Business Cornwall Mar 24

HATCHING A PLAN

THE NATIONAL LOBSTER HATCHERY’S NICOLA O’DONNELL

HOSPITALITY & TOURISM SUNNY DAYS AHEAD?

PROPERTY REVIEW

SECTOR IN FOCUS

Vertu Land Rover Truro

6 Cornwall Business Park West, Scorrier, Redruth, TR16 5BN 0344 234 6119

vertumotors.com/land-rover

Official Fuel Economy and CO2 results for the Range Rover Sport Autobiography 23MY extended-range Plug-In Electric Hybrid range in mpg (1/100km) (weighted combined): 353.1-313.9 (0.8-0.9). CO2 Emissions (weighted combined) 18-20g/km. Equivalent all-eletric range: 70 miles (112 km). The figures provided are as a result of official manufacturer’s tests in accordance with EU legislation with a fully charged battery. For comparison purposes only. Real world figures may differ. CO2, fuel economy, energy consumption and range figures may vary according to factors such as driving styles, enviromental conditions, load, wheel fitment, accessories fitted, actual route and battery condition. Using 50kW rapid DC charger. Charging times will vary dependent on many factors, including: the age, condition, temperature and existing charge or the battery facility used and duration of charge. For more information and to configure your vehicle visit landrover.co.uk. Vertu Land Rover is a trading name of Albert Farnell Limited which is an authorised representative of Bristol Street First Investments Limited, which is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority. Company registration number 00391896. VAT Registration number 902737238. Registered office: Vertu House, Fifth Avenue Business Park, Team Valley, Gateshead, NE11 0XA.

INSIDE FEATURES

8 VENUE GUIDE

REGULARS

4 INCOMING THE TOURISM SEASON AHEAD

6 BUSINESS NEWS EMBRACING EMPLOYEE OWNERSHIP

40 CREATIVE & DIGITAL HELLO STRANGER!

41 CHAMBER NEWS KIM CONCHIE COLUMN

42 ON THE MOVE APPOINTMENTS NEWS

44 JUST A THOUGHT SARA CASTAÑEDA FROM RIO NUEVO

46 EVENTS DIARY LOOKING AHEAD

47 CONNECTED PM IN CORNWALL

48 THE LAST WORD STEVE MOSES FROM JACKSONS

THE ROYAL CORNWALL PAVILION CENTRE

10 HOSPITALITY & TOURISM

CORNWALL’S VIBRANT HOSPITALITY SECTOR IN THE SPOTLIGHT

18 CEO INTERVIEW

WE MEET NICOLA O’DONNELL, CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER AT THE NATIONAL LOBSTER HATCHERY IN PADSTOW

24 PROPERTY REVIEW

GLASS HALF FULL, OR HALF EMPTY?

32 ONES TO WATCH

CORNISH BUSINESS WOMEN MAKING WAVES

34 COMPANY PROFILE

A NEW LOOK FOR COODES SOLICITORS

38 APPRENTICESHIP AWARDS

EDEN PROJECT HOSTS CORNWALL APPRENTICESHIP AWARDS

PHOTO: HOLLY DAY (PIRATE FM) PRESENTING AT CORNWALL APPRENTICESHIP AWARDS

SEE PAGE 38 FOR MORE

ON THE COVER

Welcome to the March issue of Business Cornwall magazine.

It’s International Women’s Day this month (March 8) and inside this issue we highlight some of the inspirational work being undertaken in the Duchy.

We meet Nicola O’Donnell, chief operating officer at the National Lobster Hatchery. Her role is particularly varied – from managing an important conservation charity and its educational and scientific work, to running a popular tourist attraction. But her energy and enthusiasm is certainly having a positive impact as the charity approaches its 25th anniversary.

Rachel Koerner celebrates some of the women shaping our food and drink industry here in Cornwall, while on page 32 we profile eight ‘ones to watch’. And in keeping with the flavour of this month’s issue, Just a Thought comes from Cornwall-based ethical chocolate pioneer, Sara Castañeda.

Also, inside this month’s issue, we review the state of the property market here in Cornwall and hear from some the sector’s key players.

The year is rattling along already. It seems only five minutes ago I was signing off with a Happy Christmas but here we areHappy Easter!

What are your hopes for the holiday-season year ahead? Are you anticipating a good summer? And how does an early Easter affect your plans and expectations?

The big question

www.bestplacestoworkincornwall.com

LINDSEY SKINNER

National Maritime Museum

For many, Easter signifies the start of the main season in Cornwall, and the museum is no exception. We become busier and with that comes a gear change in our focus, and a renewed buzz amongst the team. An early Easter means this happens sooner - recruitment, training and planning

all has to be done earlier. Relatively, we’re a small but ambitious team and as the main season approaches everyone chips in where they can. So much effort goes into creating an exceptional visitor experience and there’s nothing better than seeing people in the museum enjoying themselves. I’m hopeful the main season will be good for us - we have all the right ingredients in place for it to be a success.

EMMA BENNEY

Scarlet & Bedruthan Hotel

We are excited for the year ahead but under no illusion that 2024 will be an easy one. 2023 gave us some good insight into how our guests are booking and what they are looking for and we have adapted accordingly. The seasonality of our business is certainly less apparent than

it used to be. We have developed a mix of business that is as much about engaging with our more local communities and those in the south west region as it is with guests travelling from further afield and this has enabled us to achieve and sustain strong occupancy year round.

We know that our guests crave authentic, quality and personalised experiences and delivering exceptional hospitality is more important than it has ever been. This doesn’t mean we have radically changed what we are doing, we are simply putting our guests at the heart of our business planning and evolving a value driven offering to meet their needs. We developed and began promotion of our 2024 offering early, leveraging our brand partners and forming strong local collaborations to support our outreach. Considering this, 2024 has started very positively and we do anticipate that it will be a good year, despite an early Easter.

CLARE BOND

Lanhydrock Hotel & Golf Club

The coming 2024 season is looking good with healthy bookings here at Lanhydrock Hotel and Golf Club, across the hotel rooms, functions both social and corporate and the golf course. We are busy with recruitment for the re-opening of the bedrooms, taking on more housekeeping and waiting team members and more greenkeepers to complete the spring work. After three difficult years, our turnover has returned to pre-covid levels and there is optimism in the air. We are eagerly (and patiently) awaiting news on our planning application to expand the business with some low-rise self-catering lodges, which we feel will complete the business model and give year-round employment to more Bodmin residents.

LUCY JONES

The Cornish Food Box Company

An early Easter is always welcome for us, and our network of Cornish food & drink suppliers. In addition to our yearround local customers, we work closely with holiday cottage agencies providing groceries and welcome packs for their guests. Visitors buying local food is an important boost for our producers where the winter months can often be difficult.

After the turmoil of the past few years, we are looking forward to a positive 2024. The importance of sustainably produced local food to our health, environment and communities is at last starting to be properly recognised. Our focus this year is going to be on telling the stories of our suppliers and why where your food is from really matters.

SARAH LAST St Moritz Hotel & Cowshed Spa

I am personally really excited about the upcoming summer season. In June, we will launch our major £2+ million spa renovation, which is set to be one of the best wellness offerings this side of Bristol. Not surprisingly, the booking trend this year continues to be ‘last-minute’ with many guests booking to come over a weekend just a few days in advance. Some beautiful weather can exacerbate this trend with guests deciding to spontaneously come down on a last-minute basis. Afterall, when the sun is shining, there is nowhere better to be than here in Cornwall.

An early Easter could be considered a challenge due to potentially uncertain weather and it being so close to February half term but we are ultimately feeling confident that we will have a successful season. We recently ran a recruitment day which was very well attended and our passion for allowing our teams a work/life balance this summer will hopefully ensure we hire the best the region has to offer. Overall, we are looking forward to a fruitful 2024.

STUART BEVERIDGE St Michael’s Resort

It’s going to be a good ‘un. We’ve seen higher demand for the summer season already this year, both for hotel and in particular self-catering getaways. Cornwall’s pull on the UK staycation market remains strong and is trending ahead of the same point last year. So I’m very optimistic, not just for the peak season, but for the entire year. We’ve also noticed a slight shift in the booking window, with guests more likely to book ahead than last year (which was extremely last minute!). An early Easter helps with that, as we often find our ‘summer’ season begins immediately afterwards.

A bit more sunshine this year would be the cherry on top!

SPONSORED

CLEAR FLOW UNDER NEW OWNERSHIP

South west drainage specialist Clear-flow Ltd has been sold to Lanes Group Plc following a competitive sales process led by PKF Francis Clark.

A SWEET SUCCESS STORY

A Cornish confectioner is planning a major expansion after securing an investment of £852,573 from the Cornwall and Isles of Scilly Good Growth programme.

Bodmin-based Buttermilk started life as a traditional fudge shop in Padstow in 1964. Now, 60 years later, the business has pioneered a range of dairy-free chocolate bars that are stocked by major retailers and wholesalers across the UK and sold online.

With sales growth of 225% for its ‘plantpowered’ confectionery including a growing export market, the brand is embarking on a major expansion. The £930k project will see Buttermilk consolidate and expand two production units onto one site at its Bodmin base, seeking to create 14 jobs in the future and doubling production capacity.

The 420 square metre factory extension will include solar panels on the roof and a heat recovery system to reuse heat extracted from refrigeration for hot water and cleaning, significantly reducing the factory’s carbon footprint.

Tracy Goad, who acquired the business back in 2010 along with husband David, said: “We are deeply appreciative of the grant funding which is going into our kitchen expansion to increase our capacity to meet the growing demand for our hugely successful and innovative plant-powered chocolate bars.”

A subsidiary of Goonvean Holdings, St Day-based Clear-flow operates across Cornwall, Devon and Somerset, employing around 100 people.

Plans to create a new Sports Hub at Langarth Garden Village have been given the go ahead by Cornwall Council’s strategic planning committee.

Located next to the Langarth Park and Ride on land formerly earmarked for the Stadium for Cornwall, Truro Sports Hub will provide the new permanent home for Truro City Football Club who are currently playing their home matches in Taunton, as well as provide community facilities for use by the community and other local sports clubs.

Welcoming the decision to grant permission, Dulcie Tudor, Cornwall Councillor for Threemilestone & Chacewater, said: “We’re getting four things delivered on the former stadium site. A football ground for Truro City Football club, who’re finally coming back home. A community football pitch so Threemilestone Football Club who’ve had to play and train in Truro can come home too. And within a year we’ll be seeing plans for a building that

It provides a variety of services, ranging from tankering to drain unblocking and CCTV drainage surveys, principally to commercial customers including South West Water.

Headquartered in Leeds, Lanes Group is a national drainage company providing services for utility, rail, local government, transportation, construction, telecoms and domestic sectors.

Matthew Gazzard, MD of Goonvean Holdings, said: “We received interest from a potential buyer and decided to use PKF Francis Clark to run a full sales process. During the process, the team introduced other potential names, were able to enhance the offers received and helped to negotiate a successful transaction.”

Legal advice to Clear-flow was provided by Rob Ridd and Megan James of Clarke Willmott.

will be both a clubhouse for Truro City FC and a community centre with enough space for indoor sports. What’s not to like?”

Construction of the main pitch and the temporary buildings required to enable Truro City to use the pitch for the start of the 2024/25 football season, subject to FA approval, are due to be completed by the end of the current season. Plans to provide a permanent club house and facilities, as well as community rooms on site, will require funding to be identified from a variety of other sources and a separate planning application for that element is expected in the coming months.

GREEN LIGHT FOR SPORTS HUB

The Prima Bakeries Group has completed its transition to becoming an employeeowned business.

The company, which incorporates Redruthbased Prima Bakeries and St Columbbased Cornish Premier Pasties, lays claim to being the fourth-largest producer of Cornish Pasties in the world and the largest locallyowned producer in Cornwall.

The new Employee Ownership Trust (EOT) forms a legal structure encompassing over 150 employees. MD, Mark Norton, says the transfer of ownership secures the future of the business and forms part of a long-term succession plan.

“We have always been proud of being a family-owned and run Cornish business and this feels a great way of extending the ‘family’ to include all our staff,” he said. Day-to-day management of the group

Falmouth-based Inyanga Marine Energy Group has been contracted to build south east Asia’s first ever tidal power generation plant.

The site will be at the remote island of Capul in the Philippines, along the San Bernardino Strait, a passage well-known for the strength of its marine currents.

The contract - for engineering, procurement and construction - has been

FROM FALMOUTH TO PHILIPPINES

EMBRACING EMPLOYEE OWNERSHIP FOR PRIMA

will continue under the existing directors and management team. Four trustees will manage the new EOT on behalf of all employees and will oversee staff bonuses arising from future profits. Isca Ventures acted as the lead corporate finance adviser for the transaction.

Meanwhile, Cornish energy company Blue Flame is set to go down a similar road after founders Mark Bolitho and Paul Smith announced their retirement.

This transition to employee ownership will take place from April, with long-standing employees Matt Dennison and Grant Doe being appointed as company directors.

awarded by Energies PH Inc, through its affiliate, San Bernardino Ocean Power Corporation.

The 1MW project, which is expected to deploy in late 2025, will use Inyanga’s innovative HydroWing tidal stream technology. CEO Richard Parkinson said: “We are looking forward to working with Energies PH on the delivery of this transformational project for the region.”

