Somerset Chamber of Commerce

Chamber
June 2013
SOMERSET
Of Commerce & Industry Ltd
REPRESENTING AND WORKING FOR SOMERSET BUSINESSES
www.somerset-chamber.co.uk
International Trade IS Good for
Somerset
Lead Story
Somerset in Business
Conference
See page 3
Town Chamber
Crewkerne Chamber
news
See page 7
Legal Update
Industry Update
See page 12
2013 Awards
Business Awards
Launched
See page 16
Next Event
Scan this code with
your smartphone to
visit the Chamber
website.
Upcoming Events
See page 19 & 20

Rupert’s Review
You can find the Somerset Chamber of Commerce
on Facebook, LinkedIn and Twitter.
squad are comparatively
inexperienced at this level of
football.
For the second month in
succession, leadership and
management is the theme of
Rupert’s Review. Last month I
discussed the leadership
qualities of Margaret Thatcher
and this month I explore the
management qualities of Gary
Johnson. “Gary WHO?” I hear you cry.
Those readers who love their sport and love their
county will know exactly who Gary Johnson is. He is the
manager of Yeovil Town Football Club who, on a sunny
afternoon on 19 May at Wembley Stadium, got
themselves promoted to the Championship after
overcoming Brentford Football Club. In case you are
thinking “So what!” he is the same manager who got
Yeovil Town promoted to the Football League in 2003 –
something that numerous managers had failed to do,
with promotion again in the 2004/05 season. He also
won the FA Trophy (the minnows’ FA Cup) for the first
time in the Club’s history. Johnson left Yeovil Town to
pursue his career elsewhere, returning just 16 months
ago to lead them to the second tier of English football.
What makes Gary Johnson’s achievements at Yeovil
Town all the more astonishing is that he has had to
work with the smallest playing budget of any of the 24
clubs in the division, thereby having to build a low-cost
team from young professionals (often loaned from
bigger clubs) together with a handful of seasoned pros,
and while a few of them had experience, most of the
Our Patrons
The lesson for business leaders and
employers to be taken from this
Somerset success story is how to
build a real team, that will perform for the manager and
the team-mates every time they go out to play for their
club. It is important to recognise that the team is not
just the players on the pitch (in management speak,
‘customer facing’), but the ‘back room staff’ (football
speak) who, by all working together, can achieve well
beyond the perceived levels of success that any of them
might imagine.
How many of us in business can say, without fear of
contradiction, that the team we lead achieves beyond
our expectations? I can proudly say the team at the
Somerset Chamber does, as demonstrated by the quite
exceptional and inspirational Somerset in Business
Conference that you can be read about on page 3 –
they certainly deserve to be in the Championship of the
Chamber world!
So, “Well Done” and congratulations to Somerset
Chamber members Yeovil Town, who now find
themselves mixing with some of the biggest names in
English football – Nottingham Forest, Leeds United,
Blackburn Rovers and Derby County – all of which have
won the top division of English football, as well as some
famous old clubs such as Bolton Wanderers and
Birmingham City. Along with 23 other managers, Gary
Johnson will be endeavouring to achieve at the highest
level by moulding groups of players into a winning team.
We wish the Club further success and wish Gary well in
taking his management skills to the next level, where
they will be tested to the full. Where next - The Premier
League?
A big thank you to the Patrons of the Somerset Chamber of Commerce, whose continued
support is vital to the growth of the Chamber
FRONT COVER IMAGE COURTESY CHARLES GLOVER PHOTOGRAPHY

International Trade IS Good For Somerset
Somerset’s biggest conference fuels interest
in international trade
Over 270 business people attended this year’s Somerset in
Business Conference on Friday 17 May to hear about the
lucrative opportunities that international trade can bring for
Somerset businesses, both in terms of trading overseas
and in encouraging foreign investment into the county.
Jointly organised by the Somerset Chamber and inward
investment organisation Into Somerset, the conference was
entitled International Trade is Good for Somerset and
organisers welcomed the largest number of delegates in
the event’s six year history.
Watch the SIB 2013 film
Keynote speaker Nick Baird, CEO of UK Trade and
Investment (UKTI), travelled to Somerset as part of UKTI’s
activities around Export Week. In his speech, entitled
‘Britain – Open for Business, Open for Trade, Open for
Investment’ he explained the importance of international
trade for the British economy:
“Trade and investment could not be more important for the
UK than it is at the moment. Because of the measures the
government has had to take to get public debt under
control, domestic demand is inevitably constrained, and if
you can’t go to your domestic market to get growth for your
business, you have to go international. It’s not just a short
term issue about recovery from the crisis of 2008 and
2009, it is a medium term issue of re-balancing the British
economy.”
Baird discussed UKTI’s role in delivering the government’s
targets to double UK exports to £1trillion a year by 2020,
getting another 100,000 UK companies exporting in this
time. This will increase the number of British companies
exporting from one fifth to a quarter by 2020, bringing the
UK in line with the European average.
In addition to sustaining the developed markets, where the
UK has traditionally done well, the emerging markets of the
world represent a significant opportunity. Britain currently
accounts for only 1.2% of their imports, with South West
businesses representing only 6% of UK export activity – so
there is plenty of opportunity for growth, and plenty of help
out there for potential exporters through UKTI and
Chambers of Commerce.
With a more Somerset-focused perspective, Somerset
County Council’s Chief Executive, Sheila Wheeler, stressed
the importance of economic growth in order for the Council
to provide the level of public services that people want in a
vibrant and thriving society. She said this starts locally, with
a need to grow new business, sustain existing business and
attract new investment into Somerset.
Wheeler reiterated that the challenge and opportunity is to
develop trade with fast growing economies globally
including the BRIC countries. For this reason, the Council is
investing time and money into building formal links to
assist in developing relationships with China, which is
expected to be the world’s largest economy by 2016, as
well as welcoming delegations of Chinese people to
Somerset.
Other speakers discussed the emerging markets of India,
Brazil and China in more detail, which are currently some of
the most interesting markets for export, benefiting from
rapidly expanding economies and plenty of liquidity. They
all echoed the importance of understanding the mind-set
and local culture when trading with these countries, which
is again something that UKTI and the Chambers of
Commerce can assist with.
The conference, which was sponsored by EDF Energy,
concluded with a reassuring update on the proposed
Hinkley Point C new nuclear development from Chris
Squires, Lead Supply Chain Engagement Manager for EDF
Energy. Delegates then heard from Remy Roussel, Deputy
Project Director for BYLOR – the preferred bidder for the
Main Civils work – highlighted that significant investment
and supply chain opportunities still exist for the UK and
local supply chain to get involved in the project, both in the
construction and wider services industries.
Summing up the event, Rupert Cox, CEO of the Somerset
Chamber says, “The Somerset in Business Conference
continues to be the key business event of the Somerset
business calendar. We are extremely grateful to sponsors
EDF Energy and the 30 businesses that exhibited at the
conference, whose combined support enables us to put on
such a high calibre event. The quality of the speakers this
year was exceptional with representation from across the
globe proving that international trade IS good for
Somerset.”
Find out more & register for the Hinkley Supply Chain at:
www.hinkleysupplychain.co.uk
3

