut costs withincall centres by giving operators a means tohandle multiple calls and increaseefficiency, it became clear that the realsuccess came through the quality ofcustomer service.

And consumers do use Live Support; it canbe a more attractive option compared tophoning for an answer that costs themmore than the product they want to order!

For more information on SG World call 01270 500921

Let’s get talking and create sales

Gaynor Stuart (Director of the Virgin TrainingAcademy), Trevor Brown (MMU Faculty Enterprise Manager) and Joy Grant

(Senior Lecturer in Business Management)


17

www.sccci.co.uk

PATRONS

Wulvern staff, board members, contractors and partners cametogether to celebrate the affordable landlord’s 10th birthday ingreat British bake-off style!

The Crewe-based company was formed in 2003 and hasinvested over £100 million in the area, employing 240 andmanaging over 5200 homes across Crewe, Nantwich andsurrounding villages. The company is also building a further 300new homes.

Marking the milestone were key partners who have contributedto and supported Wulvern’s success including respresentativesfrom the Chartered Institute of Housing, Cheshire East Council,funders, suppliers, contractors and community partners. Thecelebrations were made possible by generous sponsorship fromCruden Construction, Travis Perkins, Phoenix Gas Services Ltd,Poole Dick Associates, David Langden, VPS Ltd, Hepher ElectricalServices Ltd, Nicol Thomas, Greenfingers Landscape Ltd,Johnson & Cawley, Savills UK and Concrete Solutions (UK) Ltd.

Guests were surprised with a bake off challenge which sawrepresentatives from Cruden Construction, Travis Perkins, PooleDick Associates, J R Tonks, Stafford & Rural Homes, NorthernPensioners Association and South Staffordshire Housing put ontheir aprons and get into the mix making and decoratingbirthday cakes.

Sue Lock, Chief Executive of Wulvern, said:

"We recognise there are many ingredients which have led to 10successful years of Wulvern. We are pleased to have made allthe improvements for customers to their homes andneighbourhoods, and met all of the promises and commitmentsmade at the time of the housing transfer. Our vision is to beknown as a great social landlord and to be Cheshire's leadingprovider of care and support. We are committed to working inpartnership with our customers and with other agencies tocontinue transform lives, homes and communities. It’s a triedand tested recipe for success!"

For more information on Wulvern Housing visitwww.wulvern.org.uk

Sue Lock, Chief Executive and Barbara Shaw, Independent Chair ofWulvern's board cut the 10th anniversary cake watched by employees

WULVERNWulvern celebrates 10 years

Accounting apprentice Ashley Kauer has been named as SouthCheshire College’s Apprentice of the Year 2013.

The 21-year-old has found theperfect formula by working fourdays a week at Hybrid Servicescombined with AAT Accountingqualifications at college.

Ashley signed up for theapprenticeship in September2012 but had worked for HybridServices as an accounts assistantfor six months previously.

The College works closely withlocal businesses and offersapprenticeships in areas such asbusiness administration, hospitality and catering, plumbing andhairdressing.

South Cheshire College Principal Peter Swift presented Ashleywith a certificate and a cheque for £50 as a prize.

SOUTH CHESHIRE COLLEGEApprenticeship is theperfect number for Ashley

South Cheshire College is set to host a new Science Centre inpartnership with the University of Oxford’s Corpus ChristiCollege from September.

Research and teaching fellows from the University and otherleading universities will use the College’s state-of-the artfacilities to deliver a series of lectures on ‘Imaging’ acrossscientific disciplines.

Lectures will cover diverse subjects such as ‘Brain Imagining’and ‘Driverless Cars’, giving students an insight into thepossibilities of studying science at a leading research university.

The Science Centre will also provide Year 12 students fromCrewe and the surrounding area with the opportunity to visitthe SuperSTEM Laboratories at Daresbury and attend acompetitive summer residential at Corpus Christi College.

An official launch event forthe new Science Centre willtake place at South CheshireCollege on September 11.

The College became theNorth West hub for OxfordUniversity’s PembrokeCollege in 2012. This link-up,called Pembroke North,focuses on improving accessfor students to competitive universities.

The Pembroke North programme helps to put students atease before they go for interviews at the world-famousuniversity. As a result, The College now has a replica don’sstudy at its Dane Bank Avenue campus which aims toencourage more students to apply for theuniversity and other leading institutions.

For more information on South Cheshire College visit www.scc.ac.uk

College is to host newscience centre


Visitors to the Coronation Festival in Julywere able to enjoy a rare opportunity tosee one of the most recognisable andelegant cars in the world, Her Majesty TheQueen’s State Limousine.

This unique Bentley, presented to TheQueen in 2002 to mark the 50thanniversary of her accession to the throne,was centrepiece of a collection of Bentleyson display in Buckingham Palace Gardensthroughout the celebrations.

Bentley’s craftsmen, designers and

engineers (in partnership with severalleading British automotive specialists)started work on ‘Project Diamond’ in 2000with the clear objective of creating a trulyelegant car suitable for every type of Royaloccasion.

The State Limousine is designed to ensureas many well-wishers as possible have theopportunity to see The Queen and Bentleycreated a ‘panoramic glasshouse’ as well asmaking the vehicle far higher than anyother car. Additionally, the rear seat positionwas determined using a model of the same

height as The Queen and the doors arehinged at the rear and open through 90degrees to enable Her Majesty to almostwalk out of the car.

18

Summer Edition 2013

PATRONS

Bentley Motorscontinues its successfulperformance as thecompany announcesglobal deliveries tocustomers have grownby nine per cent (4,279cars) against the firstsix months of 2012(3,929 cars).

Growth in Bentley’s largest market, the US,was key, as was a strong showing inEurope. The business further enhanced itsglobal presence with 14 new dealershipsintroduced in the first half of the year, a 13per cent expansion on the same time in2012.

Kevin Rose, Bentley’s Board Member forSales, Marketing and Aftersales, said: “Thissuccess has been supported by theintroduction of new models, with theContinental GT Speed and Continental GTSpeed Convertible proving successfulacross multiple regions, while the existingGT W12, V8 and Mulsanne modelsmaintain their strong performance.

“Bentley continues to post significantglobal sales growth and we are extremelyconfident we will sustain this success forthe remaining months of 2013 as we seethe full availability of our new Flying Spur inall markets.”

Bentley’s largest region, the Americas

continued its impressive performance,with 1,282 cars delivered to customers, a12 per cent increase on the same periodin 2012.

Bentleys continued to be sought after inthe Middle East, with the Continental GTV8 performing strongly. A key emergingmarket for Bentley, Russia, posted growthfigures on the back of network expansionsintroducing a new showroom in the keycity, St. Petersburg.

For more information on Bentley Motors call 01270 255155 or visitwww.bentleymotors.com

BENTLEY

Half year success for Bentley as sales continue to grow

Two talented engineers who train atReaseheath College carried off top awardsin a competition aimed at finding thenation’s best construction plant apprentices.

James Scott and Adam Hughes wereregional winners of the Construction Plant-hire Association’s ‘Stars of the Future’competition, and James went on to take thenational title for the best Level 3construction plant apprentice.

The finals of the annual competition, whichattracted entries from 11 collegesnationwide, was held during thePLANTWORX construction exhibition at

Stoneleigh Park with the prize-winnersreceiving their awards from Richard NobleOBE.

