THE INDEPENDENT MAGAZINE FOR DORSET, WEST HANTS AND ... · King, in Bournemouth, as Business Development Manager. Instrumental Lady Nova Man Tim Morgan has recently been appointed

No. 135 SEPTEMBER 2009 Established 1994

BUSINESSTH

E

THE INDEPENDENT MAGAZINE FOR DORSET, WEST HANTS AND SALISBURY

NEWS VIEWS EVENTS FEATURES ADVIcE NEWS

Opinions expressed within this publication are those of the contributors and not necessarily of the publisher. Every effort is made to ensure the accuracy of the contents of The Business, but legal responsibility cannot be accepted for errors, omissions or misleading statements. The Business is fully protected by copyright. Nothing contained within this magazine may be reprinted or reproduced in whole or in part without the written permission of the publisher.

© The Business (Dorset) Ltd 2009All rights reserved ISSN 1354-3806

Editor: Gill Bevis

Tel: 01425471500Fax:01425475600

E-mail: [email protected] Website: www.bizmag.co.uk

Published by The Business (Dorset) Ltd

9 Gainsborough Road, Ashley Heath, Ringwood BH24 2HY

The Business magazine is mailed free-of-charge to named business people within Dorset, West Hampshire and South Wiltshire. Recipients are occasionally contacted to maintain correct mailing details and to provide information regarding special features. Contact us if you would like to receive the magazine or have your name removed from the mailing list on 01425 471500.

Contents

On the FrontPhotograph courtesy of Andy Cope and Peter McKinley, Photographic Technician Demonstrators, the Arts University College at Bournemouth.

ForthefullstoryseeEducationatWorkpage29.

people on the move

2 peopleonthemove

4 businessnews

13 finance - What Happens to Unfit Directors?

15 special feature - Mobile Matters

18 lawlines - Blogging Minefield

20 new business focus - Good Reasons to Start a Business Now

22 women talk - Q & A with Tracie Beardsley

25 education at work - New B U Executive Business Centre

30 eatingout

33 techno times - Online Trading Webinar

34 transportnews

39 southampton boat show - Discounted Tickets

40 network news - Events and Business Clubs

42 property & development - Grounds for Optimism

44 manufacturing&engineering

45 salisbury & downton - South Wiltshire Business Expo

www.realpeoplehr.com • Tel: 0845 094 6242

...for down to earth solutions when you have PEOPLE ON THE MOVE

Digital, strategic & creative communications.

+44 (0)1202 853000 [email protected]

Websites from £750 / Monthly marketing support from £90 per month / Free 1 hour consultation

CLIENT: POOLE AUDIwww.pooleaudi.com

Mail your leaflet with this

magazinefor

£250 + VAT(A4 Flyer)

Based on a physical weight of 10 grammes or less.

Other prices/weights available on request.

Call01425 471500

or [email protected]

In the Name of CharityLocal socialite, Eleanor Jane Storey is changing her middle name by deed poll and the proceeds are going to Breast Cancer Care.It costs just £1 per suggestion, and local companies are invited to make a donation of £50 if they wish to submit their company name. Eleanor commented, ‘Because of my surname, I’ve had several amusing suggestions such as Eleanor Multi Storey, Eleanor Telmia Storey and Eleanor Bedtime Storey to name a few!’Visit www.justgiving.com/eleanorsnewname to add your suggestions alongside creative ones such as ‘Jackanory’, ‘Blair’ and ‘Neverending’.

Janet Peacock has joined insolvency practitioners Griffin & King, in Bournemouth, as Business Development Manager.

Instrumental Lady

Nova Man

Tim Morgan has recently been appointed Business Development Manager at Nova Contract Cleaners based in Winton, Bournemouth.

High Flyer

The Remarkable Group has been joined by new Director Michelle Hamilton.

Dawn Wilson, Director of Bournemouth-based HR Products, has been awarded with The Chartered Fellowship by The Chartered Institute for Personnel and Development.

Professional Award

On Board

John Clough has been appointed to the board of Enhanced as Technical Director.

Private Move

Ellis Jones Solicitors has strengthened the private client department at its Canford Cliffs office. Paul Naser, head of the firm’s private client department, is now based at the Haven Road office. Previously he was at the law firm’s Ringwood office.

Thoroughbred PR

L-r: Abigail Perry, Beth Morgan and Sara Hudston

Award-winning public relations consultancy Watershed has opened a specialist equestrian division. New recruit Beth Morgan, who recently joined Watershed as a Senior Director, is leading the initiative.

Head for RecoveryTenon Recovery has announced that Mark Sands will join the Group as National Head of Bankruptcy. Mark was previously at KPMG where he was responsible for setting up its first specialist personal insolvency team.

Are you looking to buy or sell a business?

TSL Business salesspecialise in the sale of owner-managed

businesses in Dorset

CONFIDENTIALITY • TRUSTPROFESSIONALISM • RESULTS

For a free no obligation, confidential meeting and valuation, contact:

TSL Business sales

Freephone 0800 0555 6063or 01305 783662

James Prince has been appointed Branch Manager to head up John Lewis at home in Poole which is due to open during October creating 100 new jobs.

Prince of Poole

Firm Partnership

Frettens Solicitors has announced that Kate Fretten has been promoted to Partner.

Franchise ExpansionFocus on You has appointed Christine Etheridge to run the Southampton city central franchise, as far as Hythe and Lyndhurst.

Intergage RecruitsExpanding digital agency Intergage has taken on Corrie White to boost its team of web marketing experts.

Colourful FutureFirst Cover Decorating has welcomed Ryan Seymour as an apprentice painter and decorator.

Rob Lands on His FeetRob Beldham has joined Westover Toyota as Business Centre Manager, responsible for fleet sales and servicing for both the Bournemouth and Salisbury dealerships.

� BusinessThe September 2009 �BusinessThe2009 September

With officials reporting that we could see 100,000 cases of swine flu per day by the end of August, Business Link is urging local firms to ensure that they have effective contingency plans in place.

While the disease has turned out to be

less dangerous than first feared, the sheer number of people who could be infected by influenza A H1N1 could have a significant impact on local firms.

Business Link has identified three priority areas for business: Safeguardingbusinesscontinuity is the first priority, ensuring that

contingency plans are made to counter the threat of people going off sick who are critical to operations.

Counteringpotentialsupplierdisruption is another key issue. Even if a firm has a clear and strong contingency plan in place, if a key supplier is affected and deliveries are cut, operations could be badly impacted.

Lookingafteremployeewelfare is a further responsibility for firms. As good employers, they will want to ensure that they are in a position to best safeguard their staff.

Business Link is highlighting the following information sites: b Download detailed guidance for employers in the workplace from

the Department of Health website. Visit www.hpa.org.uk/web/HPAwebFile/HPAweb_C/1241246622785b E-mail the official government swine flu leaflet to all your employees. Visit www.nhs.uk/news/2009/04April/Documents/

Swine%20Flu%20Leaflet_Web%20Version.pdf Business Link is looking to provide local employers with up-to-date

information on good business practice during the swine flu pandemic. Further information is available on Business Link’s dedicated website.

Visit www.businesslink.gov.uk/southwest/swineflu

business news

sponsored by:

The Secret of Success is not to be a SecretTel 01202 874079 • [email protected]

WPR Wordcaster Public Relations Business News

Downing Street ReceptionPrime Minister, Gordon Brown has paid tribute to members of the Reserve Forces and employers from across the south west, thanking them for the valuable contribution they have made and continue to make to the UK’s Armed Forces.

Representing the region at a Downing Street reception was Sergeant Brian Parsons

of 6 Rifles who works for Coles Miller Solicitors LLP based in Poole. He was accompanied to the reception by his employer, Adrian Cormack, a Partner at the firm, who encouraged and supported him during mobilisations to Iraq in 2004 and Afghanistan in 2008.

Adrian Cormack and Brian Parsons meet Gordon Brown

Is Your Business Prepared for Swine Flu?

business news

Places available for September 2009. To find out more, visit: www.bournemouth.ac.uk/tailoredor call: 01202 961916.

1 year full-time or 2 years part-time.Choose from several industry specialisms:

Consultancy

Financial Services

Global BusinessOperations

Media

Public & Community

Tourism

TheBournemouthMBA

Signs of Life in Job MarketThe recent REC/KPMG Report on Jobs shows that permanent jobs placements continued to decline, although the picture is brighter for temporary and contract work where the rate of contraction eased to the slowest in 10 months. Commenting on the latest outlook for jobs in the region, Clive Hutchings, REC Regional Director for the South East said, ‘Conditions in the labour market are still very tough and a number of companies are still looking to reduce their headcounts. However, for the first time in a while, local employers are suggesting that they will take on more staff towards the end of the year when they expect business will pick up.’

The Business ExitNew research commissioned by Coutts & Co, reveals that although 46% of entrepreneurs believe that selling their business will take less than one year, the reality is that it actually takes up to two. The report: The Long Goodbye: Myths, realities and insights into the business exit process, examines for the first time the challenges and concerns business owner’s face during their preparation for and throughout the business exit process.

The 20 page report contains case studies, interviews and analysis from entrepreneurs in a variety of industries, both pre and post exit.

Visit www.coutts.com/entrepreneurs

Quay Secures Marine Engineering LeaderA south west-based leader in marine engineering has signed an agreement to build new premises at Osprey Quay on Portland enabling

the business to grow, potentially creating up to 20 new jobs.

Specialised Technologies Group Ltd, which is currently located in Weymouth, has agreed terms with the South West Regional Development Agency (RDA) to build 25,000sq ft of commercial engineering and office space.

The company has been working with South West RDA and Weymouth & Portland Borough Council for some time and detailed plans for the new facilities have already been approved by the Borough Council. Construction is due to begin in September and completed by Christmas 2010. The South West RDA bought Osprey Quay, a former Royal Navy Air Station, in 2000 and is investing around £40m to create a centre for marine business and leisure activity.

The private-sector investment in this new workspace is worth more than £3m. Once completed, the company, which currently employs 19 full-time members of staff, aims to create up to 20 new jobs.

John Ray from the South West RDA and Mark Roberts from STG Ltd

A Matter of TrustThe importance that we place on trust has risen during the current economic crisis, according to a poll commissioned by specialist home insurer, Hiscox.

2,000 people were surveyed about their attitudes to trust, and 36% of them revealed that the importance they place on people’s trustworthiness has increased in today’s financial climate.

79% of Britons say they value people who can keep their word, Although we value trust, many people don’t actually trust each other, as 60% expect those around them to break their word.

Keith Callaway, head of High Net Worth Property and Motor Insurance at Alan & Thomas explained, ‘The trust of our clients is of paramount importance to us. To build a successful long term relationship with each of our policyholders, we listen carefully to their individual needs, as often their time is short. Our pro-active approach can take away the hassle associated with managing their insurance portfolio. We carefully select our partner insurers so that their products reinforce our brand values and takes account of our client’s lifestyle.’

Alan & Thomas is a local regional independent insurance broker. For more information, contact Keith Callaway on 01202 652999.

L-r: Nela Cooper, High Net Worth Account Handler with Keith Callaway


2009 Clean-Up for Century GroupSpecialist cleaning company, the Century Group, is proving that even in tough times there is money to be made if you are prepared to work hard.

2009 has already brought good results for the company and seen the introduction of two new services, refuge collections and gutter cleaning. The service with the biggest increase in units over the year has been the sanitary bin rentals. Quality and reliability of services are quoted as the main reasons for its continued success.

For more information visit www.centurygroup.co.uk

Garden Centre Scoops Top Regional AwardsStaff at the Haskins Garden Centre at Longham have been celebrating their success following an award ceremony hosted at Biggin Hill by the South Thames division of the Garden Centres Association. Out of 36 garden centres in the region, Haskins General Manager Terry Head and his team scooped the top awards for Best Garden Centre and Best Restaurant. They also returned with 13 other best of category awards including best catering, indoor and outdoor living, bedding and houseplant, and best garden centre staff. The group’s centres near Crawley, Worthing and Southampton also received merit awards.

Terry Head (third left) with horticultural and catering teams.

business news

StevenBeaumontfromBournemouthaccountancy

firm taylorcocks, offers somesoundadviceto

helpkeepontopofyourfinances and ensure that your cash flow does not

dryout.

• Review your overheads, consider ways to cut utility costs and get rid of any unnecessary expenses. Make sure that you are getting the best deal from your suppliers - shop around and negotiate better prices and longer credit terms where you can.

• Be completely up to speed with your outstanding balances and know when you will receive payment. Have strict procedures in place for chasing debts and ensure someone is chasing the bill the moment it becomes overdue. Don’t put off issuing credit notes as it will only slow up the process of cash collection.

• Be sure to conduct a credit control review at least once a week and consider when to put customers on stop.

• Prepare cash flow forecasts and budgets. These don’t have to be intricate to be effective but the important thing is that you have an idea and expectation of the coming months. Timely, regular and accurate management information will then help to monitor the actual results against your budgets and forecasts so you can seize the opportunities when they arise and identify any problems much sooner.

Ifyouwouldlikeprofessionalhelpand

guidanceinmanagingyourcash flow, please contact

[email protected],

on03707708111orvisitwww.theaccountants.co.uk

Cleaning Divisionl Office Cleaningl Window Cleaningl Carpet Cleaningl Car Park Cleaningl Student Flat Cleaning

Property & Rubbish Clearancel House Clearancesl Fly Tipped Waste Collectionl Electrical Itemsl Pre-Demolition Clearancesl Commercial, Industrial or Domesticl Regular or one off servicel Skip Hire

Environmental Cleaningl Graffiti Removall Pigeon Removall Pigeon Nettingl Pest Controll Industrial Deep Cleansl Steam Cleaningl De-Greasingl Needles Searches

Recyclingl Confidential Wastel Paper & Cardboardl Bottles & Cansl Plasticl Electrical Goodsl Hire of storage binsl Certificate of Destruction suppliedl Regular or one off services available

Gardening & Ground Worksl Lawn Cutting & Turfingl Flower Bed Maintenancel Weed Killingl Leaf Collectionl Landscape Design Servicel Tree & Hedge Pruningl Regular or One Off Service

Property Maintenancel Painting & Decoratingl Plumbing & Electricall Carpentryl Roof Repairsl Handyman Servicel Light Bulb Replacementl Boiler Servicingl PAT Testing

Fire Alarm Testing & Trainingl Weekly Alarm Testingl 6 Monthly Evacuationsl Fire Alarm Servicingl Fire Training Courses

Hygiene Servicesl Sanitary Disposal Unitsl Nappy Disposal Unitsl Medical Waste Unitsl Sharps Boxesl Washroom Equipmentl Dust Control Mats

Call 01202 299950 for a free site inspection and quotation or [email protected] our new web page at www.centurygroup.co.uk

£1m Funding to Support Displaced Apprentices

ConstructionSkills, the UK’s Sector Skills Council for construction, has announced that it has successfully secured £1m of funding from the National Apprenticeship Service which will help support construction companies in the south west that take on apprentices who have been laid-off during the recession.

Companies that are able to provide suitable apprenticeship employment to these displaced apprentices, who are close to the end of their framework, and support them to complete their training will be eligible to apply for financial support of up to £1,000. For employers who are registered with CITB-ConstructionSkills, this comes on top of the funding which may be available through the grant scheme. Funding is available for those in the last 12 months of their apprenticeship.

For further information visit www.cskills.org

Celebration

Myriad HR has recently celebrated its fifth anniversary. The flexible HR solutions provider, with a variety of products and packages designed to make employment easy for Dorset businesses, has seen a steady increase in demand from clients this year.

Kay Williams, Managing Director of Myriad HR says that; ‘the dynamic and approachable nature at Myriad HR has ensured that our clients always know where they stand with us.’

SafecontractorUltra-Clean Blinds has recently joined Safecontractor, an accreditation scheme that assesses the health & safety competency of contractors and service providers. As Ultra-Clean Blinds has won larger contracts, with a wider range of clients nationwide, the need for a structured approach to health and safety has become apparent. Membership of the Safecontractor scheme gives clients and potential clients reassurance that any work undertaken by Ultra-Clean Blinds, be it the supply and installation of brand new blinds, or refurbishment of existing blinds, will be completed with health and safety in mind.

Steve Hall of Ultra-Clean says, ‘We regularly carry out risk assessments for our larger projects but the Safecontractor scheme demonstrates our commitment to safe work practices for all of our customers.’

Kay Williams

Frontline Work for AJADorset design company AJA Design has been working with AmSafe Bridport to promote a new tank armour system that is being used by troops on the frontline in Afghanistan.

Arnold Jones Associates Design (AJA Design) from Dorchester produced a promotional film presenting Tarian, a system developed by the MoD and AmSafe Bridport. Tarian is designed to protect armoured vehicles against rocket-propelled grenades.

AJA Design Managing Director, Lisa Rossiter, explained, ‘We needed to show the full physical capabilities and benefits of Tarian. The beauty of the new armour is its ability across all terrains. It is a creative and exciting movie using a variety of cinematic effects.’

The film was so good it was recently shown on BBC Spotlight South West as part of a feature about troops in Afghanistan.

Neal McKeever, Director and General Manager of Defence for AmSafe Bridport, said, ‘We have worked closely with AJA Design before on defence movies and they are very astute at providing a product that meets our objectives – both in terms of creative execution and budget.’

The movie is one of eight that AJA Design has made in the last few months.

‘We love making promotional films and it’s a good addition to the web-based and print design work that we supply,’ Rossiter added.

business news


business news business news

Murphy’s Law and Parkinson’s Law have both contributed to an Olympics Law which says that the bigger a thing becomes, the more problems it attracts and the sooner it hastens its own demise.Norman Harris, The Observer, 1984

www.brianjenner.com

FabFrocksofWestbourne has sealed a deal to bring Italian designer Pia Michi to its portfolio.

Everysmallbusiness in the UK now has free access to thousands of lower value government contracts.Visit www.supply2.gov.uk

homebusinessnetwork.co.uk is a free resource for all home workers. It’s a place to find business, access the knowledge of experts and learn from other home workers.

BournemouthAirportrecently launched a 16 week public consultation on its draft plans to manage the impact of aircraft noise, and review the measures currently in place.

BusinessLinkandTourismSouthEasthave produced a guide for business owners in the hospitality and tourism sector. For a free copy call 0845 600 9006.

Figuresreleasedrecently show that the government’s vehicle scrappage scheme has been a real success, with orders reaching 154,927.

PooleBayFreighthas committed to a major investment in a new fleet of vans.

Chocolate maker, HouseofDorchester, is celebrating after winning three golds at the world renowned Great Taste Awards.

JobServe Live! Southampton, supported by British Gas, will be taking place at The Guildhall on 1st October.

romandesignprintCall or email for a quote today: 01202 424222 e: [email protected]

www.romandesignprint.com

You’ll be pleasantly surprised how little great design and print

can cost!

1975Recession - inflation soared to 25%, unemployment rose to over 3 million.1992Recession - mass unemployment and high inflation returned once again.2008Recession - economy shrinks by almost 3%, mass business closures and high unemployment.

We’ve seen it all before – with over 80 years trading, the company even experienced the post World War II recession!

