Fully-funded training and development for senior staff is being offered to businesses at a new Management Academy launched in Gateshead this week.

Intraining, one of the UK’s leading recruitment and training providers, created the Academy after its business advisers spotted a gap in professional development opportunities for businesses which had only one or two management-level staff requiring it.

In many cases the companies could not find the money or the time to develop the management skills needed to improve performance and grow their business.

Now Intraining has stepped in to fill the gap, launching the Academy with three Leadership and Management sessions, being held at Gear House in Saltmeadows Road, Gateshead.

The first session, on June 17, focused on managing change and inspiring and motivating staff.

Two further sessions on June 24 and July 1 will cover management topics such as group dynamics and delivering measurable results.

Businesses from across all sectors have signed up for the cost-free sessions. They range from call centres and care homes to engineering companies and retailers.

Intraining Business Adviser Manager Richard Pitt, who is running the Academy, plans to expand the provision across the North East.

He said: “Feedback from the first session has been very positive.

“Companies are keen to develop their management skills and capabilities but sometimes have difficulty finding funding to get training for just one or two people.

“The Management Academy offers that training – and at no cost to the company – so it’s a win-win situation.”

The training is funded through the Government’s Skills Support for the Workforce initiative.

Any company interested in future Management Academy sessions can contact Intraining’s Management Academy administrator, Lisa Ashley, on 0191 383 7386.

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A UKTI Export Fair rides into a North Yorkshire racecourse this week, providing an opportunity for companies to find out more about the wealth of support available to help them succeed in overseas markets.

The UK Trade & Investment (UKTI) event, at Ripon Racecourse on Friday (June 27), will offer a chance to network and hear from like-minded companies about their experiences and speak with UKTI staff from international offices.

The fair, supported by Chamber International, takes place just a week before Yorkshire prepares to host the Grand Depart of The Tour de France, which will bring unprecedented international interest to the region.

Export chief for Yorkshire and the Humber, UK Trade & Investment (UKTI) regional director Mark Robson, said:  “The eyes of the world will be looking our direction for the Tour De France, so the Export Fair is a great opportunity to create awareness about the companies in Yorkshire that sell overseas and those who may be thinking of doing so.  

“Whether you’re a business just thinking of dipping your toe into the overseas market, or if you’re already well established internationally, the Export Fair is a great opportunity to access first hand advice from UKTI overseas staff and other experts on the various aspects of international trade.”

The latest trade in goods statistics from HM Revenue & Customs revealed that total exports from Yorkshire and the Humber were worth more than £4.07 billion for the first quarter of 2014 (January to March) – sustaining the record growth achieved in 2013.

Mark added: “Evidence shows that businesses which trade overseas are more efficient, more resistance to shocks and unexpected occurrences and ultimately more profitable. We’re really looking forward to welcoming and engaging with local at the event.”

The UKTI Export Fair takes place on June 27 from 9.00am - 4.00pm at Ripon Racecourse, on Boroughbridge Road. To book your place at this free event, visit the registration website at: https://exportfair27thjune.eventbrite.co.uk  

For further on the general support available from UKTI Y&H call 0300 365 1000 or email info@uktiyorkshire.co.uk

At the age of just 17, Kelly Wright launched her own online fashion store after leaving college and giving birth to her first child. The 24-year-old has announced that her retail exploit, Krystellie, is expecting to achieve an annual turnover of £300k.

The single mum-of-two began running her business from a Middlesbrough council house living room. She now has regular customers across the UK and often ships products as far afield as Australia.

Until recently, Kelly managed all aspects of the business by herself, including social media, sales and accounts. She recently took on her first employee and is looking to take her business to the next level.

Kelly said: “I still don’t think I fully realise just how big Krystellie could be but I’m so excited with the way things are going. I do work 24/7 but I just love the way things keep on getting bigger and better.

“It is addictive. I get a massive buzz when I get positive feedback and I see that I can make people happy with my products.”

Kelly is looking for investors to help her expand the business from a Facebook account with 52,000 likes and an online retail business that’s trebled over the past 12 months alone.

She said: “We are starting to promote the business via platforms beyond Facebook and are looking to expand our product range.

“I’ve proved that I’ve got the ideas and work ethic to grow the business from nothing without any help but now we do need investment to help take us quickly to where we want to be.”

Krystellie are currently looking to recruit staff with interest in fashion and social media. Kelly can be contacted via sales@krystelliefashion.com

A Sheffield dentist announced she had fulfilled her dreams of becoming a practice owner as she acquired the School Road Dental Surgery.

Christina Rackham, who has worked at the practice for several years, has acquired Sheffield School Road Dental Surgery from Elizabeth Kidman and Ray Stocker, who have retired from dentistry. 

The practice, located at Crookes has been in existence for many years and has many patients from the local vicinity and other areas of Sheffield.

Christina Rackham, new owner of School Road Dental Surgery said: “I’ve always known that I wanted my own dental practice and when Elizabeth and Ray said that they were considering retiring it seemed like the perfect opportunity to invest in the practice and take over the reins. 

