Business Cornwall Sep 20 by Business Cornwall

CORNWALL'S PREMIER BUSINESS RESOURCE FOR ALL THE LATEST NEWS AND OPINION

businesscornwall.co.uk

SEPTEMBER 2020 | ISSUE 140 | Â£3.95

BACK TO WORK

BUSINESSES RETURN AFTER LOCKDOWN

EDUCATION SECTOR FOCUS

NEWS AND FEATURES

LATEST ROUND-UP OF BUSINESS ISSUES 09

09 9 772514

842001

26 – 27 September 2020 RUN • WALK • JOG • CYCLE | 5K OR 10K

SPONSORED BY

focus-technology.co.uk

£14M FOR THE MAGNIFICENT SEVEN

Seven ‘shovel-ready’ projects in Cornwall are set to benefit from the Government’s Getting Building Fund (GBF) to stimulate post-Covid-19 recovery over the next 18 months. £14.3 million will be shared among the schemes spanning renewable energy, space, aerospace, creative industries, STEM skills and agri-food. The Cornwall and Isles of Scilly LEP says the investment will attract a further £44.6 million of public and private sector match funding, representing a total investment of almost £59 million, supporting 1,100 jobs and furthering a number of Cornwall’s green recovery ambitions around renewable energy technologies, geo-resources and sustainability.

Chair of the LEP, Mark Duddridge, said: “We submitted an ambitious bid and have spent the last few weeks working with Government and local partners to agree this first phase of strategic investment towards post-Covid-19 recovery.

8 | BUSINESS CORNWALL

“It combines world-leading innovation such as lithium extraction for batteries, space data analytics and advanced manufacturing, with new investment to accelerate growth in our renewable energy, agri-food, creative, and aerospace sectors. And we are investing in the future of Cornwall’s young people, with a new STEM Skills Centre. “Our economy has been one of the hardest hit by coronavirus and we will continue to work with Government for more devolved funding so Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly can play a national role in the economic recovery.” The projects include: • Europe’s first geothermal lithium recovery pilot plant to extract lithium for use in batteries. This project represents a £4 million collaboration between Geothermal Engineering Ltd (GEL) and Cornish Lithium at GEL’s deep geothermal project at United Downs to demonstrate that lithium can be produced from geothermal brines with a zero carbon footprint. • A space ‘AI’ institute and receiver factory at Goonhilly Earth Station. A £3.77 million project led by Goonhilly Earth Station Ltd will involve commercial operators across sectors including space, data science, and high-performance computers as well as a consortium of leading universities to progress innovation in space-related artificial intelligence (AI), data analytics, machine learning and advanced manufacturing. The investment will lead to manufacturing and specialist test facilities at Goonhilly for deep space, radio astronomy, and space telecommunication receivers for new and existing markets across the UK and internationally. • Accelerated delivery of the £26.2 million Hall for Cornwall redevelopment project

in Truro which will include a 1,300-seat theatre, creative industries workspace, an extensive youth outreach programme and new bars and cafés. Audiences are projected to increase to over 300,000 a year, driving footfall in the city centre and contributing to a vibrant high street. • The multi-million pound expansion of the Saputo Dairy UK creamery in Davidstow to increase production of cheese and demineralised whey powder for both the UK and export market, providing security for more than 330 dairy farmers across the region. The investment will reduce the environmental footprint of the dairy, including significant CO2 reductions.

• A £6.3 million Truro and Penwith College STEM Skills Centre for north and east Cornwall, located in Bodmin next to the Callywith College campus. Providing post-16 education in health sciences, digital, engineering and manufacturing, including new T-levels. • Workspace at Cornwall Airport Newquay. New hangar facilities for Cornwall Airport Ltd available to lease to businesses in the satellite and space sectors. The new £1.25 million facility will support the UK Space Agency’s decision to pick Newquay for horizontal satellite launches and create new rental revenue for the publicly-owned airport. • A Cornwall-wide pilot project to retrofit social housing with renewable energy technology. A £4.07 million Cornwall Council project that will include the installation of photovoltaic solar panels on 600 social homes, with a whole house retrofit of 42 properties.

BUSINESS NEWS

SPONSORED BY

CORNWALL

sapc.co.uk

SOUTH WEST’S TOP DEALMAKER PKF Francis Clark has been ranked as the south west’s most active financial adviser in Experian Market IQ’s latest M&A Review. The research, which analyses mergers, acquisitions and other deals worth over £500k during the first half of 2020, found transactions in the UK and Ireland were down by 36% overall on the same period last year, as the Covid-19 pandemic impacted on activity levels. In the south west, 179 deals were recorded, with a total value of £5.46 billion. The volume of deals completed in the region declined by nearly 40% year on year, broadly in line with the national picture. PKF Francis Clark topped the rankings of the region’s busiest financial advisers, after the firm’s corporate finance team helped to facilitate nine deals across sectors including energy, manufacturing, retail and IT.

These included Cornwall-based Kensa Group’s sale of a minority shareholding to Legal & General, paving the way for the ground source heat pump specialist to scale up and play a growing role in the UK’s green energy revolution. Andrew Killick, corporate finance partner, said: “The last few months have been a difficult time for many people and organisations, but, despite the uncertainty that Covid-19 has brought to the country, there has still been corporate finance activity, and we have seen an increase in appetite for transactions develop recently.”

Plans to build floating windfarms in the Celtic Sea to generate clean power and create thousands of green jobs have taken a major step forward after being shortlisted by UK Research and Innovation (UKRI). The South West Floating Offshore Wind Accelerator has been chosen to work up a detailed bid for over £30 million of potential Government funding provided through UKRI’s flagship Strength in Places Fund. UKRI is providing £50k of early-stage funding to support development of the bid following a successful stage one application. The project aims to build on Cornwall and Plymouth’s strong reputation in offshore renewables business and research to fast-track the construction of large scale floating offshore windfarms in the Celtic Sea from the mid2020s onwards. The South West Floating Offshore Wind Accelerator is being led by Wave Hub, the Cornwall Council-owned marine renewables research and technology organisation.

OFFSHORE WIND BOOST

Steve Jermy, executive chair of Hayle-based Wave Hub, said: “We’re delighted that UKRI has recognised the strength of our bid and that we can progress to the next round. The Great South West has the potential to make a decisive contribution to the UK’s offshore wind energy targets by developing a new floating wind industry that can create thousands of jobs with huge export potential.”

NEWS IN BRIEF Canadian mining company Strongbow Exploration, which owns South Crofty Mine, has formally changed its name to Cornish Metals. CEO Richard Williams said “The renaming to Cornish Metals is a reflection of our dedication to revitalising an industry which means so much to the people of Cornwall. We are currently drilling at the South Crofty tin project, and thereafter will be expanding the drill programme to United Downs to follow up on the recent high grade copper – tin discovery.” ____________________ Hayle Harbour Authority has partnered with Unmanned Survey Solutions (USS) to help with the development of robotic vessels in performing hydrographic surveys in Hayle Harbour. The aim is to monitor the effects of dredging, sluicing and periodic natural changes to the depths of the harbour in fulfilment of its conservancy requirements, and ensure safe operation to harbour users. ____________________ Miller Commercial has been recognised as Cornwall’s leading commercial property agency for the tenth year in a row by EGi, the largest property news provider and data analyst. ____________________ Falmouth-based beauty company Bloomtown was awarded joint gold in the overall Best Brand category at the ninth annual Free From Skincare Awards, alongside New Zealand skincare company Antipodes. ____________________ Chris Biggs Engineering is under new ownership, following the founder’s decision to step back from day-to-day duties after more than 50 years in business. The Fowey-based steel fabrication company has been acquired by local business consultant Clay Cowie. ____________________ Local lending company Folk2Folk has partnered with Berlin-based digital debt marketplace CrossLend, which connects loan originators such as Folk2Folk and institutional investors. ____________________ Hard Pressed Cornwall, which is producing Cornwall’s first sunflower oil, raised more than £4k for a mental health treatment unit in Bodmin after it opened the gates to its field of more than 275,000 sunflowers to the public. BUSINESS CORNWALL | 9

CORNWALL

BUSINESS NEWS

SPONSORED BY

focus-technology.co.uk

LAW GRADS ‘LACKING BUSINESS SKILLS’

BIDDING FOR A THIRD TERM As it enters the final months of it second term, Newquay Business Improvement District (BID) is looking to be renewed for a further five years.

A survey with leading south west law firms has identified five factors which are holding law graduates back from becoming high achievers. The survey also showed that undergraduate law degrees are not effectively teaching the business skills that students need for a successful career in law. The survey with ten of the leading law firms in the south west was conducted by Trurobased Kies Consulting. Michael Schauer, director of Kies Consulting, said: “The transition from an academic to commercial world can be an uphill struggle for junior lawyers. Our research has shown that the factors that decide which junior lawyers will be high achievers is not just down to legal excellence. Practical business skills are vital and this is something that many new graduates struggle with.”

A Cornish company which designs and manufactures diving equipment is on track to meet its 2020 sustainability targets.

The need for improved attention to detail among junior lawyers, particularly in business writing was identified by 92% of participants in the survey. Junior lawyers’ lack of emotional intelligence and the ability to build resilience and perseverance was highlighted as a barrier to success by 83% of the survey’s participants. The survey also pin-pointed junior lawyers’ lack of commercial awareness and difficulty in establishing the necessary work ethos as issues. Finally, respondents identified the need for a well-balanced mistake culture in a firm, where mistakes are seen as a starting point for a learning opportunity.

Newquay BID, the not for profit organisation that delivers projects and services in the town, funded by town centre businesses, will see its second term come to end on March 31 of next year. The BID is looking to be renewed for a further five years subject to a new business plan being published and a ballot held in December. BID manager, Carla-Marie Jones, said: “Newquay is such a great town, home to many superb businesses whom we would like to continue to support through delivering services that generate the greatest value in return for their money. We can only do this if businesses engage with us and tell us what they think so I would urge all businesses to have their say.” www.newquaybid.co.uk

DIVING FOR PLASTIC FREE FUTURE

Fourth Element, which provides high-performance and eco-friendly equipment for diving professionals and enthusiasts around the world, hopes to completely eliminate single-use plastic from its operations by the end of the year after already removing 4,000 kilograms of plastic - the equivalent of almost 300,000 1.5 litre plastic bottles – from its products since 2017. This is in addition to the removal of 110,000 plastic bags from its packaging processes. A finance facility from HSBC UK has been used to support the business through the coronavirus outbreak when its plans to remove all single-use plastics were put on hold as lockdown measures were introduced. Among other things, the Government-backed Coronavirus Business Interruption Loan Scheme loan has helped Fourth Element continue plans to develop a first-of-its-kind dive suit made from natural and recycled materials. Fourth Element co-founder, Jim Standing, said: “The ocean is at the core of our brand and sadly, we see the negative effects of plastic in our seas first-hand.

10 | BUSINESS CORNWALL

“If every organisation in the diving industry eliminated or even reduced its single-use plastic waste by 70%, it would mean hundreds of tonnes of plastic could be removed from the ocean every year.”

Fourth Element’s products, which include drysuits, wetsuits, swimwear and footwear, are sold in 120 stores in the UK and more than 1,000 stores worldwide, with flagship stores in Bangkok and Shanghai.

