Unique Central London needs recovery plan - Pages 6-7 COVER STORY - London Chamber of ...
←
→
Page content transcription
If your browser does not render page correctly, please read the page content below
Issue 169 | October 2020 www.londonbusinessmatters.co.uk COV ER S TO RY Unique Central London needs recovery plan Pages 6-7
2 October 2020 Issue 169 (Print) ISSN 1469-5162 (Online) ISSN 2051-9524
Regulars
Events
LCCI webinars –
what’s been on and
what’s coming up
Pages 22-23
Two minute interview
Gary Ruffhead, founder
of GPR PS Limited
Page 28
News from the EU
The latest from Brussels
Page 55
New members
Who has recently joined LCCI?
10 London through the eyes of the homeless: art and entrepreneurship in the city Page 56
Features
EU Exit
Celebrating black Understanding China
business Spotlight on Yintong
October is Black History Betser
Month
London businesses urged to 8 12-13
prepare for end of transition
Literature in the open air London Business
Pages 4-5 Lemn Sissay on Network
Wimbledon Common Launched for the capital’s
LCCI customs declarations scheme community
Page 5 14 15
EU exit hub Page 21
Covid-19 Q&A Infrastructure
New measures and ‘Build, build, build’ for a
Transition and trade deals – Q&A government support functioning economy
Pages 26-27
16-20 32
Business law London Tech Week 2020 Home office
Lyndsey de Mestre on the Mapping the UK tech Getting more out of
impact of Covid-19 sector working from home
35 40 48-49
Front cover: London’s theatreland as it used to be. The centre of the city makes a unique contribution to the UK economy, and indeed to the world’s culture
GRANT ROONEY PREMIUM / Alamy Stock Photo
London Business Matters is edited by Peter Bishop – pbishop@londonchamber.co.uk
Official Publication of Information London Business Matters is PUBLISHING CONTACTS
London Chamber of Commerce Alexa Michael – 020 7203 1866 published on behalf of London
Chamber of Commerce and Advertising sales
33 Queen Street, London EC4R 1AP International business
Industry by Gina Forshaw – 020 7846 4809
Tel: 020 7248 4444 Vanessa Vlotides – 020 7203 1838
gina.forshaw@crosbyassociates.
Fax: 020 7489 0391 Membership sales co.uk
www.londonchamber.co.uk 020 7203 1960
Production/design
CHAMBER CONTACTS Member support
Andy Bellis
Nick Charles – 020 7203 1957
Events Crosby Associates Media Limited andy.bellis@crosbyassociates.co.uk
Victoria Jayne – 020 7203 1875 International trade events Liverpool (Head Office):
Vanessa Vlotides – 020 7203 1838 Burlington House. Crosby Road
Export Documents
Media relations North, Liverpool L22 0PJ
Davor McKinley – 020 7203 1856
Steven Reilly-Hii – 020 7203 1897 Tel: 0330 124 3780
Enterprise Europe Network www.crosbyassociates.co.uk
020 7203 1929 Sponsorship opportunities PEFC Certified
Dean Wade – 020 7556 2382 This product is
from sustainably
managed forests and
controlled sources
PEFC/16-33-254 www.pefc.org
www.londonchamber.co.uk | www.londonbusinessmatters.co.uk
October 2020 News 3
More measures needed for
London to drive UK economy
R “The Prime Minister
esponding to the business sup-
port measures announced at
the end of September by the will know better
Chancellor, LCCI chief executive
Richard Burge commented: “Whilst than most that
businesses welcome government fi-
nancial support during these tough
central London is the
times, they are also looking for gov- economic engine of
ernment to not exacerbate the need
for help due to untargeted or unevi- the UK.”
denced Covid-19 restrictions.
“Many companies have diligently is particularly acute for those in
kept operating during these last six central London – where footfall is
months, or have reopened and tried over 50 per cent lower than nor-
to recover, but their trade and reve- mal.
nue isn’t where it needs to be right “The Prime Minister will know
now. At face value they will welcome better than most that central Lon-
the continuation of wage subsidy. don is the economic engine of the
But they will study the required em- UK. I hope his government will
ployer contribution levels carefully now be looking at further, specific,
in making a decision about staffing measures to help the capital drive
level viability. ferral measures, including the businesses will be acutely aware the UK recovery faster.”
lower rate VAT extension of those that high business rate payments
Ball and chain in hospitality and tourism, will are soon to be a ball and chain See pages 6-7 for the launch of
“Loan repayment and VAT de- be welcomed. But many London on their recovery. This challenge the Central London Alliance
Clarity needed
Photos: Number 10/Flickr.com (CC BY-NC-ND 2.0)
Power Your Business
With IT That Works!
Following last month’s require a certain safe percentage
announcement by the Prime
Minister on increased Covid-
of their staff in the office on
any given day. Equally many Labyrinth
Our four step process is simple and designed to work
around the needs of your business!
19 restrictions LCCI chief hospitality businesses will remain
executive Richard Burge unclear what difference a 10pm
1 2
Meet us to Allow us to propose
commented: “Because we have closure makes, other than being discuss your IT a personalised
been presented with no specific detrimental to their business. requirements support plan
evidence regarding this risk,
“Of course, public health must
many London businesses
come first, but we need to
remain unclear as to why their
be driven by published and Work in
3 4
Agree a timeline to
Covid-secure workplace is now partnership to
explained evidence, not fear or fit the needs of your
considered to be less safe. Or buisness execute the plan
untargeted measures. And we
why allowing flexible commuting
also need to keep in mind the
on a network that currently has
balance of trying to manage one
space is an increased risk.
health crisis but causing another Call us now for a friendly, no-obligation chat to see how we can help.
Detrimental via economic ruin.”
