Issue 3 2020 - www.shrewsburybusinesschamber.com Follow us on Twitter: @shrewsbusiness - Shrewsbury Business Chamber
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Issue 3 2020 www.shrewsburybusinesschamber.com Follow us on Twitter: @shrewsbusiness
1
Chairman’s President Peter Bettis calls time on Shrewsbury
Foreword Business Chamber
Welcome to the Autumn Earlier this month, we were
issue of the Business saddened to learn that Peter Bettis
Chamber magazine. would be stepping down as
President of the Business Chamber
The last few months have
continued to be more of ahead of next months AGM.
the unknown as we are all Peter joined the Business Chamber
navigating new ways of
doing things due to Covid- in 2000 under the guidance of
19. This has become a Graham Gallier, who he later
very fine balancing act as succeeded as President following his
the government has death in 2013.
worked to bring more
people back to work, Peter’s legacy as President was his
whilst ensuring that the passion for supporting businesses in
rate of infection doesn’t
begin to extrapolate again. the area, from lobbying the local MP
Currently in parts of the and county council on a range of As a passionate networker with a
UK this figure appears to issues - most recently being the strong belief that our events hinge on
be creeping above 1 which North West Relief Road which business people developing ideas
could lead to lockdown with other business people; 2020
measures in the near potentially will be a huge benefit to
future. the town - to helping businesses has been tough for Peter as Covid-
with their challenges. Peter had a 19 curtailed our events program.
On a positive note,
customer confidence passion for the River Severn and the Whilst we have been able to network
appears to be high in our benefits that it could bring to the in a different way using Zoom, it still
town centre as we are town; rather than being considered lacks the personal touch that
above the national average as an inconvenience or a flood risk, it meeting in person has.
for footfall compared to
similar multifunctional could provide business
There has been a number of events
towns in the country. opportunities. One of our members
over the years that Peter reflected
October will see the Sabrina Boat has run a successful
fondly on: the visit to the Jaguar
conclusion of the furlough business for many years because of
factory on the M54 showed great
scheme which we hope it and there are others who have
has helped our local potential and opportunities for the
done so as well.
businesses to protect as West Midlands in terms of creating
many jobs as possible. jobs; visiting Salop Leisure’s
There is uncertainty what Love2Stay in 2017 was another
happens after this time impressive business that would
especially as there are
industries such as become a leading caravan holiday
theatres, night clubs and destination in the tourism sector. Not
music venues which still forgetting the Flower Show breakfast
remain closed due to meetings which were always well
social distancing being
impossible to achieve. attended.
Lastly, on the 21st October
we will be hosting our Another thing Peter valued was the
AGM on Zoom from 3pm.
We will be joined by Steph role that young people played in
Henson from SixTicks who business. Apprenticeships are hugely
will be talking about her important in giving people a foothold
new business venture on the career ladder. With more
called Tech Time Out. We houses being built around
look forward to seeing you
there. Shrewsbury and Telford and Help to
Buy schemes making mortgages
Val Edwards more accessible to young people, It is going to be strange to not see
there are opportunities to create the Peter at our executive meetings in
Chairman, Shrewsbury work force of tomorrow. the future, but we wish him well and
Business Chamber thank him for 2 decades of service to
Partner, Hatchers Solicitors
our Business Chamber.
2
Shrewsbury Town Council: Road to Recovery
March brought lockdown and a county primary focus has always been to The road closures in the town have
put on hold as focus turned to protect the public and clear signage, been generally well received, giving a
stemming the rising number of closing roads and strong messaging very calm, safe ambience around the
coronavirus outbreaks and reducing the has helped that. town. But that town centre traffic
burden on the NHS. Overnight shops, doesn’t stop and gets diverted
The vibrancy of the town has continued
businesses, leisure facilities and elsewhere placing strains on the
with leisure and hospitality expanding
playgrounds closed, our regular events network. Task force partners are
their offer onto the streets of
were cancelled and for the Council a currently reviewing those arrangements
Shrewsbury. The lovely warm weather
new way of working began. to see how we can reduce impact
has meant that people have been able
elsewhere, but keep that lovely
Whilst many of the county’s employees to have a drink with friends, go out for a
atmosphere.
were furloughed, Town Council staff meal and generally socialize.
continued to work as our parks and Throughout this time Shrewsbury
Footfall figures show we are now back
open spaces became the focus of the businesses have shown great fortitude
to 80% of what it was this time last
public’s daily form of exercise. Some and resilience putting measures in
year with many businesses seeing their
staff worked from home and elected place to protect their staff and
tills fuller than 12 months ago. This
members started to meet virtually to customers and changing their business
compared to many of our competitors
ensure the business of the council models to adapt to a new normality.
seeing footfall 40% down.
continued. We all thought this pandemic would be
But this isn’t a time for complacency.
Throughout May, the golf course, over in a couple of months, then by the
An increase in the rate of infection has
bowling greens and tennis courts time the kids went back to school and
seen the fear of a second wave
started to open up, followed by play then by Christmas. With those seasonal
realized, with many towns and cities
facilities in early July. festivities around the corner, desires to
throughout the country already having
return to normality are not realistic, so
The town centre has seen the greatest had local lockdown measures placed
all the more essential that every single
focus of collaborative effort, with the on them. The key worries are around
one of us continues to play our part.
