In this weeks episode, James and Mark talk about the importance of forming effective teams in business. As usual, they come up with 3 top tips and make reference along the way to ‘Good to Great’ author Jim Collins, Jordan Belfort and Culture Club! If you enjoy this episode, please subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever else you get your podcasts. Whilst you are there, please like us, and leave a comment. We would love to hear what you are enjoying about the podcast, and it helps others to find us! Listen here!
UK leading refrigeration expert Foster Refrigerator is celebrating its 50th anniversary this year and is calling on customers to get involved by sharing stories of their experiences with Foster product over the last half century. The King’s Lynn-based company wants to hear from its many loyal customers and is on the hunt for the UK’s longest-standing Foster product in a commercial kitchen. Foster Refrigerator products are designed to be high quality, reliable pieces of equipment that can stand the test of time in any high pressure commercial kitchen, and have been doing so since the company started in 1968. The customer who has the longest-serving Foster product in their kitchen will be able to join in the celebrations with a brand new EcoPro G2 EP700H worth a list price of £2,500 or an equivalent product of the same value. Nick Bamber, European Head of Marketing at Foster Refrigerator says: “We say that our fridges last a lifetime with regular care and maintenance and so to mark 50 years of manufacturing we decided to put this to the test. “We’re regularly with customers in their kitchens, and it never ceases to amaze us how many Foster fridges are still fully operational and going strong after many years – we know there is a fridge out there that’s 26-years-old and going strong! Our products have a reputation for being reliable, so we know there will be products that are older still.” Dealers who are aware of longstanding Foster products can encourage owners to enter the competition. If the winning owner includes the dealer name in their entry, the dealer will receive £250 off their next order. The competition closes on 1st October 2018. To learn more about the competition and to enter visit www.fosterrefrigerator.com/competition
A leading independent East Anglian insurance broker has been acquired by Ethos Broking via its regional hub, the Norwich and Bury St Edmunds based Hugh J Boswell Group. Drayton Insurance Services was established in 1997 by Susan Howard and Darren Walsgrove. It grew through expansions and acquisitions to become one of the largest independent insurance brokers in the region, with offices in Drayton, Aylsham, Poringland and Ipswich. The sale was handled by accountancy and advisory firm Larking Gowen alongside legal firm Howes Percival. James Lay, Corporate Transactions and Business Advisory Partner at Larking Gowen who led the sale, said: “Drayton is a well-established and reputable insurance firm. Sue and Darren have done a fantastic job in building a highly successful business which has become one of the largest independent insurance brokers in the region. “It was a pleasure to support them through the process to a successful sale. This deal illustrates the demand we are seeing first-hand in the eastern region for quality businesses and the highly active marketplace for private business sales.” Will Gibbs, Corporate Transactions Senior Executive at Larking Gowen, added: “Acting as the main transaction adviser, it was great to support Susan and Darren throughout the entire process. Having prepared the business for sale, we reviewed the potential tax implications. “We then approached a select shortlist of prospective buyers, negotiated the best deal, and assisted through due diligence to completion.” The Howes Percival team, led by Oliver Pritchard with support from Richard Turner and Helaina Mann, advised the shareholders on the sale of the entire issued share capital of the company. Howes Percival’s role encompassed the entire legal transaction including helping to negotiate the heads of terms, due diligence support from specialists within the firm’s property, tax and employment teams, negotiating the detailed legal terms of the sale and overseeing completion. Oliver Pritchard commented: “Following on from an incredibly busy first quarter in 2021, in which our corporate, commercial, and banking team completed 32 deals, with a combined value of £263 million, we continue to see an extremely high volume of transactions. “There is strong demand from trade and institutional buyers for profitable, well-managed businesses. Drayton Insurance Services ticks all the boxes, with a great management team, a strong brand reputation and sustained profitable growth. We are delighted to have worked with the founders Sue and Darren, to help them achieve a successful sale of the business. Both intend to remain in the business following the sale, and I am sure it will go from strength to strength as part of the Hugh J Boswell Group.”