020 3790 7500 Enquiries@LabyrinthIT.com
“Many businesses will feel their See pages 16-20 for LBM’s
economic recovery continues to comprehensive Covid-19 Q&A www.labyrinthIT.com
4 EU Exit October 2020
London businesses urged to
prepare for end of transition
L
ast month, with 100 days left larly concerned that many small
until the end of the post-EU businesses in the capital would be
exit transition period, LCCI thinking that if they didn’t export
joined with London’s local cham- to Europe then it’s someone else’s
bers, deputy mayor Rajesh Agrawal, worry. “This couldn’t be further
London Councils and the City of from the truth. Supply chains, em-
London Corporation to urge busi- ployment law and transport affect
ness across the capital to prepare for any business.
the implications of departure. “London’s Local Chambers ful-
ly supports the LCCI and strongly
Focus recommends that you investigate
In an open letter to all London their EU Exit Hub to find out what
businesses, the point was made you should be focusing on to en-
that focus wasn’t just required for sure your business continues to
companies that trade or do busi- prosper.”
ness in the EU – all businesses need Richard Burge, LCCI chief execu- ject matters need immediate focus,
to assess the impact on their: staff tive said: “Of course Covid-19 is the with an easy reference point to the Unprecedented
employment, business travel, ex- clear and present risk for business, official guidance and advice around Catherine McGuinness, policy
porting, importing, international but we are increasingly worried that those matters. The clock is ticking chair at the City of London Cor-
trade paperwork, costs, logistics, business leaders are not sufficiently ever faster, all London businesses poration, said: “Businesses across
data protection, e-commerce, ac- focused on the fundamental change need to give EU exit their attention, the capital have had to focus their
counting and auditing, public pro- when we finally break with the EU – despite the other challenges.” efforts on dealing with the un-
curement, intellectual property and probably without a trade deal – on precedented challenges posed by
taxation. Firms also need to con- the 31 December. Investigate the Covid-19 pandemic for much
sider impacts on their immediate “It’s why LCCI has created an EU Steve Nelson, chair of London’s of this year. Alongside this critical
supply chain. Exit Hub – to make it clear what sub- Local Chambers, was particu- focus, however, it is vital that firms
www.fin1-compliance.com
Security, Privacy, and Freedom in Computing
visit: https://fin1-compliance.com/secure-tech
FIN1 CCGC LTD is the exclusively appointed reseller for all Purism’s Librem Products in the UK
and Italy. Purism Librem Products (laptops, mobile phones, mini desktop, servers, and key) not
only come with free, private, secure and stable GNU/Linux, but they also change computing for
the better with anti-interdiction firmware available. You can now detect hardware and software
tampering, enjoy the benefits of full disk encryption, and hold exclusively your master keys.
Ethical and secure software and hardware made in the USA
For further information please email info@fin1-compliance.com
October 2020 EU Exit 5
Call to action for business
leaders – the letter in full
Businesses across the capital are grappling with competing
pressures at present, so it is understandable that for many the end
of the EU exit transition period may not be top of mind. But with
only 100 days left until the transition period ends, it is critical that
action is taken from now to start preparing for its impacts.
Changes introduced from 1 January 2021 will affect much more
than our trading relationship with the bloc. Buyers and sellers need
to be ready for the potential impacts of logistical and financial
also prepare for the end of the tran-
sition period and what it means for
London’s Local changes to other businesses across their supply chains. Employers
them. Chambers fully need to ensure employees and recruitment plans are ready for the
UK’s new immigration system. Contracts will need to be checked
“There are a number of resourc-
es available to help businesses un- supports the LCCI in case references to the EU need reviewing. For those businesses
that trade with the EU in goods and services, it is essential that
derstand the potential impacts and and strongly preparations are underway to deal with logistical, administrative,
provide advice. We urge firms to act regulatory and legal changes.
now so that they are ready as pos- recommends that That is why we are urging London business leaders to act now to
sible on day one after the transition
period ends.”
you investigate their ensure that the necessary steps are being taken to assess how your
business and employees will be affected, and start putting plans in
EU Exit Hub place to prepare as best as possible.
Uncertain
The challenges that many businesses face with current capacity,
Cllr. Clare Coghill, executive mem- the problems of planning for an un-
coupled with the uncertainty of what the pandemic may hold for us
ber for Business, Europe and Good certain future”
over the coming months and the pressures of the fast-approaching
Growth at London Councils, said:
festive season, make it all the more important that businesses are
“With the EU exit transition period To help London businesses in their
ready to deal with change. And while some official preparation
ending in 100 days we support the preparations London Chamber details remain to be finalised, it is important to anticipate possible
calls for businesses across the cap- of Commerce and Industry has scenarios and seek the right advice and guidance on getting as ready
ital to prepare for the implications launched an EU Exit Hub as possible.
and are ready to help them ensure www.londonchamber.co.uk/
their resilience, although recognise eu-exit-hub/eu-exit-hub See pages 26-27 for the EU exit Q&A
Employee Assistance
Programme (EAP).
Support for
the mind.
Customs declarations Anytime,
From 1 January 2021 the UK will no longer be in the EU single
market or customs union. This means that goods moving between
the UK and EU – both imports and exports – will be treated
differently from now. Customs declarations will need to be
Anywhere.
completed for UK exports to the EU with immediate effect at the
beginning of the year.
While employees adjust to new Help your people boost their
The requirement for individual customs declarations for imports ways of working, they’re likely mental wellbeing today
from the EU has been put back for six months i.e. until 1 July 2021 to need extra emotional and
though traders will need to keep specific records to then complete a practical support. 0330 127 3495
summary declaration. Duty and VAT as appropriate will also need to With Healthy Minds, they’ll have option 3
be paid or accounted for. access to a range of confidential, bupa.co.uk/eap
24/7 support from our experts. We may record or monitor our calls.
LCCI has joined with ChamberCustoms to provide a Customs This can help them build resilience
and manage worries before they
declaration service to help exporters and importers comply with this
turn into more serious issues.
new requirement for trading with the EU, and indeed with the rest of
the world where such declarations will continue to be needed. The Bupa Employee Assistance is provided by Bupa Occupational Health Limited. Registered in England
and Wales No. 631336. Registered office: 1 Angel Court, London, EC2R 7HJ
service will be available in good time for the 31 December deadline MAY20 CLI 00651
and will be publicised here and on the LCCI website.