SPONSORED BY

BUSINESS NEWS

CORNWALL

sapc.co.uk

The arrival of Mascotte, the largest surviving Bristol Channel Pilot Cutter, into her new home in Charlestown has marked the launch of a new sailing trust – Rich’s Boat. The Rich’s Boat Charitable Trust was founded by Mascotte’s owner in memory of her skipper of nine years, Richard Clapham, who took his own life on July 30 of last year.

PILOT CUTTER LAUNCHES NEW CHARITY

Mascotte, which is believed to have been the third largest Bristol Channel Pilot Cutter ever built, with the help of the Charlestown Harbour team will be used as an inspirational and educational sailing tool. It is hoped Mascotte will provide a valuable team building asset to help boost confidence and morale – using sailing to champion positive mental health and wellbeing. Jessie Atkinson, Charlestown harbour vessel manager, said: “Rich was passionate about Bristol Channel Pilot Cutters and incredibly knowledgeable. I know he’d love to think people are benefitting from Mascotte, taking good care of her, learning and sharing his passion for sailing.”

THE NEW LAND ROVER DEFENDER

NO BRIDGE. NO PROBLEM.

BOOK A TEST DRIVE The new Land Rover Defender relishes challenges and doesn’t care much for impossibilities. With permanent All-Wheel Drive and world-first configurable Terrain Response technology*, it has the capability to push boundaries even further. Tested in every condition in every environment on every surface you might encounter, it always comes out the other side, ready for the next challenge. Defender. An icon in a category of one. Carrs Land Rover 6 Cornwall Business Park West, Scorrier, Redruth, TR16 5BN, Cornwall 01872 300654 www.helstongarages.co.uk/landrover

Official WLTP Fuel Consumption for the Defender range in mpg (l/100km): Combined 22.6-32.2 (12.5 - 8.8). WLTP CO2 Emissions 283-230 g/km. The figures provided are as a result of official manufacturer’s tests in accordance with EU legislation. For comparison purposes only. Real world figures may differ. CO2 and fuel economy figures may vary according to factors such as driving styles, environmental conditions, load and accessories. Always check route and exit before wading. *Fitment and availability varies by model. Please check the online Pricing and Specification Guide or speak to your Land Rover Retailer for further information. Vehicle fitted with optional extras. Images taken during off road sequence on dedicated land with full permissions. Always check route and exit before wading.

BUSINESS CORNWALL | 11

AEROSPACE

CORNWALL

Cornwall’s mining industry is soaring to

new heights

With a history of mining dating back to the early Bronze Age, Cornwall’s mining and exploration industry has been one of the cornerstones of the region.

across all aspects of the sector, exploration, mining and geotechnics, are embracing new tech and new applications of existing technologies to help aid and drive this forward.

By the 1800s Cornwall was not only the mining centre of the world, famous for its base metal and tin production and boasting the richest square mile on Earth, but also home to some of the most forward-thinking engineers of the time – engineers who harnessed new and evolving technology to revolutionize the mining industry.

Thanks to funding from AeroSpace Cornwall, in particular, companies have been exploiting the techniques and technologies emerging from the Cornish Space and Aerospace industries to reach new heights, as Cornwall becomes a cornerstone of the UK Space industry.

A key part of the industry’s success was the use of these new and emerging technologies taken from all sectors: expanding the application of the mining practices and processes for the benefit of the local economy – leading to Cornish expertise, minerals and technology being exported across the globe. It is this adventurous and disruptive spirit that is driving the recent rise of active mining and exploration in Cornwall. Businesses

Part funded by the European Regional Development Fund, AeroSpace Cornwall is helping innovative businesses boost their offering: enabling them to pivot into the space and aerospace sectors via funding and support. This synergy between mining and space spans across all levels of the supply chain – bringing unexpected industries together. From component manufacturing to final end data users, initial mineral exploration (green & brown field), extraction and mine closure through the application of satellite and drone EO data,

lidar and hyperspectral – the pioneering spirit of the new age of mining comes from the collaboration of businesses with all manner of specialisms. Those with no previous background in the industry are seeing the potential of this resurgence and how they can fit into this unique cross-industry cluster, and this mutually beneficial relationship is paving the way for the next generation of research and development – exporting technology worldwide and boosting Cornwall’s economy. In Cornwall, drones are being used to survey inaccessible areas such as cliff faces, allowing the monitoring of geotechnical stability issues and land mass movement. Businesses are also utilising satellite data to aid with mineral exploration, combining this with traditional exploration and mapping techniques to help increase efficiency and confidence. Not only does Cornwall have the potential to produce some of the critical raw materials that the space and aerospace manufacturing supply chain rely on, but businesses are starting to use technology more commonly attributed with the space industry: finding new applications and opening up new intersectoral possibilities. Cornish Lithium – an innovative mineral exploration and research and development company – is one of the key businesses emerging within this new chapter. Having benefited from an R&D grant from AeroSpace Cornwall, it uses satellite and drone data to undertake mineral mapping and structural interpretation. The business has reinterpreted the mineral potential of Cornwall for lithium, combining traditional industry practices with cutting edge technology. Not only has it harnessed technology and big data from the space and aerospace sectors but, by re-evaluating historic mining areas in the region for lithium

12 | BUSINESS CORNWALL

AEROSPACE

CORNWALL

the Cornwall. At technology of t forefron ing. and engineer

S FROM ROCK TO ROCKETS

and other technology metals such as tin, copper and cobalt, the company is also helping build a secure domestic supply chain for these metals. This is vital to the industrial strategy for the UK and the UK’s space & aerospace manufacturing supply chain. Another catalyst in the resurgence of mining within the county is Cornish Metals – a Canadian company whose practices (and new name) have positioned it at the heart of the sector. In July 2016 Cornish Metals acquired South Crofty – arguably one of the most important historical tin mines in the UK. With a new lease of life, the mine now has an operational permit and is set to pave the way for the production of ‘clean tin’ – the project has the potential to be the one of the only high-grade tin producers in Europe and will help meet the growing supply deficit of this vital technology metal. As over 50% of worldwide tin consumption is attributed to high-tech electronics, solar panels and battery production, the extraction of tin will help strengthen the local supply chain for aerospace and space industries within the region. The world-renowned Camborne School of Mines is at the forefront of education and research within the industry, as well as the application and invention of technology. The school continues to evolve its expertise, developing innovative multi-disciplinary and cross-sector projects. Drs Matthew Eyre and Declan Vogt and Professor John Coggan are designing and building ARISE – an autonomous robot. The rover’s ‘brain’ has been developed through GMV’s Space Segment. The unique software within ARISE can be harnessed for all manner of extreme environments, from space to subterranean – the robot is the embodiment of today’s technology being used to create the industry of tomorrow.

Minviro is another new company operating within Cornwall and internationally, focusing on improving the sustainability and reducing environmental impacts of mining and metal projects. Minviro uses data driven solutions such as life cycle assessments to measure and predict the environmental performance of mining projects and propose how these impacts can be mitigated. Minviro uses a combination of data to quantify impacts such as global warming, water use and impacts on biodiversity. They provide a consultancy service to a number of technology metal projects that are in the planning, development or operations stage and have a focus on supporting projects that will provide raw materials for the low carbon economy – as well as the space and aerospace supply chain. Minviro is also developing a software tool to allow mining companies to carry out environmental impact calculations quickly and efficiently. Its work will ensure that these metals will be extracted, processed and refined in a sustainable way and with minimal environmental cost.

This broad range of ne projects bor Cam r nea e, Tincroft tin min by J. C. Burrow Photograph 1890/1910 demonstrates tion.org wellcomecollec how different sectors are marrying the expertise and traditions of the past with the technologies and innovations of today, paving the way for the future of the mining industry through its unique connection with, and contribution to, the aerospace and space sector. Many businesses involved with mining (and associated) industries haven’t yet explored their place in the new ecosystem of industry within Cornwall. The team at AeroSpace Cornwall are looking for businesses with ideas that align with that of the space, data and aerospace industries and the world class expertise in this field within the county: ideas can have applications in any area, including in exploration, mining and extraction, mineral processing, health & safety, training, geotechnics and surveying and elsewhere, and may consist of research and development, manufacturing of equipment, software development, AI (artificial intelligence), drones and satellites, big data or beyond.

Looking for access to funding so you can adapt your business or technologies? Whatever the size of your project, AeroSpace Cornwall can help you navigate these incredible opportunities for diversification. Get in touch with james@aerospacecornwall.co.uk to find out how you can unlock the future of your business.

BUSINESS CORNWALL | 13

BACK

TO WORK

back

to work The last several months have seen unprecedented upheaval in all walks of commercial life. But as they say, the show must go on and many Cornish businesses have been displaying remarkable resilience in the face of adversity

14 | BUSINESS CORNWALL

BACK

Six months ago, most of us were still going out to a place of work. We perhaps visited the gym before work, popped out to buy a takeaway lunch and stopped at the shops on the way home, all without a second thought as to whether that was a healthy or socially acceptable thing to do.

TO WORK

Covid-19 Survey (BICS) (Wave 10 of the fortnightly survey, at time of writing) showed that just under 94% of businesses nationally were currently trading (as opposed to being temporarily closed or paused trading, or ceased trading) compared to under 77% in April (Wave 3). These figures are amplified significantly in the accommodation and food service sector, a sector so dependent on seasonal tourism, where most (83%) have now reopened compared to less than 1 in 5 (18%) being open in April. A survey of over 2,000 employed adults conducted on behalf of Aviva at the very end of June showed a half (49%) of workers were feeling positive about a return to work, with 61% of those returning to work believing their employer will put the right safety measures in place. Unfortunately, 35% of those who do not believe their employer will do enough to make their work environment safe said they won’t be returning.

We happily moved in crowds, got together in low-ceilinged rooms for business events and greeted old and new acquaintances with a customary handshake. Nationwide, according to the Office for National Statistics, only 1.7 million UK workers considered their home as their main place of work prior to the coronavirus pandemic. By the end of March 2020, an estimated 20 million relocated to home offices. Many of us are finding it hard to imagine that the working day will completely return to pre-March normality anytime soon. On July 16, the Prime Minister encouraged people to return to work in August, if they can. A month later and businesses continue to emerge from lockdown. The latest statistics from the Government’s Business Impact of

Back in March, when the Government asked the country’s workforce to work from home if they could, employers were compelled to discover their organisations’ resilience by implementing remote working and business continuity measures, which were largely untested in most cases. In Aviva’s nationwide survey, 42% of employed adults spent lockdown working from home, 26% continued to work in their usual place of business, 21% were furloughed and 6% continued to work in different locations in a key trade (eg, plumber, electrician, et.). A further 5% were not working and not on furlough. In Cornwall, PFA Research’s What Cornwall Thinks panel July survey shows that 37% of working adults are now going out to work compared to just 16%in April. Those working from home remains high at 48% from 54% in April but was just 26% before lockdown, whilst the proportion of respondents furloughed has dropped to 10% from 23% in April. Just under one third of those working from home say they would normally be working from home and for the vast majority (90%) of all the current home workers, they say this situation suits them. There has been a slight increase since April in both the proportion of those working from home and those that state working from home suits them.

BUSINESS CORNWALL | 15

BACK

TO WORK

PFA Research undertakes the Quarterly Economic Survey on behalf of the Cornwall Chamber of Commerce (www.cornwallchamber.co.uk/qes). The Q2 survey in May asked respondents to think about the future (post-coronavirus) and whether they anticipate any significant changes to working practices. Almost four in five (78%) businesses expected to be making important adjustments, with over a third (34%) introducing or increasing remote working, 16% making changes to regular working procedures and 13% each planning to reduce travel for meetings, making more use of technology and permanent implementation of Covid-secure environments.