"Patients can be assured that the practice will continue to run as usual. The funding from Barclays has enabled me to fulfil my dreams."

School Road Dental Surgery employs six dentists, one hygienist, one therapist, six nurses, three receptionists and one office manager.

Steve Armstrong, senior business banking at Barclays said: "Christina’s knowledge of the practice and her experience within the industry enabled us to quickly agree funding for the acquisition and we look forward to seeing the success of the practice under new ownership. 

"This deal demonstrates that Barclays in South Yorkshire is open for business for quality transactions and we will continue to support businesses with their growth aspirations."

A Hailsham teenager has cause for double celebrations after being recruited by a leading motor dealership and discovering that she has the honour of being a national training provider’s 1000th apprentice.

Miranda Read (18) an ex pupil of Ringmer Community College in Lewes is driving her career forward thanks to Group 1 Automotive company, Chandlers Hailsham BMW, and Tyneside based training provider Business Impact UK.

Customer Service Apprentice, Miranda has joined the BMW dealership’s Customer Support Team where she books in appointments, ensures customers are completely satisfied with any work carried out by the servicing team and handles enquiries from the general public.

Miranda’s apprenticeship programme is designed to give her valuable paid work experience through a structured programme that will enable her to do her job well. Full training and support is given by Business Impact UK as MD, Martin Wray explains:

 “When we are asked to provide an apprentice, we look after every stage in the recruitment process from writing job descriptions, advertising, screening suitable applicants and interviewing. We always go the extra mile to make sure we get the best candidate every time and as Miranda is our 1000th apprentice in the 16-18 year old age group, we must be doing something right. The added bonus is that funding is available to the employer too.”

Miranda’s manager Chris Downes was impressed with both Miranda and the training she receives from Business Impact UK.  

“We are a premium automotive brand and to maintain our high standards we expect our team to be the very best. Professional excellence matters to us here at Chandlers BMW and Business Impact UK really exceed our expectations with their recruitment and training programmes. ”

Chandlers BMW started their apprenticeship partnership with Business Impact UK in November 2011 and since then, 14 past learners have been trained in Marketing, Business Administration, Customer Service, Sales and Team Leader Training. Including Miranda, there are currently 13 learners at the showroom and another three are due to be enrolled soon. The company has also worked with Business Impact UK to produce testimonial videos which chronicle the success of the apprenticeship scheme.

Miranda was delighted to be the 1000th apprentice in the 16-18 age group.

“ I love working at Chandlers BMW, the people are very friendly and I am learning a lot. My training has been excellent and I’m honoured to be the 1000th apprentice. It’s amazing to think that 1000 young people like me have been given a real chance to have a worthwhile career.”

In the last five years, Business Impact has enrolled more than 13,000 learners from a staggering 887 companies all over the UK. Typically apprentices are recruited for business administration, customer service, manufacturing, business improvement techniques, health & social care and warehousing roles. The company now has a national footprint and has recently enrolled apprentices for companies such as HT Media, Automarine Cables, James Burrell, PG Legal and WM Morrison PLC supermarket chain.

Ends

Photo Shows Miranda at work        (PLEASE CREDIT : A Duckworth)

Videos can be seen at www.youtube.com/user/BusinessImpactUKLtd

More information from

Business Impact

Endurance House

Seventh Avenue

Team Valley

Gateshead

NE11 0EF

Switch: 0191 497 1920

www.businessimpactuk.com

A Teesside taxi firm is hoping to take on more drivers after successfully rolling out a Back to Work scheme.

Middlesbrough-based Boro Taxis has entered the second phase of an initiative designed to get unemployed people back into work.

In partnership with Aim High Training, the company has secured funding to run a Back to Work Pilot that has the capacity to train up to 100 unemployed individuals to become taxi and private hire drivers.

Following two initial open days, 37 men and two women signed up and now are taking part in practical and classroom-based training at Boro Taxis, based at Cargo Fleet, Middlesbrough.

Following two more open days, a further 24 people have enrolled on the course that includes an Edexcel Level 2 BTEC Certificate in Introduction of the Role of the Professional Taxi and Private Hire Driver.

Following the training, the Licensing Authority will assess the suitability of all applicants for a job as a private hire driver, via Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) checks and medical check and knowledge tests.

All those who pass the course and meet the regulatory checks and necessary standards are guaranteed a job with Boro Taxis.

Mohammed Bashir, founder of Boro Taxis, which started out with three cars in 1982 and now has a fleet of 700, said: “Being involved in the Back to Work Pilot scheme reflects that as it will help us maintain the quality of service we provide while help equip local people with the knowledge and skills to become employed as a taxi driver.

“I am delighted that we have now entered phase two of the training scheme that will ultimately help train 100 people.“  

Those who attended the open days were able to find out what the role of a private hire driver entailed after which they could decide if they wanted to proceed further.