James, 25, is based at the Bodmin depot ofthe Ashtead Plant Hire Company andcompletes a return journey of 600 miles toattend Reaseheath. A family man, he is on ablock release course which entails himstaying at college for four weeks at a time.

He was chosen to represent Reaseheath inthe competition because of his commitmentto going the extra mile in both his studiesand support of fellow apprentices.

A Level 2 apprentice, Adam, 19, works in theSmethwick depot of Gunn JCB. He wasselected for his natural ability when workingon construction plant machinery and for thehigh standard of his work in both writtenand practical sessions.

Course manager Simon Keen said: “Jameshas never lost sight of his goal. Feedbackfrom his employer and, arguably moreimportantly, his customers, demonstrate afantastic interaction while Adams’ attitude to

his work, his attention to detail and hiseagerness to learn have all marked him outas the one to watch in the future.”

A record 90 construction plant apprenticeshave achieved Level 2 and Level 3qualifications with Reaseheath College this year.

For more information on Reaseheathcall 01270 625131

REASEHEATHReaseheath engineers carry off top awards

Kevin Rose

State limousine is the crowning glory

The Queen’s State Limousine

Chris Balmer, Luke Matthews and James Scottreceive their awards at Reaseheath’s

graduation ceremony

James Scott of Ashtead Plant Hire iscongratulated by Richard Noble MBE, his

mum Tina and son Logan, Reaseheath CourseManager Simon Keen and Haydn Steele of the

Construction Plant Association


19

www.sccci.co.uk

PATRONS

It’s all change for the railwaymen as theyunveil a new away strip sponsored by theCrewe-based breakfast giants.

Crewe Alexandra’s striking blue kit isgracing the pitch at away matches.Mornflake, now in its 9th year as the side’sshirt sponsor, also supports a breakfast clubfor players.

Edward Lea of the family firm said: “CreweAlex has enjoyed a great run of success and we wish them all the best in this newseason.”

The Lea family, which run one of thecountry’s oldest companies from

headquarters in Crewe, are regularly seensupporting the club alongside employees.They travelled in coachloads to see theteam carry off the Johnstone Paint Trophyat Wembley in April and were given asneak preview of the cup before it went onshow in the club shop.

Club secretary Alison Bowler said:“Mornflake is a great friend of the club andthe players wear the company logo ontheir shirts with pride.”

The newly-refurbished club shop is nowstocking the kit in all sizes. It is also anoutlet for Mornflake products.

Edward Lea and Catherine Sadler of Mornflake withCrewe Alexandra mascot Gresty the Lion and the

side’s youngest player Ryan Colclough

MORNFLAKEBlue is the colour for Mornflake-backed team

Mornflake has teamed up with a nationalheart charity to help spread the healtheating message. It is now working withHEART UK - The Cholesterol Charity - toencourage awareness of the dangers ofhigh cholesterol and to help peopleidentify simple ways of lowering theirs.Oats are one of four key cholesterolbusting foods that have been proven tohelp lower cholesterol levels.

Spokesman Richard Jones said: “Researchshows about half of all heart attacks arecaused by raised cholesterol levels andalthough we all know that high cholesterol

levels are a serious risk factor forcardiovascular disease (strokes and heartattack), the majority of us are unaware thatoats and oatbran well-known, everydayingredients that can help reducecholesterol.

“Our new range of foil packed, ready-to-eat, Oatbran Cereals include Granola,Muesli and Crisp, which provide at least1/3 of the 3g of oat beta glucans shown tolower blood cholesterol.”

The firm is passionate about healthy eatingand is keen to spread the message of theimportance of oatbran in our daily diet.

For more information on productsvisit www.mornflake.com

Firm links with major heart charity

Registered Office: Svenska Handelsbanken AB (publ), 3 Thomas More Square, London, E1W 1WY. VAT Registration No. GB524 9824 25. Registered in England and Wales No. BR 000589. Incorporated in Sweden with limited liability. Registered in Sweden No. 502007-7862. Head Office in Stockholm. Authorised by the Swedish Financial Supervisory Authority (Finansinspektionen) and the Prudential Regulation Authority and subject to limited regulation by the Financial Conduct Authority and Prudential Regulation Authority. Details about the extent of our authorisation and

regulation by the Prudential Regulation Authority, and regulation by the Financial Conduct Authority are available from us on request.

New bank in CreweWe are proud to introduce Crewe’s newest bank, Handelsbanken, which o�ers a unique local, bespoke banking service in the heart of the area.

Founded in 1871, Handelsbanken has become one of the world’s

strongest banks. We entered the market in 1982 and now have over 150

branches, all staffed by experienced bankers from the local area. Our

decentralised approach is the key to our success - each branch is able

to make local decisions and offer a truly bespoke service, designing

individually tailored solutions. We do not have targets and we take a

long-term view, investing time to get to know our customers and being

able to provide a high level of personal service.

If you would like to experience traditional local banking for your personal

or business needs, then we would be delighted to hear from you.

Adrian Smith - Branch Manager

Tel: 07795 831911, email: [email protected]

www.handelsbanken.co.uk/crewe


20

Summer Edition 2013

ADVERTISING

Authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authorityegulated by the Financial Conduct AuthorityAuthorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority


21

www.sccci.co.uk

MEMBERS NEWS

A Chamber member has been one of the first local businessesto back an appeal to support elderly people in their final days.

Phil Wood, managing director of Barringtons CharteredAccountants and insolvency firm BCR, donated proceeds from aquiz night in Nantwich to the new President’s Appeal launchedby St Luke’s Cheshire Hospice.

The appeal, which marks thehospice’s 25th anniversary, aims tofund specialist training for carehome staff and a team of highlyskilled nurses who will take theirexpertise out into the community.

Officials want the growing numbersof frail and elderly people in thecommunity, many of whom havedementia, to experience high levelsof compassion and support as theywould in the hospice.

Appeal coordinator Martha Hine said: “Encouraging local peopleand businesses to support a new appeal, especially in time ofrecession, takes hard work so our heartfelt thanks go to Phil forleading the way.”

Meanwhile the hospice has said a big thank-you to all itsvolunteers who contributed 79,014 hours of time in 2012 – theequivalent of £754,000 at NHS salary scales. They paid tributecalling it a ‘truly remarkable’ service to St Luke’s.

To support the appeal call Martha Hine on 01606 555685 or 07854 011805

Appeal gets off to a good start

Two major local charities have teamed up to stage a newbusiness ladies networking lunch. St Luke’s Hospice and MidCheshire Hospitals Charity are proud to be working inpartnership to bring business women from across Cheshiretogether at Wychwood Park Golf Club in Weston on Friday,September 27.

Taking place from noon to 3pm, you will be greeted with aglass of bubbly or soft drink, followed by a 2 course lunchwith tea/coffee and a talk by Sally Inkster from Diva Dressingon ‘The Art of Dressing for your Business’.

Tickets are £20 which includes lunch, welcome drink andtea/coffee. There will also be a small selection of stalls sellingitems of clothing, jewellery and gifts, as well as a charity raffle.

All proceeds from the event will be split equally between St Luke’s Hospice and Mid Cheshire Hospitals Charity.

To reserve your place, contact Jessica Wilkes-Reading on [email protected] or Laura Bailey [email protected]

Business ladies link upfor lunch

Smiles all round at theCheshire Cat

Restaurant and bar The Cheshire Cat in Nantwich celebrated itsbirthday with a series of events helping to raise funds for The CureParkinsons Trust.