Thinking about the future (post-coronavirus), do you anticipate any significant changes to your working practices? If yes, what you will be doing differently?

FINDING NEW NORMALS A June survey from the International SOS Foundation, an independent, not-for-profit organisation concerned with duty of care for the global workforce, reported that over 70% of companies’ primary business continuity concern is further disruption from a potential second wave of the Covid-19 pandemic. While there is a current focus on return to work measures, over a fifth (21%) of respondents still didn’t have a pandemic plan and process in place.

Remote working Change of working procedures Less travel/meetings Increase use of Technology Implement Covid-19 guidelines/PPE Loss of buisness Flexible working Create/expand online business Continuous assessing of risk Decrease premises Potentially cease trading Fewer staff

34% 16% 13% 13% 13% 10% 9% 8% 7% 6% 6% 5%

Source: Cornwall Chamber QES, 2020 Q2. Survey of 175 businesses. Base: Chart shows the 78% of businesses that expect to make significant changes to their working practices.

The Q2 survey of Cornish businesses suggests that many will evaluate their use of space and entirely comfortable returning to the office but decided their business can work well as a premises and how such changes may be offset by more use of remote working and technology. almost half (48%) admitted to having some distributed or home-based arrangement. A Some smaller Cornish businessesrisks. have already made the financial or tacticalwhich decision to give up concerns about Covid-related report by Flexioffices, surveyed 391their office premises, having decided their business can work well as a distributed or home-based decision-makers and influencers of office Many businesses are therefore still in the arrangement. A report by Flexioffices, which surveyedspace, 391 decision-makers influencers of office considered theand impact of Covid-19 curious hybrid state of prolonged ‘business space, considered the impact of Covid-19 on premiseson lets, concluding growing importance premises lets,the concluding the growingof continuity’ and ‘return to work’. Reaching flexible contracts as businesses look to reduce their floor space and in the short term and then importance of rent flexible contracts as businesses ‘business as usual’ may be a long haul search for more flexibility in the future. look to reduce their floor space and rent in the destination for many and further where short term and then search for more flexibility PFA Research moved back into its offices at 43% of respondents said they redefined will need flexible business as usual becomes by newcontracts in the future with 22% of respondents in the future. Tremough Innovation Centre; a thoroughly already in a flexible contract. When thinking about future needs, 21% said the floor space will be the smart working strategies. risk assessed decision with a mitigation of most important consideration, 19% said price and 19%43% location. of respondents said they will need PFA Research undertakes the Quarterly revised policies, hand sanitisers, anti-virus flexible contracts the future with AEconomic greater proportion premises have access to full-fibre broadband in in Cornwall than any22% otherof Survey onofbehalf of the equipment wipes, and transparent screens respondents already in a flexible contract. place in theChamber UK. As business models(www. become more digital, as expected by 61% of the 699 global CEOs Cornwall of Commerce between researcher workstations to help staff When thinking about future needs, 21% surveyed by PwC, businesses in Cornwall ought to be well-placed to provide the connected andsaid cornwallchamber.co.uk/ to keep safe and feel confident. the floor space will be the most important lifestyle environmentsqes). needed make remote ThetoQ2 survey in teams and smart working a success. No one is being forced to work consideration, 19% said price and 19% May asked respondents from the office and all have the location. Cornwall ought to think about the future option to return to home-working (post-coronavirus) and A greater proportion of premises have access to be well-placed if they wish. whether they anticipate to full-fibre broadband in Cornwall than any to provide the A recent survey by outsourced any significant changes other place in the UK. As business models communications provider, connected and lifeto working practices. become more digital, as expected by 61% Moneypenny, into the Almost four in five (78%) of the 699 global CEOs surveyed by PwC, style environments return to work post-Covid businesses expected businesses in Cornwall ought to be welllockdown, shows that needed to make to be making important placed to provide the connected and lifestyle 45% of the 1,000 office adjustments, with over a environments needed to make remote teams remote teams and workers interviewed third (34%) introducing and smart working a success. were returning to smart working or increasing remote work immediately, working, 16% making a success with a further 31% changes to regular PFA Research will be undertaking the due back in the working procedures and Q3 wave of the Quarterly Economic next one to 13% each planning to Survey for the Cornwall Chamber in four months. reduce travel for meetings, making more use September and will continue to track However, around 5% said of technology and permanent implementation opinions of Cornish residents through the their employers have of Covid-secure environments. What Cornwall Thinks community panel stated they won’t return www.whatcornwallthinks.com The Q2 survey of Cornish businesses to work until January suggests that many will evaluate their use of 2021 at the earliest, space and premises and how such changes with almost 18% may be offset by more use of remote working having not been and technology. given a date to return as of yet. Some smaller Cornish businesses have already made the financial or tactical decision A third (34%) MAIN ARTICLE CONTINUED ON PAGE 18 to give up their office premises, having said they were

16 | BUSINESS CORNWALL

BACK

A NEW DAWN CORNWALL CHAMBER CEO, KIM CONCHIE, SAYS NOW IS THE TIME FOR 21ST CENTURY INDUSTRIES TO COME TO THE FORE

represent and support all sectors of business across Cornwall. 92% of Cornwall’s businesses have been adversely affected by Covid. So our team, all working seamlessly from home of course, have had innumerable conversations with bemused, angry, distraught business owners and their employees worried about furlough, redundancy, short hours, zero hours; and with British Chambers HQ, Cornwall Council, the LEP, MPs, Cabinet Office, Treasury, with media and other places of business in the world. We’ve run online events, continued to issue export documents (encouragingly back to pre-Covid levels last week) 1-1 advice and mass media info and encouragement.

TO WORK

provenance, traceability, craft, individuality, premium products & attentive services than the mass-produced, homogeneous output of the past. If we look at just one area in which Cornwall is developing expertise – renewable energy – we have tremendous potential. 60% of the UK’s geothermal capacity is under our feet; we have the most hours of sunshine; we have the best access to prevailing winds; and we have the longest coastline of any county in England; so we can be home to natural heat, solar, wind, offshore wind, tidal and wave energy.

If we look at just one area in which Cornwall is developing expertise – renewable energy – we have tremendous potential

I ran my business through the 1987 Black Monday crash, the ’91 recession, the dotcom bubble bursting, 9/11, the 2007 world collapse… but this crisis is more seminal a moment in business life than any of those. It has accelerated - and I hope will be a catalyst for - change from ways we already knew weren’t working. The overuse of fossil fuels, single use plastic, factory farming, cheap labour, unnecessary business travel to name but a few, had been questioned for years but survived those previous bumps. The tech to allow home working has been around for years – but not implemented for all sorts of reasons. Until now. My own experiences of lockdown are irrelevant. As CEO of Cornwall Chamber of Commerce, we’re here to champion,

For the short-term, times are going to be tough. I fear the Government measures in socalled Covid Stage 2 are not going to be enough to avoid redundancies and business closures in several sectors. The cost to human health and the economy would be far worse than if the Treasury announced more expansive measures now to minimise these. But longer term, I think there will be opportunities for Cornwall. Clearly businesses in digital delivery, food & drink delivery and specialising in home working services have prospered already, But wider than this the crisis has made remote working totally acceptable and this will attract knowledge workers to establish and run their businesses from here and mean Cornish residents will more readily be able to stay here to work and bring their earnings to the county.

Both Cornwall’s public vision and personal psyche are better served by today’s interest in

These industries alone are going to need scientists and engineers, diggers and landscapers, marketers and accountants, carers and caterers, divers and drivers to name but a few. Put renewables alongside e-health, marine, agri-tech, sustainable tourism, space & data and you will begin to see 21st Century industries that will enable us to regain our mojo and possibly provide the next golden era for Cornwall. We have two of the best FE colleges, four universities and paid-for programmes like Employer-Led Skills to help people adapt their skillset, retrain or pivot their business for a brighter future in Cornwall. If we can get through the next 100 days, we can lead for the next 100 years.

BUSINESS CORNWALL | 17

BACK

TO WORK

CORNWALL CONQUERING COVID

As the lockdown gates were opened and people flooded back into Cornwall during August, there were tangible signs of relief for the Cornish tourism industry, writes Bishop Fleming audit partner, Alison Oliver. The streets were heaving with visitors escaping from lockdown, and with diners looking to take advantage of the Eat Out to Help Out scheme. Restaurants, bars, and cafes were busy adding vibrancy to Cornish towns and resorts. Many with Government help, survived the Covid-19 crisis, but now must survive the recovery. Owners of hotels and other holiday accommodation reported sharp rises in bookings as people see staycation a safer option that travelling abroad during a pandemic. The Government has provided unprecedented levels of support to businesses this year through tax and VAT deferrals, and through the payment of loans and grants. The furlough scheme has been a key support measure, creating an unparalleled number of enquiries from clients. With its numerous

MANUFACTURING The importance of the manufacturing sector can sometimes be overlooked but has a key role to play in the recovery of the economy. And it has been a rollercoaster ride for Cornwall’s manufacturers, very much reflecting the national picture. Jon Hurrell, CEO of the Cornwall Manufacturers Group (CMG), says: “Since the pandemic reached UK shores in March the manufacturing sector has seen mixed levels of impact on its stability and our members have been dealing with a variety of challenges.

rule changes, the scheme has not been straightforward to administer, but despite this it has successfully allowed employers to cover their wage costs and retain staff. Not everyone has been helped, for example company directors paid in dividends rather than salary, or the newly self-employed. And whilst there have been many business casualties from the lockdown, other firms have managed to keep going and, in some cases, improvise and create new product lines or create new online presences to attract new customers. The reopening of the Cornish economy highlights the critical challenges of supply chains, debt, availability of raw materials, and of course finance. Cash continues to be king, and liquidity will be a decisive factor in conquering Covid-19’s impact. The temporary VAT cuts for the hospitality sector help create an impetus for the public to consume, so the tills are ringing in many places regardless of the administrative issues of dealing with differing VAT rates. Further ongoing help from the government is the current ban on evictions of commercial

“Although all of our members are back up and running after lockdown, 60% of them have seen a significant reduction in orders and unfortunately more than 30% are having to make the difficult decision to reduce the number of people they employ. “However, in contrast, some CMG members have seen stable and, in some cases, increased sales and are currently recruiting as a result. We are also starting to see an increase in orders across the group but perhaps not as quickly as we would like and many of the members think it will be more than 12 months before they fully recover.” During Sir Keir Starmer’s recent visit to Cornwall, the Labour leader highlighted that the Government needed to do more to protect the important sectors of tourism and manufacturing in the county. CMG chair, Eric Nicholls, adds: “The value of UK manufacturing has not always been recognised but these recent

18 | BUSINESS CORNWALL

tenants, backed by a code of conduct to help both tenants and landlords negotiate a way forward. This will be crucial for the future of the high street. All the spending by the Chancellor so far totals around £200 billion, which is a staggering amount, and we wait to see what he will do in the Autumn Budget. Will he start collecting some of this back, or offer new forms of support? We shall see.

months has showcased the invaluable impact the sector has on the economy. We never expected the words reshoring and buying British being voiced across multiple platforms and to see manufacturing being praised for its commitment to the UK is truly encouraging.

During the height of the first wave of the pandemic several of our members have also worked hard to help the NHS and the local care provision by manufacturing face shields, masks, gowns and hand sanitiser

“I might add, that during the height of the first wave of the pandemic several of our members have also worked hard to help the NHS and the local care provision by manufacturing face shields, masks, gowns and hand sanitiser – outside of their usual field of manufacturer. This is something which they will be ready to do again if required.”

