island business
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The November/December 2012 editionTRANSCRIPT
Islandusiness
November / December
2012
Company Profile Hose Rhodes Dickson
The Interview Paul Wheeler
Spotlight A Passion for Pubs
Dressing to impressFeature
President’s foreword
28 Personal ViewSaying no to university
23Chamber NewsMember benefi ts, new members, events
Is it really eight weeks since I became President?As they say time certainly does fl y, and there seems to have been a lot of activity since then.
I attended a presentation by the Council on the Sustainable Rural Transport Fund which the Council was recently awarded. This gives us all a great opportunity to look at areas where we can link up businesses with a network of diff erent modes of transport by connecting them by bus, cycleways or walks. And by working with partners to identify what is needed this funding could have benefi ts for all of us. There also could be information points around the Island that can give real time information to visitors and locals on bus times and other useful bits of information.
At the Chamber’s annual meeting, we gave out bronze and silver certifi cates to long standing members (Bronze for 5 years and Silver for 10 years), this is in recognition of loyal members who are really appreciated for the contribution they make to the Chamber. One of those members is Hose Rhodes and Dickson, who we profi le in this edition.
Christmas is fast approaching (don’t panic!!) and we strongly recommend shopping on the Island. One of our features looks at businesses that cater for personal image, and you might fi nd some gift ideas there.
We also take a look at the issue of superfast broadband, which I know is a big issue for many.
Island Business Magazine Published by the Isle of Wight Chamber of Commerce, Tourism and Industry
editorKevin [email protected]
Managing editorZoe [email protected]
While every care has been taken to ensure the accuracy of Island Business magazine the publishers do not accept any liability or provide any guarantee that the information is accurate, complete or up to date. The publisher and its employees and contractors have used their best e� orts in preparing these pages and this publication but make no warranty of any kind, expressed
or implied, with regard to the information supplied. The views of contributors do not necessarily represent those of the IW Chamber of Commerce. The IW Chamber of Commerce and its employees and contractors shall not be liable in the event of incidental or consequential damages in connection with, or arising out of, the providing of the information o� ered here.
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Island Business magazine is printed by Crossprint, an ISO 9001 registered printer based on the Isle of Wight.
DesignAaron Rudd Creativewww.aaronrudd.co.uk
Advertising salesMary [email protected]@iwchamber.co.uk
Isle of Wight Chamber of CommerceMill Court, Furrlongs, NewportIsle of Wight, PO30 2AA
Tel. 01983 520 [email protected]
In this Issue...
11 The InterviewPaul Wheeler
09 experts ViewFrom Glanvilles
02 NewsBusiness news
04 Talking pointThe Island’s Need for Speed
The Island is supposed to have most areas connected up in the next couple of years. In Ventnor where I live, we have been having all the cables installed underground, which does not involve digging up roads (well not around here) as it seems that they thread the cables along existing routes underground.
I don’t know about you but I cannot wait to connect up much faster. The service is a bit like me - fi ne in the morning but fl agging in the evening! One problem is that the further away you are from the exchange, the slower the service becomes. I am about a mile away and I get about 4 MB at best, averaging about 3.5, and sometimes 5 if I am lucky. And like most people today my business relies on fast communication…
Well that about wraps up my second foreword. It just remains for me to wish everyone a very Happy Christmas and a prosperous New Year.
David GroocockPRESIDENT, ISLE OF WIGHT CHAMBER OF COMMERCE, TOURISM AND INDUSTRY
Company Profi leHose Rhodes Dickson12
FeatureDressing to impress16
spotlightA Passion for pubs20
November / December 2012 01
02 The Business Magazine for the Isle of Wight
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It is one of many businesses that use on-site health improvement services provided by Chamber Health.
These include free health checks, stop smoking support, healthy eating advice, weight management referral, access to accredited exercise, and information about reducing alcohol intake.
Chamber Health co-ordinator Angela Hart said sickness accounted for many staff absences, and staff feedback showed that companies taking a more pro-active approach towards employee welfare, would help people take more responsibility for their health and well- being.
She said: “Businesses in the know are well aware of the high cost and unsustainability of sickness to their company. The most important thing is to identify problems early, so they can be nipped in the bud. “
David Drudge, Safety, Health and Environmental Officer at Pascall, said: “Organising the health checks has been really positive. They make a difference to people’s lives, improve performance, and evidence also shows that they make staff feel valued.”
For more information, and to book a health check at your premises, call 01983 554546.
Insurance expansionAn expansion into underwriting by a financial services company could be the first step towards establishing the Island as an insurance centre.
Lucas Fettes’ acquisition of Cougar Underwriting means the company can now offer a local and personal service to businesses that are often categorised at the same level of risk as companies in the centre of Portsmouth.
The former managing director of Cougar, Dave Buckman, is now Underwriting Manager for Lucas Fettes – which has moved into new premises on Quay Street, Newport, as part of its expansion plans.
He said: “Being here on the Island means we can take a proper and balanced view of risk, and provide businesses seeking insurance with better value for money. So much assessment is based on postcodes, but our aim is to provide insurance that is appropriate to need.”
Maxine Epton, of Lucas Fettes, said: “We are very much about investing in the Island, and the acquisition of Cougar means there is the potential for the Isle of Wight to become an insurance centre.”
Caroline set up the BeCalmed spa therapy centre in Cowes six years ago, since when a series of water leakages from the flats above – and road works outside – did more than just dampen her spirits.
“There were times when I thought of giving up,” she said. “But the support of staff and customers kept me going, and I’m really glad I stuck at it.”
Caroline used to work for the NHS, then ran a beauty salon at Gurnard Pines until the lease ran out. She’d always dreamed of High Street premises and moved quickly when the premises on Birmingham Road became available. She gained training and qualifications in refloxology, nutrition, holistic therapies, sports massage, and a range of other treatments.
Customer service excellenceCustomer service is the focus of a one day course to be held in Newport.‘Delivering Service Excellence’ aims to give staff in any business the tools to achieve top standards.
It will be held at the Isle of Wight Chamber of Commerce offices at Mill Court, on 19 November, from 9.30am to 5pm, and costs £45 for Chamber members, £55 for non-members, and an additional £25 for delegates who sit a City of Guilds exam at the end of the course.
The Chamber of Commerce, in association with Blue Ark Consultants and Tourism South East, said : “The course will give staff the confidence to use their customer skills effectively, and motivate them to provide world class service and boost sales.”
For more information, and to book a place, contact [email protected] or call 01983 520777.
BaBy BoomBaby gifts manufacturer Raggy Tag is moving into bigger premises in Ryde to meet demand for its products.The company will be installing on-site sewing machines, and bringing all elements of the company under one roof.
Marketing and Operations Manager, Laura Waugh, said: “We have also just signed a contract with a large distributor in Australia, which has recently placed its first order. The move to new premises, and our growth, means we are also hoping to increase our workforce.”
For more information, go to www.raggy-tag.com
Maxine epton and Dave Buckman, of Lucas Fettes.
Keeping calm, carrying onThe poster message ‘keep calm and carry on’ might have been designed for Caroline Hurley, who has fought through some tough times in the process of developing her business.
Now Caroline has transformed the whole ground floor into a retail and waiting area, with a range of rooms and zones offering a facial, a pedicure and just about everything in between.