NEWS IN BRIEF

Boardmasters has been granted permission from Cornwall Council to increase the capacity at its festival this year. Numbers will rise from 53,000 to 58,000 for the festival (Aug 7-11) which this year will feature headliners Stormzy, Chase & Status and Sam Fender.

Geothermal Engineering Limited (GEL) has started construction work at the United Downs site to bring its geothermal power and lithium extraction plants into full operation. GEL expects the work to be completed by the summer, with the first power production set for Q4.

Seasalt Cornwall has announced a partnership with Cornwall Pride for 2024. The charity is the biggest LGBTQ charity in Cornwall and holds its Falmouth Pride event in Seasalt’s hometown in April. Executive sponsor for inclusion at Seasalt, Amy Thom, said: “Cornwall Pride is a vibrant event that supports marginalised and underrepresented communities in Cornwall and we’re delighted to be an official sponsor this year.”

Liskeard-based renewable energy expert, ZLC Energy Ltd, has been awarded B Corp status. MD Matthew Shepherd said: “Achieving B Corp certification shows ZLC Energy’s clear understanding of the wider benefits of green energy solutions, and its dedication to making a positive impact to the triple bottom line of profit, planet and people.”

According to Begbies Traynor’s ‘Red Flag Alert’, which monitors the financial health of UK companies, more than 1,700 companies in Cornwall are now classed as being in “significant” economic distress. High interest rates and inflation, alongside weak consumer confidence and rising and unpredictable costs, are highlighted as the key factors. This represents a quarterly increase of 6.7%, and an annual rise of 16.3%.

Moorfields Advisory has been appointed to oversee the North Quay Development in Hayle after developer Corinthian went into administration. A spokesman for Moorfields said: “We understand the importance of the regeneration project to the residents of Hayle. The project team will therefore facilitate the delivery of the development in accordance with the planning consent.”

More than just the show

Why the Royal Cornwall Pavilion Centre offers more than Cornwall’s biggest and best-known annual event.

It’s a common misconception that ‘The Showground’ only hosts the Royal Cornwall Show on its 96-acre site, but in fact, it is the biggest dedicated events venue in the Duchy, hosting small, intimate meetings, to nationally recognised expos and events.

Located in the centre of the showground, just like the crowning jewel it is, the Royal Cornwall Pavilion Centre is a modern, stateof-the-art building, perfect for corporate events of all shapes and sizes.

Here are five reasons why you should consider the Pavilion Centre for your next corporate event.

1. LOCATION AND ACCESSIBILITY

The Royal Cornwall Pavilion Centre is nestled at the heart of the Royal Cornwall Events Centre, on the outskirts of Wadebridge on the A39. Perfectly positioned centrally in the county. So, whether you have attendees from Penzance, Plymouth, or beyond, the Pavilion Centre is a great place to gather everyone together.

3. DEDICATED EVENTS TEAM

The venue comes complete with a fantastic and dedicated Events Manager and team, who will help and guide you through every part of your event process; before, during and after, to make sure that you get the most out of your event, and ensure that the day, or multiple days, run as smoothly as possible. The support you receive is so good, they’ll feel like a part of your team.

4. DIVERSITY OF EVENTS

From trade shows, to AGMs, to training days, there is no event that the Pavilion Centre cannot cater for. With a variety of different size rooms, and styles of set up, the possibilities really are endless. The main Tregothnan Hall can seat up to 270 people theatre style, as well as cater for layouts such as dinner, dinner dance, and cabaret style seating.

Perfect for corporate events of all shapes and sizes

The venue is located just a short drive from Newquay Airport, and 30 minutes from Bodmin Parkway Train Station.

Unlike a lot of Cornish Venues, they have an ample amount of free parking to play with, running out of parking space will never be something to worry about.

2. A FULL RANGE OF FACILITIES

Did you know that the Pavilion Centre has several different rooms and break out areas available. This state-of-the-art facility also has a fully equipped professional level, commercial kitchen, and a fully stocked bar, licenced by The Old Inn at St. Breward, delivering a complete service, whatever the event. Their recommended caterers also offer quality and locally sourced meals and buffets for complete event catering.

There is also AV facilities, a screen for video conferencing, and even a hidden dancefloor!

The entire three floors of the building are completely accessible with the use of an internal lift, and no-step front and back entrances.

Venue exclusivity is at the heart of the Pavilion Centre, with many events opting to hire the whole building, with ample parking and its secluded location, it is perfect for businesses not just needing the facilities but wanting a change in scenery too.

Smaller rooms, such as the Antony Room, located above the Tregothnan Hall, is perfect for smaller breakout sessions and more intimate meetings. As well as a range of other small meeting rooms.

The wrap around decking and outside lawn can also provide a beautiful social space for events, with stunning views of the surrounding Cornish countryside, especially in the warmer (and drier!) months.

5. WORKING WITH A TRUSTED ORGANISATION

The Royal Cornwall Events Centre is brought to you by the same organisation as the Royal Cornwall Show, and for over 200 years they have hosted the county’s largest social and business event. This means that you and your event is in the hands of one of the most trusted and recognised event businesses in Cornwall.

All in all, the Pavilion Centre is a diverse and quality venue, equipped to host and deliver top level events for all Cornish businesses, however big or small, in a place that is known for, and celebrates, the best of Cornwall.

Introducing our focus on Cornwall’s hospitality, leisure & tourism sector, Tom Roach, a partner at accountancy firm PKF Francis Clark in Truro, discusses the economic state of the sector.

State of the

nation

When discussing the state of the hospitality industry, some common themes arise. We’ve seen significant cost uncertainty replace the Covid dividend. The only support that remains for the industry now is rates relief, and even that certainty is for a short period. Although there are some other significant pressures facing the industry, there are some positives that are worth considering.

BUSINESS RATES RELIEF SCHEME

THE PRESSURES ON RECRUITMENT

Currently, wages amount to about 36% of turnover on average in the sector. This percentage will likely increase due to the rise in national minimum wages for employees. However, the pressures on recruitment in hospitality and tourism should lessen this year.

Wages amount to about 36% of turnover

In the 2023 Autumn Statement, the Chancellor announced an extension to the business rates relief scheme. The scheme benefits retail, hospitality, and leisure properties. On top of this, they have launched a business rates support package worth £4.3 billion over the next five years. This will protect around 90% of eligible ratepayers up to a maximum cash cap of £110k for a fourth consecutive year.

ADVERTORIAL

The increase in national minimum wage, including for 21 and 22-year-olds, encourages employment in the sector. Now that passing service charges to employees is mandatory, these jobs are more attractive as it boosts disposable income. Whilst this is an optimistic perspective, these are at least costs that affect businesses relatively evenly, requiring an adjustment to prices over the whole sector. This will result in an inevitable widening of the price gap between the budget sector and the quality serviced segment of the industry.

INTEREST RATES

Some hospitality businesses with significant capital bases are facing increased borrowing costs. Unfortunately, unlike wage costswhich are universal - this will affect some businesses more than others. Whilst there has been some reduction in energy costs, wages account for four times more of an average hospitality business’ expenditure. So, together with increased interest rates, opportunities to offer discounts to increase demand appear limited.

OCCUPANCIES IN AN ELECTION YEAR

Summer occupancy levels in 2023 were good, but at other points in the year they were below average. Booking levels towards the end of 2023 for 2024 were reasonably strong, perhaps as a response to improved investment returns. Yet, initial indications suggest that this has not continued into the early part of 2024. This could be due to the public’s worries about mortgage rate rises following the end of fixed rates.

MAKING TOURISM WORK FOR CORNWALL

Natalie Semley, senior lecturer in sustainable tourism management, Cornwall Business School, Falmouth University.

It’s time to bridge the gap between aspirations and actions, between individual organisations, and between people and

place. We can do this by focusing in on sustainability, working in partnership, and by sharing our collective voice, to demonstrate

Historically, UK general elections tend to be around the spring. With this, we used to encounter intriguing occupancy statistics, as people preferred to remain at home to vote. This is presumably going to be less of an issue this year if the Prime Minister is going to maximise his time in 10 Downing Street. November is being touted as the most likely time for the election, which is not such a significant time for the industry.

PREPARING FOR THE NEAR FUTURE

Competition will be significant and bookings will likely be delayed until more certainty returns as people get used to their new cost

that the Cornish tourism industry doesn’t have to cost the Earth and we can offer less impact without a loss to the experience.

Sustainability requires aspiration and action. To be sustainable, we can personalise it and make a business case for change. In practice, this means you need to shift your mindset by consciously avoiding “either-or scenarios” (i.e., make a profit or reduce waste), and understand the world from a “both-and” thinking perspective (i.e., reduce waste to increase profit margins). This will allow you to find creative and innovative solutions - something which our BA (Hons) Sustainable Tourism Management students regularly practice.

bases. However, the pandemic showed that people were reluctant to forego a holiday completely, so a short break to the Westcountry in the second half of the year is potentially looking more attractive. With this in mind, consider your unique selling point and be generous with telling your business’ story. Focus on garnering customer buy-in by enhancing your product premiumisation.

CONSIDER VARIOUS SCENARIOS

Now is a good time to give your business a health review. Check that it has the best and correct structure to ensure tax efficiency and longevity. Reviewing expenditure and

Along your journey, you also need to share your story. Provide your network with honest insights and advice. Use social media to relate and resonate with your customers, encourage them to act responsibly.

At Falmouth University, we are exploring the impact of digital storytelling on behaviour by analysing the influence of local stories on individual actions. One project, centred around the Newquay Discovery Trail, is facilitating a datadriven evaluation at the local level and it is enabling the town to re-connect people with planet via the arts, culture, and heritage of place. It is also offering an immersive experience, at low impact, to visitors.

comparing with others might be useful. Investing in your business whilst corporate tax is at 25% is more valuable at all levels. So, anyone looking at large capital expenditure in the next few years should consider how best to optimise this expenditure.

From April, full expensing for companies within the charge to corporation tax investing in plant and machinery will be permanent. This is particularly good news for hotels. The measure is designed to stimulate business investment in plant and machinery by increasing the tax relief available. The amount of expenditure that can qualify for this measure is uncapped. This means that the more you invest now, the greater the potential tax savings.

It is always important to plan ahead and consider various business scenarios. If this is something that your professional advisers can help with, we suggest seeking help early.

CONCLUDING THOUGHTS

Whilst the last few years have caused a tremendous upheaval in the industry, the underlying product offered by hospitality in Cornwall and the south west remains incredibly strong and is of high quality. Although opportunities surrounding flexible working and investment income are available, they are threatened by inflationary pressures that, in this sector, are likely to be significant for at least another 12 months.

At PKF Francis Clark, we have a team of accountants and business advisers who specialise in the hospitality, hotels, leisure and tourism sector. To find out more, please email tom.roach@pkffrancisclark.co.uk or call 01872 276477.

But we’re not doing this in isolation, we’re collaborating and co-creating with GeoTourist, Blystra Arts and Visit Newquay. Our goal is to be able to measure engagement, and steer future decision making in Cornwall.

Collaboration enables us to achieve our sustainability goals – are you ready to make tourism work for you?

With two new vessels in the pipeline, ISSG is taking long-term decisions for Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly.

January marked an illustrious moment in the history of the Isles of Scilly Steamship Group (ISSG) and more importantly, for individuals, communities, and businesses across the region. Signing contracts with shipbuilder Piriou, which will see two brand new vessels enter service in 2026, brings stability and certainty to the lifeline link the company provides, and allows businesses to plan for the long term.

The journey towards new vessels started in 2019. Whilst there is rightly much love and affection for the Scillonian III and the Gry Maritha (the two ships currently serving the route) they are both in urgent need of replacement. The Scillonian was launched in 1977, and whilst the Gry is slightly her junior having been launched in 1981, technology has moved on significantly.

A new

horizon

New vessels will be able to take advantage of significant advances in technology, such as propulsion systems and vessel stabilisation. Both vessels will be quicker, more comfortable and significantly improve the reliability of the route, at a time when consistency and certainty are most needed.

ISSG has worked with expert marine architects and invested heavily in its own teams here in the south west, to ensure the company has the expertise, knowledge and skill to provide vessels that are attuned to the very particular needs of the region.

Indeed, as a major employer in Cornwall and the islands, putting in place a plan that would secure long-term skilled jobs (and enable thousands of others) has been a crucial part of the company’s overall mission.

ISSG’s vessels provide two vital functions for businesses in Cornwall and the islands.

Scillonian III transports over one-hundred thousand visitors a year (many of whom spend money on the Cornish mainland prior to boarding bringing economic benefits far beyond the Isles of Scilly themselves) whilst the Gry Maritha delivers vital freight supplies to and from the islands year-round.

Each of these objectives is of equal importance, and it is only by running the business holistically – alongside its Skybus airline – that ISSG can provide an integrated transport solution for the islands.

The Gry Maritha delivers freight three times a week all year round carrying almost anything you can imagine to and from the islands. Whether that be frozen and chilled goods

to stock up the shops on Scilly; or heavy machinery and the building supplies needed for any construction project, the company has seen it all.