Town Council, Shropshire Council and what happens when the winter weather
From businesses following guidelines,
the Business Improvement District draws in forcing people inside. Our
supporting the Test & Trace scheme
joining forces to establish the current thoughts are around how we
and adhering to Public heath; to we as
Shrewsbury Recovery Task Force. can maintain Shrewsbury’s Open
members of the public by washing our
outside during winter. Many of us have
Our Bounce Back campaign launched hands, wearing face masks where
visited cities like Prague and Budapest
our recovery with non-food retail slowly appropriate and social distancing when
where outside dining continues with
opening its doors in June. With a strong we are out and out.
heaters and blankets and shelter from
brand and a clear marketing message,
1am. Can we do that in Shrewsbury? Resolve of the task force remains
we have seen visitors gain confidence
in coming back to the town. Our strong, we will recover from this and the
town will be better for it.
3
New marketing strategy for Shrewsbury launched
A new strategy has been launched residents - both local and those investment.
to drive inward investment, from further afield - about how She said: “We are really excited to
support business and help create they view Shrewsbury. be working on this project to
jobs in Shrewsbury. “I would urge everyone to give create a strong marketing strategy
Businesses, residents and their feedback, because a wide to promote Shrewsbury for the
organisations are now being range of views will really help us to benefit of businesses, residents
invited to give their views on the create a collective vision to guide and indeed everyone connected
town’s strengths, to help form the Shrewsbury’s future.” with the town.
basis of how Shrewsbury should Councillor Steve Charmley, “We have a wealth of experience
be promoted regionally, nationally Shropshire Council Cabinet working with organisations like the
and internationally. member for assets, economic Shrewsbury Big Town Plan
Place marketing growth and regeneration, added: Partnership to help towns and
experts, ThinkingPlace, who have “We believe a new, shared place cities maximise their potential.
worked on major commissions to story will help build civic pride and “We are now carrying out research
promote all three of the UK’s cities confidence, help us market and gathering information about
of culture, are leading the project Shrewsbury to attract inward Shrewsbury’s assets, attributes,
to create the new marketing investment and create jobs, and development areas and
strategy, on behalf of the support existing business in opportunities.
Shrewsbury Big Town Plan Shrewsbury. “We want everyone in Shrewsbury
Partnership. “The impact of Covid-19 on our to tell the place’s story and help us
Seb Slater, executive director of town and our economy makes this get the message out what a great
Shrewsbury BID, which along with work more important than ever.” place this is to come to.
Shropshire Council and Councillor Alan Mosley, leader of “Then, using our insight and
Shrewsbury Town Council makes Shrewsbury Town Council, said: experience, along with the valuable
up the Big Town Plan Partnership, “Who best to tell the story about input from businesses,
said the strategy was a key piece Shrewsbury than the people that organisations and residents, we
of work for the town. live and work here? This project is will identify a small number of
He said: “While a range of designed to capture those stories themes that have the opportunity
marketing is already undertaken to show everything that is good to shape Shrewsbury’s future
throughout the year, we are now about the town, promoting strategy, story and ultimate
looking to co-create a clear, Shrewsbury as not only that tourist success.
compelling and consistent place destination, giving confidence in “We will then bring these themes
story and marketing strategy that visitors who want to experience to life by developing a bespoke
we can all unite behind when everything we have to offer, but strategy and plan of activity that is
promoting Shrewsbury and our also establishing one of the leading for Shrewsbury and owned by
organisations beyond our borders. economic centres in the region and Shrewsbury.”
“The team at ThinkingPlace are a place to do business.” To have your say,
already meeting with stakeholders, Sarah Perry, director visit www.shrewsburybigtownplan.
such as business groups, and we at ThinkingPlace, said Shrewsbury org
are launching a public survey to had huge potential to flourish by
harness the knowledge of attracting more visitors and inward
4
Three tips for better consistency in your internal communications
Good communication is vital for people If your team has been dispersed or Get everyone on the same side by
to be able to work well together and for working to a different schedule lately, showing them how it’s done. You’re
a business to succeed. Whilst most we would advise a review of your likely to see better results if you do.
people will know the importance of internal communications to make sure
good communication, life can important updates are not missed. 3. Be well prepared for
sometimes throw a few curveballs, questions
A lack of face-to-face meetings can
making it harder to achieve and When you have important updates to
create barriers for communication and
maintain. share with employees, it’s possible that
people management.
2020 has shown just how true this can questions will arise.
To overcome this, you may want to
be, with the coronavirus pandemic An employee checking their
consider using an online hub to store
applying immense pressure on crucial understanding is a good sign, as it
useful resources and address common
communications. shows they are paying attention. It also
FAQs for your team. For example, The
Earlier in the crisis, important updates HR Dept Toolkit features a handy provides you with an opportunity to
were coming thick and fast from the message board and document library clarify any misinterpretations early on.
government, with advice subject to which can facilitate important internal We are living in uncertain times and you
change within hours. Politicians updates and record keeping. may not have all the answers right
themselves were not immune to away. However, acknowledging
Keeping accurate and accessible
missing an update and could questions as to be confirmed is
records like this is one way to ensure
sometimes be caught off guard during perhaps better than no answer at all.
everyone is getting up-to-date
daily press briefings.
information. It also helps if you ever What you don’t want is for employees
Speed of response is critical, but so is need to refer back to resolve a dispute. to fill in the gaps themselves and start
a clear and consistent message in making assumptions, as this can lead
order to achieve the desired results. 2. Set the right example
to hearsay and take much longer to
Otherwise, inconsistency can lead to Equally as important is demonstrating rectify.
mixed messages, which become your expectations by setting the right
diluted the more they are passed on. example for staff. The same should To avoid this, make sure reporting lines
apply to your leadership team to avoid are clear and that line managers, who
Consistency in communication is a are effectively your spokespeople, are
crucial requirement for any leadership a “do as I say not as I do” situation.
consistent in their communications and
team needing to bring people together Inconsistent actions from management well prepared for questions.
to reach a common goal. can cause mixed messages and look
It’s also a process that should be like favouritism, which in turn can Go further with an HR review
regularly reviewed, to ensure your create an unfair working environment. Are you still using temporary solutions
comms remain as effective as they can that were set up early on in the
Favouritism in the workplace, whether
be. pandemic? It could be time for a
intentional or not, can cause
Improve internal communications in review. Get in touch if you’d like to
resentment amongst other employees.
your business with these three top tips discuss internal comms and HR
Along with affecting productivity and
processes for your business.