“I have learned a lot in the last few years,” she said, “and it has not been an easy journey. But business has grown steadily, and one of the best developments was in securing a top brand like Espa as a supplier. Their products are found in only the best places, including Gleneagles, so it was quite a coup for us, and we find they make very popular gifts, too.
“Our main focus is on providing the best service and the best value for money, and we are always looking at ways to improve the customer experience.”
Other owners of small businesses are regular customers at BeCalmed, and Caroline can identify with their reasoning. “Running a business is stressful, and they see the value of taking time out to recharge and refresh themselves,” she said.
www.becalmedincowes.co.uk
Big screen twitterIsland digital signage company Event LED Signs has launched social media on the big screen.
The company introduced ‘Tweet Out Loud’ at a trade show for the outdoor events industry, in Newbury.
The system displays a twitter feed at events, exhibitions and festivals, inviting audience participation.
Karen Mayne said: “It’s a new offering we hope will prove popular.”
For more information, go to www.eventledsigns.com
Healthy new yearIsland electronics company Pascall has switched on to the value of regular employee health checks.
Here at the Chamber offi ces in Newport, a speed test showed we were getting 6.9 MB per second download, which is nothing to write home about. But the same problem also affl icts Gosport, Hayling Island, areas north of Portsmouth, and the outskirts of Southampton.
Is it any comfort to know we are not alone? Island businesspeople lined up in alphabetical order to give us a superfast comment …
ANDReW BRYANT, UK Deal Hub at Logica... ”It would seem an ideal opportunity, with the signing of the PFI for the roads, to tie in the laying of ducting for fi bre across the Island. The cost of digging the hole is a major part of the cost of laying fi bre.”
TReVOR COOK, Wight Wireless... “The Island suff ers from limited broadband access for both domestic and business users. This directly impacts on business competitiveness as the net provides an opportunity for us to compete on a level playing fi eld. Wight Wireless own and operate a superfast broadband network that we are rolling out across the Island – including hard to access rural areas. The Government target is 90 per cent coverage at 24MB/Sec by 2015 and a minimum of 2MB. Our technology enables us to off er a minimum of 10MB and up to 30MB,
TINS (The Island’s Need for Speed)
and for large volume business users we can engineer solutions in excess of 50MB. You don’t have to wait anymore!”
CHRIs COWLeY, Wedding Photography... “I pretty much run my whole business online (Dropbox, Google apps, Wordpress), so good internet is vital to me. Where I live, traditional broadband wasn’t that fast and I went with a wireless service.”
JAKe GULLY, of Dataswift Network services... “The Roads PFI is in theory an opportunity, but the programme of works is being spread over 20 years, and I think it very unlikely that the Council could fund such a long term investment, politically or fi nancially.
“However, there are lots of existing ducts and some great potential routes with low install costs (railways existing/disused, rivers, bridleways). There is also signifi cant potential for using unbound (wireless, laser, microwave) to speed deployment, extend reach and add resilience. Also much potential to split and share development costs between local government, healthcare and business.”
ANGeLA HORTON, of the Priory Bay Hotel... “We use Click4Internet wirelessly due to our poor wired connection. We’re one of the furthest points on the Ryde exchange.”
JOHN IRVINe, CeO of WightFibre... “The idea the Isle of Wight suff ers from poor broadband coverage is a myth. Practically unique amongst rural areas in the UK, the Isle of Wight has two Tier 1 telecom providers – BT & WightFibre. WightFibre operates a fi xed fi bre optic network to 25% of the premises on the island and a high speed wireless network a further 50%. WightFibre off ers fi bre optic speeds of 100Mb – higher than is available in most mainland areas – and wireless speeds of 10Mb to 30Mb.
Kevin Smith, Chief Executive of the Isle of Wight Chamber of Commerce, Tourism and Industry, said the Chamber had been pushing on the issue for some time, working behind the scenes with partners and lobbying for the Island nationally through the British Chambers of Commerce network.
He said: “There are some signs of progress on the Island, with the Government and the Council funding superfast broadband, and some great co-operative working between commercial wireless broadband providers is already making a diff erence for many in rural areas. But we still want to speed things up, literally.
“Maximising the benefi ts of the internet can spell the diff erence between survival and extinction for many businesses, and it is unfair that some are being disadvantaged.”
The Government has the ambitious target of making the UK the fastest broadband network in Europe within three years. That’s why the Council has been granted £3 million to bring higher speeds to Island areas that will not be reached by a programme of work by BT Openreach to upgrade its service to the main towns. When all this will happen has not yet been spelled out clearly, though, and some businesses are not convinced it will work.
Because we are an Island, it’s tempting to say we are a special case.
A study of central south broadband ‘notspots’ shows that some areas of the Island are limping along at below 1 MB per second, including areas around Shanklin, Sandown, Ryde, Ventnor, Wroxall and rural areas between Yarmouth and Cowes.
Boosting broadband access and speed for business is a top priority for the Island’s Chamber of Commerce. But is it achievable...?
“Maximising the benefi ts of the internet can spell the diff erence between survival and extinction for many businesses, and it is unfair that some are being disadvantaged.”Kevin Smith, Chief Executive of the Isle of Wight Chamber of Commerce, Tourism and Industry
“High speed wireless service is provided in partnership with Wiber and Wight Wireless to ensure a joined up, local approach to providing service. WightFibre service will reach 90% of the island by December. Higher wireless speeds of 30Mb+ will be available in Summer 2013.
“The Isle of Wight Council should not be awarding government money to BT to extend broadband reach when those services are already available from local island companies at competitive prices. Seeking to ‘improve’ service by ‘unbundling’ local BT exchanges simply perpetuates the problem. The poor quality of BT copper cables is the single most limiting factor in the provision of high speed services to outlying areas. An alternative infrastructure is required – either fi bre or high speed wireless.”
IAN LUFF, WightByte Computers... “There are Island companies off ering alternatives, including TurboWeb in West Wight, and click4internet.”
CARL MOReIRA-sMITH, Website Development specialist... “The Isle of Man has the same, if not worse, last mile infrastructure. They have combated this with an island wide roll out of WiMAX. They have transmitters on hilltops and tall buildings around the island, relaying the signal at speeds of up to 40MB data rates.”
FRAZeR MUNRO, High Point Infrastructure Limited... “The consequences of poor connectivity have only recently been appreciated and are still not understood by many. We have proved with our Wiber® network that a system of fi bre backbones and wireless relays enables the reach of fi bre optic speeds to be extended to rural users quickly, and at a fraction of the cost and disruption.
“High speed coverage has been in place and operational for some time - it’s available now and already in use by many. Our service works as a wholesale service network off ering multiple ISPs the opportunity to each deliver a unique portfolio of services to their own customers.
04 The Business Magazine for the Isle of Wight November / December 2012 05
TALKING POINT TALKING POINT
We will cover this issue in more detail. To join the debate, send a message to the Editor at [email protected]; and search the web (if you can …)
www.bt.com
www.click4internet.com
www.isleofwightspeedtest.com
www.wightfi bre.com
www.wightwireless.net
KeVIN WILsON PReseNTs A HIGH sPeeD ROUND UP OF ONe OF THe IsLAND’s BIG IssUes.