The ships also deliver freight from Scilly to Penzance, with many island-based businesses using ISSG’s services to send produce such as flowers, fish and other items to the mainland. Through the contract with Royal Mail, the ships and Skybus also provide year-round postal services to and from Scilly.

the route, it has provided millions of pounds of economic impact to Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly. And that’s not a responsibility that is taken lightly by ISSG, one of the reasons why investing in these new ships was so vitally important.

An integrated transport solution for the islands

Being based in Cornwall (having a head office in Penzance and a registered office in St. Mary’s) the company has always had an excellent relationship with other businesses in the region.

part of the company’s overall strategy moving forwards. The company is an active member of the local chamber of commerce and always seeking to build new links with Cornish businesses, helping to support the local economy.

ISSG’s long-term commitment to the region is its strength. Linking Cornwall and Scilly is its sole reason for being, a fact which necessitates decisions to be taken for the long-term good.

In the 103 years that ISSG has been serving

ISSG working in partnership with businesses in Cornwall and the islands is an important

When the new ships are brought into service in 2026, they will bring additional and ongoing benefits to the area, and the company looks forward to serving the vital link for another hundred years to come.

Rachel Koerner celebrates the women shaping our food and drink industry. Our culinary

Cornwall

Those of you who know me are probably aware that I am all too orientated around the next meal. Whether I’m cooking at home, enjoying food with friends, or eating at one of the many incredible cafes or restaurants we have across Cornwall, I am spoilt for choice for delicious produce and ‘foodie’ experiences.

From my morning brew to an evening out, Cornwall brands never fail to captivate my attention and my tastebuds. With sustainability, food miles, community, innovation, a good back story and above all, quality, on my agenda, it’s heartening that such values are shared by Cornwall’s food and drink scene too.

Writing this for the March issue, I’m also reminded of International Women’s Day on March 8, so it seems fitting to highlight some of the very many inspirational women in the sector I’ve met along the way…

RACHEL KNOWLES

Trink Dairy | trinkdairy.co.uk

When it comes to a business back story, that of Trink Dairy is one of my favourites. The history of the 400-acre dairy farm near St Ives is quite a mooving tale. Trink Dairy is run by Rachel Knowles, with her husband Chris. The farm came to be in Trink in 1960, when their dairy farming ancestors in Leicestershire decided to relocate to Cornwall - and bring their farm with them – on the train. Leaving after the 4.30pm milking, the family travelled through a Thursday night from Leicestershire to St Erth in time for the morning milking, together with their belongings which included 35 dairy cows, seven calves and other animals, for the respectable sum of £363. (Yes, I was curious too; Leicester to St Erth next Thursday night, two standard tickets (or four legs/one cow) £357.)

Fast forward to 2024 and Trink is still the talk of the town. While Chris manages the farm, Rachel manages the dairy and office. Rachel has been integral to developing the business, seeing a demand for selling their virtually unprocessed milk direct from the farm to the public and local businesses.

Looking ahead to next chapter, Rachel says: “I am proud to have diversified our business by selling our premium milk and at the same time future-proofed our business for the next generation. There are opportunities, too, for our three daughters. Our girls have all thrived off growing up on the farm and always considered coming home after their studies and travels. The oldest has already joined me running the dairy, our middle daughter is off travelling and discussing the options of returning to the business, and the youngest is at agricultural college and enjoying part-time work on the farm between her studies. The future of Trink Dairy is certainly looking to be dominated by ladies!”

MARTYN’S LAW UPDATE

The wellbeing of staff, customers and guests are vital to making a business a success. Steve Panton, a partner and health and safety specialist at Stephens Scown LLP, explains recent developments relating to The Terrorism (Protection of Premises) Bill, including a further public consultation that has recently been announced.

If passed, the proposed legislation, also known as Martyn’s Law, will apply to a large number of premises and venues across many sectors, including Food & Drink, Tourism, Retail, Hospitality and Leisure.

Martyn’s Law will impose duties on those responsible for publicly accessible “qualifying” premises and venues that have capacity for 100+ people to ensure their premises are better prepared for a terror attack.

ADVERTORIAL

LOU ASTBURY

From Trees | fromtrees.com

Lou Astbury is a mother and founder of From Trees; a company that produces forest grown tea. She holds an MSc in Forestry and was previously a producer for the Natural History Unit of the BBC. From Trees was started as a way of looking differently at forestry in Britain; exploring ways to harvest non-timber products and support more trees on farms in agroforestry systems. The result is a range of teas discovering exciting flavours and positive health benefits from native species such as birch, pine and sea buckthorn. Promoting biodiversity and community is at the core of Lou’s products, which are now innovative and beautiful additions to cafes, delis, kitchens and thermos flasks across Cornwall.

Speaking of her passion for trees, Lou says: “Trees offer us so much aside from timber. Forests should be seen as our larders, medicine cabinets, oxygen givers, soil builders, shelter providers, water purifiers and sacred places. We have co-evolved with

In its current form, Martyn’s Law is aimed at restaurants, bars, visitor attractions, entertainment venues, sports grounds, hotels and holiday parks. Places of worship and buildings wholly or mainly used for healthcare, education or childcare purposes are also included.

Under the proposed law, qualifying premises and events that have capacity between 100-799 people will be considered “standard tier” and premises with a capacity of 800 or more, “enhanced tier” premises. The steps that dutyholders will be required to take will depend on the size and type of the activities taking place, and the proposed penalties for non-compliance are substantial. Up to £10k

them. We are all people of the trees. Through respectful and regenerative harvests, we are honouring the trees, and recognising the incredible health benefits they offer. I would love to see pine needle tea become part of everyday health rituals, in the same way as we might drink lemon and ginger tea. There is huge potential to explore how we work with native plant species in this country and recognise them for the superfoods they are.”

ABI KENDALL-HOBBS

The Cornish Larder | thecornishlarder.co.uk

In Tregony, The Cornish Larder, a producer of preserves and sauces, is entering its sixth year of trading. Founded by former 30 under 30 winner, Abi Kendall-Hobbs, and (her now husband) Jake Kendall, the business is going from strength to strength, launching a second brand - The Cornish Smoke Squadin the summer of 2023, which specialises in flavourful hot sauces.

There’s a sense of community behind so many of the Cornish Larder products. While Abi and

her husband focus on quality, they are also so very aware of the wealth of local and hi-end ingredients they can add to their recipes.

From St Ives Cider featuring in their Spiced Apple Chutney to accompany your cheese board, to their ever-popular Strawberry Jam with Tarquin’s gin providing the best base for clotted cream on your scone, The Cornish Larder brand has become synonymous with high-end and award-winning preserves and sauces. It has even had the First Lady of America’s seal of approval!

“2023 was a record breaking year for us and we’re hoping 2024 will be the same,” enthuses Abi. “We are currently looking in to investing in more automated machinery to help us streamline and increase our production capabilities. We’re aiming to launch more limited edition flavours for The Cornish Smoke Squad, and also attend and trade at more shows than ever before.

“If someone had told me, when I moved to Cornwall in 2015 for a degree in photography, that I would go on to run a chutney brand, I’d have most definitely laughed at them!”

for standard tier premises and £18 million or more for enhanced tier premises.

On 5 February 2024, the Home Office launched a six-week consultation, but this is limited to standard tier premises and therefore smaller premises and venues, following concerns raised by the Home Affairs Select Committee about the proportionality, impact and cost of what is being proposed.

Owners and operators of qualifying premises with capacity between 100-799 people have until 18 March 2024 to submit their views.

Access to the online consultation and explanatory note can be found at

https://www.gov.uk/government/ consultations/martyns-law-standardtier-consultation

If you have an enquiry about the Home Office consultation or how Martyn’s Law may impact your business please call 01392 210700 or email s.panton@stephens-scown.co.uk

KATE ATTLEE

Sabzi | sabzideli.co.uk

I feel very lucky to have a Sabzi deli and café in my hometown of Falmouth. Following the success of the Truro site, Falmouth’s high-street seemed like a natural addition to Sabzi’s locations and with the display of vibrant, mouth-watering dishes singing through the windows, it is now an all too difficult place for me to walk past.

With Padstow and Nansledan sites thriving too, founder Kate Attlee is making waves across Cornwall with her delicious Middle Eastern inspired dishes and products. Born in the county and growing up with an Iranian father, Kate developed a passion for culturally diverse flavours, gained Michelinlevel experience in the hospitality industry and a place in the quarterfinals of Masterchef in 2018, before setting up Sabzi.

“Sabzi is a business I’ve built on a real love of food, our industry, and of our customers,” says Kate. “I absolutely love to serve people, and to do so through nourishing and creative food that is conscious of its environmental impact at every stage, feels like a wonderful way to support and become part of, our communities in Cornwall.”

RACHEL BOOTH

Newlyn Fermentary | newlynfermentary.co.uk

Heading west, maker of krauts, kimchis and kefirs, Newlyn Fermentary offers products such as Cornish Seaweed Kraut, and Cortido (a fermented slaw originating from Central America), to a growing fanbase in Cornwall. The founder, Rachel Booth, also regularly runs fermentation workshops and pop-up events from her shop on The Strand in Newlyn.

Responding to the availability of local produce and combining traditional methods and recipes, Rachel is passionate about phenomenal flavours and fewest food miles, or rather metres. With seasonal products such as Smokey Pumpkin Carpaccio with Dulse and Kelp made from 99% locally sourced ingredients, Rachel is rightly proud of her brand.

“When we moved back home in 2020,” she says, “Cornwall provided fertile ground, in more than one way, to set up a Fermentary in Newlyn. I was overwhelmed by the abundance of unique artisan food producers, new places to dine and community gardens, opening the fermentary was a bit of a response to that, coupled with the growing awareness around immunity. I wanted to do something that nurtured my family’s health, supported our community and give me a creative outlet with food.”

CATHERINE MEAD, OBE

Lynher Dairies | lynherdairies.co.uk

Lynher Dairies is one of the most highlyregarded artisan cheese producers in the world and is headed up by Catherine Mead. Catherine’s commitments to Cornwall and its food industry go far beyond leading the team at Lynher Dairies and in 2019 her achievements were recognised when she was awarded an OBE.

Catherine’s passion for heritage, quality and sustainability is evident throughout Lynher’s cheese production and she has recently committed to pursuing B Corp status for the brand.

Talking of her aspirations for the year ahead, Catherine remarks: “We are entering a new phase of development at the dairy. Exemplary product quality remains at the heart of all we do, a consistently outstanding product is the route to buoyant sales, winning awards and being widely acknowledged by our customers as excellent cheese producers.

“As a completely handmade cheese we are absorbed in heritage, culture and provenance. A sense of place is of increasing interest to our customers. That said, we must pay as much attention to our environmental credentials, and indeed to our cheesemaking team and local community.

“These are the main attributes of B Corp which we are embracing enthusiastically with a view to accreditation in 2024.

“We have significantly reduced our energy consumption and introduced solar, effectively managed our waste streams, and reduced our water and plastic use. We have collaborated with Working Woodlands to generate amenity woods at the dairy site and are working to new farming standards that respect biodiversity and work towards Net Zero.”

After a difficult year in the tourism industry, Coodes’ associate, Steph Marsh, outlines the legal considerations for those businesses using casual workers.

Casual

conversations

Although poor weather and rising costs have been blamed for the drop in visitors to Cornwall last year, tourism continues to be a mainstay of the Cornish economy.

The sector generates billions of pounds for the region and supports tens of thousands of jobs. Of those, a significant proportion are filled by causal staff, and for good reason, as they provide support to businesses on an adhoc basis during peak season.

But while the use of casual workers has quickly grown in the UK, legislation still hasn’t quite caught up. This means there is still no clear definition for a ‘casual worker’, and even then, it’s difficult to establish whether the employment relationship is that of an employee or a worker. This must be a key consideration for businesses and at Coodes we support businesses across the region with this difficult line to walk.

WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS OF USING CASUAL WORKERS?

• Increased flexibility: you can use casual workers when needed. Given the seasonal nature of tourism, you don’t have to employ staff on a full-time basis and you can recruit to fill busy periods.

• Notice period: generally you don’t need to give much notice to casual workers when you want them to work, so they can be on hand at short notice.

• Reduced overheads: you don’t need to employ permanent staff all year round if not required.

WHAT ARE THE ISSUES WITH USING CASUAL WORKERS?

• Becoming employees: depending on the relationship created, workers may become employees, giving them enhanced employment rights, such as statutory redundancy pay.

• Holiday pay: calculating holiday pay for those without set hours can be problematic.

• Availability: while the flexibility can be beneficial, on the other hand you may not have the required amount of staff when you need them, as they often don’t have an obligation to work.

• Benefits and pay: casual workers are still entitled to National Minimum Wage and need to be enrolled in any relevant pension scheme.

• Dismissal: even though casual workers have less protection when it comes to dismissal, care should still be taken when looking to terminate the relationship as various discrimination protections can apply.

WHAT DO EMPLOYERS NEED TO DO?

If you are a business that uses casual workers, there are a few things you should consider:

1 Ensure that the contract is drafted to avoid uncertainty as to the employment status. Treating staff as having the wrong type of employment status can be costly.