1. Keep a single source of potentially damaging company culture,
favouritism carries a risk of For more information about how Níamh
truth
discrimination. can help meet your HR needs, email
Niamh.Kelly@hrdept.co.uk
5
Technology director is telling us to take
time out from technology
Shrewsbury business owner media. Reduced commuting stress “Research has shown that you can
Stephanie Henson launches and more flexibility is a great perk build up a tolerance. This means
techtimeout – a new business but it’s also meant the line you then need more screen time to
venture to change the way we all between our professional and result in the same pleasurable
use technology. personal lives has become blurred. dopamine boost.
As one of the directors at Six Ticks “I love technology. It’s opened up a “Why is this a problem? Most of us
– a Shropshire-based software new way of working and allows for have our phones next to us at all
and website development 24/7 connection. These changes times. With technology easily
company – Stephanie has spent are exciting but at techtimeout we accessible in unlimited amounts,
the majority of her working life realise it’s also possible to have our brains don’t know how to
connected to a phone or laptop. too much of a good thing. moderate our usage. That’s why
Individuals and businesses need it’s important to put tools in place
But, after years of working long the tools to recognise compulsive and set clear boundaries.
days at a computer, moving from behaviours to embrace technology
computer to the TV, and watching in a healthy way, to support “My one piece of advice would be
Netflix whilst mindlessly scrolling wellbeing and productivity. to start taking time away from your
her phone, she realised it was time devices for short periods. Oh and
to research the impact of “What’s healthy for one person, turn off your notifications! Trust
technology overuse and trial ways may not be healthy for another. me, it’s the best step you can take
to become more tech conscious. Through our research we’ve to become less dependent on your
identified a number of ways that devices”.
“I first decided that there was a technology can impact
real need for change back in 2017 communication, mental health and
when I realised that there’s an productivity. It’s quite scary really Join Stephanie who will
addiction in society that none of us that we’re all feeling addicted to be speaking at the
are really talking about. something and we don’t really Business Chamber AGM
know how to regulate our use. on the 21st October about
“Over the last six months it’s
become even clearer as Covid-19 “The ping of a notification and the the impact of technology
has made our need for technology bright colours are all designed to dependence on mental
even stronger – businesses have draw us in. Our phone notifications health and productivity in
modernised overnight with new triggers the release of dopamine.
software and different ways of the workplace.
We crave the feeling that
working. It’s no surprise that our dopamine gives us which in turn
screen time has risen as we’ve leads to more time spent on
become more reliant on technology. We then check our Click here to register
communicating and collaborating phones ‘just in case’ there’s a for our AGM
over WhatsApp, Zoom and social notification there too.
6
New year, new rules 7
Shropshire businesses who their international trading
trade internationally have operations from the start of
been warned there are just the new year.
over 100 days left of the
Brexit transition period and "Evaluating the terms on
that the deadline is fast which your business trades
approaching. with customers and
DY's Tax Director, Francesca suppliers in EU member
Hutcheson, said with the states is fundamental when
Coronavirus pandemic it comes to understanding
dominating the last 6 the import and export
months, it would be easy to procedures you will need to
forget what lies ahead. follow.
"Worryingly, the British
"And even if your company
Chambers of Commerce has
is not directly affected,
reported that fewer than
someone in your supply
40% of its members had goods imported from the EU "Demand for third-party
chain may be - so you will
checked whether they will which were previously not customs intermediaries is
need to identify any potential
need to complete customs required, and depending on already high, so businesses
delays to production or
declarations from 1 January delivery terms, you may are having to navigate the
delivery times as soon as
2021. need to review VAT change on their own.
possible."
"With the end of the registration requirements in
transition period now just 15 EU countries. "But the Government has
Francesca said businesses
weeks away, it is vital that promised they will be
businesses dealing with should address
administrative and "Unfortunately, the new rules engaging more with industry
international customers and will create additional costs over the coming weeks to
compliance procedures too,
suppliers take steps now to which, for many businesses, ensure the UK is well-
as there may be new
ensure they are well will only compound the prepared to trade
customs and VAT obligations
prepared." difficulties caused by internationally under the new
which could take time to
implement. COVID-19. rules. In the meantime, any
Francesca said businesses business that needs advice
should start by considering "You may need to complete should seek expert help as
the commercial aspects of customs declarations for soon as possible."
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Fresh new brand, same great service. 8
Last month Whittingham this far. We will continue to
Riddell undertook a full offer our full range of
re-branding process. excellent services, making
Complete with a new brand every effort to understand
name and stunning new our clients, understand
visual identity... and will now what’s important to them,
be known as WR Partners then helping to achieve
moving forwards. these goals together.