“It’s important that we are not left behind in matching the expectations of visitors. The growing number of hot spots will promote the Island as a venue for widely available, publicly accessible high speed internet.”
ANDReW NORDBRUCH, IsLAND PC seRVICes... ” There are Island based companies off ering high speed broadband via long range wireless networks, which is particularly eff ective in rural areas, where some of our customers can only achieve a 0.5Mb connection over ancient BT copper cables which stretch all the way to the Sandown exchange! Now they are able to get download and upload speeds in excess of 10Mb.
“There are better options than wireless, but they are only available in built up areas. The reliability and quality of the internet connection all comes down to the source internet connection that is being repeated wirelessly. One supplier on the Island uses an internet source in Bournemouth, and this can present problems because it can get congested at times, but a problem like this is easily fi xed.”
GRAHAM PeARCe, IsLAND PRINTeRs... “I appreciate that the Council is investing £3 million along with BT but it seems the new fi bre optic cables are being routed to new boxes in the street. My factory is about 200 metres from the nearest box, and I have been told the signal will travel from this box along the copper cable that feeds our existing BT phone lines. This must surely slow the speed down.
“One of my employees lives in Binstead and gets 8MB through WightFibre, which is faster than the service to my business, even though I am paying for 20MB.”
06 The Business Magazine for the Isle of Wight November / December 2012 07
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Boxstuff – set up in 2001 by Jeremy Pocock estimates that 90 per cent operate their websites as separate products, rather than as an integral part of their business.
Jeremy said: “Too many businesses still see the website as a brochure, but they are actually an opportunity to open up channels of communication. CRM is nothing new, but we have developed a modular system that opens up the technology to a business of any size.
“We have applications in use in the marine sector, event management, property management, and yacht clubs, but it would be just as useful for a small shop, for example.”
Boxstuff has built up a client list covering much of Europe, and has also developed the streetclub.co.uk initiative with B&Q – which is developing online communities at local level.
Jeremy is now keen to introduce more Island businesses to CRM, and has come up with a special off er for Isle of Wight Chamber of Commerce members. Those who sign up for a package will also have their customer lists imported, an email template designed and help with creation of their fi rst email.
Contact Boxstuff on 01983 241615 for more information.
Claire, who lives in Ventnor and runs her own book-keeping business, only joined the Lottery three months ago.
She said: “It was a big shock because I am the sort of person who never wins anything. I think I won some money on a scratch card about 20 years ago, but that’s been it!”
The prize was perfectly timed to enable Claire to give her daughter Taya some extra spending money for her dream trip to Disneyworld in Florida later this month, after having operations to straighten her legs; and to give her other daughters Anula and Rudina extra treats on a holiday to CentreParcs.
Claire, who has two numbers in the Isle of Wight Lottery, said she joined because it seemed a more worthwhile alternative to the National Lottery, and because it supported jobs on the Island.
CRM for SMEsAn Island web developer has launched a customer relationship management (CRM) system tailored for small businesses.
Perfectly timed prizeClaire Pateman needed all her concentration as she drove to an appointment, and heard on the car radio that she had won the £2,000 weekly prize in the Isle of Wight Lottery.
lUcKy monthOctober is a lucky month for Isle of Wight Lottery subscriber Sally Rose.
Four years ago, in October 2008, she won a £200 prize. But in 2012, her luck increased by a factor of ten as she picked up the monthly prize of £2,000.
Sally lives in Binstead, and works from home with her husband Kim, a surveyor.
She will be spending the money on a weekend away, and added: “I will keep some back so I can give my two daughters a treat, too.”
Sally joined the Isle of Wight Lottery seven years ago.
“We’re in business ourselves, so it seemed right to support a Lottery that helps people start and develop their business,” she said.
For more information, go to www.isleofwightlottery.com
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Lifeline Alarm Systems Ltd W. www.lifeline-security.co.ukThe Island Security Centre E. [email protected] T. 01983 521621Newport F. 01983 523250Isle of Wight, PO30 5UX
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08 The Business Magazine for the Isle of Wight
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Experts View: GlanvillesDo It Yourself
overpaid as a consequence of DIY IHT accounts reporting property values at a too high a level.
Without professional “know-how” it is easy to overpay tax, especially with the current volatility of markets. When someone dies all their assets are re-valued for capital gains tax (CGT) purposes. When they are subsequently sold at ‘death value’ no CGT arises. However, especially in the case of shares and properties, values fluctuate. If the value has gone up or down it may be possible to avoid or reduce an additional charge to tax or to reclaim some of the tax paid. Whether this is possible depends on who makes the sale (i.e. the Executor or the beneficiaries) and the time frame within which it is made. Each asset can be dealt with differently. This offers great planning opportunities but if it is done incorrectly there is no going back – you only get one shot and the rules are complex.
Executors are personally liable if they get things wrong but they can employ a professional to help. The Glanvilles Private client team offer expert assistance with all aspects relating to Probate work AND at competitive rates.
Email [email protected] or go to www.glanvilles.co.uk
We are a nation of DIY enthusiasts – which is great. However, certain jobs require a professional as the consequences and risk of getting it wrong simply outweigh the short-term savings of having done the job ‘on the cheap’.On the death of a loved one administering the estate and getting probate is increasingly done as a DIY job – but at what cost?
The Revenue are increasingly willing and able to impose hefty penalties (up to 100% of the tax) if inheritance or other tax accounts contain errors.
At the same time, HMR&C recently announced that millions of pounds of tax have been
Around 1,000 people turned out to watch a kite festival at Bembridge Down, featuring specially designed kites that showcased the importance of the natural environment. Spectrum had organised workshops in community flats, schools and other settings, trained ‘kite leaders’ in how to run group workshops, and held a kite making master class at the Carnival Learning Centre.
“Natural Wight is all about raising awareness of endangered Island wildlife as well as encouraging people to celebrate nature and our fantastic Island environment … what better way to spend the day outdoors than by flying kites, and in an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty no less!” said Claire Hector, Natural Wight Project Co-ordinator.
“The day was a great success and exceeded our expectations,” said Rachel Jagger-Thomas, Project Manager of Natural Wight. “This was definitely helped by the glorious weather which was perfect for kite flying.
“There appears to be real appetite to make this an annual event, so we hope to be able to run it on an even bigger and better scale next year!”
Eco awardEco-fashion brand Rapanui has won the 2012 Sustainability Award at the Hampshire Business Awards.
The judging panel praised its innovative approach to informing customers about where their clothing comes from and how it is made.
The company has recently begun making eco clothing for businesses, brands and events including Red Bull, The Met Office and The University of St Andrews.
Rapanui’s eco-labelling simplifies fashion supply chains into an A-G sustainability rating, based on the energy rating system.
The company was also highly commended in the RSPCA Good Business Award for Fashion.
New defence businessAn Island history lover has launched a new business that is bringing the past to life – courtesy of the lost martial art of Bartitsu.
Kite festival takes offCommunity involvement soared at an event organised by Spectrum Medina, as part of its Natural Wight project.
Island schoolchildren William and Grace Vincent show off their handmade kites with Natural Wight’s Rachel Jagger-Thomas and Claire Hector.