BACK

SHIP SHAPE Pendennis Shipyard closed for a short time at the end of March during which time the company put in all possible measures to minimise the risk to staff, contractors and yacht crew. It’s now operating with more than 90% of its total workforce on site, with office staff working from home where possible. “It’s our in-house permanent team that have enabled us to keep working,” says joint MD, Mike Carr. “We always attribute much of our success to our people but in times like these it becomes even more apparent just how important they are. “We have implemented numerous extra measures at our facility for everyone accessing and working at our site. We have introduced return inductions, daily temperature checks, one-way systems, two metre distancing

markings, extra hand-washing stations and an enhanced cleaning schedule amongst many other initiatives. We are listening to our people to make sure that they feel safe, our general risk assessment and Covid Secure declaration is available on our website and we are updating internal guidance documents as the government guidelines change.”

We’re currently working with new shift patterns which enable us to ensure safe social distancing, whilst increasing production levels

Like many businesses during lockdown, Pendennis has taken time to reflect and review working practices.

Mike says: “We’re currently working with new shift patterns which enable us to ensure safe social distancing, whilst increasing production levels. Our four day on, four day off shifts have

TO WORK

allowed the shipyard to remain open seven days a week for continuous project progression. “All of these measures mean that we can continue to work on our refit, restoration and bespoke build projects safely and efficiently.” The pandemic hasn’t slowed business. During the lockdown period Pendennis supported 24 superyachts in Falmouth, ranging from quick stopovers and short works in its basin, to haul outs for longer term refit projects either in the construction halls or covered on our expanse of hard standing. Mike adds: “Since then we have seen even more superyachts coming to Cornwall and we have been delighted to welcome so many new and returning yachts to Falmouth, having chosen Pendennis as a safe haven and a reliable, proven refit shipyard for their upcoming works.”

BUSINESS CORNWALL | 19

BACK

TO WORK

CREATIVE & IT Some business sectors have clearly fared better than others during the lockdown, with IT support services firmly in this camp. “During the initial weeks of the Covid-19 pandemic, NCI saw a huge increase in demand for our services,” says Andy Trish, director of Penryn-based NCI Technologies. “This was due to many of our customers making the transition to remote working. Alongside this we had to adapt overnight to supplying our IT support services as a remote only service, helping to protect the health of our own staff. Our team has risen to the challenge and the situation has offered us the opportunity to develop our remote training, including our new on-demand masterclass resources which are now available online.” Piran Technologies reports a similar picture. Director Alex Pugh said March, in particular was “exceptionally busy” as businesses rushed to remote working. “I think we had 760 phone calls within two and a half days at one point!” she says.

“It seems a good time to embrace change and we will adopt partial home working in the future, but I still believe there are benefits to people coming together regularly, feeling part of something larger and sharing knowledge. I don’t believe it’s the end of the office yet!”

overwhelming kindness from people in all the communities we support online. Thousands of people stepped up to help others through the crisis. From delivering essential groceries and collecting prescriptions for neighbours, to organising online fitness sessions and providing emotional support by phone.”

CF Systems also echoes the rollercoaster nature of the Covid ride. “Demand for us has been quite volatile,” says sales manager Martin Dinham. “In the early stages of the lockdown, we were exceptionally busy as clients got set up for working from home, with all the infrastructure and security implications that this entails. We then saw a definite period of retrenchment but the last couple of months have seen the majority of our clients reverting to business as usual.

The technology sector in general has reportedly been among the more resilient during the crisis. Radix Communications specialises in B2B copywriting for the tech sector and business has been so stable that it hasn’t seen the need to furlough a single member of staff.

It seems a good time to embrace change and we will adopt partial home working in the future

“Clearly there has been some significant variation across clients depending on their business and industry sector, but overall the impact on us has so far been less than anticipated.”

Compared to a lot of companies, we’ve been lucky so far,” admits creative director David McGuire. “The B2B technology sector we work in appears to be relatively well protected. In fact, several of the tech brands we write for have been instrumental in helping people to change the way they work – and they’ve needed our copy to help them explain that. “As a result, demand has been pretty stable. We haven’t furloughed anyone, or asked for any special funding – instead, our challenges have been around adapting to working from home – supporting people and helping them to feel like a team. We’ve allowed more time for team catchups and quality control, we’ve put new communications in place, and we’re working with Craig Fearn from Business Mental Wellbeing to give easy access to psychological support where it’s needed.”

ALEX PUGH, PIRAN TECHNOLOGIES This initial burst was followed by a slowdown, as the furlough scheme kicked in, but picked up again from June as businesses gradually resumed more normal operations. And along with many of its customers, Piran Tech has been reviewing some of the ways it works going forward.

20 | BUSINESS CORNWALL

Service design and technology company Made Open also reports it had a busy start to the pandemic. Director Kathryn Woolf says: “Our community platform experienced a surge in demand as our clients responded to the challenges facing their communities. “Clients in Cornwall, Bristol, Devon and Wales utilised our platform to coordinate volunteers and share information, whilst users were able to find support and exchange offers of help. “Throughout the despair,” says Kathryn, “it has been heart-warming to see to the

Many in the creative sectors - graphic design, marketing etc – have probably felt the challenges more acutely than the pure-play tech sector. Falmouth design company Gendall, for instance, reports having been in a process of constant evolution since February. “A number of our major clients have been hit hard by the pandemic and this in turn has meant that we have had to re-evaluate and adapt the focus of our business,” says MD Greg Welch. “We have enjoyed turning our skills in strategy, design and technology to helping growth businesses develop themselves in the county, from business model design, and brand development to digital marketing and e-commerce, the pandemic has enabled us

BACK

to identify new opportunities to apply our value creation services.” Greg says that he has been buoyed by the camaraderie and ‘can-do’ attitude of the Cornish business community and believes there are positives to be drawn. “There is something special happening in the county at the moment, a movement that is rapidly accelerating creativity, innovation and entrepreneurship, it is fun to be part of and challenging in equal measures, but above all it gives us hope of a brighter future.”

during the lockdown temporarily turning their e-commerce functionality off whilst they reorganised processes to cope with the demand and increase in orders.” Even prior to the pandemic, HookedOnMedia has employed a flexible working policy with team members working from home from time to time. But while the company already had systems in place to work from home, Stewart does not believe this is a full-time solution. “Remote working has many benefits and is working very well, however the office environment, sparking ideas off each other, and picking up background chatter on projects also has its own unique benefits.” Lucy Studley is a freelance PR and marketeer specialising in communication for food and drink businesses. She was braced for impact as soon as lockdown started to look like a possibility.

Truro-based digital marketing agency HookedOnMedia says it has been impacted by the pandemic via its clients and their industries. MD Stewart Roode explains: “Essentially it has boiled down to which sector our clients are operating in, those in publicfacing roles ranging from leisure and tourism to health care have felt the worse of the pandemic, having to close venues, moth-ball premises and reduce digital marketing campaigns.

“I was on call 24/7 for clients,” she says, “offering support and comms advice as things went from bad to worse. I spoke to many people in the hospitality industry who were absolutely devastated at having to close their doors just before Easter, but everyone recognised that it had to be done to save lives.”

Clients with an existing online channel have often thrived, some experiencing an increase in demand

“In these scenarios, we created relief rates to maintain key areas of SEO presence and traffic ready for the come-back whilst also often pausing paid ad activity such as Google ads and Social ads for the short-term. “However clients with an existing online channel have often thrived, some experiencing an increase in demand over and above what they can deliver, in extreme cases

Some clients were able to keep Lucy on during the lockdown to work on specific projects, but she had to fall back on work outside of the hospitality sector and also the Government’s Self Employment Support Allowance. However, the work is now returning, and her business, Cornwall Content is almost back at capacity once again. “There is a mixture of positivity and concern in the industry at the moment,” Lucy says. “People are happy to be back doing what they do best, but there is certainly a lot of worry about the future.”

TO WORK

THE KING OF NETWORKING

Down the years there have been many claimants to the throne, but the current undisputed king of networking must be David Brock, commonly known as Brock. Since launching the networking group Cornish Partnerships in January 2018, its growth has been meteoric. From what started out with the idea of just a single group in Cornwall meeting once or twice a month, with a 100 members, it has since expanded across the Tamar and beyond, renaming as Your Partnerships in the process, boasting more than 1000 members and almost daily events. For a group that boasts such a packed diary, you would have thought that lockdown would have had a devastating impact. But far from it. Brock and his Your Partnerships cohorts have been quick to adapt. “About two months prior to lockdown we had been investigating doing networking online and we actually held our very first online event on March 17 just before the official lockdown with 45 participants on the first event,” he recalls. “We also immediately shifted all networking online the following week, so our shift was immediate.” Rather than having been a huge obstacle to the group’s growth, Brock believes lockdown has actually helped Your Partnerships. He says: “Your Partnerships has never been stronger and we have grown at a faster rate than we ever did in face to face meetings. “We have learned to use new tools and we are engaging with businesses worldwide. We just launched a Your Partnerships Global event in Australia and this is following the already successful events in both South Africa and USA. We have ambassadors that are locally hosting the events and we are finding amazing results.” Even once the pandemic is beaten and the shackles have released from large gatherings, Brock believes many facets of the new normal will remain. “Virtual networking is here to stay,” he insists. “Only the future will tell us how much is online and how much is face to face. In Your Partnerships we survey our members to find out what they prefer and do what our members ask for as long as it is safe.”

BUSINESS CORNWALL | 21

BACK

TO WORK

GLASS HALF FULL Jo Downs Glass Design makes all of its products in its Launceston studio and retails them through six galleries across Cornwall and another in Surrey. While online sales had been growing steadily year-on-year, it had never focused on the Internet as much as it would have liked…until lockdown struck. General manager Nick Toulson recalls: “Because we no longer had to focus on any other arms of the business, Jo myself and the despatch team leader were able to focus on

AROUND THE TOWNS Cornwall’s Business Improvement Districts (BID) have been at the front line, fighting for town centre businesses in these difficult times. Camborne BID manager Anna Pascoe says: “Camborne’s high street traders have been adapting and keeping positive insofar as possible. “It has been inspiring and rewarding to see how quickly they have adapted and started providing online ordering, takeaway and delivery services. “Businesses which were eligible for the £10k grant welcomed the speed and ease with which the funding was disbursed and the Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme has provided interim relief to many. Successful, independent SMEs, on the other hand, have been adversely affected in terms of the help available to them.”

“We are currently looking at the business as a whole and have realised that in order to grow you sometimes have to reduce which is why we are looking at all our arms of the business and asking those ongoing questions: ‘do we need them, what are they preventing us from doing, and what

months of closure with the loan, whilst also coping with reduced revenue, bringing staff off furlough and operating in compliance with social distancing for the foreseeable future. “Those sums just don’t add up,” she says, “and BID has been calling for extra support for businesses like them, along with beauty, massage, tattoo and leisure operators who remain restricted from earning a living.”

Having to reopen and implement all of the Government requirements was a daunting prospect after having been closed for such a long time but there is now a real air of confidence and some tell-tale signs that our town is bouncing back

Tyacks Hotel, for example, Camborne’s oldest business, has been ineligible for anything other than a bounce back loan. Anna says it has missed the key cash flow that Mother’s Day, Easter, Trevithick Day, bank holidays and summer festivals usually provides yet is somehow expected to cover the cost of four

22 | BUSINESS CORNWALL

the Internet. We did a 20% off sale and the sales started to increase. Jo was creating new pieces and larger ones to see if they would sell and sell they did. In the first ten weeks of lockdown we had sales increases of +350% year on year.