John Moon, a director at Boro Taxis, which has a fleet of 700 vehicles, is a qualified assessor and is leading the training, which comprises two days a week for six weeks.

The BTEC course covers customer service, disability awareness, health and safety, route planning, the carriage of luggage, and the regulations surrounding the industry.

Boro Taxis has a workforce of 800, which is made up of a mixture of direct employees and self-employed drivers, all of whom are fully trained.

Image source: BFC - BY OFFICIAL APPOINTMENT

BBC Apprentice finalist Neil Clough and Channel 5’s Gadget Show presenter Jon Bentley will be headlining a premier business event at the home of newly promoted Burnley FC.

Expo North West is set to take place on Wednesday July 9 when over 70 exhibitors and around 500 delegates are expected to descend on the Turf Moor football ground for the free event.

The event is set to become a regular fixture on the business calendar and will take place twice a year offering visitors the chance to hear from an array of expert speakers and also network with delegates from across the region, all looking to generate new leads and promote their services.

Dubbed the "right man with the wrong plan" by Lord Sugar during the Apprentice, Neil will deliver a lively speaking session about his motivation and what he learned about business and people during the popular TV show.

Neil said: “I’m really looking forward to speaking at Expo North West where I will be talking about why I’m so motivated to succeed in business along with sharing stories from The Apprentice. It was an amazing and life changing experience and I really hope my talk will help motivate and inspire.“

Fellow speaker, Gadget Show presenter and journalist Jon Bentley, will deliver a humorous seminar entitled ‘Business gadgets that don’t work!’, while advising on a few that do.

Jon worked as a producer on BBC’s global smash hit Top Gear and was responsible for launching the TV careers of Jeremy Clarkson, Quentin Willson and Vicki Butler-Henderson before moving in front of the camera himself.

Jon and Neil will be joined by other speakers delivering a range of seminars on topics such as getting the most out of social media, improving customer service, consumer behaviour and the green supply chain.

Marc Gordon of Exposure Events, which organises the successful Expos across the UK, said: “We are delighted to bring our successful Expo to Turf Moor for what will be a fabulous event, with a tremendous array of speakers from across the UK as well as a few home-grown stars. The Expo is an excellent way to develop your business and make new contacts.“

Big names already signed up to take part at Expo North West include Willow Starcom, Bowker International, O2, Rijo 42 and Lesar UK to name but a few.

The Expo North West event is free to attend but registration is recommended via the website www.exponorthwest.co.uk

The event is one of several business networking events across the UK ran by Exposure Events.

Anyone interested in exhibiting at Expo North West should call Exposure Events on 07523 072304 or email hello@exposure-events.com.

A North East sofa company is celebrating the opening of new London premises.

Luxury furniture crafting house, The Original Sofa Company, has opened the a new on Lower Sloane Street in Chelsea, London.

The Sunderland-born business is well known for its high quality, hand crafted furniture, becoming the only crafting house in Britain to produce pieces entirely using 19thC hand crafted methods and materials.

Owner David Robinson said: “The new showroom is incredibly exciting.

“Everybody knows Lower Sloane Street and its association with luxury and for us, it’s home from home.”

Nestled in amongst some of the world’s finest brands including Harrods, Prada and the famous Saatchi Gallery, The Original Sofa Company’s products are sure to be well received.

“There’s nothing like what we do already there,” added David.

“Our products are quite literally crafted on a personal level for our clients. There’s no production line of side-stepping mass production, these are true pieces of historic craftsmanship.”

The company’s crafting house and second showroom will remain at Team Valley, Gateshead.

The entrepreneur behind Leeds-based budget gym chain Xercise4Less took home the Private Equity award at last night’s EY North of England Entrepreneur Of The Year Awards dinner in Manchester. 

The judges praised ‘the vibrant and open culture’ chief executive Jon Wright has created at the high growth business, and were impressed at how the company secured capital from the Business Growth Fund and Lloyds Bank to accelerate its growth plans. 

Founded by former professional rugby player Jon in 2006, Xercise4Less has 19 gyms, four more close to opening and plans for significant further growth in the UK.

Stuart Watson, Yorkshire-based Partner and UK Entrepreneur Of The Year Leader at EY, said: “Having identified a niche in the competitive gym market for large scale budget clubs, Jon’s passion, ambition and commercial acumen have been central to Xercise4Less’ impressive growth story in recent years. 

“With a supportive investor in the Business Growth Fund and recently secured capital from Lloyds Bank, the company is well positioned to accelerate this expansion over the coming years, enabling it to bring the best variety of equipment at low prices to even more customers throughout the UK.“ 

Each winner was judged and selected from 29 finalists leading 27 companies from across the North West, Yorkshire and North East. All of the North of England winners will go on to represent the region at the UK finals in October 2014. 

Stuart Watson commented: “Entrepreneurs are vital to a dynamic and developing economy, so it’s important that we continue to support their ambitions and celebrate their successes. 

