The Business Northumberland High Growth programme, a European-funded business support programme, which has seen Northumberland’s high growth businesses create more than 100 new jobs, is coming to an end this month.

The programme, which has been delivered across the county by coaching specialists Oxford Innovation, has also safeguarded more than 150 existing jobs and has seen participating companies increase their turnover by a combined £4.5 million.

Oxford Innovation’s work with high growth businesses formed part of the £1.35m Business Northumberland Programme which was funded by the North East European Regional Development Fund (ERDF) and was delivered on behalf of Arch, The Northumberland Development Company and Northumberland County Council.

Since April 2013, Business Northumberland has provided cost-free support to startups and established companies with growth potential.

Mike Jobson, Oxford Innovation programme manager, led the delivery of the high growth programme. He said: "We’ve had a fantastic two years working with some inspirational entrepreneurs and truly innovative businesses across Northumberland. The programme has supported a diverse portfolio of clients ranging from advanced manufacturing businesses to creative industries.

"A key factor in the successful delivery of the programme has been the collaboration between support agencies. On behalf of our clients we have worked with UK Trade & Investment, the Manufacturing Advisory Service, Growth Accelerator and a number of funding partners."

Image source: JeepersMedia

The International Trade Forum (“ITF”), a Yorkshire-based membership organisation that offers support to UK businesses and SMEs exporting and trading internationally, has named Santander Corporate & Commercial as its headline sponsor.

The ITF, which was established in 2005 by a group of highly experienced managing directors, has been acknowledged by the UK Trade & Investment and several Chambers of Commerce for its achievements in promoting international trade.

ITF aims to assist businesses through an array of different initiatives, including networking events, workshops and seminars, as well as offering advice from experts in international trade, and general news and information about how best to trade overseas and find international trading partners and suppliers.

In addition to Forum events, the ITF also now conducts trade expeditions overseas.

Santander Corporate & Commercial’s current focus is to aid UK businesses trade overseas, therefore its sponsorship of the ITF is part of a significant portfolio of programs, products and services the bank provides to UK SMEs and businesses expanding into the international market.

Jon Gillgrass, the international director of Santander, said: “We are delighted to be supporting the International Trade Forum, an important and highly effective organisation focused on such a pivotal business issue. Its ethos and drive complements Santander’s dedication to UK businesses looking to better understand the enormous benefits of exporting and trading overseas.

"We are ramping up our focus on international trade in 2015 as we see this as one of the most significant drivers of the UK economy.“

The 3M Buckley Innovation Centre (3M BIC) located in Huddersfield has developed and launched a network specifically tailored for professional service providers.  

On Thursday 26 March, the 3M BIC Professional Service Membership was officially launched at the 3M BIC at a market stall and networking event, which was attended by over 30 professional service providers and SMEs.

The Professional Services Membership was created after feedback from focus groups revealed that support businesses wanted to communicate more with SMEs to build on their existing client portfolios, and be given the chance to work alongside other professional service providers.

As well as access to over 1,000 businesses of all sizes, the membership offers a whole range of resources, including the opportunity to market your business direct to SMEs and other service providers, collaborative opportunities with the University of Huddersfield and invitations to specialist events and seminars at the 3M BIC plus the opportunity to host your own.

Furthermore, becoming a member will also provide discount off meeting and conference spaces equipped with the latest AV equipment, hot desk facilities with free Wi-Fi and access to state-of-the-art technology, for measurement, design and prototyping.

The Professional Services Membership is the fourth level in the 3M BIC’s Network Membership, which launched in 2014.  The three other levels include Digital, Solo and Corporate, and are designed to provide all types of businesses access to facilities at the 3M BIC.

Around 10 Professional Service Members exhibited at the event, which icnluded KPMG, Santander, Bailey Walsh & Co, 3volution LLP, Appleyard Lees, Business Doctors, MAS, Shark and Winning-Pitch.

Prof Liz Towns-Andrews, the ceo of 3M BIC, said: “Through focus groups we realised there was a gap for professional service providers to access SMEs. Many support businesses, especially larger corporates, don’t always get that link with smaller companies. Even more so, there are limited opportunities to collaborate with other service providers. With access to over 1,000 businesses through our other Network Membership levels and tenants, the 3M BIC’s Professional Service Membership provides a platform that enables support businesses to link with each other, but also puts them in front of start-ups and SMEs on a regular basis.”

