Your Business Bulletin from Thanet & East Kent Chamber

Thanet & East Kent Insider

13^th April 2013 Issue No.: 201

1. Change to Win Breakfast 26 April 2013

Change To Win will be the theme for the Chamber Business Networking Breakfast scheduled for Friday, 26th April 2013. Delegates will hear how three organisations have embraced change with huge benefits to their customers, to their staff and to their profitability. This next Chamber event will be at the Walpole Bay Hotel which will celebrate its centenary next year. Despite its on-site museum, 1927 Otis trellis gated lift and old world charm, this hotel has not been afraid to use modern media to promote its restaurant and accommodation. Popular with directors of modelling shoots, the hotel has also featured in the BBC One’s Cash in the Attic, Channel 5’s Hotel Inspector and Sky Sports broadcasts with Paula Ratcliffe, Steve Cram and Tim Hutchins.  The speakers will each tell their story of how they have kept ahead of the competition and successfully implemented change with outstanding results. There will be ample time for networking.  The event will begin at 0730 hrs and will finish just before 0900 hrs. Booking is essential. Full details will follow with confirmation. The price of £12 for Chamber members includes a full English breakfast with a vegetarian option. To reserve your place, email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. with the subject line “Change to Win Breakfast 26 April 2013”. There is a limited number of places for non-members.

2. South East Air Show Breakfast 17 May 2013

A huge boost to East Kent business is expected from the South East Air Show at Manston. Companies in all sectors stand to benefit from the massive influx of visitors to Manston on 22nd June 2013. Our South East Air Show Chamber Business Networking Breakfast will take place at a venue near Manston on Friday 17th May 2013.  The main speaker will be the organiser of the Air Show, Angie Sutton of Chamber member AS Enterprises. A former senior officer in the RAF, Angie has battle experience as the director of airfield operations at Kandahar, Afghanistan. Praised unreservedly for her coolness under fire by her senior officer, Group Captain M F Baker, “during a very long a dangerous summer in a hostile theatre of war”, Angie is ideally qualified to make a success of the air show. She will speak about the opportunities for companies to promote their products and services at the event and explain how Chamber members can open the wallets of the thousands of visitors expected and meet the VIP decision-makers from leading companies in the South East. We have been waiting 20 years for the air show to return to Manston. If you want to boost the turnover of your company, meet commercial buyers and interface with thousands of potential customers, you should attend this Chamber business breakfast from 0730 hrs to 0900 hrs.  Booking is essential. Full details will follow with confirmation. There will be plenty of time for networking. The price of £12 for Chamber members includes a full English breakfast with a vegetarian option. To reserve your place, email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. with the subject line “South East Air Show Breakfast 17 May 2013”. There is a limited number of places for non-members.

3. KLM Launch

The Chamber’s long-standing campaign to support Chamber member Manston Airport in attracting a national carrier to the home of Kent’s longest runway was fully vindicated earlier this month on 2nd April 2013 when KLM Air France launched its daily flights to and from Schiphol Amsterdam. National broadcasters and wide press coverage ensured that the news was brought to potential passengers from across the catchment area of the South East. David Johns of ITV Meridian gave a full account in his broadcast that evening, see http://www.itv.com/news/meridian/update/2013-04-03/new-era-for-air-travel-in-south-east/   A distinguished group of Kent VIPs in attendance for the launch included Chamber Co-President Sir Roger Gale MP, Kent County Council Leader Paul Carter, Thanet District Council Leader Clive Hart,  Dover District Council Leader Paul Watkins and Henri Hourcade, the KLM Air France General Manager for UK & Ireland. With a smile broad enough to illuminate the departure lounge, Manston Airport Managing Director Charles Buchanan was justifiably proud of the new facilities available and the success of his staff in meeting a demanding schedule of works prior to the big day. Passengers from Manston can now connect at Schiphol to 190 cities worldwide. Manston is less than an hour from direct connections to the world; a huge boost for exporters, tourism managers and anyone with overseas contacts. It also means more jobs for locals, more customers for our shops and more business for our companies.

4. How Are We Doing?

As predicted in the Thanet & East Kent Insider, the latest unemployment figures have at last showed a year-on-year net increase in jobs across every district of Kent. For the first time in over four years, right across the county there are now more people employed than twelve months previously. Our joy does not remain unconfined. Youth unemployment remains a serious concern in the East Kent coastal business community. The Office for National Statistics reports that 13.4% of 18 to 24 year olds in Thanet are looking for work which again contrasts sharply with just 3.3% in Canterbury, the lowest rate in Kent. The picture in the Dover district is not much brighter at 9.4% nor is the climate sunnier in Shepway at 8.0%. The band of 18 to 24 year olds accounts for over a quarter of all the unemployed in Kent. Nonetheless, the overall trend for men and women in Kent aged 16 to 64 years old is decidedly positive and reveals a marked change from the outlook for the local economy in February 2009 when the Thanet & East Kent Insider edition no. 53 noted an annual growth in unemployment in Kent of over 90%.

5. Give Us The Facts

Unemployment

Data reproduced under the terms of the Click-use License no. C2010000980. All rights reserved.

6. Discovery Park

Chamber members attending our recent business breakfast at the Discovery Park were treated to a detailed account of the magnificent facilities available to prospective tenants at this former Pfizer site at Sandwich. Located in an officially designated Enterprise Zone, the Discovery Park sits within the district of Dover. Managing Director Paul Barber outlined the business support packages available and referred to the success enjoyed by the tenants of its sister business park in Billingham. Discovery Park’s parent company can rely on the experience gained from managing over £1 billion of assets in Europe and Asia. There is over 1.5 million square feet of high class accommodation available in Sandwich with excellent road, rail and ferry links to London and the continent. Due to the EZ status, incoming tenants can enjoy a subsidy on business rates of up to £275,000 on their first five years on site. Development Director Paul Weavers emphasized the flexibility of the accommodation available. With over 1,000 people now employed there, the Discovery Park is well on the way to achieving its long-term objective of attracting 6,000 employees. Chamber Co-President and Member of Parliament for the area, Laura Sandys, said that first-time visitors to the site are almost always amazed by the truly world-class laboratories and the range of hi-tech equipment available to Research & Development companies. She added that her government is fully supportive of the Discovery Park and would be making every effort to ensure that inward investors have the best possible chances of success.

7. Skanska UK

Chamber members attending our recent Skanska Lunch were treated to an invitation to work with the world’s 9th largest construction company on projects in Kent. Over 150 companies were represented at the meeting to hear Skanska’s senior staff explain in detail how firms based in East Kent can sell their products and services to Skanska subject to the high standards of quality and sustainability that the company promotes for itself and for all its suppliers. Over £23 million was spent by the company in Kent last year. With a bid in the pipeline to take over the facilities management of a substantial estate of publicly owned buildings in the county, turnover is expected to rise considerably. Registered Chamber members will be at the front of the queue to benefit. Any Chamber members who were not available to attend the event can find details of the scheme by emailing This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. with the subject line “Skanska Opportunity”. Photographs from this and a selection of other recent Chamber events can be found on our image website at www.photoboxgallery.com/ddcc

8. East Kent Business Advice Clinic

The East Kent Business Advice Clinic is operated and administered by the Thanet & East Kent and the Dover District Chambers of Commerce. Conceived as a direct response to the withdrawal of the regional Business Link service, EKBAC has now welcomed over 140 established companies and would-be entrepreneurs to the monthly sessions. Around 60% of East Kent businesses fail within five years of their establishment [ONS, IDBR Mar 2012]. The EKBAC panel of bank managers, senior lawyers, Chief Executives, UK Business of the Year winner, chartered accountants, local entrepreneurs and other enlightened private sector professionals are able to predict and prevent a wide range of problems that start-ups and company owners face and advise on how changes to a business model or strategic direction might lead to increased profits and a healthier future for workers and shareholders alike. EKBAC operates without any public funding of any description. For more details on this free service, email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. with the subject line “EKBAC”.

9. Business, Innovation & Skills in East Kent

The EKBAC session of 14th March 2013 was observed by the Regional Head of the government’s Department for Business, Innovation & Skills together with his assistant director. The Chamber also arranged a helicopter tour of East Kent, by courtesy of Chamber member Summit Aviation, which allowed our visitors a literal overview of Thanet Offshore Wind Farm, the London Array, Quex Park, Thanet Earth, Manston Airport, Margate, Ramsgate Harbour, the Discovery Park, the Port of Dover, Western Heights, Farthingloe and Lakeview International Business Park. As well as a detailed briefing on the local economy from the Chamber, the Secretary of State for BIS, Rt Hon Vince Cable, can expect to receive a digest of the views of a selection of Chamber members who gathered in Sandwich during the afternoon for a frank exchange of views on how their businesses could benefit from changes in national policies. The Rating (Empty Properties) Act 2007 received some withering criticism for its devastating effect on commercial property investment in East Kent. Equally baffling for Chamber members was the continued imposition on UK regional airports of Airport Passenger Duty which is the highest in Europe. A recent PwC study commissioned by Virgin Atlantic, easyJet, Ryanair and British Airways, reported that the UK economy would be £16 billion to the good if APD were scrapped by 2015. The Chamber has learned that the World Economic Forum now ranks the UK 134th out of a list of 138 countries as regards competitive aviation taxes and airport charges. It may be of some comfort to know that we outperform Chad, Mali, Senegal and Ivory Coast.

10. KLM Air France Chamber

Breakfast On 15th March 2013, over 150 companies were represented at a Chamber business breakfast in Sandwich prior to the launch of KLM Air France flights to Schiphol Amsterdam, see item 3 above, to hear direct from KLM’s UK General Manager Henri Hourcade and his super efficient colleague Victoria Williams on how local companies could benefit from the new investment in East Kent. The airline already has an established record of success in developing routes from 16 other UK regional airports and confidently expects Manston to enjoy similar growth to Norwich, Southampton, Leeds, Bristol and the rest. As Field Sales Manager for London and UK South, Victoria is unsurprisingly a superb communicator and briefed delegates on the time and cost savings they can expect from using the new Manston service. As an example, Victoria said that anyone living in East Kent wishing to travel to New York could board a KLM flight at Manston and be on their way to New York from Amsterdam in less time than it takes to drive to London Heathrow. If you have ever struggled with delays on the M25, high parking charges at Gatwick, Heathrow and Stansted or three-hour check-in times at capital city airports, you will appreciate just how easy it can be to start your journey from a congestion-free regional airport. Laura Sandys MP added her congratulations which she had summarized in a previous publicly released statement as: “This makes Thanet even better connected with the rest of the world and makes our area a more attractive place to invest. I am very much looking forward to supporting KLM to ensure that this route is a success”.