Process Instruments have launched a brand new website!
After over a year in the making our new website has launched. Our priority when building & designing this site was to keep the customer in mind. On the new site you will find a completely new structure that optimizes the user experience and journey. Ensuring that relevant content is accessed in as few clicks as possible. Streamlined navigation provides easy access to site pages & search, contact information, social media links & our new PI Toolbox feature.
2020 programme supported more than 160 local businesses and reported a 90% satisfaction rate.
A peer networks scheme which has already supported more than 160 local businesses and proved hugely popular is to continue into its second year, New Anglia Growth Hub has announced.
The national initiative is designed for SME leaders that want to grow and develop their organisation for future success and is funded by Government through the Department for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy (BEIS).
New Anglia Growth Hub is now to offer the programme to more than 200 eligible businesses on a first-come, first-served basis between Summer 2021 and Spring 2022.
“We are absolutely thrilled to be in the process of recruiting again for a second year of the Peer Networks Programme,” says New Anglia Growth Hub Manager Samantha Vinyard-Jones. “It has been wonderful to watch the programme progress over the past year and to the impact the sessions have had on this year’s participants”.
Businesses who are eligible to apply must have operated for at least a year, have at least five employees, a turnover of at least £100,000.00 and an aspiration to improve.
Former participant Patrick Baker of E J Baker & Sons said: “I would wholeheartedly recommend this programme to anyone who just has an interest in bettering themselves and improving their business.”
Christopher Melsa of School’s Out Activities Ltd added: “I would recommend the Peer Networks Programme to anyone who is in their business, has got day-to-day challenges, wants some guidance and someone to speak to.
“It gives you a chance to step back, re-evaluate, see where you are and where you are going. As shown with the past year, things can change so drastically quickly. So, this programme does not only help you but makes you a better businessperson for sure.”
Enrolling in a programme led by New Anglia Growth Hub is also a great way to stay up to date with hundreds of free business support services. Throughout the programme, participants are frequently provided with updated information around new grants, finance assistance, upcoming events and other specialist advice.
“We are delighted to be supporting more SME business leaders across Norfolk and Suffolk and excited to see the power of the Peer Support once more,” said Senior Programme Coordinator Grace Harrison. “For business leaders to say that they ‘no longer feel alone’ after joining the programme was an incredible testament to the programme itself and the calibre of the business consultants leading the sessions.”
“This is an incredible initiative and growth opportunity for local businesses, and I strongly advise any SMEs who are eligible to express an interest through our online form before spaces fill up.”
The gift of time, flexibility, and balance are some of the benefits people have enjoyed during the last year.
In contrast, childcare, communication, and IT were the biggest challenges as we adapted to a world of work that looked very different.
The Engaging People Company wanted to find out what it was like for people working during a pandemic – what was good, and less good, and what could be taken forward into a post-Covid world.
As well as hearing about benefits and challenges, there were some great examples of employee engagement shared too. Around communications, appreciation, social engagement, and wellbeing. For example, one employer offered unexpected incentives like free takeaways.
Looking ahead, people want continued flexibility, from their organisation, along with technical tools and engagement and communications. From managers, things such as mental health support, communications and trust are important.
Some people decided to change their career aspirations as a result of the pandemic – for reasons such as pursuing a new purpose or spending more time with family.
Director Michelle Gant said: “Thank you to everyone who shared their thoughts so openly. The survey offered some great ideas but it’s just a toe dip in the water.
“What matters is that employers ask their people: find out what matters to them, what they need, then listen, and respond accordingly. And keep asking. Because people’s views change – especially as society starts opening up more. Keep listening. Keep responding. Employee engagement, it’s not a one-off thing. It’s an ongoing journey.
Two new appointments have been made at TMS Media as the Great Yarmouth-based company continues to grow.