Through the application of sensible pricing structures for design and print, The Roman Group has seen year on year business increase even through these tough economical times. ‘Unlike some design companies, we are not charging high fees or conversely “buying business” like some printers

The Roman Group Has Seen It All Before!

who are submitting quotes below cost,’ said Group Creative Director, Doug Saunders. ‘Our pricing for both design and/or print is extremely competitive and clients are getting real value for money in all departments.’ This has resulted in The Roman Group employing additional staff as opposed to redundancies, additional equipment in the print finishing department instead of selling off plant and a healthy order book in the studio rather than our designers just twiddling their thumbs!

To discover just how competitive the Roman Group is, call Paul Axford on 01202 424222.

Bird & Pest SolutionsA father from Dorset has been named a finalist in the annual British Franchise Association’s (bfa)/HSBC Franchisee of the Year Awards, sponsored by HSBC Bank and Express Newspapers.

Tim Lester, who launched a franchise specialising in humane pest control, is now hoping to scoop the top title and a cheque for £5,000, courtesy of HSBC Commercial Bank.

The winner will be announced at a black-tie dinner at the International Convention Centre in Birmingham, on 1st October. Cheques for £3,000 and £2,000 will also be presented to the silver and bronze winners respectively.

Tim was one of NBC Bird and Pest Solution’s first franchisees, taking on the Portsmouth, Bournemouth and Southampton area in February 2004.

L-r: Euan Fraser, AMO Consulting; Shelley Nadler, Field Fisher Waterhouse LLP; Cathryn Hayes, HSBC; Karen Lester; Tim Lester, NBC Bird and Pest Solution; Geraldine Haenow, Express; Bernard Ingham, BFA; Brian Smart, BFA

Call to Follow President Obama A new survey shows that, despite the current economic downturn, sustainable energy businesses are continuing to grow at a dramatic rate, with average increases in turnover of 86% over the past 12 months.

The ‘Economic Contribution of the Renewable Energy and Energy Efficiency Sectors in the South West of England’ survey, commissioned by south west sustainable energy agency Regen SW, found that the 100 interviewed businesses have created 600 new jobs. Their total turnover has risen from £108m to £200m, employment has grown by 40% and turnover per employee has grown from £71,000 to £95,000.

‘This is a fiercely competitive sector worldwide and if we don’t match the support offered by President Obama and others we will lose out in the race to lead the shift to a low carbon economy,’ said Merlin Hyman, Regen SW’s Chief Executive. ‘Programmes such as ‘South West Bioheat’, run by Regen SW on behalf of South West RDA, are delivering renewable energy on the ground and stimulating new markets for south west entrepreneurs and businesses – we need to build on these models of what works.’

Merlin Hyman

NationalExpress has named Excelsior Coaches as its ‘coach operator of the year’ for consistently high levels of customer satisfaction and operational performance throughout 2008.

30%ofsouthwestworkers have had their pay cut since the recession began. 23% have experienced a reduction in hours and 24% have lost benefits, according to a recent survey of over 1,600 workers by the Keep Britain Working campaign.

ADorsetorganicsrecyclingfirm is flying high after supplying 10,000 sq m of turf to Bournemouth Airport. It’s the largest amount of turf ordered from Eco Sustainable Solutions for a single job.

Newresearch from focused SME lender, Bank of Cyprus UK, indicates that 64% of SMEs in the south never see their bank manager from one year to the next.

Summer 2010 FlightsThomson Holidays and First Choice have announced that they will be increasing capacity from Bournemouth Airport next year. From May 2010 they will base a 189-seat Boeing 737-800 aircraft at the airport which has 25% more seats than their existing aircraft.

To coincide with the arrival of this new aircraft, they will be adding five new destinations to their route map: Antalya and Bodrum in Turkey, Corfu, Tunisia and the increasingly popular Egyptian Red Sea resort of Sharm el Sheikh. The flights to Turkey will also provide holiday makers with the opportunity to link up with one of the Thomson ships cruising around the Eastern Mediterranean.

In addition to the new routes, Thomson and First Choice will also be operating to Malaga, Ibiza, Majorca, Paphos, Rhodes, Dalaman and Tenerife next summer.

Safetrac MovesSafetrac Solutions Ltd has recently moved to new, larger premises at 27 Cobham Road, Ferndown Industrial Estate, Wimborne BH21 7PE. For information on a range of vehicle, asset and marine tracking as well as lone worker protection products call 01202 868728.


The deadline for submissions to the Daily Echo-backed Dorset Business Awards is fast approaching, with judging set to take place in October. Award hopefuls have less than a few weeks to enter this year’s awards and companies across the county are being urged to ensure they get their entries in for the 15th annual showcase by Friday 18th September.

The awards aim to recognise the outstanding skills, achievements and innovations of Dorset’s successful businesses. All entries will be evaluated against the criteria for each category. The categories open for entry are:b Creative Company/Project of the Year Award,

sponsored by The Arts University College at Bournemouth and Liz Lean PR

b Dorset Charity of the Year Award, sponsored by Sunseeker International b Dorset Exporter of the Year Award, sponsored by UK Trade and Investment - NEWb Entrepreneur of the Year Award, sponsored by Bournemouth University b KPMG Company of the Year Awardb Linking with Schools Award, sponsored by The Borough of Poole and Bournemouth Borough Council b NatWest Excellence in Customer Service Awardb Princecroft Willis Family Business Award b Team Dorset 2012 Legacy Award, sponsored by Dorset County Council b The Dorset Tourism Award, sponsored by Dorset Business (the Chamber of Commerce & Industry) and P H Warr Plc – NEW

The finalists, three for each category, will be named in November with the winners announced at a gala dinner at the Lighthouse Poole on Friday 11th December. The chosen charities for Dorset Charity of the Year Award, sponsored by Sunseeker International, will be invited to present their entry to the audience at the

business news

Once I was doing a sponsored walk. In the end I managed to raise so much money, I could afford a taxi.Jimmy Carr, 1972- , Comedian

www.brianjenner.com

TheLabourParty will be hosting its annual conference at the Bournemouth International Centre and Pavilion in 2013.

LodersMotorGroupis now representing Skoda in Dorchester at the newly redeveloped ‘Whitehouse’ site on London Road.

AgeConcernandHelptheAged is calling on people to get their hiking boots on and experience the challenge of a lifetime with the Charity’s Trek China 2010 fundraising event. Visit www.helptheaged.org.uk/events

SwedishbankHandelsbanken, which has a branch in Bournemouth, has reported increased half-year profits. Operating profit for the six months to 30th June rose by 14% to 7,251 million Swedish kroner (£596m) while profit after tax was SEK 5,294 million (£436m).

Independentretailers are reporting an increase in the level of shoplifting, break-ins, credit-card fraud and staff theft as a result of the ongoing economic crisis. New research by online insurance comparator simplybusiness.co.uk shows that theft by staff has also escalated, with 24% of retailers suffering a rise in ‘in-house’ crime.

HopeFMCommunityRadio has made the stations recording facilities available for hire. Contact Station Manager Kevin Potter at [email protected]

DickinsonManser has been awarded a founder membership of an exclusive nationwide alliance of high quality solicitor firms, QualitySolicitors.com

Firms Urged to Move Fast as Business Awards Deadline Looms

Awards’ Dinner who will then vote live on the night for an award winner.

Peter Scott, Chief Executive at Dorset Business (Chamber of Commerce and Industry), says it is more important than ever that the region shouts about its outstanding successes as it shows that Dorset really means business. He adds, ‘The Dorset Business Awards showcase the outstanding talent, diversity and strength of enterprise in Dorset. I would like to urge as many companies as possible to get involved in this fantastic event.’

Non-Members of the Chamber are also encouraged to enter. Individual award categories are judged by key business people from across Dorset who are chosen by the Award Sponsor(s).

Entrants can submit an entry via www.dorsetbusinessawards.co.uk or print-off an entry form and submit a paper-based entry. For further information about the awards, or to purchase tickets for the Gala Dinner, contact Shirley Ewart on 01202 714812.

The Dorset Business Awards 2009 Gala Dinner

This year’s winners will be announced at the prestigious Dorset Business Awards Gala Dinner to be held in

the Concert Hall of The Lighthouse, Poole at 7pm on Friday 11th December 2009.

Tickets CostDorset Business Members £75 plus VAT

Non Members £85 plus VAT

Table of 10Dorset Business Members £700 plus VAT


Interested in purchasing a table or tickets?E-mail [email protected] or

telephone 01202 714812 to reserve your place.

For further information or to enter on-line log on to www.dorsetbusinessawards.co.ukor contact Shirley Ewart on 01202 714812

printsolutions.co.u k

TheMinsterPr ess

Launch sponsor:

CHAR TERED A CCOUNT ANTSAND BUSINESS AD VISERS

MORRIS LANE

Design sponsor:












TheMinsterPr ess

Launch sponsor:


MORRIS LANE

Design sponsor:

Reasons to Enter• Booststaffmorale

• Impresspotentialinvestors

• Gainprestigeandrecognitionfrompeers

• Networkwithfellowentrepreneurs

• Raiseyourprofile

• Invaluablepresscoverage

• Acknowledgetheachievementsofyourstaff

• Increaserespectfromexistingcustomers

• Helpattracthighqualitynewstaff

• Increaseyourbusinessgrowth

10












TheMinsterPr ess

Launch sponsor:


MORRIS LANE

Design sponsor:












TheMinsterPr ess

Launch sponsor:


MORRIS LANE

Design sponsor:












TheMinsterPr ess

Launch sponsor:


MORRIS LANE

Design sponsor:

Tickets cost: Dorset Business Members £75 +VAT Non Members £85 +VAT

Table of 10: Dorset Business Members £700 +VAT Non Members £800 +VAT












TheMinsterPr ess

Launch sponsor:


MORRIS LANE

Design sponsor:

Enter the Awards via www.dorsetbusinessawards.co.uk by 18th September!

For further details about the Awards or to purchase tickets for the Gala Dinner please contact Shirley Ewart 01202 714812

ONE FOR YOU!FOR EVERY 9 DELEGATES, GET THE 10TH FREE. We’re different from the others. Discover our new comprehensive Day Delegate Package from £29.00 per person or 24 hour Delegate Package from £129.00 per person.

Our new Day Delegate Package includes… - Complimentary LCD-projector, screen and 1 flipchart - All day tea and coffee - Mid-Morning and Afternoon refreshment break with accompaniments - Mineral water and sweets - Highcliff Style Buffet Lunch (3 courses) plus freshly brewed tea/coffee - Dedicated Marriott meeting host on hand to ensure success - Marriott Rewards® Points

Alternatively, take advantage of our Room Hire Packages from £50.00 for half day.

Call us on 01202 557702 and quote ‘ONE4U’ or visit BournemouthHighcliffMarriott.co.uk

Bournemouth Highcliff Marriott Hotel St Michael s Road, Bournemouth BH2 5DU

T. 01202 200 800 | F. 01202 293 155

© Marriott International 2009. Subject to availability. Minimum of 8 delegates. Event must be held by 31st December 2009. Terms & Conditions apply.

‘Live the Highcliff Style’

business news

Markit South West PMI

Onwards and UpwardsGreendale, one of the few construction companies expanding rather than shrinking during the current economic crisis, has moved into new premises in Branksome, Poole.

Thanks to two new staff appointments, the need for additional office space for the existing team and several new and on going projects, including a £200,000 school extension in Weymouth as well as school projects in Corfe Mullen and Bournemouth, and work for Bournemouth and Poole councils, the Poole-based firm has outgrown its original premises in Lower Parkstone and moved to the new offices in Branksome.

Through Sibbett Gregory, Greendale has purchased Unit 6 Old Generator House on Bourne Valley Road in Poole which is part of a substantial Victorian generator building.

The Palms Ride into PooleQuality, excellence and achievement in Poole are once again on the agenda when Poole’s annual tourism awards ‘The Palms 2009’ return to celebrate and showcase businesses that have had a significant impact on the town’s tourism industry.

On Thursday 1st October, hytes restaurant, Harbour Heights will host a special luncheon to learn who has scooped this year’s awards.

The Palms, organised by Poole Tourism and sponsored by local commercial property agents, surveyors and town planners Sibbett Gregory is now in its seventh year.

The south west economy continued to expand in July, as the PMI® signalled a third successive month of private sector activity growth within the region. New order levels increased robustly, with output rising markedly to accommodate the volume of new orders. However, economic recovery was still in its early stages, with job cuts remaining heavy. Spare capacity persisted in the region, as backlogs continued to be depleted, and companies were forced to offer price discounts to stimulate demand. The headline seasonally adjusted Business

Activity Index, which measures the combined output of the region’s manufacturing and service sectors, posted 56.8 in July, from 53.8 in June.

Growth of new business continued in the south west during July, extending the period of sustained expansion to three months. Moreover, the rate at which new orders increased was higher than in the wider UK economy, and was only outpaced by two other regions. Growth was stronger in the service sector, with some firms attributing the rise to improved client confidence.

10 BusinessThe September 2009 11BusinessThe2009 September

finance

Nice Work and They Got It!It’s nice work if you can get it – and the Poole and Southampton offices of Mazars certainly have.

The international accountancy and business advisory firm has been appointed to look after NICE CTI Systems, based in Hedge End. This UK subsidiary of an Israeli parent company is the leading provider of insight from interactions solutions - this includes telephone, web, radio and video communications to 24,000 customers worldwide.

They offer a range of hardware and software that provides analytical information for operations such as call centres and for security systems. NICE’s products and solutions are used by over 85 of the Fortune 100 companies in 30,000 sites including contact centres, financial institutions, public safety sites, ATC (air traffic control) sites, CCTV (closed circuit television) security installations and government markets.

L-r: Mike Attenborough-Cox, Mazars; John Malins, NICE and Brian Hutchinson, Mazars

Unfit Directors? What happens? Stay on Track Don’t Go For DerailmentTim Corfield from Insolvency Practitioners Griffin & King explains.When a company enters an insolvency process, the conduct of directors in office will be reported to the Insolvency Service. Unfit directors can be disqualified for up to 15 years.

Based on the conduct report the Secretary of State has to decide whether or not to seek a disqualification order. This can be decided by the court, or a director can give a disqualification undertaking without having to go to court.

Examples of conduct which may lead to disqualification include; b Wrongful trading b Preferencesb Tax evasion b Payment of dividends. The number of disqualifications is increasing and

can be costly to defend. Directors must take their responsibilities seriously. If in doubt, consult a professional.

For further information contact Tim Corfield or Janet Peacock on 01202 355348.

Tim Corfield and Janet Peacock

“ To exert a

stimulating

and bene cial

effect”

inspireC h a r t e r e d T a x A d v i s e r s & C h a r t e r e d

C e r t i f i e d A c c o u n t a n t s

Here at Inspire, we strive to exert a “stimulatingand benefi cial effect” on our clients’ businesses; after all, that’s what inspire means.

We do this by providing innovative services such as fi xed-fee compliance, fi nancial director on demand, proactive tax advice and outsourced fi nance functions.

If you run an entrepreneurial, owner-managed company which needs more support from your accountants, whether it’s on special projects or ongoing fi nancial reporting and tax advice, we would love to talk to you.

Call us now on 0800 077 6410 to fi nd out how Inspire can help your business.

37 Commercial Road Poole Dorset BH14 0HUT: 0800 077 6410 F: 0800 077 6411

E: [email protected]: www.inspire.uk.net

Is the Worst Yet to Come?The recent personal insolvency figures show that they are at their highest levels since records began. Tenon Recovery, the leading personal insolvency turnaround, restructuring and recovery specialist, believes that the figures mask the fact that the worst is yet to come and expect the figure to reach 140,000 or more by the end of the year.

RDA has a proven track record of helping businesses to succeed

add the missing piece to your business

• Quality Management• Environment Management• Business Continuity• Health & Safety• General Management & Business Planning• Staff Development & IIP• Marketing, PR & Web Design

Call 01202 546439 today for an informal chatVisit www.rdaconsultancy.com

Consultancy Firm Celebrates 15 Years of Success

The RDA team, l-r: Di Darch,Graham Colebeck, Faith Foote, Rod Darch, Anne Delaney and John Skinner

Competition Winner Arabella Lewis-Smith is the lucky winner of Enhanced’s competition, recently published in The Business magazine.Arabella, Director of Salad Creative, Poole was delighted to hear that she had won a fashionable top of the range IBM Lenovo NetBook.

L-r: Sarah Pollard, Enhanced presenting Arabella-Lewis Smith with her prize.

Since 1993 Rod Darch Associates (RDA) has been instrumental in the success and growth of a wide range of businesses, using an extensive range of skills and experience to ensure that clients have achieved their goals. By helping other businesses to improve, they have built up a strong company and now it is their turn to celebrate 15 years of successful trading.

Rod Darch founded the company. Utilising his previous executive and managerial positions as a solid base from which to advise his first clients he was able to streamline their business progression and growth. As the years progressed and RDA became synonymous with success Rod began to expand his team. The company is now a five strong group, each with a wide range of skills and specialist areas.

Throughout their 15 years RDA has seen the world of business change, causing company priorities to shift and grow. Keeping on top of all new procedures, registrations and legislation has made them invaluable to their clients. As a result they now specialise in many fields including general management, business planning, quality and environmental management, health and safety management, staff development, training and public relations.

As customers have become more interested in the impact companies they use have on the environment, RDA has been working in partnership with most of their long term clients to minimise their environmental impact and reduce costs. Precision Disc Castings Ltd of Poole, made it to the final three in last year’s Dorset Business ‘Environmental Excellence’ Award and in 2006 RDA worked in partnership with Euro Office Equipment Ltd, to help them win the prestigious award.

As the company embarks on its sixteenth year it is looking towards the future. Said Rod Darch, ‘We have become one of the south’s leading management consultancies; our growth having been achieved almost entirely by recommendation. We are extremely proud of our Company and look forward to many more successful years with our existing and future clients.’

business news

PULSE Healthcare Opens in BournemouthPULSE, a leading provider of healthcare staffing solutions, has recently opened its latest branch in Bournemouth.

PULSE places health and social care professionals in temporary and permanent jobs, world-wide. The new Bournemouth branch will initially provide nursing and care workers to both local NHS and private

healthcare providers, but is set to expand across Dorset, Hampshire and Wiltshire creating new jobs across the region.

Caron Smith, Branch Manager for PULSE Bournemouth comments, ‘People generally think that nursing is hospital-based, and whilst we certainly supply nursing professionals into these type of roles, we are finding that an increasing number of people in Bournemouth

also require care in residential homes and in the community. With a high demand for these services in this area, there are many wide ranging opportunities for qualified nurses and care workers seeking employment. We would encourage anyone who is looking for extra shifts to boost income and experience or, who is considering a change in direction to contact us.’

To find out more call 01202 296836.

L-r: Caron Smith Manager, Vikki Holland Nurse/Recruiter and Rachel Wood Consultant

1� BusinessThe September 2009 1�BusinessThe2009 September

Bournemouth-Based Firm Catapults into Accountancy Top 100 ListFast growing Bournemouth based accountants and business advisers, Taylorcocks, has entered the prestigious Top 100 list of UK accountancy firms.

The league table, produced by the industry’s leading publication Accountancy Age, places accountancy firms in order of fee income. Taylorcocks makes its debut on the list ranking at number 83 out of more than 15,000 organisations in the UK.