“This is particularly important in regions away from London and the South East, which will be critical in securing and sustaining the economic recovery for the whole of the UK. With impressive entrepreneurs like our finalists creating jobs and wealth right across the North, we can feel confident that a rebalancing of the economy can be achieved over the coming years.“ 

Image source: marfis75

According to research carried out by classified ads search engine Adzuna, the number of job seekers to each job has reduced by half in the last twelve months in the North of England.

Twelve months ago, there were more than 20 jobseekers competing for each advertised position in half of the towns in the North.

In Sunderland, the number of job seekers to each job has reduced from 40 to 14 since May 2013.

In addition, the report indicates that the labour market is showing evidence of emerging wage growth, with pay increasing for the second consecutive month in May 2014.

Advertised salaries in the North East increased 0.3% between April and May, bringing the average salary to £27,716.

Andrew Hunter, co-founder of Adzuna, said: “Wages are truly beginning to turn a corner, with employers increasing salaries in a bid to attract the talented staff they need to grow. It is helping to turn a much needed rise in real wages from distant dream to tangible reality.

"Given inflation fell to 1.5% in May, it’s hard to see the Bank of England holding off on raising interest rates until 2015. Surely the Bank’s ‘wait and see’ tactics will only last as long as the summer months. Our data suggests a rate rise is most likely in Q4 of 2014.

"Growing manufacturing opportunities in the North West and Yorkshire are beginning to bridge the North-South divide in the labour market.

"Osborne’s ‘Northern powerhouse’ proposals for a high speed rail link between Manchester and Leeds will no doubt close that gap even further. In order to support workers from the top to the tail of the UK, we need more projects that will connect and develop pockets of industry and continue to stimulate new job vacancies.”

Ten National Business Awards semi finalists have pitched their business to a live audience and a panel of judges at Liverpool’s St George’s Hall.

The judges have now decided the five finalists who will face a public vote to help decide the overall winner of the inaugural Duke of York New Entrepreneur of the Year Award.

The five Duke of York New Entrepreneur of the Year finalists are:

- Emma Cerrone, Free:Formers

- Alistair Smit, The Magic Thermodynamic Box

- Ben Weaver, Outlook Publishing Ltd

- Kathryn Birch, Translive Global

- Jay Radia, Yieldify

Each semi finalist presented a three-minute pitch on their business model, key achievements and elements underpinning future growth.

The judging panel – which included Ed Wray, co-founder of Betfair; Charmaine Eggberry, former Wayra director and CEO of Plan B Consulting; Thea Green, nails inc founder; Guy Rigby, Head of Entrepreneur Services at Smith & Williamson; and Simon Burckhardt, Managing Director of Vonage UK - commented on the exceptional talent and future prospects of the finalists.

They focused on the market opportunity identified, the model to capitalise on it and how it has been executed within the first 18 months of trading.

The Duke of York has, with the National Business Awards, established the Award as part of his support for the UK’s promising new entrepreneurs.

HRH believes that encouraging more entrepreneurial endeavour will lead to greater opportunities for people to become economically active.

Speaking at the event The Duke described how committed he is to supporting initiatives – such as the award - that accelerate, amplify and reward entrepreneurial skills.

HRH The Duke of York said: “If we’re going to employ people we’re going to have to be more entrepreneurial. We’re going to have to find ways of encouraging young people or people who are in businesses, who see a niche in the market, to get out there and start their own business.

“What’s very interesting listening to each of the semi finalists, has been the fact that you’ve all come from different backgrounds, you’ve all had different experiences and you’re all setting off down a path, not only to be a business in its own right, but that you want to grow quickly.

“If there’s one thing that can make a difference to prosperity in the UK it’s high growth, fast growth businesses. Listening to these people shows that we’re on the right track.“

Alex Evans, Programme Director for the National Business Awards said: “The courage and conviction of these new entrepreneurs really came through in their pitches. What they all had in common was a purpose beyond profit – with personal values embedded in their business models.“

Vonage, a leading provider of internet telephony for small businesses, and Lead Supporter of the Duke of York New Entrepreneur of the Year Award, has partnered with the National Business Awards to find and recognise the best first-time business founders.

They will now provide each finalist with access to their products and services to help them continue to grow their business.

Simon Burckhardt, Managing Director of Vonage UK said; “Entrepreneurs like the ones we had a chance to hear from today are the back-bone of this economy. They are an example of the innovation, creativity and passion that exists in the UK business community. While we may have selected five finalists, the competition was tough, not unlike the current business environment.“

The ten semi-finalists benefited from face to face presentation coaching to hone their three minute pitch – provided by Beermat Entrepreneur Mike Southon, who designed the ‘5 P Elevator Pitch’ to focus on Pain, Premise, People, Proof, and Purpose.

All registered attendees used a new web-based networking app to connect before, during and after the event, provided by Iwaz.at, and the audience was able to pose questions, vote and poll throughout the event using sli.do.