British Chamber of Commerce News
International Trade Survey shows increasing
interest in export
The British Chambers of Commerce (BCC) recently
published a major international trade survey, looking at
how many UK companies are currently exporting and
the barriers they face in penetrating new growth
markets.
The survey of nearly 4,700 respondents shows that the
number of member businesses that are actively
exporting has risen from 32% in 2012 to 39% in 2013,
and that the EU is still the most popular market.
However, many businesses are now recognising the
changing dynamics of the global economy, with more
companies targeting the fast-growing economies of the
United Arab Emirates and India to try and increase their
export sales.
The increasing appetite for export from the Somerset
businesses that responded to the survey is also clear.
Whilst 47% of Somerset respondents felt that the UK
domestic market for their business’ products or services
is flat or in decline, over a third said they have
ambitions to grow sales internationally in the next 12
months.
32% of Somerset respondents said they currently export
products and/or services to overseas markets, with
another 7% saying they are actively considering or likely
to consider exporting in the future.
More information on the opportunities that international
trade can provide for Somerset businesses can be
found in our report on the recent Somerset in Business
Conference.
Latest Quarterly Economic Survey now live
The British Chambers of Commerce Quarterly Economic
Survey (QES) for Q2 2013 is now live. Monitoring the
economic performance and confidence of Somerset
and Britain as a whole, the survey is open until 10 June
and can be found at:
www.britishchambers.org.uk/qes
The QES is the largest and most representative
independent business survey of its kind in the UK.
Each quarter, over 7,500 businesses participate,
answering questions on a wide range of issues,
including: home sales and orders; export sales
and orders; employment prospects; investment;
recruitment difficulties; cashflow; confidence; and
price pressures.
The survey comprises approx. 20 tick box
questions and takes just a few minutes to
complete. No detailed information is required and
the survey is completely anonymous.
The QES is the first economic indicator each
quarter, published in advance of official figures
and other private surveys, and it consistently mirrors
trends in official data. For this reason the
survey is closely watched by policymakers such as
the Treasury, the Bank of England and the new
Office of Budget Responsibility.
Survey login details
Chamber Password: economy
Chamber number: 35
Closing date: Tuesday 11th June 2013
www.britishchambers.org.uk
4

Local Election
Local election results bring stability for
business
The recent local election results were of great
significance to businesses in Somerset for a number of
reasons. The local Council is responsible for decisions
relating to business rates, budgets and policies, and a
change in leadership can result in disruption in any or
all of these areas. At a time of on-going economic
uncertainty, a sustained focus on policies and projects
already underway is preferable from a business
perspective.
For this reason, the stability in local government that
the May elections have brought is good news for
Somerset businesses, enabling a continued focus on
the economic development of the county.
Rupert Cox, CEO of the Somerset Chamber of
Commerce, says, “The Somerset Chamber of
Commerce and businesses welcome stability in local
government. Whilst we acknowledge the County
Council’s direction of travel toward a commissioning
based structure, we believe it still has a responsibility
to work even harder to deliver economic growth with
the economy remaining flat for so long. We would
therefore welcome continued clear leadership in
investing in economic development activities as the
key driver to growing the Somerset economy, including
continued investment in Into Somerset to promote
Somerset as a great business destination.
opportunities
associated with the
planned Hinkley Point
C development.”
David Hall, Deputy
Leader of Somerset
County Council and
Cabinet Member for
Business, Inward
Investment and Policy,
says, “Somerset County
Council’s Economic
strategy focuses on
bringing sustainable
Cllr. David Hall
growth, employment
and prosperity to the County. I am delighted that the
people of Somerset have granted us a further mandate
to build on our recent successes and I am looking to
the future with considerable optimism.
“No one understands the key drivers for business
success better than businesses themselves, and the
Somerset Chamber is a key representative of our local
business community. I am delighted that we have such
a positive engagement with the Somerset Chamber
covering so many areas of the Somerset economy, not
least in areas such as Into Somerset and the Local
Enterprise Partnership. I look forward to strengthening
that working relationship even more in the future, and
working in partnership to deliver economic success for
the County.”
“We will continue to work with County Hall to hasten the
rolling out of superfast broadband across the county,
pressurise Government to enhance the A303 and A358
major transport routes, and make full use of the
For details and results of the recent election please visit:
http://www1.somerset.gov.uk/council/election/2013/
divisions.asp
Join the Somerset Chamber of Commerce
Membership offers support and
advice to help you increase your
profits and also helps the Chamber
increase its influence.
Membership includes:
Effective business lobbying and
representation at local, regional and
national levels through accreditation to
the British Chambers of Commerce and
membership of the South West
Chambers of Commerce.
A range of FREE services provided
through the British Chambers of
Commerce. Access to nine exclusive
Chamber offers from national and
local Premier Providers.
Business Networking events with the
opportunity to network with up to 2,000
Chamber Members from across
Somerset and throughout the South
West.
Informative seminars to share knowledge
and best practice including
Meet-the-Buyer events.
Initial FREE publicity for new Members in
Chamber News and on the website
www.somerset-chamber.co.uk.
For more details please call
01823 444924, email
manager@somerset-chamber.co.uk or
visit www.somerset-chamber.co.uk.
5