The birthday bash kicked off with a performance from AmyWinehouse tribute artist Rachael Roberts on the Friday, followed bylive music throughout the day on the Saturday. It culminated in afamily fun day on the Sunday with face-painting, stalls and games.Local business KidzKitchen also put on free cookery classes tokeep the children educated and entertained.

More than £1,000 was raised for Parkinsons from raffles, collectionsand entertainment.

Cheshire Cat director Louise Bastow said: “We wanted to celebratea successful year of business and give our loyal customers aweekend of entertainment. The team worked exceptionally hard tomake the event a success and everyone entered in to the spirit ofthe celebrations.”

For a gallery of images visit www.thecatat.com

Martha Hine with Chris Knot(centre) and Phil Wood ofBCR and office dog George

Are you receiving the Chamber e-newsletter?Sent fortnightly to all Chamber Members, the e-newsletter provides the latestinformation about your local business community network and offersmarketing opportunities for your business.

Information• Chamber and Business News & Blogs• Members News & Blogs • Chamber Events (Forthcoming)• Members Events and Training Courses (Forthcoming and on-going)

Promotion• Sponsorship - Your advertising banner promoting your company

and your support of the Chamber• Advertising - Your advertising banner placed in-between the

different section of the newsletter.

Take advantage of the marketing opportunities entitled to you through theChamber membership and reach out to new customers, build your brand,position yourself as a market leader and reinforce your brand to existingcustomers.

Please contact Nadeem Ahmad at the Chamber for more details


22

Summer Edition 2013

MEMBERS NEWS

Diane honoured by WorldSkills UKA WorldSkills UKTeam Enamel waspresented to DianeDavy at a galaevening dinner heldat LoughboroughUniversity.

The presentationswere made jointly byRobbie Grabarz, 2012Olympics High JumpUK Bronze Medallistand his coach andmentor, Fuzz Ahmed.

The coveted enamels are presented to

every young UK WorldSkills competitor aswell as to the WorldSkills UK’s SkillsExperts who train and develop thosecompetitors and who work with theiroverseas counterparts to set, judge andmark the rigorous world-classcompetitions, and to those who havemade a significant contribution toWorldSkills UK over time.

Diane’s role spans more than six years asthe Programme Cluster Lead for the nineEngineering & IT skills in which the UKcompetes at international levels. Thisinvolves co-ordinating the UK’s designatedTraining Manager/Experts as they select,

plan for, train & develop, and pressure testcompetitors (for competition readiness) inthe UK and overseas.

WorldSkills competitions are held in over50 workplace skills for young people withsome 50 or so countries participating.Levels for these young competitors arehigh - comparable to an Olympic level forathletes.

Diane, a partner of Chandler Associates,focuses on coaching and mentoringbusiness people and on supportingselections for board level appointments.

Visit www.chandler-associates.co.uk

Do you have transport problems? Notenough spaces in the car park? Are thereaccess problems getting to your site? Isbusiness travel or the daily commuteaffected by traffic congestion? Do youremployees struggle to easily andconveniently travel to work?

If you answer ‘yes’ to any of thesequestions, there will be a financial impacton your business.

This is where Crewe’s ‘Smarter TravelPartnership’ can offer free help.

Clair Visco, LSTF Business Travel PlanningOfficer with Cheshire East Council, isworking with the Chamber to helpCrewe businesses find ‘smarter ways totravel’ and access practical support andfunding. She will help your businessidentify transport issues and develop atravel plan to help alleviate yourproblems, for example, car-sharing,cycling or walking options.

There are several benefits to tackling yourtransport problems that can include:

• Cost savings from:

• Increased productivity, due to staffnot being delayed in traffic

• Reduced car journeys made by staff

• Fewer business mileage claims

• Improved staff recruitment andretention

• Improved environmental performancefrom lower carbon emissions

• Enhanced corporate reputation

• A healthier workforce, resulting infewer days taken as sick leave

If your business is based in Crewe andyou are interested in further details of thefree support you could receive, pleasecontact Clair Visco, Business TravelPlanning Officer:

Email: [email protected] ortelephone 01270 504 700 ext 23

Join the smarter way to travel

Clair Visco with the new one1ink bus - one ofthe 'smarter ways to travel' around Crewe

Untapped geothermal energy couldrevolutionise Crewe

Cheshire East Council has approved toundertake a feasibility study into thepotential of geothermal energy deepbeneath the ground.

Independent studies show parts of theborough are sitting on more than enough

natural energy supplies to heat everyhome in Cheshire East for centuries tocome.

The natural energy source, used widely inparts of Europe, Japan, America andThailand, is green, clean and cheap and hasbeen found in abundance in Crewefollowing studies by consultants on behalfof the Renewable Energy Association.

Crewe is identified as one of just six sitesacross the whole country which candeliver truly renewable heat and power.

A council cabinet meeting gave the greenlight to exploratory work at Leighton West.

Council leader Michael Jones said: “This

feasibility study will take the first majorsteps towards exploring how we can beginextracting this natural source of energyfrom the earth’s crust and used first by theRomans.

“It will place Cheshire East at the forefrontof renewable energy innovations, simplybecause we have the natural resources toachieve a massive reduction in Co2emissions.”

The Cabinet papers relating togeothermal item can be viewed byvisiting:http://moderngov.cheshireeast.gov.uk/ecminutes/ieListDocuments.aspx?CId=241&MId=4732

Diane Davy wearingher WorldSkills UK

Enamel


23

www.sccci.co.uk

MEMBERS NEWS

Jones Sheridan complete Coast-2-Coast bicycleride for local charity

A team including David Williams and OliverBridgman from Jones Sheridan FinancialConsulting Ltd, based on Crewe BusinessPark, completed a 150-mile charity bicycleride to raise a huge sum - the totalcurrently standing just short of £15,000.

The money raised will be going to TheWingate Centre and The British HeartFoundation. Jones Sheridan havesupported The Wingate Centre, based inNantwich, for a number of years, donatingmoney to the charity from their annual golfday and recently purchasing new uniforms

for staff members. The charity works withchildren and young adults suffering from alllevels of disability or learning difficulties.

David Williams, Jones Sheridan ManagingDirector, said: “It’s fair to say that theCoast-to-Coast ride has taken up the vastmajority of our free time since the start ofthe year and we’re delighted that oureffort has paid off and that we’ll be makinganother healthy donation to The WingateCentre, as well as The British HeartFoundation.”

In their latest fundraising venture for thecentre, the 12-man team drove fromCrewe to Morecambe on the West coast,where they started on the seafront,heading out onto flat ground at about9.45am on Saturday 15th June.

By lunchtime, the team had reached Settle,a town on the edge of the Yorkshire Dales,along the route to their target for theirhalfway stop-off point of Harrogate, wherethey would be spending the Saturday night.

The first challenge for Jones Sheridancame heading out of Settle, where theroad immediately climbs high into theDales, with sections that include 25%

gradients. A bike chain exploded underthe pressure of powering uphill, with bikeand rider having to be ferried back toSettle for repairs in the local bike shop.

After 8 hours in the saddle, the teammade it to Harrogate. In the morning, theybegan their second leg; a planned 70 milesfrom Harrogate to Bridlington, skirtingacross the top of York before heading dueEast to the finishing point, again on thebeachfront.