Coodes Solicitors, one of the south west’s longest established and leading law firms in Cornwall and Devon, supports businesses to manage the use of casual workers. If you need some friendly advice or would like to organise a free contract review, call Steph Marsh on 01579 324 017 or email steph.marsh@coodes.co.uk

2 Review any casual worker contracts regularly, as the employment status of a worker can change over time, as the employment relationship grows. The Coodes team is currently offering a free, no obligation contract review.

3 Ensure that the basic employment rights that casual workers are entitled to are granted, such as National Minimum Wage, rest breaks and sick pay.

CEO

We meet Nicola O’Donnell, a passionate and dedicated force behind the conservation, research and education activities at The National Lobster Hatchery in Padstow. As chief operating officer, Nicola now plays a pivotal role in the hatchery’s mission to protect and replenish lobster populations and manage one of Cornwall’s most valuable tourist attractions.

With a valuable career path, predominantly in tourism and hospitality, we discuss Nicola’s inspiring journey, exploring the vital work she and her team are doing as the hatchery approaches its 25th year.

O’Donnell

What attracted you to join the Lobster Hatchery?

I had spent many years working in hospitality, particularly the luxury side - high end homes, high end wineries, high end hotels. And it got to a point where I was obviously working really hard, but I wanted it to be for good rather than just for people enjoying themselves! I wanted all this hard work and effort be for a good cause and for something that maybe had more meaning.

And the job here still ticks some of the hospitality boxes but with a charitable side as well.

From the outside looking in, when I was going for the role, I was like “this is a smaller team than I’ve managed, it’s a smaller operation, this looks great”. Not easier, but a smaller scale. And then when you get into it and you see all the different areas that the charity is involved with, the partnerships, running a tourist attraction, running a big research arm of the charity, all the educational outputs, all of the big fundraising events, it all has a bigger, wider reach. It’s more complex than I thought and that’s probably why I’ve enjoyed

it so much, because I like a challenge. I like to keep mixing things up!

Looking through your career history, many roles are linked but one that jumps out is Bupa, which wasn’t.

No, that was completely different! I had reached a point where I was fatigued with people having problems in the hospitality industry. And by problems, I mean, no problems. I think everyone in the hospitality industry understands this and I think you get to that point where you’re just like, “this isn’t a real problem.” So, I decided to enter the healthcare industry in 2019, in a management position. And then of course, Covid kicked off. I was just starting to get my head around dentistry and running a medical practice when we went into a pandemic. Over the next two and half years, it became the most stressful, but steepest, learning curve. The amount I learned was huge and I wouldn’t be able to do this role now without having done that.

compared to working at Bupa, it’s not that stressful, you can deal with it. Working in healthcare gave me that perspective. Now I think, “Wait a minute, let’s look at this. We can deal with this.”

Did you reassess hospitality after your time at Bupa?

I wanted all this hard work and effort be for a good cause

I learned so many new skills but it also put everything into perspective. I was working in a management position, not doing the day to day healthcare work, which is far more difficult. And this is no criticism of Bupa, it just was a stressful situation for everyone involved. One of the most beneficial things to come out of that is that now, in this type of role, you have to be constantly balancing a million different things, but actually,

Funnily enough, I missed it. Bupa is the only really large corporation I’ve worked for. I suppose that goes a bit hand in hand with most of my career having been in Cornwall. I wanted to try it and I learned a lot, but I don’t think it was really for me. I’m not even a particularly good patient! I prefer being more creative and having more of a personal approach to things, so I knew working for a big corporate wasn’t for me. And yes, I did miss hospitality, and the food and drink side of it particularly. But then when I went back into it, I thought it would be everything and more. I spent a year running a winery and while I loved it, it just wasn’t me. Two and a half years of Covid had given me time to consider the next career move and I was just looking for something, I don’t know…different. And now here at the Lobster Hatchery, this is a much more purpose-driven job role and it’s for a huge host of stakeholders which I think is a better fit for me.

I think I might have seen it advertised on LinkedIn. I think it’s safe to say I was probably a bit of a curveball! All of my predecessors were male and had science experience, whereas I had none.

CEO feature & cover photographs by Toby Weller

So, what is it that clinched the job do you think?

I think it was for change. The charity had survived through some challenging times but I think they’d realised that with next year being the 25th anniversary for the Lobster Hatchery, they wanted someone that had a bit more experience in terms of shouting about the work here. I think they wanted someone that could come in with a fresh take and bring a different perspective.

What has been your focus since joining?

Initially figuring out why everything was done the way it has been done, and what everything is. And then loads of changes. We’ve evolved the visitor centre, we’ve launched a new website, we’ve launched a digital guide, we’ve completely redone how we engage the public, changed staff members, changed roles around.

So everything basically, trying to firm up a long-term vision for the charity as well. And obviously driving footfall to the visitor centre, which gets about 40,000 visitors a year, because that’s our biggest source of revenue.

We’re also looking to increase our awareness in Cornwall, because we know from analysis based on the postcodes that we’ve got for Gift Aid, that the percentage of locals was less than 10%. And that’s mad considering we’re a conservation charity that has a direct impact on Cornwall. I asked a lot of friends and family when I joined the business and they had never even heard of the charity!

How does the research and education side of the business sit with the tourism aspect?

A lot of our educational outputs are via the visitor centre. We invite educational groups from nursery right up to PhD students. We always have student placements as well, studying marine conservation, marine biology; sometimes PhD students doing projects. Our current research project is with University of Exeter, which predominantly happens in our Newlyn hatchery which is not open to the public. Their focus is all on the serious work that’s done! The Newlyn site is smaller, more efficient, more effective, and it just focuses on production tied to research projects, analysis etc.

What is the core purpose of the charity’s work?

In terms of the protection side of charity, the conservation project, we stock enhance the population of European lobsters. We work with a group of about 20 fishermen. All around the coast of Cornwall, the Marine Management Organisation gives specific licenses to land a berried hen, which is a pregnant lobster. In 2017 there was a berried ban; previously fishermen were able to land them when pregnant, but now they’re not.

So that had quite a big impact on how many broods we got in. Now we have licensed fishermen to do that purely for the purpose of the project. So, they bring them in already pregnant, we have them in the hatchery, they’re pregnant for nine months. We monitor them, doing weekly checks, and then once they hatch, we rear them through the vulnerable stages.

In the wild, only one in about 20,000 would survive, but approximate figures on being raised through the hatchery is 1000 times more than that. We basically raise them through the first vulnerable development stages. When they’re born, they essentially float around like plankton, so everything would eat them - their own mother, their brothers and sisters, everything would eat them, everything is a predator. We grow them to a stage where they are able to bury down into the natural habitat which protects them. We then release them back into the wild through three methods. Via boat release; a long funnel where we can release them straight down onto the seabed. We also work with a group of dive schools so they take them out in trays and release them straight down into the seabed. Or we do it as part of our education output, engaging the general public where we invite people to come and help us release on rocky shores. We decant the lobsters into little pots and get people directly involved in the conservation side of it.

Where does Cornwall rank in lobster fishing compared to other parts in Europe and the UK?

Some of our fundraising partners export all across the world. The European lobster is an extremely valuable product and is having quite a big impact on a lot of the fishing harbours and fishermen in Cornwall and their families. So yes, it’s worth millions to the local economy. The UK market is worth something around £40 million, and about £4.5 million in Cornwall.

You are also a director with the Cornwall Association of Tourist Attractions.

Yes, I was voted onto the CATA board last March. It’s similar to a charity. We have four board meetings a year plus a strategy day. And we are responsible for the overriding strategy and HR for the organization.

What are the main challenges the sector is facing?

In recent years, it’s been the cost of living and the fact that people can now travel internationally again. And Cornwall has had a pretty bad reputation in the press for being overpriced and busy. So huge challenges.

what Cornwall needs. But we still see these huge condensed periods, where everyone comes all at the same time. And what we really need as a county is for them to spread it out and expand that season, because recruitment for the tourist industry is a nightmare - being able to staff things for a couple of weeks here and a couple of weeks there and then nothing. And planning your business around the weather is always challenging!

Is recruitment one of the biggest issues?

The UK market is worth something around £40 million, and about £4.5 million in Cornwall

Straight after lockdown there was a sudden boom and then things settled down. Are we now back to pre-pandemic levels?

Not yet, no. Although, I think it will get there this year. I think the really good weather at the beginning of last summer helped. I think the seasons are getting wider, which is

Not so much for us. We’re fortunate because people are so enthusiastic about the charity and really want an opportunity to work in conservation. And there’s not a lot of opportunities in Cornwall to work directly with conservation.

But for the wider tourism industry, hugely. It’s not only really difficult to recruit for those sorts of positions, but also it’s difficult to staff because the trends are forever changing. And knowing how many staff you’re going to need for an attraction like the Jubilee Pool in Penzance - when they have torrential rain, no one is going to be there.

If you are busy or not on a particular day, weather plays a huge part. I spent many years working on a private beach in Newquay –Lusty Glaze – and the amount we used to talk about the weather! I still now put the weather next to what we’ve made every day.

It was either all or nothing. And I suppose Padstow itself is all or nothing. It’s a spectacular harbour town but it doesn’t have that in between footfall, it is either no one here or totally busy. The visitor centre is open all year round, but it is either no one or everyone. There’s no middle ground at all in Padstow which can be very frustrating. I think other towns have a more collaborative way of driving footfall and interest in the offseason. Falmouth springs to mind with their Oyster and Sea Shanty Festivals. In Falmouth, we just see a lot more things for people to get involved with. I know Rick Stein does an awful lot to push Padstow on his various TV programmes, but there’s nothing collaboratively bringing people in during the quieter months.

The charity sector in Cornwall must be so competitive at the moment?

There are hundreds and there are some, particularly in Cornwall, great organisations as well. There’s so much good happening and so many different ways people can be involved with different charities, so yes, it is hugely competitive. And lobsters are not as cute as seals and those damn hedgehogs!

We’re very lucky though, we have a lot of organisations that work in the seafood industry including some lovely restaurants and fish merchants and other people that are just really big fans of marine conservation and lobsters.

We’ve completely redone how we engage the public

But in the height of summer, when it’s rammed with visitors, doesn’t that provide its challenges for your core work with the lobsters?

April to September is not only peak tourist season, it is also peak production season, which yes, has its challenges. It’s full on, but it’s also great because it means that there’s lots going on for the visitors to see.

How many people do you employ? I assume numbers go up in the summer?

Yes, we do take more on in the peak season. But then our staffing also depends on which research projects we are doing. We have a project currently that will run until September and we have research technicians that are employed purely for the project. At the moment we are about 15 and then we have volunteers as well.

During the last 12 months, we have really been concentrating on being more visible - attending events, networking, just making sure people meet us and start those awareness conversations, and then build on that. We went to the Royal Cornwall Show for the first time and we did a talk at the Porthleven Food Festival. Just going to all these events and being visible in the local community.

Would you say the Lobster Hatchery is now more visible than it’s ever been?

I think so. And that’s not just my opinion, it’s what everyone over the last six months or so has been saying to me. I’m like a dog with a

bone! To do a role like this, you have to have the energy, the creativity, and you have to be determined to see it through till the end.

Would it be fair to say you’ve probably stuck your head over the parapet more than some of your predecessors?

Completely. We couldn’t be more different. My last predecessor is still in the business as a finance manager, and we could not be more different, but he could not be more supportive of me in this role. So yeah, I’m not afraid to mix things up and try things. Not everything is going to work, but we’ll just keep trying anyway.

And what do you enjoy most in your role?

Someone asked me last week what my day involved and it was going from a research meeting for a project in the Bahamas, to organising an art exhibition, to then sorting out paint for the visitor centre. It is just so varied and the conversations that I have are just so different from one to the next, I can’t possibly get bored!

The property

review

Jonny Bright, a business property specialist with Miller Commercial, casts his eye over the commercial property sector in Cornwall while Peter McGahan, CEO at Worldwide Financial Planning, offers his commentary on the housing market.

COMMERCIAL MARKET

As 2024 begins to take shape we find many of the same headlines, that the high street continues to decline, that hospitality offerings are shutting at an alarming rate and businesses as a whole are shrinking.

However as chartered surveyors and business property specialists, we see a different story. Whilst there are business contractions and some occupiers looking to rationalise the space they occupy, we also see growth as new businesses and entrepreneurs emerge, offering new opportunities to consumers.

In the last few months alone, we have seen numerous success stories. The Old Grammar School, long an iconic venue in the Truro hospitality sector, has seen Bodega-18 expand its group by opening Boho-18, an Asian inspired fusion venue. Boho-18 beat a number of national and regional operators to secure the lease in November and opened in early February following an extensive re-fit. In the secondary retail pitches in Truro

and other towns across Cornwall such as Falmouth, Bodmin, Wadebridge, Redruth and Penzance, occupiers have been busy taking advantage of those premises with low rateable values and well located units in the best pitches.

And the good news for the local economy? The majority of these occupiers are local businesses, often family run where the traders have a vested interest in seeing their town and high street perform as well as it can, meaning a more diverse and interesting tenant mix than we might have seen a decade ago.

Competition to secure industrial units across the county remains high with the market still dictated by a general lack of supply. Challenges remain to develop new stock as the availability of suitable land is low and new build schemes are being hampered by the recent increase in build costs.