Sustainability Show
The Sustainability Show & Taunton Food
Fair
The Sustainability Show returns for its third year as part
of a weekend of fun-filled free family entertainment in
Taunton. On Saturday 15 June, Somerfest, a brand new
midsummer celebration, will bring a carnival
atmosphere to the centre of Taunton. This will be
followed on Sunday 16 June by the Sustainability Show,
incorporating Taunton’s first dedicated Food Fair.
The Sustainability Show will take place as usual on the
site of Queen’s College in Taunton with the gates
opening at 10am. The inclusion of the Taunton Food
Fair is an exciting step for the Sustainability Show,
which was launched by Hugh Fearnley-Whittingstall in
2011. River Cottage will have a strong presence this
year, offering goodie bags, recipes and a star raffle
prize of a free family pass to the Autumn Fair at their
renowned headquarters in Dorset.
The Sustainability Show was conceived as a free and
fun community event for families to learn more about
the importance of balancing economic development
and planetary stewardship. With over 100 exhibitors
and organisations showcasing a wide variety of
products and services including renewable energy,
bees, poultry, seeds, fashion and of course food, there
is something for all the family. Live music, sheep dog
displays, cookery demonstrations (featuring Naomi
Devlin) and rural craft demonstrations throughout the
day, along with bars and food outlets
ensure a relaxed country fair
atmosphere. Celebrate Father’s Day with
lunch for all the family!
Organisers hope that this special summer weekend of
free entertainment showcasing all that is good about
Taunton and its region will attract visitors from
throughout the South West.
For further details, see www.sustainabilityshow.org.uk
6
Affiliate Town Chambers
Axbridge Chamber of Commerce
01934 733078
www.axbridgechamber.co.uk
Mike Sartain, mike.sartain@hale-events.ltd.uk
Burnham-on-Sea Chamber of Commerce
01278 238959
www.burnham-on-sea.com
Deryk Monaghan,
chairman@burnhamonseachamber.org
Bridgwater Chamber of Commerce
www.bridgwaterchamber.org.uk
Steve Leahy, talk@bridgwaterchamber.org.uk
Crewkerne Chamber of Commerce
01460 200115
Jonathan Edgington
crewkernechamber@gmail.com
Frome Chamber of Commerce
07887 641469
www.wessexchambers.org.uk
Neil Howlett
neil.howlett@fromeharris-harris.co.uk
Ilminster Chamber of Commerce
01460 54364
www.ilminsterchamber.org.uk
Sarah Calhaem, sarah@theteetree.co.uk
Langport Area Business Group
07763 955390
www.langport-tc.gov.uk
Lynne Charlick labgmembership@gmail.com
Shepton Mallet & District Chamber
01749 344995
www.shepton.biz
Ian Jarmaine, ian@swanatshepton.co.uk
Taunton Chamber of Commerce
01823 322288
www.taunton-chamber.co.uk
Colin Barrell, colinstearoom@hotmail.com
Wells Chamber of Commerce
01749 670000
www.wellsonline.org.uk
info@identitykits.co.uk
Wellington Chamber of Commerce
01823 661982
www.wellingtonchamber.co.uk
Ian Stock, Ian.stock@wellingtonchamber.co.uk
Yeovil Chamber of Commerce
01935 804999
www.yeovilchamber.org
Gina Farnborough, secretary@yeovilchamber.org
IS YOUR TOWN CHAMBER OR
BUSINESS GROUP MISSING?
Find out more about the benefits of
Affiliating to The Somerset Chamber.
Call 01823 444924
or email Vikki Waterman on
manager@somerset-chamber.co.uk.
Alternatively visit
www.somerset-chamber.co.uk

Crewkerne Area Business Chamber
Following its re-launch in 2012, Crewkerne
Area Chamber of Trade & Commerce
became Crewkerne Area Business Chamber
(CABC). It has since attracted members from
a wide trade spectrum, as well as younger
members that help to invigorate fresh ideas.
Since then, CABC has increased the assets it has
available for members’ usage, such as stalls and
seating for events, and it provides support to local
charity organisations, from junior triathlons to craft and
vintage fairs.
strength of the new
committee and our members
has reinvigorated
communications with all the
organisations and charities
in the area. This recently
culminated in the formation
of a Town Team with
representation from the
Mayor, Rotary Club, Civic
Society, Chamber, as well as the Town and District
council, ensuring that projects are fully supported by all
representatives and that we are all pulling in the same
direction."
Chairman, Jonathan Edgington, has been delighted to
see the effort and enthusiasm from local organisations
in support of the new Chamber. He says, "We could see
that the Chamber needed a fresh ‘lick of paint’, but as
well as the aesthetics it was equally important to create
the underlying strength, and support, to members and
the town as a whole."
With a history in teaching
technology, Jonathan
Edgington’s portfolio includes
being technical consultant to
the Haynes Publishing
International PC Guide (now in
its fifth edition), and now with
seven years at Intouch
Solutions, he is currently
working on a similar guide to
assist the CABC members with
mobile communications use and to clarify industry
jargon.
“It is essential that our old market town retains its
quaint historical charm, whilst being technologically
up-to-date. We wish to utilise all the services that new,
and forthcoming, technical developments will provide."
Jonathan has avidly supported innovative ideas such as
QR Codes and Town ‘Apps’ listing local traders and
services through both the District Council and
crewkernetown.org, as well as looking for opportunities
to introduce the likes of NFC (Near Field
Communication). "It's far from the Saxon Mint that
helped establish the area, but shows that adopting the
new with the old really can complement each other.”
CABC now boasts members from the cutting edge of
innovation to the knowledgeable experience of directors
with decades of experience to share. "The combined
It is an exciting time for CABC and its bi-monthly
meetings ensure that the time invested by members is
informative yet brief. Membership includes emails of
forthcoming events and seminars, inclusion in the Town
App, as well as access to Chamber assets for members’
own functions.
In the current economic climate, businesses have to
ensure that every expense has a return. With annual
membership at only £25 per organisation, the CABC is
sure that its members recognise and appreciate this
value for money.
Whether a sole trader or large organisation, contact
CABC today to find out how you can be part of
Crewkerne Area’s future.
Email Jonathan Edgington at
crewkernechamber@gmail.com or call 01460 200115
Picture: 1) Jonathan Edgington, Chairman of CABC
Picture 2) CABC Members
Photos by the Western Gazette
7