Stephanie Pimlott has joined as operations manager and will liaise with clients and help the business to develop.
She has spent the past 12 years as business liaison and development officer at Great Yarmouth Borough Council, promoting the town as a business location and supporting companies looking to open a base in the area. Previously she was operations co-ordinator for EEEGR (East of England Energy Group).
This new role comes at a time of expansion for the company, which was established in 1989 and represents clients in a wide range of sectors – from energy and marine to tourism and the arts.
Richard Balls has joined as a journalist and copywriter, strengthening TMS’s PR department. He was a news reporter for 20 years, working for national newspapers in Ireland before joining the Eastern Daily Press and later the Evening News, where he was news editor.
For the past 10 years he was communications manager at Norwich City Council, leading a team covering internal and external communications, websites, design and print, and providing strategic support for the leadership of the authority. He is also a published author.
TMS Media is a full-service agency, providing everything from graphic design and publicity to web development and exhibition services and employs 15 people. It has
project-managed the recent SNS 2018 conference held by East of England Energy Group at Norfolk Showground.
Steve Scott, managing director at TMS, said: “I am delighted that we have been able to add Stephanie and Richard to the team at a time when our client list is growing. Their combined experience will help the business to grow and further enhance the service we offer.”
The 23rd Lord Mayor’s 5K City Centre Classic Road Race took place in Norwich this weekend, with a record-breaking number of participants. Sponsored for the first time by chartered accountants, Larking Gowen, the race was set up in 1996, and has a reputation as one of the toughest on the UK race circuit, attracting top athletes from the county, and around the UK. “Larking Gowen has an eleven year association as sponsor of the City of Norwich Half Marathon,” says Larking Gowen Managing Partner, Jon Woolston, who presented race winners with prize money at a ceremony in Tombland on Saturday evening, “so we’re delighted to support the Lord Mayor’s 5K road race this year. This high-profile event is challenging, and exciting to watch.” Jon adds, “It’s great to be a part of that, especially as the half-way cut off in front of the Larking Gowen offices, will add some early drama.” “The Lord Mayor’s 5K Classic is an elite race,” says City of Norwich Athletic Club road race coordinator, Richard Polley, who set up the 5K race along with race director, Granville Courtnell. “The city centre roads are closed for the Lord Mayor’s Procession, which is what makes this race possible,” Richard explains, “but we only have a 20-minute window before the procession starts. If a runner doesn’t make the 10-minute halfway point in time, they are automatically disqualified. That adds to the excitement for the 50,000 spectators.” Race director, Granville Courtnell, says, “We are delighted that Larking Gowen is headline sponsor of the Lord Mayor’s 5K. We have a long and beneficial relationship with the firm through their support of the city’s half marathon, which includes providing volunteer marshals, so to have them involved with the 5K is special to us.”
As summer draws to a
close, many business leaders turn their attention to the final quarter of the
year. Q4 can make or break annual results – particularly in sectors reliant on
seasonal peaks, like retail, hospitality and professional services. But before
the year-end push begins, it’s worth taking stock. A Q3 “reality check” can
highlight both opportunities and risks, giving you the clarity needed to finish
the year strong.
End-of-Summer Business
Health Assessment
September is the ideal
time to step back and review your company’s financial position:
· Cashflow: Do you have
the liquidity to handle upcoming seasonal costs such as stock, staffing or
energy bills?
· Debts and liabilities:
Are loan repayments or tax deadlines looming?
· Performance vs
forecast: How close are you to hitting your annual targets?
Preparing for the
Crucial Q4 Trading Period
The final quarter is
often the busiest. Strong planning now can prevent stress later. Consider:
· Stock and supply chain
resilience
· Workforce planning and overtime
management
· Marketing and sales
campaigns to capture peak demand
· Contingency plans for
unexpected disruptions
Warning Signs to Watch
Certain red flags
suggest a business may struggle to cope with year-end pressures:
· Persistent cashflow
shortages
· Rising creditor
pressure or overdue payments
· Reliance on short-term
loans to cover everyday costs
· Falling margins despite
stable or rising sales
At Leading Business Services, we advise directors to act early. A timely financial health check and professional guidance can help you address issues before they escalate, leaving you ready to tackle Q4 with confidence.