11. Port of Dover

As regular readers will be aware, Dover People’s Port Trust is bidding to take over the ownership and management of the Port of Dover. In an exclusive interview with the Chamber, DPPT Chairman Neil Wiggins said: “Three years ago, with the port of Dover on the brink of being sold off privately, the founders of DPPT came forward with an idea and concept for the future of the port which marked a radical departure from all that had gone before in the UK ports industry; that the port should be owned by and run for the benefit of its local community. Today we are still committed to achieving this aim and, having won the argument over privatisation, believe that success is within reach.” Membership of DPPT is open to any adult living or working in the district of Dover. For details of how you might be able to buy a share in DPPT for £10, email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. with the subject line “Dover People’s Port Application Form”. Background information on DPPT can be found on the website at http://www.peoplesport.org.uk .

12. Farthingloe & Western Heights

Planning application DOV/12/00440 promises to develop housing, a hotel and a care home on the outskirts of Dover. It is now to be considered at a Dover District Council planning committee meeting on 30th May 2013. This £200 million project is expected to provide a significant stimulus to the East Kent economy. Not only will the extensive building works provide a huge boost in the short and medium term to suppliers and job seekers, but the quality accommodation envisaged will serve to attract skilled workers and senior managers to the area who will in turn bring a long-term benefit to our retailers and service providers. In addition, the visitor centre at the Drop Redoubt will undoubtedly add to the tourism offer and provide a welcome neighbour to the proposed National War Memorial on Western Heights which itself should attract around 250,000 visitors a year.

13. Spires Academy

The £13.4 million Spires Academy in Starry was opened last November by Sir Mervyn King who said at the time: “The moment will come when Spires Academy produces its first Governor of the Bank of England and that is a realistic aspiration for this school to aim for”. Quick feet and considerable creativity may well be valuable assets for any banker wishing to manage the UK financial sector. They are also skills which will be manifest at the Marlowe Theatre in Canterbury on 25th and 26th April 2013 when the Spires Academy will be joined by other local schools to showcase young dancing talent in East Kent. If you would like to spot a budding Billy Elliot or a possible future member of Diversity street dance troupe or would just like to support youth talent from across the county, then you will get full value for your ticket costing just £3 plus any booking or postal charges. For more information, telephone 01227 787787 or see the website at http://www.marlowetheatre.com/page/3040/Spires-Academy-Dance-Showcase/440 .

14. Masala Gate Gets 5 Stars

Chamber member Masala Gate is best known for the dishes on offer at its restaurant and take-away in Duke Street, Margate. Anyone with concerns about food hygiene can rest assured that Masala Gate has achieved a clean bill of health with a 5 star rating from Thanet District Council Environmental Health Department. Owner and manager Mahbub Hossain looks forward to welcoming individuals and groups from local companies and promises that no customers of his will leave disappointed. Menu items start at 60p for a popadom and peak at £10.95 for Tandoori King Prawn Shaslik which, as all Asian cuisine gourmets may recognise, consists of giant prawns from the Bay of Bengal marinated in spices, mixed with yoghurt, threaded onto skewers with onions and capsicums and finally cooked in a clay oven. Feeling peckish? Have a look at Mahbub’s website at http://masala-gate.co.uk/margate or give him a call: 01843 228877.

15. Turner Lecture & Dinner

The Turner Lecture and Dinner on 25th April 25th 2013at the Turner Contemporary in Margate will feature a lecture from the art critic, historian, broadcaster and curator Richard Cork. The evening begins with a drinks reception at 1800 hrs. Richard Cork will entertain guests from 1845 hrs and dinner will be served at 2000 hrs. Tickets priced at £100 each or £700 for a table of eight are available on the website at www.turnercontemporary.org/whatson or by telephone to 01843 233000.

16. Bank Fined

Have you ever been fined for parking your car in the wrong place or exceeding a 30 mph limit in a built-up area? If so, you will probably have felt aggrieved that your overall contribution to society has not been taken into mitigation resulting in a reduced fine; £25 or less being more bearable. By contrast, the Royal Bank of Scotland has freely admitted its sin of fiddling the London Interbank Offered Rate, known as LIBOR, and has agreed to pay penalties of £87.5 million to the UK’s Financial Services Authority,  $325 million to the United States Commodity Futures Trading Commission and $150 million to the United States Department of Justice. Does that make you feel better?

17. Advice On HS2

The HS1 fast rail link from London St Pancras to East Kent operated by Southeastern Railway has been a success for most local companies located near a station on the line, but has had a detrimental effect on the pre-existing ‘classic’ routes where journey times have lengthened, Anyone from Margate or Herne Bay needing to commute to the City of London has been particularly disfavoured. Chamber Co-President Sir Roger Gale has been a stern critic of the service available to passengers using the classic routes and directs our attention to the “Longer journey times, fewer and crowded trains, an unreliable service and much, much higher fares.” There are still some inexplicable anomalies which Southeastern Railway has yet to address successfully. Why does the HS1 train stop at two stations within one mile of each other at Folkestone West and Folkestone Central? This has a needlessly deleterious effect on stops further down the line. The sensible option of closing one of these stations seems to be beyond the management mechanisms currently in place. There is a heightened land value premium attached to any property near a station within the magic sixty minutes of London St Pancras. Freehold owners in Ashford and Canterbury have basked in self-contentment. With a few minor adjustments and a more considered timetable in Folkestone, residents and businesses in Dover could enjoy a warm glow of comfort from being within the golden hour of travel to the centre of power and influence in the UK.  One of the lessons to be learned from the design and construction phase of HS1 is that more attention should be given to simultaneous planning. We are now considering a parkway station at Manston airport. If this had been incorporated into the original HS1 scheme, it would have made our travel plans so much simpler. Similarly, it is not very clever for Southeastern Railway to open a station on the high speed line and then later to decide that it would be a good idea to have a car park nearby, which is what seems to have happened in the case of Dover Priory station. The designers of HS2 should take note.

18. Kerry Dixon At Bay Point Club

On Thursday 2nd May 2013, the BayPoint Club in Sandwich is hosting an evening with Kerry Dixon, the gifted English footballer renowned for his goal-scoring prowess in the 1980s and early 1990s. He netted 193 times for Chelsea and scored 4 goals in his 8 appearances for the national team. Less well-known is that early in his career when playing for Reading, he scored 4 goals in a Third Division encounter against Doncaster Rovers on 22nd September 1982, but ended on the losing side of a 7 – 5 result. This must have impressed him considerably because after his top level spells with Chelsea, Southampton, Luton, Millwall and Watford, he accepted an offer from Doncaster Chairman Ken Richardson to be a player/manager at the club and stayed for one year before leaving at the end of the 1996/97 season. Dixon is held in great affection by Doncaster supporters for his efforts during his brief stint with the South Yorkshire side. It will be interesting to hear his views on his then Chairman. Readers of this business bulletin will know that Doncaster Rovers has not always been blessed with the best management. Ken Richardson was described by detectives as “the type that would trample a two-year-old child to pick up a 2p bit”. He later appeared before Judge Peter Baker QC to receive a sentence of four years in jail for conspiracy to commit arson. It was revealed that Richardson had offered £10,000 to a former soldier to start a fire at the club’s Belle Vue ground. His partner in crime, Alan Kristiansen, did the deed but left his mobile telephone behind allowing the police to trace and arrest him swiftly. Kristiansen was subsequently invited to spend 12 months at Her Majesty’s pleasure. These pages have often commented on the waywardness of modern footballers. It will be interesting to hear of Dixon’s views on George Best, Kevin Keegan, Stan Bowles and other notable players of a bygone era before the Premier League inflated the salaries of players to the levels of merchant bankers. Whereas now a stable of Ferraris, Bentleys and Range Rovers has became the norm for professionals playing at the highest levels, in previous eras, players sought simpler pleasures. Seventies showman Stan Bowles was a genius of a footballer who was adored by his Queens Park Rangers fans but did not always invest his money wisely. One of his managers, Ernie Tagg, once remarked: “If Stan could pass a bookies as well as he passes a football, he’d be a very rich man.”  Tickets for the Meet Kerry Dixon evening on 2nd May 2013 can be obtained at £25 for members and £29.50 for non-members by telephone to 01304 613022 or by email to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.  f The price includes a buffet meal and the opportunity to ask Dixon questions such as which club he found to be the more glamorous. Will it be Chelsea or Doncaster? For your information, Chelsea are the current champions of Europe as holders of the UEFA Champions League title. The team has won the First Division/Premier League five times, the FA Cup on seven occasions, the League Cup and FA Community Shield four times, the UEFA Cup twice and the European Super Cup once. Celebrity Chelsea fans include Raquel Welch, Sienna Miller, Michael Crawford, Bryan Adams, Jimmy Page, Danni Minogue, Lord Coe, Sir Stephen Redgrave, Joe Calzaghe, Sir John Major and Bill Clinton. Among the club’s sponsors are Adidas, Samsung, Audi, Thomas Cook and Dolce & Gabanna. On the other hand, Doncaster Rovers has won the Johnson’s Paint Trophy and is supported among others by its local Yorkshire Pie House, “Country pub pies. All served with home-made mash or fat cut chips”. To find out if Mr Kerry Dixon prefers Sienna Miller to fat cut chips you have to be there on 2nd May 2013.

© David Foley 13th April 2013

Your Business Bulletin from Thanet & East Kent Chamber

Thanet & East Kent Insider

20^th January 2013  Issue No.: 200

1. Opportunity Knocks for East Kent Companies

Chamber members will recall from previous editions of this business bulletin that the 297-acre Discovery Park is now under new ownership with the promise of a minimum of 3,000 jobs in the next four years. With the final total to be possibly double that figure, there are clearly opportunities for East Kent companies to market their products and services to the owners and tenants on site. The Thanet & East Kent Chamber and its sister body the Dover District Chamber of Commerce have reached an official agreement with the senior management of the Discovery Park to promote liaison with the East Kent business community. With this in mind, the Discovery Park has joined the Chambers. As a result, local companies are invited to meet key decision-makers and buyers of Discovery Park Ltd at a special Chamber Business Networking Breakfast next month.