With the hard toil of the previous day stillfresh in their mind, the riders wereapprehensive leaving Harrogate at 9.00amsharp. Happily, they only had to put upwith a handful of wrong turns (acombination of sat nav error and humanmap reading), with a comparatively easytrip, along much flatter roads.

Late in the afternoon on the Sunday, theteam arrived victorious into Bridlington,reaching the coast and treating themselvesto some well deserved fish, chips andmushy peas!

For more information on JonesSheridan Financial Consulting call 01270 530975

Alex nets support from dealershipBlue Bell BMW and MINI has signed a one-year sponsorship renewal deal with CreweAlexandra Football Club.

The Weston Road dealership’s sponsorshipdeal with the reigning Johnstone’s PaintTrophy champions includes perimeterboard advertising around The AlexandraStadium.

Barry Holt, Dealer Principal at Blue BellBMW Crewe, commented: “We havealways had an excellent relationship withthe Club, which like ourselves, prides itself

on offering impressive performance andcelebrating the very best of local talent.

“Many of our employees and customersare firm supporters so we wish the playingstaff and manager Steve Davis all the verybest for the new League One season.”

For more information about Blue BellBMW Crewe visit the dealership onFourth Avenue, Weston Road, Creweor call 01270 212525

Crewe Alex player Abdul Osman, Blue Bell DealerPrincipal Barry Holt, Alex manager Steve Davis,

Crewe Alexandra’s Business Operations Manager Alison Bowler and Blue Bell

Sales Director Phil Brown

Motorists will enjoy free car parking as partof a new initiative by Cheshire EastCouncil.

Parking on seven car parks across theborough will be free of charge from 3pmeach day.

The council has introduced the changes ina bid to support businesses and encouragemore people to visit their local town orvillage centre – a move welcomed by theSouth Cheshire Chamber.

Earlier this year, the council announcedthat Free after Three would be trialled onthe Whalley Hayes car park, inMacclesfield. Now six more car parks at:Christchurch in Crewe; Snow Hill inNantwich; South Street in Alderley Edge;Back Park Street in Congleton; SpringStreet in Wilmslow and Princess Street inKnutsford will benefit from the scheme.

Cllr David Topping, Cabinet member incharge of the environment, said: “I ampleased to announce this initiative, whichis designed to help our businesses duringwhat I realise are difficult tradingconditions on the high street.”

Free after Three will be reviewed after sixmonths.

‘Free after Three’ parking is underway

Apologies to Jones Sheridan Financial Consulting for the headline ‘Accountants go coast to coast’ in our last edition. The firm is a specialist in financial consulting


24

Summer Edition 2013

ADVERTORIAL

Providing both temporary and permanent recruitment services to companies across Cheshire and Staffordshire

01270 589943 www.kpir.co.uk

Sift surf and selection

We guarantee every time perfection!

KPI found my details on-line. Here I am now…in a permanent position, I’m glad they found me!

Charlotte Kettle - Administrator

“Its nice to feel valued. I am a happy driver and there are not many of us around!!”

Peter Batewood – C+E Driver

“Found me work quickly, paid on time and correctly and I have been taken on permanently. Good agency!”

Craig Cope – Returns Operative

“Really impressed with thier service. KPI have provided me with a regular job I really enjoy.

Alicja Wiczynska – Production Op

Outstanding Recruitment Of Outstanding People

GLA

Sift surf and selectionSift surf and selection


e g


WWe guarantee every time perfection!e guarantee every time perfection!



e guarantee every time perfection!



ing People

KPI found my details on-line. “Its nice to feel valued. I am a KPI found my details on-line. “Found me work quickly“Its nice to feel valued. I am a “Really impressed with thier paid me work quickly y “Really impressed with thier



position, I’m glad they found me!Here I am now…in a permanent KPI found my details on-line.

GLA



many of us around!!” happy driver and there are not “Its nice to feel valued. I am a


position, I’m glad they found me!Here I am now…in a permanent KPI found my details on-line.


agency!”been taken on permanentlyon time and correctly and I have “Found me work quickly


many of us around!!” happy driver and there are not “Its nice to feel valued. I am a

Craig Cope – Returns Operative


01270 589943

with a regular job I really enjoyservice. KPI have provided me

i i

agency!”. Good ken on permanently y. Good

on time and correctly and I have , paid me work quickly y, paid

t:


.co.uk


. with a regular job I really enjoy y. service. KPI have provided me “Really impressed with thier

.kpirr.co.uk wwww: 01270 589943


.co.uk


High 5!

1,692 likes

If you are an employer recruiting or job seeker you can contact KPI Recruiting on 01270 589943.

A D V E R T O R I A L

A D V E R T O R I A L

ahead.look forward to an exciting year and have even more reasons to many ways their 5th anniversary KPI Recruiting are celebrating in

disposal to ensure we have the largest latest recruitment technology is at our line processes and to ensure the very state of the art software to stream

e are investing “W We are investing heavily in new

look forward to an exciting year and have even more reasons to many ways their 5th anniversary KPI Recruiting are celebrating in

High 5!

experienced recruiters and managers team as they look to add further join the rapidly expanding recruitment further opportunities are available to The internal head count has risen and

disposal to ensure we have the largest latest recruitment technology is at our line processes and to ensure the very state of the art software to stream

e are investing heavily in new

High 5!

High 5’

experienced recruiters and managers team as they look to add further join the rapidly expanding recruitment further opportunities are available to The internal head count has risen and

s all round!High 5’

Further rapid growth is expected as

.current year r.aims to achieve £10 million in its increase in its annual turnover and impressive as it has seen a 220% and this year has been particularly in every year since it opened in 2009 KPI has successfully grown its sales

small token of our thanks to all our a £5 bonus this week. “This is a KPI are rewarding every worker with and loyalty of its temporary workers, and in recognition of all the hard work o celebrate its 5t TTo celebrate its 5th year anniversary

recruitment service” Liz Howarthcontinue to receive the most accurate pool of candidates and that clients disposal to ensure we have the largest

Further rapid growth is expected as

aims to achieve £10 million in its increase in its annual turnover and impressive as it has seen a 220% and this year has been particularly in every year since it opened in 2009 KPI has successfully grown its sales

courses in Reach, Counter balance, novice, semi-novice and refresher lift truck training centre offering KPI are now a registered RTITB fork In addition to its recruitment services

at liz@kpirplease contact Liz Howarth, director furthering your career in recruitment to their team. If you are interested in experienced recruiters and managers

small token of our thanks to all our a £5 bonus this week. “This is a KPI are rewarding every worker with and loyalty of its temporary workers, and in recognition of all the hard work o celebrate its 5th year anniversary

recruitment service” Liz Howarthcontinue to receive the most accurate pool of candidates and that clients disposal to ensure we have the largest

courses in Reach, Counter balance, novice, semi-novice and refresher lift truck training centre offering KPI are now a registered RTITB fork In addition to its recruitment services

.co.uk r r.co.ukplease contact Liz Howarth, director furthering your career in recruitment to their team. If you are interested in experienced recruiters and managers

Connect with us:

ragg and Anthony WWAbove:

Connect with us:

bookon FaceKPI Recruiting

alleyagg and Anthony W WalleyRyan Jardine and workers Ewa Above:

rent offices. and Stoke-on-TDeeside, adding to the existing Crewe

ales region from its new WWa now servicing clients in the North KPI celebrate opening its third office,

If you are an employer recruiting or job seeker you can contact KPI Recruiting on

Ryan Jardine, Directorrecruitment business in the area” build our reputation as the best temporary workers who have helped

rent offices. Deeside, adding to the existing Crewe

ales region from its new office in now servicing clients in the North KPI celebrate opening its third office,


qualifications.work force with industry recognized professional training and up-skill their clients and workers can receive additional service means that our VNA and pivot steer trucks. This

Ryan Jardine, Directorrecruitment business in the area” build our reputation as the best temporary workers who have helped


qualifications.work force with industry recognized professional training and up-skill their clients and workers can receive additional service means that our VNA and pivot steer trucks. This

.01270 589943If you are an employer recruiting or job seeker you can contact KPI Recruiting on

1,692 likes

KPI Recruiting


www.sccci.co.uk

South Cheshire CLASP (Christian Link Association for SingleParents), a charity set up to support lone parents in Cheshire,has benefitted from a complete revamp of their web andmarketing materials as well as support with their HR andbusiness structure, all thanks to the SkillShare initiative.