The news comes on the back of a hugely successful year for the firm which has reported double digit growth. The rise of Taylorcocks is even more impressive when compared to many of the UK’s leading accountancy firms, as results from the league table show that 39 of the top 50 organisations have experienced slow or negative growth in the last year. In contrast Taylorcocks continues to buck the trend with one of the highest growth percentages of any UK accountancy firm in 2009.

Taylorcocks was set up in 1996 by Managing Director Ian Cocks and has grown organically during the past 13 years, earning the company a reputation as one of the country’s fast track rising stars.

Ian Cocks said, ‘We are delighted to have entered the Accountancy Age Top 100 league table. It is a great achievement for us and I have little doubt that the business will continue to grow and prosper. Undoubtedly, our success is largely due to the fantastic team we have and our one hundred percent commitment to our clients.’

Despite the current recession, Taylorcocks has secured over 100 new clients since the start of the year and is enjoying one of its most successful periods of growth since it was established in 1996.

For further information call Taylorcocks on 0370 770 8111.

B U S I N E S S A D V I S E R S A N D A C C O U N T A N T S

MazarsLLPofferacomprehensivebusinessadvisory

andaccountancyservice.Pleasecontact01202680777

formoreinformation.

finance

New Family Business Director Hailed as ‘Real Coup’

L-r: Adrian Simpson with Mark Aitchison

Adrian Simpson has joined Princecroft Willis (PcW) as Family Business Director based at its New Forest office.

Previously a Partner with an international firm of accountants, his appointment was hailed as a ‘real coup’ by Mark Aitchison, PcW’s new Managing Partner.

There are indications that some businesses are seeing

increased interest from customers and finding it easier

to obtain finance, compared to six months ago. Craig

MacLean, Principal in the Business Recovery Group at

Mazars gives top tips on

RidingtheRecessionTHEWAYAHEAD

The recession should have caused most businesses to look radically at how they are running – to protect or generate revenue and to save or generate cash.

WEIGHUPTHERISKSDesperate t imes ca l l fo r desperate measures. A recent survey of owner managers apparently reported that 33% of respondents would take out personal loans to fund their business; 10% would use a credit card to fund business; and 20% approach family or friends for business finance - up from 10% last year! Whilst in some ways this is commendable, they are putting their money where their mouths are, and unless they are clear about what they are doing and why, it could be a very high risk strategy to follow.

STAYFLEXIBLEA business must stay flexible. It must try to ensure the following three factors. Have as many costs variable rather than fixed; keep reviewing costs and reduce and control them; make regular quality time to consider where the business is heading and what specific risks it faces.

STAYONTASKFinally, when business does pick up, keep planning and controlling. I have seen as many businesses go under because of overtrading as from lack of business.

Ian Cocks

HMRC Warns of ‘Real Risk’ from Scam E-mailsCriminal gangs are targeting taxpayers with thousands of scam e-mails offering bogus tax refunds. The online attacks, known as ‘phishing’, peaked during July leading to increased reports of fraud to HM Revenue & Customs.

The scams tell the recipient they are due a tax refund and ask for bank or credit card details so that the fictitious tax refund can be paid out. HMRC is warning customers about the possible dangers of falling for this scam during this phase of increased attacks on UK residents.

All customers who provide their details to the fraudsters run a real risk of their accounts being emptied and credit cards used to their limit. The victim also risks having their personal details sold-on to other organised criminal gangs.

Lesley Strathie, HMRC Chief Executive said, ‘We only ever contact customers who are due a refund in writing by post. We never use e-mails, telephone calls or external companies in these circumstances. I would strongly encourage anyone receiving such an e-mail to immediately send it to us for investigation and delete it from their computer.’

Forward suspicious e-mail to HMRC at [email protected]

Bank Lending on the UpAccording to recent figures released by the BBA, the voice of banking and financial services, lending to small businesses rose by £391m in June, whilst almost 50,000 new small business banking relationships were established. Deposits from small business grew by £577m.

Creative CashflowAlmost a third of SME owner managers in the South East, equivalent to 223,000 businesses, would take out a personal loan to fund their business according to Close Invoice Finance, part of the FTSE 250 merchant banking group, Close Brothers Group Plc.

The latest research also shows nearly one in ten (7%) of SME’s also admitted in desperate times they would use a credit card to fund their business.

Today’s shifting economic and technological landscape is moving the work force away from a traditionally static model and towards a ‘virtual workforce’, in which workers are distributed across organisational and geographic boundaries. We can no longer think of the workforce as simply permanent employees working at one office or location; instead workers of various roles, place and function are doing their part to drive business at branch offices, from home, on the road, between enterprises and beyond.

All businesses are independently owned and operated. BT, BT &Connected World logo, are trademarks of British Telecommunicationsplc used under licence (by the licensee).

Poseidon Telecommunication Services LtdGround Floor, 17 Cobham RoadFerndown Industrial Estate, Wimborne Dorset BH21 7PE

email: [email protected]

www.bt.com/btlocalbusiness

Call now on:

01202 868 869

• Call packages & line solutions

• Telephone systems

• Data solutions

• Internet & eBusiness solutions

• Mobile solutions

Offering the entireBT portfolio:

BT Local Businessrepresented by Poseidon Telecommunication Services Ltd

cheap calls from Mobiles

This virtual workforce promises great rewards in terms of increased efficiency, competitive advantage and lowered costs - both for IT and business. However, to deliver on this promise, organisations must find ways to securely meet workers’ needs and fulfil corporate data security and compliance policy without adding complexity.

IT provider Blue Chip offers a portfolio of products and solutions to aid organisations move to a ‘virtual workforce’:

QDoyouneedaccesstoyouroffice desktop

and related data files to work efficiently, but don’t need to be in the office? SORTED.

ACitrix Delivery Centre from Blue Chip offers businesses a way to

operate IT more efficiently and flexibly; Citrix separates virtual ‘images’ of applications, desktop and server components from the

actual machine and stores them, and all associated data, back at the data centre under the control of the IT department. This means that workers can access up to date information securely from any location, network and device, while the data never leaves the data centre.

QDoyoumissthepersonalfeelandsubsequent

benefits of face-to-face communicationwithyourcolleaguesandcustomerswhenyouareworkingaway? SORTED.

ACisco WebEx is a web conferencing and collaboration solution

from Blue Chip that can cut costs, increase productivity and eliminate travel time – while helping the environment. Furthermore, it offers an added dimension to teleconferences, enabling you to put ‘name to faces’ and increase rapport.

A major advantage of Cisco WebEx is that it requires no significant upfront costs, no servers to maintain and no software to install or support. All you need is a browser and internet access!

QDo you call, e-mail, sendaninstantmessageandSTILL

notmakecontactwiththepeople you need? SORTED.

AOffice Communicator (OCS) is the new unified communications

platform from Microsoft that

takes productivity to new levels, regardless of location. Staff can arrange audio and video conferences at the click of a mouse; collaborate on projects more effectively; locate staff easily for quick decisions and run conferences from any location.

OCS integrates e-mail, calendars, phone calls, voicemail, and instant messaging services so you can select the best possible way to contact someone – first time!

If you would like further information or a free ‘Mobile Matters’ consultation with Blue Chip, call 0845 034 74000.

Next year the majority of UK phone calls will be made from mobiles* yet unlike calls from BT fixed line phones there has never been Lowest-Cost Routing (LCR) for mobile users; until now!

GoCUCKOO!© claims to be the UK’s first genuine Low Cost Call service for mobiles. Even in-contract mobiles can use it. Call a UK (01/02/03) number from a mobile and you’ll pay between 5p-20p per minute, but with GoCUCKOO!© you’ll pay less

than 2p per minute. 0800 is free and for holidaymakers roaming is guaranteed to be free for life.

GoCUCKOO!© is from Wimborne-based REMEDi. Director, Andrew Holford, told The Business, ‘This is a global untapped market and our trials have shown GoCUCKOO!© can easily cut mobile call costs by 70%.’

There is no contract period or monthly rental.

Visit www.gocuckoo.net*Source: OFCOM


Grapevine Motor Ahead with New Business

Local mobile working specialists Grapevine has continued to move against the economic downturn by winning the contract tender for the Mon Motors Group. The Vodafone Premier Partner secured the business against stiff competition that included a direct mobile network as the incumbent supplier.

The Mon Motors Group has a wide profile with dealerships and support organisations across the south west and Wales. Grapevine’s local presence and proactive customer service were key factors right from the outset. This continued after the completion of the deal with Grapevine’s smooth management of the transfer from the Group’s previous network over to Vodafone and successful implementation of new equipment, including the latest mobile e-mail devices.

As Grapevine’s Business Development Manager Paul Lappage explains, this is a classic case of a local business benefiting from a supplier in their area. Paul states, ‘Grapevine has helped the Mon Motors Group save 20% on their mobile communication costs, but we always look to enhance customer relationships beyond financial improvements. From the very outset, Grapevine highlighted the technical support and attentiveness that we could offer, and these aspects are highly valued.’

Paul Lappage elaborates that the relationship between supplier and customer is progressing to one that it is a working partnership. He adds, ‘The Mon Motors Group has the reassurance that the team at Grapevine is immediately available for any issues that arise. Both organisations are strong in combating the current trading conditions, and Grapevine intends to work with the Mon Motors Group to continually implement efficiency improvements through mobile technology, whilst controlling costs, for many years to come.’

Spokesperson for the Mon Motors Group, Ashley Cleverly, is delighted with the new arrangements, stating, ‘Grapevine has impressed time and time again. Their willingness to take ownership of any issues sets their service apart. One of the reasons we utilise mobile devices is so that our sales team and senior managers are responsive to existing and potential customers, and it is evident Grapevine share this approach.’

Grapevine assist Bath Audi as part of the Mon Motors Group

Apprentice Star Joins CLA Rural Broadband CampaignClaire Young, runner-up of the 2008 series of BBC 1’s The Apprentice, has teamed up with the CLA in its campaign for effective rural internet broadband.

She said, ‘Having started a new business after The Apprentice, I have first-hand experience of how crucial good broadband access is for success. Business is no longer 9am-5pm, and in the current economic climate, it’s more demanding than ever.

‘In the modern world, rural areas should not be disadvantaged. It is time to take some action and make a change.

‘To offer a solution to what is often an economically damaging situation, the CLA has teamed up with Eurosat to provide a satellite broadband service to its members as an instant, if interim, solution.’

For further information about the CLA broadband campaign and satellite offering see www.cla.org.uk/Policy_Work/Broadband/

Fully Managed Hosted Voice over IP ServiceReduce your telephone call costs. Increase your flexibility with remote working whilst remaining fully contactable. Save on fuel bills. Keep the same number. Reduce your carbon footprint.

Range of IP HandsetsExtensive choice of IP phones to suit everyone’s needs.

Business BroadbandReceive a stable, reliable service that you and your customers expect.

Mobile Voice & Data SolutionsWide range of handsets available including Blackberry and Windows devices. New connections and upgrades available on all UK networks.

Call us now on01202 [email protected]

The next wave inTelecommunications is here

with TX Installations Ltd.

mobile matters

Your best connectionOn the move. In the office. In the area.

Sales / SupportDorset & Hampshire

James Spinks Corporate Sales Managert_0845 1236677 m_07775 928877e_ [email protected]

Mobile phone tariffs and handsets tailored to your requirements.No-obligation review of your current costs and methods of working to highlight where Grapevine can help.

Dedicated expertise to incorporate mobility onto your ICT and fixed line telecoms infrastructure.

Local technical support and proactive account management.

Established in 1991 Offering you our experience and stability as a supplier.

Cast your mind back to the late 1980’s, and the hey day of the car phone. The size and weight of a house brick, the device would nestle between the front seats with a signal that ranged from distant to dismal. That was mobile working!

Fast forward to the present and if you walk into a hotel lobby, or a Starbucks on a week day, you’ll see hosts or people hunched over laptops, talking on their mobiles or waiting for business colleagues to arrive. These people may be self employed, or may work for a company whose offices they rarely see; their days are organised for maximum efficiency to include working from home, holding meetings in hotels and seeing clients.

The boom in mobile working has come about not just because it’s an ultra efficient way to maximise work time – making work something you do rather than somewhere you go – but also because the huge advances in technology have made it feasible.

TheDecisiontoGoMobileDespite its growth, business can still be reluctant to adopt the practice. Concern about their staff slacking at their expense holds them back. ‘Business have everything to gain,’ says BT Local Business Managing Director David Hamer. ‘Benefits include increase agility, more productive employees, cost savings and lower carbon emissions from reduced travel, and increased responsiveness to customers.’

MakeaPlanIt doesn’t just happen, getting the right support in place is crucial to success. Hamer says, ‘It’s a cultural shift in expectations. Mobile workers are judged on their output rather than their input. With the right structure, self motivated and responsible employees will thrive.’ Managers will need to be proactive to keep remote staff motivated with regular calls and visits back to the office to sure their mobile employees feel valued.

TheTechnologyConference calls and live meetings are a practical alternative to face to face meetings, but shouldn’t be treated as a replacement. Successful mobile strategies combine key human issues with the relevant technology. Better mobile phones, faster broadband and more efficient laptops have all been key contributors to the explosive growth and made a huge difference to the viability of mobile working. Plus increasingly sophisticated technology such as can been found on smart phones such as the Blackberry are now considered essential for business people. The growth in public Wi-Fi has also fuelled the increase in mobile working. And where Wi-Fi does not exist, BT now offers connectivity to the internet via a dongle.

Today’s mobile workers can work virtually anywhere. For more help, support and information, BT Local Business can be contacted on

01202 868869.

Business on the Move with TXIIndustry experts estimate that 60% of calls end up in voice mail and more than half of mobile phone minutes are used within a company’s own walls!

With so many employees away from their desks and on the road many companies are finding that an increasing slice of their communication budget is devoted to mobility. The ability to communicate while on the move improves and enhances productivity as increasing numbers of employees are mobile, calls end up in voicemail leading to telephone tag, wasted time and reduced customer satisfaction.

In today’s tight economy deploying an effective unified mobile solution can help workers increase productivity, improve customer satisfaction and reduce communications costs. Where ever your workers are, working from home, on the road or in the office, more effective communications means that workers are always available to do their jobs.

Utilising solutions such as WPA Mobiles Mobility for Service Companies and the right mobile tariff combined with the remote access, voice mail to e-mail and find me follow me features available within Hosted Voice over IP really delivers the flexibility that the modern business expects.

The UK networks offer a confusing array of tariffs so its not surprising that many companies large and small are paying too much for their mobile communications because they have just renewed their contract rather than spend valuable time trying to navigate their way around the various offerings.

TXI is offering a free of charge tariff analysis for readers of The Business to ensure that companies are in the best position possible to take advantage of any promotions available from the UK networks.

The first 10 readers to request the Tariff Analysis Service will receive a free Muc-Off Optix pack.

For more information call 01202 233550 or e-mail [email protected]

Mobilise your Team!Empower your mobile workforce and you can reap business benefits with staff who can work as productively out of the office as in it.

mobile matters


Be Safe, Not SorryMany businesses are unaware or ill-prepared for what has been described as the biggest change in company law for a century. Less than three months now remain before the last stage of the mammoth Companies Act, passed in 2006, is implemented.

A raft of new measures will take effect from 1st October covering many aspects of running a company, from formation and constitution to creating a confidential register of directors and filing company

accounts. But according to Ellis Jones Solicitors, the Dorset and New Forest law firm, a large number of businesses are unaware of the changes and, as a result, could inadvertently fall foul of the act.

Lyn Tucker, of Ellis Jones’ commercial team, said the Companies Act represented a ‘seismic change in company law.’

She added, ‘The act is designed to cut red tape and administration which will be welcomed by all businesses, large and small. However, we’re finding that many businesses are unaware of the changes. For example, the new act contains a number of changes relating to a company’s articles of association.

‘Our advice is that companies should review their articles and check whether the changes will affect the day to day running of their business. At best a business could find itself missing out on measures designed to help them and, at worst, lose money or even risk action for non-compliance.’

Lyn advised businesses to take appropriate professional advice. ‘As always it’s better to be safe than sorry,’ she said.

lawlines

sponsored by:

The Difference is Our PeopleFrettens’ Commercial Lawyers:

Matthew Fretten - Business & Commercial PartnerMichelle Hayter - Litigation AssociateAmy Muncer - Commercial Solicitor Carl Geary - Litigation Trainee SolicitorClare Hallett - Commercial Property Solicitor

Kate Fretten - Employment AssociateOonagh McKinney - Commercial Property Partner

Paul Burton - Employment SolicitorLee Young - Tax Partner

Carla Barker - Litigation Legal Executive

www.frettens.co.ukChristchurch & the New Forest

01202 499255

lawlines

Company Law • Joint Ventures • Employment Data Protection • Banking Law • Litigation International Law • Business Sales & Purchases Partnership Law • Copyright & TrademarksCommercial Property • Construction & EngineeringDebt Recovery • Licensing

From Start-Ups to LLPs, from Limited Companies to PLCs, we apply expert legal solutions to any legal problem.

Our clients appreciate our open and straight forward approach. We provide specialist advice on a wide range of commercial transactions and agreements.

Experts in Business Law

Poole 01202 [email protected]

Dorchester 01305 [email protected]

Lyn Tucker

ADVERTISERS ANNOUNCEMENT

The Companies Act 2006 introduced a list of directors duties.Directors have a duty to promote the success of the company byincreasing the value of the company. Directors must be able toshow they have considered the following:

■ The likely consequences of any decision.

■ The interests of the companies employees.

■ The need to foster the companies business relationships.

■ The impact of the companies operations on a community andthe environment.

■ The desirability of maintaining reputation for high standards inbusiness conduct.

■ The need to act fairly between different members of thecompany.

It is made easier for an individual shareholder to sue the directorsfor breach. It will be most important for directors to keep clearminutes to show that commercial decisions were taken after dueconsideration of these factors.

A company can insuredirectors againstclaims made by thirdparties. Directorsshould therefore makesure that their servicecontract providescover before and afterretirement.

Directors:Beware

For more information contactJohn Calver [email protected] telephone 01202 557256

www.laceyssolicitors.co.uk

Excellence Award for FrettensFrettens Solicitors based in Christchurch has been awarded the Lexcel accreditation by the Law Society.

The Lexcel practice management standard is only awarded to solicitors who meet the highest management and customer care standards. Lexcel accredited practices undergo rigorous independent assessment every year to ensure they meet required standards of excellence in areas such as client care, case management and risk management.

Managing Partner Ian Fretten comments, ‘Being Lexcel accredited is a great testament to the firm’s efforts in providing outstanding service to our clients.’

Frettens recently held a very successful summer party attended by over 140 clients. The event was held in the beautiful grounds of Parley Manor where the sunshine and steel drum music (not to mention the Pimms!) was enjoyed by all.

Solomons ChoiceSolomons Solicitors has announced the appointment of Iain Lorrimer at its Bournemouth branch as a Legal Executive. Iain will be dealing with the firms conveyancing matters and will further boost the firm’s expertise in this area. Iain Lorrimer

Blogging Case Highlights Social Media Minefield for EmployersThe rise of citizen journalism gives everybody huge rights to broadcast their thoughts online but law firm Moore Blatch says that companies need to be aware of the consequences on its business.