Luke Rowbotham, relationship director at Santander Corporate Banking, added: “‘The 3M Buckley Innovation Centre’s new Professional Services Membership has great potential to bring together business owners and service providers. The meetings, that are part of the benefits of joining, will create a relaxed environment for business owners to develop local networks as well as discuss topical issues and growth plans. It’s great to see the 3M Buckley

A University of Manchester research and innovation partnership has commercially launched a graphene lightbulb.

The new lightbulb developed by Graphene Lighting plc has lower energy emissions, a longer lifetime and lower manufacturing costs.

The graphene lightbulbs, believed to be the first commercial application of graphene will be on the shelves in the next few months.

Professor Colin Bailey, deputy president and deputy vice-chancellor of The University of Manchester said: “This lightbulb shows that graphene products are becoming a reality, just a little more than a decade after it was first isolated – a very short time in scientific terms.

“This is just the start. Our partners are looking at a range of exciting applications, all of which started right here in Manchester.

“It is very exciting that the NGI has launched its first product despite barely opening its doors yet.”

Graphene business director, James Baker, said: “The graphene lightbulb is proof of how partnering with the NGI can deliver real-life products which could be used by millions of people.

“This shows how The University of Manchester is leading the way not only in world-class graphene research but in commercialisation as well.”

A domestic cleaning company is expanding its operation by opening an office in Preston as it looks to develop the business further.

The company currently employs 20 maids and is planning to employ more staff local to Preston in the coming months.

Merry Maids Blackpool and Fylde has enjoyed year on year growth and actively works with franchisor, ServiceMaster, based in Leicestershire to maximise its business opportunity.

The company is owned by Nicky Morris and her husband Steve Morris will run the new Preston office.

Steve said: “We’re excited to be opening a new office in Preston and the opportunity this will bring us to grow the business.

“With 13 years’ experience locally and a national reputation for quality domestic cleaning, we are confident of the success this investment will bring.“

Nicky said: “Steve and I have discussed the idea of him joining me in the business for a number of years and we are now at a position where we can make it happen.

“We’ve owned the franchise for the Preston area for a number of years and felt the time was right to have a base there.“

A report by Nigel Wright has highlighted a 3% increase in North East salaries in the last 12 months, however the gap between male and female salaries has increased again by 1% to 12%, well above the national average of 9.4%.

The Newcastle-based recruitment consultancy surveyed over 1,000 North East respondents working across different disciplines and levels, in sectors such as industrial and manufacturing; business support and professional services; public and third sectors; consumer; and digital and creative.

Executive salaries saw the biggest increase at 4.2% on average, followed by HR at 3.9%, according to the report.

Other disciplines’ salaries generally increased by between 2.8% and 3.2% - supply chain and procurement, in particular, is increasing in prominence in organisations, while IT salaries remained static.

The gap between male and female salaries increased again by 1% to 12%, however the report states "women often work a 3-4 working day week, or reduced hours, to account for childcare arrangements"

In terms of employee benefits, company bonuses remained static at 8%, while personal bonuses increased, on average, by 1% to 10%; although, again, fewer people received them during the last 12 months.

The report found that overall job satisfaction has declined during the last twelve months; At the executive level, however, those claiming to be ‘very satisfied’ in their job increased by 16%.

Paul Wilson, CEO at Nigel Wright, commented on the findings" “The 3% increase in North East salaries is a clear indication of the improving market conditions we’ve been experiencing in the past year. The economy is growing and companies have started rewarding people again.

"The decline in job satisfaction is an interesting figure; essentially, it means that after years of prioritising job security over career development, candidates are becoming more open to revaluating their careers and looking for better conditions elsewhere.  

"It is very much a candidate-driven market, and as confidence levels improve, candidate shortages become more widespread. The skills shortage issue is particularly prominent in the region; competition for the best people has been heightened and companies are willing to pay for the best talent.

"Finally, as more and more individuals are now using online media in their job search, it is increasingly important for businesses to invest in their employer brand and in resources that can maximise their potential for attracting the best candidates.”

The full report can be downloaded from http://ukrecruitment.nigelwright.com/

Swifty Scooters was founded by husband and wife design team, Jason and Camilla Iftakhar in Salford.

The first 20 models were hand built by Jason and sold out when they launched at London Design week and now the company has customers across the globe.

All profits are reinvested in the company into new product design and new products are launched regularly.

In 2014 turnover was £140k. In 2015 they anticipate turning over between £350k and £400k.

Swifty Scooters employ five people in total including Jason and Camilla.  