Competition to secure industrial units across the county remains high

The demand for food and drink remains high with a number of new coffee shops appearing in all towns as well as a growth in the bakery market with businesses such as Native Grain, a sourdough bakery which already has quite the reputation in and around Truro opening their first store on Kenwyn St in Truro.

The commercial market remains resilient, and we see encouraging signs of growth and confidence in businesses trying new things.

We work with landlords and tenants to create job opportunities for locals, to support business owners and to make Cornwall as a whole, a place where people can not only work, but be surrounded by a vibrant, diverse and interesting economy that brings people together…

‘A CAUTIOUS APPROACH’

Alder King’s annual Market Monitor reports a “subdued performance” in the commercial property market in 2023, as investors and developers take “a cautious approach to the ongoing economic and geopolitical conditions”.

Commenting specifically on the office market in Truro and surrounding area, the report highlights an increase in supply and drop in take-up. “The market is expected to continue to diverge, with better quality stock maintaining value more than lower quality stock.”

In the industrial and logistics market here in Cornwall, the Market Monitor witnessed an increase in take-up and supply over the past year. “However,” it says, “many applicants continue to find there is limited availability and choice within various locations around the county, particularly on a freehold basis.”

It also notes that the focus along the A30 is likely to strengthen with the current dualling of the highway between between Carland Cross and Chiverton Cross due for completion this year.

HOUSING MARKET

There are many variables to where a housing (or stock) market will go and when it might go there. Trying to call any market is a bit futile, but there are obvious pointers. If you want to excel at that, read Fred Harrison’s ‘Power in the Land’.

Well known agents and financial institutions are forecasting wildly different numbers from -4% to +4%. Your call.

The most reliable tip is just about not buying in times of Euphoria and no matter what, it’s your home. In euphoric times, banks are much more relaxed with their monetary lending, so it’s no surprise that with easy access to borrowing that was not as readily available up to this point, that many jump onto a potential runaway train.

The reverse of all this is equally true. The key is to take as much emotion out of it as possible and look at the facts.

When there is emotional panic, psychologically we freeze or run away. Last year, sellers had decided to wait until ‘everything is okay again’. That may be too late, as there is never a bell at the ‘bottom’.

Undoubtedly prices were lofty in 2022. A good measure of affordability is the house price to earnings ratio. In 2002, the ratio was five times earnings. In September 2022, after the emotional responses to covid and lockdowns, it had soared to 7.8 times, and ‘if there was a bubble, that was it’. It was.

In June last year it had fallen to 6.7 times earnings, as prices had eased and income had risen.

Inflation has had a strong impact, and while it is not being caused by the man on the street, they are footing the inflation bill further compounded by the Bank of England’s (BoE) standard response of ‘increasing rates’.

The BoE is very worried about wage inflation – an economy killer and has ramped up rates to slow spending. Much of these inflation spikes fall out of the year-on-year figures shortly, and so therefore does the pressure on the already falling mortgage rates.

housing markets, but this market is supported in very different ways. For example, just 38% of homeowners have a mortgage. In 2011, 49% of all mortgages were on a variable rate. By November 2021, that had fallen to just 5.1%, meaning that interest rate hikes impact the market much less.

While there has been an increase in interest rates and the returns investors can receive on their capital at the banks or even the gilt market, there is very little return if any, over and above inflation, and this always makes the housing market attractive. Rental income is very strong indeed, with UK rental prices revised upwards from 6.1% to 8.4%.

The key is to take as much emotion out of it as possible and look at the facts

Many comment on what happened in historic

The greatest driver in my 35 years of all ups and downs is sentiment. In its attempt to calm spending, the BoE creates headlines which can create unnecessary paralysis. You need to look through those headlines before they turn if they haven’t already.

4 Bond Street, Redruth

A multi let investment generating £54,000 pa – December 2023

3 ground floor commercial units, with 6 residential flats above in a prominent position near to Redruth station off a guide price of £595,000.

SOLD

Milestone House, Threemilestone, Truro

8,500 sq ft prestigious, modern headquarters office building in a prime position within Threemilestone Business Park – Summer 2023

Split over 2 floors with raised floors, suspended ceilings, over 30 car parking spaces, passenger lift, showers, air conditioning and private garden off an asking price of £1,000,000

November 2023

Centrally located retail investment let to The Works for a term to expire March 2027 off a passing rent of £36,250 pa. Asking price £400,000.

Prosper House, Cardrew Industrial Estate, Redruth

9,000 sq ft office and premises with large car park – Under Offer

Modern office building within close proximity to the A30 benefitting from LED lighting, air conditioning, showers and large yard/car park offerind future development opportunity. Asking price of £1,050,000.

Focus on

Presenting

five experts in the sector.

property

STEPHENS + STEPHENS

Born and bred in Cornwall, with 30+ years’ experience, Stephens + Stephens Group is a multi-award-winning architectural and interior design practice and luxury property developer. With a portfolio that includes 11 significant developments, S+S has outperformed the industry norms, by not just sustaining growth, but thriving. The demand for its meticulously designed Cornish homes has continually increased alongside multiple accolades from the UK Property Awards,

SMART COMMERCIAL PROPERTY

Valuation is the cornerstone of any property transaction and key to the owner, occupier or investor being able to arrive at a sound decision. As a Smart Commercial Property client, you will benefit from the services of a registered valuer. In addition, our many decades’ experience in agency, development consultancy and auctions, offers us powerful insights into unlocking the value of commercial spaces.

Smart Commercial Property also acts for clients on rent reviews, lease renewals and

general landlord and tenant issues, including service charges and disputes.

Tim Smart has over 45 years’ experience in the commercial property sector and his career has taken in positions with some of the world’s leading commercial real estate firms. He returned to Cornwall to head up a department for Alder King before becoming a director at Stratton Creber Commercial and then setting up Smart Commercial Property.

www.stephensandstephens.com

underscoring its excellence in creating design-led, luxurious homes in desirable locations.

All properties are designed with luxury living front of mind and the extensive S+S portfolio contains apartments, Penthouses and sizeable homes, set across the county, all readily available.

01872 300 401 scp.uk.com

timsmart@scp.uk.com

SUCCESSFUL

MARRAUM CHARTERED ARCHITECTS

Marraum is a chartered architects practice located in Penryn, specialising in domestic architectural projects across Cornwall. We’re committed to creating compelling spaces that really connect with the people living in and using them everyday.

We use virtual reality (VR) technology on all our projects, leveraging its potential to enhance your experience of your new space. This allows you to visualise and interact with your future space - sharpening your vision,

testing how your new design works for you and removing uncertainties before you build.

Seeing more than what’s put before us. Giving space the respect it deserves. Our approach is always centred around how we can give more to the people that matter – our clients – while being conscious of the world around us.

LASKOWSKI & CO

At Laskowski & Co, we offer truly personal, commercial property advice.

We advise on the sale, acquisition, valuation, letting and development of commercial property across all sectors in Cornwall and the wider south west.

Our professional services incorporate formal valuations, lease advisory (acting for tenants and landlords for rent reviews, lease re-gears and lease restructures), equity placement, and development analysis.

Laskowski & Co uniquely benefits from an established residential agency department, meaning we can provide genuine insight and access to stakeholders within this sector of the market for conversions and development projects etc. Often in Cornwall, the residential value of your asset will exceed that of any other use.

We manage a select portfolio of commercial property related projects at one time, ensuring we are genuinely invested in our clients, helping secure the lucrative outcomes we have so far achieved.

LAURENCE ASSOCIATES

Laurence Associates is a prestigious, planning-led architectural practice that brings together Chartered Town Planners, Architects, Architectural Technologists and Landscape Architects.

The firm is renowned for its fully integrated approach to development, supported by a team of seasoned professionals who offer knowledge and friendly expertise.

01872 225 259

www.laurenceassociates.co.uk

The practice possesses an in-depth understanding of the complexities inherent to the planning process across all development sectors and has consistently demonstrated a successful track record of approved planning applications for even the most challenging sites for over 30 years.

01326 617007

marraum.co.uk

01326 318813

www.laskowskiandcompany.co.uk

Our access to an international network of investors and operators allows us to elevate your property to the best possible audience.

Meet James Laskowski

James is a chartered surveyor who has gained notable experience advising on the sale and valuation of commercial property across a variety of sectors and geographies.

Having worked for Savills (global head office), Christie & Co (global head office) and BNP Paribas Real Estate (UK head office) respectively, he has acted on large freehold portfolio transactions to small independently owned leasehold business sales across the UK.

A workspace to be

proud of

Are you looking for a stylish, contemporary and modern workspace where you can conduct your business?

Space2Work Redruth - The Park, has a range of new premises that offer a bright and airy feel and a setting where you will be proud to host customers and suppliers.

Space2Work Redruth – The Park is located at Cornwall Business Park West, in Scorrier with 13 units from 1,500sqft to 2,350sqft, which are available to let now, featuring pre-installed mezzanine levels maximising your space and reducing your upfront costs.

Designed and built for small business, workspaces feature high quality materials, contemporary design, sustainable technologies, premium signage and are available in two fit out levels to suit the nature of your business.

Superfast FTTP broadband is also available, all you have to do is choose your provider.

The award-winning Space2Work brand has stylish high-quality spaces that include electric vehicle charging points, Solar PV panels, an on-site property manager, plenty of parking as well as many other sustainable features.

Space2Work is also dedicated to helping the local environment by installing bird and bat boxes, as well as insect hotels to help the local wildlife thrive and minimise the development’s effect on the environment.

Space2Work Redruth – The Park has two finishes available to tenants.

LIGHT

If you’re looking for a simplistic space then Light is right for you. These high-quality, cost-effective workspaces are designed for warehouse or typical light industrial use.

Features of the Light workspace include:

• 6m eaves height

• 5m roller shutter doors

• Power-floated concrete floors

• 3-phase power supply

• 100 amp phase board

• Unisex accessible toilet

• Contemporary high gloss kitchenette

• Mezzanine level with balustrade

• Full electrical fitout including warehouse lights and sockets.

PREMIUM

The Premium workspaces are perfect if you have a more customer-facing requirement, trade counter and are looking for a studio

or showroom space to showcase your business.

Premium workspaces have a set of features creating the perfect contemporary and modern atmosphere.

These features include:

• Resin floors to reception and mezzanine

• Glass balustrade and premium chrome handrails

• Finished mezzanine ceiling with recessed LED lighting

• Extended high gloss kitchenette with LED lighting and glass splashback

• Red edge detail to power floated concrete floor area

• Full electrical fitout including warehouse lights and sockets.

For more details and to enquire about a workspace with Space 2 Work, go to s2w-redruth.uk/thepark or contact Mike Goddard on 01209 500551.

Oneswatch to

POLLY WAITE

Polliander | polliander.com

If you’ve been driving slowly on the Helston road of late, you may have noticed the transformation made at The Old Chapel at Trewennack. Classically trained upholsterer and furniture restorer, Polly Waite, is not afraid of hard graft. Last year she took on the former chapel and set about transforming the space into a workshop and home. In the same way she lovingly and empathetically restores old furniture, she has exercised her skills, design eye, passion and patience to respectfully turn what was a rather crumbling building into a breathtaking hive of activity and creativity. It’s been quite the building project, all the while undertaking commissions and offering a range of restoration and upholstery courses to others. Whilst Polly is more familiar with chairs than most she doesn’t tend to sit down much!

ADVERTORIAL

PHOTO BY: EMMA MACDONALD

As part of our focus on women in business ahead of International Women’s Day (March 8), we highlight eight (of the many), inspirational businesswomen in Cornwall.

EMILY HANKINS

Emily Hankins Cakes | emilyhankins.co.uk

Nestled in a kitchen in the beautiful Princes House in Truro, Emily Hankins makes and paints on cakes. Her exquisite and unique designs are often bespoke to her clients’ interests; be it a multi-tiered cake covered in painted illustrations of a favourite flower, or a pile of edible books looking good enough to read. She regularly features in industry magazines and is invited to tutor and showcase her skills around the world. Crowned Edible Painter of the Year 2023 at the Delicious Magazine Awards, Emily’s prowess is recognised far beyond Cornwall. She has recently returned from Bangalore where she was demonstrating her skills at the Cakeology 2024 festival. One to watch indeed; year on year Emily’s talent and ability continues to astound. Offering online

courses and with nearly 30,000 followers on Instagram, it turns out there’s plenty of people watching her already!

SALLY HARVEY

Cornish Country Cordials | countrycordials.co.uk

Offering award-winning small batch cordials since 2010, Liskeard-based Sally Harvey has been using traditional methods for her recipes and shunning artificial ingredients from the get-go. With beautiful branding by Alexandra House Studio’s, Ali Green (another one to watch in her own right), Sally’s prestigious products complement cocktails as much as they quench a thirst during a dry January. Sally is committed to combining her passion to create delicious recipes with staying true to her values, and with a high-end and established client base, including the likes of

PHOTO: ALI GREEN, ALEXANDRA HOUSE STUDIO

the Duchy Nursery, Rick Stein and The Pig Hotels, we can expect to see Sally’s everfruitful business continue to flourish in 2024.