Recognising enterprise excellence, innovation and ethics, the thirteenth annual National Business Awards will celebrate a range of achievements through 17 award categories – the winners will be revealed on 11 November 2014.

To vote for your favourite Duke of York New Entrepreneur of the Year finalist and to attend the National Business Awards visit www.nationalbusinessawards.co.uk

Image source: Erik Daniel Drost

Michael Howard, managing director of Leeds-based Howard Civil Engineering (HCE), was one of just 22 entrepreneurs invited to take part in the prestigious Goldman Sachs 10,000 Small Businesses UK Alumni programme at Oxford University’s Said Business School. 

Michael Howard founded Howard Civil Engineering in 2003. The £15 million turnover company based at Acorn Business Park, Killingbeck Drive, Leeds, employs 120 people across the UK. 

Posting a 70% growth in the last 12 months, it has ambitious plans to increase staff numbers to 200 after securing several major contracts.

The founder of the of construction company was selected from 700 outstanding leaders of small businesses who had previously attended the first stage of the world-class Goldman Sachs 10,000 Small Business UK programme, which is run in partnership with four leading university management schools.

Michael is an alumnus of the programme run at Leeds University Business School.

Michael said: "To be accepted onto the Goldman Sachs course and then selected for this high growth programme was an excellent achievement for both myself and Howard Civil Engineering.

"As a small business, it is reassuring to know that there are schemes such as this designed to provide high-quality support which can only help create jobs and stimulate economic growth.

"The quality of the information we were given and the opportunity of being in a room with like-minded people was amazing. What was especially useful was the insight I gained from other business leaders.

"The challenge now is returning to the business and working out a strategy which will enable me to implement the ideas I picked up."

Fiona Reid, associate fellow at Said Business School, added: "Howard Civil Engineering was one of the businesses that impressed us with its calibre and potential. To be eligible, businesses have to have double digit growth year on year, meet turnover criteria and all the CEOs must want to accelerate their rate of growth.

"Our objective is to equip business leaders with the skills, confidence and a network of support to achieve this."

The 10,000 Small Businesses UK programme was launched by Goldman Sachs in 2010 to specifically address the support gap for small enterprises. The aim of the scheme is to provide business owners with greater access to education, capital and business support services. It is funded by Goldman Sachs and the Goldman Sachs Foundation.

Graduate entrepreneurs from the region will gather next week at York St John University to turn their up and coming business ideas into reality at Yorkshire’s annual Graduate Entrepreneurship Boot Camp, sponsored by Finance Yorkshire and Blacks Solicitors.

Over 30 entrepreneurial students and graduates from around the Yorkshire region have secured their places on the four day residential event (July 1-4), including:

• Belinda Noda, MSc Environmental Management graduate from Sheffield Hallam University and the inspiration behind a cycle design for disabled people and their carers.
• ReCONNECT, a business in the first stage of planning which aims to address the gap in therapeutic approaches for army personnel and veterans that are experiencing mental health issues. ReCONNECT is the brainchild of York St John University Psychology PhD graduate Elizabeth Freeman
• Emmanuel Ago and Hamza Ahmed who are developing their business Syrishapes. Emmanuel and Hamza are 2nd year undergraduates at University of Leeds who are looking to bring products to market that will make injections a less harrowing experience for children.

Belinda said:“Boot Camp will help me gain a more in-depth understanding of business so that we can offer a life transforming product to people who will benefit from the fun and freedom provided by our Companionable Cycle.“

Boot Camp is now in its eighth year and this year is hosted by York St John University for the first time. The project is a collaboration of eleven higher and further education partner institutions from the Graduate Entrepreneurship Project, including University of Bradford, University of Huddersfield, University of Hull, University of Leeds, Leeds College of Art, Leeds Metropolitan University, Leeds Trinity University, University of Sheffield, Sheffield Hallam University, University of York, and York St John University.

Robert Sager, enterprise officer at York St John University said, “Boot Camp gives the region’s entrepreneurial students and graduates an inspirational environment in which they can explore and develop their business ideas.

"They will leave the camp equipped with a wealth of knowledge to start them on their journey into business.“

Boot Camp runs from 1-4 July and is open to students and graduates of Yorkshire’s universities and higher education institutions. More information about the Graduate Entrepreneurship programme can be found at http://graduateentrepreneurship.co.uk.

Businesses across the Sheffield City Region are being urged to use the Overseas Business Network (OBN) to boost exports.

A series of events with representatives from the OBN are being launched by South Yorkshire International Trade Centre (SYITC), with the first in Sheffield earlier this week.

The Overseas Business Network initiative, created by Prime Minister David Cameron in 2012, aims to transform the support available to businesses looking to grow through exports.

It is made up of representatives of 41 countries from around the world tasked with helping businesses enter new markets, find customers and offer guidance on international trade.

SYITC is bringing key officials from the countries to Sheffield to meet with businesses in the city region through a series of ‘Meet and Build’ events at its offices within the Sheffield Chamber of Commerce.