Jason and Camilla also run a design studio called Jamily Design Studio which has been the main financial support in the last four years.

HSBC have recently granted the company a small business loan which has helped the company grow.

Many investors both companies and private individuals have been interested in the company but to date the co-founders haven’t found the right partner, preferring to grow steadily and allow the brand to develop.

Jason spoke exclusively to Bdaily, he said: “Design is at the heart of the company and everything we do.

“From big decisions to small, our creative approach reinforces our brand direction and values.

“The biggest challenge we face is the classic startup challenge of growing the brand / business organically which is cash flow, particularly as we manufacture a complicated and high value product.

“To date we remain the owners of the brand and have managed to fund the business with little resources, buckets of passion, hard work but most importantly positive attitudes and open minds.

“Designing an innovative idea / product is probably the easiest and most enjoyable part of the business, In fact we have several years of new product development ready to go.

“Turning that idea into a commercial success is a whole other story. We also have excellent customer feedback, our customers just fall in love the product - this always makes each sale a pleasure.

“There’s a kids scooter coming, apparel programme and much more I can’t talk about at the moment.

“Rest assured Swifty is here to grow and scale to become a household brand name delivering innovation and the best possible products for our customers.

“We are continually growing our customer base globally, with a distribution in Canada, our most recent territory.

“We are a family business, fun, optimistic and super efficient in what we do.

“We believe in people and choose only the very best to join the team.“

Camilla said: “We are bringing a new updated collection out in September and have high expectations for the Electric scooter towards the end of the year. Our retailer and distributor list is also growing and something we are focusing on throughout 2015.

“Swifty Scooters are premium adult kick scooters and since our launch in 2011 our market has grown with several other brands following suit.

“We see this as a good thing as we focus on quality and engineering the best possible product for our customers.

“The new competition focuses on price which our customers are less concerned with. We have many customers who convert to Swifty Scooters after bad experiences with other brands.

“There are lots of consumers looking for the quality, style and reputation that Swifty Scooters offer.“

Jason wants to inspire budding entrepreneurs, and to challenge the myth that you have to be experienced or privileged to run and own a successful business.

Camilla’s personal ambition is to promote scooting as a safe mode of sustainable transport, that is more accessible to women, parents, and commuters in heavily congested urban areas.

Thirteen food and drink companies that represent the Best of British in the South East are set to head to Milan this May, with UK Trade & Investment (UKTI).

The companies, which range from chocolate-makers to a wine producer will be showcasing their products to a global audience during the world expo in Milan, after winning UKTI’s Taste of the South East competition.                

The companies won the places on the Milan insight trip after a competitive pitch to a panel of international trade experts in Guildford last week, to explain how they represent the Best of British in the South East.

Export Chief Lewis Scott, Regional Director for UKTI South East, was on the judging panel. He said: “The entries in this competition really demonstrated the depth and breadth of produce available from across the South East region and revealed a great mix of traditional and innovative food and drink companies.

“The companies we are taking to Milan stood out due to their drive and global aspirations.

“Our region has a strong reputation for products which epitomise the quality associated with the ‘Best of British’ and these companies will be strong advocates for the region.

“The South East is renowned for its thriving food and drink sector. It creates jobs and prosperity. This sector plays a vital role in sustaining the UK’s economy and will continue to play a major part in its recovery. The entries this year demonstrate the exceptional pedigree of the region’s food and drink producers, with our winners representing the quality across the region.

“Exporting helps firms to sustain their business and grow, which is why I would urge all companies to take advantage of the support and opportunities UKTI offers to boost overseas success.“

The winning companies who will be heading on the insight trip are:

Kent

Rochester-based growers of apples and pears, AC Goatham & Son. The company have been growing British apples and pears since 1947 and are still owned and run every day by the same family.

Ramsgate producers of Kent Crisps and Kentish Oils, AMC Foods Ltd.

Chapel Down, Tenterden, which offers a world-class range of sparkling and still wines, together with an award-winning range of curious beer and cider.

Surrey

Clipper Teas (Wessanen) based in Camberley. They offer a range of hot drink products including tea, coffee and hot chocolate.

Creative Nature, based in West Molesey, is an innovative, ethical young superfood company providing truly healthy, yet tasty and affordable powders, wholefoods and snack bars.

Silent Pool Distillers, is a craft distilling company focussed on the production of artisan spirits. The distillery produces a range of gins, vodkas, liqueurs and whiskies.