Although the Whittingham As our name suggests, our
Riddell name is seen by thinking is always strategic
many as a hallmark of and supportive. We aspire to
quality service and a sign of work with our clients for the to understand exactly how truly reflects our continued
our strong heritage, the long-term, acting as genuine WR Partners can help all commitment to our clients,
name also came with a Partners by getting the most relevant parties moving our staff and the delivery of
number of communications we can out of people and forwards. excellent service.
and marketing challenges. their businesses. These are exciting times for
If you have any questions
After weighing up our everyone involved with WR
about the new direction, our
options, we knew that the We encourage you to Partners. From our clients,
services or what this means
time was right for change, explore our revamped to our staff and key business
for you, then feel free to get
giving WR Partners the best website where you can fully partners. We hope to
in touch with our team who
platform for success in the experience our new brand experience even more
will be more than happy to
future. We feel a huge sense and improved customer successes together in the
help.
of excitement and optimism journey for yourself. We future.
We hope that you will share
surrounding WR Partners at have strived to make our
present, but we are not offering as straightforward our sense of enthusiasm
about the rebrand, as we WR Partners, protecting
going to forget what got us as possible, making it easy
now have a brand which your future.
Furlough Scheme – HMRC ramps up compliance activity
As the furlough scheme tried their best to get the either made an innocent any professional costs we
continues to wind down claim right but there was error or indeed the claim is incur on their behalf in
towards its final finish date simply too much information correct but HMRC are not in assisting with the enquiry.
of 31 October HMRC have in too short a time for them full possession of the facts. Voluntary disclosures
started to review and identify to be able to taken on board Either way the lack of Even if an employer has not
those furlough claims which and action. specific information means received a letter from HMRC
they believe may contain employers receiving the it may be that they realise
Recognising this, HMRC has
errors. Overall HMRC letter will need to review all they have made errors in
said it will focus on what it
believes between 5% and of their claims to identify any their claims which may have
believes to be fraudulent
10% of grants under the areas where things may resulted in an over claim. If
claims and not on cases
scheme contain mistakes or have gone wrong. this is the case there is a
where the employer has
in a worst case scenario voluntary facility to allow
made an innocent error. In What action should
have been made employers to disclose the
reality however it is likely employers take?
fraudulently. At the extreme error to HMRC and avoid
that many employers who The letter asks the employer
end of the scale HMRC have any potential financial
have acted entirely in good to contact HMRC by phone
already received something penalties. The deadlines for
faith will still receive one of if they believe their claim is
in excess of 8,000 calls to notifying HMRC are the
these enquiry letters. At this in fact correct, or by email if
their furlough latest of either:
stage HMRC have identified they believe they have
whistleblowers’ hotline and 27,000 claims where they identified errors. The • 90 days after the date
there have been arrests consider there may be errors timescale for responding is the employer received
made in at least one case of and they initially writing to short so quick action is the grant they were not
suspected fraud. Clearly employers to enquire into required. Either way, if an entitled to
this is very much the around 11,000 claims. employer receives a letter
exception rather than the • 90 days after the date
enquiring into a claim we
rule but also underlines how What does the letter say? the employer received
would strongly recommend
seriously HMRC is taking The HMRC compliance letter the grant that they were
they take professional
compliance with the furlough says the employer’s claim no longer entitled to
advice before proceeding –
rules. appears to be incorrect keep because your
WR Partners can assist in
because, for example, circumstances changed
As anyone who claimed reviewing any claims to see
ineligible employees were
under the scheme will know, if there are any potential
included, or too much was • 20 October 2020
the guidance on what errors and in advising how to
claimed for some other
employers where able to respond to HMRC. If as an employer you
reason. No details are given
claim evolved rapidly and Depending on the precise receive one of the HMRC
of how much the over claim
continually throughout the nature of the enquiries from letters in respect of your
may be or who the potential
early stages of the scheme. HMRC it may also be that furlough claims, or you think
ineligible employees are.
Inevitably therefore many of those clients who have you may have made errors in
This is clearly very unhelpful
the perceived errors in taken out fee protection your claims, please speak to
to those employers who
claims will have arisen where insurance through WR your usual WR Partners
have tried their best to get
employers have genuinely Partners will be covered for contact as soon as possible
the claim right and have to discuss how we may be
able to assist.
9
Pipekit underlines local commitment as it marks third
year with Shrewsbury Town in the Community
Pipekit has put pen to paper this participants were looked after. be assisting those looking to get
week as it secures a third year Various online and digital back into employment, suffering
as a partner with Shrewsbury resources were created and through loneliness and the
Town in the Community. The launched such as inevitable catch up required in
Shrewsbury based specialist in #Shrewsbury@Home, which local schools. Without our
pressure pipework and drainage allowed anyone to sign up for Friends of the Community
for building and industry values free and access regular partners we simply couldn't
the importance of community resources and the ShrewsFamily continue to make the impact we
and sees local partnerships as initiative, which saw over 200 do.”
integral to the business and its isolation packages delivered to
workforce. vulnerable or shielding 2020 has been a challenging
Shrewsbury Town fans. The year for Pipekit but having
Commenting on the new importance of community brought all staff back from
signing, Martyn Rowlands, M.D partnerships working for the furlough and recording
of Pipekit said: “Re-signing as a community has never been more promising sales over the
Friend of the Community partner apparent. summer months, Martyn and the
for Shrewsbury Town in the team are optimistic that the road
Community was a given for us. It Speaking on Pipekit’s renewal, to recovery is attainable. For any
is such a valuable organisation Jamie Edwards, CEO of pipework and drainage advice or
for our community; doing some Shrewbury Town in the help contact Pipekit direct on:
fantastic and integral work Community said: "We are 01743 860088, via email on:
which often goes under the delighted to extend our Friend of enquiries@pipekit.co.uk or if
radar.” He continues: “At this the Community partnership with local to Shrewsbury, the new
time, as we recover from the Pipekit for another year. It’s trade counter is now open
Covid pandemic, the services great to have the support of (social distance measures in
that Shrewbury Town in the such a community focused place) at the head office on
Community offer will be needed business. Pipekit and Martyn’s Longden Road.
