Business Vision winter 2014

BUSINESS

VISIONThe Business Magazine of the Altrincham & Sale Chamber of Commerce

Winter 2014

Inside this issue...Chamber Business Awards 2014 Full report including a full list of winners, runners-up, sponsors and speeches from the glittering event held at the Best Western Cresta Court Hotel in the heart of Altrincham

Breakfast Matters Check out the last four breakfast networking events

Exclusive Interview Award winning photographer Martin Hambleton - the man behind the camera

Autumn Lunch Welcome to our newest members at our Autumn Lunch sponsored by Darbys Solicitors at the Mere Golf & Spa Resort

Chamber Mixers From the art of cocktails at the Hale Grill, to the advantages of private investment at Clark Art, and an introduction to new Chamber member LWA accountants at the Greek Kitchen, we report on recent Chamber mixers

Plus... Interviews, Focus Articles, Reviews, Member Benefits and Members’ Directory

All bridging finance secured on land and commercial property

0161 933 7152

At Bridging Finance Limited we are dedicated to serving clients of the property sector, enabling them to make quick property or land purchases, or capital raise against an existing property or land.

As a principal lender we are able to make decisions quickly. We offer a fast, simple and no-nonsense service.

Here are some examples of how bridging finance can help businesses:

• Quick property or land acquisitions

• Lending against residential investment,

semi-commercial, commercial and land

• Business cash injections

• 1st or 2nd charge loans

• Auction property purchases

• Helping businesses expand/acquire

• Investment property purchase

WINNERS ALTRINCHAM & SALE

CHAMBER OF COMMERCE AWARDS

PROPERTY TEAM OF THE YEAR 2014

This information is for use only by professional finance and mortgage intermediaries. Other persons should not place any reliance on the content. It must not be distributed to potential borrowers.

This Communication is from Bridging Finance Limited | Registered in England and Wales - Company Registration Number 03166982 | Registered office: Lake View, Lakeside, Cheadle, Cheshire SK8 3GW.In respect of regulated mortgage contracts, Bridging Finance Limited is an Introducer Appointed Representative of Cheshire Mortgage Corporation Limited, which is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority.

www.bridgingfinance.co.uk

BFL0866 - sale and Altrincham chamber advert A4 V4.indd 1 24/11/2014 13:28:14


0161 933 7152




















0161 933 7152




















0161 933 7152




















0161 933 7152



















As the year draws to a close, it is time to reflect on how far we have progressed and developed as a Chamber. My term as President is also drawing to a close and I am fast running out of time.

When I was elected I promised to ‘review and improve the communications and image of the Chamber’. It was a big promise and one I knew could not be achieved by one woman alone. The Chamber team has been fantastic, we have all pulled together to work through difficult times financially and to shape a successful Chamber our members would be proud of.

The Breakfast events schedule has been remodelled and upgraded to include informative and relevant business focussed content; formal lunches reduced in number and we have reintroduced the famous ‘Mixer’ events. The Business Academy was successfully launched with the support of members sharing their skills and will now be a regular feature in our calendar with a focus on supporting start up businesses this year.

The business awards were a huge success with 180 guests attending the event. Sarah Gormley, Tree Communications, secured our new sponsor Virgin Atlantic Airways and has agreed to help organise the 2015 awards and support other events on our calendar.

You may also have noticed our new and improved website courtesy of The Web Studio. David Bellin at the Web Studio has let me loose with a blog and we are also hoping to feature a members’ forum where we can share information and thoughts on any topic between members.

And just in case it has escaped your attention, we have a new look magazine. Our very own Paul Mirage and Jon Cheetham are now producing the Chamber Magazine, Business Vision. We were so impressed with their own publication ‘Trafford Business Connect’ that we asked the boys to work with the Chamber when our contract was due for renewal to help us with this part of our transformation process.

In the words of the great Winston Churchill ‘We make a living by what we get, we make a life by what we give.’

I would like to thank everyone who has given their time, enthusiasm and commitment over the past two years to help and support the Chamber. Whilst I still have items on my ‘wish list’ that I have not even started to bring to fruition, I know the President Elect, Zee Hussain, will commit to the ongoing revitalisation and progress we have made to date.

Here is to our continued success…

WELCOME TO BUSINESS VISIONThe NEW LOOK Altrincham & Sale Chamber

of Commerce Business Magazine

BUSINESS VISION WINTER 2014

3

Inside this issue...4 -11 News from

Chamber Members

12-15 Breakfast Matters TfGM, MMU, Whistl, Trafford Housing Trust

16 Autumn Lunch Darbys / ICO

18-22 Mixers LWA / Greek Kitchen Hale Grill / Alex Hulme Foundation Clarke Art / Handelsbanken Randalls / Jean Juviniere

24-25 Interview Martin Hambleton Photography

26 Report Altrincham’s BID

27 Focus Susan Leigh

28-31 Review Chamber Business Awards 2014

32-33 Member Benefits Loyalty Card Scheme

34-35 Members’ Directory

Forthcoming Events...Breakfast Matters Thursdays 8am - 10am, Best Western Cresta Court Hotel 8 January, 12 February, 5 March

Christmas Lunch Friday 12 December 12noon Mercure Bowdon Hotel Speaker: Linda Wright, Planitwright Consultancy

New Year Lunch Friday 6 February 12noon The Belmore Hotel, Sale Speaker: Graham Brady MP

Raise your profile Advertising and Editorial Opportunities in Business Vision...

Editorial and General EnquiriesAnne Jardine Office Manager

Altrincham & Sale Chamber of Commerce, 17 Regent Road, Altrincham WA14 1RY

0161 941 3250www.altrinchamchamber.co.uk

Sue Aldridge President

PUBLISHED BY Business Connect Publishing Ltd 8 Eastway, Sale, M33 4DX Tel: 0161 969 8632 Email: [email protected]

DESIGNED, EDITED AND PUBLISHED BY Jon Cheetham, Paul Mirage.

ADDITIONAL CONTRIBUTORS Alex Peterson (PixelAir Web Design). Photography by Martin Hambleton. Reporting and Copy by Algy Cole, Colewrite Copywriting.

DISCLAIMER Whilst we have taken all reasonable steps to ensure the accuracy and completeness of the information contained within this magazine, we give no warranty and make no representation regarding the accuracy or the completeness of the content of this information. Consequently we accept no liability for any losses or damage (whether direct, indirect, special, consequential or otherwise) arising out of errors or omissions contained in this magazine. Views expressed in Business Vision in editorial or advertising content are not necessarily those of it’s publisher Business Connect Publishing Limited. The publisher cannot be held responsible for any inaccuracies supplied to us in editorial or advertising material.

P U B L I S H I N G

B U S I N E S S

We offer a comprehensive range of advertising opportunities coupled with a free design and artwork service.

There are series discounts available, and a completely flexible approach to featuring editorial content coupled with display advertising. If you’d like to review any advertising or editorial opportunities simply contact Paul on 07708 987518 ([email protected]) or Jon on 07971 575977 ([email protected]) to discuss your needs.


0161 933 7152




















0161 933 7152




















0161 933 7152



















NEWS


4

National law firm, Stephensons Solicitors LLP, has appointed a new department manager of their Altrincham family team.

Paul Webb, an associate solicitor, has been promoted to the role and will now take the lead for managing, expanding and developing the firm’s Family team in Altrincham, which moved into larger offices at Grosvenor House earlier this year.

After graduating from University and completed the legal practice course, Paul joined Stephensons in 2002 and qualified as a solicitor

nine years ago. As a family law solicitor, he has gained many years of experience in acting for local authorities, parents and children in complex cases including care proceedings, residence and contact disputes and adoption proceedings.

Paul, from Stockport, said: “I am very much looking forward to the opportunities and challenges ahead and to achieving the continued growth and development of the team. We are committed to helping any member of the local community with any family law issues that may arise in respect of themselves or their families.”

Mike Devlin, managing partner of the Family team, said: “I would like to congratulate Paul on his new position. We are delighted to have such an able and enthusiastic person as Paul in place as department manager.”

Blackstone Solicitors in Hale, Cheshire recently celebrated their 4th Anniversary and the launch of a new Property Department. More than 150 guests, gathered at a Marquee event held at their offices on Cecil Road.

Established in 2010, Blackstone Solicitors have continued to expand their services, doubling their turnover each year. The turnover is expected to exceed £1million this year.

Commenting on the event, Managing Director Emma Nawaz said, “We were delighted to welcome so many guests. The evening allowed our team the opportunity to meet so many clients, both current and potential and to really highlight the range of services that we offer. The focus for our practice is commercial litigation and the launch of our new Property section allows us to now expand the business further. I am very proud of what our team has achieved and the genuine passion that they have for the business. We have been very fortunate this year in being nominated for a number of regional and national awards. My thanks go out to our team and for all the guests for joining in our Party Celebrations.”

Managing Partner winIn other news, Andrew Welch, Managing Partner of Stephensons Solicitors LLP, has been named the Managing Partner of the Year at this year’s 360 Legal Conference and Awards.

Andrew was awarded the title by the 360 Legal Group, at its annual dinner on Thursday October 2nd. The judges were looking for evidence of a clear vision and plan that is understood and adopted throughout the firm.

The judges said: “Our winner, who this year celebrates his 20th year at his firm, had forsaken his career as a successful Personal Injury lawyer to become his firm’s full-time managing partner.

Andrew Welch said: “I am delighted to accept this award on behalf of Stephensons. The firm has undergone exceptional growth over the last 12 months and has responded to the challenges faced by law firms in a determined manner.”

Angela Bhaseen will head the Property team at Blackstone and joins the firm from DWF.

Daniel Thomas has been with Blackstone Solicitors for two years and has now been promoted to partner.

Stephensons expands family team in Altrincham

Blackstone Solicitors celebrate their 4th anniversary and the launch of a property department

Andrew Welch, Managing Partner at Stephensons (centre) receives his award

Paul Webb

L-R the Blackstone team Sarah Townsend, Angela Bhaseen, Charlotte Turner, Daniel Thomas, Emma Nawaz, Amanda Houlgrave and Arif Khan


5

Bluebird Care, one of the UK’s leading home care providers has named its Trafford office finalists of its prestigious Business of the Year Award at its tenth annual awards held in Warwickshire.

With almost 200 offices across the country offering the highest quality home care to customers, owner of Bluebird Care Trafford, Ian Helsby, was recognised for his outstanding service in the home care industry, as well as his business’s role in contributing to the 20,000 care visits carried out by Bluebird Care every day.

Bluebird Care is dedicated to ensuring that people have the option to receive high quality care in their own homes, and its committed and enthusiastic business owners like Ian Helsby have been instrumental in helping the business to establish itself as one of the fastest-growing care companies in the UK.

Commenting, Bluebird Care Chief Operating Officer, Simon Dalziel said: “Bluebird Care has been delivering high quality care to thousands of customers at home for over a decade, and I’m thrilled to recognise the hard work Ian Helsby and his

team have been doing in Trafford. They provide the highest standards of care to our customers and are leading the field in delivering a high quality service that goes above and beyond on every single visit.”