West Sussex

Hepworth & Company Brewers Ltd Horsham, West Sussex, brew high quality ale, lagers and stouts from locally grown ingredients using traditional methods, and without preservatives or additives.  

Montezuma’s Chocolates - Montezuma’s was created out of a passion for great quality chocolate and a desire to bring innovative chocolate to the high street at an affordable price. Montezuma’s manufacture all their own products in West Sussex.

Isle of Wight

Island Brewery, is a traditional brewery, producing traditional British ales, using only traditional, historical ingredients.

Hampshire

Jenkyn Place Vineyard is a family owned and run vineyard on the North Downs in Hampshire. It produces award winning English sparkling wines.

Schokolat is a British manufacturer of innovative and fun novelty chocolate products. Over 30 authentic looking chocolate tools, celebration items and sports/hobby gifts are available and all handmade from finest chocolate.

Berkshire

Reading-based Moo Free Limited, a manufacturer of gluten free and dairy free chocolate products. The company was founded at the end of 2010 by husband and wife team Mike & Andrea Jessop.

East Sussex

Ridgeview Wine Estate is a family run producer of traditional method sparkling wines from traditional grape varieties grown mainly in Sussex (Chardonnay, Pinot Noir and Pinot Meunier).

The companies will head to Milan on 5 May on the insight visit. They will receive admission to the Tutto Food exhibition and Expo Milano.

They will also have the opportunity for one-to-one meetings, market briefings with overseas experts and intensive support and guidance from a UKTI South East International sector adviser.

Manchester employers value candidates with ‘soft skills’ more highly than the UK average, according to research by recruiter Randstad.

Randstad research suggests that Northern employers prioritise people skills, co-operation and collaboration within organisations.  

In Manchester, the most desired soft skill is ‘team work’, with 61% of Randstad job listings in the area requiring it, compared to just half of listings across the UK as a whole.

The second most attractive quality Manchester-employers look for in potential candidates is being able to build relationships, cited in almost a quarter (23%) of job advertisements.

The most desired personality traits Manchester-employers look for in applicants are ‘dedication’ and ‘honesty’ – one in three (30%) Manchester vacancies mention these terms; more than double the wider UK average (15% and 9% respectively).  

In addition, just over a quarter (26%) are concerned with finding candidates who describe themselves as ‘passionate’, suggesting enthusiasm, loyalty and love of what you do is key to success in Manchester.

Managing director of Randstad Care, Victoria Short, said: “Candidates now have a secondary checklist to work through when assessing whether they are suitable for a role – but it also opens up a whole new window of opportunity.

“While core qualifications and experience may be an employer’s immediate consideration when whittling down applicants, as the competition heats up at the later stages of the hiring process, soft skills take centre stage – and are often the key differentiator between final candidates.

“It’s not just about finding someone who can get the job done - employers have to think about how someone will fit into a team, whether they can inspire and motivate colleagues, make tough decisions under pressure, and if they have the leadership capability to develop upwards in an organisation.

“Employers have been quick to cotton onto the importance of soft skills within their businesses, as well as the overall performance of our economy. Awareness of soft skills enables employers to maximise the efficiency of their workforce, by matching roles with the best suited personality traits.

“But workers are underestimating the importance of soft skills, and may be selling themselves short to their bosses and prospective employers as a result.

“Many individuals are part of a sports team, or volunteer in their spare time and not realise how these attributes may be applicable – and highly valuable – to the world of work.    “Companies actively look for these skills in candidates, and can also nurture these positive attributes in their workers through mentoring schemes.“

Soft skills currently contribute £88bn to the UK economy, and this is projected to rise to £109bn over the next five years

BMW Windows, a North East double glazing company, has moved into large new premises at Pelton Fell, near Chester-le-Street.

The family-run company has taken over Units 2-4 at the entrance to Stella Gill Industrial Estate.

The new premises afford the firm, established 30 years ago, its first showroom where the range of uPVC windows, doors and conservatories can be shown to customers. All products are manufactured on site in a factory at the rear of the premises.

BMW Windows, which is run by the family team of John and Debbie Jefferson and their sons, John and Andrew, was taken over by the family in 1997-98 when John, now 52, left the North Eastern Co-operative Society as an accountant to set up his own business.

Founding owners, Bent, Murphy and Wilson – hence the BMW name – established the business at Pelton Fell in 1985.

Managing director John Jefferson said: “We have invested more than £300,000 in the new showroom and factory to create capacity to move the business forward.