ANNIE UKLEJA

Miracle Theatre | miracletheatre.co.uk

Annie Ukleja, the MD of Miracle Theatre, is not one to take centre stage, but behind the scenes she has taken a leading role since 2008. For Annie the show must go on, no matter what, and she has directed the theatre company through so much, not least a pandemic. She was integral to securing Shared Prosperity Funding for Miracle in 2023, which has enabled the touring theatre company to make plans for an epic year ahead. With the tour of Hell’s Bells now in full swing and plans afoot for summer and winter shows, Annie is set to keep the shows on the road and the schedule is set to delight audiences from St Just to Swanage.

DIANE AND KATY SOUTH

Prickles and Paws | pricklesandpaws.org

Seven days a week, 365 days of the year, a prickle of hedgehogs is cared for by mother and daughter, Diane and Katy,

Rebecca is passionate about her own venture Tides Business, which compliments her part time role as the Business Support Advisor across the three Cornwall Innovation Centres.

With a sprinkling of ‘tough love’ so you are challenged to be the best version of yourself, Rebecca loves helping business leaders combat their feeling of ‘overwhelm’.

“By looking at their business with fresh eyes,” explains Rebecca, “I can analyse what the problem is, where the gaps are and create a strategy which ensures they grow and are happier in their business, which ultimately leads to having a better-run operation and more profit.”

through the charity they founded in 2013, Prickles and Paws. Between hedgehog rehabilitation and providing educational talks, fundraising is a critical part of their dayto-day. And, with support of their fantastic team of staff, volunteers and trustees, their efforts have paid off with the initial stages of a new ‘hogspital’ now underway. 2024 is anticipated to be a crucial year for the charity. With a lease and planning secured, the new site for Prickles and Paws on the Carnanton estate is becoming a reality; water supply and pilings for the foundations are in and utilities, fencing and septic tank drainage are in progress.

JESSICA LILY CHANCE

Steren School of Ballet | sterenballet.co.uk

Jess Chance had a childhood dream and last year she turned it in to a reality. ‘Miss Jess’ set up Steren School of Ballet with bases in Pool, St Day and Penzance. Having grown up in Cornwall, Jessica attended ballet school in Helston and danced with the Duchy Ballet and Hall for Cornwall Youth Dance. Her extensive ballet teacher training started at the age of 18 when she moved to London to attend the Royal Academy of Dance, eventually moving

To continue momentum, Rebecca keeps business leaders accountable to achieve their goals with ongoing mentoring.

For corporates, she facilitates workshops, creating an environment where peers can share their challenges, learn from each other and go on to work more cohesively.

Rebecca’s sense of humour and infectious positive energy gives business owners the confidence needed to believe they can achieve anything they want.

While working in a professional way, she has been described as a ‘maverick’, believing business should be fun and life is too short to work on something you are not passionate about.

back to Cornwall to share her experience by starting her own ballet school. With classes tailored for pre-schoolers to the over 60s, Miss Jess is en pointe to support fellow dreamers of all ages.

KATE DORAN

Flotsam Flo | flotsamflo.co.uk

Kate Doran has been making waves (or rather cleaning them up) since she started her business, Flotsam Flo, in 2021. Creating bags and accessories from discarded beach inflatables, windbreaks, wetsuits and more, Kate has been a woman on a mission and has garnered much support along the way. She is the face of Biffa’s new Changemakers campaign and last year Biffa provided bins at holiday parks across Cornwall to collect used and discarded inflatables for Kate to repurpose. Biffa has also supported Kate with studio space at its Cardrew site in Redruth, which Kate has made her colourful base for production, as well as a space for ‘make your own’ workshops. Despite an accident at Christmas which saw Kate in crutches, she is no stranger to curveballs as well as beach balls, and it’s a joy to watch her put her best foot forward in 2024.

These beliefs have come about after working abroad for years and enjoying the Latino and Caribbean way of life, giving her experience in the tourism, photography, marine, engineering, legal and property industries. She set up three businesses in Mexico and currently has two in the UK.

“I understand the fine balance between juggling priorities and looking after your well-being, so bring a holistic approach to my work. If you are not fit and healthy or are troubled in one part of your personal life, there is no way you can dedicate your focus to your business.”

Lawyers

for life

Coodes Solicitors, one of the region’s oldest and leading law firms, has built a well-deserved reputation for providing individuals and businesses with exceptional legal services. Its highly skilled and specialist lawyers provide expertise in wideranging and niche areas of legal practice. The company has recently unveiled a bold new expression of its identity to underpin the firm’s growth ambitions and deepen relationships with clients.

Peter Lamble, chairman of Coodes Solicitors, talks about this recent rebrand, their ambitions for growth and how he sees the industry changing.

What key elements of your branding have changed and why?

Our old branding, the black square, was something we’d had for as long as anyone can remember, not quite time immemorial but pretty close! As the region has continued to change, we felt that our logo and imagery no longer adequately reflected who we are as a business or the community we served.

That’s why we decided to introduce a new logo and colour scheme which better reflects who we are, our values and our mission to help people. It is based on the concept of ‘Your Lawyers For Life’. The dot at the centre of the new ‘C’ logo symbolises the client, protected by a strong circle of Coodes support, for all of life’s most significant moments. We’re hugely proud that for a significant number of our clients and their wider families, we are their lawyers for life.

Our clients know they are always in safe hands and that we’ll get them where they need to go. Those values have underpinned the firm from day one and keep us rooted in the communities we serve. Our new design expresses that in a reassuringly confident and welcoming way, with our clients at the centre of everything we do.

Why did you feel that this was the right time to rebrand?

As a growing firm, we also think that our new modern brand will help attract talent that we can nurture and support, aligning with our ethos. Those individuals will help us continue to deliver the high-quality and expert services our clients need and expect.

What are your ambitions for growth in 2024? How does this rebrand align with your ambitions for the business?

We’re ambitious for the firm, our people and our clients. We want to be around for another 275 years and become the law firm of choice for all that matters in life, so we needed a brand which could get us through the long term. During our rebrand journey, we’ve appointed a record number of new business owners, continued to invest in recruiting and training brilliant staff, and modernised the way we work in our offices. That is all central to our ambitions for 2024.

Honing our expertise to do what we do better

In our business plan we’ve challenged ourselves to be ambitious in terms of growth but also the breadth of specialist services we offer. We want to expand our teams so we can better deliver for our clients’ needs, grow the areas where we already excel and increase the services where we see most demand.

the potential of a career in law, fundraising for a range of charities and of course supporting businesses. For us, that has not changed.

We also take our environmental and ethical responsibilities very seriously, which is why we are aiming for B-Corp accreditation, to embed the concepts of environmental and social impact throughout our business. This is a natural progression from work we have already been doing to reduce our carbon footprint and make a positive impact in our community.

How has the business been adapting to industry changes? How do you see Coodes changing in the next five to ten years?

We’ve been really focusing on staff wellbeing. This has always been an important part of our ethos, but post-pandemic this really shot up the priority list.

Looking after our people is more than just paying salaries. We offer benefits from life assurance plans, holiday trading and resources to support wellness. All staff are encouraged to reach their full potential through training opportunities. We’re proud to hold a silver standard with Investors in People, recognised as having a strong positive focus on people’s wellbeing, and this will not change.

We can trace our documented history back to 1747. Two years ago, we celebrated the 275th anniversary of the firm. It provided an ideal opportunity to pause and reflect on who we are, our values and what our clients value most. This cemented our thinking about rebranding.

Coodes is here to help people, everything else is a by-product of that mission. We don’t want our mission and values to just be statements, we want to live by them each day. That is why, for example, our values are verbs, not nouns.

How will this rebrand help you deliver for your clients?

Whilst a large driving force behind our rebrand was about making sure how we saw ourselves as a firm was reflected outwardly, it was also motivated by a desire to deepen relationships with clients. We believe that by better reflecting our corporate personality through our new branding, our clients and community will better see what we stand for and how we will champion them.

But our growth isn’t just about expanding what we do, it’s also about honing our expertise to do what we do better. We’ll be using the benefits of technology to build on the agility programme we’ve already introduced in our offices, which has seen state-of-the-art technology for all our people. Coodes wouldn’t be anything without our people. We employ over 170 lawyers and support staff, and we will be continuing to invest, support and nurture our talent.

How have you continued to invest in the Cornwall and Devon communities?

We’re rooted in our communities of Devon and Cornwall, through our network of eight offices, and remain committed to doing our part to support the region to thrive. Our mission is to have a positive effect on the lives of others and we’re extremely proud of the impact we have on the lives of our staff, clients and the wider community.

We deliver this through holding a number of legal aid contracts, hosting a series of free legal clinics, engaging in initiatives to support young people from all backgrounds explore

We’re already planning for what the legal market might look like in five to ten years, including our clients’ needs and how we will meet them. There are always changes in regulation and governance, but we are also looking at the sector trends that could transform what we deliver and how. Not surprisingly, the biggest of those is AI.

We’re currently in a period of momentous change with AI. We can see the benefits of using AI as part of how we work, such as legal research, which could free up our time to focus on the human side of things. But this doesn’t just have implications for how we work, but also the needs of our clients and we expect to see more legal cases relating to the use of AI. Whilst there is still a long way to go for this technology, we’re making sure we’ll be ready.

If you would like to find out more about what we do or our rebrand, visit www.coodes.co.uk

PAPER LOVES TREES

Based at the Health and Wellbeing Innovation Centre in Truro, {n}.bora carried out the trial in partnership with KHC Groundworks, to showcase the implementation of streamlined construction processes to enhance communication and optimise resource allocation.

The success of this field trial sets the stage for the official launch of the Digital Site Management System later this year and shows KHC Groundworks and {n}.bora’s commitment to reshaping the construction landscape by embracing technology that enhances project outcomes, minimises environmental impact and drives industry innovation.

Commenting on the successful trial, Peter Hastings, Director at {n}.bora said,

“{n}.bora stands for nowydh bora in Cornish, or ‘new dawn’. The mission for our rapidly growing firm is to deliver new dawns for businesses worldwide, using a breadth of experience and knowledge, advanced techniques, and a determination to deliver, regardless of industry vertical or client scale.

“Collaborating with KHC Groundworks on this initiative has showcased our cutting-edge technology combined with their industry expertise, to culminate in a solution that addresses key challenges in the construction sector. We hope this trial marks the beginning of a new era in digital construction management for KHC.”

For more information on Cornwall Innovation, please visit: www.cornwallinnovation.co.uk

In an ambitious move to drive local economic growth and address critical skills shortages, The Cornwall College Group (TCCG) is spearheading a transformative skills initiative.

Skills for

tomorrow

Shaping Cornwall’s future workforce

Leveraging the Department for Education, Local Skills Improvement Fund (LSIF), TCCG is investing in state-of-the-art facilities to deliver pioneering new courses and apprenticeships. These have been tailored to the Local Skills Improvement Plan (LSIP) led by the Federation of Small Businesses (FSB) for Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly priority areas; including construction, retrofit, manufacturing, engineering and marine industries.

This initiative marks a significant investment into Cornwall’s future workforce, with TCCG enhancing its campuses with cutting-edge equipment and resources.

The Camborne site is in the process of having a comprehensive refurbishment of its machine workshop, alongside the acquisition of advanced lathes and milling machines. Similarly, the St Austell campus’s engineering workshop is undergoing significant upgrades.

This investment extends to an array of modern teaching aids, including PLC, automation and control equipment, fluid power kits, mechanical rigs, robotic systems, VR welders and renewable energy demonstration kits, ensuring that TCCG’s training programmes are at the forefront of industry standards.

Lisa Pill, head of projects & partnerships at TCCG, emphasised the impact of these enhancements: “These investments will enable us to offer more high-quality training opportunities to meet local skills needs.”

“Helping to level up the county, to get more people into good jobs closer to home, whilst plugging the skills gaps and growing the economy,” Lisa added.

In an effort to bridge the skills gap, the new courses and apprenticeships have been developed through LSIP insight and TCCG’s own Employer Advisory Boards (EAB).

New apprenticeships include the Low Carbon Heating Technician Apprenticeship Level 3, Refrigeration, Air Conditioning, Junior Energy Technician Apprenticeship Level 3, as well as Heat Pump Technician Apprenticeship Level 3 and HNC Engineering Apprenticeship Level 4. Within the marine sector, TCCG’s Falmouth Marine School have developed a new HNC Super Yacht Level 4 programme.

A range of renewable short courses in solar PV, heat pumps, wind technology and biomass and hydrogen technologies will be available from September 2024. Along with short courses in engineering and motor vehicle including CAD and CNC and Techsafe approved qualifications.

“We have also developed short courses with cross cutting themes for all of the LSIP priority areas including Sustainability, Leadership & Management, Change Management, Conflict Management and HR & Culture,” explained Lisa.

The initiative is a collaborative effort, with Truro & Penwith College leading the LSIF alongside delivery partners TCCG, Cornwall Marine Network and Focus Training who have received a total of £2.5 million to meet employer skills needs identified in the LSIP. Supported by additional funding from the Skills Injection Fund, this partnership also aims to offer an alternative to traditional degree pathways by facilitating access to Higher Technical Qualifications in highdemand sectors such as digital, healthcare and engineering.

To find out more about TCCG’s new courses and apprenticeships, take a tour of their facilities and hear from industry speakers at one of two events on March 12 (2-5pm) at The Fibre Hub, Camborne or on March 21 at Cornwall College St Austell (2-5pm).