6 Your business October 2020
Unique Central London
needs recovery plan 1. To provide specific support
and investment for Central
by Ros Morgan London business namely, for
the hardest-hit sectors, we are
Central London is unique – calling for:
as the nation’s capital city, in • an extension of the business rates
the value it brings to the whole holiday beyond next April – for at
country, and as the leading least another 12 months
global city of talent, culture, • an extension of furlough (or sim-
commerce and infrastructure. ilar) beyond October for at least
I
the next six months
t is also unique in the challenges • help with tax liabilities
it faces and the role it must play • increasing the threshold for hos-
in the recovery of the national pitality grants so that more cen-
economy. When London does well, tral London businesses qualify.
so does the rest of the UK. The cen-
tre of London generates £211 billion 2. To deliver coherent and specific
in GVA, employs 1.9 million peo- Making a case We know Central London better communications and messaging
ple and generates a substantial tax Logic, therefore, dictates that Cen- than anyone else, we know how it is for Central London, we are calling
surplus which funds the delivery of tral London should receive the suffering and we know what it needs for:
public services across the country – unique attention, solutions and in- now and into the future. It is time to • advanced, timely messaging to
crucial to levelling up the regions of vestment it deserves. We must not make ourselves heard. This is this is avoid panic and knee-jerk reac-
the UK. wait for government to come to us. one of the core reasons the Central tions costing people their busi-
London Alliance has been estab- nesses and livelihoods
lished – to unite us in making a case • information on what we can do,
to government with one, unique not what we can’t
Central London voice. • The last few months have seen
We have put together a Manifesto mixed messaging, which created
for Recovery, which sets out our pro- confusion and kept people away.
posals to get Central London back These are challenging times, of
firing on all cylinders. We have three course but government can and
CREST CONNECTION UK LIMITED asks of government. should do better.
T/A CREST SHIPPING SERVICES
WE OFFER Heart of the city
• Sea Freight Heart of London Business Alliance
• Air Freight represents 500 businesses and 100
property owners in the Piccadilly, St
• Road Freight (All Over Europe)
James’s, Leicester Square, Piccadilly
• International Courier Service Circus and St Martin’s areas.
• Import and Export Customs
As a Business Improvement District (BID), they provide a robust
Clearance Service
voice on behalf of the business community, ensuring issues affecting
• International Trade Consultancy them are placed onto the wider agenda and in partnership with
• Export Documentation others, act as a catalyst for positive change.
Commercial wellbeing
The team at Crest have over three decades of experience in
Heart of London’s purpose is to support the cultural and commercial
International Trade & Worldwide Transportation. wellbeing of the businesses and organisations they represent. In
2020, the BID secured another five-year mandate with 96 per cent
Established since 2006, we are one of the UK's most reliable,
of businesses voting in support and making Heart of London the
efficient and professional International Freight and Shipping
first BID to achieve four simultaneous ballot wins.
Companies.
Having provided leadership and direction for businesses and
property owners for almost 20 years, as the COVID-19 pandemic
Tel: +44 (0) 1923 251 444 | +44 (0) 1923 431 715 brings a new set of challenges, Heart of London is solely focused on
Email: info@ccukgroup.com driving the reopening and recovery of the West End.
crestconnection.com www.heartoflondonbid.london
October 2020 Your business 7
SPONSORED COLUMN
The rise of communications
for resilient business
of, and affirmation of the positive
value of communication in business
has had consequences for the
mental health of those individuals
who are critical to delivering it.
A survey by the CIPR’s Health
Group explored the impact of
Rachel Royall Chart.PR FCIPR the coronavirus pandemic on
Director, Healthcare, Wellbeing
communications professionals. It
and Life Sciences at markettiers
Chair of CIPR Health found that over half of respondents
reported their organisation placed
I
n recent months communication, ‘a lot’ of value on communications
both the art and the practice, during the pandemic. However,
has been propelled front and 82% of respondents answered
centre by business, government, ‘yes’ to feeling a mental health
and society, putting pressure on impact. The collision of life and
the professionals who provide work, the increase in volume
communication advice and of communication needed,
3. To give London the public
transport and access it deserves.
One of Central services. Faced with a global the diversification of channels,
We cannot lurch from crisis to crisis London’s greatest pandemic we have all hungered
for factual, trusted information
additional hours, health and safety
fears, employment fears, home-
on TfL funding. We are calling for
government and City Hall to work draws for tourists is from trusted sources. Businesses schooling, anxiety over loved ones
its culture and
together to agree a five-year settle- and the public sector have whose treatments may have been
ment that puts sustainability at its grappled with how to disseminate delayed - and all other eventualities
centre. heritage. But it is information effectively and at - have understandably had an
scale, with an almost apocalyptic impact.
We are calling for:
• removal of the extended conges-
collapsing before our ramping up of digital channels.
tion charge very eyes Business survival has depended on
the ability of companies to continue
Whilst these anxieties are not
unique to the communication
• all the levers pushed to get Cross-
rail open on time, making sure to communicate effectively and industry, world-class
that business does not bear the Come back stronger empathetically with customers and communication is critical to
burden of it going over budget We have stated our engagement employees alike. post-pandemic business recovery.
• incentives for green travel. with government. But we need your There is no doubt that the best
And, when it is safe to do so we help! The rise and importance of public businesses will be investing in
want: The full manifesto is on the Cen- relations has been felt across all communication channels and
• incentives to nudge people back tral London website and needs to sectors. In broadcast, for example, resource. However, they also
onto public transport. We had be read, shared and quoted to move a Havas Media Group survey need to put in place the right
Eat Out to Help Out. Why not the campaign on and get the asks found during lockdown 64% of mental health support for teams
Ride Out to Help Out? from government we need. Cen- people were watching more live to build resilience around the
• flexible ticketing that mirrors the tral London has so much to offer. TV than before the pandemic and people who lead and deliver the
new commuter. But for it to be there for us in the some commercial radio stations communication strategy and
good times, we need to be there for have seen daily listenership rise process for organisations.