Katherine Maxwell who heads up employment at Moore Blatch says that companies need to know what their staff are doing online – and have guidelines in place so all parties are aware of what is acceptable and what is not acceptable to an employer.

‘Companies need to be clear in their own minds about their online policy and this can vary dramatically,’’ she said. “For some companies it might be great to have staff on Facebook and Twitter talking about what is happening at work but for others this will be totally inappropriate.’

She said that without guidelines in place companies risk criticism from employees, confidential information being broadcast and even personal attacks on colleagues and, crucially, will have no procedure by which an employee can be disciplined.

Her advice follows a high profile blog case in the High Court in which a detective writing under the pseudonym of NightJack to criticise police methods has had his right to anonymity quashed.

‘This now means that bloggers effectively have no legal rights to keep their identities secret so employees cannot hope to criticise an employer and remain anonymous,’ she said.

Katherine Maxwell

The first step for companies is to formulate a policy and decide how best to implement this, be it a blog by the boss, authority for staff to comment on business issues and the wider community or to completely ban any company mentions by employees.

‘We have worked with a number of companies to formalise policy and then incorporate this into employment contracts,’ said Katherine. ‘Contracts can specify that all social media use should be in a personal capacity and not mention the employer.’

She forecasts that this kind of work is set to increase as social networking continues to gather pace and that companies need to act now to protect themselves.

Cost of Redundancy Set to Rise Business owners are being warned that the cost of making an employee redundant will rise on the 1st October. New compensation levels come in on that date according to the lead solicitor at employment law specialist RedundancyManager.co.uk.

Solicitor Gary Tait says the maximum weekly amount used to calculate statutory redundancy payments and unfair dismissal compensation will increase from £350 to £380.

The rise was announced in April 2009 Budget as a one-off increase intended to help people being made redundant.

Ian Fretten and Oonagh McKinney


new business focus

Recruiting in a downturn…

Sounds easy right? There must be hundreds of people out there looking for an opportunity like the one you have, but that may just be the problem.

How many people shouldyou interview? Are the best people hanging onto their jobs because of the uncertainty? What can you offer as an incentive that won’t increase your spending? Well fret not, Myriad HR can help.

Below are our top tips for finding and hiring staff in an economic downturn.

Hold an open day if you are a larger company, this way you can meet a lot of potential applicants in one day.

Offer inventive benefits. Appeal to potential candidates by offering employee benefits that make you stand out from other employers – the more creative the better!

Use low cost recruitment techniquessuch as referrals, recruiting at exhibitions and conferences, social networking (e.g. Facebook and LinkedIn) and previous employees.

Write a clear candidate profile ofany abilities and skills you need, outline the previous experience and qualifications you’d prefer and define an ideal location, availability and any other criteria that will help you in your initial filter of applicants.

If you need advice and guidance in employment, from hiring through to firing, just call Myriad HR on 01425 478475or visit www.myriadhr.co.uk for more information.

Start Strong, Stay StrongNothing can be more important than getting your new business off to a strong start, especially in this tough economic climate. Brian Hutchinson, Senior Partner with the Poole office of international accountancy and business advisory firm, Mazars LLP offers timely adviceQuestionyourideaPlay the devils’ advocate. You must ask yourself some tough and searching questions. What will differentiate your business from your competitors ? Are you a market leader or follower? Why will customers buy from you? Are there any weaknesses in your business idea? Create a clear vision of what you want your business to become in five years time. SWOTanalysisDo a SWOT analysis of your strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats. Consider the outside world too - the overall marketplace, the economy generally and any regulatory social or technological changes that might affect your business in the next five years.

After considering the ‘gaps’ in your plan and what extra resources you need to fulfil the plan, look at the strategies available and make your choice based upon suitability and feasibility.GetfeedbackShare the plan with your shareholders, managers and employees and get their feedback – they will play a vital part in its implementation. Don’t forget to monitor the plan regularly so you remain focused to your business needs. It’s easy to get sidetracked!GetexpertadviceDiscuss your management accounts regularly with your advisor – they should be able to help you design performance indicators, decipher the trends in the numbers and assist you in making business decisions. Get them to calculate the capital value of your business on a regular basis – if you’re working towards a sale one day this will be important to you. Consider inviting your accountant to a board meeting. They are more than just number-crunchers. Their understanding of your business and the numbers should be important in contributing not just to the strategy of the business but with decisions on pricing, staff rates of pay and supplier contracts.

If you are thinking of starting a new business, Mazars can help with accountancy and business advisory support.

For more information call 01202 680777.

Brian Hutchinson

Teenager Starts Photographic BusinessA 17-year-old from Bournemouth has started his own photographic business. Lucca, a self-taught photographer, has dedicated himself to achieving his goal of opening a photographic studio from an early age.

At first, being tired with only having his parents to act as models, Lucca turned to the internet and placed various ads looking for amateur models. The move proved to be successful and before he knew it, he was able to charge for his time. Through word of mouth, his website attracts people from various parts of the world. Later this year he hopes to travel to Italy for a photoshoot with an upcoming model in Milan.

His strong passion for photography, his creativity and his keen interest in the marketing side of things has helped Lucca find work. ‘Because of my minimal overheads, I am able to undercut prices to around 70% of what a fully established professional would charge. Also, people of my age group can’t afford £200 for a photo shoot - so they turn to me. Social networking sites are also extremely helpful for my publicity,’ said Lucca.

Lucca hopes to makes his business grow in the future while undergoing a photography course in Bournemouth.

Visit www.luccaphoto.co.uk

Start a Business – Now!A severe economic crisis provides one of the best times to start a new business, according to Jonathan Jay, founder of business growth consultancy SuccessTrack.

Multi-millionaire Jay who has successfully grown and sold businesses, is adamant that with the right attitude and approach, the fleet-of-foot will thrive despite the financial gloom. Recession will simply prove Darwin’s evolutionary theory, applied to business, of the survival of the fittest.

Jay provides seven reasons why now is a good time to start a business:-

Reasonone:The nervous will be getting out of your way – there is less competition from other start-ups.

Reasontwo:The ‘top dog’ in any industry is often so weighed down in administration and tradition they will struggle and make cutbacks. You can enter markets the big companies can’t afford to market to any more.

Reasonthree:The job market will be flooded with talented people made redundant by struggling businesses. These people have the fire in their belly to work with you to be the next market leader.

Reasonfour:Commercial rents are lower and you can pick up good property bargains.

Reason five: While everyone else is moaning about how bad everything is, you have the opportunity to build your own empire and then everyone will say, “How did that happen?”

Reasonsix:Excellent sales and marketing always wins and if you focus on these two areas of your business and don’t get your attention diverted by other details you will come out of any recession stronger as a result.

Reasonseven:Get used to not using credit and build a strong business out of cash flow; negotiate harder and get discounts wherever possible; if you can make it happen in lean times you will be the winner in better times.

Survival Guide for Students & Host FamiliesStudent-Host.com is the south’s brand new website for information on how to become a host family and for students who are thinking of studying English in the UK.

Designed and published by a group of experienced hostees, who, when thinking of becoming a host family a number of years ago, were relying on limited information, mainly gathered from language schools and from the experiences of family and friends. It was as a result of this short fall of information that a new business and website was born!

The new site also features information for students thinking of studying English in the UK and provides a basic ‘survival guide’ for all the people involved.

The aim of the site is to encourage fellow hostees and students alike to put forward their thoughts, issues, hints and tips for all to use.

Registration is free, visit www.student-host.com

New Business Free Website Makeover ServiceWhen Bournemouth businessman Steven Foster couldn’t find the web design service he needed to launch a new venture, rather than wait he simply set up his own. And he’s so convinced it is exactly what the business community is crying out for that he’s offering a free website makeover service.

‘I just got fed up with waiting weeks for web designers to come up with a website – I was losing business as a result,’ says Steve, a Director of creative agency GTI International.

‘In the current climate it’s hard enough for business without having to cope with delays that are beyond your control. You need a good, user-friendly website to get anything off the ground and being held back is just not acceptable anymore.’

Steve has launched www.designedbyctf.com which offers clients a no-fuss website makeover within a few days.

‘It’s simple. Our team of highly skilled web designers will re-skin your website and have it ready for your approval within days. Once the client is happy we’ll go ahead and completely overhaul the website to your requirements.

‘There’s no messing about, it’s a no-fuss, haggle-free service – you pay the price on the ticket and you can be up and running with a new website in a fraction of the time it can usually take.’


Writing for BusinessSpeechwriter, Brian Jenner, has published a new book, I’m Just Phoning to Chase My Invoice, a collection of funny stories about the perils of self-employment.

Brian collects the popular quotations for The Business every month, and his book includes quotations, jokes and wisdom about the challenges of running a business.

‘I spent nearly three years running BoMoCreatives in the town and that gave me lots of insights and amusing stories about entrepreneurs, especially those who do creative things,’ says Brian.

Brian will be giving a talk on how you can improve your writing skills when composing letters, website copy or presentations for your business on Tuesday 13th October in the boardroom of the Ink Bar on Richmond Hill. This will be followed by networking.

Tickets £10 include a glass of wine and a £2 discount on the new book, I’m Just Phoning to Chase My Invoice.

This event is part of the Bournemouth Literary Festival which runs from 12th-18th October 2009.

To reserve a place telephone 01202 551257.

To find out more about Brian’s book project go to www.chasingmyinvoice.co.uk

�0 BusinessThe September 2009 �1BusinessThe2009 September

Networking Storm in Poole

L-r: Frances Miles and Tracey Wood

Whether you’re striking out and setting up on your own or growing an existing business, PR and marketing are key and often benefit from the support of multi-skilled professionals who can appreciate the needs and time restraints of women in business.

For Ladies Who Don’t Have Time for Lunch

ww

w.p

-pr.c

o.uk

· Public Relations

· Marketing

· Events

· Training

The 2009 Woman of the YearOpen to any successful businesswoman in the UK, the Woman of the Year Awards ceremony is a high profile event attended by some of the country’s most successful businesswomen. The 2009 awards is set to see hundreds of the most influential women in British commerce descend upon Birmingham’s NEC Hilton Metropole Hotel in early October to discover who will win the coveted prize.

Last year’s winner, Hilary Devey, founder of international haulage firm Pall-ex and star of Channel 4’s Secret Millionaire, will join publishing sensation Preethi Nair as keynote speakers.

Award nominations close on 11th September 2009. For more information visit www.womenoftheyear.org.uk

Do You R.E.A.L.ly Recruit Fairly?

Rebecca Fordham

Stay Forever Gorgeous at The Queens Hotel

Women entrepreneurs are using innovative and flexible ways to avoid debt and survive the recession, making them more positive about coping with the economic crisis than men, according to a national Women’s Enterprise Task Force (WETF) report.

Dorset Women in Business Event a Huge Success!

research also highlighted that many women still operate and work in sectors which are most vulnerable in the recession. However, the report shows that women in these sectors are not being disproportionately affected compared to men.

Whilst recognising that the data in this current economic climate is volatile, the Task Force believes there are lessons to be learned. Accessing finance programmes, such as the ASPIRE women’s co-investment fund, and seeking procurement options, are ways in

Free Guide from Business LinkWomen represent half the UK’s population, but are the largest under-represented group in the UK in terms of participation in business. Starting a business as a woman is a free guide produced by Business Link to help you get the best start possible and to help you to understand your responsibilities. Visit www.businesslink.gov.uk

women talk

The report was commissioned to illustrate the effects of the recession on women’s enterprise in the UK. It showed that such things as accessing procurement in the private and public sectors and using flexible employment contracts to avoid high overhead costs are helping to ensure the sustainable growth of women-owned enterprises.

The WETF report shows that women are fully aware of the difficult environment that they are working in, but many of the female case studies surveyed did

not have high levels of debt. Instead, they were using flexible employment contracts to avoid high overhead costs, which meant that their revenues and sales were increasing. The fact that these female entrepreneurs operate in competitive sectors, such as retail and services, makes this low-cost, low-debt model attractive to larger companies who are looking to source from cheaper and more flexible suppliers.

Despite optimism among female entrepreneurs, the

which female entrepreneurs can save money and face the recession with more optimism.

Women are only half as likely as men to set up businesses, with only 13.6% of entrepreneurs being female. Similarly, although 16% of all UK companies are owned by women, just 3% of all corporate and public sector contracts are awarded to women-owned businesses. However, despite this under-representation, it is estimated that women’s enterprise currently contributes £130bn per annum to the UK economy.

Successful ladies-only networking breakfast, Dorset Women in Business, joined together for their second meeting at the beginning of July at Penn Central Café Bar in Parkstone. The session provided an excellent networking opportunity for females across Dorset to meet other local, like-minded businesswomen.

The event was co-hosted by Poole based Tasty Marketing and HSBC’s Bournemouth representative, Lucy York.

The date for the third Dorset Women in Business networking breakfast is 22nd September at The Olive Branch in Wimborne. Tickets cost £12, contact Tasty Marketing on 01202 656762.

Tracey Wood and Frances Miles, Directors of Jobshop Frances Miles of Jobshop UK established the Business Women’s Lunch Club nine years ago. During this time the club has evolved into a friendly, supportive, not-too-structured club that women from all professions and organisations are welcome to attend.

The club provides businesswomen with a regular meeting place for support, networking and the pooling of resources and knowledge.

Meetings are held every six weeks in the convivial atmosphere of Storm Restaurant

in High Street, Poole. In addition to eating a delicious lunch, members have the opportunity to hear a range of speakers who are specifically chosen to entertain and inform.

For more information contact Tracey Wood on 01202 674488.

The Queens Hotel, Bournemouth, has launched a brand new Day Spa and Beauty Clinic. Already offering guests a large indoor pool with sauna, steam room and Jacuzzi and gym, the hotel has now extended its leisure and beauty facilities to include three treatment rooms offering an array of services.

The Forever Gorgeous Day Spa is a relaxing sanctuary

nestled in the heart of the hotel. Predominantly specialising in semi-permanent makeup, the spa’s fully trained staff are also able to offer Dermalogica facials, St Tropez tanning, Creative nail enhancements, RegimA face peels, non-surgical facelifts, body sculpting, massage, manicures, pedicures, waxing and tinting.

Be one of the first to experience the Forever Gorgeous Day Spa and Clinic and mention this publication for a 15% discount off your first treatment.

The launch night will be on the 24th September at 7pm where staff and industry professionals will be demonstrating a variety of procedures. For further information call 01202 294774.

When Managing Director, Rebecca Fordham, decided it was time to expand the team at R.E.A.L. People Solutions, she had no preference on what sex she recruited. And being an expert in recruitment as well as other people matters, it was straight forward for her to advertise and interview for the vacancies, safe in the knowledge that she was doing so completely fairly.

However, R.E.A.L. has worked with many clients who do not have the expert knowledge to make sure they say and do the right things when it comes to recruiting with no sexual discrimination. From the wording of an advert, right through the recruitment cycle and beyond; it is imperative that an employer keeps an open mind as to the suitability of the candidate based on ability, not gender.

The recruitment process must reflect this. An example concern of an employer is a mother with children and how this will affect the ability of the woman to fulfil her role. Well, with the correct questions, an employer can find this information out.

The important thing is to ensure all candidates, men and women, are asked the same questions and that no matter how ‘conversational’ the interview becomes, alluding to the inability of a woman to fulfil a role successfully based on her having children is an absolute no-no!

Prospective employees have rights to sue for sexual discrimination if an advert or interview is not gender neutral, so for advice on recruiting without any discrimination, contact Rebecca in absolute confidence on 0845 094 6242 or visit www.realpeoplehr.com

Wimborne based P-PR Media Solutions is run by Jackie Phillipson who can genuinely boast a proven and wide-ranging track record with over 20 years in the industry. Past and present clients range from international blue chip, construction and luxury property development to exclusive events with guest lists that regularly include celebrities from the world of film, TV and music and the top echelons of London society.

P-PR is very much a ‘can do’ company and Jackie takes the hands-on approach for all her clients. As the events manager of a major charitable trust says of P-PR’s work for their annual fundraising ball: ‘Jackie and the P-PR team are simply the best. They add a huge amount of value to all our events. For the past two years, without them we would not have the coverage, support and much more besides and we all know we can rely on Jackie to help us out when the going

gets tough. I know P-PR often have to do things behind the scenes to ensure the event runs smoothly but we never know until after the event as they always find a solution.’

P-PR is now not only ‘can do’ but also ‘how to’ with a recently launched training facility showing delegates how to promote themselves and their business through the press and broadcast via interviews and editorial, customer relationship management and strategic planning. So if you want a no-nonsense, effective promotional programme for your business or learn how to achieve results using your own skills, contact Jackie Phillipson by e-mail [email protected] or visit www.p-pr.co.uk

�� BusinessThe September 2009 ��BusinessThe2009 September

Sandbanks-based company, Liz Lean PR, has been appointed to create a series of high profile events to launch the new Executive Business Centre (EBC) at Bournemouth University throughout September and October.

Based on the Lansdowne Campus, this new, contemporary building offers the latest business accommodation; from the paper-free e-library and bespoke study areas, to executive dining and an open access café, with the focus firmly on ‘doing business’.

Liz Lean PR has created a programme of exclusive business events to reflect the spirit of business, which is nurtured and thriving at the Executive Business Centre. Invited guests will have the opportunity to view the new state of the art facilities available at the EBC, while networking with some of the area’s biggest businesses.

This calendar of inspirational launch events will help establish the EBC not only as a central business hub for the region, but also as a centre of excellence for business where the Business School delivers a range of executive education programmes, including the high-profile Bournemouth MBA.

Professor Thomas Lange, Dean of BU Business School, said, ‘The vision to develop a Business School of truly international standing is precisely what Bournemouth and the region requires and rightly deserves. We shouldn’t settle for anything less, and I look forward to working with Liz Lean PR, all colleagues in the Business School and beyond to showcase our strengths and world-class expertise.’

The Business (Dorset) Ltd, 9 Gainsborough Rd, Ashley Heath, Ringwood BH24 2HYe:[email protected]:www.bizmag.co.uk

october: copy date 15th September Hotel Highlight • Office Solutions Web Experts • Property Business Occupational Hazards november: copy date 16th October Recruitment Experts • Energy Management Party Time • Law at Work • Ferndown Focus

THE INDEPENDENT MAGAZINE FOR DORSET, WEST HANTS AND SALISBURYspecialfeatures

t:01425471500f:01425475600

New BU Executive Business Centre

Bournemouth University’s new Executive Business Centre.

education at work

Make a difference in your business today – call Emma Wimhurst on 01202 830653 or visit: www.EMpwr.co.uk.

EM’s Business Discipline No.5

People Management

Emma Wimhurst

Do you have the right team in

place? HavingtherightteaminplaceisreallywhatputstheBOOM!intoyourbusiness. This doesn’t just relate to your employees but also to the external support functions too. People management and recruitment are skills that rarely come naturally and most owner/managers find the recruitment and training aspects of running a business the most daunting. However with careful planning, it is possible to make the process fairly simple, yet deliver outstanding results. How? You just need total clarity regarding the outcomes required. Is your team performing at its best? If not, then by adopting some different strategies, your most expensive resource will become your most valuable asset. Emma Wimhurst guarantees to improve your team performance, which will free up your management time and increase your profitability using her 7 Business Disciplines system. Emma is a proven Entrepreneur, Motivational Business Speaker and Business Mentor – regularly presenting for The Coaching Academy & Success Track – and in the Autumn can be seen at Start-ups Live, The Business Start Up Show, everywoman National Conference and Jo Cameron’s WOW! Annual Conference.