“Over the past three years our turnover has increased by 22 per cent and we have taken on seven new members of staff. We see the move as putting pegs in the ground to further grow our work with both residential, trade and new-build clients.“

BMW Windows employ a total of 20 people, 12 of whom work in manufacturing with the remainder in sales, installation and administration. The company also retains three teams of fitters on contract.

John added: “Double glazing companies can come and go but we survive by sheer determination and the quality and consistency of our service. The recession that began in 2007 saw our sales slump but we are a family firm and we pull together. We depend upon each other for our livelihoods and our customers have also come to trust us. They know that a ten-year guarantee from our company means something because we will still be here in ten years’ time.“

Labour will prioritise tax cuts for the North East & Cumbria’s 94,000 small firms with business rates cut in first Budget, says Shadow Chancellor, Ed Balls.

Ed Milliband’s party will put the region’s small businesses first in line for tax cuts and ensure the tax burden on small firms is lower than under the Tories, Ed Balls announced today.

The move, which will be in Labour’s first budget, will benefit 94,000 small business properties across the North East & Cumbria who will see their business rates cut and then frozen for the following year.

Ed Balls published Labour’s plan to deliver a fairer and simpler tax system for small firms. 

This is part of Labour’s Better Plan for Small Businesses, which includes action to tackle late payment, reducing unnecessary regulation and establishing a British Investment Bank to boost lending to small firms.

New figures published by Labour today show that since 2010 revenue from business rates has gone up by almost £3bn and that higher business rates have cost firms an average of £1,500 a year.

The topic of business rates as been hotly discussed during this election period, as Chancellor George Osborne granted Greater Manchester 100 per cent of business rates in his March Statement, dubbing this movement towards devolution ‘the most exciting development in civic leadership in a generation.’

The Chancellor also announced a “radical” investigation of how to change the system which sees 1.8million business in England paying "crippling" business rates.

Ed Balls, Labour’s Shadow Chancellor, said: “Unleashing the potential of smaller businesses to grow, create more good jobs and raise living standards is a vital part of Labour’s better plan. Because when working people and British businesses succeed Britain succeeds too.

“That’s why Labour’s first Budget will back Britain’s small firms and our struggling high streets by cutting business rates. And we will look to go further by putting small businesses first in line for future tax cuts. This is part of our plan to deliver a simpler and fairer tax system for small businesses.

“Under the Tories higher business rates have cost firms an average of £1500 a year and are an ever bigger part of their tax burden. So instead of another corporation tax cut for large companies which helps fewer than one in ten firms, we will cut and then freeze business rates for small firms instead. This is the right priority when money is tight. And it will mean that the tax burden on small businesses will be lower with Labour than under the Tories.

“As well as cutting business rates our plan will also tackle late payments, reduce unnecessary regulation and boost lending to SMEs who want to grow with a proper British Investment Bank.

“Every large business started off as a small business and I want to ensure smaller firms have the support they need to grow, invest, innovate and raise their productivity. Our plan will help small firms create more high skilled, high paid jobs which are vital to raising living standards.“

Chief Secretary to the Treasury Danny Alexander said: "Our system of business rates was created nearly 30 years ago. Since that time, the worlds of commerce and industry have changed beyond recognition. I’ve been impressed by the representations made by the business community and I know that business rates are a considerable cost.

"The government has taken measures to help businesses by capping rates and introducing reliefs for smaller businesses. But now the time has come for a radical review of this important tax. We want to ensure the business rates system is fair, efficient and effective."

Image source: Joe Mabel

From today Greater Manchester businesses will be entitled to £3.5k in additional skills funding, as part of the region’s landmark devolution agreement.

Under the deal, organisations taking on an apprentice for the first time will be eligible for additional funding of up to £3.5k per apprentice, compared to £1.5k elsewhere.

The Greater Manchester version of the national apprenticeship ‘AGE’ grant is one of the first tangible changes resulting from devolution.

The deal is open to all Greater Manchester-based employers that haven’t taken on an apprentice in the past year and employ up to 250 people.

Elsewhere in the country the limit is only 50 staff.

Managing Director of Damar Training, a North West-based apprenticeship provider, Jonathan Bourne said: “By raising the maximum employer size for the ‘AGE’ grant from 50 to 250 employees, the vast majority of employers in Greater Manchester are now in scope.

“We already work with dozens of employers – particularly law firms and professional service providers – that like to recruit high-calibre apprentices onto advanced and higher apprenticeships.