At the first event more than 50 people attended, including Vince Cunningham from China Britain Business Council, Chris Wren and Dhini Puspitasari of the British Chamber in Indonesia, Chris Bush of the British Slovak Business Centre, Steve Toogood and Caroline Erskine of the UK India Business Council, along with Jennifer Hainsworth from the British Chamber in Singapore.

Nick Patrick, international trade manager at SYITC, said: “The events provide an opportunity for companies in the Sheffield City Region to meet with the Overseas Business Network and vice-versa.

“The OBN is a fantastic initiative which helps make personal introductions to key contacts around the world. I am looking to meet representatives from all 41 markets so when we have a business in the Sheffield City Region looking to expand into another country we can put them in touch with the right person there to help make that process as smooth as possible.

“These individuals are located across the world tasked with helping businesses in the Sheffield City Region to export to these markets. Please put them to use.

“With support from all the Chambers of Commerce, UKTI, South Yorkshire International Trade Forum and Creative Sheffield, we can provide all the necessary assistance for businesses to grow their exports.“

Lorraine Holt is the regional co-ordinator for Yorkshire and Humber within the Overseas Business Network initiative. She said: “The Government wants to double UK exports to £1trillion by 2020 and they see the OBN as a critical element to helping business grow existing markets and create new routes into international trade.

“The network provides practical business-to-business support and guidance on their relevant market, preparing businesses to enter new regions, as well as offering access to customers, distributors and suppliers.“

The OBN initiative is a partnership between all the British Chambers of Commerce, UKTI and the Foreign and Commonwealth Office.

SYITC is staging a second ‘Meet and Build’ event on July 18 with representatives from Chile, Columbia, Mexico, Morocco and Brazil all attending, plus other key markets will be confirmed.

Delegates need to register their attendance by contacting SYITC on 0114 201 8888, email info@syitc.com or visit www.syitc.com. 

To watch a video of Sheffield Chamber executive director Richard Wright on OBNs visit http://exportbritain.org.uk/blogs/building-a-global-network-to-support-uk-exporters.html

Or for more information about the Overseas Business Network initiative visit www.exportbritain.org.uk.

Image source: London Chow

The Business Improvement District (BID) overseen by District Darlington has partnered with Meercat Associates Ltd to launch a scheme to reduce costs for traders.

Businesses in Darlington could save thousands of pounds on services and utilities thanks to a new initiative.

Affected businesses range from hair salons to photo studios, clothes shops to delicatessens.

The scheme utilises the collective purchasing power of the BID to negotiate reduced bills for a wide range of services, such as energy, telecoms, print and pest control.

So far, Meercat Associates, which works exclusively with BIDS of all sizes, has helped retailers in BIDs across the UK save hundreds of thousands of pounds.

In London’s Camden Town it achieved savings of £60,300, it saved £87,500 in Winchester, with Ipswich and Ealing BIDs saving around £75,000 between them – and Distinct Darlington now hopes to follow suit.

Alex Hirst, manager of Distinct Darlington, said: “Meercat Associates has already met a few of our independent retailers and identified potential savings of around £20,000.

“Now, with that information to hand, the businesses are able to make informed decisions when their existing contracts come up for renewal.”

To find out more about the scheme or for further information about Distinct Darlington visit www.distinctdarlington.co.uk.

North East-based full service strategic marketing company Horizonworks is on the rise after doubling the size of its team in the last 12 months.

The expanding firm has made two new appointments and promoted a key member of staff, following increased demand for its strategic marketing and design divisions.

The firm, which is headquartered in Newcastle, has welcomed client marketing manager Kirsten Meaney and designer Ryan Errington to its team, following a number of high profile client wins, and their recruitment is part of Horizonworks’ ambitious growth strategy over the next 3 years.

As a result of increased demand for its strategic marketing services – which includes in-depth marketing analysis, strategy development, marketing planning, perception analysis and benchmarking audits – client marketing manager Steve Abbott has been promoted to head of strategy and development. 

Steve has over 10 years’ marketing experience in industry and will be responsible for all marketing strategy and development projects for clients. He specialises in the creation and implementation of business to business marketing strategies and corporate communications.

Commenting on his promotion, Steve said: “I’ve been with the company only nine months and in that time I’ve seen the team double in size. It’s clear that 2014 will be a landmark year for the company and I’m very excited to be part of its continued expansion.“

The company, which offers full service marketing – including strategic marketing, public relations, design, digital and brand development – has seen success with client wins spanning numerous industries.

Recent additions to its client portfolio include the North East Local Enterprise Partnership, business and financial solutions provider Solutions for Accounting, freight forwarding company Johnson Partners and global industrial filtration specialists Parker Domnick Hunter. The company has also recently completed a high profile PR campaign for membership support network the Institute of Water’s annual conference.

As client marketing manager, Kirsten Meaney will be responsible for supporting the company’s regional and national clients in the delivery of their PR and marketing strategies.