Commenting, owner of Bluebird Care Trafford, Ian Helsby said: “We’re delighted to be recognised for all the outstanding work we’ve been doing for our private and NHS customers in Trafford. Being recognised with this award is incredibly special. Our office management team and our care workers take huge pride in the job they do, delivering the best possible service to all of our customers in Altrincham, Sale, Stretford and Urmston, and that’s really reflected in this award today.”

Bluebird Care Trafford wins top award

L-R Ian Helsby of Bluebird Care Trafford receiving his award from COO Simon Dalziel

Following a major refurbishment programme over the last year, the independently owned Best Western Cresta Court Hotel in Altrincham has now become the latest organisation in the UK, and the very first hotel in Greater Manchester, to gain national recognition for its commitment to customer service, after being awarded WorldHost Recognised Business status.

WorldHost is a world-class customer service training programme that has already been used to train nearly 150,000 people in the UK, including tens of thousands of staff and volunteers for the London 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games.

WorldHost Recognised Business status is awarded to businesses that have trained 50% or more of their frontline staff using any of the WorldHost training programmes, and signed a commitment to delivering excellent customer service. With over 50% of its staff now trained to WorldHost standards, the Cresta Court has joined 400 other UK hotels in officially becoming a WorldHost Recognised Business.

Altrincham is working towards becoming the first town in England to become known as a ‘WorldHost Recognised Destination’, excelling in its service and offering for visitors to the town. In order to achieve the WorldHost destination status, 25% of Altrincham’s businesses need to train their workforce to WorldHost Recognised Business standards; something the Cresta Court has now achieved.

On receiving the recognition, general manager Paul Hindley commented: “We are passionate about service standards and are especially proud to be the first Hotel in Greater Manchester to achieve the WorldHost Recognised Business status.”

When our customers see the WorldHost logo displayed in our business, they’ll know that we have made a commitment to delivering an exceptional experience for them.”

The WorldHost programme is being rolled out across the UK by skills and workforce development charity, People 1st, to help businesses gain a competitive edge and position the nation as a world-class tourist destination. More information about WorldHost training can be found at www.worldhost.co.uk

L-R WorldHost trainees Gemma Atkinson, Adele Hankinson, Ricki Harrison, General Manager Paul Hindley, Jacey McKay and Ellen Dentith

Best Western Cresta Court awarded WorldHost Recognised Business status

NEWS


Recently Sue Aldridge, Chamber President, had the pleasure of attending the 100th birthday celebration of Elsie Emily Moor, which was held at the Altrincham Conservative Club.

Sue said: “I was joined by Denise Laver, the Provost of Altrincham and John Holden, the Deputy Mayor of Trafford. Denise gave a great speech (as usual) and presented Elsie with the Silver Lion Certificate in recognition of her active contribution to Altrincham over the years.

“I was privileged to present Elsie with her letter from the Queen and also her letter from the House of Commons. After lots of photographs by Martin Hambleton, we were treated to Flamenco dancers and a great buffet.

“Elsie’s grandfather was Charles Griffin, a coal merchant in Altrincham and was a member of the Chamber. The Chamber began as the Altrincham Retailers Association and all retail businesses were encouraged to join. Her mother’s grandfather was John Arnold (this was over 100 years ago).

“The family owned land in Altrincham including Arnolds Yard (which is now a housing development behind the Old Market Tavern - next to the Orange Tree on Old Market Place). Apparently he was a founder member of the Chamber.

“It was a great afternoon and Elsie partied long into the evening. Not bad for 100!”

Elsie receiving her telegram from the Queen courtesy of President Sue Aldridge

Elsie with Denise Laver, Provost of Altrincham

Chamber’s link to the pastCongratulations to Elsie who is celebrating her 100th Birthday

The teams at Slater Heelis LLP and Mohindra Maini Solicitors are delighted to have joined forces with one another with effect from the beginning of August this year.

Mohindra Maini was started 18 years ago by Sunil Mohindra and his wife Meera Maini in the City of Manchester. The practice specialises in commercial work including mergers, acquisitions and sales, banking, inward and outward investment, litigation and property transactions.

Sunil says, “The move to incorporating the Mohindra Maini practice into Slater Heelis brings a well-established and respected law firm’s extensive range of services to our current clients. I am also pleased that the entire team of Mohindra Maini will be working within the new practice.”

Chris Bishop, Managing Partner of Slater Heelis says, “We’re delighted to announce that Sunil, Meera and the full team have agreed to join forces with Slater Heelis. Sunil and his team have a fantastic reputation in Manchester. Their expertise, clients and contacts when added to Slater

Manchester law firm Mohindra Maini joins Slater Heelis LLP

L-R: Sunil Mohindra, Chris Bishop, Meera Maini

Heelis’ full service offering in Manchester and Trafford will create an even stronger practice.”

Slater Heelis LLP has origins dating back as far as 1773 and the firm will now have six offices across the Northwest.

Elsie with Councillor John Holden, Deputy Mayor

6


7

Robyn Saphier is Chafes’ first Legal Services apprentice. A Legal Services Apprenticeship is an excellent way for young people to combine studying with learning the practical aspects of the law. Joining the firm earlier this year, Robyn has become an invaluable member of the team working closely with Gail Carberry, Head of Residential Conveyancing.

Robyn said, “I always wanted to be a solicitor. I went to college but felt it wasn’t for me and I was never interested in being a full time university student. I prefer to experience things ‘hands-on’ which is what this apprenticeship is allowing me to do.

“Conveyancing is really fast paced so everything has to be organised and accurate. I don’t have a ‘typical day’ in the office but would say there is never a dull moment. My role varies from typing documents to making phone calls to clients or estate agents and I’ve even had the opportunity to speak to clients directly. I never thought I would be doing that at this early stage. It’s like I’ve been thrown in right at the deep end but I am really enjoying it.

“I start at Manchester Metropolitan University this month, studying one day a week which will allow me to learn the theory to support the practical experience I am getting and my long term goal is to qualify as a solicitor specialising in conveyancing.”

Gail Carberry said, “Robyn joined the team at a very busy time for the firm but she has really thrown herself into office work and the conveyancing process. She is positive and enthusiastic in her approach to all the tasks she is asked to do and fits really well into the team. I’m looking forward to seeing her develop as she embarks on her legal career path.”

Three more recruitsIn additional news joining the team at the Alderley Edge office are Christopher Hughes and Lisa Parkin. Christopher joins from Wains Solicitors in Macclesfield and has over eight years experience, specialising in residential property. Lisa was called to the Bar in 2008 before cross-qualifying as a solicitor in 2011 with Cantor Law Limited. Lisa is joining Chafes’ Investment Property department which works primarily with property portfolio investors.

Laura Farndon also joins from DWF and brings over three years experience. Laura specialises in commercial property and will be based at Chafes’ Wilmslow office.

Managing Partner Jon Roberts said “Christopher, Lisa and Laura bring a wealth of expertise with them. As we grow, we wanted to be sure we are still able to deliver the same high quality service we are known for.”

Chafes takes on its first legal services apprentice

L-R Laura Farndon, Christopher Hughes and Lisa Parkin

Robyn Saphier

There will be an Open Day at the new Community Sports Hall

at the J. Davidson Stadium on Sunday 14 December.

It is envisaged that, on matchdays, the entire hall space

will be open as a bar, though licensing regulations prohibit

spectators from actually watching matches on the pitch from

there. The Hall can be entered either from a door opposite

the current Noel White door or from an entrance adjacent to

the existing refreshment bar, at the Golf Road End.

Consultations are taking place with supporters about the

decor of the Hall and there will be at least two televisions

installed for pre- and post-match viewing.

Bookings have already been taken for the Sports Hall from a range of activities and the space is also available to be hired for functions. The Club’s BTEC course students will also be housed in the new building.

Every booking will help the Club’s finances. For further details about the facilities and services on offer, please contact Stacey Rowley at the football club 0161 928 1045

Altrincham Football Club Open Day announced

NEWS


8

Altrincham commercial law firm, Myerson is delighted to announce the appointments of Jane Tenquist, Chris Porter and Joanne Perritt as Partners with effect from 1 September 2014. The firm now has 13 Partners and a total of 31 Solicitors.

Jane has been in practice for 25 years as a Family Law specialist and set up the Family Law department at Myerson in 2012. She is also an accredited Family Mediator and a Collaborative Lawyer.

Altrincham based Property Company, Property Perspective are continuing to expand with both the Part Exchange and Agency Assist services.

Recently Eccleston Homes have appointed them to sell their Meadow View development located in Rainford near St Helens. The site consists of 15 properties offering a collection of 3, 4 & 5 bed detached homes from Eccleston Homes’ brand new ‘Arts and Crafts’ range.

Launched in 2008 by John Jarvis, Property Perspective has doubled the business each year working with many of the national house builders throughout the North West, Midlands and Yorkshire including Redrow, Taylor Wimpey and Morris Homes.

Commenting on the continued expansion of Property

department.

Carl Newton, Managing Partner at Myerson, said: “The appointment of Jane, Chris and Jo is thoroughly well deserved! Their appointment follows another exciting year of growth at Myerson. The commitment and experience of lawyers like Jane, Chris and Jo has propelled the firm forward. Annual turnover has increased by 27% over the last year and the firm is very busy in all departments. We anticipate that we will be recruiting more lawyers over the next year.”

New relationship with MGH Brown

In other news Myerson has advised MGH Bowen Ltd in connection with Breedon Aggregates England Limited’s investment in H.V. Bowen & Sons (Holdings) Ltd which operates a grit stone quarry at Tan-y-Foel, Welshpool, Powys. The quarry was first developed in the early 1940s and today it supplies a variety of aggregates and ready mixed concrete.

The investment will enable the quarry, operated by the new joint venture, to grow and embark on a period of expansion. It aims to achieve this by supplying new customers and new products.

The team from Myerson was led by Andrew Brown (Corporate/Commercial) with assistance from Angela Wood and Tamsin Sawyer. Property and employment aspects of the transaction, were dealt with by Chris Porter (Property) and Jo Henderson (Employment). Whittingham Riddell LLP also advised MGH Bowen Ltd in relation to accounting and tax matters.

Mark Bowen commented “Myerson’s expertise across the spectrum of legal advice needed with this relatively complex matter simplified the process and they were a pleasure to work with.”

Perspective, John Jarvis said, “We are delighted with this latest appointment by Eccleston Homes. We strongly believe that our unique approach allows us to facilitate sells and achieve the highest prices. Our team have a wealth of experience within the industry. To compliment the Part Exchange and Agency Assist services we also have an Estate Agency In Altrincham handling Sales and lettings.”

Director of Eccleston Homes, Gary Buckley added, “We are pleased to be working with John and the team on this latest development. Our mission is to produce homes of the best design and quality of component and construction, combined with the widest customer choice. Who we choose as a partner to assist us is essential. We know that Property Perspective rather like ourselves focus on personal service ensuring that our clients receive great satisfaction.”

Myerson appoint new partners

Property Perspective are appointed by Eccleston Homes

L-R Chris Porter, Joanne Perritt and Jane Tenquist

Chris joined Myerson in 2004 from Addleshaw Goddard and specialises in Commercial Property and Agricultural Law. In 2013, Chris successfully completed the Agricultural Law Association Fellowship examination and is now a proud Fellow of the Agricultural Law Association.