“Employers, such as these, will now receive at least £2.5k per apprentice – compared with £1.5k outside Greater Manchester.

“This money can be used for anything, but many firms will use it to offset an element of wage costs, or any additional training costs that are not covered by Government apprenticeship funding.

“Apprentices who start on an advanced or higher apprenticeship will attract a further £1k and those who have successfully progressed from a traineeship – they have to start the apprenticeship within four weeks of finishing the traineeship – will generate a further £1k.“

As part of the changes, employers will be able to receive grants for up to three new apprentice recruits in Greater Manchester.

Grants are paid once the apprentice, who needs to be aged 16 to 24 on enrolment, has been on the programme for 13 weeks, with a basic grant of £1.5k per apprentice.

Up to two additional grants per head are also available, taking the maximum per apprentice to £3.5k

103 business leaders from companies that collectively employ over half a million people have written an open letter to the Daily Telegraph stating that the Conservative-led government has been “good for business”

The executives range from companies such as Primark, Costa Coffee and Ladbrokes and represent brandes including Kingsmill, Robinsons and Tango.

Within the letter the business leaders say that a change in course will “threaten jobs and deter investment” sending a “negative message about Britain” putting recovery at risk.

Among the signatories there are nine senior executives from FTSE 100 companies, 21 FTSE 250 companies and a range of entrepreneurs.

The letter in full was published in the Daily Telegraph it reads:

"Dear Sirs,

"We run some of the leading businesses in the UK. We believe this Conservative-led Government has been good for business and has pursued policies which have supported investment and job creation.

"David Cameron and George Osborne’s flagship policy of progressively lowering Corporation Tax to 20% has been very important in showing the UK is open for business. It has been a key part of their economic plan.

"The result is that Britain grew faster than any other major economy last year and businesses like ours have created over 1.85m new jobs.

We believe a change in course will threaten jobs and deter investment. This would send a negative message about Britain and put the recovery at risk."

The North East Automotive Alliance (NEAA), a major new body to promote and support the growth of the region’s key automotive industry, is now officially open for business.

The NEAA, which is headquartered in Sunderland, is an industry-led organisation which brings together major names including Nissan, Nifco, Komatsu, Sevcon and Hyperdrive.

According to research by the NEAA, the automotive industry generates £7bn in sales for the North East, is responsible for £5.1bn in exports and creates a £2.6bn trade surplus annually.

In the last five years, more than £1bn in regional investment has been made into 21 automotive projects in the North East.

The sector directly employs 26,000 people and impacts on a further 141,000 jobs. Potentially, 10,000 additional jobs could be created in the next five to 10 years.

The NEAA is looking to address skills gaps left by workers who are due to retire during that period, while also working to understand the region’s capabilities and gaps in the supply chain; carrying out benchmarking and sharing best practice, innovation and technology; and promoting the North East’s automotive excellence to the global market.

NEAA is offering membership to businesses in the sector ranging from multinationals to sole traders.

The Sunderland-headquartered organisation has appointed cluster-management specialist Paul Butler as its CEO.

Paul Butler, CEO of the NEAA, is the European Secretariat for Cluster Analysis, an organisation mandated by the European Commission to promote cluster management excellence, and he is the UK’s only benchmarking expert for the UK.

Prior to his appointment Mr Butler spent almost a decade on the management team of one of Europe’s leading clusters, the North East Process Industry Cluster (Nepic)

He said: “In February last year, we had a meeting with key North East automotive businesses and invited the North West Automotive Alliance across to talk to us. That meeting spurred an appetite within the sector to create our own cluster.

“Many regions across the EU are organised in such a way. 150 people will be attending Friday’s event is further proof of the enthusiasm within the broader automotive sector.

“A whole range of businesses and organisations have already signed up to the cluster from large manufacturers, tier-one suppliers to single-person suppliers, legal, financial, and academic organisations.“

Nissan’s Vice President for Manufacturing in the UK, Kevin Fitzpatrick, has been appointed to chair the NEAA. He said: “There are many opportunities ahead for companies in the automotive industry in North East England to win new business in the UK and from overseas and to improve their competitiveness and capability. The North East Automotive Alliance will provide the platform for making sure companies in the North East are able to take full advantage.“

The North East Chamber of Commerce (NECC)  and UK Trade & Investment (UKTI) welcomed North East business people to the Stadium of Light this week to discuss boosting their businesses through international trade.

At the region’s first International Trade Lunch, the NECC urged businesses to maximise their potential and consider exporting to a worldwide market.