Lifeline winLifeline Alarm Systems has been named Small to Medium Security Installer of the Year at a national award ceremony.
The Island company won the top prize at the National Security Excellence Awards for showing ‘the highest standards of workmanship, professionalism and customer support’.
Mark Lee, Managing Director of Lifeline, said: “This is a massive achievement for us. I would like to dedicate our win to the hard working team that makes up Lifeline.”
a load of growthLCM Systems Ltd, designers and suppliers of load cells and instrumentation, has launched a new corporate identity and website, and expanded its Island headquarters by over 70 per cent.
Managing Director Steve Sargeant said: “With all the growth and a faster and more efficient service, we felt it was time this was reflected in our corporate image. We have completely redesigned our logo to show a modern and forward-thinking company, whilst still signifying our industrial focus.”
LCM Systems’ website at www.lcmsystems.com has also been redesigned to enable customers to quickly and easily find the products they want. The site’s resources area also provides load cell users with a range of technical material, including datasheets as free downloads, instruction manuals and free software for LCM’s range of data logging and telemetry instrumentation.
Dan Whitehead has formed a Bartitsu Club – one of only a handful in the world – to teach a discipline that was imported to the UK more than a century ago, and was used by Sherlock Holmes in his fight to the death with Moriarty.
Now, thanks to the revival in interest in Sherlock Holmes through television and film, Bartitsu is making a comeback.
Dan – a lifelong devotee of historical re-enactments – has always been interested in
martial arts and launched his business with the help of the Enterprise Allowance scheme after losing his job in Newport.
Bartitsu is an adaptation of the Japanese martial art of ju-jitsu, given a Western twist by Edward William Barton-Wright.
Dan said: “He realised that Western society did not have a recognised system of self defence, and came up with his own version. He opened a Bartitsu Club in London in 1899 but it only survived for three years. It was forgotten for a century until researchers rediscovered it, and now there are practitioners in several countries.
“I have worked through his instruction book with my brother, Pete, and I have also given instruction in stage and sword fighting, so when I lost my job in a pub, it struck me that this might be my opportunity to start something new.”
Dan has joined the Enterprise Club run by the Isle of Wight Chamber of Commerce and JobCentre Plus, and said the Enterprise Allowance scheme had been a lifeline.
“I was awarded a loan of £1,000 through the scheme, and that enabled me to open a business account, and get the club going,” he said. “I have eight students already, meeting once a week, and my aim is to have classes at different venues round the Island.”
For more information, send a message to [email protected], or go to the facebook page of The Bartitsu Club – Isle of Wight.
The InterviewPlugging in to the Island networkKeVIN WILsON MeeTs THe HARD WORKING PAUL WHeeLeR
Paul Wheeler’s working day starts at 6.30am and fi nishes at 5pm.Thirty fi ve years after launching a career as a solicitor, he remains just as motivated and just as enthusiastic. It might explain why he is the same weight now that he was at the age of 18.
Paul and his family moved to the Island in 2001 when he retired as a solicitor in Oxfordshire, and opened a guest house. It wasn’t long before he started doing occasional work, producing wills and dealing with probate. Inevitably, the work built up and three years later, Paul Wheeler Solicitors was born.
“Retiring and starting up again may sound strange to some,” he said. “But I had made a break, and I have never looked back. My aim now is to fi nd someone with energy and enthusiasm, and the right attitude, who could eventually take over the business from me. But I’m not ready to stop just yet!”
Paul went to the College of Law at Guildford straight from school and knew he was on the right track when he found himself in the top three or four students.
Times have changed during his career, and one of the biggest is the use of technology.
“We used to have to type out documents that are now emailed, and because of improvements like this, customer expectations
have rightly changed,” he said. “Our work is much more led by the client now.
“But it is interesting that, for all the developments in the web and social media, so much depends on face to face contact.”
Paul is an active member of the Isle of Wight Chamber of Commerce, Tourism and Industry, and a regular at networking events.
“Networking is as much about listening, as anything else,” he said. “I know some people do not like it, but it does have a positive eff ect on business.
“I think of my work as helping people achieve what they want to achieve, working as part of a social structure. My networking is
part of that. I am also a member of the Vectis Sunrise Rotary Club.
“The Island is a good place to do business, though transport to and from the mainland is always a headache! Around 60 per cent of our work is residential conveyancing and it has remained pretty steady over the years.
“The world of private practice is under threat, much like many other small businesses. Supermarkets are moving into conveyancing, and some lenders
are restricting membership of their panels, but our hope is that a good personal and local service will win through.”
Paul’s long working day means he can certainly claim to be open all hours. But as if that wasn’t enough, he is often in the offi ce on Saturdays too …
“ Networking is as much about listening, as anything else. I know some people do not like it, but it does have a positive eff ect on business.”
10 The Business Magazine for the Isle of Wight November / December 2012 11
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“ A broad-based approach is vital, because property is an increasingly complicated business, and of course it spreads the risk from a fi nancial point of view.”
Richard Dickson, Managing Partner
service so that we can advise and support people in any situation.
“A broad-based approach is vital, because property is an increasingly complicated business, and of course it spreads the risk from a fi nancial point of view. Not every department will make money. It’s one reason I was keen to have an auction room, too.
“Matching this diversifi ed approach to a focus on the customer is perhaps the most important part, and I’d like to think that we have got this right. We can advise and assist on any property issue, and we look after our clients. Above all, we try to be fair.”
The world is a far more aggressive, competitive place than it used to be,
Doing property properly
KeVIN WILsON PROFILes THe WORK OF AN IsLAND INsTITUTION: HOse RHODes DICKsON
COMPANY PROFILe COMPANY PROFILe
12 The Business Magazine for the Isle of Wight November / December 2012 17November / December 2012 13
but Richard says the company is sticking to its principles.
Back in the 1960’s, when Richard began his career, houses were selling for about £1,000, sales were completed with a handshake, and chains were rarely broken. Now, around 25 per cent of all property transactions break down for various reasons.
“It is harder to do business,” he said. “But we are sticking to our guns, with honest valuations backed up by a quality service. We have turned down jobs several times because of these principles, and we are determined to plough our own furrow because it is the right thing to do, and because we believe we will retain the trust and respect of our customers.
“Trust and confi dence are the really important things.”
That’s particularly true in a volatile market, and property is often regarded as the country’s economic barometer.
Contrary to the headlines, HRD reports that the retail property market on the Island is holding up rather well.
The dictionary defi nitions seem straightforward enough, but property agents like Hose Rhodes Dickson (HRD) operate in the often sensitive area that lies between them.
Property suggests possession, which in turn suggests possessiveness, and HRD’s 66 employees work every day with people like you and me, who get emotionally as well as fi nancially attached to bricks and mortar – whether that is a home, commercial property, or a holiday let.
Experience obviously counts in such a high pressure and often sensitive environment, and HRD have it.
The company can justifi ably claim to be an Island institution. It was formed in Ventnor in 1990 by Jeff Hose and Mark Rhodes. Richard Dickson joined the fi rm two years later, and there are now fi ve partners and three associate partners.
Five partners and fi ve offi ces - in Newport, Ryde, Shanklin, Ventnor and Bembridge - and its services cover just about every aspect of the property business.