Tracie Beardsley is a Director of Fab Frocks of Westbourne, an exclusive boutique in Bournemouth specialising in evening, cocktail, wedding outfits and prom dresses. Tracie launched the shop seven years ago and now runs it with fellow Director Steve Taylor. Tracie has a BA Honours degree in Media and Communication and before starting her own business, worked as woman and lifestyle editor for the Southern Daily Echo. She has also worked for various national magazines, radio and TV stations.

Combining Tracie’s flair for fashion with Steve’expertise in IT and retail has put Fab Frocks firmly on the map as a destination boutique, with customers travelling from all over the UK as well as Ireland, and the Channel Islands. This year, Fab Frocks expanded to launch Dorset’s first dedicated mother-of-the-bride boutique next door to its existing premises at Seamoor Road, Westbourne.

QWhat is your unique selling point (USP)?Firstly, what we offer. We specialise in evening and cocktail wear all year round. Many shops only have such dresses at Christmas time yet there are events twelve months of the year. We also strive to bring labels to this area exclusive to us – designers from Paris, London, New York to name but a few. Our most important USP is our commitment to customer service. We believe in dressing real women of all shapes and sizes and making the experience of finding that perfect outfit as enjoyable and stress-free as possible for them.

QWhat gives you job satisfaction?Feedback from customers who are delighted with the service they have received from us. Women who tell us they were showered with compliments when they wore a dress from Fab Frocks. Over-hearing people say that they love Fab Frocks. Helping a woman who lacks confidence to go out looking stunning gives me such a buzz.

QWhatisthebestpieceofbusinessadvicethatyouhave been given?However small a step it is, move your business forward in some way every day. Fab Frocks may be a small business but we approach it with the mindset of a big business. We work hard on growing the future of the business as well as working in the business on a daily basis.

QFour most desirable dinner guests and why?IanHislop, editor of Private Eye. I love a man who can make me laugh.GeorgeClooney – with those looks I wouldn’t mind if he didn’t make me laugh!VivienneWestwood – I love her eccentricity, energy and the way she has always stayed true to her individuality. She also looks amazing for her age.MyhusbandJohn – he is a fantastic cook and I wouldn’t be able to host a dinner party without his help.

QHow do you relax after a busy day?Saturdays tend to be our busiest day in Fab Frocks, often with seven changing rooms on the go at once, so my Saturday night treat is a cocktail and putting my feet up. No one warned me just how hard retail is on your feet.

Right Place, Right Time, Right Savings

L-r: Neil and Jeanette Dowden with Helen Frank

Media Masterclass for Dorset Teams

L-r: Tracy Franklin, Business Link; Gareth Evans; Jackie Phillipson, P-PR Media Solutions; Debbie Thrower and Ian Girling, Business Link.

Getting a positive message into the media and showcasing how to look good on camera and to make the most impact on journalists has never been more important – and a special Business Link seminar took place recently to show guests ‘How to sell yourself on camera, on the radio and in the press.’

The half-day masterclass on 27th July was attended by delegates from almost 100 companies who learnt from experienced broadcast journalists Debbie Thrower and Gareth Evans and PR Jackie Phillipson the crucial methods needed to gain column inches in the press and how to prepare for successful airtime on both radio and television. Exposure in the media can be more affective than advertising and the trainers explained the vital ground rules to making the most of the opportunities available.

Debbie prepared delegates for radio interviews and how to make the most of the opportunity. Jackie explained how to gain positive coverage in the local media by writing effective press releases and Gareth helped the delegates understand how to become better communicators on television.

Impromptu television interviews took place during the seminar offering delegates a chance to critique and applaud the ‘do’s and dont’s’ for a good television interview. The seminar closed with a variety of simulated live TV interviews conducted by Gareth with the audience making suggestions on how best to improve their techniques. ‘Businesses often shy away from media coverage’, says Ian Girling of Business Link, ‘because they don’t know how to handle the media – there’s a lot of mistrust around. Our message to companies is – learn to maximise your media opportunities – editorial from press releases is free and can equate to thousands of pounds worth of advertising when used correctly.

The value of positive exposure in the media can be immensely powerful and this seminar showed how important it is that you are prepared and gave useful tips and insights on how to best maximise the opportunity once you have a media interview arranged.’

Disability is No Barrier to Construction WorkerPoole-based construction company Greendale Construction prides itself on encouraging employees to gain qualifications in their different fields of work.

Steve Bolson joined the firm as a carpenter in 2006, however he had no formal qualifications, but it wasn’t only that which threatened to hold him back - Steve is also profoundly hearing and speech impaired.

Steve has now achieved his NVQ level 2 in Wood Occupations.

No Reduction in Gender Pay Gap

Helen Frank, who has been running her business Rightsavings.co.uk for just over two years, has helped a Bournemouth family make huge savings on their utilities.

‘Saving money and cutting costs is high on everyone’s agenda, particularly during the

current economic downturn,’ says Helen.

The Dowden family from Bournemouth was keen to find a way of doing just that when they met Helen of Rightsavings.co.uk.

‘Helen was able to offer us a 25%-30% saving across all of our utilities,’ said Jeanette Dowden, ‘and that’s on both our domestic and business usage.’

Helen comments, ‘Our product has been awarded ‘best buy’ for its energy, telephony and internet by Which? Magazine, plus we were recently voted “Financial Times Company of the Year”. So with great prices, and great endorsements that people have faith in, we are busier than ever.’

The Equality and Human Rights Commission has launched a consultation on how private and voluntary sector employers* with at least 250 staff can measure and report on their gender pay gap.

Women working full-time currently earn 17.1% less per hour on average than men, with the gap failing to improve in the past three years. The difference in some sectors such as finance, are much wider and the majority of organisations are not aware of their own gender pay gap. The pay gap is even greater for part-time female workers who earn

36.6% per hour (39.9% median) less per hour than men working full-time (part-time male workers also earn 27% less per hour compared to men working full-time)

The commission believes that developing ways for employers to measure and report on their gender pay gap will be a crucial step towards reducing pay inequity by providing greater transparency.

*The reporting measures will be used by non-public sector employers with more than 250 employees.

women talk


education at work

Staff Sent Back to the Classroom to Improve Literacy SkillsBusinesses are sending their staff back to the classroom to relearn basic skills like letter writing.

Ringwood-based Human Resources firm Jaluch has been called in to numerous companies to give lessons on the art of letter writing and written communications.

They say the problems stem from failures in basic education as well as laziness and a growing obsession with text speak.

Gina Leccacorvi, a Director of Jaluch, said, ‘Many employees have concerns about their own lack of basic skills, some have had no written skills training since school and lack confidence when it comes to business correspondence.

‘Sending out sloppy company communications could be very costly – it reduces your credibility, hampers productivity and may lose business you might otherwise have won. Yet amazingly many businesses seem to turn a blind eye.’

Jaluch, which has offices in Ringwood, Reading and London, recommends bosses randomly monitor internal and external communications to see which staff could benefit from extra training or guidance.

Gina added, ‘At the very least managers should invest in a dictionary and simple grammar guide for staff and raise awareness of the need to look and sound professional at all times. They could also consider drawing up an employment policy relating to expected standards of written communications.

‘Some companies have a dedicated proof reader in each department who checks all formal letters and others operate a buddy system whereby employees check each other’s work.’

The firm issues a note of caution to employers to ensure efforts to raise written communication standards don’t result in a disability discrimination claim from those employees with learning difficulties such as dyslexia.

Gina Leccacorvi, a Director of Jaluch.

Poole-based tax and accountancy adviser Elizabeth Tapley gives advice on financial matters to small businesses.

Q I am self-employed and pay National Insurance Contributions monthly. Can I stop paying National Insurance once I have enough qualifying years to get a full basic state pension?

A There are two classes of National Insurance that are applicable to self-employed individuals.

Class 2 National Insurance Contributions must be paid until the earlier of the date on which you cease to trade, or the day on which you reach the qualifying age for state pension. For those individuals who have a low income, it is possible to apply for a small earnings exemption from Class 2 - the current exemption limit is £5,075 net earnings per year.

Class 4 National Insurance Contributions are computed according to the net profit each year on your self assessment tax return. The final liability for Class 4 Contributions falls in the tax year you cease to trade, or the year you reach the qualifying age for state pension.

There have been changes to the rules regarding the number of qualifying years required to receive the full basic state pension. For the period to 5 April 2010 men will normally need to achieve 44 qualifying years by the age of 65 and women will normally need to achieve 39 qualifying years by the age of 60.

The Pensions Act 2007 has reduced the number of qualifying years required to receive the basic state pension. Men and women reaching state pension age on or after 6 April 2010 will need to have achieved 30 qualifying years in order to receive that basic pension.

Elizabeth Tapley is based at 295 Wallisdown Road and specialises in managing tax and accountancy affairs for small business owners. She can be contacted by phone or email

Tel: 01202 [email protected]

Can I Stop Paying National Insurance Contributions?

Senior Managers Missing Out on £1,000 of Government-Funded Training Senior managers in UK businesses are missing out on training funded by the government – because they wrongly think it’s only for ‘lower level staff ’.

But actually the Train to Gain scheme is open to senior staff as well, with grants available of up to £1,000 per person.

Now management development expert Mark Jacobs of The Mdina Partnership is recommending business leaders get in touch with the scheme at traintogain.gov.uk.

He said, ‘There is a perception among some senior managers that Train to Gain can only be used by employees who need to sharpen up their admin skills, for example.

‘But the beauty of the scheme is that it can be used to fund virtually any commercially-available training approved by the government.

‘That means that experienced senior staff can subsidise the cost of high level management development and training programmes.’

It was recently reported that only 3% of the £797m Train to Gain budget was spent on developing managers in 2008-09, despite there being four million managers in the UK.

You’re NOT Fired!When Christchurch-based Time Business Systems decided to expand its team this time last year, the decision was made to approach Bournemouth & Poole College about having an apprentice.

Selwyn Burke, Managing Director at Time, says, ‘We could have placed an ad in the local paper, or contacted a recruitment agency, but we decided that an apprentice on day release to the local college would match our long term needs and give a young person a great opportunity to study and gain practical experience at the same time. Of course, we gain from the education the college offer our apprentice as well as the support they provide each quarter – checking on how things are going.’

Time Business Systems is a leading distributor for Ricoh printers, copiers, scanners and multifunctional machines in the Dorset, Hampshire and Wiltshire areas. Apprentice, Ben Gorrod, also receives training on the latest industry technology directly by Ricoh and benefits from Time’s highly knowledgeable and experienced engineers.

Ben is equally pleased with the apprenticeship; ‘It’s great to work for a company that cares about employees as well as its customers. I feel really positive about my long term prospects thanks to this opportunity.’

For more information about Time Business Systems visit www.time-business.co.uk

Find out more at www.bournemouth.ac.uk/ebcExecutive Business Centre, 89 Holdenhurst Road, Bournemouth

Bournemouth University is pleased to announce its newExecutive Business Centreis opening for business this September.


education at work

• TrainingConsultancy• TrainingNeedsAnalysis• InstituteofLeadership&

ManagementRegisteredCentre• MediationServices 4

Training4per4mance LtdPoole, Dorset

Tel: 01202 605090 Fax: 01202 605090www.training4per4mance.co.uk

Email: [email protected]

education at work

Olympic Medallist Launches Training Initiative

Local marathon runner, double Olympian and Commonwealth medallist Liz Yelling was joined by 100 children from the Malmsbury Park School at the Littledown Centre in Bournemouth to launch a new fitness training initiative for children and their families. The Castlepoint Fun Run Challenge will be held in the grounds of the

Littledown Centre on Sunday 18th October to raise money for the Dorset and Somerset Air Ambulance.

Liz Yelling and her team are to work with over 25 schools in the region using a package of running activities to get pupils fit to run over a mile at the Castlepoint fun run. The routines are more short distance challenges so that children do not face what can be considered boring non stop track running.

Peter Matthews, General Manager at Castlepoint, said at the launch that they were pleased to be the named sponsor: ‘It is very clever the way Liz Yelling and her husband Martin have devised the package to help build fitness stamina in a fun way for young participants. We hope to have over 1,000 participants in the Castlepoint Fun Run Challenge in October.’

Liz Yelling said that the longer term aim of the project is to have over 2012 young people running in the London Olympic year of 2012.

The school focused campaign is also supported by Bournemouth Sports Colleges Partnership and Bournemouth Leisure Services.

Front l-r: Peter Matthews, Liz Yelling &Event Race Director Steve Wardman. Back: Pupils from the Malmsbury Park School.

Vanessa Wants You to ‘Train to Gain’ for FreeWatch Out World public speaking expert and lead trainer Vanessa Ugatti is making it her mission to get business people to ‘Train to Gain’ while economic times are testing. Enterprises throughout the UK can access funding grants for training, as long as they fit the broad eligibility criteria.

Vanessa offers a selection of one day training courses and personalised one-to-one coaching sessions which provide insight and guidance about how to improve your presentation skills and speak more confidently. Vanessa provides valuable and practical advice on how to improve the most important aspects of verbal communications: what you say, how you say it and your body language. The good news is that the ‘Train to Gain’ grants completely cover these course and coaching fees.

Vanessa feels that in the current economic climate getting your business message across clearly and confidently is of paramount importance.

Vanessa said ‘My training programmes can give you the skills to get your business proposition across in a more memorable and dynamic way, which can give businesses a big advantage in the marketplace. At the moment, through ‘Train to Gain’ funding grants your business can recoup the costs too, so there really is no better time to take advantage and train your staff to compete better in the future when the economy recovers.’

The ‘Train to Gain’ grant can cover training costs of up to £1,000. For eligibility please contact Train to Gain on 08456 047 047 (south west) and 08457 512 288 (south east). To book your place on one of Watch Out World’s various training courses visit www.watchoutworld.co.uk

The accounts system at the Arts University College at Bournemouth (AUCB) is being ‘Enhanced’ after the technology for business provider won the tender to supply the AUCB with an award winning finance software package.

The tender for a new finance package was put forward after the University College decided its current system had reached the maximum potential, and, with the continued growth of the University College, there was a need for a replacement that would give the level of required reporting in addition to handling the increased volume of transactions in finance.

Enhanced was chosen because the company demonstrated not only an excellent understanding of the requirements, but also was able to demonstrate that its proposed solution was particularly appropriate to the needs of the University College, introducing a team of committed individuals who work together closely to resolve any problems.

Enhanced put together a tender that took into account the fact that the University College required a system of the right calibre that was highly regarded; had the ability to be scalable to handle the large volume of transactions that the University College deals with; and also had the ability to be rolled out around the different sections within the University College if required.

They choose Access Dimensions business and accounting software, an award winning mid-range product – written by the UK’s largest business and accounting software house – to cover the needs of the University College. In addition, they added Access Focal Point, an integrated web enabled aspect of Dimensions which allows external users to the accounts system to utilise a broad range of standard business features.

As a result of the new software, the University College will ultimately have a much tighter control over its accounting functions – faster processing of information; a safer, more secure system and more timely reporting which can be made easily available to budget holders outside of the accounts department. It will have a system that can handle significant growth in the accounts department and the University College itself.

The implementation of the software package began in May 2009 and the system went live on 1st August 2009. Simon White, Managing Director of Enhanced commented, ‘Enhanced is delighted to be working with the Arts University College at Bournemouth. We were up against tough competition and to have won the account is a great accolade. As a local company we are committed to giving the University College our total support and commitment.’

Using the New System. L-r: Steve Harvey, Head of ITCS; Maria Sethre, MIS Development Manager; Dave Stoddart, MIS Project Officer at the University College; Simon White, Managing Director and Sarah Pollard, Business Development Manager at Enhanced.

The Arts University College at Bournemouth Becomes ‘Enhanced’

Photographic Courses on Brownsea IslandIf you fancy photographing the mysterious red squirrel, or capturing a beautiful sunrise over Poole Harbour, then a three-day residential photographic workshop on Brownsea Island could be for you.

The workshop is run by the Arts University College at Bournemouth, which has a history of photography spanning over 50 years and includes notable alumni such as leading fashion photographer Nick Knight and Turner Prize winner Wolfgang Tillmans.

Courses take place in autumn 2009 and spring and summer 2010 with the workshops covering a number of subjects including painting with light sessions; photographic filters; landscape, nature and wildlife photography techniques; and post production Photoshop techniques.



By Malcolm Scott Walby, Commercial Solicitor, Scott Walby LLP and Past President of Dorset Business

The entrance to Hotel du Vin says it all; impressive, exclusive and a little bit quirky. The hotel nestles unassumingly in Poole’s town, close to the quay in the old Mansion House building and happily retains many of the original Mansion House staff (who were employed at other Hotel du Vin hotels during the recent extensive development).The stairs into the entrance hall lead the eye to the witty mural, featuring many of the key design staff responsible for the success of the Hotel du Vin group, and up to the magnificent chandelier formed out of (160) wine glasses and the reception area now on the same floor depicts a sailing mural with each of the hotels listed on the sail boat ensigns. Also situated on the same floor are the private meeting or dining rooms aptly named Port and Starboard.

I was lucky enough to be invited to join Hotel du Vin’s Resident Manager Emma Lloyd, PPR’s Jackie Phillipson and Gill Bevis, Editor of The Business magazine for dinner and a personal guided tour.Wow! Changes wrought by the Hotel du Vin design team and local construction company Greendale Construction are considerable and you can see why the discerning elite falls for this boutique style of hotel. Recent guests have included: Jeff Wayne, Jennifer Ellison, Harry Rednapp, Chris Ellison and Graeme Souness to name just a few! The Flagship Suite The Dom Perignon, for

example, not only has the obligatory flat screen TV facing the grand super king size bed, and not one but two baths facing a further flat screen TV. Downstairs, there have also been major changes and now the feeling is one of opulent space. A generous court yard is a new feature inviting guests to sit outside for a while with a pre-dinner cocktail, expertly crafted by the mixologist’ at the bar. When you are lucky enough to sample his concoctions you will understand it is really an ‘ology,’ and the expresso martinis are absolutely divine, who would have thought that a coffee at the end of the evening could tempt you into The Crows Nest (a cosy snug with an open fire just off the bar area) to continue your evening well past bedtime! The dining experience at Hotel du Vin can only be described as a catalyst for enjoyment. The service was impeccable and the atmosphere conducive to a relaxing and intimate event. Somehow we managed to end up swapping ghost stories which lead on to guest stories with many famous names having been previous Hotel du Vin visitors. The food was central to the enjoyment of this experience. There being four of us, I shall only mention some of the high notes. The plaice main course was matched by local Dorset lamb, both succulent and perfectly presented by Head Chef Darren Rockett, one of many of the Old Mansion House staff. More about the food, I chose the Escargot (sourced from Dorset Escargot) and the Donald Russell Rib Eye Steak, also tasted at the table was the Mackerel Escabeche, expertly cooked risotto with tasty morsels of perfectly char grilled squid and a just pink rump of Springfields lamb. Emma is serious about sourcing local food. This is reflected in the menu; part Hotel du Vin favourites and part reflecting local surroundings. The Hotel du Vin raisin d’etre is carried through to the exquisitely equipped wine tasting room, featuring a custom made table for each guest to enjoy a full wine tasting experience, special tailored courses can be booked by the public and are open to corporate events as well. Our senses simpered with pure temptation at the bottles of superb wine lining the walls, however, we were forcibly evicted from this room to enjoy dinner so I must think of a way of organising a wine tasting event. The convivial and relaxed atmosphere lead to a superb evening. The entertaining company of the three ladies meant that I did not make a full record of the exact wines or food (this part is usually done conscientiously by my wife) however, I can report excellent service, superb food and a great experience in a gorgeous setting.

e a t I n g o u t

Advertising Feature

Review: Hotel du Vin, Poole

I think. Therefore I du Vin.