more than ever. So really we saw support extends further than a
it as a duty to continue to monetary donation; they are To find out the latest news on
support the community we both genuine advocates for the work Shrewsbury Town in the
work and live in.” we do across Shropshire.” Community log onto: https://
www.shrewsburytowninthecom
During the last six months the He continues: “Pipekit’s munity.com
charity has had to quickly adapt partnership will help support a
its regular programmes to number of current and
ensure that through Covid all its upcoming projects that will10
Marches LEP Chair Mandy Thorn at our last networking event before lockdown
Marches LEP to stage Business Recovery Week
A week of activity focused on helping highlighting the huge programme of see any part of our society left
businesses in the region recover from work it has undertaken across all the behind in this new world. By ensuring
the devastating impact of the region’s communities in the last 12 our skills provision is aligned to the
coronavirus lockdown is to be staged months and the new projects and needs of business we can help
by The Marches Local Enterprise investments planned for the coming deliver the sorts of high-value jobs
Partnership (LEP). year. which will help drive our economy
into the future.
The LEP – the business-led body “This week is about far more than
responsible for driving economic just how this region and its wonderful “Our Marches Economic Recovery
growth across Herefordshire, businesses recover from Covid,” Mrs Summit on October 15 will bring
Shropshire and Telford & Wrekin – Thorn said. together all the partners we work
says next month’s Business with – business boards, chambers of
Recovery Week will focus on action “It is about how we rebuild our commerce, small business groups,
needed to rebuild the regional business community for the future to farmers’ representatives, skills,
economy as it begins to emerge from ensure it can take full advantage of training and education providers and
the shadow of the virus. the changes the past six months has local authorities – to chart a route
brought. We know that business will which will help drive this region
The Marches Business Recovery never return to the way it was at the towards the prosperity all our
Week will run from October 12 -16 start of this year and we want to do communities deserve.
and examine in detail how the everything in our power to bring
business community can be helped people and groups together to plan “By bringing together all the talents
to thrive in the new post-Covid for life in the new world. in this region in this way we can
world. deliver a united, comprehensive plan
“That is why the launch of our digital for the future and lobby Government
Marches LEP chair Mandy Thorn strategy is so important. We need to most effectively for the resources we
said the week would include the ensure we have the technological need to deliver it.”
launch of a new digital strategy for infrastructure in place which
the region, an extensive focus on supports these changes to our The LEP’s annual report will be
skills and training and a major working habits and allows all our launched at a virtual event on
Economic Recovery Summit bringing companies to thrive in the new digital October 12 with the launch of the
together all the region’s business environment. digital strategy to take place on
groups and partners to map the road October 13. Skills and training will be
ahead for the region. “We will also place a huge emphasis under the spotlight on October 14.
on skills so that everyone has the All events will be held online with
The week would also see the launch resources they need to make the details of how to register and take
of the LEP’s own annual report most of their potential and we do not part to be announced shortly.
Congratulations to Tanners Wines who were
recently acknowledged at the Decanter
Retailer Awards. They were runners up for
the Best National Wine Shop.11
Client Focused
Financial Planning and
Investment Advice
01743 276797
www.crownwealthmanagement.co.uk12
Learning to make better use of technology
We have all become increasingly and more widely connected, possible for employees to work
aware of the importance, necessity businesses must take advantage of from home.
and flexibility of working from home the available technology like
A recent survey showed access to
in recent months – something many computers, VPN connections,
technology varies across the wide
businesses are now looking at as tablets, headsets etc and make it
range of industries. It found, for
the new normal. But to do this work in their favour. There are still
example, that only around 13% of
successfully in the long term we issues with connectivity but it will
employees in the retail industry had
must learn how to make better use improve – making future home
been provided with a portable
of the available technology. working decisions easier to make.
device, like a laptop or smartphone
Many businesses and employees The cost of providing adequate for working from home while that
were thrown into the situation of home working equipment for figure rose to 60% for those
having home working forced upon employees may prove to be working in the information and
them when the country went into prohibitive for some but this cost communication industry.
lockdown, circumstances which must be weighed against savings
It also reports that internet use has
meant trying to ensure jobs could which can be made by staff working
increased to a figure close to 100%
be carried out efficiently with from home.
for nearly everyone under the age of
equipment which in many cases
One of the top priorities for firms 50. The main location for use is,
was simply not up to the task.
moving to home working has to be understandably, still the home but
A learning curve security and we can’t stress enough work, library and mobile use have
the importance of ensuring sensitive all risen significantly.
business information and data is
Much was learnt about working There has been a major swing
kept safe.
during unprecedented times which towards home working, accelerated
will hopefully stand businesses in by the Covid-19 lockdown, which
good stead when it comes to Thinking about the has proved that employees can
furthering home working plans in future operate successfully away from the
the future. But there are issues to work environment.
overcome, including: Communication and information
The means are there to do it
technology has become more
Connectivity efficiently but we must ensure it is
advanced and affordable over time
Cost of providing equipment done safely and securely and that
– which adds further strength to the
Security we embrace a willingness to make
argument for home working, but
Access to relevant technology better use of the ever-improving
there will still be cases, certain
technology.
industry sectors, where the nature
As we become increasingly better of the job means it is simply not13
Star of your own TV show!