These include private residential sales; auctions; commercial sales, including hotels and guest houses and land and development sales; surveys and valuations; country house sales; residential and holiday lettings; and fi nancial services.
As managing partner, Richard Dickson oversees the business with all the expertise of someone who has been in the estate agency business on the Island for over 45 years. Originally an equity partner in Watson Bull and Porter, he became managing director of the business when it was purchased by the Nationwide in 1987, before joining HRD fi ve years later.
He said: “It is diffi cult to be all things to all people, but in property, you have to try. We set ourselves the task of providing a complete
PROPERTY: A thing or things belonging to someone; possessions collectively; A building or buildings and the land belonging to it or them.
Nick Callaghan, Head of Commercial Agency, said high street property is being sold and activity levels are high.
“Most of what we do doesn’t make the headlines, for obvious reasons,” he said. “But we have very good relationships with major companies who are keen to invest on behalf of clients who believe in the high street.”
Recent transactions include the sale of a former outdoor store in Newport, which is to open as a Costa coff ee house, and two former health and vitamin shops.
Nick said commercial property activity generally was doing well on the Island, with the recent sale of two substantial offi ce blocks, and the renting of another, all to Island businesses looking to expand.
Warehouse units are also selling well, with cash buyers apparently keen to invest their money in this sector, particularly for the smaller units of around £100,000 sale price.
“We are still in a recession, but Hose Rhodes Dickson’s commercial department is turning over substantially more than last year, and that was the year we doubled our turnover,” he said. “Part of that is because we are good at what we do, but it is also an indication that the Island economy is holding up.
Continued on page 14
Nick Callaghan, Richard Dickson and Lisa Mercer
COMPANY PROFILe
14 The Business Magazine for the Isle of Wight
“We are still getting mainland businesses wanting to come here, too, and as a result the company has put more resources into commercial property. We work with other commercial agencies on the Island in a co-operative way because it is in everyone’s best interests. For example, we sold offi ces in Pyle Street, Newport, and they were let out to tenants by another agent.”
The headlines would also have us believe that no-one wants to invest in tourism on the Island, but that’s not true either. HRD has just
completed the sale of a 16 bedroom hotel in Shanklin – the fourth substantial hotel sale this year.
Nick said: “There is no real pattern at the moment, but certainly the levels of commercial activity are quite high. It’s not all plain sailing for some, of course.
“Even though fees are tight, a big part of what we do is about investing our time to understand our clients and support them. We are working with four businesses in the industrial sector that are doing very well and
want to expand into larger premises, but there is no regional funding to support them.”
Residential sales remain sluggish. At the height of the property boom in the late 1980’s, around 8,000 homes were sold in a year. This year, sales are expected to reach 2,000.
Richard said: “It’s fairly fragile at the moment. But it proves the importance of being active across the whole property sector. Confi dence has certainly slipped, but commercial is strong, residential lettings are buoyant, and our auction rooms are successful.
“Our plans for the future are to carry on as we are. I’d like to open another offi ce on the Island, but we have no plans to spread our wings beyond the Isle of Wight. This is where we do business, and there’s enough to keep us busy!
“The important thing is to be able to adapt. When I started work, it was important to have an agricultural department, not just for farm sales but for the building land that became available, and the sale of properties that were subsequently built on it. But there are now very low levels of activity and only a few specialist agricultural departments around the country.”
It’s a good example of the changes that have taken place in the property environment. The national culture has changed too - making people more acquisitive and more avaricious.
Meanwhile, Hose Rhodes Dickson continues to work in the spaces between the dictionary defi nitions …
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November / December 2012 15
16 The Business Magazine for the Isle of Wight
Dressing to impress
KeVIN WILsON FINDs THAT We ARe sTILL PRePAReD TO sPeND MONeY ON LOOKING GOOD
FeATURe
Business gurus tell us that perception is everything, and it seems that all of us have taken it seriously.
November / December 2012 17
FeATURe
“ In the end, people are looking for value, and our core customers shop with us because they know they get it.”
Steve Robson, Visual Impact
“Conditions are pretty tough for everyone at
the moment, but we have always adapted
to changing trends and I think it has
benefi ted us.”Robert Hobbs, Hobbs Jewellers
Personal image is cited as an important factor in many consumer purchasing decisions, and the Island is building a reputation as the home of some high end, independent shops.
We spoke to some of them …
Steve Robson opened Visual Impact, Newport in 1985 at the age of 19, and says it’s been pretty much steady growth ever since.
“We were knocked back by the recession, but we made the decision to go for quality clothing and we made it through,” he said. “I opened up a separate menswear shop about a year ago, and have invested around £100,000 in new stock this year.
“The fashion business is always a bit of a gamble because I need to order six to eight months in advance, but over the years you get to know what your customers want, and a lot of buying is just instinct.”
Steve said the main change recently has been seeing people want to buy items that will retain their good looks and generally will not go out of fashion. Barbour has experienced something like a 500 per cent increase in turnover in the last two years because it has adapted its clothing to a more tailored look, and other labels like Farah have also reinvented themselves.
Steve said: “We get a lot of business owners and managers coming in, but they are not just coming in for business suits, but for quality smart casual wear. People don’t dress too formally for business any more – it’s no longer all about the black suit, and we hardly ever sell ties now!
“In the end, people are looking for value, and our core customers shop with us because they know they get it. The important thing for us is to stay on trend, and we have a mix of brands, but we will never compromise on quality.”
Jackie and Richard Cook opened the Joules fashion shop in Cowes 11 years ago as one of the fi rst franchise outlets for what has grown to become a massive brand with a £60 million annual turnover.
One of the rewards for their early enthusiasm for the label was to become one of only three franchises to represent Joules at some of the country’s biggest events, including county shows, game shows and garden events.
It’s hard work - Jackie and Richard attend something like 40 big events a year, and are on their feet for around 10 hours a day – but apart from generating revenue, it’s a great way of fi nding out what sells.
Jackie said: “The original focus of Joules was in colourful outdoor clothing, and trends at the moment are in knitwear and tweed. Tweed is a classic, and is proving a good example of investment dressing – people like it because it is timeless and keeps its good looks.
“We were the fi rst to open a shop, apart from the one owned by the founders. Now, we attend so many events, it means I don’t spend much time at the Cowes shop. This was one reason why we closed our other other shop in Newport a year ago. The other was that business rates were so high, and when the lease was due
for renewal, we decided that we already had more than enough to keep us busy!”
Jackie said the Joules brand had a loyal following, and the national marketing was very eff ective. “People see the clothes in magazines and newspapers, and want to buy the same things in the shop,” she said.
“Joules do a lower price range, and are also launching a loyalty scheme, which will also give members a preview of the warehouse sales before the general public.
“One of the best pieces of advice I ever got was from Tom Joules, who told me that your fi rst loss is your best loss. It was a good reminder that there is no point carrying stock that isn’t selling, and that message has stayed with me.”
Jackie and Richard may be on the road most of the year, but they are keeping an eye open for larger premises in Cowes.
The name Hobbs has been synonymous with jewellery on the Island since 1946, and the family business has remained in Ryde since it fi rst opened its doors.
Founded by Edward Hobbs, the company was then run by his son John, and is now managed by John’s son Robert – who joined the business straight from school.