Spectacularly du Vin .FOLLOW THE FIREWORKS WITH SIMPLE CLASSICS AT BISTRO DU VIN POOLE.

Entries will only be accepted from residents of Poole who are not connected to HdV Poole or Borough of Poole Communications Team. Entries must be with us by 1st November 2009. Written entries are also accepted.Winning entries will be submitted for entry into the prize draw and will be drawn by the Hotel du Vin’s General Manager. Winners will be notified by email by 3rd November. By answering the promotion you will beadded to the Hotels’ Mailing List. Room & Dinner must be taken on the night of 5th Nov 2009 includes 3 courses from the A La Carte.

The night doesn’t have to end once the last fireworks have vanished into

the nights sky. This year, after taking in the show at Poole Quay make your

way along to Bistro du Vin & Bar Poole, warm yourself up and set your

tastebuds alight with simple classics in a trademark bistro with an outstanding

glass of wine or two, or even a local beer. This November 5th treat yourself

for less than you ever imagined. Spectacularly du Vin.

Thames Street, Poole,Dorset BH15 1JN

To book telephone

01202 785 [email protected]

38 BEDROOMS BAR & BISTRO ALFRESCO & PRIVATE DINING LAROCHE TASTING ROOM EVENTS & MEETINGS OUTSTANDING CELLAR

WIN A NIGHTS STAY ON 5TH NOVEMBERWITH DINNER FOR TWO IN THE BISTRO.

EMAIL YOUR ANSWER TO [email protected]

Simply answer the following question: Who attempted to blow upthe Houses of Parliament on the fateful night of November 5th?

Poole Bonfire Ad:Layout 1 12/8/09 16:51 Page 1

e a t I n g o u t

Advertising Feature

Ride the Marriott Express to the Highcliff GrillThe Bournemouth Highcliff Marriott Hotel has agreed major sponsorship of the West Cliff Lift until the end of 2010.

The West Cliff Funicular Lift, built in 1908, links the seafront with the top of the West Cliff, where the Bournemouth Highcliff Marriott Hotel is located.

The official launch of the new ‘Marriott Express’ was held on Tuesday, 4th August 2009, supported by the African Show Zambezi Express, currently showing at the Pier theatre, members of the local community and holidaymakers.

In addition to the sponsorship, the 4 star hotel, will be refunding the lift ticket fare against drinks and afternoon tea in the Highcliff Lounge and Bar and Sunday lunch or even dinner in the Highcliff Grill.

‘I am delighted that we were given the opportunity to sponsor one of the town’s major attractions linking two historical Bournemouth landmarks - the Highcliff Hotel and the West Cliff Lift. I hope that the Marriott Express will entice the locals and visitors to Bournemouth to experience the Highcliff’s exceptional views across the bay and its outstanding Food and Beverage offerings,’ said Michael Regenhardt, General Manager at the Bournemouth Highcliff Marriott Hotel.

Call the Bournemouth Highcliff Marriott Hotel on 01202 557702.

Dorset FestivalSouth coast law firm, Steele Raymond LLP, is sponsoring the “Feast of Dorset,” a new food and drink festival. Taking place on Saturday 19th & Sunday 20th September 2009, the festival will promote the best of local, seasonal and sustainable West Country produce within the visually stunning setting of the ancient gardens of Deans Court, Wimborne Minster at harvest time.

BEST of the BEST Awards 2009 Splinters Restaurant has been voted winner in the Best Restaurant category of the Christchurch Food & Wine Festival’s Best of the Best Awards 2009, sponsored by the Daily Echo and in association with the Captains Club Hotel.

Splinters is used to receiving awards having been the winner in this category in 2004, 2006 and 2007 and the Best Business Lunch category in 2008. Splinters also has two AA rosettes for culinary excellence.

L-r: James Hyde; Tania Tarrant; Paul Putt, Chef/Proprietor;) Agnes Putt, Proprietor; Rob Manson and Yannick Joynes

Daily echo award Winner 2003, 2004, 2006, 2007Best Restaurant for Family DiningLunch from £4.95 including Soft Drink or Coffee

tel: 01202 471608www.lamamma.co.uk 51 - 53 Bridge St, Christchurch BH23 1DY

• Buzzy Lively Atmosphere• Business Lunches• Parties, Families• That Special Occasion• Garden Dining Terrace• A La Carte Menu

• Pizza & Pasta Dishes• Blackboard Specials• Fish• Light Lunch Menu• Take Away Service• Children Most Welcome

Car Giant Finds a Refreshing Stop at Hive Beach CaféThe award winning Hive Beach Café at Burton Bradstock, West Dorset, was recently chosen by one of the world’s biggest car makers to help drive home the important launch of a new vehicle. The Hive was specially selected by Italian car giant Fiat to host the launch of the new 500 C, the convertible version of the firm’s popular supermini. More than 120 motoring and lifestyle journalists from around the UK, and a team of Fiat executives, visited the Hive as part of a phased test drive. Owner Steve Attrill says, ‘It’s a great chance not only to have our wonderful scenery used as a backdrop for photo shoots but also to show off our fabulous quality West Country food.’ The special menu included crab pasties, traditional afternoon tea, sandwiches and Hive home-made scones with Dorset clotted cream.


A Taste of the Past in the Present Dorset family brewers Hall & Woodhouse, will be selling its traditional classic English country ale, Badger Original through Asda and the Co-op. Badger Original is craft brewed for a malty flavour with subtle fruit notes and benefits from a low ABV of 3.8%. The beer is the ideal accompaniment to English stews and pies.

Using as inspiration the first Badger ale which was supplied to farm workers in the 1700’s and later to the army in the Napoleonic Wars; Original is a premium adaptation of the famous draught Badger Best Bitter, benefiting richly from the experience of generations of Head Brewers from those times to today.

e a t I n g o u t

Advertising Feature

•DeliciousRegionalItalianCuisine

•FamilyRunItalianRestaurant

•FreshFishandSeafood

•DailyBlackboardSpecials

•LunchTimeMenus

•LargeBarArea

•PrivateParties&FunctionsCateredFor

LaRistorante Italiano

Strada

01202 558902LaStrada,20bExeterRoad,Bournemouth

2MinsFromTheBIC&TownCentrewww.italianlastrada.co.uk

Great Atmosphere ~

Delicious Food

La StradaA little piece of Italy can be found at La Strada and is well worth a visit. Being Bournemouth’s largest Italian restaurant with lovely decor and an enchanting atmosphere, it is not hard to see why the restaurant is busy most evenings!

La Strada is an ideal venue for business lunches and also perfectly placed for pre-show meals as it is located right by the Bournemouth International Centre.

Contact La Strada on 01202 558902.

The TROUVILLE Hotel

Le Café BarThemed Nights

e: [email protected] www.trouvillehotel.com

Priory Road, Bournemouth BH2 5DH

Now Running on Thursday Nights in Le Café bar, where you can enjoy a different culinary experience every week with your favourite dishes from around the World including Spain, Portugal, Poland, China, Italy and India along with many more.Each week a different dish from the chosen Country will be offered along with Le Café Bar’s Menu offering an extensive selection of dishes to suit all tastes.

To check availability to avoid disappointment or to check which meal experience is running on the

Thursday Night please contact us on

01202 552262

Saving you time and money

01202 479999 www.time-business.co.uk

Printers Faxes Scanners Multifunctional Software

techno times

sponsored by:

A Competitive EdgeSoftware Matters, the Gillingham-based software solutions company is offering one lucky business the chance to win £500 worth of software development services.

Expansion for Telecoms OperationFerndown telecoms firm Poseidon Telecommunication Services Ltd, has seen its geographic area increase by 60% creating an extra six jobs.

Poseidon, the BT Local Business representative, is based at 17 Cobham Road and has benefited from the closure of the BT office in Taunton. Until now, Poseidon could only operate within the BH postcode area including Salisbury but has since gained the DT and SP region giving it complete Dorset coverage together with South Wiltshire and West Hampshire.

Radikls.com to the Rescue

David Hamer

Online Trading Webinar!With online sales continuing to grow and trading online proving an important part of Business in 2009, Dorset Business (the Chamber of Commerce & Industry) along with Venda (eCommerce solutions) are hosting an online seminar. Join the webinar and learn about the benefits of trading online and what the best practises are. The webinar will cover: b How easy it is to get started - during the workshop a demonstration site will be

builtb Setting up online payments and the benefits of PayPal b Selling on a website and also on eBay. b Online communities and how they can drive business. b An open Q&A session to get your specific questions answered.

The free webinar will take place on Thursday 24th September at 2pm.Reserve your webinar seat now at www2.gotomeeting.com/register/854901362 For more information contact Sylvie at Dorset Business on 01202 714805.

Urban Reef Gets ‘Eco’ Grilling To help address the issue of climate change and its threat to the environment, owner of the funky and informal, Urban Reef bar, café, deli and restaurant, Mark Cribb, commissioned interior architecture and design agency, Macaulay Sinclair, and one of the UK’s leading specialists in catering solutions, Space Catering, to ensure his venue is as ‘green’ as possible.

Mark Cribb said, ‘The consequences of global warming are severe and there are so many signs of it already with increased flooding, warmer summers and wetter winters. People always seem to think it’s someone else’s problem, but it’s not. I chose to work with both Macaulay Sinclair and Space Catering as they came up with a range of solutions to ensure Urban Reef is as environmentally friendly as possible. I have also made the choice

to work with a power supplier that guarantees 40% of its power comes from wind energy and have taken steps to ensure that we don’t burn any gas inside the building, which means we don’t burn any of this valuable fossil fuel. I’m also sourcing as much produce as possible locally to reduce food miles and petrol consumption.’

Mark continued, ‘This option has not been the cheapest one to implement, but this greener approach to business can lead to savings in other areas such as reduced running costs and lower energy bills. I hope that people will enjoy paying a visit to a venue that is doing its bit for the environment.’

Urban Reef hosts 200 covers and is set over two floors with a mezzanine layer on the second floor and a sun deck on the promenade.

Visit Mark and the ‘Urban team’ at Urban Reef Restaurant Ltd, Undercliff Drive, Boscombe Promenade, Bournemouth.

Visit www.software-matters.co.uk/competition.asp

Radikls, under the trading name of Dorset Web Ltd, has recently acquired another internet business. Based in Brighton the business, which has 60 clients, has helped increase Dorset Web’s turnover by around £30k per annum. This also follows the successful acquisition last year of Surrey-based Perfect Page.

‘We now deal with businesses from Lyme Regis to New Milton and north of Salisbury,’ said Poseidon Managing Director David Hamer. ‘Our geographic area has expanded by 60%.’ As a result, the business will see turnover increase by 50% this year. Generating a 20% net profit – when overheads and interest have been taken into account. In order to cope with the increased demand, the business which operates from a 1300 sq ft site has also taken over a new 700 sq ft premises next door.

‘I am looking to recruit six more staff,’ said Mr Hamer who explained that these roles are for business consultants

who advise firms on their IT, telecoms and office networks. While there are ‘hundreds if not thousands of competitors’ in the IT and communications industry, the recession is benefiting Poseidon. Mr Hamer explained that struggling competitors have resulted in new business for BT. ‘Businesses are totally reliant on the broadband and telecommunications and increasingly want a strong supplier as they cannot afford to lose a vital lifeline. BT is stable and long established.’

Poseidon currently employs 14 people and has recruited five new staff in the last two months alone.


Demand Increases Hire FleetAbacus the Dorset-based Motorhome hire company has added two new motorhomes to its fleet to meet the higher than anticipated demand for motorhome holidays. Dave Wolfenden, Managing Director of Abacus, realised that enquiries were 35% up as early as January but decided to hold from increasing his fleet of new, fully equipped 2-6 birth vehicles to 20 until the interest turned into firm bookings. The new Swift 4 birth 680FB Voyager low line vehicles required an investment of £86,000.

transport news

First Volvo 9700s for ExcelsiorExcelsior Coaches has recently taken delivery of four Volvo 9700 Prestige Plus tri-axle coaches – the first Volvo 9700s for the Bournemouth-based operator.

Longstanding Volvo customers, Excelsior’s reason for opting for the 9700 this time was simple: ‘They are superb vehicles delivering top of the range in terms of style and comfort,’ said Managing Director, Kathy Tilbury. ‘We feel they really meet the needs of our business by delivering exactly what clients expect from Excelsior.’

The 13m Volvo 9700 Prestige Plus is specified with the popular and fuel efficient

12 litre DH12E engine – rated at 460bhp - coupled to the I-Shift gearbox. Enhanced safety features fitted as standard include Front Underrun Protection System (FUPS), Front Impact Protection System (FIPS), Knee Impact Protection System (KIPS), the new generation of Electronic Braking System, Volvo’s Electronic Stability Program and 11 camera CCTV system as well as Pin Pointers Telematics, providng vehicle tracking and driver performance data.

The UK’s 9700 ‘Prestige Plus’ model boasts an all-inclusive, high specification. The stylish interior, with theatre-style flooring ensures that all 53 passengers have excellent viewing, while the comfortable seats, climate control, servery, toilet and Volvo Sound & Vision entertainment system - comprising CD, DVD player and TFT monitors - mean that every luxury is guaranteed.

Equal priority is given to driver comfort with an ergonomic driver’s area which provides excellent overview and enhanced control. The instruments are easy to monitor, controls are all logically positioned whilst large window areas and rear-vision mirrors, with integrated wide-angle mirrors, provide excellent visibility throughout.

The new vehicles will be used for high end contract work and business to business private hire. Their addition to the fleet brings the total number of full size coaches to 27, of which 25 are Volvo. Excelsior has seen its fleet grown by 50% over the past two years.

L-r: Kathy Tilbury, Managing Director of Excelsior Coaches & John Dover, Volvo Bus & Coach, Account Manager

Not all coach operators are the same...Excelsior provides a modern comfortable and safe coach fl eet at very competitive prices and are demonstrably the

highest quality service providers in the region.

‘The highest quality service providers in the region’

✓ Corporate Events

✓ Scheduled Services

✓ Social Events

✓ Coach Tours

✓ Contract Hire

✓ Staff Transportation

✓ Up to 53 Seater

✓ Air Conditioned Executive Fleet

✓ Seat Belts Fitted

Excelsior can provide the following;

www.excelsior-coaches.com

Excelsior Coaches LimitedCentral Business Park, Bournemouth, Dorset BH1 3SJ

tel 01202 652222 local call 0845 608 8488 fax 01202 652223email [email protected]

- Confederation of Passenger Transport, Coach Marque Accredited

Rental Negotiator Tom Wolfenden

A Flying Start with Poole AudiPoole Audi helped to add a touch of distinction to a recent photo shoot, after being approached by Bournemouth-based company Executive Flight Solutions (EFS).

EFS, a specialist company that provides a high-end travel concierge service, including private jet hire from Bournemouth Airport, has linked up with Poole Audi for a promotional photo shoot.

The photographs had to exude distinction, style and luxury consequently, Poole Audi provided an A5 cabriolet to add a touch of class to the images.

Speed Warning Mobile I T Solutions is sending out free ‘dashboard’ information stickers warning commercial vehicle drivers of the national speed limit for their vehicles.

Director Lee Riggs said, ‘We recently had a Dorset-based client lose a valued member of staff due to points totting up on his licence and a subsequent 12 month ban, when he was finally convicted for doing 69mph in a “Transit” van on a dual carriageway.’

Ringwood-based Mobile I T Solutions can enable you to manage, monitor and control the cost, location, speed and driving style of all your vehicles using TomTom WORK connected navigation and tracking from as little as 32 pence per day per vehicle, or £9.90 per month per vehicle.

To receive your free stickers or for a free demonstration of TomTom WORK, call 01425 477007.


A 14% Benefit-in-Kind rAting. So low you cAn tAKe the tAxmAn for A ride.

rx 450h prices start from £41,600 otr. model shown is rx 450h Se-l Premier priced at £56,085 including optional metallic paint at £580. Prices correct at time of going to print and include VAt, delivery, number plates, full tank of fuel, one year’s road fund license and £55 first registration fee. certain components within the hybrid drive system have a five-year or 60000 mile warranty, whichever comes first.

rx 450h fuel consumption figures: urban 42.8 mpg (6.6 l/100km), extra-urban 47.1 mpg (6.0 l/100km), combined 44.8 mpg (6.3 l/100km). co2 emissions combined 148g/km.

the new full hybrid rx 450h delivers a breakthrough 299 din horsepower, with 148g/km co2 emissions thanks to the advanced full hybrid system which switches seamlessly between electric and petrol power. the electric motors work in tandem with the 3.5 litre V6 engine to deliver maximum efficiency and performance. together with a luxurious interior with sophisticated remote touch technology, this makes the new rx 450h a car to be desired by everyone, even the taxman.

For more information or to arrange a test drive call Lexus Poole on 0800 811 9632.Patrick House, West Quay Road, BH15 1JF www.lexus.co.uk/poole

299 din hp 148g/km co2 44.8 mpg

WELCOME TO FORWARD LIVING

the new full hyBrid rx 450h

‘Westover is the only motoring Group in the area to offer such a wide variety of new and used-approved top brand vehicles,’ says Paul Collins, Westover Group Director. ‘We’re able to offer a one-stop shop for drivers seeking an unmatchable motoring experience and we sell something to meet every need – whether that’s a premium “car with a conscience” (like a hybrid Lexus), a luxurious but robust off-roader, or a Jaguar, which combines contemporary design with intuitive technology. The cars on show at our flagship showrooms make for an impressive display. They really are worth a look!’

Anyone interested in taking a sneak preview of the Discovery 4, the new 2010 Range Rover and Range Rover Sport, can do so over the coming months when they arrive at Westover Land Rover, Christchurch. To celebrate the arrival of these ‘next generation’ models – which combine new styling with the latest in design and engineering techniques - the dealership is throwing open its doors on the weekend of 5th and 6th September to enthusiasts eager to stay ahead of the game. Customers and their families, as well as those new to Westover Land Rover, are invited to come and

see the latest luxury 4x4s for themselves – there’s even the opportunity to take a ‘preview test drive’ (or book one for another day).

Each of Land Rover’s latest models combine greater power with improved fuel economy – the 3.0 litre TDV6 Discovery 4 and Range Rover Sport both bring a 29% increase in power, coupled with a 10% increase in fuel efficiency. If pure power’s top of the agenda, the new 5.0 supercharged V8 Range Rover Sport, capable of reaching 60mph in just 5.9 seconds, is also worth checking out. A similar event will be running at Westover Land Rover’s sister site, Ottons Land Rover at Old Sarum, Salisbury, on the same weekend.

