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NSS wins sole supply agreement with global FM group

Partnerships

Sam Whitear

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10/06/2020

NSS wins sole supply agreement with global FM group

Nationwide Specialist Services (NSS) has been awarded a long-term service contract by ISS, the leading workplace experience and facilities management company.

As a strategic partner for almost 10 years, “NSS now delivers all aspects of window and technical cleaning across the UK for ISS”. The 5 year Framework Agreement was renewed following an in-depth negotiation process, significantly expanding on the existing relationship between the two companies. Over the period, the value of the new contract is anticipated to be in the region of £35m.

NSS is made up of four divisions: cleaning; maintenance; testing and hire. The business operates from bases in Slough, Dartford, Manchester, Leeds and Falkirk to provide complete and responsive coverage to customers across the commercial property, retail, healthcare, and public sector markets.

Commenting on the win, NSS group commercial director Eugene Boyle said: “As a business, we’re consistently striving to provide a best-in-class and reliable service. We understand the importance of a clean, well-maintained and fully operational building, and the impact any interruption to this can have on our customers’ own customers or employees. We’re delighted to be partnering with an industry-leader like ISS.”

Derren Chamberlain, ISS procurement director for UK & Ireland added: “We were looking for a truly specialist partner with a genuine focus on safety and commitment to quality. NSS’ track record for delivering responsive and effective service combined with its ‘at-height’ expertise made the opportunity to work together a compelling one.”

Professional women gather online at WIN Manchester to pioneer the future with courage

Business support

Sam Whitear

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10/06/2020

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Professional women gather online at WIN Manchester to pioneer the future with courage

WIN Manchester, a WIN-curated leadership event for professional women and men, will take place this year on the 18th of June. The event is hosted by WIN, a global women’s leadership initiative based in Lausanne, Switzerland and will be the first conference in its twenty-year history to be held entirely online, via Zoom.

The theme of the event is “Pioneering the Future, with Courage.” It will provide participants with inspiration, knowledge, practical tools and connections to help them succeed in their careers and prepare for the future.

At the event, participants will learn how women with authentic power are impacting business models and bottom lines and discover how progressive companies are embracing diversity and creating inclusive environments that foster innovation.

The speaker line-up at WIN Manchester includes:
• Baroness Beverley Hughes, Deputy Mayor for Policing & Crime
• Nazir Afzal, International Adviser on Rule of Law & Former Chief Prosecutor
• Katie Murray, Chief Financial Officer, RBS
• Susanna Lawson, CEO & Co-Founder, OneFile
• Rose Marley, Social Entrepreneur
• Sally Penni, Barrister & Founder of Women in the Law UK
• Brigit Egan, Managing Director, Oakridge Training & Consulting
• Julie Froud, Professor of Financial Innovation, Alliance Manchester Business School
• Claire-Marie Boggiano, Director & Coach, Lurig Change & Development
• Kristin Engvig, CEO & Founder, WIN & WINConference
Kristin Engvig, WIN’s Founder and CEO says “At WIN Manchester, we will ask: how can we access our inner power and strengthen our outer influence to make things happen, differently?”
WIN Manchester is supported by Alliance Manchester Business School, NatWest and Lurig Change & Development. It also has partnered with Northern Power Women, Inspiring Women, Women on Boards UK, Women in the Law UK, Female Tech Founder, Women Leading in Business, TiE, ProManchester, GM Chamber, Queen Bee Coaching, Oakridge Stride, IoD North West, Wai Yin, GM Chamber of Commerce, ICE, Empowerment House, WISE, Leading Ladies and Women in Innovation.

To book tickets click here

FLAVOUR WAREHOUSE APPOINTS NEW CHIEF FINANCE & STRATEGY OFFICER TO LEAD ONGOING GROWTH

Appointments

Sam Whitear

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10/06/2020

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FLAVOUR WAREHOUSE APPOINTS NEW CHIEF FINANCE & STRATEGY OFFICER TO LEAD ONGOING GROWTH

International e-liquid manufacturer Flavour Warehouse Ltd, owner of the market leading Vampire Vape brand, has announced the appointment of Kanesh Khilosia as Chief Finance & Strategy Officer.Kanesh will work alongside founder and CEO, Philip Boyle, to lead Flavour Warehouse’s ambitious growth plans,

Kanesh boasts an impressive track record spanning over 30 years in fast growth entrepreneurial businesses where he has held a number of leadership roles, including Armstrong Craven, a global PE backed talent mapping, pipelining and insights business, where as CEO, he had responsibility for the development and execution of the business’ strategy as well as overseeing the company’s financial performance and operational delivery. Prior to this, he was CEO at DBG, a leading healthcare services provider delivering end-to-end services to the dental, medical, chiropody and veterinary market through a membership model. He led the business through an aggressive growth phase and eventual exit, delivering an enviable return to existing shareholders. He also serves as a mentor and advisor to a number of businesses embarking on growth through external investment and acquisition.