New Members
May’s new members
1610 Ltd
Leisure Facilities
Emma Warr
01823 410228
www.1610.org.uk
Atom Fabs
Stainless Steel, Welding, Fabrications
Gavin Smillie
01460 67402
www.atomfabs.co.uk
Cargocall South West
Freight Forwarding
Agents
Alan Seymour
0800 731 1117
www.cargocall.com
Cory Brothers Shipping
Agency Ltd
Ships Agency & Logistics
Michael Tree
0117 938 2323
www.cory.co.uk
James Brown and Sons (Somerset) Ltd
General Insurance
Brokers
James Brown
01278 555041
www.jamesbrownandsons.com
Knightstone Housing Association Ltd
Affordable Housing Provider
Wendy Lewis
01823 624 235
www.knightstone.co.uk
Mark Wall Communications Ltd
PR, Marketing
& Media
Mark Wall
01823 271508
www.markwall.co.uk
Ministry of Cake Ltd
Frozen Dessert Manufacturer
Gilly Young
01823 257922
www.ministryofcake.co.uk
R K Bell Group
Complete Construction Package
Nick Bell
01278 424883
www.rkbell.com
Sherwoods
Electrical &
Mechanical Engineers
Kevin Sherwood
01803 292933
www.sherwoodonline.co.uk
Ministry of Cake
Who are we?
Ministry of Cake has 150 years’ experience of
manufacturing high quality desserts. We are a
fun-loving team who are passionate about our work,
dedicated to bringing both innovative and traditional
desserts to our customers and having fun while we do
it. Who wouldn’t have fun surrounded by this much
chocolate?
What do we do?
We are an award winning company, with the capacity to produce over
2.5million slices of cake a week for our customers in the foodservice,
catering and wholesale industries. Our development chefs work
closely with our customers to design the best products. The rest of us
have the onerous task of testing out their new ideas and recipes. Did
we mention that this is a fun place to work?
What makes us tick?
In three words – making great cakes. Or, to put it another way, we aim
to exceed our customers’ expectations through continuous
improvement and close customer relationships. We thrive on
excellence and enjoy delighting our customers with indulgent cakes,
puddings and a host of other heavenly desserts. And if we can have
fun along the way, then so much the better…
Good Company News
Recently we reached an agreement with Brakes to transfer the
production of their desserts range into the Ministry of Cake facility in
Taunton during the first half of 2013.
In order to meet this increased demand, Ministry of Cake will be
recruiting up to 52 new colleagues, increasing staff numbers to over
250. This is very positive news for our colleagues and for the local
community around us where Ministry of Cake has been a key
employer since it was founded by W.T. Maynard in 1865.
The additional business will see Ministry
sales leap by 30%, making over 400
different desserts ranging from Chocolate
Fudge Cake, cheesecakes, apple pies and
sticky toffee puddings for over 100
customers in the UK and increasingly
abroad.
8

European Regional Development Fund
Opportunities to support SME's in the
Engineering Sector
Bridgwater College has a thriving
engineering department located in
its flagship facility, the Energy
Skills Centre, which was opened
by the Secretary of State for
Climate Change in January 2011.
Since then, the number of
engineering students at the College has more than
doubled. The training programmes on offer range from
engineering apprenticeships right through to HNCs/
HNDs and degree-level programmes; and cover areas
such as computer aided design; manufacturing and
production technologies; electrical and electronic
engineering; robotics and control engineering;
mechanical; maintenance; welding and fabrication;
aerospace or automotive. Short courses in lean; BIT;
parametric solid modelling; welding; machining; and
CAD are also available.
Students studying engineering can take full advantage
of the College’s state of the art workshops, which are
fully stocked with the latest robotic CAD/CAM
equipment; dedicated PLC; electronics; engineering
technology; and pneumatic/hydraulics laboratory
facilities.
To demonstrate its commitment to the promotion of
engineering training in the South West, Bridgwater
College is delighted to be joining the engineering
Innovation Network–South West( EIN-SW) in supporting
innovation for small to medium-sized companies
(SMEs). As a leading training provider with an excellent
reputation for providing business training solutions, we
are delighted to be able to share our expertise in order
to drive, develop and deliver business benefits to a
wider range of engineering businesses, whilst giving our
students some valuable industry experience
This partnership has one simple aim—to help develop
the SME sector in the South West by providing free
business support in the following areas:
• Developing new products and ideas
• Understanding new materials
• Exploring new manufacturing techniques
• Exploring new markets
• Cutting costs by sharing manufacturing capacity and
purchasing
Membership of
EIN-SW is open to
all SMEs in the
South West of
England,
predominantly
working in the
engineering sector.
The qualifying criteria for an SME are: that the business
employs fewer than 250 people; has an annual
turnover of less than £45m and/or a balance sheet
below £39m; and is not more than 25% owned by one
or more non-SME companies (except public investment
corporations; venture capital companies and
institutional investors, which do not exercise control).
Alongside membership
of the EIN-SW, the
College is also now a
partner of the
European Regional
Development Fund (ERDF) funded project and will be
working alongside EIN-SW to develop engineering
businesses in the South-West.
Please contact the Engineering Training Manager at
Bridgwater College for further business support on
01278 441282 or via email at
salehp@bridgwater.ac.uk
We would like to thank Bridgwater College
on becoming the Somerset Chamber’s
eighth patron.
What is Patronage of the Chamber?
Becoming a Patron of the Somerset Chamber
entitles you to a superior membership package
tailored to your company’s needs.
Whether you require support in developing your own
Somerset supply chain, access to business leaders
and decision makers across the region, free places
at Somerset Chamber networking events or
increased branding, the package can be tailored
accordingly
Contact the Chamber for further details
manager@somerset-chamber.co.uk
Contact the Chamber Call 01823 444924, email manager@somerset-chamber.co.uk or visit www.somerset-chamber.co.uk
9