4. To help and allow London to be it in the bad. Let’s work together by almost 50%. The public turned
globally competitive. to make sure we come back even to traditional and trusted forms Great organisations that do great
Tourism is critical to our success. To stronger. of media like the BBC, rather communication value and invest
allow us to compete at a global level than social media. For internal in their people as advocates for
we are calling for: Ros Morgan is chief executive
communications businesses their business and their brands. We
• comparable marketing budgets to of the Heart of London Business
ramped up daily briefings, online must understand the impact of
our competitor cities Alliance. This is an edited version
content, audio and video content, the last few months on individuals’
• tax free shopping of her address at last month’s
live streamed events, launched mental health in order to put in
• extended Sunday trading launch of the Central London
podcasts and other channels place expert support where it’s
• Visa reforms for global visitors. Alliance (CLA) whose objective
to effectively engage with their needed to build the resilience of
is to support a sustainable,
employees and customers. communications teams to lead and
One of Central London’s greatest economic recovery of London’s
support business recovery.
draws for tourists is its culture and business, hospitality, cultural,
But what about the people behind
heritage. But it is collapsing before tourism, and retail sectors, helping
the communication? The challenge For more information visit
our very eyes and before the affects both employers and workers to is that this rise in the importance www.cipr.co.uk
become irreversible it needs help thrive through the epidemic. CLA
now. So we are calling for specific was set up by Tony Matharu,
support for the sector including: founder and chairman of Integrity
• tax incentives for cultural pro- International Group, and is
ductions supported by LCCI.
• relief for suppliers. centrallondonalliance.com
8 Your business October 2020
Celebrating
SPONSORED COLUMN
A Regulator
with Teeth! black business
October is Black and Tottenham riots and now em-
Jon Sharp, Consultant Solicitor, History Month writes braces black people in general rather
Silver Shemmings Ash Justine Pernice. than specific cultures. Among a wide
T
range of activities to commemorate
he idea of earmarking a black history, enterprise is not for-
month for celebrating the gotten.
contributions, cultures and This month in London events
The commonly held view claims for business interruption achievements of people of African include Black Business Networking
is that insurers very often caused by COVID19 and the and Caribbean origin started in the Expo and the UK Black Business
cause difficulties whenever government action consequent US in the 1920s. Show as well as lectures on inclu-
a claim is made. Not, to be upon it, should be paid. They It was adopted by the UK in the sivity and empowerment in work-
fair, always without cause – have also asked the court to 1980s following London’s Brixton ing life.
insurance policies are policies give guidance on quantum – so
of indemnity, designed to put how much should be paid.
Inspirational business
insureds back into the position
they were before the incident – The Judgement is due
leaders
not better, not worse. Further, tomorrow – 15th September
the policy wording is the – and there will be Appeals
contract between insureds and without any doubt. However,
insurers – regrettably, many of what is refreshing about the Madam C J Walker (1867-1919)
us do not read this carefully to FCA’s action is that it has been Madam Walker was the first female millionaire,
make sure the policy covers the entirely transparent – all the an astonishing feat in the early 1900s. She
risks that we want it to cover. pleadings, and full transcripts accumulated her wealth by developing and
of the hearing are on the FCA’s marketing a line of cosmetic and haircare
However, the recent almost website for all to see. Rightly, products for black women, achieved while
enduring segregation and The Great Migration.
blanket denial by insurers of as some 390,000-00 policy
business interruption cover holders are affected, and Personal hygiene was challenging at the
caused by COVID19 brought considerable hardship has been beginning of the 20th century and problems with hair and skin were
this issue to the attention caused to businesses, many of common. Enter Madam Walker and her products. Her success
of the Financial Conduct whom paid extra for business enabled her to buy a house next door to the vastly wealthy banker
Authority – the FCA regulates interruption cover. John D Rockefeller. Her story is told on Netflix’s Self Made and her
the financial sector, and unlike products can still be brought in Sephora stores.
many regulators in this country, Now I am not brave enough to John H. Johnson (1918-2005)
has real teeth. It can, and predict the decision. But the The founder of Johnson Publishing, renowned
does, impose massive fines, FCA’s actions have ensured for its Ebony and Jet magazines, was, in 1982,
can order banks and insurers that, if nothing else, affected the first African-American to appear on the
to change their policies and policy holders who cannot Forbes 400. Previously, in 1951, he had a
procedures, and can even bring afford to take insurers to court, similar accolade when selected as Young Man
it’s own Proceeds of Crime have had their day in court in a of the Year by the United States Chamber of
Act applications without the tough battle between regulator Commerce.
need to involve the Police. This and regulated.
Johnson Publishing diversified into
Regulator abhors uncertainty
book publishing, radio broadcasting, insurance and cosmetics
in any of its regulated markets, Jon Sharp is a Consultant manufacturing, including Fashion Fair Cosmetics, once the largest
and it’s overriding mantra is Solicitor at Silver Shemmings black-owned cosmetics company in the world. In 1996, Johnson
that customers must be treated Ash, has practiced in the was awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom, the highest civilian
fairly. City for nearly 30 years with honour in the USA.
a wealth of experience in
So, the FCA took insurers to the insurance industry & a Levi Roots (1958 - )
court. It did so under an agreed number of reported cases that Born Keith Valentine Graham in Jamaica,
framework with 7 insurers demonstrate his abilities in the Levi Roots learnt from his grandma how to
combine the spices of Jamaica to make sauces.
regarding some 74 policies. areas of dispute resolution,
In the UK, he started by producing sauces in
Whilst the framework for insurance, marine, aviation,
his kitchen with his children to sell from his
bringing the matter to court general commercial matters
backpack. Equally well known as a reggae artist
was agreed, that’s all that was. and social media. Jonathan
he performed at the Notting Hill Carnival and
The FCA have firmly stood in regularly presents seminars and served food from his popular ‘Rast’raunt’.
the shoes of policy holders and lectures to the public, insurers,
argued vociferously that the banks and other lawyers In 2007 he appeared on Dragon’s Den, the TV show for
entrepreneurs,where Peter Jones and Richard Farleigh invested
£50,000. Selling his sauces through Sainsbury’s, his portfolio
includes best-selling cookery books, restaurants, and celebrity
appearances, as well as music. Brixton-based Roots is reportedly
jonsharp@silverllp.com
worth £45 million.
Tel: 0207 167 6602
Mob: 07826 736 134 Profiles supplied by Chellsie Brooks, Gwen Laryea, and Keith Bedford
www.silverllp.com
Is something
bugging you
about your
company’s
security?
Do you feel your business’ security has
been compromised, or is it just something
you want to prevent from happening...