We’re
Here When You’re Ready
At Leading, an
experienced insolvency and business restructuring firm, we believe in having early,
honest conversations — because the sooner we talk, the more options we can
explore together.
If your business is
experiencing financial stress, or you’re supporting a client who is, we’re here
to help. We offer confidential, no-obligation guidance tailored to each
situation.
We’re happy to speak
directly with business owners, or work in partnership with accountants and advisers.
Let’s
take the first step together — while there are still options on the table.
You can contact our friendly and experienced
team on 01603 552028 or email us at [email protected].
For the third consecutive year Pure Resourcing Solutions (Pure), a leading recruitment consultancy in eastern England, has been shortlisted for the Recruitment Firm of the Year Award at the 2014 FDs’ Excellence Awards.
Nominated by a record-breaking 1,800 chief finance officers, financial directors and other senior financial decision makers within the UK’s finance sector, the Excellence Awards applaud service providers including recruitment firms, auditors, business banks and financial software suppliers.
“We are very proud to make the shortlist for this prestigious awards category and we are the only regional independent recruitment agency to do so!” said Ian Walters, Managing Director of Pure. “The nomination means a lot to us because it is based on the opinions of our clients. It is great to know that our personal approach is highly valued by the people we work with and have recognition for that. And, as a regional recruitment consultancy, we are honoured to be shortlisted alongside the large national recruitment agencies.”
The shortlisted businesses were judged on a range of criteria including business knowledge, innovation and quality of advice. Over the last year, Pure has continued to build on its reputation as an expert in its field by offering clients guidance and information on a variety of subjects, from recruitment and retention to employee engagement.
Pure has always strived to develop new and relevant initiatives within their region that add value. Recent examples include the Senior Finance Forum in partnership with Deloitte-, Best Employers, Eastern Region with eras ltd- an initiative that identifies and promotes the best employers and encourages employee engagement and more recently, Women’s Leadership Programme. For more information on these initiatives please visit our website The winners will be announced in a ceremony, taking place at the London Marriott Hotel in Grosvenor Square on May 1st, which promises to be a superb, entertaining and inspirational event.
To find out more about Pure’s professional recruitment services, contact Anna Hill, Marketing Manager, on: 01223 209888 or [email protected]. Or visit www.prs.uk.com.
For more information about the FDs’ Excellence Awards and the full shortlist visit: www.fdsawards.co.uk.
Newcastle Falcons professional rugby player Sam Lockwood has been appointed Head of Rugby at Langley School in Norfolk.
Sam currently plays at Premiership side Newcastle Falcons and has been with the top flight club for five years. His career includes a coveted England Students cap, which he gained when playing for Yorkshire Carnegie while at Leeds Met University.
As of September 2021, Sam will be Head of Rugby and Head of Boys’ Boarding at Langley’s Senior School campus in Loddon, while his wife Charlotte will be teaching in the Pre-Prep at the Langley Prep campus in Taverham.
Langley Headmaster Jon Perriss comments, “Rugby is one of our major sports and we know that Sam will bring an incredible amount of experience and expertise to the school. We have no doubt that he will also be a role model and true leader in our boarding community. It’s an exciting time and we very much look forward to welcoming Sam and Charlotte into the Langley family.”
That’s right, BDH Tullford is giving your business the chance to win 10 TM85 foil pavement signs, plus artwork and delivery – a package worth more than £500.* Robust and hard-wearing, our pavement signs are designed to attract attention on busy streets and in store. Plus, our expert graphics team can help you create eye-catching designs that are guaranteed to stop your customers in their tracks! Want to be in with a chance of winning? Simply head on over to our website, where you’ll be able to find all the details.