With the future of live events Managing Director, Mark Allsop and with bookings now stretching
continuing to look uncertain, says “This exciting new facility through to Christmas with
many businesses are beginning fulfils so many objectives for Morris’s , City of Wolverhampton
to rethink just how to engage Midlands businesses, the Council, Shropshire Council and
with their clients and customers. environment is safe and large the Association for Physical
enough for social distancing, the Education to name a few, this
Award winning creative agency equipment and system is robust looks like it may be the perfect
Yarrington, based in Frankwell, and whilst we can construct a innovative solution for a
are no strangers to live events, studio in most premises, having a businesses to stay in touch with
typically they produce and flexible ready-made studio right clients, teams and to promote
manage in excess of 150 events here means starring in your own their offer.
each year from major TV show becomes very
conferences, exhibitions, awards affordable” If you are interested in taking a
ceremonies and product look at the studio system and
launches. In response to the The studio system has already how it could work for your
current and ongoing situation, played host to the very business, please contact Mark
they have constructed a successful Shropshire Chamber Allsop on 01743 234910 or
complete film studio within their Champion Awards back in July, a mark@yarrington.co.uk
offices, all equipped with the worldwide streamed event for
latest technology for filming and almost 2000 delegates for Neal’s
live streaming TV quality events Yard Remedies organic and
and programmes. wellbeing company last monthSo what has changed? 14
As a business owner, employee or just challenges. Did you know your
as a human being, change affects us all competitive advantage before
in different ways. Some people embrace lockdown? Is it still relevant and will it
it, whilst others try to pretend it isn’t continue to be?
happening! The speed of change also
has an impact. When we look back at a Has your business changed, have you
picture of ourselves from 10 years ago, pivoted or become a hybrid? Have you
we notice how much life has changed, communicated any changes to staff,
but we hardly notice the change as it customers, potential customers? Do
happens because it is so gradual. When you have the resources to maximise this
change happens suddenly it can be new position?
harder to accept and deal with.
Are you still profitable, have costs gone
No touching or hugging, schools closed, up? Has income come down? Do not be
gyms closed, toilet roll shortages, fooled into thinking that keeping your
instructions to stay at home, no sport or prices the same will keep customers
bars, no hairdressers, no flights or loyal. They won’t have the opportunity
travel, facemasks on public transport Your customers have changed. Like you to be loyal if you cease trading.
and in shops, keep your 2 metre they will have been affected by the last
distance, groups of 6 and it goes on, 5 months. Are they still trading? Have Your answers to these questions will
with furlough, Zoom, CBILS, WFH, they changed the way they want to start to tell you what has changed in
Bounce Back Loans too…. meet, trade, pay? Are your Top 10 your business and what further changes
customers the same today as they were you need to make. Whether you’re at
Are we closer to the end or still just at in January and will they still be next the start of your business journey or
the beginning? January? have a lifetime of experience, you need
to ensure that your customers, your
As a business owner of 1 month, 1 year Your suppliers & supply chain will have team and the finances of your business
or 30 years, you will have never seen changed. Can it still provide the service, are in place and relevant because one
anything like this before and it’s far from the credit & the products you need? thing is certain – change is here to stay.
finished. So, what has changed?
Has your competition changed? Who is Shane Stark
What are your aspirations? Are they the left standing, as not everyone will be? Business Doctors Shropshire
same as on January 1st? It’s not wrong Who are the new entrants in your
for them to have changed, in fact it market? I believe there will be a lot of shane.stark@businessdoctors.co.uk
would be strange if they hadn’t. new businesses starting up as job
07970 316 622
losses rise and people want different
HOLIDAYS ABANDONED IN FAVOUR OF STAMP DUTY HOLIDAY
House vendors and hunters are He continues: “It has been a remarkable
exchanging their usual summer holidays turn of events for the residential market,
for a stamp duty holiday says one of easing out of lockdown in June to the
Shropshire’s leading agents. stamp duty bonus in July. However
THE PHONE HASNT STOPPED homeowners are mindful that the clock
RINGING! is ticking and it is unlikely to remain the
same beyond March 2021.
This summer Balfours has more than
doubled the number of properties “Buyers are accepting that they do need
exchanged compared to July 2019 and to meet the asking price to convert an
seen an 80 percent increase in offer into a sale. Indeed we have seen
instructions. The Shropshire agent several properties exceed the asking
performance figures are on a par with price as buyers, particularly from away
Property Mark who says sales for July in and down south, seek to secure their
parts of the UK hit a 13 year high. chosen property and peace of mind that
they have achieved at least one positive
Alistair Hilton, head of sales at Balfours, outcome in a very difficult year.
says that while August is traditionally a
“The phone hasn’t stopped ringing match their wishes so that they too can
quieter month, with many holiday plans
during the past six weeks: Home capitalise from the stamp duty holiday.
changed or abandoned and the
exchequers stamp duty holiday, home owners seeking market appraisals are
owners have chosen instead to facilitate up by 24 percent, viewings by As an independent local estate agent
their home aspirations. The final prospective buyers are up by 65 we pride ourselves on understanding all
ingredient in the residential market is percent. We have a log of buyers who aspects of client needs, from their
this year’s turn of events which has are keen to ensure they are alerted to forever home to the practicalities of
allowed people time to reflect on their homes coming onto the market which Covid viewing protocol. ”
home, work and lifestyle.”15
Adele Ballantyne, Relationship Therapist shares her lockdown story
Hello everyone, I hope that you are I run educational workshops for said, and offer ways of working to
all keeping well and not suffering too legal professionals and also help you to make decisions about
much from pandemic fatigue. workshops for those going through what you want to do, and how you
divorce- helping with co-parenting want to do it.