Nicola Bolton, UKTI managing director of Trade, said: “Exporting is vital to the UK economy. Medium-sized businesses play a vital role in creating jobs, boosting skills and helping to reduce the trade deficit.”

Nicola explained UKTI is targeting inward investment, supporting UK businesses to build capacity and begin exporting. By increasing manufacturing and keeping the supply chain local, it is hoped that businesses will no longer be so reliant on overseas suppliers.

A company who has had significant success since expanding their trade outside the UK is RIBA Enterprises, the Knowledge Management business of the Royal Institute of British Architects.

Chief executive, Richard Waterhouse spoke of why it was time for international development, he said: “Business has become global,”

“With global standardisation there is huge opportunity for international growth, but businesses often wonder where to go first.

“There is a lot to think about: ease of entry into a particular country; size of potential market; and whether or not there will be a good relationship fit. My advice to those thinking about expanding their business and exporting is - don’t do it alone. Get all the support you can, but have fun. It’s an exciting ride.”

James Ramsbotham, NECC chief executive said: “The North East has a great reputation for export, ahead of any other region in the UK. As the region’s largest membership organisation we want to help our members build upon this impressive record.

“Working alongside UKTI we aim to help our members’ grow their businesses by offering support and advice, and providing networking opportunities with organisations who have successfully exported internationally. The government has challenged the UK to double our export levels. We’ve done it once, why not do it again?

“Exporting to a new market can be a daunting prospect but there is advice and help available. We’re looking forward to working with North East businesses, helping them become more innovative, profitable and increasing their level of growth.”

Image source: Philip Taylor PT

Home-builders in the North West have said that ‘unachieveable’ government targets and delays in planning processes hinder residential development according to a report published by BDO.

The report found that 94% of MDs and CEOs from major developers and housing associations thought government targets of 245,000 new homes per annum in the next two years are unrealistic.  

In the North West, the estimated demand for new homes is up to 19,600 each year.

The planning process is still the main barrier to development, closely followed by land availability and housing bosses felt that if these challenges were addressed they could increase output by 19% on average.

More than half (52%) of respondents thought the National Planning Policy Framework has made no difference.  

Some developers (18.8%) even reported that the NPPF is creating more problems than it is solving, such as imposing developments on local communities without the appropriate infrastructure to support it.

Tim Entwistle, partner and head of BDO LLP in the North West said: “While sentiment regarding the achievability of government targets is wholly negative, what is really surprising is that it can be rectified with a few small tweaks to planning policy and to the distribution of public sector land.

“The general election is the right time for all political parties to address the barriers to housebuilding.  

“The Help to Buy ISA announced during the Budget is a step in the right direction and would serve to support more first-time buyers in the region to get on the housing ladder.

“However, let’s hope the government takes the opportunity to help developers with the supply issue before the demand for such an incentive takes hold.“

Logistics recruiter, HLS Contract Staff, is expanding its national presence with the arrival of a North West team.

With an already successful operation based in the South East region, HLS offers a recruitment service to the Logistics industry focusing on having an in-house presence.

The company supplies temporary and permanent staff, providing job opportunities for a range of candidates from first time job seekers to professional drivers focusing on the logistics and warehousing sectors.

The new operation, with offices based in Trafford Park, Manchester and nearby Royton, will see the first arrival of HLS into the North of the UK and will aim to capitalise on the success the business has already had in the South.

Established in 2013 by Nicola Vening and Mike Ward, as part of the successful Halmer Recruit group with the growing need for in-house support .

Having seen demand for workers growing across the UK, the company believes it is the right time to put the company’s expansion plans into action.

Operations Manager for HLS Contract Staff , Adele Nolan, said: "HLS have made a great success in the South East as a bespoke onsite recruiter, we are very excited to be going live in the North West and with the experienced teams we have in place, I have no doubt it will go from strength to strength”.

The team in Manchester will be headed up by Adele Nolan, with Hayden Dando joining the company as Contracts Manager for the region and Claire Binns as an On-Site co-ordinator for one of the largest clients within the HLS operation.

A trio of Gateshead College students have launched a new retail venture at the Intu MetroCentre.

The handPICKED project,  a first for a North East college, is an independent outlet where students are able to trial their retail ideas and ambitions before going to market on their own.

The store can accommodate dozens of retail focused startups established by students – it’s anticipated that upwards of 100 young entrepreneurs from the college will be involved during the project’s 18-month trial.