A Similar picture is painted over in Newquay, although unlike Camborne, many of its businesses rely on the tourism trade which since July 4, has experienced a bounce back. Newquay BID manager, Carla Marie Jones, said: “Lockdown was a challenging time for most of Newquay’s businesses with many forced to close and the streets experiencing their quietest Easter and start to summer ever.

“Since the town reopened in strategically phased stages, it has been fantastic to see Newquay come alive again, welcoming visitors, tourists and locals back to the town to enjoy our diverse business landscape. We’re delighted with how responsible the retailers and businesses have been since reopening, ensuring safety measures are in place for all.

“For some businesses, having to reopen and implement all of the Government requirements was a daunting prospect after having been closed for such a long time but there is now a real air of confidence and some tell-tale signs that our town is bouncing

will we benefit from if we were no longer have them?’. “The future is uncertain for any company, especially those in Cornwall and even more so those that rely on tourism as heavily as we do. We have to be lean, we have to ensure that what we are offering is unique and we have to reach those people that are not going to travel here. The future may not be too bright but there is a future and especially one for those companies that are willing to diversify and look at alternatives and opportunities as we have.”

back. Our advantage lies in the fact that we are a tourist destination and people want to come and spend time here. Especially with restrictions and uncertainty around foreign travel at the moment, meaning people will no doubt want to spend more leisure time staycationing here in the UK and Newquay is perfectly set up for this.” Falmouth is another Cornwall’s towns that benefit from the visitor economy. Its BID came up with a Positive Engagement Plan to help the town get back on its feet, with initiatives ranging from branded hand sanitisers stationed across the town to a hope-filled ‘Falmouth, Spirit of the Sea’ rainbow logo. It also engaged a series of performance artists to help disseminate important safe distancing, pedestrian flow and street-smart messages in a quirky and imaginative way over the holiday period. “Of course, there’s a serious message here,” explains Falmouth BID manager Richard Wilcox. “We as a Town Team, have been on the front foot to rollout a wide range of safety measures to support the town, its resident and business communities as part of our Positive Engagement Plan. In fact, the plan has also been utilised and adopted as a template by many other towns and villages in Cornwall and we have also been asked to provide regional leadership to ensure there is a Cornwall-wide collaborative approach to the huge challenge we all face.” “A huge amount of planning and provision has gone on behind the scenes to make Falmouth safe and welcoming to our local, and further afield visitors, but of course the responsibility lies in all of us. The introduction of performing artists who will adapt their routines to incorporate safety messaging in a fun and imaginative way, is a quirky and original strand on top of the wide range of flexible and responsive support measures already rolled out.”

BACK

FULLY BOOKED Tourism is an absolutely vital part of Cornwall’s economy, accounting for something like 40% of its GDP. For many weeks, it seemed unlikely that there would be a season at all but to the collective relief of the entire industry, these fears were unfounded. That doesn’t mean to say, of course, that there is any certainty going forward, but for the time being at least, many have just been happy to be back in business. Those early weeks of lockdown, however, were highly worrying times. “The first month of lockdown was all about crisis management,” recalls Martin Barlow, owner of the Budock Vean Hotel, “deciding who I needed to continue working to support the business, of which there were eight plus myself, and then furloughing the remaining 74 employees; agreeing terms with all our suppliers so we could continue to pay them over time; communicating with our guests and postponing their bookings; producing a new business plan and getting finance in place etc. “Once the situation had stabilised, there was then time to plan and to start to think about how we would re-open, without knowing exactly when that might be. I spent a lot of time reading and researching. As industry guidance started to emerge, this helped form a framework for our own Covid-19 risk assessment, which in turn led to our own safe operating procedures. “These procedures were later organised into a 60-page Covid-19 Employee Handbook/Safe Operating Procedures Manual, covering all aspects of how we would operate the hotel, when we were allowed to re-open. I further distilled this to produce a customer-facing Safe Stay Guide for our guests and members, as well as a series of safe user guides for all our facilities including the golf course, tennis courts, health spa, swimming pool and hot tub, boat and kayaking trips.”

TO WORK

The Budock Vean invested in some new technology initiatives such as a remote check in and check out app and Tersano SAO, a ‘structured ozone disinfectant system’.

But since restrictions were lifted, just like the Budock Vean, business has been good.

Martin says this time spent and attention to deal has been vital.

“We weren’t sure what to expect but demand has been huge and we’ve had a record August,” said Dulce Marques, the hotel’s general manager. “We have been able to take all our bookings direct, rather than via online travel agencies, and rates have been excellent.

“I believe we have responded to the challenges of re-opening under Covid-19 guidelines very successfully,” he says. “Certainly, in the first four weeks, the direct response from our guests and the on-line reviews have been overwhelmingly positive, with people appreciating the measures we have implemented. I do believe that we have managed to achieve the difficult balance between the overriding priority of ensuring that all our visitors and staff are safe and ensuring that the guests experience is still one they feel is enjoyable and worthwhile.”

“Most of our guests are choosing to dine with us, rather than going into Fowey and trying to book a table. The town is really busy, so it’s easier for them to eat here.

Our September bookings are also very strong, and winter reservations are going well too

Once lockdown was lifted, the Budock Vean was swiftly operating at capacity with Martin also reporting “very healthy” bookings into the shoulder season of September and October. He is optimistic that 2020 revenue could still reach two-thirds of 2019, which all considered, would be a remarkable achievement.

“However, uncertainties remain about the winter months,” he cautions, “as some of our business does really on large groups being able to attend Christmas and New Year celebrations. We are developing alternative plans for these and hope that we can avoid any further significant lockdowns local or otherwise.” Fowey Hall Hotel had just completed a multi-million pound refurbishment when lockdown struck. Within just a few days of a grand reopening, it had to close shop again, furloughing all but four members of its staff.

“Our September bookings are also very strong, and winter reservations are going well too. I think families are desperate to get away after so many months in lockdown and what better place to choose than a beautifully refurbished hotel in a glorious coastal location.” The lettings side of the sector has also reported a strong bounce back.

Cornish Gems reports an 108% year-onyear increase in bookings to date, a 130% increase in holiday sales and a 50% yearon-year rise in advance bookings for 2021 – indicating that the demand for staycations in the county is showing no sign in slowing. In the hours following the Government’s confirmation that domestic tourism restrictions were to be eased, traffic to the Cornish Gems website increased by 65%, page views were up by 92% and momentum continues with new users up, year-on-year, by 168%. It’s not only bookings seeing a significant spike, with the portfolio team recording a vast increase in enquiries from investors looking to expand their property portfolio in Cornwall – nine new luxury properties were added to the Cornish Gems collection during lockdown. Cornish Gems co-founder, Julianne Shelton, says: “Despite the exceptionally challenging months of lockdown we’re pleased to see the summer weeks now fully booked, and that demand is continuing into the autumn with occupancy rates looking like they will achieve 100% week on week right through to November after the October half term holidays.”

BUSINESS CORNWALL | 23

BACK

TO WORK

COVID

stories

When lockdown struck in March, the rug was immediately pulled out from beneath the feet of Cornwall’s hospitality businesses. We speak to four local business owners to hear how they have managed through the pandemic Businesses have had to think on their feet and adapt their plans and the way they operate just to survive.

decided to embrace the situation as a route to becoming a more environmentally friendly business in preparation for a greener postlockdown world. Scarlet Wines is now thought to be the only wholesaler in the south west with a fully electric transport system. Jon asked his customers whether they wanted him to continue with a delivery service post-lockdown and the answer came back unequivocally – yes! So it seems the business has evolved permanently as a result of the crisis. “We used the complete break from normality to adapt our business model and dramatically reduce our carbon footprint,” he says. “Covid-19 is an awful thing, but it has made a lot of people re-evaluate their priorities – hopefully positive change will follow.”

NEW PUB

Scarlet Wines, which has a small retail shop but relies mostly on wholesale, is a typical example. It faced by far the biggest challenge in its ten-year history. However, founder Jon Keast knew he could weather the storm by adapting quickly. After all, he had the thing everyone wanted during lockdown (wine!) he just needed to find new delivery mechanisms. So overnight Scarlet Wines went from a wholesale wine merchant to a private delivery service. Jon put his whole catalogue online (no mean feat with over 300 lines), took orders via email, and delivered to the doors of the thirsty citizens of west Cornwall. Scarlet’s new entirely electric delivery van was certainly putting in the miles, but Jon wanted to go a step further. He decided the time was right to invest in an e-cargo bike for deliveries in St Ives town. This turned out to be a particularly good move, as the town centre was subsequently closed to vehicles (but not the Scarlet bike!) during peak times each day. For Jon and his team, simply adapting wasn’t enough; they

24 | BUSINESS CORNWALL

for the ideal second site for some time and, despite difficult trading conditions, refused to be thwarted in acquiring The Packet Inn near Prussia Cove – even by a global pandemic. The new opening has created jobs and provided a much-needed boost for suppliers as the autumn approaches. “I will always be an optimist,” he says. “I just can’t help myself! I have so much faith in the quality and reputation of the Cornish food and hospitality scene, in the talented people who deliver and supply it, and in the level of support and appreciation from the public that I can’t help but feel we’ll come out of this stronger eventually.”

FIGHT FOR SURVIVAL

The start of lockdown was an intensely difficult period for all in the hospitality business, including Ben Tunnicliffe and his team at The Tolcarne Inn. Ben initially thought about launching a takeaway service, but it just wasn’t viable and safe to do so at the 300-year-old Inn, so almost the entire staff had to be furloughed. Ben then heard about a scheme to provide free hot meals for residents in Newlyn who were struggling. He immediately offered the services of the pub to host the scheme, and his staff eagerly volunteered their time. Together they prepared and cooked almost 1,700 nutritious meals, free of charge to recipients referred by the Fishermen’s Mission, local schools and community groups.

The service was organised by the Fishing Animateur team in Newlyn and supported by Seafood Cornwall Training Ltd, and the cost of the ingredients was funded by grants from the Fishmongers’ Company and Seafarers UK. Ben says: “The project is a source of great pride and it gave us something positive to focus on during what was mentally a very difficult time.” And then, determined to come out of the crisis stronger than ever, Ben embarked on the launch of a second pub. He had been looking

There probably hasn’t been a worse time to launch a new restaurant in living memory. Chef Ben Prior had just opened his intimate fine dining operation (Ben’s Kitchen at 27 The Terrace) in St Ives, when disaster struck. He’d been serving customers for two days when the Government ordered an immediate lockdown of the entire hospitality sector. Months of preparation and investment were rendered useless in an instant. Ben and his team unfortunately fell through the gaps in support, and neither a Government grant nor the furlough scheme was accessible to them. The financial consequences put a strain on everyone, but they could have been dire had it not been for several factors. Firstly Ben is resourceful and resilient, and was soon delivering his food far and wide as part of ‘Ben’s At Home’ dine-in service. Secondly, like many in the industry, Ben has a loyal customer base keen to support him in any way they could – including buying some of the South African wine he imports direct. Thirdly, mutual aid is never far away in Cornwall; Ben was soon working alongside Mick Smith of the Porthminster Collection, initially offering takeaways and now as part of the team at the reopened Porthminster Kitchen.