2. Sounds Wonderful, How Do I Book?

February 2013. The session will include a briefing on the latest plans and objectives of the Discovery Park together with an introduction to its purchasing plans and the potential benefits for local companies. There will be ample time for networking and questions. The event will take place in Sandwich beginning at 0730 hrs and will finish just before 0900 hrs. Booking is essential. The price of £12 for Chamber members includes a full English breakfast with a vegetarian option. To reserve your place, email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. with the subject line “Discovery Park Breakfast 15 February 2013”. There are a limited number of places for non-members.

3. More Details Please

Readers of issue no. 191 of the Thanet & East Kent Insider of 5^th August 2012 will be aware that the owners of the Discovery Park have an impressive record of regenerating commercial property sites having transformed the former Samsung site in Billingham. Local companies there are currently enjoying a boom time which has seen the area transformed from the misery of 450 jobs lost when Samsung closed its operations to the current state of rude health. Trading as Wynyard Park, the Billingham site now has over 60 companies taking advantage of the modern facilities billed as “An ideal location offering fantastic opportunities for businesses of all sizes” and “in a prime location with excellent transport links”. If Billingham is ideal, then the Discovery Park must surely rank one level higher; being closer to the EU, closer to London, at the end of the UK’s fastest rail service and within a few miles of Manston Airport and the Dover and Ramsgate ferries. Support from officialdom suggests that there will be relatively few bureaucratic hurdles awaiting inward investors. Paul Watkins, Leader of Dover District Council, has already stated publicly: “ We welcome the commitment that Discovery Park Limited has made to the long term future of the site.” Similarly, Paul Carter, Leader of Kent County Council, has every confidence in the Discovery Park directors: “I expect them to be successful in meeting their target for creating 3,000 new jobs at Discovery Park, in East Kent.” Although the site is located just over its border, Thanet District Council fully appreciates the advantages a successful regeneration of the former Pfizer site could bring to Thanet. The Draft Economic Strategy for Thanet notes the excellent road and rail links available and adds authoritatively: “The facilities at Discovery Park in Sandwich provide research and development infrastructure that is second to none”.   Chamber Co-President, Sir Roger Gale MP, paid a handsome tribute to his fellow Chamber Co-President, Laura Sandys MP, in praising her successful efforts to secure Enterprise Zone status for the site. As he put it: “Faced with the loss of thousands of Pfizer-based and dependent jobs in her constituency as a result of the firm`s decision to re-locate most of its business, Laura has harnessed a huge amount of effort and political goodwill in her successful endeavour to persuade the Government that East Kent should host one of relatively few Enterprise Zones.”

4. Media Watch

The Chamber featured in a BBC Radio Kent broadcast of yesterday which focussed on a remarkable campaign to build an Ice Rink in Thanet. Within 24 hrs of launching her Facebook page, organiser Rachel Harvey received over 1,000 messages of support. The current total is now over 9,000. The Chamber has already received some expressions of interest in building such an all-year round tourist facility and we will be happy to contribute to a business plan that might attract a suitable investor, help to locate the land and assist in finding the appropriate operator. Our good friends at BBC Radio Kent will keep the broadcast online until 25 ^th January 2013, click on http://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/p013gf79and fast forward to 2:22:20.  The Chamber’s contribution starts at 2:25:40 with mentions for Chamber members Discovery Park, Turner Centre, Shepherd Neame and Manston Airport.   The optimistic outlook for the Thanet District is reflected in some recent goods news in the neighbouring Dover district which encompasses Sandwich and Deal. The Dover Express carried a positive story about business start-ups, see http://www.thisiskent.co.uk/Hundreds-firms-start-Dover/story-17816348-detail/story.html The increased number of start-up companies in the district recorded by the National Office for Statistics must be music to the ears of the Dover District Chamber of Commerce President, Charlie Elphicke MP. It certainly echoes reports from the East Kent Business Advice Clinics which the Dover and Thanet Chambers host. The Dover District Chamber of Commerce was established in 1850 and is therefore well-qualified to take a long-term view of developments in the local economy. It is thus with an historical perspective on recoveries following previous recessions that the Dover Chamber Chief Executive is quoted as saying: “As confidence returns we will expect more people to consider starting up a company in the area."

5. More Sag Aloo Please

One start-up that is confident of its investment is the Masala Gate restaurant at 10 Duke Street in Margate CT9 1EP. A six-figure sum was spent on the refurbishment of the building and this is immediately evident in the restored plaster work that adorns the ceiling and walls of the dining area. Owner and Manager Mahbub Hossain is so confident of the long-term success of the restaurant that he is offering a 50% discount on food to Chamber members eating there before 28^th February 2013. To book your table, telephone 01843 228877. Please bring with you your 2013 Chamber Diary or a copy of this business bulletin. Mabub tells us that the ingredients in his curries bring some serious health benefits. “ Turmeric has been found to reduce the risk of developing prostate, breast, skin and colorectal cancer, possibly because of its antioxidant properties.” He adds: “Another benefit of the turmeric in curry is a reduced risk for Alzheimer’s Disease and dementia.” Mahbud emphasises how you can feel and look healthier after a regular intake of Indian dishes as they are “rich in antioxidants, which can help improve the appearance of your skin and help prevent the negative cosmetic effects of long-term exposure to pollutants or smoke".

6. It’s Snowing; Must I Pay My Absent Staff?

We are advised by ACAS that “Employees are not automatically entitled to pay if unable to get to work because of bad weather”. Of course, good employers will take into account the particular circumstances of their staff and the benefits of being understanding in extreme weather conditions. ACAS gives some useful advice on its website at

www.acas.org.uk

For more detailed guidance on your legal position, contact one of the following specialist firm of solicitors who will give you chapter and verse on what the law allows you to do and how you might avoid the time, trouble and tribulations of the dreaded Employment Tribunal: Barnes Marsland of Margate tel: 01843 221466; Boys & Maughan of Birchington, Broadstairs, Margate and Ramsgate tel: 01843 234000; Gardner Croft of Canterbury tel: 01227 813400; Girlings of Ashford, Canterbury, Herne Bay and Margate tel: 01843 220274; Macalister White of Ramsgate tel: 01843 572789; Mowll & Mowll of Dover tel: 01304 873344.

7. Problems With Wheatbags

If you have never had a problem with a wheatbag, you should count your blessings. Kent Fire & Rescue Service has contacted the Chamber with a warning following an incident in Maidstone. We learn that: “A resident at Crispin Court, Coxheath near Maidstone, mistakenly overheated his wheatbag, leading to charring and large quantities of smoke which set off his smoke alarm.” According to the local Fire Station Manager Paul Ramsden: “While the gentleman was not injured and there was no damage to the microwave, it doesn't take much to see how a far more serious fire could have developed.” Apart from the momentary thrill of being called a gentleman, the individual concerned must have been relieved at his narrow escape. Similar incidents have occurred in Surrey and Sussex. Paul recommends “Do not use your wheat bag as a bed warmer.” Kent Standards has circulated details of a product recall notice for a Morphy Richards electric blanket model number 75312. It seems that these days a good old-fashioned hot water bottle or a good old-fashioned spouse is a preferable companion at night. Anyone who doubts the wisdom of this conclusion is welcome to seek confirmation from the Fire Service itself which can be found on the website at http://www.kent.fire-uk.org/default.aspx?page=1391 where you can also hear an account of a fire in Broadstairs and a father saying: “My son is only alive because of the smoke alarms”. It makes you think, doesn’t it?

8. Ecobuild 2013

Building companies, estate agents, surveyors, architects and anyone involved in the green economy might have an interest in the Ecobuild exhibition scheduled to run for three days from 5^th March 2013 at ExCel London. As well as showcasing green products and services for the construction sector, the event hosts a conference with a programme sanctioned by advisors from the UK Green Building Council, Marks & Spencer, Skanska, CPA, KPMG, Deloitte, Reading University and Quintain. For more information and a free entry ticket, see http://www.ecobuild.co.uk.

9. Children’s Centres

Children’s Centres and their future in Thanet will be the subject of a workshop to take place in Margate on the afternoon of 13^th February 2013. We are grateful for the update to Kent County Council’s Debee Beale who bears the title of Thanet District Children's Centres Manager. Anyone with a professional or personal interest in Children’s Centres will be welcome to attend to give an opinion on local solutions and choices for Thanet. Debee can be reached by email to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or by telephone to 0300 333 5627. More information is available on the website at http://www.kent.gov.uk/education_and_learning/childcare_and_early_education/childrens_centres/future_service_options_program.aspx

7. Developing Your Business

Martin White of Empowered Business has contacted the Chamber with news of his services to SMEs. He writes: “From identifying your business strengths to understanding your customers and creating the right business strategy to meet your objectives, Empowered Business uses proven business process to work with you to create bespoke business development solutions that drive your business forward in the marketplace. ”  Martin looks forward to meeting fellow Chamber members at the Chamber Business Networking Breakfast planned for 15^th February 2013 but welcomes enquiries before then by email to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or direct to his mobile, tel: 0776 826 7515.

8. Change of Fire Alarm Policy

We are grateful to Sacha Taylor for informing the Chamber of important changes from next April to the response policy of Kent Fire and Rescue Service (KFRS) regarding Automatic Fire Alarms. We are advised that: “From April 2013, any premises reporting an alarm sounding will be required to confirm to 999 staff that there is a fire, or signs of fire, before any firefighting response is sent.” There are some exceptions for alarms in sheltered accommodation. We have learned that in the nine months to December 2012, “The service has seen a significant reduction in the number of false alarms since it introduced the first phase of the change in April 2012, which affected calls to AFAs activated during daytime hours (6 am to 6pm). A third of the total number of calls the service received were previously from automatic systems and over 98% of these were false alarms.  Since we stopped attending these alarms during the day, on nearly 1400 occasions, fire engines were available for genuine emergencies rather than being out dealing with false alarms”. More information is available direct from KFRS, tel: 01622 692121.