Prior to joining Horizonworks, Kirsten worked for construction specialist Carillion where she created and implemented marketing campaigns within the energy and education sectors.

She has also worked at Northumbria University Business School where she led its marketing programme and has experience within the defence, space, aerospace and security sectors from her work as marketing manager for membership organisation Northern Defence Industries.

Commenting on her new role, Kirsten said: “I’m really excited to join Horizonworks and looking forward to becoming part of the team.  The business is going from strength to strength and the wide variety of prestigious clients the company works with is something which really appealed to me.“

The company – which has recently secured design contracts with high profile clients including current LV= County Championship holders Durham Country Cricket Club – has also bolstered its creative arm with the appointment of designer Ryan Errington. Ryan will assist the creative manager in the delivery of design, following increased requirement for Horizonworks’ creative services.

Ryan spent three years as graphic designer for a leading North East creative and design agency, where he worked on a number of graphic, web design and print projects, spanning multiple sectors including retail, leisure, finance, law and education.

Ryan said: “I’m delighted to be joining such a dynamic organisation: Horizonworks is becoming established as a major player in the marketing arena, and its creative work is really turning heads on a regional and national level.“

Samantha Davidson, managing director of Horizonworks, added: “I’m very pleased to welcome both Kirsten and Ryan to our growing team and to appoint Steve in his new role. Kirsten brings with her a wealth of marketing experience across a range of key sectors whilst Ryan will play an integral part in the growth of our creative arm.

“Demand is already extremely high for our strategic marketing services and more than 75% of our current clients require a strategic component in our work with them. Steve is a strategy and development specialist and will head up this growing division.

 “Horizonworks has experienced immense growth in the last 12 months, but we’re not resting on our laurels. We’re only half way through 2014 and it’s already shaping up to be a very exciting year.“

Launched in 2010, Horizonworks’ clients include vehicle electronics specialist Hyperdrive Innovation, biomass utilities provider Gaia Heat, car dealership Vic Young, Vertem Asset Management, national regenerative medicine network Regener8 and leading biomedical network Bionow. 

Image source: Rodrigo_Amorim

An entrepreneurial couple have made their first acquisition since setting up a venture to buy successful companies with growth potential.

Raventa, which was established earlier this year by Marta and Bill Ravenna, has paid an undisclosed sum for BMB Weatherproof Canopies, a £2.6 million turnover business based at Wallasey, Wirral.

BMB, which employs 38 staff, manufactures forklift truck cabs in steel and PVC, and boot liners for hatchback cars.

The business was established in 1989 by owner Brian Blanchfield, who will continue to work at BMB on a consultancy basis.

Marta and Bill Ravenna set up Raventa after taking some time out following the sale of ColorMatrix Group, a liquid colourants manufacturer based at Knowsley. Bill was a co-founder of the business, which was bought by US-headquartered PolyOne in 2012.

Raventa, which is based on the Woodside Business Park, Birkenhead, Wirral, plans to accelerate BMB’s growth by providing financial and management support.

Bill said: “Marta and I are delighted to have completed this transaction. Since the sale of ColorMatrix, we have been looking for an opportunity to acquire the right business. We see enormous potential in BMB and look forward to supporting its growth.“

Raventa was advised by a team at HURST Corporate Finance comprising Nigel Barratt, Lauren Roberts and Richard Higham.

Andrew Sturge and David Hayes, of law firm Turner Parkinson, provided legal advice to Raventa.

Ilan Elfassy, of mergers and acquisitions adviser BCMS, managed the transaction after being engaged by BMB’s shareholders to find a buyer for the business.

Nigel Barratt said: “Marta and Bill are incredibly focused and determined, and I am sure that under their ownership BMB will be a great success. We look forward to working with them on other projects.“

A company that’s helping scores of people find peace of mind has opened a therapy centre in Guisborough.

Aspire 2 Mind has opened Bow Street Therapy Rooms, offering hypnotherapy and meditation to help clients overcome issues that may be affecting aspects of their lives.

The company was able to make the move thanks to Redcar Enterprise team – a project that’s providing free business support to companies across Redcar and Cleveland to boost the local economy.

Former full-time teacher Julie Phillips is behind Aspire 2 Mind. She shares Bow Street Therapy Rooms with fellow therapist, massage specialist Janette Love.

In addition to working with clients at the therapy centre Julie is also carrying out workshops and sessions for a range of companies, including one of the country’s leading providers of social housing.

Julie said: “I can help people deal with all manner of things and as the housing provider is a forward thinking company the management team asked me to provide the service to staff.

“It’s been hugely popular and there’s a waiting list of people wanting to take part in the sessions, which can help with a range of things including sleep issues, stress reduction, weight loss, coping strategies for a range of emotional issues such as the breakdown of a relationship and help to quit smoking.“

It was while she was Head of the Special Educational Needs and Student Support Department in a busy North Yorkshire secondary school that Julie decided to make a career change.