The SkillShare initiative aims to promote local, skilledvolunteering by matching local business people and otherprofessionals who are willing to volunteer their skills withsuitable charities and community groups that require theirservices.

SkillShare successfully connected CLASP with four Crewebased companies; Three29design, a design studio; SG World, acommercial organisation providing health, safety and financialauditing products through software or print; Martin Bale aUtilities Specialist and UK Fuels Ltd who have provided HRsupport and advice. All four companies offered specialistadvice to the charity free of charge.

Three29design helped develop a new website and brand forCLASP. Livia Lucie, company owner commented: “Afterworking for so long with overseas clients who I've never metface to face, it's really nice to be able to help out those in mylocal community. Thanks to SkillShare I was teamed up withSouth Cheshire CLASP to help them as their branding andwebsite. Very often Charities can overlook these points,whether it's down to time, money or just not knowing how.I've loved working on the project and being able to helpCLASP get onto the right track.”

SG World provided marketing and communications advice andsupport and enhanced their social media outlets. SteveFloodgate, the Communications Director, commented: “Wewere very happy to support CLASP as we feel that helpinglocal charities is good for the community. Being a single parentmyself I can also recognise the good work that CLASP do.”

Martin Bale provided money saving advice to the charity.Martin commented: "I really enjoyed the experience and to be

asked to support CLASPin this way. Getting thefinances right is a criticallyimportant and will help build a sustainablecharity for the future.”

UK Fuels ensured the charity was in line with currentemployment legislation and had a suitable HR structure inplace for the charity’s employees.

Julia Brumby, Project Manager of CLASP comments: “We arenow undergoing a complete transformation of ourpromotional literature and are about to take delivery of a newinformation leaflet, which is more professional, in keeping withthe high quality of service that we delivery”

“We are also part way through a new website design and haveset up a Facebook page for parents, which we are very excitedabout.”

“We have also accessed HR training, without cost, from UKFuels and have had our Staff Handbook completelytransformed, which is now in the process of being introducedinto the organisation.

Steve also saved us some time by helping out with a new staffholiday chart – a relatively simple thing, but extremely usefuland effective.”

“We are very good at what we do, but in an increasinglycompetitive third sector, we are aware of the need to becomemore professional and to ensure that our processes andoverall image reflect the high quality of the service we deliver.With the help we have received from SkillShare we have takena big step forward and are now better able to deliver ourcharitable services to local people.”

SkillShare is always looking to expand its supporting network.

SkillShare Helps Cheshire Charity

25SKILLSHARE

Any Cheshire business interested in offering their time and expertise to support theSkillShare initiative, or any local voluntary and community group who would benefit fromskilled support should contact the South Cheshire Chamber of Commerce directly orregister your interest at http://www.cheshireskillshare.org.uk/

Karen comments:

“I would like to say a massive thank you to all of the fantasticpeople that I’ve had the opportunity to meet throughCheshire SkillShare. The whole experience has been trulyrewarding and this could only have happened with thecontinued support that I’ve been fortunate to receive fromsome extremely generous business people. Many, manythanks to you all once again”.

Cheshire SkillShare is still going from strength tostrength so if you are reading this and would like tocontribute some of your time, please contact the SouthCheshire Chamber of Commerce directly or registeryour interest at http://www.cheshireskillshare.org.uk/

Karen Brady and Gareth Williams say goodbye as theirsecondment to Cheshire SkillShare comes to an end


26

Summer Edition 2013

ADVERTISING

@StapeleyHouse


27

www.sccci.co.uk

NETWORKING

Business confidence in the UK is at itshighest level since 2007 on buoyant exportdemand, indicating the economic recoveryis gaining momentum.

The British Chamber of Commercequarterly economic survey reportedbusiness confidence improved further andis stronger than the average levels seenduring the recession.

Expectations for an improvement in salesrose by 7 points to 51% in themanufacturing sector while the servicesector reported a 6 point rise to 46%.This is further proof that British productsand the British workforce are held in highesteem throughout the world, and weshould capitalise on this by embracinginternational trade.

Any business looking to export theirproducts internationally need look nofurther than the South Cheshire Chamberfor assistance. If international trade issomething that you are interested in butare unsure of the next steps then pleasecontact Jon Barnes on 01270 504700 ex 21or [email protected]

Now is the perfect time to enquire as we

are currently promoting, in conjunctionwith UKTI, the Passport to Export service.This service is designed specifically for newor inexperienced exporters and offers ahelping hand through the maze of theglobal market place over a 12 monthstructured programme of support. Theservices includes:

• A yearlong package of training, strategicplanning and financial support

• Matched funding of up to £3,000 (VAT not reclaimable) for export relatedcosts such as marketing, marketresearch, translation and staffdevelopment

• A market selection service to assessthe potential of your products

• Expert planning workshops to helpshape your strategy and a selection ofmaster classes on key topics

• Plus more

Thriving export market aids recovery

Jon Barnes – International Trade Advisor at the South Cheshire Chamber

If you would like to know more about Passport to Export and any of the other export services we offer, such as theExport Club meetings, then please contact Jon Barnes on 01270 504700 ext 21 or [email protected]


Preserve and protect.

REASSURING LEGAL ADVICE. NATURALLY.

Separation & Divorce • Property & Conveyancing • Motoring Offences • Power of Attorney • Wills & Probate

01782 205 000

www.beswicks.com

When you need heavyweight legal advice to help protect your interests, we provide all the support you need in good times, in bad times, in fact at any time.

Buying a new home, getting married or starting a family are significant events, often with legal implications.

We will help protect your interests and can help to ensure your family is provided for in the event anything should happen to you.

If things take a turn for the worse, we are there for you too, providing legal advice on the loss of a loved one, relationship breakdown or even the threat of losing your driving licence.


29

www.sccci.co.uk

CHAMBER NEWS

a

Property & Conveyancing • Motoring Offences • Power of Attorney • Wills & Probate

Nearly 2,000 people of all ages flocked to theCrewe and Nantwich Jobs Fair organised by MPEdward Timpson in conjunction with the SouthCheshire Chamber, Crewe Alexandra and TheChronicle.

The event proved even more successful than lastyear with hundreds queuing outside waiting forthe doors to open at Crewe Alexandra’s ground.

Chamber Chief Executive Paul Colman said: “TheJobs Fair has become an important date on thecalendar for anyone looking for a job and forprospective employers to tap into a wealth oftalent in South Cheshire.