Members’ News
Top tax award for South West firm
Independent South West chartered accountancy firm
A.C. Mole & Sons has won a national award in the
prestigious ‘Oscars’ of the tax profession.
The Somerset-based
business was
declared Best Single
Office Tax Practice at
the 2013 LexisNexis
Taxation Awards
ceremony held in front
of an audience of 700
at the Hilton Park Lane Hotel, London, last night.
Judges said testimonials from A.C. Mole’s clients were
exceptionally impressive.
Tax partner Amanda Gunter, who collected the award,
said: "We pride ourselves on client service and our
entry rested entirely on what they said about us.”
The Taxation Awards were launched in 2001 and
quickly grew to become a major annual event.
In May 2002, A.C. Mole & Sons reached the final
shortlist in the Butterworths Tolley (subsequently Lexis
Nexis) Tax Awards for Best Tax Team in a Small to
Medium Sized Firm category. The firm was short listed
again in 2003 and in 2004 brought home the trophy
for the first time.
A delighted managing partner Steve Golby
said: “Winning again shows that we are keeping our
edge in an ever more competitive market.”
www.acmole.co.uk
IT Services Company moves to Yeovil,
expands Service Offerings AND is recruiting!
Blueloop Limited, an IT
Services Company, had
been based in North Perrott
since its formation in 2000. With business expansion
and also the need to offer faster and improved
telecommunications links for our customers, Blueloop
has now re-located to the heart of Yeovil.
Taking over the old Preston Road Clinic premises above
the Fiveways roundabout from the NHS, this is being
transformed into:
Blueloop House, Ilchester Road, Yeovil, BA21 3AA
Critical to the move were the improved
telecommunications facilities available at the new
premises, enhancing Blueloop’s customer offerings of
Cloud Computing, on-line backups and IP Telephony.
Business is growing as well and Blueloop has recently
appointed a new Technical Specialist and is looking to
recruit both an administrator and additional technicians
over the coming weeks.
www.blueloop.net
VisitEngland lists Wincanton within top ten
racecourses for Customer Experience
Wincanton is delighted to feature
within the top ten racecourses in
England and Wales for visitor
attraction and customer experience,
as judged by VisitEngland, the
country’s national tourist board.
The VisitEngland ‘Quality Assured Racecourse Scheme’
has seen racecourses across England and Wales
independently assessed and marked on all aspects of
the customer experience. These include pre-visit checks
on the website and phone contact, as well as a full
assessment of the raceday facilities on
offer. Racecourses were the first sporting attractions in
the country to be assessed and promoted in this way.
54 racecourses in England and Wales were assessed,
with Wincanton being named within the top ten
alongside Ascot, Cheltenham, Doncaster, Epsom
Downs, Kempton Park, Newmarket, Sandown Park,
Windsor and York.
Steve Parlett, Wincanton’s General Manager, says: “This
is an immense achievement for the team. We
continually strive to make sure that we provide a
rewarding and enjoyable experience to our
racegoers. This season we introduced new initiatives
such as complimentary behind the scenes tours, trips to
the starts and an informative tipping panel for every
raceday.
“Showcase race meetings are strategically planned and
implemented to ensure the ultimate experience for all
racegoers, as well as regular price reviews.”
www.wincantonracecourse.co.uk
10

Members’ News
Radstock Co-operative Society puts
People first
A Radstock based
organisation has been
presented with a prestigious
national award, making it one
of the retail industry’s success stories.
Radstock Co-operative Society, which was established
in 1868 and has some 375 employees, operates a
large superstore, eleven community stores and a 1,000
-acre dairy farm. The Society was awarded the
Investors in People Silver award for the way it has
transformed business performance through the
support and motivation of its team.
a member owned, co-operative society with people and
communities at the very heart of everything we do, the
principles that underpin IIP are very familiar. We are
proud that we have taken the business from Bronze to
Silver in just over 18 months, which is a remarkable
achievement and is testament to the commitment and
efforts of the entire workforce.”
www.radstockcoop.co.uk
Monahans and Holland & Co Merger
Two long-established
accountancy practices,
Monahans in Glastonbury and
Street based Holland & Co, are
delighted to announce that they
are joining forces.
Monahans, with five offices across Wiltshire and
Somerset, has established itself as a major firm of
chartered accountants in the South West, providing
businesses and individuals with an extensive range of
services and advice.
Mr Ian Bell, Director of Bath Chamber of Commerce &
Initiative in B&NES presented Don Morris, chief
executive of Radstock Co-operative with the Silver
certificate at a celebratory lunch on 11 April 2013
accompanied by a representative from the Board of
Directors and colleagues. Ian Bell said, “This is a
terrific achievement and makes the company one of
only a handful of food retailers in the whole of the
South West to hold the Silver award. The great thing
about the business is that it is constantly looking to
move forward and prosper in a fiercely competitive
market place, whilst respecting its history, tradition,
and above all, the important part it plays in the
communities it serves.”
Don Morris said: “We have used the IIP framework and
model to help us develop our management practices,
improving our business both in terms of growth and in
developing our colleagues. Going for the Silver award
helped us to focus on developing the skills and
knowledge of our managers and professionalising the
business to support our continuing expansion plans. As
David Holland
has practiced
in Somerset
since the mid
seventies and,
with his experienced
team at
Holland & Co,
looks after a
broad range of
clients both locally and further afield. David and his
eight staff have moved into Monahans offices in
Glastonbury and it is ‘all systems go’ for the new look
firm.
Stephen Fry, the partner in charge of Monahans’
Glastonbury office, is thrilled with this move. “Both
Monahans and Holland & Co are well established in the
area but the merger of the two businesses will create
an accountancy firm that is better able to provide the
knowledge and expertise our clients demand in today’s
environment.”
Monahans has seen strong growth in recent years and
this is an important step in achieving the firm’s future
growth plans over the next few years.
www.monahans.co.uk
11