Students Tom Heightley, 17, Connell Scott, 18, and Connor Wilson, 17, have been turning their hand to thornier issues as part of their studies towards completing their Performing Engineering Operations Level 2 qualification this summer.

The green-fingered youngsters have been using all the skills and techniques gained on their course to craft the decorative roses from sheet metal before welding them together to the highest degree of accuracy.

After fabrication in the workshop, the roses are being displayed and marketed at handPICKED before being sold for upwards of £30 apiece.

Connell Scott said the project’s providing the chance to gain not only technical expertise but also softer customer-focused sales skills: “I’ve enjoyed the process thoroughly, from the design to the finished product”.

Judith Doyle, principal and chief executive at Gateshead College, said: “Well done to Tom, Connell and Connor. They reflect how students are benefiting from the investments we are making to enhance their learning and bridge the skills gap.

“We are equipping them with the entrepreneurial knowledge and training that will stand them in good stead for a successful career, providing that all important edge that employers look for in an employee.

“It is part of our wider aim of ensuring that our students are the most highly prized in the jobs market.“

Hackney’s business community attended en masse to sign the first Hackney Business Charter, a commitment to the ongoing investment in the borough’s economy and its community.

Over 90 leaders from across Hackney’s thriving industries joined the Mayor of Hackney, Jules Pipe, for the inaugural Hackney Business Summit, a celebration of the positive impact that large commercial and smaller local businesses can have in the borough.

Launching last week at Ace Hotel in the centre of Shoreditch, the Summit provided an opportunity for businesses to sign-up to the Charter’s three key principles, which are: Community, Employment and Environment.

The Charter’s principles aim to encourage businesses to investment back into local areas of need, providing employment opportunities for local people, as well as supporting and strengthening communities and bringing in new and established businesses.

Businesses that sign the Charter will receive a range of comprehensive support from the Council that includes recruitment support, help with finding work premises in Hackney, growth and investment advice and training, promotion via the Hackney Business Network, and invitations to further business community events.

Jules Pipe, Mayor of Hackney said: “It was terrific to see so many businesses turn up to the launch, all interested to find ways they could put something back into the community around them. The Council is keen to support Hackney businesses to succeed and in return, through our Hackney Business Charter, we’re looking to them to open up opportunities for local people. The borough has unemployment and our new and growing businesses have a skills shortage – this scheme is designed to help solve both problems.

Hackney’s growing economic success should work for its residents as much as it works for businesses and visitors, if the borough is to remain a great place to live.

Any entrepreneurs hoping to set up their own online business within the region have just been given the opportunity to join a free fast-track e-commerce accelerator in Barnsley.

Provided by UK business start-up experts Enterprise Nation, the ‘Click’ programme is being funded by Enterprising Barnsley, a European-funded business support programme delivered by Barnsley Council.

Taking place at Barnsley’s Digital Media Centre (DMC), ‘Click’ will deliver 12 eligible businesses with eight weeks of in-depth support and technical know-how to help them transform their business plan into an online reality.

At least 12 months of constant mentoring for each business will also be supplied as they form part of a new e-commerce hub based at the DMC.

Throughout the duration of the programme, free access to the DMC’s shared workplace will always be available to the businesses.

Emma Jones, founder of Enterprise Nation, said: “The UK has seen record numbers of people starting a business over the last four years. It’s a growing trend and it is important that we encourage and support enterprise across all regions.

“Enterprising Barnsley has been quick to embrace this to support local economic growth. By delivering an intensive boost to businesses here over the coming months, we hope it will make a big difference by driving ambition and sowing the seeds for future growth and collaboration in the borough.”

During Click’s eight week intensive programme, businesses will be taught how to write a business plan, research the market; create a website and attract visitors to browse and buy; protect intellectual property and trade online covering all legal requirements.

In addition, the course will also aid businesses in developing and promoting a brand; make sales online and off with a high profile pop-up; get business basics in place including logistics, sales, marketing, social media and finances and make useful connections to support growth.

Applications to join the ‘Click’ programme, which will start Monday June 8, are now available and the closing date is on Friday May 1.

Tracey Johnson of Enterprising Barnsley said: “We are delighted to be working with Enterprise Nation who will surround the chosen 12 companies with the local and national support they need to succeed in the unique environment of our Digital Media Centre.

“Barnsley has more than 750 years of trading history as a market town and this e-commerce accelerator will build on that heritage to help today’s businesses trade effectively online.”