Joanne joined Myerson in 2007 from DLA Piper and specialises in Commercial Property with a particular expertise in insolvency and corporate recovery matters. Joanne also heads up Myerson’s Prestige Residential Conveyancing

A Regional law firm with Global reachUK International Lawyers are experts in their field with over 21 years of experience to assist you with excellent levels of service for your everyday personal and business needs.

Our Partners are experienced Barristers and Solicitors. We have a team of highly trained, approachable and friendly professionals and pride ourselves in providing practical, specialist and cost effective solutions for our clients.

• Commercial and Corporate

• Contentious Trust and Probate

• Fraud, including

HMRC Investigations

• Corporate Housing

and Relocation

• Life and Health Insurance

• Business Immigration

• Family Mediation

• Family and Matrimonial

• Dispute Resolution

• Landlord and Tenant

• Debt Recovery

• Personal Injury

• Employment

• Immigration

and Asylum

Our services

CALL US NOW IN COMPLETE CONFIDENCE

10% FEE DISCOUNTon production of

this advert(quote code

A&SC1)

Office Hours 9.00am - 5.00pm Monday - Friday

Out of Hours Mobile 07581 042056

Tel 0161 376 4525 Fax 0161 376 4626

UK International Lawyers, 637 Princess Road, Princess Parkway, Withington, Manchester M20 1HH

Email [email protected]

www.ukinternationallawyers.co.uk

NEWS


Trafford Council is taking to the high street in its efforts to ensure eligible retail businesses are aware of, and benefiting from, the new business rate relief scheme introduced in April 2014. This is part of its commitment to support local high street businesses and its town centres.

The scheme means all eligible occupied retail premises with a rateable value of £50,000 or less are eligible to business rate relief of £1,000 a year for the 2014/15 and 2015/16 financial years. Council officers visited businesses in Stretford Mall a few months ago to advise them of the scheme and encourage them to sign up.

Eligible premises are those which are wholly or mainly being used as shops, restaurants, cafes and pubs. The relief is not available for financial services (e.g. banks, building societies and betting shops etc.), medical services (e.g. vets, dentists, doctors etc.), professional services (e.g. solicitors, accountants, financial advisors etc.), Post Office sorting office and other services (e.g. estate agents, letting agents and employment agencies).

Executive Councillor Patrick Myers said: “The Council is committed to supporting all its local high street businesses. Trafford has excellent town centres offering local people and visitors a good choice of shopping opportunities and this is something we continue to build on.

“Making sure all eligible businesses take advantage of this rate relief is another way of ensuring the future of our high streets as shopping destinations.”

Any businesses wanting more information or to clarify whether they are eligible for this relief need look no further than the Council. They can contact the Business Rates department by telephoning 0161 912 2346 or via email [email protected] for free advice and guidance. Alternatively they can apply online at www.trafford.gov.uk/retailrelief

Trafford Council demonstrates its support to high street businesses

Trafford Trading Standards have introduced an early warning

system to alert local companies to scams and rip-offs aimed

specifically aimed at businesses – iBAN – this stands for

“informed Business Alert Network”

iBAN is a messaging system intended for businesses in the

community who would like to be made aware of the latest

cons and scams. Anyone can become a member of iBAN.

You can receive information by pre-recorded phone message

or email. You can choose one method or both depending on

your preference. For telephone messages there is an option

to have the message repeated and select the times of day you wish to be contacted.

Members use the information to keep themselves and other businesses protected.

Membership of IBAN is FREE

For more information about iBAN please contact Julia Bentley, Senior Fair Trading Office directly on 0161 912 3841 or 07739 856721, or email [email protected].

Alternatively visit www.trafford.gov.uk/iban

IBAN early warning system launched

10

Join the fastest growing business forum in Manchester with our FREE B2B Magazine• News and events All the latest business news from across Manchester

• Focus stories In-depth reviews featuring local successful businesses

• Comment Articles on milestone business activities

• Networking Reviews of events and upcoming dates for your diary

• Places to meet Venues and facilities supporting business across Manchester

• Advertising Fantastic deals and campaign offers available

• Professional features Features on running your business successfully

How are you promoting your business?

traffbizconnectwww.traffordbusinessconnect.co.uk

Apprenticeships

roll out across

Trafford

Two-page special on the importance of

new apprenticeship opportunities for

employers across the borough

Small

business

growth

Brand new government

initiative available for SME’s

wanting to grow

Plans for

Altrincham

The final stages of Altrincham’s high

street re-birth are revealed

Airport City

takes off

Huge marketing push

takes flight over

Manchester Airport’s

brand new

business hub

Introducing

the new look

family firm

In-depth interview with brother and sister

entrepreneurs James and Sylvia Foster

who look to be taking up Stretford’s

planned retail challenge

Inside this issue...

News Trafford focus Airport City review Legal Finance Social media

Apprenticeships Dates Networking Appointments Listings Venues

October 2013

www.traffordbusinessconnect.co.uktraffbizconnectTRAFFORD BUSINESS

connect

CONNECTING BUSINESSES ACROSS TRAFFORD

TRAFFORD’S NEW FREE* BUSINESS TO BUSINESS MAGAZINE

*Subscription delivery fees apply.

See page 3 for details

MUFC score with their

Partington pledge

Manchester United Foundation kick off their latest Street Reds

project in Partington offering employment opportunities to

help engage young people in underprivileged areas.

Your museum needs you!

The Imperial War Museum North are seeking the

support of Trafford businesses to help mark

the centenary of the first world war.

Chancellor unzips

newest ZipYard

Successful Altrincham business ZipYard opened their latest

alterations and tailoring centre in Wilmslow with a little help

from Chancellor of the Exchequer George Osborne.

One man’s legacy

to Altrincham

Nick Payne from Nikal shares his dream

of helping to regenerate Altrincham with

a £75million scheme for the town centre.

Joining forces

Slater Heelis LLP and Cottrills bring two

of Manchester’s longest established law

firms together in a merger that will

attract new business to the region.

Airport City

takes offJoint venture announced on £800million development

at Manchester International Airport. Charlie Cornish,

Chief Executive of Manchester Airport Group,

reveals the major players.

Inside this issue... Business News Cresta Court ZipYard Airport City

Social Media Insurance Financing Trade Marks Copywriting

Wellbeing Q&A Diary Dates Places to Meet Business Services...

January/February 2014

www.traffordbusinessconnect.co.uk traffbizconnect

TRAFFORD BUSINESS

connect


TRAFFORD’S NEW FREE BUSINESS TO BUSINESS MAGAZINE

Charlie Cornish,

Chief Executive of

Manchester Airport Group

connectApril /May 2014

www.traffordbusinessconnect.co.uk traffbizconnect

TRAFFORD BUSINESSTRAFFORD’S NEW FREE BUSINESS TO BUSINESS MAGAZINE

Sharon Johnson, Bruntwood’s Head of

Regional Sales outside Trafford House

Inside this issue... Business News Bruntwood Trafford Park Blogging

Auto Enrolment Tax Banking Press Releases Wellbeing Property

Diary Dates Places to Meet Business Services...


Funding opportunities for

new Trafford businessesReview a great range of start-up loans available for local

businesses keen to grow in the borough.

New business network

launched by Trafford’s young entrepreneursTrafford’s next generation of business people ask

the borough’s business community for their support

with ‘Infinity’ - a brand new business network.

Putting Trafford Park on the mapNetworking in the City launch a new initiative bringing the Trafford

Park business community together. Full review inside of the first

networking lunch that took part in MediaCityUK.

Cresta Court snaps

up a great evening

As part of their 40th anniversary celebrations

the Cresta Court Hotel hosted a grand opening

for their new photography exhibition covering

iconic moments in the business and

community history of Altrincham.

Bruntwood campaign supports businesses in Old TraffordBruntwood’s Head of Regional Sales Sharon Johnson reveals their

plans for helping business growth in Old Trafford, plus gives an

exclusive insight into one of Manchester’s iconic brands.

connectAugust/September 2014

www.traffordbusinessconnect.co.uktraffbizconnect

TRAFFORD BUSINESS

TRAFFORD’S FREE BUSINESS TO BUSINESS MAGAZINE

Elizabeth Vega, CEO of Informed Solutions, pictured outside their Altrincham Headquarters at the Old Bank House

Inside this issue... Business News Trafford Business Expo 2014 LCCC T20

Trafford Park Informed Solutions Trafford Pledge Social Media

Franchising Finance Wellbeing Diary Dates Places to Meet... CONNECTING BUSINESSES ACROSS TRAFFORD

Trafford PledgeOfficial launch of the Trafford Pledge took place on 7 July with Sean Anstee, Leader of Trafford Council inviting local businesses and supporters to officially sign up. Full report inside.

Putting Trafford Business Expo on the mapFull report on the Trafford Business Expo 2014 on July 1 at The Point, Emirates Old Trafford.

Blasted for 6!Coverage of LCCC’s new approach to marketing their Natwest T20 Blast cricket season. Review of an evening’s cricket with a difference!

Building stronger links with Trafford ParkFull report on a third successful networking lunch bringing Trafford Park businesses together with presentations from Peel Holdings and TfGM.

Informed SolutionsDiscover a hidden jewel of an SME nestled in the heart of AltrinchamSituated in one of Altrincham’s iconic buildings are the headquarters of global IT and management consultants Informed Solutions. Trafford Business Connect caught up with CEO and notable SME thought leader Elizabeth Vega for an in-depth interview.

connectOctober/November 2014

www.traffordbusinessconnect.co.uktraffbizconnect

TRAFFORD BUSINESS

PICK UP YOUR FREE BUSINESS TO BUSINESS MAGAZINE

Simon Kossoff, CEO of Carluccio’s, pictured outside their

latest restaurant opening in the heart of Hale village

Inside this issue... Business News Carluccio’s ZipYard Non-standard risks

pro-manchester Trust Development Forever Manchester Finance

Social Media Web Design Wellbeing Diary Dates Places to Meet...

CONNECTING BUSINESSES ACROSS MANCHESTER

pro-manchester sets target of £1mIn his inaugural address at Manchester Central Library new

Chairman John Jones sets out his targets for pro-manchester,

including a turnover of £1m by 2016.Celebrating 10 years of lending

Cheadle based Auction Finance mark a decade of lending to

businesses by hosting a unique chaired debate. They invite BBC’s

Bill Turnbull to discuss the auction market today.

Insurance for everyoneFeature article on Sale’s SIS Insurance and how

they’re fighting the corner on non-standard risks.

Building a national brandFull report on a presentation by Euro Garages Commercial

Director, Ilyas Munshi, on how to build a successful

national brand. Read about the event hosted at HSBC’s

Spinningfields HQ by TiE UK North.

Undercover Boss arrives in HaleCarluccio’s - one of the UK’s fastest growing restaurant chains

- opens a brand new site in the heart of Hale.

Read an exclusive interview with CEO Simon Kossoff,

fresh from his recent TV debut on Channel 4’s Undercover Boss.

advertise – Call us now for deals on advertising and editorial opportunities

subscribe – visit our website to get your name on our subscription list

TRAFFORD BUSINESS

connectPaul Mirage 07708 987518

Jon Cheetham 07971 575977

DISTRIBUTED TO OVER30,000BUSINESSREADERS


11

Trafford College has been selected to provide exclusive Apprenticeship vacancies in Hospitality for one of Manchester’s newest luxury hotels. The new partnership with ‘Hotel Football’ will see a number of exclusive Apprenticeship vacancies created for students who are looking to kick start their careers in Hospitality in the areas of Front of House and Chef.