Some of the most dramatic changes have taken place in the last few years, according to Robert, mainly because of the rapidly escalating cost of gold and silver.
He said: “Prices went through the roof, and items began to move beyond the reach of the average person. We introduced a selective buying service, and many people have used us for that purpose. We will then re-sell the item either through the shop, or through contacts on the mainland.
“The trend at the moment is for a lot more bling in the workplace. Women tend to wear more jewellery anyway, and work seems to be no diff erent – except where working conditions don’t allow it.”
Robert said where once women would have one or two items of jewellery they wore all the time, they tend now to treat them as wardrobe items that are changed regularly. Men are much more image conscious, too, he said.
Continued on page 18
steve Robson, Visual Impact
Jackie Cook, Joules Robert Hobbs, Hobbs Jewellers
18 The Business Magazine for the Isle of Wight
FeATURe
“Most men have fi ve or six watches,” he said, “and an increasing number of men are coming to us for stud earrings, usually in diamante. It’s hard for us to say what percentage of sales is related to business use because the line that used to divide casual and business is not so clearly defi ned now.”
Hobbs used to sell a range of gifts from a separate shop in Ryde, but have now rented it out.
Gifts for sale at the shop in High Street, Ryde, are mainly geared towards weddings, and they are one of the mainstays of the business, along with jewellery and watch repairs.
Rob said: “Conditions are pretty tough for everyone at the moment, but we have always adapted to changing trends and I think it has benefi ted us.”
One illustration of that is that Hobbs is now developing a full e-commerce website, due for launch in the New Year.
Ace Shoe Repairs in Newport is kept busy coping with competition from supermarkets and the internet – and by serving customers keen to preserve their precious and often expensive leather fashion goods.
Christina Pike took over the business from her father in 1999, around 50 years after he fi rst
set up shop in St James’ Street. He built up a good trade selling and repairing shoes, but then the big chain stores sailed in and sales dried up.
Christina now runs the shop with her partner Paul Carey from premises on Pyle Street and says that repairs are still the mainstay of the business.
“It is surprising how many businesspeople come in here with expensive shoes and boots that they want to repair,” she said. “People are spending more on clothes and shoes and tend to want to keep them for longer,” she said. “For example, someone with a favourite pair of designer boots costing £300 or more can keep them by spending £20 with us having the zip replaced.
“People are far more aware of their appearance now, and they realise that keeping footwear smart is important, too, especially when you are trying to make an impression.”
Ace Shoe Repairs carries out around 200 repairs to shoes, handbags, and other leather goods every week, but has diversifi ed over the years to increase footfall.
“The internet is having an eff ect on us,” said Christina, “but we also stock Army surplus, camping equipment, bags and boots, and people love the fact that we have diff erent colour shoe polishes and a hundred diff erent colour shoe laces, too.
“We like to tell people we can keep them looking good, and it’s been good to see that new customers are still discovering us, even though we’ve been in Newport for 60 years or more!”
Paul Carey, Ace shoe Repairs
Gold, White gold & silver jewellery
Diamonds and precious gem stones
Professional, reliable jewellery repairs
Gi�s and wedding items
Valuations
Mechanical and quartz watch servicing
Buying gold and second hand items
Stockist of Lovelinks
Tel:
Ladieswear 3/4 Watchbell Lane, Newport
01983 525665
Menswear 21 Holyrood St, Newport
01983 821908
Paul Smith, Ted Baker, Ralph Lauren, Barbour, Part Two, French Connection, Great Plains, Firetrap, UGG, Australia, Levi’s, Fred Perry, Lyle & Scott, Diesel, Pretty Green, Farah,
Vintage, G-Star, Nudie Jeans, Hudson, Timberland.
www.visualimpact.co.uk
Quality and Style since 1985
Ace Shoe Repairs
92 Pyle Street
Newport
Isle Of Wight
PO30 1UH
Telephone: 01983 523068
November / December 2012 19
“ Food sales account for 70 per cent of the business, so having a team of chefs who know what they are doing is vital,”
Martin Bullock, Inns of Distinction/Famiy Pubs
“ The important thing is to never lose sight of the fact that you have to be able to off er your customer good quality, good value and good service.”
Barry Cass, The Duke of York
November / December 2012 21
sPOTLIGHT
20 The Business Magazine for the Isle of Wight November / December 2012 21
sPOTLIGHT
A passion for pubs
KeVIN WILsON MeeTs TWO MeN WHO HAVe eMBRACeD THe CHANGe IN THe LICeNseD TRADe
When smoking was banned in pubs, and drink driving laws were tightened, many predicted the end of the licensed trade.
Admittedly, some have suff ered as the traditional image of a dartboard, a pint and a smoke has slowly dissolved. But food has now replaced tobacco, customers are just as likely to order a glass of Merlot as a pint of bitter, and businesses with imagination and determination are enjoying good times.
Most pubs on the Island now target customers who want to eat out – a very diff erent market… and two Island businessmen with a lifelong passion for pubs talked to us about how they’ve adapted.
After years of experience in retail, the pub business started off as something of a sideline for Martin Bullock.
Now he owns and manages fi ve Island pubs and says it’s become a passion.
Martin is motivated by the desire to deliver a quality customer experience under two brands – Inns of Distinction, and Family Pubs.
The Inns of Distinction include The New Inn at Shalfl eet (acquired in 1997), The Boathouse near Seaview (2010), and The Fishbourne (2011). Family Pubs are The Horse and Groom at Ningwood (2006), and this year’s addition - The Griffi n at Godshill.
In between, he has bought and sold the Bugle in Yarmouth, the Rose and Crown in Newport (now Olivo’s), the Windmill at Bembridge, and the Twisted Oak in his home town, Exeter.
The acquisition of The Griffi n this year provides an illustration of the company’s approach.
Martin said: “It was a pub that had lost its way, to be honest, though it had been successful for a time. The fi rst thing we did was a refurbishment, looking at the pub from the outside as well as inside, and we did not open the doors until we were satisfi ed.
“People are looking for value for money, which doesn’t necessarily mean cheapness. But they are also looking for cleanliness, a welcome, a good fi rst impression, an experience that makes them feel they are important to us.
“It’s my retail background, I suppose. I have been to some pubs on the mainland and been amazed. One had a set of jump start leads behind the bar. My attitude is to lead by example and I visit every pub and will often help out behind the bar. I love it!
“We are building brands, and we are planning another acquisition next Spring.”
The timing of acquisitions is critical, of course, but perhaps not for the obvious reasons of fi nance. Martin and his management team build customer and kitchen skills through apprenticeships, and continuous training and development. As chefs reach higher standards, the stage is set for a new pub, and the recruitment of new starters to move in on the ground fl oor of the business.
“Food sales account for 70 per cent of the business, so having a team of chefs who know what they are doing is vital,” said Martin.
Drinks account for the other 30 per cent, but beer is only a small element of that total. Wine, coff ee and soft drinks are now more popular than beer.
Business expansion has been impressive but it hasn’t been a stroll in the park. The recession was a challenge to many, and Martin said it was an opportunity to look closely at every part of the business to see where savings could be made.
Lessons learned on the way include the importance of re-investing in the business, and of keeping records of special off ers and promotions to ensure that they actually attract new customers.