International Procurement Services (IPS) recognizes the importance
of keeping your discussions and intellectual property as secure as
possible. In today’s world, wherever there are large sums of money,
and proprietary information, there will always be someone interested
in gaining access to it, by fair means or foul! It takes just one well
placed electronic listening device (or bug) to jeopardise your critical or
confidential information, perhaps to a competitor or leaked to the press.
Gerry Hall, of IPS says, “10 years ago, eavesdropping was a specialist
and expensive business, however with the advent of GSM technology
and miniaturization of electronics, listening devices have become
small and inexpensive requiring specialised equipment
and search teams to detect”
Based in Central London and established in 1989, IPS’s core
business is the provision of Technical Surveillance Counter
Measures (TSCM) equipment to government and
corporate clients together with sweep services.
Call +44 20 7258 3771 (24/7)
For further information on our services both UK and International, please contact: Gerry Hall, Managing Director
IPS
THE HALLMARK OF SECURITY
INTERNATIONAL PROCUREMENT SERVICES (OVERSEAS) LTD, 118 PICCADILLY, LONDON W1J 7NW
E: sales@intpro.com T: +44 (0)20 7258 3771 F: +44 (0)20 7569 6767 www.intpro.com
10 Your business October 2020
London through the
eyes of the homeless
Seven years of handing out 100
cameras to people who have
experienced homelessness
have resulted in a beautiful
fundraising calendar being
launched in London last month
T
he 2021 MyLondon calendar,
and a sister publication the
2021 MyWorld calendar, will
support local homeless initiatives,
but it will employ dozens of pho-
tographers whose photographs and
narratives feature in them.
Inspired
Run by a small London social
enterprise called Cafe Art, (the first
project was framing and hanging
art by homeless people in cafes,
and giving the earnings from sales
to the artists), their MyLondon cal-
endar has inspired similar projects
in many other cities. The 2021 My-
World calendar will be a joint effort
and raise money for those projects
in Budapest, New Orleans, London,
Sao Paulo, Sydney and Toronto.
The calendars, cards and photo-
graphs will be sold exclusively online this year. Paul Ryan (left), co-founder from photographers affected by don taken by people who are or have
of Cafe Art says: “Because of the risk homelessness participating in pho- been homeless.
of a second spike in Covid-19 we can’t tography contests using Fujifilm
risk the health of the regular vendors, Quicksnap one-time-use film cam- The calendars sell for £10.99
but we are giving them codes to give eras. Since the first contest in Lon- each, the greeting cards for
to their regular customers for the don in 2013, more than 700 partici- £9.99 for a set of four and the
online shop. If the customers use the pants have taken photographs of the photograph enlargements are
code they will give the usual 50 per city. The goals of the project are to £19.99 each. All proceeds will go
cent commission to the vendor.” empower people through art, pho- to the photographers affected
tography and entrepreneurship. It is by homelessness and Covid-19
Art and not a calendar of what homelessness support services.
entrepreneurship looks like but one of images of what www.myworldphotographers.
Images in the calendar come the photographers love about Lon- orgOctober 2020 International 11
Lord Mayor pays virtual
visit to Queensland
Alderman William Russell
talked green finance and
This was a
fintech partnerships when he particularly great
paid his first – albeit virtual –
visit to Queensland earlier this opportunity to
summer. strengthen
T
he Lord Mayor’s visit was part collaboration in
of a wider tour to enhance en-
gagement between the City of
green finance
London and Australia, despite inter- and fintech
national travel disruptions caused
by Covid-19. His Queensland agen- investment opportunities across
da included a webinar hosted by green finance, pension funds, and
the Australian British Chamber of the institutional investment, envi-
Commerce and the City of London ronmental, fintech, and social and
Corporation, and a meeting with in last month’s LBM. “This was a Queensland Agent-General and governance sectors.”
representatives from major super- particularly great opportunity to Trade and Investment Commis-
annuation firm QSuper. strengthen collaboration in green sioner for Europe Linda Alpelt said www.tiq.qld.gov.au
Alderman Russell said he rel- finance and fintech – areas of our that her office was engaged with
ished the opportunity to connect industry which will be key catalysts the City of London Corporation See page 52 for virtual tour of
with Queensland – the Austral- for post-pandemic global econom- on a regular and increasing basis Mansion House as part of Lord
ian east coast state was featured ic growth.” “to unlock high-value trade and Mayor’s charitable activities
CHELSEA
CENTRE
PART OF
MORLEY COLLEGE LONDON
COVID-19 is changing the
world: let Morley help you
discover YOUR new normal
through learning. Whether
you’re looking to progress or
change your career, hone your
digital skills or invest in your
wellbeing, our courses will help
you Upskill, Reskill and Enjoy
learning this Autumn.
www.morleycollege.ac.uk/
upskill-reskill-enjoy
LCCI members are eligible for discounts on courses at Morley.12 International October 2020
Understanding China –
spotlight on Yintong Betser
Regular readers
of this magazine
will know
that Yintong
Betser has been a frequent
contributor on China and
Chinese affairs since 2009
so it feels only right to turn
the spotlight for once on this
creative and entrepreneurial
lady writes Theresa Booth
I
have known Yintong for over 20
years, since she first became a
member of the Chopsticks Club,
and must have discussed with her
almost every subject relating to Chi-
na. But it is only by doing this inter-
view that I have properly discovered
the extent of her pioneering and cre-
ative career.
Yintong was born in Beijing and
moved with her British husband to
London in 1993 where she worked
for a travel company followed by
three years with Tottenham Hot-
spur Football Club as a marketing 18 Your business April 2019 36 Your business March 2020
executive. Whilst working at the
club, she met her first client and Yintong talks with... Yintong talks with...
became the company’s Chinese Kevin Sui, chief executive of China Hour
Patrik Schumacher, principal of Zaha Hadid Architects
consultant. It was in this role that
Z
British government’s ambition to
have 5,000 British pupils speaking
Kevin and his team aha Hadid Architects (ZHA) with permanent local offices based
she realised the need for bilingual, fluent Chinese by 2020; and the rise
to third of Chinese in the table of
most studied languages at A-level,
cover the whole
process, from the
was founded in 1980 by the
legendary Iraqi-British ar-
chitect Zaha Hadid, crowned “the
in Beijing and Hong Kong.