Hotel Football, the new four-star hotel located next door to Manchester United’s football ground, is co-owned by ex-Manchester United footballers Ryan Giggs and Gary Neville. The new Apprenticeship programmes will allow students to learn from experienced professionals in the industry, whilst enabling candidates to make their mark on the exciting new addition to Manchester’s skyline.

The programmes, which will be delivered in the world class facilities offered at the impressive hotel, will guide successful applicants through a range of essential training areas, giving them the skills and knowledge to succeed in one of the world’s fastest growing industries.

Courses are specifically designed to deliver advanced training and qualifications for individuals who are looking to be employed within the industry. Gary Neville recently

Apprentices on target for a bright futurecommitted to signing the Trafford Pledge on behalf of the Hotel Football team. The signing demonstrates the team’s commitment to providing work experience placements, apprenticeships and full time jobs to young people from Trafford and the surrounding areas. Hotel Football is due to open in December.

For full details from Trafford College on this exciting opportunity or for further information about apprenticeship vacancies from their dedicated ‘Trafford First’ Recruitment Service, please contact Sam Sargeant on 0161 886 7461 or email [email protected]

L-R Sam Sargeant, Nigel Gaskell, Bill Moorcroft, Billy Jones, Gary Neville, Hotel Football MD Stuart Procter and Lola Docherty.

BREAKFAST MATTERS

Linking Trafford Park


12

7 August saw the Chamber welcoming Philip Hanes – Metrolink Trafford Park Line Stakeholder Manager – giving a presentation of the new developments on Altrincham’s Interchange, plus the proposed Trafford Park line which at the time was under public consultation.

Philip started by reviewing the current activity within our Metrolink system “To start, I’ve got an update on the Interchange. As you know, the footbridge was craned in this April, and work has progressed with an estimated completion date at the end of 2014.

“The original Metrolink system ran from Bury to Altrincham, and since 2008 we’ve extended out to Rochdale, Oldham, Ashton under Lyne and East Didsbury. Currently under construction is the 14km link out to the Airport (which is now

complete and running – Ed) and the 2nd City Crossing across Manchester.

“TfGM has identified funding through central government which will take us through Trafford Park to the Trafford Centre.”

Philip then presented a series of statistics about the proposed route and detailed the feasibility of the line. He stated “The principal objective to run a line through Trafford Park is to link people with employment opportunities. There are currently 1,300 businesses there, with over 33,000 people working in the area. All supported by a very poor level of public transport.

“Also, with the emphasis on vehicle use, events like the

Ideal Home Show at Event City saw 30,000 visitors using the local roads over the weekend, which caused serious gridlock and other problems. In addition, another notable venue in the area is Old Trafford Football Ground, which also regularly causes problems to the local road system.”

Philip then went on to make his case for supporting Trafford Park line, and to encourage Chamber members to complete submissions to the public consultation to give them a say on the process. (the consultation is now closed – Ed).

Hosting the event on behalf of the Chamber was Chairman Tony Collier, who also presented the business card prize draw winner Andy Long from Stonehouse Logic with his free dinner for two at Cresta Court’s Dettori’s restaurant.

7 • 8 • 14

Philip Hanes, Stakeholder Manager, TfGM with Chairman Tony Collier

Do you want the publicity, but don’t have time to write it?

You want an article in Trafford Business Connect and elsewhere.

You want to get your message across,

to inform and persuade.But you just don’t have the time to write it yourself.

This is where ColeWrite Copywriting comes in.

I can write about your business in a way that will propel you to the front of people’s attention.

Whether you give me a blank sheet, a rough draft or a finished piece, I can make the words work for you. I can do it for this magazine – or anywhere else you want the attention?

Give me a call on 07912 374220 to put your company’s products and services into the spotlight they deserve. www.colewrite.com


13

It was classic early autumnal weather for the Chamber’s September Breakfast Matters - early mist, clearing into a warm day.

The Cresta Court Hotel helped this good start with its bacon rolls, coffee and juice. It was also a chance to use their newly refurbished conference room.

President Sue Aldridge introduced the first speaker, Paul Deaville of the Manchester Metropolitan University (MMU). Paul works in the University’s Centre for Enterprise; his subject: Goldman Sachs’ “10,000 Small Business Programme”. This provides truly impressive support for exactly the Chamber’s type of business: SMEs employing 5 -100 people who want to grow.

The Programme is worldwide, which MMU manages in the North West on behalf of Goldman Sachs. Senior business owners or their managers spend six months on a part-time basis looking at all aspects of running a successful business. There are three features about the Programme that shine out Firstly, the course does not use a hypothetical case-study business - it focuses on your own business, with real products, strategy and people. Secondly, you can’t do it if you have done an MBA. It’s meant for real people, and thirdly - it’s free!

Paul gave some figures. There are two “Cohorts” a year and they are currently recruiting for Cohort 9, with usually over 100 applying for only 30 places (final selection takes place in New York). 270 business leaders from over 85 Northwest SMEs have gone through the Programme, and after taking part the typical business growth is 50% or more.

For Sole Traders, there is the complementary “Knowledge Action Network”. This acts as a foundation course, preparing them for when their business becomes eligible for the main Programme. Paul clearly had our attention and interest and there were many questions. (Plus a queue of people to see him afterwards.)

Sue was the second speaker, and updated us on Chamber happenings. We have been working with Altrincham Forward on their entry into the World Host Programme. This recognises excellent customer service, and the Chamber has

been helping our friends make their bid a winning one.

The third programme concerns the re-start of the Chamber’s Business Academy. To make sure it delivers what members need, we needed to submit our three most important challenges. From these, Sue and the team can create an Academy Programme that will be highly relevant to the demands of our businesses.

Lastly, but always well received, was the business card draw for the Dinner for Two in Cresta Court’s Dettori’s Restaurant. Zee Hussein of Colemans-ctts won it.

4 • 9 • 14

Paul Deaville, Enterprise Partnerships Fellow, MMU with President Sue Aldridge

Thinking of letting . . . ?

*Terms and conditions apply

We are offering 3 months free management service including

free rent guarantee*

Call today for your free valuation

Chartered Surveyors and Valuers • Property and Business Consultants • Chartered Town Planners

www.berryslettings.co.ukKnutsford 01565 745 110

Regulated bythe RICS

Growing your business with Goldman Sachs

BREAKFAST MATTERS


14

If you drive along Brooklands Road towards Sale, you will often see cyclists in orange uniforms, with large orange panniers. At October’s breakfast meeting, we learnt who they were and what they are doing.

It was a rainy, chilly Autumnal morning, when some 50 members and guests gathered at the Cresta Court Hotel, with busy roads causing delays. Hot coffee and bacon rolls did the trick and the traffic issues were soon forgotten, with the room settling in to some productive networking.

President Sue Aldridge called us to order and introduced the morning’s two speakers, Jack Hughes of Whistl and Town Centre Officer for Trafford Council and Altrincham Forward, Hazel Kimmitt.

From Jack, we found out who the orange cyclists were. They are a few of the 2,000 Whistl posties who are delivering mail to the doorstep. Whistl was formerly the postal division of TNT, who could deliver their client mail only into Royal Mail distribution centres. But with increased deregulation, non-Royal Mail posties can now take to the streets, so Whistl was formed to provide this alternative post delivery service. They currently operate in London, Manchester and Liverpool but aim to become a national competitor to the Royal Mail.

Whistl are looking to grow their workforce to 20,000 in five years, taking a 58% share of the non-Royal Mail delivery market. It’s an ambitious target, but Jack was confident they could deliver. (NB. This was one of a number of atrocious puns about whistling, etc., aided, abetted and led by Sue. And beware – Whistl plays havoc with spell-checkers).

Next was Hazel Kimmitt from Altrincham Forward, talking about Altrincham’s successful bid to become a BID (“Business Improvement District”). This is a Government supported initiative to help town centres develop projects that improve the look, feel and spirit of the town. In summary, a BID is a business-led initiative. It is based on a business plan

developed by local companies to improve trade and business conditions.

Businesses in the BID area stay in control. Firstly, they identify the initiatives they feel are needed to improve the town. These form the basis of a Business Plan. The businesses then formally vote to decide if they want it to happen, with some taking a role in the independent company created to deliver the agreed plan.

If the vote is carried, a mandatory levy is raised on all BID businesses. This is typically 1-1.5% of revenue, up to a set limit. In Altrincham’s case, the funds will be about £200,000 a year, with the likeliest projects being to improve the environment, filling the empty shops and better publicity. Hazel urged us to take part in the BID, and to read the letter sent to all local businesses in September.

It was time for more light hearted business – the business card draw for the Dinner for Two in Cresta Court’s Dettori’s Restaurant. Steven Murtagh, Sales Director at Jean Juviniere Ltd was the lucky winner.

9 • 10 • 14

Whistl tune up to take on the post office

Hazel Kimmitt from Altrincham Forward

Lauren Montgomery, Sales Executive from the Best Western Cresta Court Hotel with Steven Murtagh, Jean Juviniere Ltd.

Trafford Housing Trust share Social Values


15

Early November brings several things. Guy Fawkes Night; clocks going back; winds and rain; and the show about modest, quietly talented team-playing business people – “The Apprentice.” Back in the real world of business, Members at the Chamber’s November Breakfast Matters were reassuringly professional and level headed.

The attentiveness to the guest presentation demonstrated this. President Sue Aldridge introduced Aine Graven from Trafford Housing Trust (THT). We think of THT as the manager of 9,000 homes across Trafford. But Aine showed us another side to THT – the creation of social value and helping local businesses to do the same. She gave some examples:

• THT works with local companies to provide business and skills training, reducing unemployment in whole communities.

• Their ‘CleanStart’ service, which prepares vacated houses for re-occupation, employs ex-offenders, giving them a chance of meaningful work.

• THT manage the ‘Pro Bono Bank’. Companies use this to provide voluntary organisations with an hour’s free business support.

Increasingly, Social Value, as well as Value for Money, will be a criteria for public sector contracts. THT can help local businesses achieve this by facilitating apprenticeships, work experience and links to Trafford’s jobless.

Aine made it clear that social value is increasingly a factor of business value and that THT are here to help. Her talk was inspiring and certainly woke up those non-morning members.

Also present was Theresa Grant, Trafford Council’s Chief Executive, who was introduced to say a few words on the work of THT and also the Chamber.

Sue then updated on recent and future events. She had high praise for the Chamber’s annual Business Awards in October. More popular than ever, they had been a great success. Much of this was down to Anne Jardine, our resourceful Office Manager, and Sue thanked her on our behalf.

She talked about forthcoming events between now and Christmas, including an evening Mixer, another Breakfast Matters and a Christmas lunch (a more genteel version of the office party). As always, all details are on the website.

The Cresta Court Hotel continues to actively support the Chamber and always provides a welcome breakfast. They also award a Dinner for Two in their Dettori’s Restaurant as the prize for the monthly business card draw. November’s was won by the well known, extremely competent and charming copywriter, Algy Cole of Colewrite Copywriting (well done Algy! - Ed).