Over at Westover’s West Quay Road showrooms, the all new XJ has taken its front-of-house seat at Jaguar. Delivering luxury on a new level, thanks to stunning design and innovative technology, the XJ has a high-tech cockpit like never before, featuring interior mood lighting, dual zone climate control, leather heated seats with memory function and a stunning sound system.

Next door at Lexus Poole the RX450h – a fully hybrid, all-wheel drive SUV - occupies pride of place thanks to its ability to deliver no

compromise performance levels combined with ‘small car emissions’ (comparable to those of a Ford Focus, according to Channel 4). Lexus has updated its sophisticated hybrid technology, with the RX450h capable of reaching 62 mph in 7.8 seconds but returning CO2 emissions of just 148g/km.

Each site also offers servicing and after-sales facilities, including workshops staffed with highly qualified and brand-dedicated technicians. A range of special offers and finance options are also available at each of Westover’s dealerships.

Anyone interested in checking out Westover’s range of vehicles from the comfort of their own home can do so at the Group’s ‘virtual dealership’ by visiting www.westovergroup.co.uk. The site, which is constantly improved and updated, now allows customers to search by car type – anyone seeking a used approved 4x4, saloon, hybrid, coupe or estate, for example, can see the full range available from Westover’s 13 manufacturers simply by clicking on one button (giving access to hundreds of vehicles). Applications for finance and insurance quotations can also be made quickly and easily online via Westover’s website.

Westover Group represents Abarth, Fiat, GT-R, Jaguar, Kia, Land Rover, Lexus, Lotus, Nissan, Peugeot, Renault, Skoda and Toyota. The Group operates 23 sites across Dorset, Hampshire and Wiltshire, each offering full sales, service and parts facilities. Westover also has two dedicated body care and accident management centres.

For further information visit the website at www.westovergroup.co.uk

With September’s vehicle registration plate change fast approaching, things are busy at each of Westover’s 23 sites across the region – but at three of the Group’s most prestigious dealerships exciting product launches are creating an additional buzz. Operating 13 different marques across the region, the Westover Group - the region’s largest independent motoring company - sells an impressive and unrivalled range of top-end vehicles from its Jaguar, Lexus and Land Rover sites in Poole and Christchurch.

transport news

Westover’s Prestige Brands Celebrate New Launches

Lexus RX450h at Lexus Poole

Discovery 4 at Westover Land Rover and Ottons Land Rover

All new Jaguar XJ at Westover Jaguar Poole


0800 811 9764

From fi rst glance, you know that Jaguar has created a new icon of

sporting luxury. Coupé-like lines and panoramic glass roof enclose a

spacious and luxurious fi ve-seat cabin, equipped with the latest intuitive

Jaguar iTech technologies. The aerospace-derived aluminium bodyshell

and choice of 3.0-litre V6 diesel or 5.0-litre V8 petrol engines combine

to deliver astonishing performance and effi ciency. Discover the new icon:

contact us today.

WESTOVER POOLE

Westover House, West Quay Road, Poole BH15 1JF

www.westover.poole.jaguar.co.uk

FUEL CONSUMPTION FIGURES FOR JAGUAR XJ RANGE: MPG (L/100KM): URBAN 15.4 (18.3) – 29.6 (9.6). EXTRA URBAN 32.5 (8.7) – 50.0 (5.6). COMBINED 23.4 (12.1) – 40.1 (7.0). CO2 EMISSIONS 184 – 289 G/KM.

N E W X J . N E W B E N C H M A R K .

T H E I C O N R E I M A G I N E D

A4P_XJ10MY Benchmark_Mag_Westover.indd 1 19/08/2009 10:07

transport news

www.poolemarine.co.uk

Poole Marine ServicesMariner Leisure Complex, West Quay Road Poole, Dorset BH15 1HX

[email protected] www.poolemarine.co.uk

OR VISIT:

Genuine spares & parts available by mail order. Visit our website www.poolemarine.co.uk

01202 679577/677387TEL:

from

£15,995Package includes; Harbour Rat, Honda

50hp engine & trailer. Demos available

PACKAGEPRICES

Open day boatAvailable with choice ofHonda outboard engines. HARBOUR RAT

1518 PMS_BTrader:137.5x102 19/3/09 17:06 Page 1

• International Removals• Pet Relocation• Domestic and International Couriers• Freight Forwarder• Storage & Warehousing• Full Packing Service• Department for transport approved

aviation Security Validation assessment

“On time, On cost, and to your Total Satisfaction” Contact us now - you’ll profit from the experience!

t. Lewisham LtdPO Box 5391, Ebblake Industrial Estate, VERWOOD, UK, BH31 6ZX

Tel: 01725 517066 • Mobile: 07980 382049 • Skype: transworldgb • Fax: 08717301941Email: [email protected] • www.transworldgb.com

INTERNATIONAL FREIGHT FORWARDING, SHIPPING AND HAULAGE / COURIERS

T. Lewisham is a fiercely independent international freight forwarder and haulage courier company, offering an enormous range of International Air Freight, Shipping and Road Movement and Forwarding Services around the world.

Our knowledge and experience, gained over 35 years in international freight forwarding, has enabled us to stay at the forefront of the specialized haulage / courier and shipping industry.

The PSP Southampton Boat Show, in association with ITV Meridian, will return to Mayflower Park this September for a record breaking celebration of nautical life.

The UK’s leading outdoor social event showcasing boating, watersports and lifestyle will run from 11th–20th September. Whether you’re an experienced sailor or just keen to learn the ropes, everyone can enjoy boating at the show.

Almost 1,000 boats and 500 exhibitors will be on display throughout the 10-day marine extravaganza. Taking ‘Record Breakers’ as its theme, the show will aim to break a number of ambitious world records. Record attempts will

range from the nautical to the non-traditional, but all efforts will invite show visitors to participate. National Boat Shows is also delighted to announce the return of the Jubilee Sailing Trust’s tall ship Lord

Nelson. Visitors to the show will have the chance to step aboard and experience life on this traditional working tall ship.

Ticket OfferNational Boat Shows is offering readers of ‘The Business’ magazine, £5 off of each ticket purchased (full ticket price £18). This offer is available by logging onto the show’s website at www.southamptonboatshow.com, quoting P35, or by calling the ticket hotline on 0844 209 0333. For added value, two children aged 15 and under will be admitted free for every adult ticket purchased. Offer excludes Public Preview Day on 11th September.

Seward Success Creates Room at the Top

A new post of chief executive has been created by Seward to drive forward its plans for the future.

He may have handed over the keys of ‘chief exec’ to Vince Courtney, but Seward Managing Director John Saunders says its ‘business as usual’ at the major dealership.

He says the move will give them better focus on their

individual roles - Mr Courtney concentrating on operational matters, leaving Mr Saunders to oversee the nuts and bolts running of the multi-million pound concern.

New Winter Sun Destinations from Bournemouth AirportRyanair, Europe’s largest low fares airline, has announced that it will open three new winter sun routes from Bournemouth Airport. Ryanair’s three new routes from Bournemouth to Arrecife (Lanzarote), Las Palmas (Gran Canaria) and Tenerife South start in October for the winter season.

Vince Courtney and John Saunders

Tax on Parking Spaces The Forum of Private Business (FPB) said it was ‘furious’ over the introduction of a ‘scandalous’ tax on businesses’ own parking spaces. The FPB made the comments in reaction to the announcement that a Workplace Parking Levy (WPL) would be introduced in Nottingham. The WPL scheme, officially launched by Transport Minister Sadiq Khan, could soon see small firms being charged up to £350 for every parking space they provide for their staff.

The scheme, which is expected to net Nottingham City Council £11.3m a year, is not due to come into effect until 2012. However, the FPB is extremely concerned that the announcement will set a dangerous precedent and encourage other local authorities to introduce the tax in their areas.

Far from promoting the use of public transport and reducing pollution as the government claims, the FPB believes the WPL will simply lead to businesses either paying the tax – thereby lining the pockets of their local authority – or axing their parking provisions. This, the FPB believes, will lead to workers parking on streets and in residential areas, causing congestion and conflict with residents.

The FPB argued that smaller firms would be disproportionately burdened by the tax, which will impose a flat rate on all businesses with 11 or more parking spaces.

Business Link Revs Up Services Businesslink.gov.uk has introduced a dedicated area for those with road transport and logistics operations in association with Department for Transport and its Executive Agencies VOSA, DVLA, VCA and DSA.

Focusing initially on businesses with HGV operations, passenger vehicles and MOT testing stations, these businesses will be able to keep up to date with regulations as well as apply for licenses, taxes and permits.

Visit www.businesslink.gov.uk/transport

Princess Unveils New ModelsPrincess Yachts International will be unveiling two new models at the PSP Southampton Boat Show, the V78 and the 78 Motor Yacht. Additionally, the Princess V85 will be making her Southampton début and the V62, revealed at last year’s show, will make a return visit.

Jeanneau to Display Eight New ModelsThis September, Jeanneau will be launching an impressive 15 new products, with eight of these being seen for the very first time world-wide at the PSP Southampton Boat Show.With five new motor boats being brought to the show by Walton Marine alongside three new sailing boats from Sea Ventures, the Jeanneau stand will certainly be the place to see new products.

Award Winning Boating StarA Southampton man who runs a business that provides an alternative to owning a boat has outperformed thousands of entrepreneurs to reach the Semi-Finalist phase of the 2009 HSBC Start-Up Stars Awards.John Mallows, who started myBoatshare.com, is now hoping to scoop the top title and a cheque for £25,000, courtesy of HSBC. The overall Winner will be revealed at a black-tie gala dinner at London’s InterContinental Hotel on 23rd November.

Phot

o co

urte

sy o

f onE

ditio

n


Seminars for Design ProfessionalsDorchester-based specialist lighting designer John Bullock, from John Bullock Lighting Design, is hosting a series of one-day seminars at Burraton House in Poundbury. The seminars will cover a variety of topics, some of which are geared towards those that have no previous experience, as well as those who have some knowledge of lighting and design but are keen to learn more.

The seminars, which start with ‘The basics of architectural lighting design’ on 25th September, cost £150 plus VAT for a full days expertise. For more information visit www.jb-ld.co.uk

network news

radiklsCall us on Freephone 0800 068 058 9 or

email on [email protected]

4 a www with a future

Is your business suffering from cash flow difficulties? If so, one increasingly popular solution to the problem ofmaintaining cash flow is invoice finance, which includesboth factoring and invoice discounting. Invoice finance isused by more than forty thousand British businesses withcombined outstanding advances in excess of ten billion pounds.Mark Liddle, Tenon Recovery

30 Christchurch Road, Bournemouth BH1 3PDTel: 01202 554456 E-mail: [email protected] www.tenongroup.com

2870.qxd:2870 17/6/09 16:21 Page 1

If your event is free of charge, send details to [email protected]

networking clubsAmbassadors, Salisbury 0845 4500 581 Edward ThomasAndover Breakfast Club 01722 424424 Caroline SkuttBartercard Breakfast Meeting 0870 8015 600BMC Bourne Marketing Club 0845 6380 721 Karen JohnsonBNI Breakfast Clubs www.bni-europe.com/uk/Bournemouth Creatives 01202 419564 Elanor McBayBournemouth Business Breakfast Club www.bournemouthbreakfastclub.co.ukB’mouth Business Ladies Lunch Club 01425 472354 Jackie FletcherBRE, Breakfast Meeting 01258 820547 Richard KingB2i 01425 480631 Shirley ThompsonBusiness Network Club 01202 205282 Marion DaviesBusinessXchange 01305 837063 Laura McHarrieCoast 2 Coast Networking Club 01590 681676 Tina Quincey Cottonwood Speakers Meeting 01425 480631 Shirley ThompsonDorset Business Networking Lunches 01202 714805 Sylvie CostantiniDorset Christian Business Fellowship www.dcbf.orgDorset Junior Chamber 01425 477281 Katie WilsonDorset Music Forum www.dorsetmusic.comFSB Wessex Networking Club 01425 280080 Marie BradyForum Business Club 01747 821761 Val Pothecary4Networking Clubs www.4networking.bizHK Business Club 01305 251007 Barry WhiteJust Networking Breakfast Club 02380 283452 Rob DewingLloyds TSB/Weymouth & Portland 07921 548583 Anna-Maria GeareChamber Breakfast ClubMazars Business Club 01202 680777 Sandra WaringPeacock Business Networking Club 07545 806531 Janet PeacockPoole Business Women’s Lunch Club 01202 674488 Tracey WoodSalisbury Business Breakfast Club 01722 424424 Caroline SkuttSmith & Williamson Breakfast Club 01722 434880 Pamela SlaterThe Carrington Club [email protected] Jonathan RoseWallisdown Business Club 01202 519761 Debbie CorbinWeymouth Womens Network Group 01305 755606 Karenlee KnottWomen in Business (Xch) 01202 491752 Laura Martin

september5th-6th Preview of Discovery 4 Free Westover Land Rover, www.westovergroup.co.uk Christchurch9th Pub Quiz at Spyglass & Kettle AFC Singles That Mingle 07810 544326 Alison Malaki10th & Question Time Event AFC Federation of Small Businesses11th 01425 28008017th Lunch Club AFC Poole Business Women 01202 674488 Tracey Wood18th Country & Western goes Hollywood £40 Carrington Club [email protected] Skittles Night at Langton Arms AFC Singles That Mingle 07810 544326 Alison Malaki22nd Breakfast Event £12 Dorset Women in Business 01202 65676222nd South Wiltshire Business EXPO Free [email protected] Networking Event £10 AQ Networking 02392 343772 Laura Swetman24th Online Trading Webinar Free Dorset Business 01202 714805 Sylvie25th Visit to Cherbourg £20/£30 Business Breakfast Club www.bournemouthbreakfastclub.co.uk/cherbourg.htm29th Prepare for Recovery Free Bonallack & Bishop Solicitors 01722 424424 Caroline Skutt29th Bournemouth Coaching Support Group AFC www.coaching-support.com Clive Dupont30th Control Web Use - Seminar Free Taylor Made 01329 29390030th Black Rock Grill at Village Hotel AFC Singles That Mingle 07810 544326 Alison Malaki30th Make Art Your Business Free Arts & Business [email protected]

october2nd Autumn Masquerade Ball Free/£55 DJC [email protected] The Pash Bash £10/£15 The Passionate PA www.thepashbash.co.uk

AFC = Apply for costs

business events

Businesses Given Opportunity to Quiz MPsWhilst no one knows the date of the next General Election the one certainty is that it is less than a year away. The Federation of Small Businesses (FSB) is giving small businesses an opportunity to hear the plans and policies of the main political parties at two Question Time events. Featuring local MPs there are two sessions taking place, the first at the Carlton Hotel, Bournemouth on Thursday 10th September and the second at the Novotel Hotel, Southampton on Friday 11th September, both starting at 7pm.

FSB’s Wessex Regional Chairman, Ken Moon, said, ‘We urge our members to book their places now. These evenings will provide a rare opportunity to question local MPs from the three main political parties on any relevant subject, but perhaps with a slight bias towards the current economic situation and the forthcoming election.’

Contact the FSB Regional Office on 01425 280080.

John Bullock

Workshops on the Crest of a WaveA top chocolatier from Bournemouth is on the crest of a wave after being asked by P&O Cruises to host his hugely popular chocolate workshops on board superliner, Oriana.

Enterprising Gerry Wilton from Chocolate Delight, who owns and runs the country’s only chocolate themed hotel, recently took to the high seas to teach P&O Cruises’ passengers the indulgent culinary art of Belgian truffle making on board an 18 night cruise to Greenland and the Fjords. And he’s hoping to experience the sweet taste of success with his Chocolate Delight workshops at sea, which could prove to be the first of many he will hold on cruise liners.

To find out more about Gerry’s Chocolate Delight Workshops, visit www.choclatedelight.co.uk

Sandbanks Prepares for Extreme Action Animal Windfest 2009 comes to Sandbanks beach, Poole, from 11th – 13th September. The free beach-based extreme sports event will see thousands flock to the south coast to see some of the world’s top watersports athletes in action. Entry to Windfest during the daytime will be free while entry into individual events will be priced according to event and ability. To book tickets for Friday’s Butterfly Ball and Saturday’s Windfest Party, go to www.animalwindfest.co.uk

New Business Group Provides Platform for EntrepreneursA new business group which will give entrepreneurs a platform to share experiences and ideas has been launched in Dorset.

Magus aims to attract up to 100 owner directors who will meet every month in 15-strong groups in what is described as a trusted and

confidential environment.Members will share

their challenges, opportunities and issues with a group facilitator arranging the agenda and chairing the meeting.

Dorset law firm Ellis Jones Solicitors sponsored the group’s launch which was held in Bournemouth.

Magus is the brainchild of Sue Baker, of Clarity Business Financials and John Cardwell, of Mayfield Management

Consultancy. Both have many years experience of running entrepreneur support groups.

‘We believe there is a clear demand for an initiative like Magus. Entrepreneurs often learn best from practical experience rather than just listening in traditional training environments,’ said Sue.

John said Magus would provide a “stimulating hub” for local entrepreneurs. ‘We see it as offering peer group interaction, support and development in a flexible and business-focused format. Effectively putting our collective heads together,’ he added.

Nigel Smith, Managing Partner of Ellis Jones Solicitors, said, ‘Magus is an exciting new initiative and we’re delighted to be playing a leading part in its launch.’

Sue Baker and (right) John Cardwell of Magus with launch sponsor Nigel Smith, Ellis Jones’ Managing Partner.

Poetic PowerThe Bournemouth Literary Festival returns 12th–17th October 2009.

Enjoy an entertaining evening of comedy, improvisation, music, magic, poetry and everything in-between, with the effervescent quintet of: Keith Bennett, Peter John Cooper, Paul Hyland, John Kay and Mario Reading. These five dynamite poets collectively have over 125 years of writing and performing poetry throughout the UK.

Book an evening of poetic power at the Winchester Pub, 39 Poole Hill, Bournemouth on Saturday 17th October from 5.30-7pm Ticket price is £3 and includes one drink.

To book tickets call Lillian Avon on 01202 417535. For more event details, visit www.bournemouthliteraryfestival.co.uk

Peter John Cooper

The Pash BashSarah Howells (aka Pash), from The Passionate PA, found out she had breast cancer in June 2009. Undergoing chemo and ‘looking forward’ to a mastectomy later this year, her positive mental attitude automatically kicked in and led her to arrange a charity extravaganza in aid of her chosen charity, Tenovus.

The Pash Bash is to be held at Key West on The Pier in Bournemouth on 10th October.

Planning is well underway and it’s guaranteed there will be drinking,

dancing and cavorting as well as a huge variety of entertainment plus a charity auction and a charity raffle.

Sarah is still looking for extra support, so if you want to be involved, get in touch via www.thepassionatepa.co.uk.

‘We need: sponsors, donations for the raffle, donations for the auction and entertainers,’ says Sarah. ‘Most of all, we need you.’

This event is expected to be a sell-out so book your tickets now. There will be many local and national business people to network with, friends old and new, bring friends, bring family, bring random strangers ... just be there!

Ticket price is £10 before 1st October or £15 on the night (subject to availability).