His appointment comes as Flavour Warehouse embarks on an aggressive growth strategy to cement its market leading international position. Flavour Warehouse plans to significantly grow the business via an organic and acquisitive growth strategy, and will continue to seek appropriate acquisition opportunities where, like with its recent acquisition of Total Vapour, mutual benefits exist.

On his appointment, Kanesh comments;
“ I am really impressed by the way in which Phil and the team have developed the business and brand and am thrilled to be part of the next phase. There are phenomenal opportunities for us to expand and build on what is a solid foundation and business with a remarkable reputation and a dedicated, talented team.”

CEO Phil Boyle adds:
“I am delighted that Kanesh has joined us. He brings some incredibly strong knowledge and experience that will be vital for us as we continue our ambitious plans for growth in a rapidly changing and expanding marketplace.”

CHRIS LONERGAN JOINS TAX RELIEF SPECIALISTS CATAX TO DRIVE ACCOUNTANT ENGAGEMENT

Appointments

Sam Whitear

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10/06/2020

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CHRIS LONERGAN JOINS TAX RELIEF SPECIALISTS CATAX TO DRIVE ACCOUNTANT ENGAGEMENT

Chris Lonergan has joined specialist tax relief firm Catax as its new Partnership Development Director to further strengthen its partnership team.

Chris joins Catax from SalesLevers, a specialist in driving sales performance, where he was Head of Sales Performance Consulting from 2018.
Prior to that he was Head of Business Growth Consulting at chartered accountants Haines Watts for five years, which was his third stint with a Top 20 accounting firm.

In Chris’ new role, he will be responsible for helping accountants build collaborative partnerships with Catax. This will enable accountants’ clients to take advantage of Catax expertise on research and development (R&D) tax credits, capital allowances, and Patent Box in a professional and ethical way.

Mark Tighe, CEO of tax relief specialist Catax, commented:
“Chris’ vast experience working in accountancy firms means he is well-placed to build new working relationships and further develop existing partnerships at Catax.

“R&D tax relief, in particular, couldn’t be more important to firms carrying out research and development right now, in the middle of a global pandemic. Accountants are able to draw on our expertise by collaborating with us on behalf of their clients to ensure they receive what they are entitled to in tax relief, in a timely way.

“We are delighted to welcome Chris to the team and look forward to seeing partnerships grow as we move forward.”

Chris Lonergan, Partnership Development Director of tax relief specialist Catax, commented:

“Having worked at three ambitious Top 20 accountancy firms in business development and as a fee-earner, I can see what Catax are trying to do from all perspectives.

“Catax offers a flexible partnership programme suitable for firms of all sizes and levels of expertise.

“Numerous smaller firms do not or cannot yet offer advice on the tax reliefs we specialise in. This increases the risk that clients won’t take advantage of these schemes, giving their competitors a greater edge.

“Many mid-sized and larger accountancy firms do have a good level of knowledge but are often so snowed under with client work that they miss key elements of claims. In extreme cases this can result in their clients facing time-consuming challenges from HMRC.”

Leader of Manchester-based Ouch Training is recognised for international CEO Award

Awards

Sam Whitear

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10/06/2020

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Leader of Manchester-based Ouch Training is recognised for international CEO Award

Simon Cassin, CEO of Ouch Training, has received international recognition for his outstanding contribution to the field of health, safety and wellbeing.

The British Safety Council has shortlisted Simon in the CEO award category at this year’s International Safety Awards. New for 2020, Simon is one of five shortlisted CEOs from across the globe which includes nominations from Indonesia and Dubai. The award champions the leadership and strategic vision of a CEO who has made a vital contribution to the health, safety and wellbeing of their team and wider society throughout 2019.

Simon Cassin said: “It is truly humbling to be recognised on an international scale for our work surrounding health, safety and wellbeing. I take great joy from working alongside a range of businesses in a variety of sectors across the UK, to provide training and support which ultimately contributes to making their workplaces more healthy and safe, and allows me to support them in their quest to nurture wellbeing across the organisation.”