“The important thing is that we are all part of a team,” Martin said. “And that the team’s mission is to make the customer happy.”
Barry Cass became one of the youngest landlords in the country when he took over the Duke of York in Cowes at the age of 21. He’s been there ever since, and says trying to compare the trade now is like trying to compare a pushbike with a jet.
“The change has been radical,” he said. “I was one of the fi rst to introduce hot food, and people told me it would never work because people only go to the pub for a drink.
“Once upon a time, pubs were places where people smoked and drank a lot and fell out of the door at closing time. Nowadays, pubs have to be more like restaurants but I think it’s still important to retain the pub atmosphere, so the challenge is to achieve the right balance.
“We also have to be aware that times are hard for many people, so we have to be very careful in our pricing while still serving up quality. We have kept our prices down because of the recession, plus we keep our staff all year round, so it is really important for us to keep thinking ahead and be fl exible.
“At the same time, people are very discerning, whether it is a question of food or the wine they have with the meal, so we have had to become much more aware of trends.”
Soon after taking over the pub, Barry has bought and sold many and varied businesses, ranging from pubs to fruit machines, but his energetic expansion came at a price - he suff ered a heart attack at the age of 40, and decided to concentrate on the Duke of York, which he now runs with his wife Sally and their four daughters.
“It’s very much a family business to this day,” he said. “My dad worked in the brewing industry all his life and he’s in his 80s now, but he still comes in to see us and takes an interest.
“Over the years, you learn that nothing lasts forever. I’ve seen big companies open and fold up; the smoking ban reduced our wet trade by 30 per cent straight away; our pub darts and bar billiards teams slowly disappeared … I suppose it’s the same for any small business, but you certainly need to be light on your feet in this trade!”
The Duke of York prides itself on remaining a traditional pub, but one that also serves good quality food. It also functions as a hotel,
and its eight rooms are supplemented by accommodation at other local premises during the peak months. Its budget accommodation is particularly popular during Cowes Week, when the pub also opens up a ‘snack shack’ and puts on live music.
Meanwhile, smokers are catered for in a heated, covered space at the back.
In the end, though, Barry says it is all about service. “The rules and regulations seem to increase, and you can sometimes feel overwhelmed. But the important thing is to never lose sight of the fact that you have to be able to off er your customer good quality, good value and good service.”
Barry worked in the brewing industry before he became a landlord, so it’s fair to say that he has devoted his whole life to the pub trade.
Despite a heart attack more than 20 years ago, he is still going strong, and has just signed a lease on the Duke of York for another 20 years...
Martin Bullock, Inns of Distinction / Family Pubs
sally & Barry Cass with their daughter Traci
November / December 2012 21November / December 2012 23
CHAMBeR NeWs
Businesses with 170 years membership between them were honoured at the annual meeting of the Isle of Wight Chamber of Commerce, Tourism and Industry.Certifi cates were presented at the event, held at Gurnard Pines, by the Chamber President David Groocock.
22 The Business Magazine for the Isle of Wight
10 YeARs (BRONZe)Hydromar Limited
David Frank Associates
Isle of Wight Opportunity Society (Isle of Wight Lottery)
Seaward Marine Limited
Andrew Turner MP
20 YeARs (sILVeR)Phillips Fine Foods Limited
Harris Associates
Steve Porter Transport Group
The Eight Bells
RG Combustions
Surface Mount Technology
Long service awards
Saving money and thinking smarter is always a good idea, and the Isle of Wight Chamber of Commerce, Tourism and Industry believes it has just about the best off ers available to help any business.
For more information about all the benefi ts and services provided by the Island’s Chamber, contact [email protected]
MeMBeR BeNeFIT
Chamber’s top notch benefi ts
Kerstine Andrews,Membership Offi cer
Recipients were:
Money-saving benefi ts available to the growing list of Island businesses that have signed up to membership include:
Free Legal Advice Line: Chamber Advice Line is a free 24-hour telephone advice service, available every day of the year.
Free Legal Expenses Insurance: Free Chamber Legal Expenses Insurance includes £50,000-worth of indemnity cover.
Legal Expenses Insurance Enhanced Cover: This Policy can be purchased and covers areas such as restrictive covenants, debt recovery and contractual disputes. The excess applicable under the free membership benefi t is automatically waived as well.
Discounts on Tourism Marketing Publications: Chamber tourism members will receive discounts on advertising in tourism guides produced by the Chamber of Commerce and also on the Chamber’s tourism website www.gowight.com
Debit and Credit Card reduced processing rates: The Chamber has negotiated competitive terms with Lloyds TSB Cardnet for processing payments via Debit and Credit Cards, which includes a dedicated corporate account support team.
Business to Business Member Discount Scheme: A scheme off ered by fellow members, giving discounts on business related activities including van hire, website design, security services, Island travel discounts, and more.
Chamber Connect Card: A free card giving access to business facilities, corporate hospitality events and local networking opportunities throughout the UK. It also provides discounted rates for access to executive UK and international airport lounges, hotel accommodation and restaurant meals.
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November / December 2012 25
Woodcliffe Holiday ApartmentsBryce Wilson
Self Catering
01983 852397
www.woodcliffe.net
Undercliff Drive, St Lawrence, Isle of Wight. PO38 1XJ
Tcuk - Transport Consultants UK LtdMarc Morgan-Huws
Transport and Travel services
01983 629330
www.transportconsultantsuk.com
12 Downside, Ventnor, Isle of Wight. PO38 1AL
The DropGlen Walker
Attractions
01983 530130
www.thedropskatepark.com
Unit 4c, Riverbank Industrial Estate, Hurstake Road, Newport, Isle of Wight. PO30 5YH
The RowboroughMichelle Tarrant
Guest Accommodation
01983 866072
www.rowboroughhotel.com
32 Arthurs Hill, Shanklin, Isle of Wight. PO37 6EX
Claverton B&BHarry Metz
Guest Accommodation
01983 613015
www.clavertonhouse.co.uk
12 The Strand, Ryde, Isle of Wight. PO33 1JE
Bishops PrintersGareth Roberts
Printers
023 92 334900
www.bishops.co.uk
Walton Road, Farlington, Portsmouth. PO6 1TR
New Members
Ventnor Botanic Garden CICJohn Curtis
Attractions
01983 855397
www.botanic.co.uk
Undercliff Drive, Ventnor, Isle of Wight. PO38 1UL
Phileas FoggMark Randerson
Restaurant / Cafe
01983 855500
www.phileasfogsrestaurant.co.uk
11 High Street, Ventnor, Isle of Wight. PO38 1RZ
The sandhillSteve Pointon
Guest Accommodation
01983 403635
www.sandhill-hotel.com
6 Hill Street, Sandown, Isle of Wight. PO36 9DB
serendipity DiamondsMark Johnson
Jewellery / Accessories
01983 567283
www.serendipitydiamonds.co.uk
22 George Street, Ryde, Isle of Wight. PO33 2EW
CFO FoodsMaria And Geoff Lewis
Food/Drinks Wholesalers
01983 614639
www.cfofoods.co.uk
48 Well Street, Ryde, Isle of Wight. PO33 2RZ
NFU Mutual Isle Of WightJohn Heather
Insurance Services
01983 522290
2 Langley Court, Pyle Street, Newport, Isle of Wight. PO30 1LA
Wisteria HousePhil Gillan
Guest Accommodation
01983 295999
www.wisteriahousebandb.com
191 York Avenue, East Cowes, Isle of Wight. PO32 6BE
Datacom systems LtdTerry Arnold
Computer Services
01983 200064
www.datacom-systems.org
178 York Avenue, East Cowes, Isle of Wight
Isle Of Wight County Playing Fields AssociationAlec Soars
Activity and Leisure Services
01983 280252
www.isleofwightplayingfields.co.uk
21 Anchorage Way, East Cowes, Isle of Wight. PO32 6LQ
The White LionKatie Cole
Public Houses
01983 528479
www.white-lion-arreton.com
Main Road, Arreton, Isle of Wight. PO30 3AA
Isle Of Wight Professional support services LtdRachael Williams
Business services
07826 844284
PO Box 119, Shanklin, Isle of Wight. PO36 6BZ
Isle Of Wight Tourist CardM Purser
Business services
07818 444327
www.iowtouristcard.com
Inner Spaces, 79 Place Road, Cowes, Isle of Wight. PO31 7AF
Island PAJacqui Stannett
Business services
01983 719744
www.islandpa.com
62 Lea Road, Sandown, Isle of Wight. PO36 9HZ
China ChinaWing Chan
Restaurant / Cafe
01983 200800
www.chinachinarestaurant.co.uk
The Parade, Cowes, Isle of Wight. PO31 7QJ
Want to join the Chamber network?Contact Kerstine Andrews for the full story about the low cost and high value benefits...