To book visit www.ccbtraining.co.uk or email hello@ccbtraining.co.uk

THE AWARD WINNERS AND SPONSORS

EMPLOYER AWARDS

• Large Employer of the Year

– Sponsored by Foot Anstey LLP –Pendennis Shipyard

• SME Employer of the Year

– Sponsored by Cornwall Opportunities –Hiyield

APPRENTICE AWARDS

• Hospitality Apprentice of the Year

– Sponsored by BIIAB –Sarah Hyde-Wear from Fistral Beach Hotel

• Accountancy Apprentice of the Year

– Sponsored by Cornwall Council –Ned Seabourne from Cornwall Group Ltd.

• Construction and Trade Apprentice of the Year

– Sponsored by Fox Construction Solutions –James Angliss from Royal Cornwall Hospitals NHS Trust

• Health, Care and Public Services Apprentice of the Year

– Sponsored by Costain Group –Becki Hirst from Royal Cornwall Hospitals NHS Trust.

• Digital and IT Apprentice of the Year

– Sponsored by University of Exeter –Logan Ford from Hiyield

• Business Apprentice of the Year

– Sponsored by Inn Cornwall Ltd –Matt Toms from Eden Project

• Management Apprentice of the Year

– Sponsored by Imerys –Matt Newman from Watson Marlow

• Marketing Apprentice of the Year –Sponsored by Bull & Wolf –Paige Sambells from Hiyield

• Hair and Beauty Apprentice of the Year

– Sponsored by VTCT –Hope Wishart from Goldbird Hair

• Motor Vehicle Apprentice of the Year

– Sponsored by Go Cornwall Bus –Lester Akehurst from Coach House Motors MOT Centre

• Engineering and Manufacturing Apprentice of the Year

– Sponsored by GetMyFirstJob –Harry Hay from Teagle Machinery Ltd

• Land-based Apprentice of the Year

– Sponsored by Eden Project –Anne Karvinen from Calweton Veterinary Group.

CROSS-SECTOR AWARDS

• Academic Mentor of the Year

– Sponsored by Truro and Penwith College – Tamzin Irvin from Truro and Penwith College

• Workplace Mentor of the Year –Sponsored by Truro and Penwith College – Emma Harris from Cornwall Group Ltd

• Apprentice Achiever of the Year

– Sponsored by Hiyield –Sarah Hyde-Wear from Fistral Beach Hotel

• Cornwall’s Apprentice of the Year 2024 –Sponsored by Truro and Penwith College

– James Angliss from Royal Cornwall Hospitals NHS Trust

PARTNERS AND SUPPORTERS

• Award Partners – Hertzian

• Supporters – Pirate FM

• Media Partners – Business Cornwall

• Trophy Sponsors – Corbey Construction

• Friends of the Cornwall Apprenticeship Awards – Cornwall Glass Manufacturing and Coastline Housing

ACADEMIC MENTOR OF THE YEAR TAMZIN IRVIN FROM TRURO AND PENWITH COLLEGE

APPRENTICE ACHIEVER OF THE YEAR SARAH HYDE-WEAR FROM FISTRAL BEACH HOTEL (RIGHT OF PHOTO)

LARGE EMPLOYER OF THE YEAR PENDENNIS SHIPYARD

CORNWALL’S APPRENTICE OF THE YEAR 2024 JAMES ANGLISS FROM ROYAL CORNWALL HOSPITALS NHS TRUST

Celebrating

the best

Employers, apprentices, mentors and their families celebrated an historic Cornwall Apprenticeship Awards last month as Truro and Penwith College’s eighth annual event took place outside of the college for the very first time, with the biggest ever audience and line-up of categories.

Holly Day and Neil Caddy from Pirate FM presented the awards, held in partnership with Hertzian and media partners Business Cornwall, with support from a host of local and national sponsors, to recognise and reward the exceptional achievement of 48 shortlisted learners, mentors and employers across 18 categories, judged by a panel of industry leaders from local and national employers.

Emma Harris from Cornwall Group Ltd picked up the new Workplace Mentor of the Year award.

James Angliss, degree-level chartered surveyor apprentice from Royal Cornwall Hospitals NHS Trust (RCHT), was not only presented the Construction and Trade Occupations Apprentice of the Year but also the coveted title of Cornwall’s Apprentice of the Year 2024 for his exceptional success delivering a major breast screening facilities development project for Cornwall’s NHS.

Biggest ever audience and lineup of categories

The eighth annual awards took place at Eden Project for the very first time having outgrown its traditional Truro College venue, with the biggest-ever audience of well over 200.

The new Academic and Workplace Mentor of the Year categories were added to the event for the first time in 2024 with Tamzin Irvin, programme team leader of nursing and allied health at Truro and Penwith College, scooping the Academic Mentor of the Year Award for her key role in establishing Cornwall’s first nursing apprenticeship programme.

The Achiever of the Year category was won by Sarah Hyde-Wear from Fistral Beach Hotel having overcome hip surgery, a dyslexia diagnosis and a significant family illness.

The Large Apprentice Employer of the Year was won by Pendennis Shipyard with Hiyield scooping SME Employer of the Year.

Speaking after the event, Martin Tucker, principal of Truro and Penwith College, commented: “We are delighted to host the eighth annual Cornwall Apprenticeship Awards and to celebrate exceptional achievement and outcomes in apprenticeship training across Cornwall.

“The 2023/24 academic year has already been hugely successful for the College having

been recognised by the DfE as Cornwall’s only apprenticeship expert and one of only five FE Colleges to have achieved this status across the UK.

“The new status allows us to work even more closely with our employers and the DfE to continually develop the very best apprenticeship programmes for Cornwall.

“A huge congratulations to all of tonight’s nominees, we can’t wait to see where their careers take them next.”

A BRAND NEW VISION

Brand Innovation has been appointed to handle communications and PR for Inyanga Marine Energy Group.

Inyanga’s goal is to become the world leader in tidal stream energy arrays, using its innovative HydroWing technology.

The new Brand Innovation contract has kicked off with an international industry PR campaign to promote Inyanga’s plans and its latest new product development.

Lynn File, MD of Liskeard-based Brand Innovation, said: “Inyanga Marine Energy Group is right at the forefront of innovation in offshore renewable energy. We are delighted to be asked to lead their strategic communications and we look forward to helping the company fulfil its ambitions.”

NEW CREATIVE HUB

cottages will be transformed later this year into an artists’ residency with opportunities for artists to apply to base themselves at the cottage for free up until March 2025.

Cornwall Council is partnering with Creative Kernow to run the residency with further details to be publicised.

A new creative and wellness hub is being planned for Tehidy Country Park, near Camborne.

Two former estate workers’ cottages are to be renovated so it can house new activities to be run by creative and nature-based social prescribing practitioners.

The heritage and regeneration project is being funded by the Government through a £151k award from the Cornwall and Isles of Scilly Shared Prosperity Fund.

Located at the park’s Kennels Hill, one of the

HELLO STRANGER!

The biggest theatre engagement programme ever staged in Cornwall is opening a treasure trove of stories and inspiring creative talents from the Isles of Scilly to the Tamar.

Wildworks, the UK’s leading landscape theatre company, will employ more than 60 artists for the latest phase called Hello Stranger.

It is part of We Are Shining, an 18-month celebration led by the acclaimed company and supported by Cornwall Council’s Good Growth programme.

The overall aim is to reach more than 70,000 people and inspire towns, schools and diverse communities across Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly.

Hello Stranger will explore how they would describe the place where they live and its history, myths and character to a stranger arriving on its shores today.

Activity ranges from a dramatic collaboration with homeless charity St Petrocs to working with refugees on a project where nine Cornish artists will be paired with nine people displaced from their homeland, resulting in a touring installation.

Wildworks CEO, Emma Hogg, said: “We have named this huge range of creative activity Hello Stranger because anyone and everyone is invited.

“We will spark conversations through live and digital creative activity, drawing people together and generating and rediscovering a treasure trove of ideas, artefacts and stories in a way and on a scale that has never been done before.”

The other cottage is being transformed to become a community wellness centre including a therapy room, space for community events and rentable office areas. It includes a commission for artists to reimagine a derelict Victorian outside toilet building as part of an immersive art project called Poetry Privy.

There will also be a range of opportunities for organisations in the creative and wellness sector to deliver an extensive activities programme from this summer.

A PROBLEM SOLVED

Cornwall Air Ambulance has reported a rise in donations it has received since launching its new website last November.

Cornwall Air Ambulance chose B Corpcertified SEO and web design agency Solve to design the website, its key focus being to improve website performance to encourage more people to support the charity and help it fulfil its true potential.

Solve director, Lawrence Harmer, said: “This project was a bold journey that involved the dedication and expertise of multiple creative minds within Solve, including design, development, SEO, and project coordination.

“Since November we have seen a 54% increase in site traffic and a 222% increase in conversions, including donations, shop sales, and event registrations. It’s a real success story and we hope that even more lives will be saved as a result.”

DESPITE A GLOOMY ECONOMIC BACKDROP, CHAMBER CEO KIM CONCHIE HAILS A FEELING OF OPTIMISM AND RESILIENCE IN CORNWALL.

Finally, spring is here! January and February have been very busy at the Chamber but still, those first two months of the year certainly drag on!

We’ve had lots of brilliant events over the past few weeks – full of feel good and optimism. Businesses seem to be on very good form, despite a rocky outlook.

Technically, we’re in recession, but I’m heartened to see our local businesses taking the word with a pinch of salt and just focusing

on what they need to do to look after their customers, watch costs and plan to be resilient.

The British Chambers of Commerce’s (BCC) Quarterly Economic Survey Q4 2023 showed a slight improvement to business confidence, despite most firms continuing to report no improvement to sales, cash flow or investment.

To me, this just shows the determination and dedication of British business; we are doing whatever we can to get through these unprecedented times and remain positive.

You’re probably reading this post Spring Budget – but I can’t comment on that yet. I hope that given it will need to woo voters in the run up to a General Election, it might be a good one for small businesses and businesspeople.

The BCC is putting the pressure on the Government to use the Budget to work in partnership with business and create a sustainable growth plan.

It has called for ministers to commit to fund business-led Local Skills Improvement Plans (LSIPs) beyond the current 2025 cut off point to at least 2028. For Cornwall, where the skills gap is one of our biggest limitations, this is crucial.

It has also called for the VAT registration review to be restarted with a view to removing the

MAKE THIS YOUR YEAR TO NETWORK WITH A PURPOSE!

Do you attend our Chamber events? If not, what’s stopping you?

I had a conversation with a business owner the other day who said they love networking events once they’re in and comfortable, but the thought of walking in alone fills them with dread.

This really disappointed me; I hate tothink any of our members or nonmembers are holding back for fear of entering a room and being ignored. I think it’s unlikely that would happen as we’re such a friendly bunch, but if this is you, please book an event today – take the plunge, and email me asking that a member of my brilliant team meets you

and introduces you to a few people. It’s so important to have the opportunity to make new connections and learn new things. You never know who you’ll be sat by – and that’s nothing to be daunted by. It has led to some very fruitful collaborations.

So, here are some upcoming events for you to attend: Wednesday March 27 is our BIG Breakfast at the stunning Tregenna Castle down in St Ives. It’s always a packed event and you’ll probably see lots of familiar faces.

On April 10, we have our Connected Lunch at Trenderway Farm near Polperro. This is an idyllic little retreat and more intimate if the thought of a big crowd puts you off.

existing cliff edge, and business rates reform to make it a tax that incentivises growth. Surely both easy to do in the digital age.

These two points are very important for the Duchy. The BCC’s first major business survey of 2024 reveals 43% of responding firms with a turnover of less than £85k are concerned about growing revenue beyond this threshold specifically because of the requirement to pay VAT.

Our business landscape is predominantly made up of SMEs and micro businesses. We need these businesses to absolutely fly when they can, helping Cornwall’s economy grow, so if they are holding back expansion plans due to VAT, this is a big problem. Why not have a sliding scale rather than a threshold? Finally, the BCC supports the idea of a new internationally competitive tax-free shopping scheme and is pushing for this to be included in the Budget. And it wants the Government to match industry-led funding of £3 million for planning qualifications to help improve the lack of resource. Cornwall Chamber championed this with our National Business Partner Heathrow Airport.

I hope the tide is turning. Businesses know what they need, and the Government must work in partnership with us to kickstart the UK economy once again.

CROWDFUNDER PROMOTION

Crowdfunder has appointed a new finance director.

Having been with Crowdfunder for five years,

Joel Matthews has played a pivotal role in the company’s growth and brings a wealth of experience to the role.

Prior to joining Crowdfunder, he worked with another tech-based platform, ZPG (Zoopla Property Group), where he honed his financial acumen and strategic thinking.

“I’m thrilled to take the finance helm at Crowdfunder,” said Matthews. “We’ve got some ambitious plans for the platform, and I’m looking forward to driving the growth agenda forward.”

Dawn Bebe, joint CEO of Crowdfunder, added: “Joel is a real rising finance star. He’s navigated us through the best and - sometimes - seemingly worst of times with characteristic resilience and a smart pragmatic approach. Joel will be a key part of our sustainable growth journey.”