6 • 11 • 14Aine Graven,

Trafford Housing Trust

Theresa Grant, Chief Executive Trafford Council

Don’t allow long-standing debts to adversely affect your business

Telephone: 0161 962 4695

For all your credit management requirements Premium Collections Limited have the solution. Operating on a national and international basis we can tailor a package of services to meet your requirements. Staffed by dedicated professionals with over 50 years combined experience of handling virtually every type of debt issue.

For a detailed discussion on how we can help your business or for a quotation for any of our services please do not hesitate to contact:

Paul Daine, Managing DirectorPO Box 448, Altrincham, Cheshire WA15 7WPFax: 0333 121 3843Email: [email protected]: www.premiumcollections.co.uk

DEBT COLLECTION STATUS REPORTING ABSCONDER TRACING VEHICLE REPOSSESSIONS


16

AUTUMN LUNCH

Data Protection at the Mere The Chamber’s Autumn Lunch took us further afield, to the Mere Golf Resort and Spa. It’s always an impressive location and the lunch brought the week to a tasteful end.

Darbys Solicitors were our hosts. After Zee Hussain of Colemans ctts welcomed us (deputising for Sue Aldridge, our President), Andrew Rimmer of Darbys told us a little about what they can offer. They are a full service legal company, with 14 specialist areas. (This includes Equestrian, for any horse related matters). Andrew described their new advice services, Blue Law and Purple Legal. Registering on their websites gives you telephone access to legal advice from any of the 14 specialist areas. Andrew stressed that both registration and advice is free and you can join and leave at any time. If their free advice then leads to formal case work, you will be offered a no-obligation quote. The clear lesson was: don’t look this gift horse in the mouth.

Andrew’s talk was giving us an appetite and we turned

our full attention to a Mere Resort lunch. As you would expect, it was worth the wait. Having eaten well and taking coffee, we welcomed four new members to the Chamber. Michelle Starling of Bean & Brush Art Café, James Reilly of Ralli Solicitors, Pete Vernon of Rapid Response IT and Sarah Gormley of Tree Communications all received their certificates and warm applause.

Next was our main speaker of the lunch, Richard Syers of the Information Commissioner’s Office (ICO). Richard updated us on Data Protection legislation and the likely changes over the next three years. These are:

• It will probably become more prescriptive than advisory.

• Companies will need to fully demonstrate compliance.

• Privacy needs to be built into projects from the start: “privacy by design”.

• Companies may need a designated data protection officer.

• Greater emphasis will be placed on the use of Privacy Seals.

Having spoken, Richard answered several questions. It was clear we understood the need for data protection and our obligations towards our customers. However, there was strong feeling that whilst consumers were better protected against the misuse of their data, businesses were not. We want the ICO to regulate more stringently the unsolicited emails, texts and phone calls that we in businesses constantly receive nowadays.

The lunch was drawing to a close, so Zee reminded us of the forthcoming events and we returned to chatting and networking with our friends in the Chamber.

12 • 9 • 14

L-R Sarah Gormley, Tree Communications, Pete Vernon, Rapid Response IT, Zee Hussain, Colemans ctts, James Reilly, Ralli Solicitors, Michelle Starling, Bean and Brush Café.

Service terminates 28th March 2015

CHAMBER MIXERS


18

23 • 7 • 14

LWA sponsor the Chamber to a Greek Feast

“The Greek Kitchen” in Sale was just the right place for the Chamber’s first “Mixer” of 2014. It was hot outside (like Greece) with air-conditioning inside (which was very appreciated), and as we arrived, the delicious aromas were the perfect welcome to a most enjoyable event ahead.

The Chamber’s Mixers are the end-of-the-day equivalent to Breakfast Matters, but with wine instead of coffee. The event this evening was sponsored by Leavitt Walmsley Associates (LWA) and hosted by The Greek Kitchen.

As members arrived a warm welcome was offered in the form of a glass of bubbly, and the opportunity to pick a world-cup country out of a hat (LWA’s attempt to give England a second chance given their early departure from the recently concluded football tournament) - this gave members the chance to win a bottle of Lanson Champagne or a meal for two at the restaurant.

After some welcome drinks, President Sue Aldridge briefed us on the Chamber’s involvement in several initiatives: our own Training Academy; support for Altrincham Forward (and the possibilities of a Sale version); our work with the Business Neighbourhood Plan; and our brand new website, which will host a forthcoming blog (by Sue) and a Chamber Forum (by members). As we digested all this activity, Sue introduced Les Leavitt from LWA.

Les then took over and immediately had the audience’s attention as he explained he wasn’t going to go on with

‘boring’ accountancy jargon but went straight in to LWA’s ‘philosophy to be different’. Les said: “Yes, we are award-winning and have a national client base – but we remain true to our local roots having developed long term relationships with many Chamber members that are built around the concept of know, like and trust, as well as regularly working within the community.

“For example, I have recently taken on the role of a ‘Dragon’s Den’ style judge for a second year, helping to select winners of Dulux Decorator Centre’s Pitch2Win competition, whilst also offering our business advice and guidance free of charge for the first year of business as part of the prize.”

The importance of LWA’s accreditations and awards were then explained with the overriding factor that they go the extra mile with a value-added service. To add to this LWA had also been shortlisted at the British Accountancy Awards 2014.

The introduction to LWA concluded with some fantastic client testimonials with an emphasis on the lifeline that the firm has provided to businesses with their outsourced Finance Director solution – with the country coming out of recession, SMEs are growing at a phenomenal rate and therefore the need for this sort of professional board-level financial expertise is on the increase.

Essentially Les’s presentation confirmed the importance of LWA’s role with their clients as not just accountants, but members of a team in which they can help grow and support


19

those businesses. It was about relationship building and adding business value.

Les then handed over to Cos Michael of The Greek Kitchen. The restaurant opened in late March to serve traditional Greek cuisine, not normally seen in the UK. Their recipes focus on purity and quality and they are quickly building their reputation as a quality restaurant. Cos and his family plan next to add a wine bar and tapas style experience which as well as advancing the business would help lift the local area. He then invited us to see if the proof was in the pudding (sorry…) and we sat down to a delicious supper.

The mouth-watering dishes on offer included Hot Spit Souvla - consisting of chicken, pork and lamb (marinated and then cooked over the charcoal pit on rotating spit), Koubebeia (Dolmades), Charcoal grilled Halloumi cheese, Makaronia tou fourno pastichio, Saganaki prawns, as well as the usual suspects (but taken to the next level by the fantastic chef at the restaurant) Greek salad, authentic Greek and Cypriot pitta breads (imported from the homeland but baked fresh at the restaurant), with a selection of dips, served with all typical authentic sides such as roasted Cypriot potatoes and Pilaf pougouri.

The Greek Kitchen had certainly pulled out all the stops in presenting us with an ambitious range of dishes that all stood out in their own right.

Once the audience had been reminded to complete their world-cup draw cards, Cos had a surprise in store. One of his wine suppliers had dropped in from Spain to talk through the wine accompaniment to the meal.

Networking continued at the tables whilst Chamber members polished off second helpings, and the world-cup draw cards were collected in none other than a celebratory Champagne bucket from which the winners of the prizes were picked: Sean Anstee, Leader of Trafford Council, and Jamie Christer of Boomerang Integration Consultants.

Sue then thanked Les Leavitt for sponsoring this Mixer and Cos Michael for hosting it, and the event closed with everyone having enjoyed a great chance to network, listen to an informative presentation by LWA, and enjoy the very finest Greek Cuisine.

Cos Michael from The Greek Kitchen

L-R Steve Collings, Audit & Technical Director, Nickie Antley, Tax Manager, Matt Jones, Senior Accountant and Les Leavitt, Managing Partner)

L-R AGM Kelly Wimbleton, BDM Kimberley Gibbs Head Bartender Jonathan Birchall

CHAMBER MIXERS


20

Situated in the heart of leafy Hale village can be found the Hale Grill. As part of the Blackhouse chain, this iconic restaurant offers the perfect laid back venue for a relaxing meal with family and friends.

The Hale Grill as Chamber members were very keen to take the opportunity to showcase this by hosting a Chamber Mixer event on 14 August. Ably represented by Business Development Manager Kimberley Gibbs, and Assistant General Manager Kelly Wimbleton, the Grill had put on a fantastic cocktail masterclass in the form of head bartender Jonathan Birchall, with a great selection of samples to try (it was rude not to!).

Also supplied was a lovely range of original and highly delicious snacks.

The evening started with a brief introduction to the Alex Hulme Foundation,

where Dave Hulme gave a short talk about the charity. It was then on to the cocktail masterclass with Jonathan, who showed us a wonderful recipe for a variation on a Mint Julep.

Kimberley then gave us an introduction to The Hale Grill, explaining the focus on ‘no nonsense’ food. She described the emphasis on wholesome ingredients, mixing distinctive textures and flavours offering innovative dishes that sat comfortably alongside traditional favourites. Premium quality steak aged for 28 days was also a speciality, alongside the freshest selection of seafood.

As the evening progressed and diners started to fill the Restaurant, the atmosphere took on the noisy, excited and

yet at the same time relaxed ambiance of what seems to be a favourite venue for the people

of Hale. By the time the event finished all the tables seemed to be full of diners

- not bad for a Thursday night!

14 • 8 • 14

The Hale Grill mixes the perfect cocktail

Last year’s Chamber Mixer at Clarke Art felt like an evening in Tuscany. Some 13 months later, this year’s Mixer was chillier, more Scunthorpe. But Bill Clarke’s welcome was as warm as ever, easing the evening gloom with Champagne and canapés.

As some 35 members crowded into the Hale gallery, President Sue Aldridge welcomed everyone and handed over to our host.

Bill gave us a brief history of the Gallery. It focuses on Northern Art, driven by LS Lowry, as you would expect. There were some eye-catching examples on the walls, including one that would make a tremendous business card draw prize. Bill also introduced two of his gallery artists, Ben Kelly and Stephen Campbell, both exhibiting examples of their differing styles. Art as an investment, especially as a hedge against Inheritance Tax, is an attractive option and the next speakers picked up on this theme.

Ian Noke and Tracy Lendon of Handelsbanken came to remind us of the various ways we can invest our fortunes (Sue seemed particularly interested to hear more). Investment types range from cash (low risk, low reward) to equities (high risk, high reward), with many alternatives in between. The path to good Dave and Nicola Hulme


21

returns is paved with diversification, flexibility, a balanced allocation of assets and risk awareness. Remembering where we were, Nick stressed that collectibles were certainly a valid investment. Plus, there’s more pleasure from looking at a work of art than a pension statement!

Next was the Business Card draw. Although the prize wasn’t any of the paintings (sigh…), the bottle of Taittinger was still generous. It was won by Dave Hulme of the Alex Hulme Foundation, and well deserved it was too.

Sue closed the formal part of the Mixer with news of the forthcoming Chamber Business Academy 2 and that training on Start-Ups would be included. The Entrepreneur Strikes Back.

As we returned to networking, some were wondering what their partner might say if they returned home with a Lowry...