BACK

The crisis has changed Ben’s way of thinking. “I always thought about worse case scenarios, but a global pandemic was something I never envisaged – I don’t think anyone in the industry did,” he says. “The restaurant I had planned to open was a small, fine dining set-up. With social distancing we could now only serve six people each evening; it’s just not viable to open under those circumstances. “However, we in the hospitality sector are hardworking and resilient. If anyone can get through this it’s us. We’re already starting to think of ways we could make a living should a second lockdown happen. I think in the future we’re going to see even more creativity and adaptability in the sector as a result of what has happened.”

CARRY ON SMILING The Driftwood Spars was one of the many complex and multifaceted businesses for which lockdown posed a huge challenge. Accommodation, weddings, brewery, restaurant, bar – Landlady Louise Treseder admits she felt like a rabbit in the headlights at times.

Once she’d overseen the early stages of shutdown, including rearranging a huge list of bookings and furloughing most of the staff, Louise turned her attention to the brewery. With a new head brewer to support, a craft beer range scheduled to be launched, and a new website long overdue, it was an area of the business where her work would reap rewards.

TO WORK

WINNERS AND LOSERS Business that have adapted are the ones that are thriving, says Zamu accountant Samantha Perkin.

The range of craft beers - The Cove - has been a lockdown hit, garnering praise for Head Brewer Mike Mason as he settles into his new role. The website is live, and online orders coming in. Louise 1, Covid 0. However, getting the historic and rambling pub fully operational again is a challenge Louise is still grappling with. She created a socially-distanced beer garden in the car park and only allowed B&B guests in the pub initially, then in the next phase of reopening diners and drinkers were allowed back inside. In what the pub jokingly referred to as ‘St Agnes’s own version of the Crystal Maze,’ visitors were challenged to “navigate the one-way system, remain contact-less at all times and use our online ordering system without ‘accidentally’ ordering an extra portion of chips.” Despite the difficulties, the pub has been praised by locals and visitors alike for creating a safe environment with strong procedures in place and doing so with a smile – perhaps the greatest triumph of all. Louise says: “We’re treading a fine balance between making the pub totally inhospitable to the virus but still hospitable to customers, who still expect and deserve the warm Cornish welcome they’re used to at The Driftwood. Every day is a learning curve at the moment!”

Many clients in tourism/hospitality or supplying to these industries are still finding life very hard, with all grants long since gone and the issue now is to continue to trade past October when furlough finishes. They have brought staff out of furlough for the temporary increase in business and watching carefully with plans to furlough staff again if necessary. Some are feeling pessimistic and business closures could increase towards end of year. Farmers and food producers have been affected badly if they supply direct to restaurants/hotels/cafes or close to the supply chain. Here no grants exists (unless rural rates or SBRR or some milk producer) and furlough doesn’t work as farms still need to be cared for. Those selling direct to the end user have been having a great deal of success. Retail – If a specialist shop with loyal customers they tend to be in a stronger position. However, there are concerns about reduced turnover against fixed overheads such as rent etc. There are of course winners and losers in the current climate. Businesses that have adapted their business and innovated are thriving. As an example, a tech company that produced a visitor flow at a tourist attraction via an app, now tell visitors where the quieter zones are and assists with social distancing. So, one solution modified to meet new needs that nobody would have believed 12 months ago. Businesses need to keep an eye on the money, watch their costs and as always getting cash in the bank and not turnover is the key.

BUSINESS CORNWALL | 25

BACK

TO WORK

ON CALL “FSB has dealt with hundreds of calls and continue to do so. Our role in helping our members to campaign for and navigate the help schemes and find solutions for those who were not eligible has been all consuming but a privilege. Why? Because Cornish businesses have simply risen to the challenge of this pandemic. Through situations of real hardship, they have demonstrated their incredible value to their communities by being innovative and fleet of foot, changing what they do to keep going all whilst supporting the vulnerable when going through hell themselves.” Ann Vandermeulen, FSB Cornwall

THE TWILIGHT ZONE Worldwide Financial Planning CEO Peter McGahan shares his thoughts on what has been a very strange few months ‘If you can’t change something, change how you think about it, and what you do about it’. That’s the normal mantra, but more so over the last few Twilight Zone months. In reality, we moved to ‘remote working’ 15 years ago by moving most of our work to a secure server. If you are sat on a social distanced boat in the Maldives or a random pub in Belfast, you just need the connection, and hey presto. The Covid scenario has forced the necessity for us all to be able to work like that and our staff have been ultra professional and responded well to get the work done. We had to furlough three staff because their jobs didn’t exist (ie a receptionist who greets customers) but we called them regularly and paid them full pay. They are important to us, and the rest of the team want to know they are ok too.

26 | BUSINESS CORNWALL

Remote working has been cool for many, especially with the nice weather, and we trust our staff. Will it take over? I don’t think so. Flexibility is there, but a fundamental psychological requirement is to be part of a team, to be part of a wider community, to laugh with your colleagues, and to be there for each other. Nothing can take us away from that need, but we will see what the return to work in September brings us all. The short-term future is very much driven by fear and confusion. The FTSE 100 is often used as a measure of the UK stock market and its resilience. That is misleading, bordering on dishonest to consider doing that. The FTSE 100 is a global index with circa 70% of income from overseas assets, so with a weak sterling, the income is exaggerated upwards when it comes in.

Brexit hasn’t even arrived yet, and it looks like it will be a hard one. Markets/economies don’t like uncertainty, which is why the UK as an overseas investment destination has been unloved for so long.

There has been nothing sustainable that has driven that loop to become positive which is why in UK domestic stocks, value stocks have literally been battered. The ‘Boris bounce’ didn’t happen. We’ll all need to be nimble and fleet of foot to achieve our objectives in

Newton’s law says there is an equal and opposite reaction to every action. Consider this if you are worried about strategy: On March 17, just as the UK was about to start taking Covid seriously, would you have considered Cineworld as an investment. It is one of the largest cinema chains in the world.

Fear paralyses people and makes them weak, it blocks creativity and creates a negative feedback loop

Sterling and the FTSE Allshare have had a torrid time against most developed markets and that isn’t set to change with UK domestic stocks as loved as Donald Trump turning up to babysit your children.

Fear paralyses people and makes them weak, it blocks creativity and creates a negative feedback loop. The country needs direction and leadership to flip that around.

business and potentially completely reinvent how we operate.

Someone did. They rose 365% over less than three months. Social distancing?

In lockdown, we have taken the time to reassess company objectives, strategy and culture and recreate our direction. Undoubtedly, there has been pain in the market and we are actively talking to those financial advisers who wish to either join us or sell. I can see that multiplying.

BACK

TO WORK

A NEW ERA FOR

employers

Following the Covid-19 crisis, businesses are now looking to the future, and from an employment law perspective, the landscape is now quite different. Employers are faced with a full range of challenging considerations including redundancies, employees returning to work safely, managing those working from home, as well as the furlough scheme and changes in legislation. Employment law expert at Coodes Solicitors, Philip Sayers, discusses the implications of the new era and shares his tips for employers to keep in mind. REORGANISATION

RETURNING TO THE WORKPLACE

Since the start of lockdown, many businesses have had to ask staff to work from home, increase remote working and introduce new processes in order to survive. Roles may have changed and there could now be an opportunity to examine and re-structure the business.

From 1 August 2020 employers can ask employees working from home to return to the workplace, provided reasonable steps have been taken to ensure premises are Covid-19 secure. A risk assessment must be carried out and published for staff to see. Section 44 of the Employment Rights Act states that employees can refuse to return to the workplace where they have a reasonable belief there is ‘serious and imminent danger’ to health and safety. Any refusals to return to the workplace must be properly considered with the benefit of legal advice.

My number one tip to employers is to communicate with your employees. People are fearful of change and will have concerns over job security. Engaging with your employees as early as possible will help maintain productivity and provide a better emotional journey.

Employees can refuse to return to the workplace where they have a reasonable belief there is ‘serious and imminent danger’ to health and safety

REDUNDANCY If you are in a position where it’s possible that redundancies have to be made, I would always recommend employers speak with a lawyer first to ensure the correct legal process is followed. This includes understanding whether you have to enter into a collective redundancy process and to manage consultations with employees. A redundancy situation will be a stressful time, particularly for businesses suffering financially, therefore making sure you have the right advice and support is vital.

THE FURLOUGH SCHEME

As changes to the furlough scheme continue, employers have to think about whether to bring staff back permanently or use the ‘flexible furlough’ scheme – where staff can return on a pro-rata basis. There is an increasing cost of keeping people on furlough as employers now need to pay National Insurance contributions, pension contributions, and from the start of September, 10% of salaries. This increases to 20% from the start of October until the scheme closes completely on 31 October.

Many employees may wish to continue to work from home, whether on a full-time or part-time basis. My advice is to firstly review whether your employee is able to continue working from home safely. Although employers were unable to carry out a full risk assessment of homes at the time of lockdown, steps can now be taken. My number one tip here is to check you have all the right policies in place to cover employees working from home – including how you deal with flexible working requests. Homeworking also comes with an increased risk of GDPR breaches and data theft, given that many employees will have been using their own devices. Having robust IT and data protection policies is vital to ensure your business is protected.

At Coodes, we are currently offering a no-commitment consultation service to support employers through this time of change. For more details please contact the Employment team: 0800 328 3282 or cde@coodes.co.uk

WORKING FROM HOME Home working is looking to be the biggest change that will survive post-pandemic.

BUSINESS CORNWALL | 27

GROWTH

HUB

COVID-19

case files The Cornwall and Isles of Scilly Growth and Skills Hub has been helping hundreds of local businesses through the coronavirus pandemic as they adapt and discover new markets. From creatives to copywriters, gym junkies to gardeners, here is a selection of the clients they have helped across the Covid-19 period.

: T NAME CONTAC

ennett Becky B Sands and Ria SS: BUSINE

Think Fit

ering se: ed to deliv 9 respon s was us s e Covid-1 in source in a s u m b s es as it d fitness m e s m a ra -b g ro ro p ving This Tru e fitness ame, mo kdown c ce-to-fac c fa lo k nline n e e e h n 12-w with a o ready w continue , but was to e n m la o p c y in e of Now th g online. had everythin ID-19. V O ened, we after C wn happ o d k nd had c element a lo e l ce-to-fac the actua fa e f o m ti s e rm th in te Ria: “By business losed the online.” re e w already c e d it so w te o iv p y d alrea Helped: usiness wth Hub port for b ro G e th right sup e th How to and Ria ng Becky ng. hey Signposti d marketi n a th Hub. T e financ the Grow d h it w t w a planning, e h w ante lly good c erything v a e re a to d d r a e e h of oth d listen Becky: “I me to lots helpful an lly, really nposted ig s m a call e d n th a e , were rea s ate to giv it e busines s e th h h it ’t n w ld to do itive, wou es.” really pos next stag e th help. So h g u ro th t a h c back and

28 | BUSINESS CORNWALL

: T NAME CONTAC

towe Rachel S SS: BUSINE

towe Rachel S Textiles s used to se: achel wa 9 respon rience, R e p x Covid-1 e rds and ’ a rs c tiles, gift ith 20 yea x w te t g is n pplied rt lli a essfully a s and se A textile She succ kly classe . e s e e her w ri ild g lle u n a ri b g delive oney to ops and rough sh sed the m u th s ry a h lle e d jew Loan an e sales. nceback wing onlin g on all for a Bou nd is gro a in b a w, workin c shop cabin no t a th eting rk to own work a ll move it a ting on m oncentra oping to c h t d s n ju a p “I’m ing it u and build again.” my stock rkshops o w y m g in rt and sta

ed: tion Hub Help , informa Growth s support s e cting in s te u ro How the b p t creative dvice on a lis ia d c n e a p g s g g trainin Accessin marketin e, digital ally on financ at was re . th Hub th w ro her brand ying to G tr e t with th ut mainly hone cha of tips, b p s ng a d ti a d e lo a rk h e “I ave m the ma hey just g orking on w d n a s helpful. T ard oving forw sort out m with me.”