Porter Dodson
Powering Your Business With Renewables
Alison Stock, Head of Porter Dodson’s Renewable
Energy team, outlines some of the options for
businesses considering renewable energy:
With energy costs rising and the government planning
to decommission our oil fired power stations it becomes
ever more important to find alternative means of
providing power to our businesses. Renewable energy
is increasingly accessible to all and does not have to
involve large wind turbines or enormous fields of solar
panels. Businesses can make a difference to their own
carbon footprint and often save money at the same
time. Here are some ideas:
If you have a building that faces south and has a
sufficiently large roof then you could install solar
panels to power your electrical requirements during
the day and you can sell excess power to the grid.
Sign up to a Feed in Tariff and you will also receive
additional funds for production of power. Even
though the rates for the tariff are gradually reducing,
the Solar Trade Association suggests returns on
investment of around 9%.
You could install a biomass boiler or a ground source
heat pump to heat your building. Claim the
Renewable Heat Incentive and you could make a
return on investment of up to 12.5% - not bad in the
current financial climate.
Food manufacturers can find real financial and
‘green’ benefits in working with others to dispose of
food waste to an anaerobic digester plant. These
use waste products to produce electricity and
fertiliser through a biological process. They are run
as collectives or on a commercial basis.
The Porter Dodson Renewable Energy team work with
businesses and landowners to develop their renewable
energy strategies.
For further information call 01823 652109.
Porter Dodson is sponsoring the Environmental Award
in this year’s Somerset Business Awards:
Porter Dodson is delighted to be sponsoring this Award.
The winning company will prove that it has developed
and used good practice in managing waste, reducing
energy use or other environmental initiative that
balances profitability with environmental awareness.
Entries open on 1 June 2013. For
further information visit
www.somersetbusinessawards.org.uk
12
Keeping up with changes in
employment law
From the 25 July 2013, the government will be
introducing employment tribunal fees.
Current position
At the moment employees are not required to make any
payment as part of issuing an employment tribunal
claim. There is also limited exposure to an employer’s
legal costs where an employee is unsuccessful.
The government feels this encourages nuisance, or
weak claims which are costly for employers to defend.
In response, employees will be required to pay an issue
fee, followed by a hearing fee.
Tribunal fees
There will be two levels of fee, type A and type B. Type A
claims will include breach of contract, wages claims,
unlawful deductions, holiday pay, redundancy pay and
some time off rights.
Type B claims will make up the majority of actions and
include unfair dismissal, detriment and all
discrimination claims. Tribunal judges will be able to
reimburse any fees where an employee is successful.
Keeping up to date
In addition to fees, there will also be a number of other
significant changes throughout 2013, which include:
Type of Fee
Type A Claims Type B Claims
Issue Fee £160 £250
Hearing Fee £230 £950
a reduction in the compensatory award for unfair
dismissal;
a new offence of caste discrimination; and
allowing employees to give up some employment
rights, including unfair dismissal, in exchange for
shares in their employer’s business.
To help employers keep up to date with changes, Porter
Dodson will be running a number of employment law
seminars in Autumn 2013. For details, please email
Amy King: amy.king@porterdodson.co.uk.
For advice on an employment law issue, contact a member of our
Employment team:
Adrian Poole: 01935 846802
Alan Sarhan: 01823 625840
Laura Roper: 01935 846741
Follow Porter Dodson on Twitter @porter_dodson
Page sponsored by Porter Dodson

Somerset Businesses help bring Home Farm Fest to Life
helping it keep its profit margin to a maximum so the
charity can carry out its life changing work.”
Somerset businesses are joining forces this month to
support the Home Farm Fest which raises money to
provide ‘School in a Bag’ rucksacks full of stationery,
learning resources and eating utensils for poor,
vulnerable and disaster affected children across the
world. Organised by Somerset charity the Piers Simon
Appeal, the festival takes place from 7 to 9 June near
Yeovil.
Charity Liaison Officer, Luke Simon, says, “The Home
Farm Fest has only been able to grow thanks to the
amazing support from a variety of local businesses.
Their contribution plays a huge part in allowing us as a
charity to keep our expenses and overheads to an
absolute minimum, thus increasing the funds we can
raise for School in a Bag. We are indebted to their
involvement.”
www.homefarmfest.co.uk
But the Home Farm Fest could not go ahead without
the support of Somerset’s generous business
community, which donates a vast range of products
and services that help deliver the event.
One of its biggest supporters is Yeovil based YHC Hire
Services, which supplies a wide range of equipment
free of charge, including generators, lighting rigs and
portaloos. Managing Director Andy Parker says, “It’s
been a real pleasure to support Home Farm Fest with
our hire equipment since it started in 2006 and we
have enjoyed watching the festival grow. It is great to
know that our contribution plays an important part in
CAN YOU HELP THE PRINCES TRUST?
BY SUPPORTING YOUNG UNEMPLOYED PEOPLE?
Explore Enterprise Delivery Volunteer
The Enterprise Programme supports unemployed 18 to 30 year olds interested in self
employment to explore and test their ideas, write a business plan and start their own
businesses or achieve alternative outcomes in employment, education, training or voluntary work. The Prince’s
Trust runs a four day Explore Enterprise course that explores all areas of running your own business such as
marketing, selling,finance and tax. After the course a young person(s) will be allocated a:
Next Steps Mentor
To help the young person explore their business idea in greater detail. And explore further if self-employment is
the right option for the young person. If so they will then be allocated a:
Business Mentor
The Trust’s Business Mentors support young people for up to two years to help them explore their business, put
a business plan together and present their idea to our panel in order to gain funding and/or mentor support.
We would be pleased to hear from anyone who can support us in any of the above areas for just a few hours
per month
Open evening: Friday 14 June 6-8pm at the Holiday Inn Express Taunton
Training dates: Thursday 4 and Friday 5 July at Foot Anstey 09.30 – 16.40
Please contact me at anna.hill@princes-trust.org.uk or call 0117 943 4965 to discuss further.
13

Somerset in Business Conference 2013
Somerset in Business Conference
photo gallery
“The event provided me with a lot of new
information in determining the way forward for
my business. The positive atmosphere
generated by the Somerset Chamber throughout
the day, convinced me we need to apply for
Membership.”
“I think the overall organisation of the event,
the content and the positive atmosphere that
it generated throughout the
day was excellent. A big thank
you to everyone involved in
the organisation of the event.”
“Fantastic content and would
definitely attend again.
Well done all concerned.”
“Very valuable to a
new company with
high aspirations.
Essential new
contacts and
good advice
RE possible export
Opportunities.”
With thanks to
our sponsor
EDF Energy
14