Thrilling
Mandarin and English, profession- overtaking German. Kevin explains:
“The general programmes relating
to China were produced mostly with
selection of a
programme, to
queen of the curve” by The Guardian
for her distinctive style representing
“liberated architectural geometry,
Unlike in Europe, several build-
ings go up together, a community is
built, whole districts are created on a
als to help UK businesses thrive in the business and diplomatic audi-
ence in mind. These programmes
had a great deal of depth but they
importing, editing,
promotion and sales.
giving it a whole new expressive
identity”. Sadly, Zaha passed away
four years ago, and Patrik Schu-
big scale at the same time – a thrilling
experience and a great challenge for
any architect. UK government sup-
China. Consequently she set up
were not in sufficient quantity and macher took over, championing the port has been welcome and helped
coverage to be informative enough initial goal was to achieve 300,000 company’s cutting-edge, beautiful secure ZHA’s recently completed
to the general public, so China Hour per month in the first year but in the architecture throughout the world. Beijing Daxing International Air-
her own enterprise, ACTIVE An-
was born. first month it had already reached Schumacher has degrees in math- port, the largest airport in the world.
“It is in English with the core over 600,000 and gathered a viewing ematics and philosophy, as well as This was necessary as the French and
target audience being the British of 9-10 million in 2018, with only a PhD in architecture, and joined American competitors had mobilized
glo Chinese Communications, a
middle-class population. To achieve four hours of daily broadcasting. the firm when it was in its infancy. support from their governments. Ir-
that, we don’t just buy programmes To achieve this result, Kevin and He was not, he tells me, driven by respective of the diplomatic efforts,
and put them on our channel. In- his team cover the whole process, financial gain but by ideas and the ultimately the best scheme won.
business and PR consultancy help-
stead, we repackage them and dub from the selection of a programme, company vision. “I believed in her What advice could Schumacher
the narratives in English.” As an ex- to importing, editing, promotion and the firm.” “The company had matured in things with their hands, in profes- share with other Western businesses
ample he gave a programme called and sales. With the time difference Zaha Hadid’s creativity and tre- the couple of years before her sud- sions such as tailoring. You hardly working with China? “Hiring capable
ing UK and Chinese businesses
Tea – the story of a leaf (below). The Kevin stays late at night to ensure mendous drive was tempered by an den death. Especially after the pre- saw any Western faces,” he recalls. Chinese colleagues and gathering a
all is ready for his Chinese coun- intense and occasionally abrasive vious global financial crisis, we had reliable and trusted circle of support
terpart to proceed first thing in character. Schumacher was able purposely started to build a sound Fabulous buildings is crucial. We regularly give lectures
develop in each other’s country.
the morning, then he gets up early to survive and indeed thrive. With infrastructure headed by a solid Soon after they met the celebrat- and share our knowledge in China.
to catch up with his colleagues in only four in the company, everyone management team. For example, ed entrepreneur couple Pan Shiyi Basically, we make ourselves available,
China before they go home. This ef- had to pull their weight and cover all we formed a Zaha Cluster, a circle of and Zhang Xin of the Soho Chi- develop friendships and build trust. I
ficiency has benefited Kevin greatly ground to keep the business alive. the 40 best design brains within the na Group in Beijing. Their varied still need to be involved in PR at the
S
as he now can enjoy a successful company, responsible for much of backgrounds and cultures – Pan most senior level but we rely on our
Complementary skills
Collaboration
ongyan Sui – known as Kevin major incidents – the 2004 general work/life balance, a quality time to the front-end design work going out. was originally from Hong Kong and local staff to maintain the good rela-
– has quite a story to tell. En- election in Taiwan, 9/11, the death look after his daughter and be there During their business partner- I also have the support of the board brought up in Britain – and strong tionship we have with related partners
couraged by his parents to of the Pope, the tragedy of the Mal- for his family. ship of almost 30 years, Schumach- of directors, financial professionals desire to create fabulous buildings on a daily basis on the ground.”
become a doctor, he ended up be- colm Bay Chinese immigrants … we original programme was superb but er and Hadid worked through thick and others on hand to help, so I am in China combined to make them a
ing the founder of a Sky TV mini covered them all.” These experiences achieved surprisingly low viewing Change and thin, giving lectures together not shouldering everything alone.” potent and multiple award-winning Vibrant
In 2005 she completed a master’s de- channel ‘China Hour’ based in the
UK, via a career path that took in
and learning from other colleagues
provided Kevin with the necessary
figures. Kevin learnt from this expe-
rience, “The original audience were
Kevin’s parents had high hopes
for him to become a respected doc-
and bidding for projects all over the
world from Azerbaijan to Mexico,
About 50 per cent of ZHA’s rev-
enue is generated from projects in
force in architecture in the decades
to come.
Riding on the wave of the global
architectural boom, ZHA has grown
working when an agricultural sci- tools and an awareness of viewing the Chinese people in China who tor to save lives and do good. In- from the Middle East to China. Their China and I ask how the practice Despite the challenges of lengthy in the last two decades with aston-
gree in marketing to ensure she was ence student in a North Chinese
cornfield, studying economics in
Australia, and becoming a BBC
the world objectively to work in the
media. Together they formed a solid
foundation for his career progres-
were already familiar with the Chi-
nese context of tea and tea culture.
The British audience has a different
stead, his career went off on a com-
pletely different track. What would
they make of it now if they were
projects ranged from an opera house
to retail, from culture centres to
mega cities. At the point of Hadid’s
got involved with that country in
the first place. I learned that Hadid
and Schumacher had popped over
decision-making processes, fast de-
livery expectations, Schumacher
enjoys working in China, finding its
ishing speed. The number of per-
manent staff has increased from 40
to 400, and it has 950 projects in 44
speaking the same language as many broadcaster in London.
In 1990s China, young profes-
sionals who could pass stringent
sion in broadcasting. built-in understanding and mind-
set. Our programme would need to
connect with their knowledge with a
alive? “I still have a long way to go to
change the world for the better but I
feel I am on track in contributing to
untimely death in 2016, ZHA had
36 projects on-site in 21 countries.
They were undoubtedly a tight team
to southern China from Hong Kong
when on a teaching assignment
there in the late 90s. “Shenzhen
political and financial stability reas-
suring. Having worked there since
launching its first project of Guang-
countries.