9. Alzheimer’s Breakthrough

Chamber member Dr Fiona Sherriff informs us of a breakthrough in the treatment of Alzheimer’s disease. A group of researchers from Université Laval, CHU de Québec and pharmaceutical giant GlaxoSmithKlinehas discovered a way to stimulate the brain's natural defence mechanisms in people with Alzheimer's disease. It is expected that this breakthrough will lead to the development of a vaccine to prevent the illness.   As well as being a distinguished researcher herself into the operation of the brain, Fiona owns and manages The Property Tree, a company specialising in the leasing, rental and sales of residential and commercial property in Thanet. Fiona welcomes enquiries by telephone direct to her Margate office, tel: 01843 230786.

10. Digital Marketing

We are grateful to Rachel Knight of Chamber member Maxim, tel: 01892 513033, for sending us the text of an article by her colleague, Delphine Houlton, which analyses responses to digital marketing and finds some surprising data. Delphine concludes that “According to recent research by fast.MAP, brands concentrating on social media to get their messages across may well do better focusing on more traditional means of communication.”   Many Chamber members will be reassured that traditional marketing techniques may still have a use due to increasing resistance to more modern approaches. Delphine writes: “An increasing percentage of consumers are actively avoiding contact by digital routes with 79% of us closing website pop-ups unread. Three in five people ignore ‘friending’ requests on social media and 63% of consumers delete emails they receive from companies they have not heard of. When it comes to companies they have previously dealt with, however, consumers generally prefer email communication (57%) with direct mail coming in at 40%. Only 4% are happy to receive calls on their mobiles or messages via social media such as Twitter.” Delphine adds that at the heart of successful marketing, there “has always been communicating with potential customers directly, engaging with their personal interests and at the right pace.”

11. Commercial Energy Costs

We are again grateful to Martyn Young of Zero Trace Procurement, tel: 01227 475506, for his expert commentary on power and gas prices. In a detailed email to the Chamber at the beginning of the month, he wrote of: “the impact of the US postponing the fiscal cliff, which had a bullish impact on energy contracts due to the subsequent rise in the oil price and the belief that the US will start to recover.” Martyn’s prophecy seems to be coming to pass with some clear signs of recovery in the US. For instance, General Electric has just reported a 22% rise in revenue from its units selling jet engines and a 14% increase in sales of oil and gas equipment. Rising energy costs have constituted a heavy burden for East Kent companies in recent years. The January 2013 Energy Report from our good friends at E.On points to high rises in year-on-year energy costs for commercial electricity and gas but a more encouraging fall from the previous month across the board.

12.The Facts About Energy Costs

13. A Bigger Circulation

A tour guide from Folkestone has contacted the Chamber with a tale relating to a recent visit to the town by some professors from Poland. We have our doubts about this story, but we leave it to our readers to judge for themselves. While our tour guide was escorting these distinguished academics along the Leas with its splendid lawns and views of the English Channel, he stopped in front of a statue and announced proudly: “This is William Harvey, Folkestone’s most celebrated son. We have a hospital and a school named after him. He was born and went to school in Folkestone before training to become a physician. Nearly 400 years ago, he revolutionised medicine forever when he discovered the circulation of the blood. So, ladies and gentlemen, if you wake up tomorrow morning and find that the blood is still going around your body, you must say a quick ‘Thank you William Harvey’.”. On hearing these words, the senior professor of the party remarked: “Just a moment young man. I am from Toruń in Poland. It is the birthplace of Nicolaus Copernicus, Toruń’s most famous son. We have a university and a street named after him. He went to school in Toruń. Nearly 500 years ago, before your William Harvey, he revolutionised science forever when he discovered the true motion of the planets. So, Ladies and gentlemen, if you wake up tomorrow morning and find that the earth is still going around the sun, you must say a quick ‘Thank you, N icolaus Copernicus’.” Each to their own, but on balance we think that the Polish professor may have got the better of this exchange.

© David Foley 20^th January 2013

Your Business Bulletin from Thanet & East Kent Chamber  

Thanet & East Kent Insider

16^th December 2012  Issue No.: 199

1. Working With Thanet District Council

The Thanet & East Kent Chamber welcomes a new understanding with Thanet District Council (TDC) following the signing of a ‘Memorandum of Understanding’ that signals a strong commitment to supporting local business. It will run for three years and gives council recognition that TEKC is the largest representative of local business. Underpinned by the MoU are mutual interests such as the growth of the local economy, inward investment and job creation. Details laid down include a council undertaking to consult with TEKC when developing policies and major initiatives that seek to promote the area’s growth. In response to this, TEKC has agreed to provide the council with regular feedback on commercial issues and to give its backing to jointly agreed policies and initiatives. Both parties have pledged to liaise over initiatives to encourage new businesses and to back existing firms operating within the district. TEKC will give public endorsement to council measures designed to promote the business community. In an extra boost to the local economy, the MoU commits the council and TEKC to supporting activity that provides advice to commercial organisations. The document also heralds joint working on promoting the area to inward investors and encouraging start-up businesses. Regular contact between the council and TEKC will strengthen all the aims and objectives of the two organisations as they work towards helping the local business community. Leader of Thanet District Council, Cllr Clive Hart, said: “The council and TEKC are both dedicated to supporting the local economy through job creation, business promotion and attracting inward investment. As the largest business support agency in Thanet, TEKC has an intimate knowledge of the needs of the local private sector, and we’re very happy to have forged such a strong and effective relationship. The Memorandum of Understanding represents a tangible and auspicious pledge to the local economy and the people of Thanet.” TEKC Chief Executive David Foley said: “This agreement marks a significant step forward in strengthening the links between the democratically elected local government body representing the district and the largest business support organisation. We look forward to working together to promote local companies, to ease the growing pains of start-ups and to attract inward investment for the benefit of all companies, workers and residents.”

2. Thanet Skills Studio

The Chamber was happy to be represented at the opening of the newly refurbished Thanet Skills Studio (TSS) at Westwood, near Margate earlier this month. Kent County Council Leader Paul Carter, a noted classic car and race enthusiast, was a picture of unconcealed delight as he cast an expert eye over the brand new Caterham sports car available to engineering students studying at TSS. In a short speech before the official opening ceremony, Cllr Carter emphasized the need to align vocational education closely with the practical skills that businesses require. As he put it: “ The more we do to link the business, education and public sectors, the better.” Hartsdown Academy is the lead partner in the project and executive head Andy Summers was clear and concise about the main objective of TSS. He said: “Thanet Skills Studio is all about one simple, clear and very important ideal – developing real skills for real jobs.” There is no doubt that TSS is a splendid project that bridges the gap between school and the world of work which is essential if we are to support a vibrant economy in East Kent. Chamber members with an interest in visiting TSS to see this excellent initiative for themselves are invited to telephone 01843 233130 or to email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. to arrange a visit.

3. Not Just Pens & Key Rings

New Chamber member DAT1 is offering free delivery on orders over £500 from a range of over 20,000 promotional products which include standard items such as mouse mats, key rings and printed pens but also extend to 5,000 brandable garments, 3D glasses, watches and an intriguing category of ‘relaxation sets’. Based in Westbrook Kent, the birthplace of the late but much lamented Kent cricketer Richard Davies, DAT1 delivers nationwide and welcomes enquiries to its sales office by email to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or by telephone to 01843 835213.

4. East Kent Business Advice Clinic

A full list of delegates attended December’s East Kent Business Advice Clinic (EKBAC). Established in March 2011 to replace the defunct regional programme of Business Link, EKBAC has now welcomed nearly 130 people to its monthly sessions in Broadstairs and Dover. Offering advice from senior lawyers, chartered accountants, bank managers and seasoned industry professionals, the clinics allow any company trading in East Kent to receive bespoke guidance in complete confidence and without charge. Unlike the Dragon’s Den format, the panel of advisors are not in the business of boosting their own bank balances or proving to the world now clever and successful they are. The EKBAC panellists have all been eminently successful in their own careers and are now happy to support the economy that has nourished them so well. Appointments can be made by email to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. with the subject line “East Kent Business Advice Clinic”.

5. Labradors Wanted

A Chamber member is anxious to find nine Labradors aged six months to two years for training as working dogs. A successful transaction could lead to further orders on a larger scale with associated business opportunities. Please send any offers by email to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. with the subject line “Labrador dogs”.

6. Airlines Banned in EU

We are grateful to Paul Twyman, Chairman of Kent International Airport Consultative Committee, for an update on airlines banned from flying in EU airspace. Subject to a disclaimer that states that absence from the list does not imply acceptable safety standards since “ it is not possible to check all aircraft that land at each Community airport”, Chamber members might like to take into account the names of the airlines listed when they book their next holiday or business trip. The European air safety list was updated earlier this month and includes all carriers certified in countries whose operations are fully banned in the European Union. The airlines banned are based in Afghanistan, Angola, Benin, Republic of Congo, the Democratic Republic of Congo, Djibouti, Equatorial Guinea, Eritrea, Kyrgyzstan, Liberia, Mozambique, Philippines, Sierra Leone, Sao Tome and Principe, Sudan, Swaziland and Zambia. All but six carriers in Indonesia are banned, as are all but three in Gabon and all but one in Kazakhstan. If you enjoy wading through European legislation or simply have difficulty in getting to sleep at night, the official journal of the European Union dated 5 ^th December 2012 will interest you, particularly “Commission Implementing Regulation (EU) No 1146/2012 of 3 December 2012 amending Regulation (EC) No 474/2006”. For the rest of us, a handy list is available on-line at  http://ec.europa.eu/transport/modes/air/safety/air-ban/index_en.htm. It remains a mystery why one airline in Mozambique chose to call itself ETA Air Charter. Regular readers will know that companies with international aspirations have to be careful not to select company or product names with pejorative connotations. An airline that shares its name with a proscribed Basque paramilitary group might be at something of a disadvantage when marketing its services in Madrid and Paris.