25 • 9 • 14

How to hang your pension on the wall

L-R Randalls Owner Martin Duff with Steve Nurse, Hale Communications

Steven Murtagh, Jean Juviniere Ltd

CHAMBER MIXERS


22

Martin Duff, Randalls’ owner, offered a warm welcome and chilled Champagne to 25 Chamber members. A few customers also joined in, not really knowing what was happening – but they soon behaved like old hands.

President Sue Aldridge opened the evening by congratulating Martin and his team on their 4th anniversary of opening. Martin talked about the highs and lows. They had opened just as the recession was starting; after 18 months, they left their main jewellery supplier and went independent (sleepless nights was mentioned more than once…); and they watched as Altrincham shops closed down all around them.

But four years on, Randalls is thriving and Martin explained why. Firstly, his team of Pat and Alyshia have made customer service a true Randalls differentiator, listening hard to what customers want. There has also been tremendous support from fellow local businesses. And two courses have proved major success factors: ‘The Digital High Street’ showed how to tap into the true potential of Facebook and Twitter. And the ‘WorldHost’ customer service training programme was invaluable. Taken together, Randalls are very well placed for the economic upturn – and Christmas of course…

Next came the Business Card Draw. Steve Nurse of Hale Communications won a bottle of the Champagne, which was now going down very well. Sue then welcomed both a new member, and a new role for a current member. Steven Murtagh of the wine supplier Jean Juviniere Ltd has recently joined the

Chamber – his wine tasting stall on the counter was doing brisk business. And the popular member Corrine Christou from WPA Healthcare has joined the Chamber’s Board to help grow the membership.

Then it was back to networking, fuelled by flavoursome cheeses and the excellent Champagne. We are sure there is no link, but we hear that there were several jewellery purchases by the end of the evening.

14 • 8 • 14

Making sure your business sparkles

Doesn’t your business deserve the best?Let the highly experienced Business Services team

of Slater Heelis LLP help you achieve your objectives

in a timely, cost effective and efficient manner.

We specialise in:

• Commercial Property

• Dispute Resolution

• Corporate and

Commercial Law

• Employment Matters

• Banking & Finance

Slater Heelis A4 Full.pp.indd 1 28/11/2014 18:25


24

INTERVIEW31 • 10 • 14

Martin Hambleton Photography Winner of the Chamber Small Business of the Year AwardJust after the Chamber awards took place Business Voice caught up with Martin Hambleton at the press office overlooking Old Trafford Cricket Ground. Unusually for Martin he wasn’t there to photograph such an iconic venue, but instead we used it as a backdrop for an in-depth interview on the background and development of award winning Martin Hambleton Photography.

What made you leave teaching to become a photographer?

“I wanted to pursue photography since I was 14, but I got dissuaded. I carried on at school, did my A-levels, went to University, and the honest truth was that I thought I’d missed my slot.

“Then years later I found myself in one of those now or never situations. We had two children, I was doing well at teaching, and I was being encouraged to follow the promotion route. The actual tipping point was that the children had both started school and we didn’t have to find nursery fees any longer. That was what pushed me to jump into a new career path.”

What’s your opinion on people in business taking their own photographs and using them for marketing?

“Not everyone needs to pay a professional to do a job for them, but if you want to be portrayed as a professional business then you have to present a professional image. That doesn’t just mean getting someone like me taking professional shots, it means using a professional designer to manage and present your brand. This includes your logo, website, stationery, press releases, uniforms, social media output and marketing literature.”

What’s your unique selling point that makes Martin Hambleton Photography stand out from the crowd?

“Simple answer – me. I’ve been doing this 11 years now, and

although I count myself as an excellent photographer, my USP has got to be the best customer service going. I listen to what you want, I deliver that – and more.”

What was the worst photograph you’ve ever taken?

“I’ve recently bought a new camera called a GoPro, which has no viewfinder, plus an extremely wide angle lens – bordering on fish-eye! I would suggest every single time I use that bit of kit it presents a very, very different learning curve!”

OK – so in that case what was the best photo you have taken?

“I think the flippant answer to that is that I’ve not taken it yet. As a photographer, you’re always trying to do better. I suppose I’ve taken a few that have won awards, and I’m certainly proud of those.”

Have you ever taken on a job that you really never wanted to do?

“The truthful answer is no. There have been jobs that haven’t turned out as I thought they would, also jobs that have been difficult for whatever reason, but being a professional is about solving problems.

“Thinking back to when I started I’m sure with my experience now I could have approached that work differently, however, it’s those jobs that you learned the most from.”

What advice would you give to someone thinking about taking up photography as a career?

“Be prepared to work 25 hours a day! As opposed to other professions where there is a clear route to take involving qualifications, training, etc, there are many different routes and destinations for a professional photographer.

Martin Hambleton Photography Winner of the Chamber Small Business of the Year Award


25

“A lot of people do it because they are keen amateurs and they think it’d be a nice way to earn a living, however, the number one thing to bear in mind is that it’s extremely hard work. It’s not like taking photos for pleasure, you have to deliver what your clients want, not necessarily what you think is correct.”

How much time do you spend actually taking photographs?

“I would say photography is only 20% of what I do. Most photographers like me are a sole trader and would need to cover supportive activities like marketing, book-keeping, plus all the other necessary aspects of running your own business. A big part of that is post production, working through the images. If I’m out taking shots for 4 hours, I’ll spend easily the same amount of time editing in front of the computer before my client takes delivery.”

Well done on winning small business of the year category at the Chamber awards. What did you think when your name was announced? And what impact do you think the award will have on your business?

“My immediate thought was that Jon had better not muck up the photos! (that was my thought as well! – Jon). To be honest, it was rather strange as I had to quickly snap out of ‘working’ mode to collect the award, then equally quickly snap back in to working again for the next presentation. So the moment was very enjoyable if rather fleeting. Looking back at the presentation and the general reception from everyone I couldn’t help but notice how warm the feelings were from many Chamber members, and although I have been a member for many years, winning this has confirmed how friendly and supportive everyone in the Chamber has been.”

You’ve been with the Chamber for a good many years now.

What advantages has your business gained over that time?

“The benefit for me is by going to every single event means I can build relationships with a great many businesses. By doing so you meet a wide range of people. It’s a shame, but you see lots of people turning up to one mixer or one breakfast, and unfortunately, never see them again. By being consistent and regularly attending all the Chamber events mean people will remember you and also warm to you, and in making all those connections business does get referred back to you.”

REPORT


In response to Altrincham having secured a £40,000 slice of the Department of Communities and Local Government BID Loan Fund to assist in setting up a Business Improvement District (BID) for the town centre, Council Leader and Chair of Altrincham Forward Sean Anstee responded to the news at the beginning of September with the following:

“On hearing that we have been successful in our application for a Business Improvement District (BID) loan for Altrincham, and that it is likely to be covered in the press, we wanted to make sure that you were amongst the first to hear this news and to also tell you more about the project, especially as it will involve all the businesses in the town centre and aims to give you more control.”

What is a BID?

“As the name implies, a BID is a business-led initiative. It is based on a business plan developed by local businesses to improve trade or general business conditions.

“Businesses in the BID area stay in control; first they identify the initiatives they feel are needed to improve the town, which form the basis of a Business Plan, then vote to decide if they want it to happen, and later a number will have a role in the independent company created to deliver that plan.”

Who pays for it?

“As government has seen the positive impact BIDs can make, and is keen for more to be created, they have made a loan fund available to help fund development costs.

“Altrincham now has a loan of £40,000 to help develop a business plan and put it to the vote. This will be added to some grant funding received from government last year for the purposes to helping Altrincham continue to rejuvenate its high street. This money will support the process including promotion, consultation and a vote. The loan will be repaid by the BID company or, in the event of businesses deciding this is not for Altrincham, the government will waive the repayment.

“A fund is created by charging an additional levy on the business rates (typically 1 to 2% of rateable value) to implement the plan which has been voted for. BIDs are now quite common across the country; with over 185 operating in the UK. Many have discovered that the increase in business rates is worthwhile through the projects and schemes they’ve created and in addition are now being more than recovered in the savings achieved through purchasing collaboration for utilities, telecoms and recycling.”

Where else has a BID?“The nearest local BID is in the Manchester City Centre, which has been most visible through the larger celebration of Chinese New Year in 2014 and suited guides for tourists.

“We have discovered a number of other towns, similar in size and make up to Altrincham, where a BID is positively impacting on the trading environment for retailers. Ideas in those towns include on line marketing and directories, local marketing initiatives, street rangers, extra street cleaning and selling industrial waste - there are a host of ideas that have worked in other towns but it’s important Altrincham businesses come up with their own priorities and ideas.”

Who’s leading on the BID for Altrincham?“The development of a BID for Altrincham is being coordinated by the Town Centre Team at Altrincham Forward, which is principally funded by Trafford Council.

“However, the BID is not council run and although Altrincham Forward will be coordinating the development of a BID for the town, it will be the businesses that will be consulted and ultimately decide if a BID is right for Altrincham based on the details of the business plan.

“It is important that town centre businesses know that Altrincham Forward is here to do the administration, organise the meetings and manage the project but it is not here to tell you what your business plan should include - that is up to you and the other businesses.”

Next steps“The next steps are to start a wide ranging consultation; including every business in the town centre, to discuss your ideas to improve the trading environment and to encourage people to visit and spend their money in this town. We will also be creating a business-led Steering Group to ensure the process meets local businesses needs throughout the process.

“We have also just launched our first survey to gather your views on the BID which can be found at www.altrinchamforward.co.uk. If you are interested in being part of the Steering Group for this project or want to find out more about it, please contact us on 0161 912 1599 or via [email protected]”

To keep up to date with the project please visit www.altrinchamforward.co.uk and you should shortly receive a visit from Hazel Kimmitt, Town Centre Officer and BID Coordinator at Altrincham Forward to discuss the BID further.

Making a BID for Altrincham

26

FOCUS


I never anticipated becoming self-employed. In my family there was very much the culture of getting a ‘proper job’ where you worked for a good company, hopefully until the day you retired. Your employer took care of all the messy stuff; pensions, income tax, holiday and sick pay, getting customers. Yes, you were expected to turn up and do a good job. And I did; I worked

for a blue chip company, got promoted to a senior level and enjoyed every opportunity that came my way.

Becoming self-employed came about by accident. My husband came home from work one day and said he fancied training to become a hypnotherapist. He was extremely well read, knew about lots of things and I trusted him. Even so this announcement came as something of a shock. I wasn’t even sure what a hypnotherapist did back then and twenty-five years ago it was rather an unusual choice of career. Intrigued, we went along to discuss the training.

All that seems a lifetime ago now. We did the course and set up the practice as a part-time interest, initially for my husband. A year or so later I redid my hypnotherapy training, took redundancy from my job and took over the practice from my husband. Since then I’ve enhanced and extended my skills and expertise.

At the time I had no idea what I needed to know about being self-employed. Fortunately I got some guidance from my employers and I had the cushion of my redundancy money and some additional contract work.

So my hypnotherapy practice began. I had business cards printed, bought some standard leaflets and advertised in various places; calendars, wall clocks, a miscellany of magazines and publications. Eventually I was cold-called and agreed to have a website made. When I searched for it I couldn’t find it, which was rather disconcerting, especially as I knew its name! I was offered rooms to rent in several clinics, agreed to do talks to an assortment of groups, attended many networking meetings and events.