“There were many opportunities available to thejob-hunters who flocked to the stadium, againevidence of South Cheshire’s vibrant economy.

“It was also good to see a great number ofChamber members taking part, demonstratingtheir growth and success by offering jobs.”

Chamber Patrons represented included BentleyMotors, South Cheshire College, ReaseheathCollege, MMU, Wulvern and Mornflake.

The MP said the jobs fair gave people the allimportant advantage of being able to meetemployers face-to-face rather than just sendingin CVs. He said: “It was great to see so many ofthe businesses who exhibited last year comingback and we had more jobs on offer than lastyear.”

It was an event for companies of all sizes, fromthose looking to recruit a handful of staff to bigfirms like the rapidly expanding Expert Logisticsin Crewe which had 150 jobs up for grabs.

Edward Timpson MP and the Chamber havepromised a third event next year.

Pictures by Pure PR

Event proves just the job attracting thousandsMP teams up with Chamber to stage major event

MP Edward Timpson and Chamber Chief Executive Paul Colman at the launch

of Jobs Fair 2013

The Reaseheath College stand was kept busy with enquiries

Chamber Patrons Bentley receiving enquiries aboutwork at the luxury car factory

Recruitment specialist KPI of Crewe gaveinformation on job opportunities in thecommercial and industrial sectors

Crewe Alexandra was inundated with job-seekersthroughout the day

Chamber Chief Executive Paul Colman, MornflakeManaging Director John Lea, MP Edward Timpson andMornflake Marketing Manager Richard Jones - the standgave information on the packing and driving jobs at the

Crewe breakfast foods firm

Liz Southall and Elena Arena of Redshift Community Radio

Chris Bentley and Martin Stone of SouthCheshire College offered bags of supportto would-be students and apprentices

Abbi Ferati and Claire Fiddeman of ManchesterMetropolitan University offered information on courses

available at the Crewe campus

Estelle Pearson and Melissa Clutton of ExpertLogistics in Crewe where 150 jobs will be up forgrabs in September thanks to company expansion

Edward Timpson cuts a Jobs Fair cakedonated by Chatwins and distributedamongst business representatives

manning the stands

Chamber member Ken Lawton of Alpha OmegaSecurities with Chamber business loans executiveRichard Weilding and Chief Executive Paul Colman


30

Summer Edition 2013

CHAMBER NEWS

Chamber builds International links

South Cheshire Chamber has recentlytaken part in a visit to Darmstadt to look atways in which German Chambers ofCommerce engage with their Educationsector.

Paul Colman, Chief Executive and JohnDunning, Chairman of the Chamber werepart of a delegation which included SouthCheshire College, Cheshire East Counciland the Petty Pool College which wasfunded by the Comenius Regio Trans-European Knowledge Transfer fund.

The visit included a meeting with theMayor of Dieburg, a visit to a localapprenticeship college and a discussionwith the Darmstadt council about helpingyoung people into work.

Chamber Chief Executive Paul Colmancommented “Our Chamber works closelywith all educational establishments in SouthCheshire and this visit provided an insightinto the relationship between businessesand the educational sector in Germany.

Delegates were able to identify bestpractice and discuss new ways of improvingthe links between the business communityand education.”

Over 100 people are going ‘Back to the Future’ thanks to aunique partnership between Crewe-based affordable housingprovider Wulvern and the National Sales Academy.

The budding recruits signed up to the free accredited workbased learning programme named Back to the Future at it’sofficial launch at Edward Timpson’s Jobs Fair. The 10 dayprogramme in business administration, sales and customersservice offers candidates improved future career prospects,access to new skills and help finding a rewarding new career,plus the chance to fast track learning new skills from Level 2(GCSE equivalent) up to University level at no cost tothemselves.

The programme will be delivered at Wulvern’s head office onElectra Way by experienced industry professionals, who willsupport candidates to get the necessary skills and confidenceto succeed in an exciting new career - and it guarantees aninterview for real job vacancies at the end of it.

Back to the future

National Sales Academy founder Heather Carter with Edward Timpson MPand Wulvern’s Marketing and Partnerships Business Partner Ceris Esplentogether with members of the Back to the Future recruitment team

The delegation visit the Darmstadt-Dieburgparliamentary office

Chamber Chairman John Dunning (centre) andChief Executive Paul Colman meet an apprenticemaster tutor at the local apprenticeship college

South Cheshire builds on population growth

Population growth is key to SouthCheshire’s prosperity, Chamber chairmanJohn Dunning told the organisation’sannual dinner.

Housing developments, he said, injectedlife into a flagging economy – providedthey did not clash with existing businesses

and were supported by a quality roadsystem.

Mr Dunning said: “The past 12 months hasbeen dominated by a stream ofconsultations on future planning policy,core development strategies andcontroversial planning applications. Havingfully consulted its members, the Chamberhas been able to submit a substantive andconsidered response to all proposalsaffecting the local economy.

“We fully support some of the newhousing proposals in the Council’s CoreStrategy – some of them – not all.

“New homes are needed but to beeffective they have to be built on the rightscale and in the right place. They have tohave the right mix so they improve thesocio-economic balance and do notconflict with existing businesses.

“Such a strategy of house-building andpopulation growth will be controversial inthe short term but we have to look at thebigger picture and long-term benefits.”

Housing growth in Crewe over the pastfew decades in areas like Leighton, Sydneyand Coppenhall had helped trigger majordevelopments such as the MMU,Shavington bypass, Crewe Business Park,Crewe Gates Industrial Estate and GrandJunction Retail Park.

And he pointed to the example ofNantwich where housing development inrecent years had driven economic activity.

He added: “There have been some veryencouraging statistics indicating early signsof economic recovery. South Cheshire hastremendous potential and the Chamberfully supports the growth agenda.”

South Cheshire Chamber chairman John Dunningspeaking at the annual dinner


31

www.sccci.co.uk

CHAMBER NEWS

Despite controversy, HS2 is very much ontrack and set to bring massive benefits toCrewe.

That was the message from project bossAlison Munroe speaking before a largegathering of business people at the SouthCheshire Chamber’s Annual Dinner atCrewe Hall who hosted and sponsored theDinner showcasing their excellentbanqueting facilities.

The HS2 Chief Executive said Crewe waswell placed to benefit from the 50,000 jobsthe high speed link would create inconstruction, rolling stock manufacture andstation operations.

Although slammed by protestors for its £32billion cost and environmental impact, shesaid the super-fast route was ‘definitelygoing ahead’ and remained vital to thecountry’s future economic growth.

“One of the main reasons for HS2 iscapacity,” she said. “Over the last 15 years

the number of people using the railway hasdoubled. Even in the recession there hasbeen a 5% per annum growth and by themiddle of the next decade the railways willbe full.

“The West Coast is particularly fragile. Aswell as carrying a huge number ofpassengers, it is one of our busiest freightcorridors and if we don’t have that capacitywe face a break in economic growth.”

HS2 will connect the West Coast Main Lineat Crewe, allowing high speed rail servicesto run on to Liverpool and passengers tochange for services to Chester and NorthWales. A journey time from Crewe toLondon will be sliced to 52 minutes.

The improved connectivity, she said, wouldmake Crewe a more attractive place toinvest and do business. And taking intercity services off the existing railway, wouldfree it up for more local services andfreight movement.