Somerset in Business Conference 2013
Re:locate Awards 2012/13
Congratulations to the Into Somerset team on receiving
Highly Commended for the ’Relocation Service Provider
2013’
Photography by Charles Glover Photography
15

Calling all Somerset Businesses
On 30 May, the most prestigious annual
business event in Somerset’s business
calendar was launched. Celebrating
businesses of all shapes and sizes, across a
variety of sectors, the Somerset Business
Awards highlights positive business activity and
stimulates growth across the county.
Somerset Business Awards Sponsors
Now in its ninth year, the 2013
Somerset Business Awards were
officially unveiled at the Network
Central event at Bridgwater
College in front of many of Somerset's influential
businesses.
Rupert Cox, CEO of the Somerset
Chamber of Commerce, who
organises the Awards, says, “It is
no surprise that year on year we
see an increase in the number of
high quality entrants from within
such a flourishing and innovative
business community. The Awards
showcase Somerset’s real assets
on a regional and national basis.
We are delighted to welcome new
sponsors for 2013 – Porter
Dodson, Job Seekers Recruitment
Ltd and A.C Mole & Sons – and look forward to a highly
successful and affluent year for businesses!”
With a thriving track record, Somerset Business Award
winners often go on to achieve bigger and better things
following their success at the Awards. Winners of the
Service Excellence Award in 2012, Samantha Cooper from
Cooper Associates, says, “From a business perspective, the
Award has certainly propelled us further forwards. Our
award proves to both our current and prospective clients
that we provide an excellent level of service,
which is consistently delivered.”
Media Partners
Main sponsor for the third consecutive year, David Griffin, Managing Partner at Albert Goodman,
says, “We are delighted to continue our sponsorship of the Somerset Business Awards for 2013 and
are eager to see what local businesses have been achieving. The Awards provide the perfect
platform to showcase your company and forge relationships with mutually-beneficial businesses
within a thriving business community.”
For entry details and to apply online, please visit www.somersetbusinessawards.org.uk. The Awards
officially open on 1 June and will close on 30 August at 17.00.
Why not follow us on Twitter for all the latest updates @SomBizAwards #SBA2013
16

Rural Economies
Somerset is perfectly placed
for rural economic growth
A recent report from the Paris-based
Organisation for Economic
Co-operation and Development
(OECD) focusing on modernising the
rural economy has provided an
interesting perspective on the key
strategies for rural economic
development. As one of the strongest
rural economies in the country, it is
interesting to see how closely
Somerset ties in with this analysis.
The report highlights the fact that
rural policy has had to evolve beyond
the traditional model, with its almost
exclusive focus on agriculture. It
outlines the wide belief that the future
prosperity of rural regions will be
driven by enterprise, innovation and
new technologies.
Four main areas of opportunity and
four of vulnerability are highlighted,
which the report claims are typical in
rural areas. The key opportunities, it says, are in
tourism, forestry, renewable energy and local foods.
According to the OECD, these are sectors recognised
as being well positioned to boost local economic
opportunities and it is encouraging to note that all are
already present in Somerset. Furthermore, as we heard
at the recent Somerset in Business Conference, there
are vast opportunities for export in the renewable
energy and food sectors in particular.
Meanwhile, the report suggests that the four main
vulnerabilities are demographic change, climate
change, declining fiscal resources and single industry
towns. Whilst these are not new concerns, they are
worth bearing in mind and the report stresses the
importance of exploiting future opportunities in a way
that addresses rural vulnerabilities in order to
maximise the chances of success.
Although the report recognises that there is no specific
formula for rural economic success, it does suggest
that there are some common strategies that will
strengthen rural markets and improve
competitiveness. These revolve around four types of
issues, which are supply chains, skills,
entrepreneurship and innovation.
All four of these issues are areas where the Somerset
Chamber of Commerce has strong connections, putting
it in a perfect position to assist businesses in the
county. The Chamber’s work with the Hinkley Supply
Chain Portal; management of the Into Somerset inward
investment organisation; involvement with the
Somerset Employment and Skills Board; engagement
with Somerset colleges and schools; high profile
business awards; and busy calendar of events all
provide excellent opportunities to help Somerset
businesses to grow.
In short, Somerset offers huge scope for economic
growth and access to extensive advice and support
that can help make this happen. To find out more
about how the Somerset Chamber can help your
business grow, visit www.somerset-chamber.co.uk
17

Somerset Young Professionals
Somerset Young Professionals invited to Cheese and Cider tasting in Cheddar Caves!
Following a highly successful launch, the second Somerset
Young Professionals event will take place on Thursday 4 July at
Cheddar Caves.
The event, which will be held within the spectacular Cheddar
Caves, will providing a relaxing evening of informal networking
whilst providing the opportunity to sample Cheddar’s finest
cheese and Cider.
Starting at 6.30pm, young professionals will be treated to cheese and
cider tasting hosted by representatives from the Cheddar Cheese
Company and Rich’s Cider followed by a short tour of the magnificent
caves by the Cheddar Caves guides. There will be plenty of time to
network with fellow professionals from across the county, representing
a wide range of industries.
Organised by the Somerset Chamber of Commerce, the Somerset
Young Professionals events are aimed at business people in their
twenties and thirties, helping them to build new business relationships
and develop a network of contacts in a relaxed social environment.
Open to business people from all professions, they are a great way to develop networking skills and confidence,
or just extend your business network.
The event is open to everyone, so
please do pass this information on to
those that you feel this maybe
applicable to. Employees of
Somerset Chamber member
companies are entitled to a
discounted cost.
To find out more or to sign up for this
event, please contact Jenn Chidley or
Sue Higgins at the Somerset Chamber
of Commerce on 01823 444924 or
email jennchidley@somersetchamber.co.uk
SYP Cheese and Cider tasting in Cheddar Caves
Date: Thursday 4 July
Time: Doors open 18.00
Start at 18.30
Cost: Members £20.00 (inc VAT)
Non-Members £25.00 (inc VAT)
Venue: Cheddar Caves, Cheddar
Food: Finger Buffet
Book online at www.somerset-chamber.co.uk/events/somerset-chamber/
Image 1 - Cheese (c) Suat Eman - Image courtesy of FreeDigitalPhotos.net
18
Contact the Chamber Call 01823 444924, email manager@somerset-chamber.co.uk or visit www.somerset-chamber.co.uk