It took time to discover which things worked best for me and my business. What copy should I use on my website and leaflets, do I need videos, a powerpoint presentation, what’s the best way to promote my business, which is the most effective way to network? All this whilst maintaining positive

confidence levels, self-belief and managing stress.

Also it took time to discover what I wanted for my business. Things that suited other therapists were not necessarily for me. Every experience was a valuable part of the journey to where I am today.

There were times, certainly at the start, where my confidence wavered, I felt stressed and questioned if I was doing the right thing. Being self-employed can be a roller-coaster, at times wondering where the next clients are coming from. But with a good team behind you providing quality information and support, helping your self-belief and motivation it’s possible to become a positive new business.

Over time I’ve found my niche. I work mainly from home, do corporate workshops for clients, usually at their premises, have established good relationships with other businesses and therapists where we cross-refer, I write articles for websites, magazines and newspapers, have had a book published, do talks and media work. All this has been a process of trying different things, saying ‘yes’ to opportunities and being receptive to new ideas whilst supporting my core business.

My advice? Keep up the enthusiasm, manage your stress levels, believe in what you’re doing and enjoy the ride. Having access to an organisation that offers the necessary advice and skills can help you avoid many of the pitfalls and expensive mistakes that are often made when starting out.

Susan Leigh is a Counsellor and Hypnotherapist who works with stressed individuals to promote confidence and self-belief, with couples experiencing relationship difficulties to improve communications and understanding and with small businesses and start-ups to support their motivation, self-belief, general health and wellbeing.

For more information visit www.lifestyletherapy.net

Setting up a brand new businessSusan Leigh, Counsellor and Hypnotherapist, takes us on her business story

27


28

REVIEW16 • 10 • 14

The Chamber Business Awards 2014

There was rather a lot to live up to since last year’s successful awards evening, however, this year didn’t disappoint, with the fabulous black tie event once more raising the profile of Chamber members for all to enjoy.

After a glittering award ceremony at the Cresta Court hotel, Altrincham & Sale Chamber of Commerce is pleased to announce the winners of this year’s business awards sponsored by Virgin Atlantic.

The Window Company was awarded Business of the Year with so many recommendations meaning they have recruited two more fitting teams increasing local employment. They also support many local charities including fitting free windows for the Cheeky Monkey Centre in Sale.

Altrincham based The Zipyard won Retailer of the Year, growing from just one member of staff and two seamstresses in 2011, to having George Osborne open their second centre

in Wilmslow last year. Now employing 12 seamstresses and 4 sales staff between the two centres, they are on track to hit their target of £500,000 turnover by the end of the year. Combining outstanding customer service with exceptional growth means this firm is now an established household name in Altrincham.

Slater Heelis won the Provider of Professional Services award as one of the few businesses that continued to develop their services during a recessionary period, whilst still maintaining primary focus on personal customer service. Undergoing a significant modernisation of brand and service delivery, along with a number of impressive strategic acquisitions and mergers, projected them into one of the leading legal practices in the North.

Photographer Martin Hambleton won Small Business of the Year. He has developed a successful business whilst

Most of the Winners...

The Chamber Business Awards 2014


29

supporting the Chamber for a number of years, and works with Start Up Business Services to support other new firms.

A few tears were shed when the winners of the Charity of the Year award Dave and Nicola Hulme took to the stage for the Alex Hulme Foundation. The couple established this charity as a legacy to the loss of their 12 year old son in September 2011 to B-Cell Non Hodgkin Lymphoma - in recognition of the courage and bravery he showed during his illness and beyond. He wanted to help others who found themselves in the same position. Thanks to the support of so many wonderful people, the Foundation has so far raised over £170,000 and is funding pioneering research run by Dr Suzanne Turner, the only paediatric Lymphoma researcher in the UK, along with her PhD students. The work is focussing on the causes of this dreadful disease and development of individual treatment plans that provide children with a better

outcome in life. The Foundation pledges that every penny donated is passed to the project with nothing taken away for administration costs.

President Sue Aldridge said: “The standard of the entrants this year and record turnout for awards has made this an outstanding success. It’s especially heartening that Virgin Atlantic have sponsored the event too.”

Darren Gilbert, Senior Manager of Little Red and OffShore Marine, Virgin Atlantic Airways Ltd said: “Virgin Atlantic was delighted to be able to participate in this year’s Altrincham & Sale Chamber of Commerce Business Awards, this has been a truly exciting year for us and to be involved with and to support this event is wonderful.”

...and most of the Runners-up

Article continues on next page


30

REVIEW - THE WINNERS!16 • 10 • 14

The Sponsors

L-R Sue Aldridge, Martin Hambleton, Mike Fox and Darren Proctor L-R Jon Cheetham, Laura Morgan, Paul Hughes, Sue Aldridge and Darren Proctor

Joan Scott and James Bagnall

L-R Marie McConnell, Dr Jackie Campbell and Richard McConnell

L-R Paul Mirage, Jon Cheetham and Keith Morris

Small Business of the Year Martin Hambleton Property Team of the Year Bridging Finance

Young Apprentice of the Year James Bagnall

Retailer of the Year The Zipyard

Start-up Business of the Year Trafford Business Connect Magazine

Each category was sponsored by the following:

Small Business of the Year Slater Heelis

Start Up Business of the Year Sale & Altrincham Messenger

Retailer of the Year Dr Jackie Campbell

Property Team of the Year Trafford Business Connect Magazine

Young Apprentice of the Year Trafford College

Provider of Professional Services The Web Studio

Leisure & Tourism Virgin Atlantic Airways

Charity of the Year Myerson

Business of the Year Trafford Council

Employee of the Year Colemans ctts


31

L-R James Rowan and Paul Hindley L-R Wayne Shaw and the Leader of Trafford Council, Sean Anstee

L-R Dave Hulme, Tim Norman and Nicola Hulme

L-R David Bellin, Anne Irwin and Mike Fox

Leisure & Tourism Best Western Cresta Court Hotel Business of the Year The Window Company

Charity of the Year Alex Hulme Foundation

Provider of Professional Services Slater Heelis

L-R Dean Smith and Roger Coleman

Employee of the Year Dean Smith, The Window Company

The Runners-upCongratulations must also go to the 10 worthy Runners-up:

Small Business of the Year JWC PR

Start Up Business of the Year Start Up Business Services

Retailer of the Year Motorquest

Property Team of the Year Colemans ctts

Young Apprentice of the Year Saima Hyder, Trafford Council Aleka Wellington, Trafford Council

Provider of Professional Services UK International Lawyers

Leisure & Tourism Redhouse Farm

Charity of the Year G-Force

Business of the Year Slater Heelis

Employee of the Year Jackie Stuttard, MLP Solicitors

MEMBER BENEFITS


32

Join the Chamber Today and enjoy these fantastic offers Membership certainly has its privileges. As members of the Altrincham & Sale Chamber of Commerce you are eligible to a fantastic range of discounts and special offers by fellow members:

AMINA TANDOORI TAKEAWAY/CATERING

offer members of the Chamber 20% discount of all food orders including catering for general meetings, parties, anniversaries and all special occasions. Contact Mr Ali on 07709 111926

BRUNTWOOD LTD

25% off your first meeting room booking. 10% thereafter. Two month’s rent free when taking a 12 month term on a virtual office. One month free when taking a minimum three month term on a serviced office. Membership fee waived for our day office card. Video conferencing from £99 per hour up to six attendees. T: 0161 233 7877 or [email protected]

Meeting room prices range from £20 per hour for up to 4 people to £150 per hour for 120 people. Cost savings on virtual office space will be either £100 for mail only or £200 for full virtual by signing for 12 months with the rent free. Savings for day office card membership is around £69. Prices exclude VAT.

COLEWRITE COPYWRITING

50% discount to write a 60 second “elevator pitch” for use at networking events and other occasions. Cost is £25 (normally £50). Contact Algy Cole, Cole Copywriting on 07912 374220 or [email protected]

CRESTA COURT HOTEL

10% Discount off food on any event booked. 15% discount off any accommodation booked direct (Menu prices from £25 and accommodation from £65 per night). Phone 0161 972 7272

DELTA SOLUTIONS

Delta Solutions can offer you a day costing £495+VAT for only £250+VAT for a Financial Health Check. Your business finances and processes will be investigated and analysed. A written report detailing the recommendations to improve your business financial strength will be provided including benchmarking against similar businesses. T: 0845 164 5015 M: 07796 176817 E: [email protected]

FADDIES DRY CLEANING

10% Discount off dry cleaning, laundry, shirt valet, leathers and soft furnishings. On your first visit have a suit dry cleaned for free T: 0161 928 7660

GRESHAM WEALTH MANAGEMENT LLP

Free initial consultation from a Chartered Financial Planner to all members (Saving of £500) T: 0161 973 9150

HOMES4U

50% Discount on initial letting fee for any new properties instructed on our Gold and full property management service. T: 0161 941 2323

IMAGINE FM

Free production of your first commercial saving £300+VAT T: 0161 476 7349 E: [email protected]

MERE COURT HOTEL

20% off our Du Jour Menu in the Arboreum Restaurant (3 course menu is £19.95). T: 01565 831000

THE MERE GOLF RESORT & SPA

1 x 4 Ball for price of 3 ball £225 (should be £300). Twilight golf £35pp; Early Bird £35pp. T: 01565 830155

MILNER BOARDMAN

15% Discount of the first year’s fees for a new client T: 0161 927 2727

Fees £2,000 to £2,500 so saving £300 to £375

MINUTEMAN PRESS

Digitally produced matt laminated double sided business cards on 350g silk. 500 = £49+VAT (save £16); 1000 = £69+VAT (save £28) Litho produced matt laminated double sided business cards on 400g silk. 500 £59+VAT (save £20); 1000 £79+VAT (save £26)

Contact Ed or Alison on 0161 928 8826 www.120manchester.minutemanpress.co.uk

Join the Chamber Today and enjoy these fantastic offers


33

SAFETYNET IT

Free IT system health check saving £66+VAT T: 0845 869 8451

SALE & ALTRINCHAM MESSENGER

‘Market Your Business’ - Up to a 15% discount on your first advertisement in the Sale & Altrincham Messenger including the Business Page – saving from £30 off a front page or £53 off a Business Profile and £55 off a full page. For this offer and more long term campaigns contact [email protected] T: 0161 908 3413.

SEND OUT CARDS

One FREE card as a gift to send a recipient of your choice. Please contact Natalie at [email protected]

SPIRE MANCHESTER CLINIC HALE

Non-surgical cosmetic treatment offer with Spire Manchester Clinic Hale - Receive £25 off any non-surgical cosmetic treatments when you spend up to £150, and £50 off if you spend over £150. This offer is exclusively for Chamber members and cannot be used in conjunction with any other offer. For further information, terms and conditions or to book please call 0161 232 2303 (quote AC1001).

Varicose or prominent veins - Chamber members can receive a scan and consultation with Consultant Vascular Surgeon, Mr Ferdinand Serracino Inglott at our Clinic in Hale for prominent or varicose veins for £150 (usual price £200). This offer is exclusively for Chamber members and cannot be used in conjunction with any other offer. For further information, terms and conditions or to book please call 0161 232 2303 (quote AC1002).