SKILLS AME: ACT N CONT lly

cIna Rob M ESS: BUSIN

g addlin P c M Rob

nse: respo 9 1 id ing Cov n offer as bee le d d Rob h a p nalised ayaking perso k ar d the ye ing an lier in board r a e e r eathe s, som oor w oliday d to After p ank H . B 6 y 1 e a 0 d cide 2 and M since , Rob r it e te h d s n u a dow ns in B forward to E n lock ting. sessio it’s r. Whe king a o e marke y lo d f s n and n o a s e e it m s he wa ti my ow roperly b t e n s o w ie ff s is bu gh np s stu of the provin it dow usines ge.” at to s time im f the b packa re o d g d t n s e e lo a h p a s is w n e it fi n o o d fly s a more lways on the t I do “I’ve a n a bit e wha e k e a b m s d alway site an e web ning with th s plan : usines elped digital b H , n e b a u ic v H ls d d e h a d t l o w ia ro ss m financ the G busine t with How y about uppor n s o b ti o a ite eas gR inform It’s qu . d n Findin n y io a tr , is to dec ategy quickly rush a and str skills. t really not to that u g is o n re ti e ts e fo r ic e mark ess be of adv of adv in it s b ink ts u t lo th b s igge ing, I push good “The b ed to s com had a r e s.” e n e u o m lu u y a o ky g custo with your v . But if in k c tt to thin a e b g king were et you of stic d you and g a case ing an t k s r o ju w ’s was ack. It ome b it will c

HUB

CONTACT NAME:

Oliver Huddlestone BUSINESS:

Oliver James Gardens Covid-19 response: Turning over a new leaf and starting a business at the beginning of 2020 was the realisa tion of a long-held dream for Oliver Huddlestone. His busine ss, Oliver James Garde ns, launched at the very end of January this year. Hopes were high, ambitious goals had been set. COVID-19 , however, put much of this on ice. After a reassessment of how work could look withou t the need for client interaction, Oliver kicksta rted his business and the results have been nothing but fruitful. How the Skills Hub He lped: Time is precious when launching a new busine ss, and improving your expertise and buildin g upon your skillset is vita l when readying yourself to hit the ‘Go’ button. “The contact I’ve had wit h the Skills Hub has bee n beneficial for me and the business, and it has taken a weight off my mind. It has been a real help as I’ve been recommended training that I’d never have been able to find myself ,” he said.

ME: CT NA CONTA CONTACT NAM E:

Kerri Hall BUSINESS:

Covid-19 re

Kerri Hall Communicati ons

sponse: With most fre elancers alre ady adopting model, Kerri the home-wor used the paus king e in operatio clients to take ns for many stock and as of her se ss services have the value that previously ad her skills and ded. “Initially my cl ients all put th eir work on ho thought ever ld, and I kind ything was do of omed and th over. I realised e freelance dr that I needed ea m was to use this time together a pr wisely by pu oposal sayin tting g here is wha when you ar t you need to e ready and do next sure enough back through, work is startin ” Kerri said. g to come How the Sk ills Hub Hel ped: Kerri used th e lockdown period to inve her business st in both he , connecting rself, and with the Skills technical expe Hub to spruce rtise. up her “I needed he lp figuring ou t the business price points side of things to bookkeep , from ing and adm by how muc in. I was real h information ly surprised I was sent ba it has given m ck to be hone e the knowle st, and dge to know business in a that I am taki safe direction, ng my ” she said.

arie Carla-M Jones ESS: BUSIN

ay BID Newqu

Districts vement ro p nd : Im e ons iness ns beyo 19 resp hit, Bus peratio o n t g w u o in o d u Covidh k s loc contin ge wit ronaviru ed that challen m o is s o c n u fr g e o o ri d th c e e As sourc ntry re me a s d the cou ld beco ts being n u n a e o l a w m c y s a across nth g of lo f levy p mer mo lobbyin ource o er BIDs the sum ollective c come s with oth in to g ry d in a e rk m rn o ri w tu p their , a ir il the s. Carl counc nce for e local assista sinesse u th w b s o l fl a a h ll c s lo as we cial ca l MPs, re finan nationa to secu ll a w rn Co across l. a iv rv a su m and : little ge d a e is lp ] d e s n it ub H [Watkis eriod a Skills H tic; Ian t this p e s u o th ta h my n g w ff fa u Ho n fire o ils thro s been ed ema one I ca Hub ha e g d of n ls m il n a o k e h s S c “The t at the ave ex there is h h t g e li a W th is . th g dit t there ent, bo knowin total cre see tha velopm portive e to p d ,” g u d s in th n h n grow wth a refres has bee e key to to, and y for gro it th s n p is u rt m g u o in pp , learn brain d future o after all nel and ionally, s s fe the tun ro p ally and person . she said BUSINESS CORNWALL | 29

EDUCATION

FOCUS

Key to

recovery Adele Bull, programme team leader at Truro and Penwith College Business covers the impact of Covid-19 on the training and education sector, and the college’s new support package that is helping businesses to bounce back HOW HAS COVID-19 AFFECTED THE COLLEGE AND EDUCATION SECTOR? Initially through the loss of face-to-face teaching and student contact. The college moved quickly when lockdown was announced to ensure it continued to deliver timetabled lessons online through our Connected College Initiative. Our open event calendar, usually a great time for faceto-face conversations, was also postponed. We pulled together some great digital content as an alternative, with tutors discussing learning areas and the options in “Subject Spotlights” that continue to help with student choice on our website.

The cancellation of exams was one of the more unprecedented steps that impacted the college and sector. End Point Assessments (EPA) for apprenticeships was not part of this, however, and are continuing to go ahead where adaptions are possible.

The cancellation of exams was one of the more unprecedented steps that impacted the college and sector.

HOW ARE APPRENTICESHIP ASSESSMENTS WORKING? Apprentices from vocational areas are starting to be assessed in much the same way albeit in smaller groups and with learning spaces adapted for social distancing. Apprentices in roles such as management and

business administration are completing the same assessments remotely to avoid any social interaction. National achievement rates published by the DfE earlier this year placed the College in the top ten of all college providers in the UK and outstanding achievement has continued with every management and business learner to have completed EPA remotely achieving the top distinction grade.

WERE YOU ABLE TO SUPPORT EMPLOYERS DURING LOCKDOWN? The team at Truro and Penwith College Business worked tirelessly throughout to provide advice and support. Our new Nursing Associate Apprenticeship in partnership with Royal Cornwall Hospitals NHS Trust (RCHT) started in June as planned and will see over 100 new Nursing Associate positions filled, offering a significant boost to nursing numbers on Cornwall’s frontline at a very significant time. “We were able to continue delivering training to the majority of furloughed apprentices and it was pleasing to see that a high number of our employers were able to continue operating in some form, keeping our apprentices at work or allowing them to continue their employment and training remotely. On behalf of the college and our apprentices I can’t thank our employers enough and it is evidence that Truro and Penwith College apprentices truly are with Cornwall’s top employers, who are committed to offering quality careers.”

30 | BUSINESS CORNWALL

EDUCATION

IT’S GREAT NEWS THAT APPRENTICES CONTINUED THEIR TRAINING, HAS THE PANDEMIC AFFECTED APPRENTICESHIPS AND T LEVELS THAT ARE DUE TO START IN SEPTEMBER? Apprenticeships and T Levels are a significant part of our new business support package that has been designed to help employers bounce back. The college is Cornwall’s only T Level provider from September 20 and I’m pleased to say all of our employers are still offering placements and the qualifications are going ahead as planned. The college believes apprenticeships will play a key role in Covid-19 recovery. Since lockdown we’ve seen a significant uplift in the creation of apprenticeship jobs and this is continuing.

“At university level, the college is offering a £1k non-means tested ‘technical bursary’ to support learners who planned to enter an apprenticeship or employment, but now find their opportunities limited. This will help us to safeguard a supply of quality skills that will be ready to step into apprenticeship positions when employers are able to recruit.

WHO CAN THE BUSINESS SUPPORT PACKAGE HELP AND WHAT DOES IT INVOLVE?

...this is expected to add tremendous value to businesses who are adapting operations amid Covid-19

Learners are still applying for apprenticeships and I would encourage any employer who may benefit from the added capacity and fresh energy to get in touch. The Government is funding 95% of training costs for SMEs and in July’s economic update the Chancellor announced a further bonus of up to £2k to businesses who employ apprentices before January 21. These initiatives also make apprenticeships a costeffective option to upskill current staff.

All businesses in Cornwall can benefit from the college’s business support package. Details can be found in our new Business Training Solutions brochure, which can be downloaded with supporting information online at truro-penwith. ac.uk/businesssupport

We have developed a new range of training to support the needs of local industry, while new funding will make sure businesses can access the training they need in the current climate. We’re also able to work with employers to address emerging training needs and can provide fully funded pilot training. Our business development advisors are working in partnership with employers to

FOCUS

help them navigate the range of training and funding available. Consultations can be arranged by calling 01872 242711 or emailing business@truro-penwith.ac.uk For example, we are able to offer up to 80% funded ILM courses in leadership, management and coaching for employers of key workers and have added remote learning options. The qualifications require managers and supervisors to deliver real workplace projects with the support of our industry experts and coaches, this is expected to add tremendous value to businesses who are adapting operations amid Covid-19. A new suite of digital marketing training has also been launched and due to the success of Connected College we are continuing to offer a selection of our courses remotely while continuing to support the introduction of new talent through apprenticeships, T Levels and traineeships.

For more information on the Business Support Package visit truro-penwith.ac.uk/businesssupport To arrange a consultation with an advisor: call 01872 242711 or email business@truro-penwith.ac.uk

BUSINESS CORNWALL | 31

EDUCATION

FOCUS

Back to

school

Headmaster Andy Johnson explains how Truro School is adapting to the pandemic for the start of the new term wider curiosity. We drew on and improved our digital resources, whilst making sure that learning and teaching online remained inclusive, including for those with individual needs or particularly complex circumstances. Personal and pastoral support, the promotion of wellbeing, and an active co-curriculum remained vital too. Creative opportunities were found to encourage peer to peer collaboration, constructive competition, and mutual support.

WHAT ARE THE PRIORITIES FOR THE 2020/21 SCHOOL YEAR? In the short term there continues to be much detailed planning in response to Covid-19. I thank all the staff, teaching and non-teaching, pupils, parents, and the wider Truro family for their support and patience in this regard. At the time of writing, we fully intend to begin next term with all pupils and staff safely on site, which will be a joy and a relief. We are also confident in our ability to move between on site and remote education should local or national circumstances dictate that we must.

More broadly, the school has priorities and a mission that go beyond coronavirus. In order to be the best we can be of ourselves, we always listen, reflect, learn and evolve. Truro School enters 2020/21 with a renewed commitment to being a beacon of inclusive excellence and progressive education.