With only three projects built in
England though, I hope that Zaha
of her British clients and be better English exams were encouraged by
the government to study overseas.
A correspondent with the prestig- His natural curiosity and love
shared empathy.
“So, we invited the Lonely Planet’s
China columnist to add an opening
the promotion of the understanding
between different cultures and peo-
ple; the direction hasn’t changed. I
with complementary skills – Hadid’s
genius of innovation and creativity;
Schumacher, magician-like, weav-
was a small fishing village at the
time, it looked poor, with no shops,
but there were lots of people making
zhou Opera House, 2003 – 2010,
ZHA has now developed a compre-
hensive project management system
Hadid Architects will bring more of
its modern, innovative buildings to
these shores. After all, London, in
able to support her Chinese clients. ious Economic Daily, Kevin accept-
ed the challenge and subsequently
went to Australia. While consider-
of exploration dictated that he was
ready to move on. A spell with
China Daily reinforced his under-
talk filmed at familiar locations such
as Twinings and Fortnum & Mason
before the main body of the pro-
know they would be happy to see I
am doing something I enjoy. And
that, I certainly do.”
ing ideas and creativity into finished
products through systematic think-
ing, backed up by theory.
Schumacher’s opinion, is the most ex-
citing city in the world with a vibrant
and versatile architectural environ-
As ACTIVE grew, organising events ing whether to continue his studies
there with a PhD, he successfully
answered a BBC World Service call
standing of the strong demand for
Chinese programming in the West,
with far too few such programmes
gramme. This led the audience to
the programme at their own pace.
The revised version proved to be
www.chnpec.com/en Inspiration
He misses her as a friend of
ment, and where he and Zaha Hadid
developed their craft and prepared
themselves for ZHA’s global success.
and accompanying British compa- for Chinese-speaking staff, thus be-
ginning an 11-year association.
to satisfy western appetites. Putting
his newly-found business realisation
into practice along with his compre-
successful, with one episode of the
six parts series achieved 380,000
viewings, compared with BBC News
Yintong Betser is the author
of a series of books on doing
course but also “her inspiration,
her drive to succeed and dedication
to architecture.” Despite the huge
Yintong Betser is managing
director of ACTIVE Anglo Chinese
nies on missions to China, she saw Learning
Kevin recounts his experience at
the ‘Beeb’ with fond memories and
hensive skills and knowledge, China
Hour was born in November 2016.
at 10’s 400,000 viewing rating in the
same month - a resounding result.
business in China and the
UK and managing director
of ACTIVE Anglo Chinese
loss, the company has maintained
its success, continuing to win bids
with an enviable 30 per cent success
Communications connecting
business cross culture with PR and
marketing. She has published a
Depth Success
the need for handy simple business gratitude. “I was involved with al- Communications ratio. How did he manage to con- series of books on doing business
most every aspect of the broadcast- The interest in China within Brit- Audience rating is obviously key tinue with Hadid’s legacy with such in China.
www.activeukchina.com
ing world and witnessed the world’s ish society is there for all to see – the to success in broadcasting. Kevin’s apparent ease? www.activeukchina.com
guidebooks. The result was Active
Business Travel – Great Britain (in
Chinese) and Active Business Travel Celebrated ture to the UK for its ability to build with the international market, par-
– China (in English), both of which Milestones during her twenty plus better country-to-country relations ticularly in the culture sector.
have since been reprinted as a result year journey running her own con- and people-to-people understand- Her curated events have includ-
of a successful collaboration with sultancy have included a pioneer- ing. This photography exhibition ed a high-profile fashion forum for
London Chamber of Commerce and ing photographic exhibition called gave rise to a new business shift for the Shanghai Fashion Week, the
Industry and China Telecom Eu- Ebb & Flow at the Saatchi Gallery Yintong, from previously support- Guanxi in the Western Context
rope. On republication, both guides in 2014, where Lord Heseltine was ing mostly British companies do- book launch for Professor Barbara
were endorsed by the then Trade a keynote speaker. He praised the ing business in China, she started Wang as well as her popular an-
Minister, Lord Stephen Green. bringing of the best of Chinese cul- helping Chinese companies connect nual Chinese New Year receptionsInternational October 2020 13
SPONSORED COLUMN
Pensions are
where musical
changing (again!)
talents and By Görkem Gökyiğit, Chartered
prominent Financial Planner at Lubbock Fine
speakers from Wealth Management
the Anglo Chi-
nese community are
showcased. As a sideline
to support her cross culture PR
events, Yintong has commissioned With her sense of From 2028, the age at which What if you would still like
a hugely popular range of yin-
yang and national flags, designed creativity and individuals can access their to retire at 55?
pension is set to rise from 55
cufflinks and lapel badges. These entrepreneurial flair, to 57.
You still can! It is worth
considering adding money into
are worn with pride by countless
business executives wanting to dis- she has just The Government has confirmed other tax wrappers, such as
play their UK-China credentials,
including many on China Britain
launched the Global its intention to increase the age Individual Savings Accounts (ISAs)
and General Investment Accounts.
Business Council trade missions. SinoPhoto Awards at which people can access their
These are accessible from any
private pensions. The aim is to set
age and can be part of your
Creativity the minimum retirement age to
‘retirement fund’.
Wishing to develop her new interest homogenized. Whatever one thinks 10 years below the state pension
in photography with business pro- of Chinese politics today, its culture age. This could help reflect trends What 7 things should
jects, Yintong has wasted no time is undisputedly rich, fascinating and
in longevity, encourage individuals you ask yourself about
during Covid-19 lockdown to con- global.
to remain in work longer, and help retirement?
solidate her photographic knowledge. By extending the award to ex-
She has completed online photogra- amples of China culture outside to ensure that pension savings are It is important that every
phy courses with New York’s MoMA mainland China, the photographs used for later life. individual considers the following
and Beijing’s Central Fine Art Acad- will reveal how Chinese culture has questions:
emy as well as building up an audi- been interpreted by not only the What does this mean for
1. What does comfortable
ence through her photography blogs worldwide Chinese diaspora, (for you?
retirement look like?
via a Chinese social medial platform which there are around 45 million
The full details are pending. 2. Am I making enough
WeChat. With her sense of creativi- first generation Chinese living out-
ty and entrepreneurial flare, she has side mainland China), but also sec- However, depending on your age, provisions?
just launched the Global SinoPhoto ond and third generation Chinese, you might be forced to wait two 3. When would I like to retire?