TOLL OPTICIANS

15% Discount and a free second pair of spectacles to Chamber members. Contact Sarah Haughian T: 0161 928 0566 E: [email protected]

TRAFFORD SURVEYORS

10% off all home improvement packs and domestic energy performance certificates. 15% off all surveys, valuations and commercial energy performance certificates. T: 0161 929 8257

THE WINDOW COMPANY

20% off our full range of products, windows, doors and conservatories saving between £100 and £3000. Contact Wayne Shaw T: 0161 962 8570 E: [email protected]

THE ZIPYARD

15% off all alterations and repairs at The Zipyard, 14 Lloyd Street, Altrincham WA14 2DE T: 0161 929 4848 Alterations and repairs start from £10 upwards

Additional offers for chamber members:

AA AFFINITY SCHEME

Members/staff discounts off AA Breakdown Cover. Get the AA’s best prices at enrolment plus 10% at renewal – on average 10% cheaper than the AA.com. To get a quote and join, please call 0800 048 0075 and quote reference ‘F0706’.

THE FUELCARD PEOPLE

Members will receive:

- Typical savings of up to 5p per litre on national average pump prices, with fixed weekly pricing.

- Savings of up to 10p per litre on motorway refuelling.

- Free credit for up to two weeks – and the same price, wherever you refuel.

- Just one weekly invoice, paid by direct debit, to cover all transactions for all your vehicles.

- Easy reclaiming of VAT.

- Own named, dedicated account manager.

- Easy access, 24/7/365, to your account information – including transactions not yet invoiced .

- Access to major brand diesel or petrol from over 7000 sites nationwide.

- Leading-edge security features.

- Each fuel card, linked to a vehicle or driver, is useless to anyone else if lost or stolen.

Tel: 0844 870 6938 E: [email protected]

To take advantage of these many savings, please state that you are a member of Altrincham & Sale Chamber of Commerce when you contact the supplier.

Please note: Offers are made by the individual organisations and the Chamber cannot be held responsible for any changes/amendments or withdrawal of these offers.

NOT A CHAMBER MEMBER YET?Joining is easy. Simply call Paul Mirage on 07708 987518 or email [email protected] Invest in your business by joining today!


34

MEMBERS’ DIRECTORY4hub CIC Enterprise Education/Employability Skills

442 Online Marketing Ltd

Alfaprotect Insurance & Mortgage Adviser

Vicki Allen Limited Ladieswear

Aminah Tandoori Indian Takeaway/Catering

Alex Hulme Foundation Charity

Altrincham Football Club

Altrincham Garrick Playhouse

Altrincham Grammar School for Boys

Altrincham HQ Social Media Management & Training

Altrincham Parish Church, St Georges

Atelier Rose and Gray Art Gallery

Atkins Building Solutions Ltd Architects

Avid Business Solutions Ltd Web Design/Digital Solutions

Avocate Legal French Interpreting and Translation

Avodanet Communications

Baker Tilly LLP Accountants

Barclays Business South Manchester Business Banking

Barkers The Florist

Bean & Brush Family Art Café

Berg Solicitors

Berrys Chartered Surveyors

Best Western Cresta Court Hotel

Bizspace Co Ltd Managed Workspace Provider

Blackstone Solicitors Ltd

Bluebird Care (Trafford) Domiciliary Care

Boomerang Integration Consultants Social Integration Consultancy

Bowdon Club Cricket, Hockey & Squash Club

The Bowdon Rooms Weddings/Functions/Live Music

Brewin Dolphin Securities Ltd Stockbrokers

Bridging Finance Ltd Bank

Bruntwood Ltd Offices/Meeting Rooms

Dylan Butt Retired Member

C21 Creative Communications Ltd Advertising & Marketing

Hale Communications (Europe) Ltd Mobile Phone Retailer

Hale Grill Restaurant

Hale Instruments Ltd Electronic/electrical components

Martin Hambleton Photography

Handelsbanken Bank

Harold Sharp Chartered Accountants

Hart Project Solutions Ltd Commercial and Personal Finance

Hibbert Homes Ltd Estate Agents

Stephen Hobson Chartered Accountants

John Holden Security Systems Ltd

Holt Business Solutions Office Equipment/supplies

Home Instead Senior Care Domiciliary Care

Homes4U Estate Agents

HR Dept Human Resources Specialist

HW Chartered Accountants Chartered Accountants

Imagine FM Commercial Radio

Innov8 Conference Services Events Management

Insure Risk Ltd Insurance Broker

JDS Fuel Savings

Jefferies Solicitors Ltd

Jean Juviniere Ltd Wine Merchant

Jordan Pickup Accountancy Services

JWC PR Public Relations

K&R Badges Ltd Badge Manufacturer

Keller Kitchen Centre Fitted Kitchens

Kensington Wedding Cars Ltd

Keoghs, Nicholls, Lindsell & Harris Solicitors

Keyteq Presentation Services Ltd Live Events/AV Rental

Keyways Security Systems Ltd

Daniel Killoran Photography

Kitson Architecture Ltd

Knutsford Software Ltd Web Development

Leavitt Walmsley Associates Ltd Accountants

LEBC Group Ltd Financial Services

Lexington Communications Public Relations Consultancy

Life Centre Events Charity

Lifestyle Therapy Counselling & Hypnotherapy

William H Lill & Company Solicitors

Loreto Grammar School

Ian Macklin & Co Estate Agents

Capital Properties Ltd Property Management

Carrington Business Park Business Park

Castle Keep Law Legal Professional Services

Chafes Solicitors LLP

Charmax LLP Solicitors

Jon Cheetham Design Design and Marketing

Chelsea Harrison LLP Accountancy

Cheshire Insurance Brokers

Cheshire Life Magazine

Childrens Adventure Farm Trust Charity

Churchward Logistics Ltd Couriers

Citybranch Ltd Property Developers

Clark Art Ltd Art Gallery

COD (Electrical) Electrical Appliances

Colemans ctts Solicitors

Colewrite Copywriting

Sally Cooper Trade Mark Attorney

Cresta World Travel Business Travel Agents

Darbys Solicitors LLP

Delta Solutions Accountancy

DHF Chartered Accountants

Domaine De Belfort (UK) Ltd Wine and Cooking Classes

Energetix Bingen Magnetic Jewellery & Wellbeing

Faddies Dry Cleaning

Float Glass Industries Ltd Glass Manufacturers

Frankland Tree Services Ltd

Frank Virtual Ltd Advertising & Marketing

Frisor Salon & Wellness Hair Salon & Wellness Store

G-Force Charity

John Gibbs Partnership Ltd Chartered Quantity Surveyors

The Greek Kitchen Restaurant

Gresham Wealth Management Financial Advisers

Hague Lambert Solicitors

Hale & Bowdon Civic Society

Hale & Bowdon Magazine


35

Manchester Airport Marriott Hotel

Manchester Phoenix Ice Sports

Matchbox Associates Ltd Management Consultancy

Matravers Accountancy and Business Services

McHale & Company Solicitors

The Mercure Bowdon Hotel

Mere Court Hotel & Conference Centre

The Mere Resort & Spa

MBL Accountants & Business Advisers

Minuteman Press Printers

MRW Corporate Solutions Business Improvement

Munsamy Photography

MLP Law Solicitors

Myerson Solicitors

Natwest Bank

Networking In The City Event Management

Nikal Ltd Property Development & Investment

Dr Sarah Norman & Co Medico-Legal Practice

Otus Financial Planning Financial Planning/Wealth Management

Pannone LLP Solicitors

Paragon Skills Training

Parsonage Financial Planning

P A Services Direct Ltd Outsource Admin Services

PayStream Accounting Services Ltd Payroll Systems

Petros Development Company Ltd Property Developers

Piccolino Restaurant

Pixel Air Ltd Web Design

Planitwright Planning Consultancy Planning Consultant

Premium Collections Ltd Debt Collection

Prontaprint Design & Print

Ralli Ltd Solicitors

Randalls Jewellers

Rapid Response Ltd IT Support

Redhouse Farm Shop & Tea Rooms

Recognition Express Promotional Products

Robins & Day Sale Peugeot Dealership

Robinson Associates Wealth Management

Royce Cohen & Co Accountants

RRG Toyota Car Dealership

RS Consultancy

Ruttimann Design Ltd Graphic Design

RW Signs Signage

Safetynet IT Ltd IT Support

St Mary’s Church

Sale & Altrincham Mencap Charity

Sale & Altrincham Messenger Newspaper Publisher

Sale FC Rugby Club

Selbourne Group Ltd Property Management Development

Selco Builders Warehouse Builders Merchants

Send Out Cards Online Cards & Gifts

Sheppards Chartered Accountants

Slater Heelis Solicitors

Smart Financial Financial Planning

Spire Manchester Clinic Hale Hospital/Clinic

Stamford Quarter Property Management

Stephensons Solicitors LLP

Stowe Family Law LLP Solicitors

Timperley Sports Club

Toll Opticians

Tourist Information Centre

Trafford Business Connect B2B Business Magazine

Trafford College

Trafford Community Leisure Trust

Trafford Housing Trust Social Landlord

Trafford Surveyors Ltd Surveyor

Tree Communications Ltd PR & Marketing

Tutor Doctor Education/Tuition

UK International Lawyers (UKIL) Ltd

The Vegetarian Society Charity

Virgin Atlantic Airways Ltd

Voice Takeaway Ltd Pro Voiceover Audio

Waterside Arts Centre Arts Centre

The Web Studio Web Provider Computer services & Training

The Window Company Windows, Doors & Conservatories

Bob Williams words Compere/Toastmaster/Speechwriter

WPA Health Insurance

The Zipyard Clothing Alternation/Repair

Welcome to our newest Members...

Sue Leschen from Avocate Legal French Interpreting/Translation www.avocate.co.uk

Sean Lynch from Avodanet Telecomms/Communications www.avodanet.com

Michelle Starling from the Bean & Brush Family Art Café www.beanandbrush.co.uk

Janet Smith from Carrington Business Park www.cbpl.co.uk

Jodi Hamilton from Castle Keep Law Legal Professional Services www.castlekeeplaw.co.uk

Councillor Dylan Butt

Cos Michael from The Greek Kitchen www.thegreekkitchen.co.uk

Dave Hulme from the Alex Hulme Foundation Charity www.alexhulmefoundation.co.uk

Steven Murtagh from Jean Juviniere Ltd Wine Merchants www.winedancer.com

Daniel Killoran Photography Photography/Commercial Videography www.danielkilloran.com

John Warren from Matchbox Associates Ltd Management Consultancy www.matchboxassociates.co.uk

Paul Daine from Premium Collections Ltd Debt Collection www.premiumcollections.co.uk

James Reilly from Ralli Solicitors Ltd www.ralli.co.uk

Pete Vernon from Rapid Response IT IT Support www.rapidresponseit.net

Alan Stones from Recognition Express Promotional Products www.re-warrington.co.uk

Matthias Ruttimann from Ruttimann Design Graphic Design www.ruttimandesing.co.uk

Mike Jefferson from Sale FC Rugby Club www.salefc.com

Sarah Gormley from Tree Communications Ltd PR & Marketing www.treecommunications.co.uk

Business Vision winter 2014

Documents

Transcript of Business Vision winter 2014