2020 has so far been a tough year issues and relationship breakdown.
and as we are all emerging into I not only help those wanting to
some kind of ‘normality’, for many of There has been a surge in couple maintain and improve their
us the future is still an uncertain and relationship work recently as people relationship.
scary place. have tried to negotiate living 24/7
with their partners and children. It I spend as much time helping
Working as a relationship therapist certainly has tested all of us who live couples navigate relationship
for over 10 years in my private together. breakdown and create healthy co-
practice on St. John’s Hill, in our parenting partnerships.
lovely town has had its ups and People often say when they meet
downs, but I think this year has been me for their initial consultation, that We are fortunate to have a varied
the most difficult for many reasons. they feel like this is the ‘last resort’, counselling community in
they have tried everything they can Shropshire. Finding the right
We have all been tested above and think of but if therapy doesn’t work therapist for you is important.
beyond what we ever thought we then it’s all over.
could cope with, floods and now My three top tips for finding the right
Covid19. Some have struggled We are gradually beginning to see one:
whilst others have diversified and the benefits of therapy in the U.K 1. What are you looking for? Find
thrived. but generally people have mixed the right kind of practitioner. One to
thoughts about it. one-person centred? Relationship
The world of relationships is often a
complex one. Having worked with I would offer this comparison. work? CBT?
individuals, couples, families and 2. Make sure they are suitably
businesses for many years, I am If you suddenly developed a
toothache you might put up with it qualified.
often amazed by the resilience of
human beings. for a couple of days. If it didn’t settle 3. Ensure they are insured, DBS
you would perhaps make an checked and a member of a
It seems to me that no matter what appointment to see a dentist. professional body.
happens there are glimmers of light Following an examination, the
that inspire us and keep us going. dentist would suggest some (Most professional bodies have their
Heroes emerge and communities treatment. own list of professionals.)
rally together to help those who are
struggling. I think that living in a Going to see a therapist is similar to At Eleda Consultancy you can be
small town helps us to ‘glue’ seeing any other professional. My sure of professional, confidential,
together in times of need and job is to help anyone who has a supportive therapy, whatever your
Shrewsbury has definitely achieved relationship problem whether at relationship need.
this. home or work.
A bulk of the work I do is with family I listen, am non-judgemental and
solicitors and their clients. unbiased. I reflect upon what’s been16
Demand for caravan holiday homes in Mid Wales is booming
Demand for caravan holiday enquiries on the first day of cheap flights and European
homes at parks across Mid Wales reopening. package holidays in recent years.
is booming with many people from The tables could now be turned.
“Pitches that were vacant on many
across the West Midlands,
Mid Wales parks at the start of the “Uncertainty about airlines,
Cheshire and North West England
year are now full and my message restrictions on foreign travel and
opting for staycation holidays.
to anyone thinking about investing the progress of the pandemic in
Salop Leisure, one of the UK’s in a caravan holiday home is to act other countries makes people
leading caravan and motorhome quickly to avoid disappointment,” apprehensive about leaving this
dealerships with sales centres in said Salop Leisure’s managing country.”
Shrewsbury, Machynlleth and director Dylan Roberts.
Mr Roberts explained that parks
Stourport-on-Severn, is reporting
“Since the COVID-19 restrictions and businesses across the region
high demand for holiday homes at
were lifted in Wales, parks across were delighted to welcome back
both inland and coastal Mid Wales
Mid Wales have reported high existing customers who had been
parks.
demand from new customers, with longing to return to their holiday
The company says sales of up to 80% of enquiries coming homes.
caravan holiday homes on some from first time buyers.
“The caravan industry is perfectly
parks are significantly up on the “The feedback we are receiving is placed to cater for families who
same time last year and vacant that customers are planning to value quality time together.
pitches across the region are holiday in Mid Wales for the Caravans holiday homes are such
being snapped up like hotcakes. foreseeable future, not just this an attractive proposition as they
Salop Leisure supplies caravan year. COVID-19 and also Brexit are are able to safely facilitate quality
holiday homes and luxury lodges key considerations when people family holidays.
to more than 100 holiday home are planning their future holidays.
“Even before the pandemic, the
parks across Powys, Ceredigion “Staycationing is definitely a feedback we were getting from
and the Meirionnydd region of strong trend and Mid Wales seems customers was that they were
Gwynedd. to be a very popular destination, looking for better value for money
To highlight the demand for which is great news for the and more flexibility with their
pitches, one coastal park reported region’s tourism industry and all holiday requirements for the
60 pre-booked appointments in associated businesses. future.”
the first week after reopening “Many small businesses across
following the COVID-19 lockdown Mid Wales who rely on tourism
restrictions. An inland Mid Wales have suffered at the hands of
park reported 16 new customer17
Company Culture in a Remote World
The coronavirus pandemic has pandemic progresses and online
caused the world to re-think the meetings become standard,
company workplace. Working technology will advance, and
from home became the normality these interactions will become
for huge numbers of people, and more natural. As a result,
as the world begins to emerge conveying company culture online
from lockdown, working from will also become the new norm.
home for many still remains the
norm. This has resulted in The virtual world has also put
businesses having to rethink their limits on ideas generation. Where
attitudes towards company group discussions and ago. Companies need to adapt
culture. whiteboards would all help to and update their company culture
generate ideas and understanding accordingly to reflect the ever-
The workplace is an essential of company culture, online changing world post-Covid19 and
element towards building meetings often limit the collective make sure that the stories their
company culture, but due to the voice. This is where online employees tell about the business
current virtual world, many of workshops rather than formal are relevant to today’s
these values are becoming lost as meetings should be promoted to marketplace and revisited
the workforce gets used to help encourage creativity. regularly as we adapt.
working remotely. Companies are
now having to adapt and take their Strong brands are built on For more information on
company culture from a physical emotions and stories. The collaboration and many other
interaction to an online story. coronavirus pandemic has given business topics visit:
us all time to think and reflect. As www.dmlovatt.co.uk or contact
We’ve all experienced somewhat companies start to get back to David Lovatt, Creative Director of
difficult online meetings, where work, those values may have David Lovatt Design Studio on
technology decides as to whether altered. Priorities have changed 01743 884972 07584 257050
we appear articulate or not. As the from what they were a few months david@dmlovatt.co.uk
analyse design enhance
With over 25 years’ experience providing creative and innovative
Marketing, Graphic & Web Design services, we not only
understand your business, we deliver imaginative solutions that
consistently meet your requirements.