7. Thanet & Dover Surcharge

For nearly five years, the Thanet & East Kent Chamber has monitored the surcharge levied on fuel sold in Thanet. The price difference between Tesco Extra in Broadstairs and Asda in Canterbury has now widened to a record 4.2p on a litre of unleaded petrol. Motorists buying fuel at Asda Canterbury pay 128.7p a litre whereas Tesco Extra in Broadstairs charges 133.9p.   The deal for motorists near Dover is not much better with the cheapest unleaded petrol available costing 132.9 a litre. Businesses will consider this surcharge to be an unwelcome addition to their costs at a time when East Kent firms are recovering from recession. Our Chamber members would rather spend the money on employing more staff than adding to the profits of rich oil companies and well-resourced supermarket chains. “You get what you pay for” may be true in many commercial transactions, but when it comes to petrol in the Thanet & Dover districts it appears that you get between 3% and 4% less for your hard-earned money.

8. Governors Resigned

One Kent school was in the news last week when it might have preferred to have been mentioned in dispatches for its nativity play, successes on the sports field or closure due to icy conditions. The inclement weather surrounding Sherwood Park Community Primary School in Tunbridge Wells resulted from the resignation of all the governors, including Chairman Reverend Brian Stephen Senior, following the revelation that £6,000 had been spent on a leaving party for the outgoing headteacher. Many readers will sympathize with Kent County Councillor James Tansley’s criticism of the school for allegedly frivolous spending when budgets for teaching materials and essential maintenance are under such pressure. But, we must remember that school and college governors are in the main some of the most community minded individuals in our society. They offer their free time, skills and experience without reward for the benefit of young people in their area. It is quite right that the governors should be held to account for the bodies over which they preside, but we must be careful not to make these voluntary posts so uncomfortable that suitable candidates will not come forward to fill the many vacancies available. There is a case for business expertise to be better represented and for governors to receive more training in exercising scrutiny, but this Chamber believes that it would be quite wrong to vilify any governing body for mistakes of judgment honestly made and openly accepted. Kent County Council has fulfilled its duty in highlighting an unacceptable situation and the governors in question have made the honourable decision to resign; good decision-making on both counts. As for the future, it might well be the case that these chastised governors are now better informed, more enlightened and potentially more useful than was previously the case. The private sector tends to recognise experience gained from past error when it can add significant value to future decision-making, as Richard Branson and James Caan would undoubtedly verify. Of course, such scandals and criticisms are off the menu as we celebrate the business-minded practices and good financial management of the following schools and colleges in East Kent:   Astor College, Barton Junior School, Cliftonville Primary School, Dover College, Dover Federation for the Arts, Dover Grammar School for Boys, Dover Grammar School for Girls, East Kent College, Hartsdown Technology College, Marlowe Academy, Ripplevale School Ltd, Shatterlocks Nursery and Infant School, Saint Lawrence College and White Cliffs Primary College for the Arts.

9. Seven Oak Dragons

The provision of a Park & Ride facility at Manston Airport to take shoppers to Westwood Cross Shopping Centre should help to relieve some of the congestion as we approach the busiest season for retailers. Among the crowds looking for presents at WH Smith, Primark, Marks & Spencer and other blue-chip brand outlets will be a temporary stall selling books about the adventures of two young dragons; Oak who loves balloons and Acorn who loves football. Local writer Richard Hill has created some delightful tales in the best traditions of children’s literature. Young minds will delight at the characters, gentle story lines and beautiful illustrations. There is not a mention of X-Factor, Strictly Come Dancing or the National Lottery, but Ramsgate and Broadstairs harbour do feature as Oak and Acorn are joined by the green dragon Kelpy who loves to recycle and Nano who is unique as a skateboarding dragon. Let’s admit it; you don’t see many skateboarding dragons these days. Signed first editions will be available at Westwood Cross Christmas Market from 17 ^th to 24^th December 2012.

10. Thanet Air Show

June 2013.  Organised and administered by Chamber member AS Enterprises, the show will present prime opportunities to showcase local companies before an audience of key corporate decision-makers as well as the general public. With up to 18,000 visitors expected, promotional packages cover a wide variety of budgets from a mention in one of the many booklets and brochures to prime location banners and the possibility of sponsoring the Red Arrows or the Battle of Britain Memorial Flight. The Chamber has already received enquiries from the owners of Messerschmitts keen to provide a display on the day. We will update Chamber members on developments but all readers are invited to contact Managing Director Angela Sutton direct by email to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.. Anyone who doubts Angela’s ability to manage such a large scale event should take note of the words of her former colleague in the RAF, Wing Commander Shaw, who states: “ Angie is a superb event and project manager and able to work within a complicated multi-stakeholder environment. Ever the consummate professional, her attention to detail, communication skills and work ethic enhances any venture she is associated with.”  It doesn’t get much better than that.

11. How Are We Doing?

The latest unemployment statistics show a significant improvement in Kent and Medway as a whole with just the districts of Ashford and Thanet showing a growth in unemployment since November last year. The star performer in job creation over the past twelve months is Tunbridge Wells where the jobless total has fallen by 11.5%. Although just two fewer people in Sevenoaks have registered as unemployed since last month, the annual decline in unemployment of 8.5% must be encouraging news for the butlers, chauffeurs and posh people in the leafy lanes of one of the South East’s more wealthy areas. It can be argued that the economy of East Kent is heading in the right direction. The rate of annual increase in unemployment in Thanet has halved from the +9.8% revealed in the figures for August 2012 to the present +4.8% just 3 months later. In the same period, the Dover District has shown some remarkable gains from an annual increase of a whopping +10.8% to a decline registered for November 2012 of 0.8%, Exactly 100 more people in Dover, Deal, Sandwich and the surrounding villages are going home now with a wage packet than was the case last August. For East Kent, the figures show that compared to three months previously, 390 more adults in Canterbury, Dover, Shepway and Thanet are facing tidings of comfort and joy this Christmas with a job. If the current trend continues, then it is likely that early in the New Year the official employment figures for Kent should show significant annual job gains in every district in the county.

12. Give Us The Facts

Unemployment in East Kent

Data reproduced under the terms of the Click-use License no. C2010000980. All rights reserved.

13. My First Home

Our good friends at the Thanet Gazette are looking for candidates to take part in their My First Home feature. Chamber members accepting the invitation will have the opportunity to mention their business and perhaps generate some publicity for their company as well as for their judicious choice of a home. If you would like to take part, you will need to send a few sentences about your first home describing when you moved in, the price of the property, what is your dream home and so on. Shy retiring wall flowers who prefer to read newspapers rather than be in them may not have the same enthusiasm as others who will relish the opportunity to see themselves in print. For more details, email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. with the subject line “Mt First Home”. If you prefer to telephone, call 01843 578150.

14. EuroKent Office To Let

New Chamber member Marine Software Ltd has a small office to let at EuroKent Business Park. Operations Manager Mark Jennings informs us that: “ It is important to highlight that as this office is under a rateable value of £6,000, the 2012/2013 business rates are zero and I believe the government also extended in the Autumn statement the zero extension for business rates the 2013/2014 tax year.” Located at 3 Ozengell Place CT12 6PB, this modern ground floor office of 625 square feet is available for an annual rent of £7,500 plus a management charge of £825. All prices are subject to VAT. There is parking on site with easy access for vehicles of all sizes. The property is rated for use as an office, for light industry and for storage, i.e. B1, B2 and B8 respectively. For more information, contact Mark direct by telephone to 01304 840009 or by email to email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. with the subject line “Office at EuroKent”.

15. The Power Of Senior Management

The demise of Comet last month with the potential loss of over 6,000 jobs has thrown into sharp perspective the issue of gift vouchers, guarantees and customer rights: all of which are pertinent to the account recently received from one Chamber member. We have our doubts about this story, but we leave it to readers to judge for themselves. As our venerable company owner put it: “It was my wife’s idea or ‘senior management’, as I call her. She said we needed a new toaster. She was very specific. ‘I want a good quality one, mind and not one of those cheap, flimsy jobs that don’t last five minutes’. Wishing to preserve domestic harmony and mindful that my future breakfasts could be in jeopardy, I was determined to get the best one I could find. Accordingly, somewhat frazzled, I went to the posh department store. I asked for the best one in stock and was directed towards their highest price toaster on display. When I asked the store manager if it was genuinely of the quality required, he told me: ‘It should be, sir. We can offer you a lifetime guarantee’. Reassured, I parted with my £125 and took it home to my grateful wife who then kept me in toast for the next six months. Then disaster struck. The toaster gave up the ghost with a spectacular flash that menaced the marmalade and could have burnt the house to cinders. Before my dearest could say the word, I flew out of the house with the offending article and receipt and took it directly to the store. The same manager was on duty. Indignant at the failure, I said to him. ‘Look, I paid £125 for this toaster and now it has failed after just a few months. It’s just not good enough’. ‘He looked at me for a moment and then said: ’Ah yes, I remember. It was last January, wasn’t it?’ ‘Yes it was,’ I said, ‘perhaps a little more than six months, but you told me that it had a lifetime guarantee’. He replied slowly and calmly: ‘Ah yes sir, but on the day you bought it, you did look terribly sick.’”

© David Foley 16^th December 2012

Your Business Bulletin from Thanet & East Kent Chamber

Thanet & East Kent Insider

22^nd September 2012   Issue No.: 194

1. Renewable Profits, Renewable Energy

On Friday, 19^th October 2012, the Thanet & East Kent Chamber will be welcoming a group of French companies eager to establish links with firms in East Kent. The day will begin at 1040 hrs with a welcome followed by formal presentations, lunch and networking sessions and is scheduled to end at around 1530 hrs. The French delegation of 18 will feature key decision-makers from forward-looking companies in Northern France plus officials representing over 600 French firms with commercial interests in the UK. The sessions represent an ideal opportunity to explore new markets in the following sectors: renewable energy, maritime services, security systems, fire protection, offshore maintenance, electrical engineering, mechanical engineering, logistics & transport, buildings maintenance, warehousing, commercial property, industrial equipment and business research. The price of £20 for Chamber members includes a buffet lunch and refreshments at the Sandwich venue. To reserve your place, email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. with the subject line “Renewable Profits 19 October 2012”.

2. Do I Have To Speak French To Attend?

In common with most senior figures in French business, our visiting delegates speak English. Interpreters will be available if required, but we expect that they will probably not be necessary unless there are particularly technical terms to be discussed. There will be ample time to meet fellow managers, directors and company owners from East Kent. We expect the day to provide a valuable opportunity to generate new business.