Next Events
Treasure your Customers…
Treasure your Business
Date: Tuesday 11 June
Session 1: 10.00 - 12.00
Session 2: 14.00 –16.00
Venue: Canalside Centre, Bridgwater
Cost: Members £20.00 Non-Members £25.00 (inc VAT)
This event, organised in association with HIT
Training, is aimed at all manor of businesses who
understand the importance of customer service.
Particularly geared towards hospitality and catering
industries, this interactive workshop will guide owners,
managers and employees through the fundamental
rules for delivering exceptional service and ensuring
that your customers return time and time again.
Topics covered include:
Do first impressions count?
Importance of customer service within a business /
hospitality environment
Does industry sector matter in terms of customer
service?
Creating the right rapport
5 star service: How do you achieve this?
Listen to your customers
This event will also provide healthy discussions amongst
people who are in similar businesses and the chance to
network with like-minded people.
Managing Generation ‘Y’ in the
workplace
Date: Thursday 20 June
Time: 08.00
Venue: Yarlington Housing Group, Yeovil
Cost: Members £20.00 Non-Members £25.00 (inc VAT)
Food Provided: Bacon Bap, Tea & Coffee
Who are Generation Y and how do you engage and
manage them in your organisation?
Drawing on some of the commentary and observations
made about Generation Y (those born between 1979
and 1998) this session for senior executives will look at
the cultural issues that can arise from engaging and
managing this generation. In particular, we will
consider:
Who they are & what their common characteristics are
Their attitudes towards career, mentoring and
development, pay and benefits, working
arrangements and communication
How this generation can positively contribute to your
organisation
How you, as an employer, need to factor their
expectations into your recruitment and working practices
to enable you to attract and retain this talented
generation
Our hosts for this event will be Yarlington Housing Group, a
leading employer in the area that employs a number of
‘Generation Y’ staff. They will give a first hand account
during this interactive workshop on the benefits and also
issues to be aware of that could
impact on your business.
Business to Business Dinner at Wells Cathedral
Date: Tuesday 25th June
Time: 18.45
Cost: Members £30.00
Non-Members £40.00 (inc VAT)
We have been offered a unique opportunity to dine within the beautiful surroundings of Wells Cathedral, starting with a drink
on arrival in the North Transept and a welcome from the Dean of Wells Cathedral, the Very Reverend John Clark. This will be
followed by a superb pre-ordered three course dinner made with locally sourced produce in the Vicars Hall.
Choral Evensong is being held at the Cathedral from 17.15 for those who wish to
participate with one of the world’s finest choirs.
Venue: Vicars Hall, Wells
Food: 3 course dinner
For more information on any of our events, including sponsorship opportunities,
please email events@somerset-chamber.co.uk or call 01823 444924
19

Somerset Chamber Events Calendar
For more information on our events, including sponsorship opportunities, please email Sue
at events@somerset-chamber.co.uk or call 01823 444924
(All costs inclusive of VAT except where detailed)
Treasure your customer - Treasure your Business - Tuesday 11 June
This new event offers those working in the hospitality industry an interactive workshop to guide them
through rules for delivering exceptional service, ensuring customers return time and time again.
Time: Session 1 - 10.00 Session 2 - 14.00 Venue: Canalside Centre, Bridgwater
Cost: Members Discounted Cost £20.00 Non Members £25.00
Business Leaders Dinner - Thursday 13 June - By Invitation only
A business dinner specifically for Somerset’s larger employees
With guest speaker John Longworth, Director General of the British Chamber of Commerce
Time: 19.00 Venue: Castle Hotel, Taunton, Cost: £45.00
Contact Sue Higgins to register your interest events@somerset-chamber.co.uk
Marketing Generation ’Y’ in the Workplace - Thursday 20 June
Who are Generation Y and how do you engage and manage them in your organisation?
Time: 08.00 Venue: Yarlington Housing Group, Yeovil
Cost: Members Discounted Cost £20.00 Non Members £25.00
Partner/Sponsor
Partner/Sponsor
Partner/Sponsor
Business to Business Dinner, Wells - Tuesday 25 June
A unique opportunity to dine within the beautiful surroundings of Wells Cathedral
Time: 18.30 Venue: Wells Cathedral, Wells
Cost: Members Discounted Cost £30.00 Non Members £40.00
Meet the Neighbours with Dorset Chamber
“Over 50 companies came together for an afternoon of networking, from all areas of Dorset and Somerset at the
annual Meet the Neighbours Business Lunch with Dorset Chamber.
Now in its sixth year, the event remains as popular as ever, as businesses see the benefit of being able to raise the
profile of their company to others in the neighbouring county. New business and working relationships have been
formed over the years, and it was great to see people come back together again to continue conversations had at
previous events.
The initial concept of the Meet the Neighbours style events came from a conversation between Somerset Chamber
CEO, Rupert Cox and his counterpart at Dorset Chamber, Peter Scott to explore how Chambers can work together to
encourage their respective members to network and build relationships over a wider geographic area, therefore
encouraging procurement and support towards local businesses. The model of cross Chamber networking has since
been replicated in other areas of the UK.
From 2008, we have now hosted
8 Meet the Neighbour Events with Dorset Chamber
2 with Exeter Chamber of Commerce
2 with Blackdown Hills Business Association/East Devon Chambers
1 with Bristol Chamber of Commerce
Partner/Sponsor
And for the latter part of 2013 we are planning an event with the Wessex Chambers, so will be visiting Frome and would
welcome companies from all areas of the county to come along.
Part
Images from the Meet the Neighbours with Dorset Chamber © Alan Hunter Photography
Call 01823 444924
Email events@somerset-chamber.co.uk