She also confirmed plans for aninfrastructure maintenance depot to thesouth of Crewe giving a major jobs boost.“Crewe is well placed. With Bentley andBombardier it has a lot of the skills herealready and we want to make sure youbenefit.”

Chamber Chief Executive Paul Colmansaid: “HS2 may be a long way off but it hasalready had huge impact on Crewe bymaking everyone stand up and take noticeof its huge economic potential andexcellent connectivity.”

Work on the first phase - London toBirmingham - is due to start 2017 and becompleted by 2026. The northern phase,covering Crewe, will not be in operationuntil 2032.

A Government consultation is underwayand roadshows will be staged through theautumn.

NEWS RELEASE: “HS2 is going ahead” - says high speed rail boss

High speed rail is heading to Crewe -Chief Executive, Alison Munroe addresses the Annual Dinner

MP Edward Timpson and wife Julia with Paul Colman at the Annual Dinner

More than 100 people attended the Annual Dinner- here guests gather at the drinks reception

Crewe Hall General Manager Mart Louwerse, Chamber Chief Executive Paul Colman,HS2 Chief Executive Alison Munroe and Chamber Chairman John Dunning

Many thanks to CreweHall for hosting andsponsoring the AnnualDinner

Pictures by i2i • Words by Pure PR


But the economic picture is still mixed. The Chancellor isconsidering splitting RBS in to a badbank and a better bank. ThePrudential Regulation Authority hasordered British banks to find £13Bnto strengthen their balance sheets;that means more reserves and lesslending, unless shareholders fancyplugging the gap. Despite the

government’s efforts to advance funds so banks can lend, theregulator is pushing the lid of the treasure chest tightly shut.

But there are some signs of growth amongst the rubble from therecession. Mortgage advances are rising, inflation is moderating,the erosion of household incomes is easing. Businessopportunities are appearing. But what branches will grow out ofthis stony rubbish?

Low interest rates means there’s been a flood of cash seekingbetter returns. Money is out there, looking for opportunities.There’s plenty of secondary lenders in the market, looking for adecent return on their money.

For the big boys there’s the bond market, securitisation of cashflow, venture capital; but what’s available to the SME sector locally?

We can put you in touch with

• Factors - full external credit control on long term deals• Invoice discounters, including ‘Spot’ discounters - as little

as one invoice, as a one off with no long contracts• Asset based lenders against stock plant, machinery

or equipment• Import financers to bridge the gap between purchase and sale• Business buyers seeking a new opportunity or expansion of an

existing enterprise• Angel investors - looking to place funds short term, either with

or without an ongoing involvement with your business

Cash flow problems can be driven by a variety of causes. If thebusiness is fundamentally insolvent, borrowing more may be apoor choice; a restructure, prepack or liquidation may be better.But if the business is sound with a short term problem - a baddebt, an existing funder wanting an exit, a need for cash to buystock or assets, or even a big VAT bill driven by better sales, lookingfor funding may be the answer.

If you’d like to have a confidential, no obligation discussionabout the options available to you and your business,please contact Simon Atkins on 01270 212700

32

Summer Edition 2013

ADVERTORIAL

The World of Insolvency always looks better in the summer.Long evenings, warm days, optimism on every corner . . .

We help businesses take the necessary steps to financial recovery

First we need to release the critical pressure created by a lack of solvency and cash and protect the business from court action, recovery agents, and creditor pressure.

Receivership, Liquidation and Bankruptcy are not the only options. Some form of future for the business can often be worked out.

Business and Personal Insolvency

Refinancing Retirement Options Informal Deals Administration Orders Company Voluntary Arrangement - CVA

Compulsory Winding Up - CWU Dissolution Debt Management Plan Individual Voluntary Arrangement - IVA

Bankruptcy

Call Us: 0845 680 0315 or email: [email protected]

Mackenzie GoldbergJohnson Limited

y

g Up - CWU

Compulsory Winding Up - CWU




Plan

y Arrangement


oluntary Arrangement


33

www.sccci.co.uk

CHAMBER NEWS

Companies join forces to support business OscarsSome of the area’s most high-profilebusinesses have thrown their weight behindthe South Cheshire Chamber’s annualshowcase for entrepreneurial talent.

The Chamber’s Business Awards take placeat Crewe Hall on November 22 andbacking it are a range of major employersand industry leaders.

Cheshire East Council is sponsoring theBest Start Up Business category,

Martin & Co, Best Small Business, RBSCorporate Banking South Cheshire, BestLarge Business, KPI Recruiting, YoungBusiness Person of the Year, Jones SheridanFinancial Consulting, Excellence inCustomer Service, MMU Cheshire,Employer of the Year, Bentley Motors,Exporter of the Year,

A new category, Health and WellBeing, issponsored by CTC while the Contributionto the Community award is backed byCheshire Skillshare.

Sponsors were welcomed to a pre-awardsmeeting at Crewe Hall by Chamber ChiefExecutive Paul Colman. He said: “Theevening is a celebration of all that is greatand good about the South Cheshirebusiness community. Success carriesconsiderable prestige and offers excellentpublicity opportunities thanks to supportfrom our media partners at the Chronicle.

“Generous support from our sponsors hasallowed us to continue the awards over 16years and make it one of the most talkedabout nights on the business socialcalendar.”

The awards offer a fantasticopportunity to raise the profile of yourbusiness. For details on how to enteror tickets for the evening please callMadeleine Abbey at the Chamber on01270 504700.

Chamber Chief Executive Paul Colman and businessaward sponsors Cllr Peter Groves, Cheshire East

Council, Shaun Cafferty, Martin&Co, Steve Jackson andGault Picken, RBS, Liz Howarth, KPI Recruiting, SusanDickson, Sales Director, Crewe Hall Hotel, DaveWilliams, Jones Sheridan, Sarah McGovern, CTC,

Jacqueline McLean, MMU Cheshire and Donna O’Kell,Cheshire Skillshare are welcomed to Crewe Hall

by General Manager Mart Louwerse.Picture supplied by Pure PR

Polo enthusiasts saddle up for cupThe final for the Orion Engineering LtdTrophy took place on June 23 betweenHair Raisers and Palmer Polo at CheshirePolo Club - watched by friends, family andcustomers.

Winners of the Trophy were Hair Raisers.The semi finalists played for the OrionEngineering Ltd Plate, the winners beingChester Polo.

Also watched was the final for Topspec

Feeds Demtriadi Cup. Thankfully the rainheld off and everybody had an excellentafternoon’s sport. Thanks to Cheshire PoloClub for their warm hospitality.

For hand carved trophies, artwork,rocking horses and their restoration,contact Jennifer Gater on07795627384.

Photograph by Bellatrix Photography andFilm Ltd.

Show and business reception draw bumper crowdSunshine brought an excellent crowd to aBusiness Reception staged on the eve of theNantwich Show.

Rocketing temperatures throughout July createdperfect ground conditions, putting the show andreception firmly back on the social calendar again.

More than 200 Chamber members and civicdignitaries were welcomed to the Cheshire Eaststand in the garden area of the Cheese Pavilionwhere they enjoyed an informal networkingevening hosted by the Chamber in associationwith Cheshire East Council and NantwichAgricultural Society.

Despite rain on the day of the show, huge crowdswere welcomed to Dorfold Park where they wereentertained by dare-devil quad bike stunts anddisplays by celebrity chefs as well as a hugenumber of stands and the International CheeseShow.