STUDIO GROWTH

Falmouth-based design agency Kingdom & Sparrow has started 2024 with the appointment of two new team members in anticipation of a busy year ahead.

Polly Arrowsmith, who has spent several years in marketing within the hospitality sector in London and most recently worked

at Cornish eco-packaging company FlexiHex, has joined as an account executive, while Falmouth University graduate Ellie Russell joins as junior designer.

Creative director, Johnny Paton, said: “Ellie and Polly join us at a time when we have a string of great projects lined up to get our teeth into, working with both local and global partners.”

COLLEGE PRINCIPAL STEPPING DOWN

Cornwall College principal and chief executive, John Evans, will step down this summer, leaving behind a “legacy of transformative initiatives and academic achievements”.

Patrick Newberry, chair of governors at The Cornwall College Group (TCCG), acknowledged Evans’ contributions, saying that under his leadership over the past four years, the group had “reached news heights”.

NEW BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT DIRECTOR

The Cornwall College Group (TCCG) has announced Tony Marshall as its new director of business development and partnerships, in addition to his current role as MD of Concorde Recruitment.

Marshall will lead a team of business experts in establishing commercial partnerships with employers and organisations in Cornwall, Devon and beyond.

The focus will be on driving B2B growth by offering upskilling, learning and professional qualifications through the college group.

Marshall said: “I am looking forward to working with and continuing to build an amazing sales team, driving commercial growth for the group and collaborating with both existing and new employers across the south west to increase footfall to our campuses.”

“His visionary approach, commitment to excellence and unwavering passion for education have left an indelible mark on our institution,” Newberry said. “We thank him for his transformative leadership.

“TCCG remains committed to building

upon the legacy John leaves behind, with a continued dedication to providing exceptional education and addressing the evolving needs of the community.”

In the midst of a national numeracy skills crisis, The Cornwall College Group (TCCG)

the issue head-on, championing the Government’s Multiply campaign,

Confidence

The Multiply campaign, part of the national drive to elevate numeracy levels, offers a lifeline to adults seeking to refine their mathematical skills, paving the way for more promising employment prospects, enhanced earning potential and an overall uplift in quality of life.

The urgency of this initiative is underscored by startling statistics revealing that a significant portion of the working-age population in England have numeracy capabilities that align to those expected of primary school children. That’s around 17 million adults who have numeracy skills equivalent to key stage 2.

Through Multiply, a fully-funded programme from the Department for Education (DfE), TCCG are inviting adults to engage in a transformative learning journey in order to build confidence with numbers at work.

“Multiply courses help to deliver everyday maths, for everyday life,” explained Lewis Jones, Multiply Project Manager at TCCG. “I highly recommend everyone to discover the benefits of Multiply for enhancing your team’s math skills. This not only boosts their overall performance, productivity, and efficiency but also significantly cuts down on errors linked to numeracy,” Lewis continued.

that suits them is so important. By bringing the opportunities into the community, with tailored courses where everyone can feel comfortable, we can boost confidence and help our residents improve their prospects of getting a better job, and give them the skills to support their children with their maths learning.”

Councillor Louis Gardner, Cornwall Council portfolio holder for economy, said: “Shared Prosperity Funding enables the Multiply programme to offer even more opportunities for residents to access the skills they need to meet recruitment needs now and in the future, and in turn help grow Cornwall’s economy.”

An example of a business that has already seen the practical impact of Multiply in the workplace is Pendennis Shipyard, with apprentices in the Pendennis paint shop taking the opportunity to advance their maths skills.

Peter Coles, paint apprentice manager at Pendennis, emphasised: “In many industries, the cost of materials is a significant factor in determining profitability, so even the slightest mis-calculation can have far-reaching consequences.”

With the three-year Multiply project due to end in March 2025, Lewis Jones encourages businesses and their employees to seize this opportunity for growth and development whilst it’s available.

“Multiply is also a great way to boosts your staff’s welfare. Not only does it increase confidence in their work tasks but it also empowers them in their personal lives,” Lewis said.

“This in turn enhances their engagement and motivation and provides them with the necessary skills to advance and take on new challenges, both at work and home.”

“It’s about making operations smoother and ensuring our work is as accurate as possible.”

Councillor Barbara Ellenbroek, Cornwall Council portfolio holder for children and families and with responsibility for adult education, said: “Helping our residents gain those extra maths skills at a time and a place

Multiply courses are also aimed at improving employability skills and helping individuals progress their career. Plus, they are designed to empower and educate parents with the current maths their children are learning in lessons, making it easier for them to support with homework.

A recent participant commented: “I found the course enlightening, it has given me a greater understanding of mathematics.”

With a range of courses, from hour-long sessions to full certification programmes, Multiply is designed to accommodate diverse learning preferences and schedules.Flexible delivery options mean training is available in person, online, in the workplace, in the evening, part time or intensively.

To qualify for the course your employees must be aged 19 and over, need upskilling in maths and live in Cornwall.

Business without

borders

Sara Castañeda, co-founder of handcrafted chocolate brand Rio Nuevo, believes in cultivating communities for global good.

In an era where global challenges and shared aspirations transcend geographical borders, the concept of community has significantly evolved.

As the co-founder of Rio Nuevo Chocolate, a B Corp in Cornwall, I see community not just as a local entity but as a global network of interconnected individuals and groups. Our commitment to sustainability and ethical practices reflects a broader, worldwide goal, illustrating that community is a vast, intertwined grid without defined boundaries.

In Cornwall, the growing B Corp community is part of a global movement toward sustainable and ethical business practices. My journey from the mountains of Colombia to Cornwall has taught me that values like protecting nature, sustainability, and positive social and environmental impact are universal, showing that communities, though rooted in local traditions, are part of a diverse global tapestry.

The environmental and social challenges we face today require a collective response that transcends distances and disciplines. Our business practices and choices have far-reaching impacts, reinforcing our role in a larger, global community.

Our world is more interconnected than ever, where our sense of community extends beyond our immediate localities, linking us with global cultures. And chocolate, seemingly simple, is a powerful connector.

Bridging the gap between producers and consumers

At Rio Nuevo, our goal is to strengthen this connection by trading directly with cacao farming communities, thus bridging the gap between producers and consumers. When we visit our cacao producers in the forests of Ecuador, we witness firsthand the incredible work and dedication of the farmers who grow the cacao we use in our chocolate. These trips are an opportunity to learn from these farmers, to create connections that go beyond a business transaction, to understand how our community in Cornwall can support them

in their conservation efforts and in their struggle against social and environmental injustices.

Our actions in Cornwall directly affect our partners in Ecuador, with whom we share a mission to promote regenerative agricultural practices and contribute to the restoration of biodiverse forests, vital in combating climate change.

Connecting Cornwall and Ecuador through chocolate demonstrates the power of a global community united by sustainability and positive change.

It shows that intentional actions can have boundless impacts, nurturing a global community committed to a sustainable future. It’s about creating an inclusive narrative, building a community not defined by distance but by shared stories and collective impacts.

Today’s community concept transcends physical locations, embodying a web of global relationships driven by shared values and goals. I truly believe that as businesses, we have the responsibility to nurture these connections, amplifying our positive impact beyond our immediate surroundings.

MARCH 2024 EVENTS

6

CORNWALL CHAMBER LUNCH

Driftwood Spars, St Agnes

Cornwall Chamber’s monthly lunchtime networking this month comes from the historic coastal Inn, Driftwood Spars. Tickets £36 for members, £51 for non members. cornwallchamber.co.uk

6-7

EXPOWEST CORNWALL

Royal Cornwall Showground

Expowest Cornwall is a crucial event on the county’s business and social calendar. If you want to get straight to the heart of the Cornish food, hospitality and catering community, then this is the one trade show you cannot afford to miss. expowestcornwall.co.uk

10

CORNISH PIRATES V AMPTHILL

Mennaye Field, Penzance

Championship rugby action as the high-flying Pirates take on Ampthill. Hospitality packages available for the full match day experience. cornish-pirates.com

12

SKILLS FOR TOMORROW

Cornwall College, St Austell

Calling all construction, retrofit, manufacturing, engineering and marine businesses. An afternoon exploring the exciting prospects for growth in Cornwall. ccbtraining.co.uk

13

KING NETWORKING

Victoria Inn, Threemilestone

The Kernow Independent Networking Group gathers for breakfast every other Wednesday. Members each give a one minute presentation on their business and the kinds of referral they would particularly value. king-networking.co.uk

For further details of these and more networking events visit businesscornwall.co.uk

To publicise your event for free, email news@businesscornwall.co.uk 14

WOMEN IN BUSINESS LUNCH

Penventon Hotel, Redruth

All are welcome to the Women in Business Lunch on the second Thursday of each month. yourpartnerships.co.uk

BUILDING BRANDS CORNWALL

FibreHub, Camborne

An afternoon brimming with marketing insights, networking, and groundbreaking ideas.

21

YOUR PARTNERSHIPS OPEN HOUSE

The Victoria Inn, Roche

This is the original home of Your Partnerships and this is always a great meeting. If you have never experienced an Open House with Your Partnerships at the birth home of Your Partnerships you are missing out. yourpartnerships.co.uk

Building Brands Local is coming to Cornwall, and it’s your chance to be part of the south west’s most celebrated marketing event series! building-brands.co.uk

SENIOR EXECUTIVES FORUM

Alverton Hotel, Truro

A morning of dynamic networking, where like-minded CEOs, managing directors, and senior managers from diverse industries come together to cultivate relationships, exchange insights, and fuel innovation. ccbtraining.co.uk

PENZANCE BUSINESS BREAKFAST

The Exchange, Penzance

All are welcome to this informal breakfast meeting for business owners, professionals and anyone with a business interest in Penzance and Cornwall. eventbrite.co.uk

THE PIG DIPPERS

The Pig at Harlyn Bay Cornwall Chamber of Commerce and Sara Tremayne Taylor from Brooks Financial Planning Limited have teamed up with Anna Hayward at The Pig – at Harlyn Bay to create The Pig Dippers – a monthly net-swimming and breakfast club for those who want to start the day fresh! cornwallchamber.co.uk

SKILLS FOR TOMORROW

FibreHub, Camborne

Calling all construction, retrofit, manufacturing, engineering and marine businesses. An afternoon exploring the exciting prospects for growth in Cornwall. ccbtraining.co.uk

YOUR PARTNERSHIPS AWARDS

Penventon Hotel, Redruth

Your Partnerships’ annual awards and sixth anniversary celebrations. Black tie event with a three-course meal and live band. Tickets £65pp or table of ten for £600. yourpartnerships.co.uk

CORNWALL CHAMBER BIG BREAKFAST

Tregenna Castle, St Ives Cornwall Chamber of Commerce would like to invite you to Tregenna Castle Resort for its March BIG breakfast event.

cornwallchamber.co.uk

HFC BUSINESS NETWORKING CLUB

Hall for Cornwall, Truro

Network HfC gathers on the last Thursday of each month for an informal get-together. It’s offthe-cuff stuff, free of the usual networking stereotypes. Each session culminates with a Q&A with a Cornwall-based leader of their field.

hallforcornwall.co.uk

PM IN CORNWALL

During a busy day in Cornwall last month, Rishi Sunak took the opportunity to visit Cornwall College in Camborne and A&P Falmouth. All of which, of course, is hungry work. Thankfully, a trip to a Cornish Pasty shop was also on the itinerary!

STEVE MOSES

MD of Penzance insurance broker, Jacksons

WHAT DID YOU WANT TO BE WHEN YOU WERE YOUNG?

Growing up in the early 70s, my one ambition was to play football for West Ham.

When reality kicked in, I immediately turned my intention to insurance broking (not!), as most of us in the industry would say, we all somewhat “fall into it”...

WHAT WAS YOUR FIRST FULL TIME JOB?

I left school after A-levels and “fell” straight into a job as a trainee insurance broker and here I am 40 years later still broking.

WHAT’S IN YOUR POCKETS?

It depends on what I’m doing, phone and keys most of the time, but I like it better when it’s tennis balls, golf balls, doggie treats, sunglasses, foreign currency…

HOW DO YOU LIKE TO RELAX?

Enjoying good food and wine, barbequing, watching the footy, playing tennis (badly), padel, golf and other sports, all with great friends and family.

IF YOU COULD BUILD A HOUSE ANYWHERE IN THE WORLD, WHERE WOULD IT BE?

I’d have to build two, one in the Caribbean and one in the Alps.

WHAT HAS BEEN THE BEST MOMENT IN YOUR CAREER?

Being invited to become a partner in Jacksons back in 2001. I had realised soon after coming into insurance broking that I eventually wanted to be involved in owning and running my own business so this was a proud moment.

WHAT’S THE BEST THING ABOUT CORNWALL?

The beaches, the people, pasties, saffron cake, need I go on…

IF YOU COULD BE GOD FOR A DAY, WHAT MIRACLE WOULD YOU PERFORM?

West Ham winning the Premiership and the Champions League, now that would be miracle!

WHAT WOULD YOU LIKE TO BE DOING IN FIVE YEARS’ TIME?

At my age, breathing! And spending more time with my wife, family and friends in Cornwall and various parts of the world.

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