Simon’s contribution to the industry includes the creation and promotion of the ‘Midday Mile’ to businesses throughout the country. This health and wellbeing initiative encourages employees to take time away from their desks, allowing for a physical and psychological break from their workplace surroundings. He is also responsible for providing numerous resources to a range of sectors which support positive workplace behaviours, physical and mental wellbeing. This includes free webinars to support businesses’ understanding and implementation of health and safety procedures, user-friendly information booklets, posters and educational videos.

In addition to his wider business support, Simon has taken an active role in championing his own organisation’s health, safety and wellbeing interests. He invests in the personal wellbeing of his staff by implementing various adaptations and opportunities for development based on individual needs. Team members also have the chance to carry out volunteer roles within the local community during work time.

Susan Turner, Director of Sales and Marketing at Ouch, added: “Simon really does practice what he preaches. At Ouch we all love our ‘Midday Mile’, it really contributes towards a healthy working attitude and environment. Unlike many other CEOs, Simon takes an individual, personal approach to ensure each team member feels equipped to preform to the best of their ability.”

The Manchester-based company delivers a wide range of bespoke health, safety, and wellbeing training and support functions to businesses across the UK. Ouch’s unique teaching culture provides a creative environment to stimulate participation, conversation and collective problem-solving opportunities. The nationwide team of highly experienced trainers aim to break down the stereotypes surrounding health, safety and mental health to change perspectives in the workplace.

HMG Paints’ hand sanitiser, helping businesses get back to work

Manufacturing

Sam Whitear

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10/06/2020

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HMG Paints’ hand sanitiser, helping businesses get back to work

The UK’s largest independent coatings manufacturer, HMG Paints Ltd has expanded its production capabilities on its 70+ alcohol containing hand sanitiser. The expansion comes just in time to support businesses across the UK re-opening and implementing measures in line with government guidelines.

HMG have been providing key workers, care providers and charities throughout the pandemic with hand sanitiser, based on World Health Organisation (WHO) recommended formulations after a national shortage was announced. Rebecca Bentham, Head of Income Development at Dr Kershaw’s Hospice, who were one of many companies to receive hand sanitiser from HMG Paints, commented on their donation “We are very grateful to HMG Paints Ltd for their kind donation of hand sanitisers to Dr Kershaw’s Hospice. In these unprecedented times, our patients and staff’s safety is paramount, the donation has contributed to our nurses being able to take all relevant precautions when providing necessary care within the community.”

The Manchester Based company has been issued a permit from the HSE (Health and Safety Executive) allowing the supply and manufacture of sanitiser because of the SARS-CoV-2/coronavirus pandemic. As the UK enters a new phase with workplaces beginning to reopen, implementing health and safety measures in accordance with government guidelines, HMG have expanded production to supply local organisations in Manchester and across the UK. Authorised by the HSE the First Thing Sanitiser, which contains over 70% alcohol, can be purchased in boxes of 250ml bottles, ideal for use by individual employees as well as 5 litre refills.

“Many of our current customers have placed regular supply orders with us for hand sanitiser as they begin to return to work and implement ways to protect their employees.” Said John Falder, Managing Director. “The First Thing Sanitiser being approved by the HSE has meant we have increased our production capabilities on the sanitiser line and therefore welcome companies to get in touch with us to order sanitiser from a UK Family Business. By manufacturing right here in Britain, we can guarantee our customers a fast and continuous supply which will allow them to utilise First Thing Sanitiser in their Working Safely policies during this current time.“ Continued John.

The paints made by HMG Paints are also being utilised during the current crisis with their Commercial, industrial and decorative coatings being used on everything from hospital beds, workbenches, communication equipment, the Nightingale temporary Hospitals and buildings to the trucks and commercial vehicles keeping goods moving across the country.

Global cities pave the way for Manchester’s return to work

Business support

Sam Whitear

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10/06/2020

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Global cities pave the way for Manchester’s return to work

Greater Manchester is set to mirror actions taken by other cities across the world as they look to transform their roads, public footpaths and transport links in light of the coronavirus, according to Deloitte.

This comes after Deloitte’s research, conducted in partnership with Google, found that workers in Greater Manchester are opting for other ways of commuting, with public transport usage down 62 per cent in favour of a 22 per cent rise in cycling across the region.

Whilst these figures reveal changing attitudes towards travel, other figures show that many professionals are working from home entirely, with the number of people using workplaces down by 56 per cent since the UK entered lockdown.

To support the Greater Manchester ‘Build Back Better’ campaign, Deloitte has outlined ways in which local authorities will have to adapt in order to accommodate social distancing guidelines and new attitudes to commuting. Some of these measures include pedestrianisation of some streets to reduce motor traffic; new speed limits on town centre roads; introduction of heavy-duty barriers in busy areas to extend pavements; and maps and information packs for those walking or commuting by bike.