Julie said: “I now work with clients from all walks of life, helping them to move on past fears, phobias, limiting beliefs, get rid of smoking addiction, build self-confidence, and I also get to work with teachers and support workers who are feeling the effects of work-related stress.

“They may be thinking of leaving the profession but have doubts about their ability of what to do next while others want to stay in the profession but need time to relax, unwind and feel well so they can do their job to the best of their ability without compromising their health.“

Aspire 2 Mind is one of more than 200 companies receiving free help and support from Redcar Enterprise Team.

The team is made up of skilled business coaches, and is focused on helping companies in Redcar and Cleveland to achieve their goals, including moving premises, increasing their turnover and improving profitability

The scheme offers Redcar and Cleveland businesses at least 12 hours of free tailored support – dubbed the Dynamic Dozen.

Thanks to the Dynamic Dozen more than 100 jobs have been created and more than 200 companies have been supported during the last 12 months.

The business coaches have also held scores of free pre-start workshops, enabling hundreds of residents to realise their dream of running their own business or exploring the possibility of self-employment.

The team also holds a free business networking event every month which regularly attracts around 40 companies. 

Fashion entrepreneur Wayne Hemingway will head up a ‘Superfast Summit’ in Newcastle which will help firms learn more about free business help.

The event this Thursday (July 3), organised by Go Digital Newcastle, will bring together commercial landlords, internet suppliers, companies, charities and voluntary organisations to highlight the free connection vouchers and business support available.

Superfast broadband can speed up Wi-Fi and improve reliability, enabling businesses to reach more customers, promote their products and services and cut costs with more efficient working.

Businesses in Newcastle, North Tyneside and Gateshead are invited to apply for free Connection Vouchers worth up to £3,000 towards connecting to superfast broadband, which could give them the competitive edge they need.

Internet suppliers exhibiting at the event will be able to provide quotes to those businesses keen to take advantage of the Connection Vouchers.

Wayne Hemingway MBE – co-founder of the Red or Dead label and of multi-disciplinary designers HemingwayDesign - leads a multi-faceted business empire. 

He will be addressing the issue of how the digital arena has opened up a world of opportunities for businesses.

And he will reveal how he and his wife, Gerardine, also an MBE, have used those opportunities to further grow the many strands of their businesses, including HemingwayDigital, a division of the renowned and award-winning Hemingway Design.

Councillor Ged Bell, Cabinet Member for Investment and Development, said: “There’s never been a better opportunity for local companies, commercial landlords and charities to take advantage of free funding and practical help to reach more people.

“Go Digital Newcastle has the potential to boost the city’s economy by £150m, but only if organisations take advantage of the connection vouchers and make use of the business support that’s available.“

Jonathan Walker, NECC Head of Member Relations, said: “I would encourage all businesses to get involved and take advantage of the free support available.“

Those attending the Superfast Summit will also hear from companies who have already benefited from Go Digital Newcastle, and charities and voluntary organisations who are using the internet to reach more people and boost fundraising.

Go Digital Newcastle is being run by Newcastle City Council to bring superfast broadband to 97 per cent of the city by 2015, and is part-financed by the European Regional Development Fund.

• The Go Digital Newcastle Superfast Summit is taking place at Centre for Life, Newcastle, on Thursday.

Image source: Images_of_Money

An entrepreneurial couple have made their first acquisition since setting up a venture to buy successful companies with growth potential.

Raventa, which was established earlier this year by Marta and Bill Ravenna, has paid an undisclosed sum for BMB Weatherproof Canopies, a £2.6 million turnover business based at Wallasey, Wirral.

BMB, which employs 38 staff, manufactures forklift truck cabs in steel and PVC, and boot liners for hatchback cars.

The business was established in 1989 by owner Brian Blanchfield, who will continue to work at BMB on a consultancy basis.

Marta and Bill Ravenna set up Raventa after taking some time out following the sale of ColorMatrix Group, a liquid colourants manufacturer based at Knowsley. Bill was a co-founder of the business, which was bought by US-headquartered PolyOne in 2012.

Raventa, which is based on the Woodside Business Park, Birkenhead, Wirral, plans to accelerate BMB’s growth by providing financial and management support.

Bill said: “Marta and I are delighted to have completed this transaction. Since the sale of ColorMatrix, we have been looking for an opportunity to acquire the right business. We see enormous potential in BMB and look forward to supporting its growth.”

Raventa was advised by a team at HURST Corporate Finance comprising Nigel Barratt, Lauren Roberts and Richard Higham.

Andrew Sturge and David Hayes, of law firm Turner Parkinson, provided legal advice to Raventa.

Ilan Elfassy, of mergers and acquisitions adviser BCMS, managed the transaction after being engaged by BMB’s shareholders to find a buyer for the business.

Nigel Barratt said: “Marta and Bill are incredibly focused and determined, and I am sure that under their ownership BMB will be a great success. We look forward to working with them on other projects.”