From exporting and golf to annual lunch and business awards - there aremany dates for your diary. See page 5 or call Chamber Events and Marketing Executive MadeleineAbbey on 01270 504700

The Chamber would like to thank our members Astrum Design & Print for printing the invites, Chocyholics of Nantwich for their amazing Belgianchocolates and Pure PR for photography. Our thanks also to Joseph Heler and Delamere Dairy for the delicious cheese on offer.


34

Spring Edition 2013

ADVERTISING

Need a loan? The Chamber can help . . .Recent calls for errant Bankers to be jailed has raised a few eye browsas the premise here is that there has been a complete lack of personalresponsibility with individual misdemeanours cloaked under thecorporate blanket.

In an incentive driven world we cannot be too surprised at what hashappened albeit as an ex-banker I do remain staggered at the LIBORfixing scandal which for me blows away a large chunk of credibility foranyone in the industry - past or present.

Accountability is a dangerous area. Where do we draw the line?

Like most people I remain crestfallen whenever I think back top thosefateful penalty shoot outs at previous international footballtournaments. However no one is suggesting that following England’sexit, we should have slammed Messrs Pierce, Waddle, Southgate andBatty behind bars for having failed their country.

A jail term may well have been more appropriate for their part in thedodgy pizza advert involving Messrs Pierce, Waddle and Southgate thatfollowed Euro 96.

Some would say that the impact of England’s tournament exits was fargreater than anything to do with LIBOR.

The difference however is clear. The LIBOR fixing scandal was drivenby greed and on the back of an arrogant wave of invincibility.

In business, owner managers face dailychallenges to themselves regarding theiraccountability to a whole range of peopleincluding staff, customers, suppliers and notleast of all their families.

We should not shy away from thisresponsibility for fear of repercussions beingdraconian nor should we dive headlong intoventures where other people may sufferthrough lack of prudence.

We remain open at the Chamber to help fundbusiness growth and would encourage all owner managers to workwith their advisors to ensure that they have a balanced view of theirplans.

I am also available to join in the process but should the current waveof recrimination extend its reach in the months ahead then don’texpect me to be on the gang plank with you. There is only so much flakand ex-banker can take!

For further information contact Richard Weilding at the Chamber on 01270 504700 or email [email protected]

Business Loans ExecutiveRichard Weilding


New Generation

New Generation

Drayton

New Generation

Drayton GroupMercedes-Benz of Stoke Cobridge Road, Hanley, Stoke-on-Trent ST1 5JP 01782 461 264 www.draytongroup.co.uk

edecerM

we NzenB-sN

ration

GenerraNew

erfferfff Orr Oa Cww CGener

.serN

ration

GenerraNew

raDrayayton rD

notayr

Neration

GenerraNew

Drayton

tsnemyaplyhtnMo 0.933£

ecird paoe rhn tO 56,43£

tiospderemotusC 574,4£

t isoper deliateRntiouibrtnoc 004,3£

e a tgnarrr ae orout md ono fiTTo fi

00 itsoepdaltoT ,18£

00.556 stnemyaf pr oebmuN 36

09.5 tenmyapehascruplonaitpO 61£

00.00 tiderf ct onuomA 62£

461 262 4871ll 0ae cvirt dsee a t

09.54,1 elbayat pnuoml aatoT 7,3£

eefnceatpcceA 18£

0.0509,6 ntiovaticaesachruP 95£

01.194,6 etat rseretnd iexiF 6.14

%7.e 4vitatneserpeR RPA

4

09.4757,

00.018

00.95

%6

oup

gin foitpmusnol ceut fnemnrevol gaiciffO3 (.47-)62.14 (2.n 2abra urtx, e)4.5(32.5

r aes peli0 m00,0t 1P aCr Paen a 3 yd oesae brs anoitatouQsecx. Eytilibaliavo at tcejbbju, s3102.90.0e 3rofed beretsiger

w Ge, NssalC-n Aoitarenew Ge, Nnoolas SsalC-n EoitareneG4 me 2rs asalC-KLd Sné apuoS CLe Chr tos felpmaxe ecnaniF

wohs segaml iedo. MAB5 81K, MdtK Ls Uecivrel SaicnaniF

on GrytaDreoktcedes-Benz of SMer

e-on-okt, Syoad, Hanlee RidgCobr4 1 26782 4610 ongyta.drwww

T1 5JP

ree Mhr to) fmk00r 1es pertilg (pn ms ierug2 eO. C)4.4(2.46-)9.51(8.7d 1enibmo, c)8.33 (

us melcihed vnl aavorppo at tcejbbjue srs anoitatoul ql. Amunnr ae dcnawollt aisoper delaef dt onuom. Aylpps aegrahe cgaelis ms, Cnoolas SsalC-, Cépuos CsalC-, Cetatss EsalC-n Eoitarenew Ge acnatpecce aho tt tcejbbjue srs aelpmaxe ecnanl fil. Ashtno4 m. Gsutato st tcejbue scnani. Fylns oesoprun poitartsnomer don f

ent SrTe-on-oup.co.ukrong

-)7.12(0.3n 1abr: uegnaz rneB-sedecr.mk/5 g11-87: 3snoissim2 e

dn3 a102.60.0d 3n3 a102.40.1n 0eewted beredre ot bswee Nhr tos felpmaxe ecnani. Fledon mt onadnepee d

.shtno6 me 3ro awtrot framd sns asalC-, Metatss EsalC-, CzneB-sedecrem More flbaliave acnani. Fseee fsahcrud pne a

.deriuqee ry bas meitinmednd ins aeetnarau. G


Blue Bell CorporateBMW – Fourth Avenue, Weston Road, Crewe, Cheshire CW1 6XH Tel: 01270 212525 www.bluebellgroup.co.uk

MINI – Gateway, Crewe, Cheshire CW1 6YY Tel: 01270 214800 www.bluebellgroup.co.uk

Blue Bell.Get to know us.

Official fuel economy figures for the BMW & MINI range: Urban: 14.6-67.3mpg (19.3-4.2l/100km). Extra Urban: 26.2-80.7mpg(10.8-3.5l/100km). Combined: 20.3-74.3mpg (13.9-3.8l/100km). CO2 emissions 325-99g/km.

Benefits include:

• Competitive contract hire rates

• Complimentary 12 month RegusGold Card Business CentreMembership

• Dedicated Local Business Manager

• Attractive company car tax ratesthanks to low-CO2 models

• BMW and MINI Dealer customer service

• Low running costs thanks to BMWEfficientDynamics and MINIMINIMALISM

• The full range of BMW and MINIvehicles is available

BMW |MINI Business PartnershipYOUR COMPANY BENEFITS.

Whatever model of vehicle you choose through the BMW & MINI Business Partnership, you’ll find more space,

comfort and power, yet fuel efficiency and CO2 emissions that remain class-leading. The new BMW 3 Series

Gran Turismo for example with its flowing lines, sleek surfaces and sporty exterior disguise the luxurious levels

of comfort and space that lie within.

Delivering the dynamic handling and powerful performance you’d expect from The Ultimate Driving Machine, it also offers a level of practicality and versatility that defies expectation.

For more information on any Business Partnership BMW contact Bernard Rooney on 01270 212525 or for information on any Business Partnership MINI contact Michael Sayward on 01270 214800.


Date post:	12-Mar-2016
Category:	Documents
Upload:	south-cheshire-chamber
View:	234 times
Download:	3 times