Examples from other parts of the world include Barcelona, which has set aside 21 kilometres of new bike corridors by replacing traffic lanes, and has committed €4.4m to adapting public spaces to facilitate more journeys by foot, bicycle or public transport. Amsterdam is encouraging citizens to walk or cycle and reduced speed limits from 50kph to 30kph.

In Sydney, buses are running at 14 per cent capacity, whilst trains will run at 24 per cent capacity. However, six pop up cycleways have been rolled out across the city, extending to 10 kilometres at a cost of $4m.

Simon Bedford, partner at Deloitte in the North West, said: “Cities across the world are facing one of the most extraordinary challenges in that their city centres will need a complete transformation. Manchester is facing a particularly tricky scenario as it is compact when compared to other European cities, and so we expect to see drastic changes to our roads and public footpaths to allow for social distancing between pedestrians.

“What will be interesting to see is how businesses, large and small, across GM and indeed the UK rise to this challenge and adapt to a potentially new way of life. It is essential that we address these issues quickly in order to minimise the threat that the virus poses to Manchester’s everyday worker, and the spotlight will be on government and local authorities over the next few months as we await to see the measures put in place.”

Sharon Thorne, Deloitte Global Board Chair, said: “The burden is not solely on the councils to make changes, but also employers as many workplaces will require completely new layouts to ensure social distancing measures can be adhered to. Larger office spaces may be required and new attitudes towards flexible working patterns may prove essential to keeping the risk of spreading infection to a minimum. Many businesses will have found success working from home during the lockdown, which will provide further challenges to management teams as they continue to rethink their real estate strategy.”

K7 MEDIA STRENGTHENS INTERNATIONAL OFFERING WITH NEW HIRE

Appointments

Sam Whitear

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09/06/2020

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K7 MEDIA STRENGTHENS INTERNATIONAL OFFERING WITH NEW HIRE

Global media consultancy, K7 Media, has bolstered its international expertise with specialist media consultant, Hannah Barnes joining the business.

Based in Melbourne, Barnes will act as K7 Media’s presence in the region. As Australian Consultant, she will utilise her knowledge of the country’s TV to contribute to K7’s highly sought-after industry resources.

With over 20 years’ industry experience, Barnes has enjoyed an extensive career working across the UK, US, and Australian media markets, including time spent working for Sky and Channel 5 in London.

A highly regarded industry professional, Barnes has held roles in format development, TV strategy and commercial partnerships, for both networks and VOD platforms. Most recently, she was Group General Manager for Lifestyle Channels at Foxtel working across linear, SVOD, BVOD and digital platforms.

The appointment follows significant investment in expanding K7’s global presence. Most recently, with the opening of a permanent base in Singapore and the expansion of its local language offering.

Keri Lewis Brown, Founder and CEO of K7 Media, added: “Hannah brings with her an enviable network of industry contacts across Australia, the UK and North America. We believe having such an accomplished consultant based in Melbourne will help us continue to grow our global presence.”

Barnes added: “I am so pleased to be collaborating with Keri and the team at K7 Media. I have been so impressed with the wealth of experience within the team and look forward to contributing to telling the stories of the great work that is being produced by our industry across Australia and in New Zealand.”

K7 Media offers bespoke research and media consulting services to broadcasters, streaming platforms, distributors and production companies. K7 continues to expand its current range of client services, while maintaining the delivery of highly sought-after media reports.

Greater Manchester firm secures NPIF & CBILS loan to protect its future

Finance

Sam Whitear

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09/06/2020

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Greater Manchester firm secures NPIF & CBILS loan to protect its future

Specialist social impact lender GC Business Finance has provided AWT International with a five-figure Northern Powerhouse Investment Fund (NPIF) loan using backing from the Coronavirus Business Interruption Loan Scheme (CBILS).

Radcliffe-based AWT International manufactures racking trolleys specifically for glass handling equipment. Its products include a range of glass and profile handling equipment ranging from racks, tables and trolleys used for industrial purposes. The business began trading in 2016 and employs eight members of staff.

The firm supplies its products to clients across Europe, and to the largest glass companies in the UK.

Due to the effects of Covid-19, the business was forced to close its factory on the 23rd of March. The firm contacted its local MP James Daly for advice regarding loans during the crisis to support its cash flow and wages. Through GC Business Finance, the firm was able to apply for a CBILS loan, which it received within a week of completing the application.