Events19 NovemberChamber Training – Delivering service excellence Chamber of Commerce Board Room
9.30am – 5pm
Isle of Wight Chamber of Commerce, in association with Blue Ark Consultants and TSE, are introducing a new Customer Service training course for IW Chamber members.
Delivering Service Excellence is a new course that covers all business sectors and is part of the leading Welcome to Excellence training programme.
It is a highly practical, interactive one day training course that will show how service excellence improves your team’s performance.
The Delivering Service Excellence course will give your staff the confidence to immediately use their customer service skills effectively and will motivate them to provide world class service and boost sales. Delivering Service Excellence highlights why customer service is key to the success of your business.
It offers a practical, proven route for staff to deliver world class standards in their organisation.
Please call to book your places and make your payment
Members £45.00 per person
Non-Members £55.00 per person
23 NovemberIsle of Wight Chamber of Commerce Business Awards for excellence. Cowes Yacht Haven.
7pm – 12am
Tickets are now available for this year’s Award of Excellence.
Four course gourmet dinner, including wine, and entertainment from music legend Kiki Dee.
Dress code: Black tie.
Call now to book your tickets.
Tickets £55.00 = VAT
Table of 10 £500.00 plus VAT
3 DecemberCinema Night Deluxe screen, Cineworld, Coppins Bridge
6pm
Free To Chamber Members
Come and enjoy the screening of the new release, ‘Great Expectations’.
Cineworld are kindly offering Chamber Members the chance to enjoy the relaxed atmosphere of the Deluxe Screen and private bar area.
7 DecemberBusiness Breakfast Meeting The eight Bells, Carisbrooke
7.30am – 9am
An excellent networking opportunity to meet and present your business to other members while enjoying a full English breakfast.
£6.00 per person
12 DecemberRapanui Christmas Grotto
1 High Street, Sandown
12pm – 4pm
Rapanui are inviting all chamber members for a Christmas network gathering at their Rapanui shop.
Their special grotto will be open, so everyone can meet the lovely Rapanui Santa and you will also save 20% discount on any purchased in store.
Festive Panini’s and coffees will be available for those wishing to buy, or mulled wine and mince pies will also be on offer for a donation.
21 Decembersanta special Isle of Wight steam Railway
1.30pm – 5pm
For the fourth year the Isle of Wight Steam Railway are celebrating Christmas with our friends and colleagues in the business community with a networking afternoon:-
This event is open to the first 100 people. Adults and children welcome. All must be pre-booked with the Chamber and are limited to 4 places per company.
There is no charge for adults or children, however any children wishing to visit Santa and receive a present there is a £6.00 charge (tokens can be purchased at the Railway on the day)
Members to arrive at Haven street station for 1.30pm for a complimentary mince pie and seasonal drink.
Magic show from 2pm and a walk around the “Winter Wonderland” grotto.
All must board the Santa Special train at 2.45pm for the 2.55pm departure, strictly in the reserved compartments
3.45pm to 5.00pm optional tea, coffee and networking in the “Calbourne Room”
17 JanuaryPsP Ltd – Training Day IW Chamber of Commerce Board Room
9.30am – 4.00pm
PSP are pleased to announce a training day aimed at supporting local businesses with their worldwide shipping.
The day is very relaxed and informal and will cover the following areas:-
Incoterms
Shipping
Abbreviations
Container specifications
Modes of shipments
Letters of credit presented by HSBC Bank Ltd
IPR and OPR
Shipping documentation
Representatives will be attending with whom we have established relationships along with members of staff from PSP Ltd who will be on hand to offer their expertise.
Lunch and refreshments will be included.
FREE TO CHAMBER MEMBERS
1 FebruaryBusiness Breakfast Meeting The William Coppin, Newport.
7.30am – 9am
An excellent networking opportunity to meet and present your business to other members while enjoying a full English breakfast.
Places limited so please book early to avoid disappointment.
£5.00 per person
November / December 2012 2726 The Business Magazine for the Isle of Wight
Check our online calendar at www.iwchamber.co.uk for details of all business events.
28 The Business Magazine for the Isle of Wight
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Personal viewWhy we are glad our son said no to university By Cara and Mark Black
“Connor always enjoyed cooking and was thrilled to find out that he could start a Young Apprenticeship in Professional Cookery.
Some of Connor’s classmates and some of our friends were surprised by his decision to take up the offer, and by the fact that we supported him 100 per cent.
He began his apprenticeship at the Royal Hotel in Ventnor. At the end of the two years, Connor was keen to find out how a Michelin star kitchen worked, and wrote to chef Tom Kerridge, who invited Connor to ‘The Hand & Flowers’ in Marlow, as his apprentice.
Connor, aged 16, has now started his new position, and we look at some of his friends and their parents, who are anxious about university debt and future job prospects, and we are thankful that Connor chose an apprenticeship and didn’t blindly follow convention.
Bearing in mind that youth unemployment is said to be at record levels and youngsters are leaving university burdened with sky high debt, we can’t help but wonder why more parents don’t encourage their children to pursue an apprenticeship.
Yes, the sceptics will argue that apprentices get paid less than the minimum wage when they start. But surely being paid a small amount and learning to manage that money and acquiring new skills is better than being unemployed and in debt? And how many university degrees can offer extensive ‘on the job’ training or turn out work-ready youngsters suited to the requirements of industry?”
Cara and Mark Black live on the Island with their three children. Cara is a housewife and Mark runs a successful electrical contracting company.
Connor was named Outstanding Work Experience Learner at the HTP apprenticeships awards this year and is pictured with his parents after receiving the award.