3. Media Watch

The Chamber has again been featured in the press, on television and on the radio in support of members and their commercial interests. The overwhelming backing of members for the development of Manston Airport was reflected in the ITV Meridian News broadcast available at http://www.itv.com/news/meridian/2012-09-04/could-reshuffle-indicate-expansion-at-manston/  Click on the title “What future for Kent’s airports?” and fast forward to 1:55.

4. Village Shop Wanted

The East Kent Business Advice Clinic operated by the Thanet & East Kent Chamber in liaison with the Dover District Chamber of Commerce has been approached by an investor looking to buy a village shop in East Kent, ideally with a Post Office; but all options will be considered. Any readers with news of a suitable property for sale or lease are invited to send details to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. with the subject line “Village Shop For Sale”.

5. Commercial Energy Costs

We are grateful to Martyn Young of Zero Trace Procurement, tel: 01227 475506, for his expert commentary on power and gas prices which he summarises as “We may start to see some seasonal increases, but nothing dramatic.” Despite a 7% rise last month, contract prices for power are still cheaper than a year ago, The front month contract price for gas rose by twice the annual UK inflation rate in August alone suggesting that commercial gas users might have to tighten their belts, although the annual increase remains steady at 7%. Sustained rises in oil prices reflect increasing demand from a recovering US economy supported by uncertainty in Iran and reductions in supply from the North Sea. Prices for Brent Crude Oil rose by around 18% in the two months from 1^st July to 31^st August 2012. Our good friends at E.ON provided the data for the table below.

6. The Facts About Energy Costs

7. Active Listening Boosts Margins

Following his previous contributions to the Thanet & East Kent Insider, Philip Tilston of chamber member Polylink Solutions, tel: 07875 924191, has now submitted the sixth in his series of management advice texts. Entitled simply “Listening”, Phil gives us his view of the commercial advantages of being an active listener. The wisdom of the ages is apparent in Phil’s conclusion, which quotes an equation about our ears and mouth that is often attributed to Epictetus (55 –135 AD), who also gave us “Keep silence for the most part, and speak only when you must, and then briefly.” Epictetus had a point and so does Phil, who tells us: “Communication is the exchange and flow of information and ideas from one person to another.  A critical component for effective communication is listening. Yes, listening as opposed to merely hearing. This is easier said than done. People speak at 100-175 words per minute but are capable of listening intelligently at 600-800 words per minute. As a result, it is easy for part of our minds to drift while others speak and believe that we really are listening.  Active listening however involves listening for the content of the message, listening for the feelings of the speaker, watching the speaker’s body language, understanding the speaker’s point of view and replaying back to the speaker your understanding of what he said. This requires your full concentration. For example you should not be thinking about what you will say when the person before you finishes speaking, as that will detract from your listening. Replaying back to the speaker your understanding of what he has said ensures that there is a consistency of understanding between you. This is especially important when dealing with employees at remote locations or people of different cultures. That overseas customer you have been trying to secure may have a different understanding of what you each agreed. Be aware of any bias or pre-set positions you have, we all have them and being aware will help prevent them from becoming obstacles. Try the steps above in one or two meetings and you will be surprised at the difference. Remember also that we have one mouth and two ears; they should be used in that proportion.” Thank you, Philip. All advice gratefully received.

8. Speak Less, Sell More

If we are to promote our East Kent businesses, we need to sell more. Successful sales staff know that they should tailor their presentations to the needs of their customers. As Philip Tilston has indicated above and as any car showroom sales person knows, it is not wise to lecture full blast the first customers who walk through the door in the morning. Rather than regale them with stories of how wonderful the used cars are, a successful seller will begin with some open questions such as: “Is the car for work or leisure?”  “Are you looking for a hatchback or a two door?” “Do you prefer petrol or diesel?” Carefully avoiding any questions that might produce a “no” in the response, the high achieving sales person will allow the customer to speak at length and enjoy the vast majority of the dialogue. When the customer has finished his detailed account of the difficulties in convincing his mother-in-law that a 1956 Bentley would not fit in his garage, the seller might say: “We have one model that matches your needs. It has a 1.6 litre engine which will give you a comfortable drive on the motorway when you go to your monthly meeting in Birmingham. It has a petrol engine which you prefer. It is an automatic as you wanted. It has completed just 5,475 miles, well under the 10,000 you stipulated. It is blue, your wife’s favourite colour, and the interior upholstery is in black, which your mother-in-law said she liked on the Bentley. It is within your budget at £8,495. Let’s take a test drive now in the Renault Clio Expression 1.6VVT which is parked on our forecourt.” Reducing your sales patter to the key decision-based issues is a mark of the star salesman as well as the star actor. Michael Caine revealed one of the secrets of success on the BBC Breakfast With Frost Show in 2000 when he related a brief conversation on his first visit to Hollywood many years previously when he had met John Wayne in the lobby of a Beverly Hills hotel. With his helicopter parked outside and a large black cowboy Stetson on his head, Hollywood’s all-time top money-making star said: “Now listen, if you want to be a big star, talk low, talk slow and don’t say too much”. This must be good advice to any sales person, although the Stetson is optional. Anyone interested in the Renault described above should contact DP Lead & Sons, tel: 01304 824155, where the vehicle is available for sale at their premises in River, DoverKent CT16 3AB. Other Chamber members in the motor trade with a reputation for quality sales include BSB (GB) Ltd of St Peters tel: 01943 604955; East Kent Components of Dover tel: 01304 204697; Kent Car Craft of Broadstairs tel: 01843 587376; Lakeside Commercials of Sandwich tel: 01304 620318; Land Rover Solutions of Canterbury tel: 01227 719191; RP Greaves of Dover tel: 01304 205427 and Walmer Adamson Motors of Deal tel: 01304 381300.

9. East Kent Funding Fair

Chamber member Thanet Community Networks has kindly forwarded details of the Moneywise: 2012 East Kent Funding Fair to be held at St George’s C of E Foundation School on Friday 26^th October 2012. Among the speakers will be the Chamber Co-President, Laura Sandys MP, and Kate Sawdy of the Big Lottery Fund. Aimed at the voluntary sector in East Kent, delegates will hear of the many funding opportunities available and will receive guidance on a wide range of third sector issues. Tickets cost £10 and are available from the website at http://www.thanetcommunitynetworks.org.uk/forthcoming-events-training/.

10. Planning Rules To Be Relaxed

Unnecessary red tape received some sharp criticism from Local Government Secretary, Rt Hon Eric Pickles MP earlier this month when he announced a series of measures“to support locally-led sustainable development”. Chamber members will recall that Kent County Council Leader Cllr Paul Carter has often commented that 25 years ago just two certificates were required before building work could commence. Today there are at least 25 official permissions required, which inevitably discourages investors to build or renovate premises at a time when construction is sorely needed to get the property market moving. Eric Pickles has stated that the National Planning Policy Framework published by the government last March reduced the government’s central planning guidance “from 1,000 pages to just 50”. He has acknowledged that complex developments take time to bring to fruition and he is extending the planning permission for such projects. Not everyone welcomes the proposed changes which Eric Pickles claims are targeted at recalcitrant local authorities that delay development to the detriment of the local economy. Hilary Benn MP, the Shadow Communities Secretary, addressed the National Housing Federation conference in Birmingham last week and pointed to the 400,000 houses that already have planning permission but have yet to be built. Businesses in East Kent will be hoping that planning reforms will bring developments at Farthingloe, Western Heights and Manston a step closer. Make up your own mind by listening to Eric Pickles at http://news.bbc.co.uk/democracylive/hi/house_of_commons/newsid_9749000/9749366.stm

11. Kent Breakfast

We are grateful to Andy Rayfield of Chamber member Maxim PR, tel:  01892 513033, for drawing our attention to the breakfast meeting sponsored by Visit Kent and Produced in Kent scheduled for Wednesday, 24^th October 2012 at Penshurst Place and for 14^th November 2012 at Brogdale, near Faversham. Hotels, B&Bs, pubs, cafes and any Kent business serving breakfasts will be invited to join a new scheme aimed at promoting the county’s produce. The aim is to “encourage the breakfast makers of the county to ensure that at least 60% of the ingredients used are sourced from within Kent.”  The campaign is funded by Defra’s Rural Development Programme for England. For more details, see http://www.visitkentbusiness.co.uk/index/training-support/kent-breakfast/ or telephone Ruth Wood at Visit Kent, tel: 01227 812900. As the initiative is supported by Kent Downs and Marshes, we might expect lamb chops to become a new Kent breakfast favourite.

12. Thanet Strategy For Economic Growth

Thanet District Council (TDC) has drafted a strategy for economic growth in the district. The Chamber is preparing a submission on behalf of companies in Thanet and is liaising with members accordingly. Members may submit their views to the Chamber by email in confidence to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. with the subject line: “TDC Strategy”. The full text of the draft strategy can be found on the website at http://www.thanet.gov.uk/business/regeneration/thanet_regeneration__board/strategy_for_economic_growth.aspx where there is also the opportunity to send your response direct to TDC on or before 19^th October 2012. The Chamber welcomes this initiative. As the largest business support organisation in the district, we look forward to working with TDC to develop a more favourable climate for businesses trading in East Kent.

13. KCC Budget Proposals

We are grateful to Anne Charman, of Kent County Council, for drawing our attention to the KKC draft budget for 2013/2014 which is available on the website at http://www.kent.gov.uk/your_council/council_spending/budget_consultation.aspx. Introduced by KCC Leader Paul Carter in a video clip, the budget takes into account a reduction in expenditure of £300 million in the three years to 31 March 2013 which perhaps explains the title of “Facing the challenge”. Responses to the draft will be welcomed up until the deadline of 1^st November 2012.

14. Household Waste Changes

KCC completed its survey of views on Household Waste Recycling Centres in Kent earlier this year. As a result, new operating procedures will come into force from 1^st October 2012. Respondents to the KCC survey numbered 3,499; 1,400 of these were on paper, 2.056 were received on-line and 43 detailed submissions were sent from councils, contractors and other agencies.  Top of the list of concerns in Kent with 546 comments was fly-tipping.