Bookviawww.thepashbash.co.uk

Sarah Howells


Through the doom and gloom of the economic situation a ray of sunlight has shone upon this magnificent development of nine luxury apartments at West Point, 3 Westminster Road within the Branksome Park area of Poole. The development has recently been completed by Acheson Construction Ltd for The Harrison Group and sales are booming. The apartments were only recently completed and are all sold or reserved.

The success of the development is as a result of its quiet location near to the sea, high quality build and design and imaginative landscaping. The apartments are also very spacious with high quality fittings.

‘We were extremely pleased to be entrusted to carry out the construction of this prestigious building on behalf of The Harrison Group and this is the second development we have completed for them,’ commented Director Mr Rob Acheson. The Harrison Group specialises in high quality residential developments throughout the Poole / Bournemouth conurbation and the Branksome Park development is a typical example of their work.

Acheson was established in 1974 and is now one of the leading building contractors in the south west with a current turnover of £10m per annum.

‘We undertake all types of construction work throughout all sectors which includes medical centers, education establishments, sports pavilions, as well as residential, commercial and industrial projects,’ added Mr Acheson.

Acheson has recently carried out a considerable amount of high class residential development within Poole and Bournemouth and quality seems to be the ‘name of the game’ with the company.

property & development

GARAGEMASTER

Garage Door Specialists Gate Automation Professionals

Est. 30 years

Tel: 01202 666133 Fax: 01202 668497

E-mail: [email protected] Website: www.garagemaster.co.uk

Southern Timber Frame

Design, manufacture and erect of all quality timber frame housing, flats and commercial buildings,

for more information please call 023 8029 3062 or email [email protected]

An experienced service from design to completion

Your Partner in High Quality Construction

AchesonConstructionLimited2a Railway Triangle Industrial Estate,

Dorchester, Dorset, DT1 2PJTel: 01305 267938 Fax: 01305 251301

www.achesonconstruction.com

New Development Bucking the Trend

Fineline Fabrications LtdUnit 8, Holes Bay Park, Sterte Avenue West, Poole, Dorset BH15 2AA

Tel: 01202 669 026 Fax: 05601 267 505

“”

We are pleased to have worked with Acheson Construction on the apartments at West Point.

Top of the Class Henderson Green is going from strength to strength in 2009 after winning three new projects with clients in the education sector.

The engineering consultancy, which is at the forefront of sustainable building design, has secured the local contracts at Winchester College, St Anne’s Catholic School and Southampton Solent University.

Winchester College has brought the firm on board to undertake a modernisation programme of its students’ boarding houses over the next few years and work has now begun on Du Boulay’s House with architect Stephens Cox. This is the second of two schemes Henderson Green has carried out for the college.

New Contracts for KiwiKiwi Design is a proven specialist in schools refurbishment and the fit-out and refurbishment of universities, colleges, and other educational premises, focusing primarily on Dorset, Wiltshire, and Hampshire.

New contracts worth in excess of £200,000 have been won during recent weeks including Twyford School in Christchurch and St Joseph’s in Parkstone, as well as over 20 additional and varied jobs for Bournemouth University at Poole House, Studland House, Christchurch House and Bournemouth House.

To support this area of work Kiwi has launched a new website.Visit www.SchoolsRefurbishment.co.uk

Southampton school refurbishment

Market Maybe on the MoveLess than a year after launch, commercial property consultants at Bartle Pye have expanded into town centre premises – and are predicting livelier times to come in the business property market.

The firm has moved from The Grove industrial estate in Dorchester to a newly-refurbished

building at High West Street.Bartle Pye was set up in September last year by Matthew Pye and Jan

Merriott, undeterred by the fact that they were launching in the depths of recession.

Initially the company dealt purely with the selling and leasing of business property, but has now extended its professional department to encompass services such as valuation, rent review, rating and building advice.

Says Jan, ‘Some people might have been surprised that we were prepared to set up the business in a downturn, but we were confident that with the right formula we could make things work.

‘We had been involved in a fair share of the developments in the area in recent years before we set up Bartle Pye, and we were convinced that there was an opportunity in the area for a really focused and locally-based commercial property consultancy.

‘It is not rocket science but it is quite technical and demanding on your time. All our experience since we launched Bartle Pye suggests that our business plan was right.’

Commercial property, says Jan Merriott, is like an iceberg: a substantial amount of what is going on tends not to be visible at all.

He adds, ‘Publicity about a deal may be the last thing that anyone wants, so larger transactions are often brokered in confidence.

‘But what we are seeing now convinces us that there will be plenty of life in the market in the times to come.’

L-r: Philip Rockford, Manager of Ringwood office; Matthew Pye and Jan Merriott

E³Consultingsetsoutthetax benefits of putting the demolitionballtowork;whilstavoidingdemolitionofyourprofessionalreputation!The Finance Act 2009 was enacted on 21st July and amongst other measures expands the scope of land remediation tax relief into long-term derelict land. For qualifying sites, the extra costs associated with bringing the land back into economic use, whether in remediating contaminated or derelict land (i.e. putting the ‘demolition ball’ through legacy structures), may now attract additional relief at up to 150% of the eligible expenditure. Additionally, in recent months we have had more enquiries from lawyers seeking support on professional negligence litigation; where clients are seeking to recover the value of tax savings overlooked (or sometimes lost!) through poor advice on capital allowances and land remediation tax relief. Under-claiming any potential tax savings in the current economic climate could be catastrophic for some businesses, including those advisers not prepared to seek specialist support! Small beer? … Not always! Many of the projects we win are through identifying additional tax savings not previously claimed. One recent client has just obtained a £90,000 rebate on additional relief in excess of £500,000!

Dereliction of Duty!Are your advisers on the ball?

Alun Oliver, Managing Director, E3 Consulting

To optimise your property tax savings contact E³ Consulting on [email protected] or 0845 230 6450.

Grounds for OptimismHopes that the battered housing market may finally be undergoing a revival have been supported by a well-known Bournemouth builder.

Terry Fox, Chairman of Fox Homes, said his company had staged an open weekend for two newly built houses and a bungalow which had resulted in 17 viewings and three offers.

‘We are seeing a lot more activity and this is the evidence. The market has been very tough but there are definite grounds for optimism,’ he said.

‘The biggest difficulty at the moment is getting good quality development land which is not over-priced.’

Bankers to Fox Homes include major Swedish bank Handelsbanken which provides funding for the company’s developments.


salisbury & downton

Contact Andrew Hodder or Stephen Kenmir

[email protected] or [email protected]

Whitehead Vizard are committed professionalsoffering specialised, practical and personal legalsolutions to Commercial clients.

�Commercial Property�Dispute Resolution�Landlord & Tenant�Mergers & Acquisitions

�Employment Law�Liquor Licensing�Mediation�Planning Law

Commercial Client Practice

www.whitehead-vizard.co.uk

Call: 01722 412141

Whitehead Vizard Solicitors, Close Gate Chambers,60 High Street, Salisbury, Wiltshire SP1 2PQ

A modern law practice with a flair for commercial andcompany legal work. We understand the pressures whichdrive successful businesses in the 21st Century.

Whitehead Vizard - for allyour Business Law needs

manufacturing & engineering

Additional £4m Government Funding for ManufacturersThe Manufacturing Advisory Service (MAS) has received a further £4m in government funding for Advanced Manufacturing.

The funding for Advanced Manufacturing is in addition to the £4m recently announced for Low Carbon, and is expected to make a significant increase in MAS’ ability to support Manufacturers across the UK in these challenging times. This will enable MAS to provide wider support to SMEs as well as increase the transfer of advanced manufacturing capabilities into their businesses and boost competitiveness.

Visit www.mas.bis.gov.uk/south-west

Fluvial Prepares to Flood International Markets

An inventor from Bournemouth is preparing to take his patented flood protection solution to Australia and beyond thanks to support from UK Trade & Investment.

Fluvial Innovations was established by Simon Phelps in 2006 in partnership with Bournemouth University. Having studied for a Bachelor of Science in Computer Aided Product design at the university, Simon took the flood protection system he had developed as his final year product and began

to look at ways that he could produce it commercially.The invention was developed to provide an affordable solution to

allow anyone to protect their property from the financial and emotional devastation of flooding. FLOODSTOP is a direct substitute for sandbags, in terms of economic cost, but far superior in terms of assembly and function. No bolting to the ground is required as modular units are simply connected using slide-in keys, creating a flexible watertight barrier. The units also nest together to minimise storage and transport requirements. Furthermore the units can even be repurposed as traffic barriers.

Supported by a Regional Development Agency grant Simon spent the first year of business focussed on the research and development of the product. In 2007, having chosen a manufacturer to produce the product, Simon started selling FLOODSTOP to councils and to the Environment Agency all over the country. And as a result of a trade mission to Australia during May 2009, Simon is now negotiating with two Australian manufacturers and has also had confirmation that The New South Wales State Emergency Services, which are the equivalent of the Australian Environment Agency, have also signalled their intent to buy a freight load of FLOODSTOP units to trial.

Flying the Flag at Selfridges One of the UK’s most iconic department store retailers has selected a leading flag manufacturer to supply bunting for its 100th anniversary celebrations. Hampshire Flag Company was brought on board by Selfridges to produce 3,000 metres of bunting in the stores distinctive yellow branding.

New Business for China DirectCarrington Club member David Ralph of YWSChinaDirect has successfully helped fellow member, Alan Kingsland of Homegym UK to source the right factory for their franchise equipment in China. David’s Co-Director based in Shanghai set up a tour and inspection of nine potential suppliers for Alan with the objective of finding the right one that suited Homegym UK’s requirements.

Factories in China can vary dramatically in quality and size and it’s easy for westerners to get caught out unless you really know what you are doing. YWSChinaDirect’s Shanghai Director, Mike Dethick, also originally from Dorset has been based out there for seven years and now not only speaks Mandarin fluently, but understands the culture and the pitfalls. This ensures clients source easily, safely and cost effectively. YWSChinaDirect Managing Director, David Ralph said, ‘Although most clients would rather leave the factory visit to us, some clients prefer to visit the factories themselves which we are more than happy to facilitate.’

Homegym UK has been trading since 2005 and has just re-branded. They are an expanding company in the process of rolling out franchises across Great Britain and Ireland. This is a shining example of the network created within the Carrington Club leading to real business for two growing Dorset companies.

L-r: Mike Dethick with Alan Kingsland in Shanghai.

The Wessex Group

For a dynamic promotional message, shout it out with a BANNER.Create the maximum impact to promote your business or product.The banners are produced on hi-tech, hi-speed digital equipment on a variety of rigid and flexible materials for interior or exterior use. The banners are individually tailored to your needs - single items or thousands.Wessex Group offers a fully equipped design studio staffed by talented creative professionals to interpret and enhance your wishes and offer a complete service from concept through to delivery.Wessex Group is a highly competitive company ever mindful of the necessity to observe strict deadlines – every time, on time.The company is recognised as a leading manufacturer of promotional printed products in the retail and advertising sector.

Wessex Group, 20-22 Benson Rd,Nuffield Industrial Estate, Poole, BH17 0GB

01202 684685 [email protected]

Whitehead Vizard Offer Free Consultations for BusinessesSalisbury High Street solicitor Whitehead Vizard offer free half-hour consultations to businesses under the ‘Lawyers For Your Business’ scheme.

Run by The Law Society, the scheme consists of a network of solicitors offering specialist advice to small and medium sized businesses. A free half-hour initial consultation is given on a range of business related topics including taxes, contracts, finance and leases. Employment Law advice is also available.

Whitehead Vizard’s Andrew Hodder says, ‘Often, the fear of large legal bills puts companies off seeing a solicitor. However, early consultation is recommended.

‘A solicitor can help you comply with legal documents and legislation and give you sound advice. This can save you money in the long run. Early legal advice helps you avoid having to take expensive remedies at a later date when all other options may then be unavailable.

‘Stress and disruption can also be minimized. We believe prevention is always better than a cure.’

Although the initial consultation is free, it is important to clarify estimated costs at the outset, including a forecast of how costs could change if a matter proceeds.

For further information about how Andrew Hodder, David Ridley or Stephen Kenmir can help with company and commercial law issues, contact Whitehead Vizard Solicitors, Close Gate Chambers, 60 High Street, Salisbury, Wiltshire, SP1 2PQ. Tel: 01722 412141.

Andrew Hodder

Property Stock Increase for Letting AgentMartin & Co launched in Salisbury last summer and has gone from strength to strength. Bryan Greenwood franchise owner commented, ‘With Martin & Co recently winning the Best Large Letting Chain award, I am keen to ensure local landlords and tenants benefit from the high standard of service we offer. Our latest landlord campaign “Let it fast, let it free” has generated an increase in property stock and we are able to rent to quality tenants quickly.’

Martin & Co Salisbury, part of the UK-wide 170 plus letting agent network will be exhibiting at the South Wiltshire Business EXPO 2009 to be held at the Salisbury City Hall on September 22nd.

Visit them at stand T16.

Meet the Buyer in SalisburySouth Wiltshire Business EXPO happens every year in Salisbury in late September. As one of the largest events of its kind in the south west, EXPO draws in businesses from not just Wiltshire and Hampshire but from as far away as Bath, Bristol, Bournemouth and Basingstoke.

Organised by the Salisbury & District Chamber of Commerce and Industry, and this year with Business Link as co-event sponsors, EXPO is sending an important message to the business community

in that this will be a worthy and important event to attend or exhibit at.Louise Howard, President to the Salisbury &

District Chamber commented, ‘We opened selling the stand and table areas in May and were booked up three weeks later prompting us to open a new exhibiting area upstairs.’

South Wiltshire Business EXPO 2009 will also feature Salisbury’s first ever Meet the Buyer event supported by Wiltshire Council. This event gives your company an opportunity to pitch to large businesses like Wiltshire Council, Qinetiq, NHS, Wiltshire College, the Police Authority and many others all in one day.

Louise says, ‘We have secured the Procurement Directors of these large companies to sit and listen to you talk about your products and services. It’s the chamber’s way of trying to keep business local.’

The South Wiltshire Business EXPO 2009 will be held at the City Hall in Salisbury on the 22nd September 2009 from 9am until 6pm and is a free event to attend.

For further information and to pre-register your attendance e-mail [email protected]


salisbury & downton

Salisbury Museum Salisbury Museum is offering two for the price of one entry for all forces families. To obtain the discount, please present forces ID card, proof of address (if local) or a certificate of eligibility obtainable from www.forcesdiscounts-mod.co.uk

Tourism Awards Salisbury guesthouse, Cricket Field House, topped the awards recently when it picked up South Wiltshire Small Tourism Business of the Year award at the prestigious South Wiltshire Business of the Year awards ceremony. Also picking up an award was Salisbury Cathedral, winner of South Wiltshire Large Tourism Business of the Year.

Money, which represents the prose of life, and which is hardly spoken of in parlours without an apology, is in its effects and laws, as beautiful as roses.Ralph Waldo Emerson, 1803-82, US writer

www.brianjenner.com

Exciting Times at Baskerville PressA three year plan to create a dynamic design, print and marketing service organisation has just been further strengthened following investment in new digital printing technology at Baskerville Press. With financial support from the Full Colour Printers Group of Companies, and two further production centres at Warminster Press and BWW Printers at Bridgwater, the group now has a significant presence in the south west.

Salisbury-based solicitors Bonallack & Bishop continue to grow, and are delighted to welcome a new member of the Management Team. Nick Alward will be working closely with both Tim and Jane Bishop in a brand new role as the firm’s Business Development Manager.Nick has considerable senior management experience and until his recent retirement from the police, was a Chief Inspector managing policing for South Wiltshire.

Inspecting Business

Nick Alward

Keen Construction Win Solstice Park Groundworks Package

Downton-based civil engineering and building contractor Keen Construction Ltd has won the £1.8m groundwork’s package for a new dairy distribution centre at Solstice Park, Amesbury in Wiltshire – one of the largest mixed use business parks in the south.

Keen is working in collaboration with new client and principal contractor Stacey Construction to provide Robert Wiseman Dairies with a new 38,000 sq m premises consisting of around 5,000 sq m of office/warehousing, 8,000 sq m of lorry parking and 1,800 sq m of car parking.

Work is progressing at pace with completion and handover scheduled for mid to late October 2009.

Keen Construction is also working on a number of other projects at present including a residential development for Finbury Homes in nearby Dinton and a range of education sector contracts for Salisbury Diocese.

Results to Make a Noise AboutHalyard Marine Ltd, UK specialists in the reduction of noise and vibration on board boats, has announced its year end figures, revealing a 34% increase in exports from July 2008 to June 2009, and a subsequent overall increase in profit. This is set against a year which has seen an overall decrease in new boat sales worldwide.

The company, which designs and manufactures bespoke silencer systems for superyachts, leisure, sail, powerboats and commercial vessels, says that its export drive started in July 2007 with the appointment of two Senior Project Sales Managers. Their role was to increase Halyard’s sales to overseas leisure and commercial boat builders, many of whom are based in Holland, Spain and Turkey.

James Grazebrook, Managing Director says, ‘Halyard has always had a very strong home market, designing,

manufacturing and supplying bespoke systems for the UK’s leisure, superyacht and commercial vessel builders. We are unique as a company in this sector because we have a strong team of experienced designers, offering solutions to boat manufacturers. All our manufacturing is carried out in-house, enabling us to create one-off or production systems to the highest standards.’Since this re-structuring

of the sales organisation, Halyard has achieved significant project wins for boats from 18m to 80m. Initially targeting leisure boats and superyachts, much of the recent business has come from the commercial, workboat and military vessel manufacturers, which have been less affected by the worldwide economic difficulties.

Halyard was founded in 1980 and has four sites along the south coast in Salisbury, Ferndown, Hillsea and Horndean.

James Grazebrook

Rewarding Excellence

Russell Ward, Managing Director Silent Edge, winner Nick Bland Patersons HR and Payroll Solutions with team

Over 400 business leaders and guests recently attended The National Business Awards Regional Programme, sponsored by Orange, to celebrate the success of South of England’s most innovative, ethical and successful businesses.

Patersons HR and Payroll Solutions, Salisbury, was presented with The Growth Strategy of the Year Award.

Lorraine Agnew, Programme Director, The National Business Awards, said, ‘Patersons HR and Payroll Solutions showed exceptional tenacity and commitment in bringing their software for payroll and HR services to the market.’

† Compared to previous models.

RANGE OF FUEL ECONOMY FIGURES FOR THE LAND ROVER RANGE IN MPG (L/100KM): URBAN 12.5 (22.6) – 33.2 (8.5) EXTRA URBAN 26.3 (10.7) – 49.6 (5.7) COMBINED 19.0 (14.9) – 42.2 (6.7) CO2 EMISSIONS: 179 – 348 G/KM.

Westover Land Rover21 Bailey Drive, Barrack Road, Christchurch, Dorset BH23 2BN

0800 811 9766 www.westover.landrover.co.uk [email protected]

MORE LUXURY. MORE FEATURES. MORE EFFICIENCY†.The next generation of vehicles from Land Rover has even more to offer. And we’re holding a special event on September 5-6 for you to come and see them for yourself.

Call us today for more information or to book a test drive.

FREELANDER 2 DISCOVERY 4 RANGE ROVER SPORT RANGE ROVER

5-6 SEPTEMBER 2009A T W E S T O V E R L A N D R O V E R


�� BusinessThe September 2009