Awards with her co-founder Lynne not forgetting how other nations years to access benefits if your 4. Is it possible to improve the
Bryant, the founder of the renowned and cultures have absorbed Chi- birthday falls on the ‘wrong side’ investment returns of my
Architectural Photography Awards. nese culture into their own cultur- of the cut-off date. This would pension?
Once again, the awards will be a first al heritage. Overall, she hopes that
also give you two more years 5. Is my pension flexible enough
and are open now for submissions the awards will “connect humanity,
until 5 January 2021. Covid-19 re- strengthen understanding and build of pension contributions and to provide me with a range
strictions apart, the intention is that communities through competition investment growth, which could of retirement options (lump
prizes will be awarded at her annual and exhibitions.” change the size of your pension sums, regular income, a
Chinese New Year reception. This pot. guaranteed annuity payment
photography competition is open to Legacy or a combination of all)?
anyone interested in Chinese culture, Yintong says that she will deem the A 45-year-old today, with
pension savings of £200,000 6. What are the charges being
amateur or professional. project a success if the quantity and
quality of the submissions are such applied to my pension?
and making pension
Understanding that she can make these annual contributions of £1,000 per 7. Have I nominated a beneficiary
Yintong tells me that she wants to awards and establish them as part who would receive my pension
month would have a pension pot
“bring people together through of the international photographic in the event of my death?
of £480,991 by the time they are
photography by inviting photogra- awards calendar. She adds, with a
phers from all over the world to wry smile, “we are also keen to find 55 (assuming a 5% growth per How can we help?
participate with images of values enthusiastic sponsors and support- annum). If they continued saving If you require any assistance with
shared by everyone; a love of life, ers for this legacy project”. at the same rate for another two your retirement planning and
family and environment while re- At a time when the West needs to years, the pension pot would pensions, please contact Görkem
flecting on an underlying Chinese understand China better, this will grow to £555,839 – a staggering Gökyiğit (gorkemgokyigit@
culture”. She would like to build a be a valuable study of the many hid-
difference of £74,848. lfwm.co.uk).
better understanding of Chinese den aspects of Chinese culture and
culture and society today, a culture society.
which has been transported around Lubbock Fine Wealth
the world and with a history of over www.sinophoto-awards.com Management LLP
5,000 years, which goes far beyond Paternoster House
Chinese food, styles of architecture Theresa Booth is joint chief 65 St Paul’s Churchyard
and Chinese New Year, and create a executive of the Chopsticks Club London EC4M 8AB
legacy of photographs that bear wit- and founding director of Engage t +44(0)20 7490 7766
ness to this culture in a world that with China Limited www.lfwm.co.uk
has become increasingly culturally http://chopsticksclub.com14 Your business October 2020
Literature in
the open air
Inspiring trust for a more resilient word
Wimbledon Bookfest’s abridged version took account of rules on
social gatherings to great effect and showed that such events can
Join us at the be held safely and enjoyably writes Daniel Peters.
November Standards The weather helped as mid-September was positively balmy. And
the line-up of authors was wide, varied and topical – featuring
e-Conference, featuring former PM David Cameron (for the record I wouldn’t bother with his
autobiography For the Record), former table tennis player and black
the BSI Standards Awards, box thinker Matthew Syed, and local comedian Andy Hamilton.
to focus on the future
and building back better
through standards
BSI Standards e-Conferences are
opportunities for cross-sector knowledge
sharing and networking and exploring
key developments in standards.
The e-Conference is designed for all those
already making or using standards as well
as anyone interested in learning more about
the benefit of using standards or how they
can get involved in their development.
17-19 Nov 2020
Barnstorming
Most entertaining of them all for me was poet Lemn Sissay. He
was due to read from his remarkable memoir My Name is Why and
latest poetry collection Gold from the Stone. He didn’t get round to
Register here either and instead gave a serious, hilarious, moving, barnstorming
performance of a man who has survived an emotionally scarring
(you would have thought) upbringing and has developed into
something approaching a national treasure.
www.wimbledonbookfest.org
Photos by Jed AllenOctober 2020 Your business 15
Free London business network
to help with Covid-19 recovery
A new, free, community • A ‘Proud to be part of the London
network for the capital’s Chamber Community Network’
businesses has been launched email footer.
by LCCI providing vital support
and assistance. Note that joining the Community
T
Network does not give companies
he Chamber is offering access to LCCI member-only
all businesses who are benefits. These benefits include
non-members complimenta- account management support,
ry access to the London Chamber discounts on export documentation,
Community Network. During chal- facilitated introductions to
lenging time for business, the net- members, member-only events,
work is designed to help companies profile-raising opportunities,
recover and rebuild. enhanced access to Chamber
Joining the community provides Connect, HR and legal advice and
London businesses with access to: use of the city-based members’
• Business and policy news, digests lounge.
and information resources, in-
cluding EU Exit The community is free to join and
• LCCI’s business resilience webi- • Chamber Connect – Ask the Ex- ed in LCCI’s Members’ Lounge the registration process is simple.
nar programme pert – 20 minutes of complimen- • 40 per cent discount on Experian Complete a short online form on
• Chamber Finance Finder – an on- tary advice from LCCI member marketing lists and five per cent the LCCI website:
line platform enabling a business experts discount on London Chamber of www.londonchamber.co.uk/
to see available funding opportu- • Complimentary token for one fu- Arbitration and Mediation services membership/london-chamber-
nities ture LCCI networking event host- • London Business Matters magazine community-network
Award winning print and digital media
Get in touch
Email: hello@crosbyassociates.co.uk or tel: 0330 124 3780
www.crosbyassociates.co.uk
Liverpool Manchester London
(Head Office) Burlington House, First Floor, Lloyd’s House, 22 Lloyd Street 3rd Floor, 33 Finsbury Square
Crosby Road North, Liverpool L22 0PJ Manchester M2 5WA London EC2A 1BBYou can also read