[See page 26, Household Waste Recycling Centres: Public Consultation Report; KCC April 2012] The decision to close the Waste Recycling plants at Richborough and Hawkinge was confirmed in March 2012, despite some spirited local opposition. Other measures that will be in operation from next month include a £5 charge for accepting a maximum of two car tyres at specified centres, construction waste not to exceed “one average car boot load per visit” or 90 kgs, no commercial vehicles, vans or horse boxes to be allowed in the centres and trailers limited to 1m³ capacity. There are special arrangements for the disabled. A useful list of Frequently Asked Questions is available at http://www.kent.gov.uk/environment_and_planning/recycling_and_rubbish/ways_to_recycle/waste_and_recycling_centres/operating_policies/frequently_asked_questions.aspx . This guide also gives the dates for the temporary closure of the HerneBay and Ashford Waste Recycling Centres.

15. What Can I Do With Commercial Waste Now?

The reforms to household waste disposal centres have been designed to prevent their use by traders masquerading as householders, which explains why vans will no longer be allowed to enter the sites. Flytipping can attract a fine of up £50,000 with a 5 year term of imprisonment for serious abusers. There is a simple solution to the disposal of commercial waste and that is to use fully licensed waste management companies in East Kent which are experts at providing legal, cost-effective strategies. You may even find that your waste has a commercial value. For more details, contact one or more of the following specialists: TW Services of Sandwich tel: 01843 821500; MPL Waste Management of Margate tel: 01843 232584; Clearers South East of Aylesham tel: 01304 840283 and Brazil Brothers of Broadstairs tel: 01843 864162. These companies have a comprehensive range of complementary services. For instance, Brazil Brothers offers tree surgery and garden care.

16. Minimum Wage

The National Minimum Wage was introduced on 1 April 1999 at a rate for adults of £3.60 per hour. It currently stands at £6.08 per hour but will rise next month by 11p per hour. Company directors, volunteers, prisoners, monks and nuns fall outside the legislation: but for almost anybody else, the National Minimum Wage applies, regardless of what any employment contract might state. There are six criminal offences resulting from non-compliance, which in serious cases can lead to a trial in the Crown Court and a potentially unlimited fine. The new rates applicable from 1^st October 2012 are: £6.19 per hour for workers aged 21 years or more; £4.98 per hour for workers aged 18 – 20; £3.68 per hour for workers above school leaving age but under 18 years old; £2.65 per hour for apprentices.

17. Evolution In East Kent

Branded clothing is the mainstay of Jay Sutton’s business in Margate. In an email to the Chamber Jay writes that Evolution Branded Clothing is: “A no nonsense type of company. We will help anyone where we can. We aim to deliver a fantastic job using good quality materials, a good turnaround time at a fair price.” He puts customer service at the top of his agenda and states: “We work silly hours and have never let a client down”. Ably assisted by Joanne Sharp, Jay’s services and products include T-shirt printing, Embroidery and Promotional Items. He adds: “We are able to produce badges, stickers, key rings, umbrellas, caps, mugs, towels and bags.” Evolution also offers keen prices on a wire binding service and booklet stapling.  Numbering the NHS, University of Kent Union, CanterburyCollege and the Turner Contemporary among his happy customers, Jay is looking to expand into new markets and will doubtlessly want to meet our French visitors on 19^th October. To find out more about Evolution Branded Clothing, give Jay a call, telephone 01843 446459. Other Chamber members keen to assist with branded items include Trews Workwear of Ramsgate, telephone 01843 599466, and The Embroided and Printed Clothing Company of Margate, telephone 01843 209555.

18. Secrets Of The Convent

We are grateful to one Chamber member who has shared her experiences of her early education at a convent school in East Kent. We have our doubts about this story, but we leave it to our readers to judge for themselves. As she put it: “It was quite a strict school. They treated us reasonably well, although we got the occasional slap if we did something that was deemed to be blasphemous or disrespectful to the principal or Mother Superior. In my class there was one spirited girl, Rebecca, who rebelled against the regime at every opportunity. One of our form teachers, Sister Maria, lived in constant fear of eternal damnation and did her level best to pass that on to us, with little success, especially with Rebecca. One morning, we came down for our mid-morning break in the refectory. For once, Sister Maria was not in her accustomed place near the door with her beady eye on us. Instead, at one end of the long refectory table there was pile of bananas with a note in Sister Maria’s handwriting that read: “Take one banana each only. God is watching you.” Right at the other end of the table was a selection of chocolate bars that had been left over from the previous day’s harvest thanksgiving service. Rebecca was the first to reach these. She picked up three and hid them quickly in her satchel. As we looked at her with reproachful glances, she said: “Take any amount you like. God is watching the bananas.”

© David Foley 22^nd September 2012

Your Business Bulletin from Thanet & East Kent Chamber

Thanet & East Kent Insider

2^nd September 2012   Issue No.: 193

1. Thanet Earth Update

As anyone with a keen interest in East Kent business knows, Thanet Earth is the name given to the group of large glasshouses on the outskirts of Birchington. Less well-known is the success of this investment in Thanet. Teething problems associated with the first phase of development are now firmly in the past. In an exclusive interview with the Thanet & East Kent Chamber, Managing Director Ian Craig outlined the recent progress made and detailed plans for the future. Such is the confidence of Thanet Earth in its operations on site, that it has committed £17 million to building a fourth glasshouse to supply the increasing demand from its customers. Work on the groundworks has already begun. On completion, the Thanet Earth complex will represent an investment of £120 million and employ 700 workers. Attention to staffing and human resources has been a key element in the success with no worker on minimum wages and much care given to the training and well-being of staff.

2. Why Do We Need Thanet Earth?

 It is in the UK’s best interests to produce more food domestically.  We note from a government report that: “In 2009, 27 countries together accounted for 90% of UK food supply. Just under half of this (49.5%) was supplied domestically from within the UK.” [Food Statistics Pocketbook 2011, Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs]. This means in effect that from a position in 2008 when the UK supplied 52% of its food, now we import over half. This has strategic and security implications for the UK as well as important environmental considerations relating to the food miles involved. Given comparatively favourable weather and a unique location that is the closest in the UK to European markets, East Kent farmers, market gardeners and hydroponic growers are in a good position to reverse this trend and to provide a solution to the problem of domestic food supply.

3. But Aren’t These Jobs All Part-Time?

Full-time staff are an essential part of the Thanet Earth operation, as indeed are full-time core staff in our farms and at other food producers. To function successfully, part-time staff are equally essential. There is a widespread misunderstanding of the nature of employment in the UK food industry where part-time work is common due to the seasonal and cyclical nature of the sector. The same source at Defra quoted above states: “In 2010, 51% of food sector jobs were part time.”

4. Is Thanet Earth Part Of A Group?

Thanet Earth Marketing is part of the Paddock Wood based Fresca Group which can trace its origins to 1874 and the establishment M&W Mack Limited. The current group encompasses 17 fresh produce businesses which together posted a turnover of £390 million in the 12 months to 29 April 2011. Thanet Earth Marketing’s Managing Director made no made mention of his own role in the remarkable transformation at Barrow Man Road. The Group Chairman and Chief Executive, Chris Mack, did. In his published 2011 Review, he reserved “particular congratulations” for Thanet Earth Marketing and stated: “This business has turned a £4.4m loss into an operating profit that’s approaching £1m this year – a remarkable achievement and a welcome piece of good news”. We understand that the latest figures yet to be published show a continuation of the success story. This may help to explain why on 7^th August 2012 it was announced that Thanet Earth Marketing’s Managing Director Ian Craig has been appointed Deputy Group Managing Director.

5. Computer Virus

Chamber member Thanet Earth may maintain a virus-free environment in its greenhouses, but can you say the same about your IT systems? We have received reports from some Chamber members of particularly nasty bugs infiltrating their computers which have caused disruption to their daily operations.  Just about everyone with the cheapest desktop will have some sort of anti-virus programme, but commercial users and those who trade over the Internet require something more robust to protect their systems. The providers of the main free anti-virus programmes recommend that companies should upgrade to the professional software. This is hardly a surprise perhaps, but when contacting Avast, one of the market leaders, this Chamber was indeed surprised to learn that in the previous 30 days, Avast had detected 504,441 infected websites and claimed to have prevented 100,333,575 users from visiting them. This represents a lot of idle teenagers, disillusioned cold war scientists and anti-business activists doing their best to nobble your IT systems. If you want to get the best advice on preventing an IT disaster on your communications,  you might like to contact one of the following specialists who can give you expert guidance on how to remain unnobbled (a new word, you read it here first): A1 IT Web Design of Broadstairs tel: 01843 604664; Auratek of Broadstairs tel: 0845 652 2438; Coastal Data Systems Ltd of Ramsgate tel: 01843 823324; ICC Services Limited of Deal tel: 01304 365200; InCloudOne Ltd of Sandwich tel: 01732 447859; Simtech Computer Systems Ltd of Margate tel: 01843 297652 and Sota Solutions of Sittingbourne tel: 01795 413500.

6. Healthy Workers, Healthy Profits

We are grateful to our friends at Dover Counselling Centre, tel: 01304 204 123, for informing us that; “175 million working days are lost due to ill health every year. The Health and Safety Executive estimates that one in five days lost working days (36 million) are due to occupational ill health. This costs the nation around £13 billion a year.” If you wish to protect your staff from flu this winter and minimize the disruption to your business or want to organise health checks for yourself and family, you might like to consider the bespoke services of offer atThe Spencer Private Hospital in Margate tel: 01843 234555 or Ashford tel: 01233 616201.