• Corporate & Brand Identity
• Literature & Point-of-Sale
• Packaging
• Mailshots & Website Design
• Photography
• Advertising
• Marketing & Consultancy
• Project Management
www.dmlovatt.co.uk18
Is it time to throw away your crystal ball?
All businesses are having to Marketing departments and
dramatically adapt to survive in business owners should, but
the Covid-19 world. Changes often do not, look closely at
are hard to implement, manage customer needs, trends, and
and finance. The pace at which habits. Maybe they do the odd
we see behavioural change is exit survey or online poll, but
alarming. Even those with a do they really understand and
crystal ball would struggle to use the information they gather
say what business and public to drive the company strategy
spending habits will be in 12-18 and marketing? How do they and not just pay unhelpful lip
months-time. Like the British ensure the gathering process is service.
weather, what the forecast says fit for purpose? Market
Knowing the now and the ever-
and what the weather does is Research is a specialism, not
changing direction of travel is
often quite different, making just part of a marketing
about the only method we have
forecasts unreliable. department brief.
to evolve our businesses in this
How can businesses evolve to Poorly gathered data, world of speculation and
meet these uncertainties? inexperienced questions and constant change. So, throw out
Measuring sentiment is an mis-reading the facts will the crystal ball and concentrate
excellent way to understand contribute to further issues. It on the now to help understand
the now vs. the past which will is vital that companies gather your next steps.
indicate a direction of travel, quality customer feedback on a
Rosie Beswick – Managing
changes in habits and what regular basis, looking back as
Consultant, Rosie Consulting
factors the customers see as well as forwards. It is important
key at each stage of to ensure that if done in house,
progression. those clients speak truthfully
Helping companies to stand out from the crowd
Think IT, think pc net
Providing specialist
marketing, market research
Competitive Advantage
Facts | Strategic Marketing
Professional, friendly,
and consultancy services
Insights
customer-focused
to businesses across
Specialist Market Research
the UK, US and Europe
Consultancy Call 01743 290588
Projects | Systems | Support
for a FREE audit
www.pcnetsolutions.co.uk
“Assumptions are made
and most assumptions are wrong”
ALBERT EINSTEIN
www.rosieconsulting.com19
Our People, Your Team
Legal services including: Contact us:
• Property & Planning 01743280280
• Disputes Find us:
• Business Law Chapter House North,
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Shrewsbury • Bromyard • Hereford • Ludlow • Oswestry • Telford20
Sabrina Boat Tours in full swing:
As we move towards October and considered one of the most haunted Our ghost tour prices
halloween, Sabrina Boat once regions in the UK. Adult: £10.00
against are embarking on Ghost Children (5+ yrs): £5.00
Cruises down the River Severn. For a unique experience and a fun Concessions: £8
Throughout October, Shrewsbury's natured event for all of the family, Family (2 adults, 2 children): £25.00
Ghost Cruise sets sail down the why not try a ghost tour with a * Over 60’s, carers, students
River Severn showing you our difference
ancient town from a new Don't miss out on our spooktacular
perspective. This was a place which You don't need to stand out in the ghost tours in October
endured centuries of bloody wars, cold to be frightened out of your Because we only run our ghost tours
treachery and cold-blooded murder. wits. Instead we take you on an in October, there are seriously
From the early settler days where atmospheric journey down the River limited spaces available. We urge
marauding Welshmen would attack Severn where your guide will thrill anyone wanting to embark on this
the town leaving nothing but death you with the spooky tales and unique insight into the darker side of
and destruction in their wake, stories of a bygone Shrewsbury. A Shrewsbury to book now to avoid
through to the dark days of the time where mere men would fear disappointment. Some dates have
English civil war and to the walking the streets at night, afraid of already sold out.
lawlessness that followed. You will what dangers loomed beyond the
not be surprised to learn that glow of dimly lit lamps as they flicker
Shrewsbury is to this day in the wind.
Get involved in these fun filled events:
On Friday October 2nd we invite you to On Saturday October 3rd we invite you On Saturday October 17th we invite you
bring your polaroid and dust off your to join us for our Queen tribute night to join us for a story of deception, greed
shell suit and get ready to board with plenty of 70s bangers long into the and secrecy on a wonderful riverboat
Sabrina back to the 90's. night, as well as a fully stocked bar & a cruise. Meet the captain as he takes
one-pot meal you on an evening cruise of mystery on
We will have 90s music long into the the River Severn. Who is responsible
night, as well as a fully stocked bar and Tickets are £15 each, the cruise will for the death of Susan? Is there more to
a one-pot meal depart at 7:30 and last three hours after the guests on the boat than meets the
which point we will tie the boat up and eye.
Tickets are £15 each, the cruise will continue the party till midnight!
depart at 7:30 and last three hours after By piecing together the information, will
which point we will tie the boat up and Return to the 70s for an evening, fancy you be our brightest star on the boat
continue the party till midnight! dress is encouraged! and win the exclusive prize.
fancy dress is encouraged! Visit our website for more information.You can also read