With the loan, AWT International will be able to support its cash flow and will be able to resume business as usual once lockdown is eased.

Kath Cameron, Director at AWT International, said: “Having seen orders drastically decline since January with businesses uncertain about their future, we had to temporarily close our factory in March. Our local MP, James Daly, recommended getting in contact with GC Business Finance to secure a loan from the Coronavirus Business Interruption Loan Scheme which, without, we would not have been able to continue.

“Matt and the team at GC have been incredibly helpful and so easy to deal with, especially at a time of such uncertainty. The process was simple to follow with their guidance and we received the money within a week of applying. I cannot thank them enough for their help and we now look forward to re-opening the business when safe to do so.”

Matt Robinson, Fund Manager at GC Business Finance, said: “It’s been a pleasure to help Kath and the team at AWT International with this loan, which was vital for the business going forward. At GC Business Finance, we are committed and passionate about supporting North West businesses during this time, and I would encourage more businesses needing our support to get in touch as soon as they can.”

James Daly, Member of Parliament for North Bury said: “It has been an extremely busy couple of months and helping support constituents through this tumultuous time has been a key priority. Businesses such as AWT International were forced to make swift decisions, with little notice, as the global pandemic became apparent and trading restrictions were announced back in March.

I was delighted to help guide constituent, Kath Cameron, Director at AWT International through the process of applying for a loan from Coronavirus Business Interruption Loan Scheme via GC Business Finance. This loan offered her business a lifeline in what we know have been really challenging circumstances.

The Government has provided a wealth of financial support and backing for businesses and I have been on hand to assist my constituents navigate the process through the various schemes of financial support.”

Sue Barnard, Senior Manager at British Business Bank said: “It’s great to see GC Business Finance supporting businesses across the North with loans that are essential in the current situation. We are proud that GC Business Finance has been able to support AWT International with this NPIF & CBILS loan, which is clearly so important to its future growth and potential as a Greater Manchester business serving international clients.”

GCBF is committed to supporting North West-based SMEs, providing NPIF backed CBILS loans to those that have been adversely affected by the coronavirus. GCBF is positioned to lend to businesses that otherwise couldn’t access funding from mainstream lenders with a fast and responsible approach to lending.

The Northern Powerhouse Investment Fund project is supported financially by the European Union using funding from the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF) as part of the European Structural and Investment Funds Growth Programme 2014-2020 and the European Investment Bank.

Manufacturing output starts its long climb back to health as UK begins to emerge from coronavirus lockdown

Manufacturing

Sam Whitear

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09/06/2020

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Manufacturing output starts its long climb back to health as UK begins to emerge from coronavirus lockdown

Manufacturing output across the UK increased significantly in May from its record low level as manufacturers started to emerge from the coronavirus lockdown, according to figures from the latest BDO Business Trends report.

BDO’s Manufacturing Output Index, which provides the most comprehensive snapshot of business output by weighting macroeconomic data from the UK’s main business surveys, jumped by 16.58 points to 69.55 in May, regaining around half of the losses sustained between March and April as manufacturers benefited from the easing of UK lockdown measures.

Despite this jump, the index remains at historically low levels and well short of the 95 level which indicates positive growth overall. BDO’s Services Output Index saw a more modest increase, rising by 9.65 points to 53.53 points in May.

BDO’s forward-looking Optimism Index suggests businesses anticipate a long and difficult path to recovery. The overall index increased by just 1.94 points in May, driven by an increase of 4.32 in the Manufacturing Optimism Index. The figures show the scale of the challenge facing businesses even as they emerge from the worst of the crisis, as they grapple with social distancing restrictions and attention begins to re-focus on Brexit negotiations and international trade relationships.

This difficult path to recovery is also reflected in BDO’s Employment Index. The index sank a further 6.96 points to 89.22 in May, leaving it at a record low. The weak scores across all indices of BDO’s Business Trends report highlight the intensely challenging economic circumstances that the UK finds itself in, and suggests that the Employment Index will not recover for some time.

Commenting on the results, Ed Dwan, Partner and head of BDO LLP in the North West, said: “While the jump in manufacturing output offers a glimmer of hope, early signs point to this being a long road to recovery. The North West continues to be synonymous with manufacturing excellence and we’ve seen huge innovation and resilience from the sector in recent weeks. The UK is experiencing the deepest economic contraction in living memory, and possibly in its history.

“Output remains drastically below where it would be in ordinary times, but the latest readings suggest we have passed the rock bottom of this crisis. I’m optimistic for further gains in the Output Index in June if the government proceeds with plans to gradually open up the economy.”

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