7. Celebrating Manufacturers In East Kent

At a time when the country’s finances are under particular pressure, we need to support our domestic manufacturers. These are the firms where workers get their hands soiled making things. There is a respectable argument that it was our manufacturers who put the “Great” in Great Britain. Our East Kent factories are again well-placed to export to help restore our balance of payments and to reduce our national debt. One Chamber member, less enthralled by the Premier League and Saturday night television than many, has contacted the Chamber with the following comment: “We do not value people who make things, people who manufacture and sell to the world. We value people who can kick a ball or sing a song. There is something fundamentally wrong with this. We need to reorientate our aims and re-educate our desires.” He has a point. In East Kent, we are blessed with some excellent examples of busy companies which take in raw materials and send out finished goods. Here is a selection: Claridge Upholstery of Margate tel: 01843 290855; East Kent Coatings Limited of Margate tel: 01843 293343; Flambeau Europlast Ltd of Ramsgate tel: 01843 854000; Flying Fish Hovercraft of Sandwich tel: 01304 619820; Hornby Hobbies Ltd of Margate tel: 01843 233500; London Fancy Box Co. Ltd of Dover tel: 01304 209926; Major Fabrications (Kent) Ltd of Deal tel: 01304 614541; Premier Framework Displays of Canterbury tel: 01227 710104; Shepherd Neame of Faversham tel: 01795 532206; Silent Gliss Ltd of Broadstairs tel: 01843 863571; TV One Ltd of Margate tel: 01843 873300 and Wantsum Brewery Ltd of Canterbury tel 08450 405980.

8. Discovery Park Limited

The Thanet & East Kent Insider issue no, 191 of 4^th August 2012 gave detailed information on the background and current professional interests of the new owners of the Discovery Park. The purchase of this prime site in Sandwich from Pfizer was completed at 5.00 pm on 31^st July 2012. Since then, two of the three main board directors, Chris Musgrave and Trevor Cartner, have been joined by Jeffrey Hind to form Discovery Park Facilities Management Ltd. Jeffrey Hind remains on the board of Wynyard Facilities Management and Wynyard Food and Catering Limited and will no doubt be using his considerable experience to make a success of catering, food and room hire facilities on the 297 acre site. The challenge to local companies will be to match and if possible surpass the price, quality and service that Jeffrey Hind has come to expect from suppliers which must inevitably include those where he sits as a current board member; Beamish Mary Inn, The Captain Cook Brewery, Grey Horse Ltd, Consett Ale Works, Beer Warehouse, Brewer & Firkin (Hartlepool) and the delightfully named Slurp Ltd. The Managing Director of the Discovery Park is Paul Barber, a genial Yorkshire man, yes they do exist, with an enviable record of success. Curiously early in his career he worked in the estates department of Kent County Council. A graduate in Land Management from the University of Reading, Paul Barber worked asa Development Manager for the DTI before becoming the Regional Director of English Partnerships for Yorkshire and Humberside. He then became the Executive Director of Yorkshire Forward for twelve months before spending six years as Chief Executive of Priority Sites Ltd. Since 2006 he has divided his time between posts as Chief Executive of Strategic Sites Ltd, Director of UK Strategic Partnership Ltd and since July 2011, Managing Director ofWynyard Park Limited. He is justifiably proud of Wynyard’ success in regenerating the former 200 acre Samsung site at Billingham which is now adjoined to an additional 500 acres purchased from Sir John Hall and currently hosts 65 companies supporting 2,000 jobs. That will do nicely, thank you.

9. 30,000 Workers Needed

News has reached the Chamber from the Sector Skills Council (SSC) for the gas, power, waste management and water industries, which is licenced by Government and working under the guidance of the UK Commission for Employment and Skills (UKCES) that:  “Due to an ageing workforce and significant capital expenditure programmes, in particular in new technologies, the gas, power, waste management and water industries, need to recruit and train over 30,000 staff over the next five years. This represents a significant increase in both recruitment and training activity.” If your company is looking for a new direction, if you are thinking of investing in training courses or if your son or daughter is wondering about how the recession will influence their career path, there may be some value in considering the gas, water, power and waste industries. They are all providing products and services in demand now and for the foreseeable future.

10. Have Mobile, Will Buy

News has reached the Chamber from the Interactive Media in Retail Group (IMRG) that the percentage of UK online sales made through a mobile device could reach 1 in 5 by Christmas 2012, with the percentage of site visits through the channel at just under 1 in 3. Surveys of 20 top retailers including Debenhams, JD Sports, John Lewis, Marks & Spencer, Matalan and Millets have revealed that in the second quarter of this year the percentage of sales through mobile devices rose to 11.6%, up from 8.2% in the first quarter. Since the beginning of 2010 the penetration of mobile in terms of UK e-retail sales has soared from just 0.4% of e-retail sales in Q1 2010 to 11.6% in the last quarter. Site visits through mobile devices also rose significantly in the second quarter, reaching 21.1% of visits to UK e-retail websites, up from 16.4% in the previous quarter. In a press release of 30^th August 2012, Chris Webster of Capgemini said: “The second decade of this century will be viewed in history as the decade when the mobile device became the point of access to digital services. This has happened very quickly for commerce services and by the end of this year, 20% of all digital commerce transactions will be completed on mobile devices.” IMRG stated last January that: “E-retail now accounts for 17% of the total UK retail market and is likely to increase with the rise of mobile commerce and following high sales of tablet computers in the last year.” That prediction seems to have materialised. One Chamber member has commented bluntly: “The lesson for East Kent retailers is clear: ‘Join in or ship out’. However, perhaps our good friends at Value Retail have a solution as the item below shows

11. Best Practice

Not all retailers have fallen victim to the rise in Internet shopping. We have often reported in the past on the example set to our retailers by BicesterVillage near Oxford, and its parent company, Value Retail Limited. Whereas our High Street shops have suffered in recent years, BicesterVillage near Oxford has gone from strength to strength. In 2011 Value Retail’s sales increased by 20%, driven in part by Chinese tourists who spend £250 each on average, an increase of more than three times since 2009. In an article in Women’s Wear Daily (WWD), ‘”the bible of fashion”, Value Retail’s Chief Executive Desiree Boiler claims: “In Europe, we’ve always been number one in terms of productivity per square foot”. The power of world class brands is a significant element in this success. Boiler continues: “Chinese love Prada, Gucci and Burberry, but there’s a broader curiosity now. For instance, in Value Retail’s flagship BicesterVillage mall in England, Alexander McQueen is popular.” Value Retail owns nine villages in Europe; all within one hour’s travelling time of a centre of population. Margate, Ramsgate and Dover would have to improve their rail journey times from London to attract the interest of the company. Continuing expansion will be assured next year when the first Chinese outlet is due to open, a 600,000 square foot development to be known as SuzhouVillage. Situated around 50 miles from Shanghai, Value Retail estimates that it is within one hour’s drive of 40 million people.  A key target will be fashion goods for Chinese men. In contrast to their Western counterparts, Chinese men spend more than double the amount on clothes as Chinese women. Boiler ascribes this to different cultural habits. “They behave differently from Europeans and Americans where [menswear] is usually purchased by women for men”. Any British men reading this who buy their own socks might not realise that they are in a minority group.

12. Goodbye Thanet College, Hello East Kent College

ThanetCollege maintains that it is proud of its past and is very much looking forward to a bright future under its new title and branding as EastKentCollege. The resurgence in the last few years of Thanet’s largest training organisation has led to some ground-breaking changes that have made the college more business-friendly and better prepared to meet the current and future needs of employers. A new range of Higher Education courses complement the PeterJonesEnterpriseAcademy. They will be joined next year by the £6 million Centre for Environmental Technology. It’s all systems go at the Broadstairs campus and time to update your database, mobile or old-fashioned filofax personal organiser with the new name: East Kent College, Ramsgate Road, Broadstairs, Kent CT10 1PN, tel: 01843 605040. 

13. North South Divide

Our media outlets are currently much engaged in covering the weeks before the general election in the USA where voters will in all probability face a choice between the Republican Candidate Mitt Rooney and the incumbent Democratic Party President Barack Obama. It was in 1858 that another Republican candidate for a Senate seat made a speech in Springfield, Illinois in which he said: “A house divided against itself cannot stand.” That person was Abraham Lincoln.  He lost that particular election but of course later became US President. He was talking at the time of the differences between the North and South of his country.  On the same day last week that we learned that the new BayPoint Club in Sandwich has recruited a chef from George Blanc's restaurant of 3 Michelin stars to serve gourmet food to the refined palates of discerning executives, we read that in Doncaster a fish & chip shop has produced the world's largest serving of cod & chips which at 97lbs had to be lifted from the fryer with two gardening forks. Now, what does that tell us about modern Britain?

14. Joint Venture Strategy

Some readers may have heard a variant of the following narrative as it has a noble history and like a fine wine can mature with age. Trusting to the innate intelligence, outstanding intellectual abilities and discreet tastes of our readers, we bring this account to you nonetheless in the knowledge that some Chamber members are currently actively considering joint ventures. Our tale begins in the early years of Mrs Thatcher’s administration when workers were being urged to form their own companies in order to grow the UK economy.  It was not only workers who heeded the call. One chicken, brighter than most, decided that he would like to branch out on his own account rather than keep producing for the sole benefit of his master, the farmer. After a serious feasibility study and careful consideration of the marketing mix of price, place, promotion and product, he decided on what he wanted to sell.  Unable to launch the company on his own, he approached his friend the pig with his idea. “Look, Mr Pig, we are on the outskirts of town on a direct route to the station. Lots of people pass by our field on the way to work in the morning. Why don’t we form a joint venture and offer a cooked English breakfast for sale.” “But what can we give them to eat, Mr Chicken?” asked the pig.  “That’s easy, Mr Pig.”, said the chicken. “We offer them eggs and bacon, the classic English breakfast. My cash projections show that after the initial costs, there will enough profit in two weeks to set us up for years.” “That’s great”, said the pig, “but where do we get the food.” Simple, Mr Pig. That’s the beauty of it. We provide everything, here on the farm. I will produce the eggs and you produce the bacon. “Great”, said the pig, “I wonder why we didn’t make the joint venture before.” After a minute’s quiet reflection, the pig said hesitatingly: “Just a moment, Mr Chicken. You provide the eggs and I provide the bacon. Is that correct?” “Just so”, said the Chicken.” “But if that happens”, said the pig,. “you are fine. But I’m not.” “Well, there are always winners and losers in every transaction”, said the Chicken. “Maybe so, Mr Chicken”, said the pig. “But I don’t think that’s at all fair. You get all the profits and I get annihilated in the process.  I don’t call that a joint venture.” “Oh, you know nothing about business, Mr Pig”, said the chicken, “That is precisely what happens with most joint ventures; now pass me the frying pan”.

© David Foley 2^nd September 2012