For next year as a whole, the priority is to ensure that the key features of a top quality education are not eroded by the pandemic

For next year as a whole, the priority is to ensure that the key features of a top quality education are not eroded by the pandemic – the wellbeing of the children and adults, their access to and benefit from the highest quality education and co-education available, and an ongoing and absolute commitment to empowering young people’s futures.

32 | BUSINESS CORNWALL

WHAT IS THE BIGGEST CHALLENGE FOR THE SCHOOL AND FOR THE STUDENTS? This has been a very challenging time for all, but we are tremendously proud of how the pupils have responded. We are also pleased we have been able to support our educational family, and, just as importantly, the wider community.

Educationally, Truro School set up a programme of remote learning designed to be ambitious and sustainable. We continued to provide pupils with the opportunity to progress, as well as to explore exciting new ways of learning, and, crucially, to balance interactive screen time with independent academic and

This was challenging for students and staff alike, and everybody’s experiences have been their own, but it has also created opportunities. Some pupils and classes have progressed much further than expected, and the independent study skills and intellectual curiosity of many has been greatly enhanced. Staff have engaged with energy and open-mindedness. Many have developed new techniques and skills, and there is a real appetite to reflect on how educational provision at the school can be evolved and enhanced for the long term based on our experiences of the pandemic. As a business, the school and many of our families have faced real challenges too. We have to generate our own income and have temporarily lost much that we would normally have had from the sharing of our facilities with the wider community. At the same time, we have been determined to do all we can to support families in temporary or more longterm difficulty. Wherever we can, we have passed savings back to families, and we have been helped by the generosity and support of the Truro School Foundation, Truro School Association, Governors, parents and alumni. The pandemic will not threaten the School’s future and as we are discovering, enforced reflection and creativity will actually pave the way for us to thrive all the more in the future.

WHAT’S MOST IMPORTANT: ACHIEVEMENT OR ATTAINMENT, OR ARE THEY INTERCONNECTED? The distinction is a really important one. Attainment is an academic outcome

EDUCATION

measured against one’s peers as the point of comparison – exam results, in short. Achievement is the outcome of an individual’s own growth and development measured against their own ambitions and abilities, and it doesn’t need to be academic.

sporting, or otherwise. Valuing and nurturing individual and collective achievements across all school contexts with integrity and passion is what makes for a healthy, ambitious, and balanced education.

Attainment is what some choose to judge schools on because it is a readily available data set. It is important and it does matter, because the reality is that we live in a society where most pupils’ attainment will be central in defining the range of choices they have as they leave school. Being ambitious academically and caring about attainment is not something to be embarrassed about, therefore, but it is not the be all and end all of a healthy school with a genuine care and understanding of individual needs and talents. That is why achievement is, arguably, more important.

WHAT WAS THE SINGLE MOST IMPORTANT (LIFE) LESSON YOU TAKE FROM YOUR OWN SCHOOLDAYS AND HOW DO YOU TRANSLATE THAT INTO A RUNNING A SCHOOL?

A young person who achieves the best for themself will have strong attainment, but also much more. They will have the choices that attainment brings, but also the confidence, character and values to make those choices well, to the benefit of themselves and others, and in whatever field of interest or talent they choose to pursue – academic, creative,

Coeducational Sixth Form helped prepare me better for life after school, and I had the opportunity to travel, and to mix with children and adults from outside my own social and cultural reference points. I remain immensely grateful to my parents and grandparents for the sacrifices they made so this was possible. I was also acutely

I think that for me the most valuable life lesson from my own schooldays (which continue, of course!) is that ambition, excellence, and inclusion can and should all exist together in a happy school. I went to a school that encouraged me to explore my passions for sport, art and music, as well as to achieve what I wanted to academically.

FOCUS

aware of talented and creative peers who did not feel that their ambitions or interests were equally valued or realised, and that left a powerful mark on me.

The pandemic will not threaten the School’s future and as we are discovering, enforced reflection and creativity will actually pave the way for us to thrive all the more in the future

Truro School Visit our website to view our

VIRTUAL TOUR truroschool.com/admissions to be, rather than to seem to be

NURSERY | PREP | SENIOR | SIXTH BUSINESS CORNWALL | 33

developing Leaders Up to 80% funded ILM courses in Leadership, Management and Coaching

Funding available to support SMEs and employers of key workers Start dates from September 2020

Find out more: Visit: www.truro-penwith.ac.uk/fundingleaders Call: 01872 242711 Email: business@truro-penwith.ac.uk

Truro & Penwith College Business

www.truro-penwith.ac.uk

EDUCATION &

SPONSORED BY

TRAINING

PAINTING THE UNI RED Falmouth University’s Academy of Music and Theatre Arts (AMATA) was illuminated red in support of the live events industry that has been devastated by Covid-19. The Red Alert Day of Action for the #WeMakeEvents campaign called for the Government to introduce additional measures now to save the one million people employed in the industry, worth more than £100 billion. James Randell, front of house manager for AMATA, commented: “The events industry is facing an unprecedented challenge due to the Coronavirus pandemic after the whole summer season was cancelled. The impact of this cancellation is felt across the whole performing arts and events industry from top to bottom, including the supply chain. “The campaign calls for additional Government support to avoid a triple winter season, which will see many businesses and self-employed in the whole sector go out of business completely.”

DESIGN STUDENTS ON POINT

FOR SHE’S A JOLLY GOOD FELLOW

Sixteen students past and present from Falmouth University’s Graphic Design, Advertising and Illustration course were named as ones to watch at the annual Design and Advertising Awards (D&AD) New Blood Awards 2020.

Tracy Pritchard, director of Falmouth University’s Fashion and Textile Institute, has been named principal fellow of the Higher Education Academy (HEA); a first for the university. Pritchard joins an elite group of 1,000 HEA Principal Fellows worldwide, recognised for their long-term commitment to professional development and best practice in teaching, learning and the student experience. She said: “I am personally delighted to receive the recognition for my achievements of over 20 years in higher education and my contribution to learning and teaching along with the acknowledgement of my management and leadership.”

Awards in the competition are graded by type of pencil from a wood pencil to a black pencil. Each winner proudly receives a Pencil shaped coloured trophy. This year, Falmouth students were also awarded three Yellow Pencils, three Graphite Pencils and two Wood pencils. Prior to becoming director of the Fashion and Textile Institute at Falmouth University, Tracy Pritchard was an award-winning designer for high street outlets including Marks and Spencer, Next and House of Fraser. She also worked as a fashion consultant and writer for newspapers, magazines and TV.

Head of graphic design, Bryan Clark, said: “The D&AD Awards play a huge part in helping graduates navigate their way into the world’s top creative jobs and their role in championing the very best in this challenging year has been even more important. We’re delighted with our student’s achievements this year, which set them up brilliantly for an exciting future in a creative career.” BUSINESS CORNWALL | 35

CREATIVE

AND DIGITAL

SPONSORED BY

www.digitalpeninsula.org

TIME TO GO FASTER The Broadband Upgrade Fund campaign launched in Cornwall last month. The Government is offering rural residents up to £1.5k and small to medium sized businesses up to £3.5k to upgrade to gigabit broadband, which is capable of download speeds of 1 gigabit (1000 megabits) per second and is much faster than the current speeds experienced across Cornwall.

Upgrading to gigabit broadband will mean homes and businesses in Cornwall will have the world-class, future-proof and reliable Internet connections they need to keep pace with new advances in technology, and the jobs and growth that comes with it, in the decades to come. Encouraging communities to come together, residents and businesses can combine their interest to increase the overall fund the community is entitled to. Registration is open until September 30.

HALO REACHES FUNDING FOR THE STARS HITS RIGHT NOTE Halo PR & Communications has been awarded a two-year contract to deliver PR and social media services to AeroSpace Cornwall following a competitive tender process.

AeroSpace Cornwall offers technical and commercial support for businesses who are developing new products, services and technologies which will add value to the space and aerospace sectors. Working in collaboration with design studio Design 79, Halo will be responsible for promoting the success stories and the benefits of accessing funding and support from AeroSpace Cornwall. The contract follows on from a number of wins in the technology sector for Halo. In 2018 it worked with Gravity Industries, a business responsible for the world’s first ever Jet Suit - seeing over 700 million views on associated content. More recently, the company has engaged with clients such as Razor, a Sheffieldbased technology consultancy making advances in digital transformation in British manufacturing. It also has had great success working with fledgling businesses in the space economy such as Space Forge, a young and ambitious company based in Bristol designing reusable manufacturing satellites, and earlier this year won a contract to manage comms for Spaceport Cornwall. Halo’s CEO and founder, Jess Ratty, said: “We see the opportunity to work with AeroSpace Cornwall as an incredible chance to help to build and inspire the next generation of a broad range of businesses who are looking to increase their capability in the space and aerospace sectors.” 36 | BUSINESS CORNWALL

Penryn-based independent publishing company, Red Planet Publishing Limited, has received an £80k loan from the Cornwall and Isles of Scilly Investment Fund (CIOSIF). Red Planet Publishing was established in 2013 by founder Mark Neeter, who brings to the table a wealth of experience gained from BBC local radio as well as national stations including Radio Caroline and behind the scenes at Capital Radio, before turning his love of music to journalism. The result is an eclectic mix of informative music books encompassing a broad collection ranging from Ska, Mod and Punk through to Bob Dylan, The Smiths and Queen.

the funds are to allow us to develop direct sales with our audience through a new website supported by social media. “We aim to grow as an independent business and provide employment in Cornwall and support the local economy.”

Neeter commented: “Red Planet specialises in books about music. We operate in a competitive market and sell through stores across the UK, Europe and the USA. Part of

The deal was handled by SWIG Finance which is working with fund managers The FSE Group to deliver the small business loans part of the fund.

A HOPE HAT-TRICK

rewilding retreats, and sustainable viticulture training specialists, Wild Wine School. Launched during lockdown, the new agency has also been retained by eco-conscious bag brand, Millican.

Travel and lifestyle communications agency, Hope Yard PR, has won a hat trick of new contracts all within the first three months of launching. The latest clients to sign up to work with the Hope Yard PR trio of Hayley Newnham, Lucy Jenner-Brown and Samantha Kirton include the Fir Hill Estate glamping, Thera-Sea

“We’re passionate about where we live and love promoting sustainable Cornish brands through our national press contacts,” said Kirton. “Each of these three clients has a fascinating story to share and we’re excited to be putting them in the spotlight.”

NEWS

SPONSORED BY

#FSBCONNECT

FSB CALLS FOR PRO-BUSINESS BUDGET As the UK’s worst-ever recession hits, the FSB is pressing the Chancellor for the most pro-business, pro-self-employed Budget ever this autumn. The FSB would like to see measures such as a cut to employer national insurance contributions, backing for the New Enterprise Allowance and Start-Up Loans Programme, ambitious investment in our infrastructure – not least broadband (it’s good in Cornwall but not perfect) and transport networks, taking more small firms out of the regressive business rates system and ending a worsening £23 billion late payment crisis are all a must. More than a million firms have now taken on bounce back loans to see them through this incredibly challenging period. They now need a guarantee that they won’t have to start paying them back until they’re making a profit. Such an assurance will encourage them to invest and expand today, rather than hoarding

cash for fear of what’s coming down the line. In a short time the UK will transition to its new relationship with the EU but we still have no idea what that relationship will look like. EU-UK talks need to see negotiators on all side accelerating their efforts to agree a probusiness deal in acknowledgement of the fact that time is of the essence. It has been encouraging to see UK efforts to strike new trade deals. It’s now even more critical that any new UK free trade agreements include a dedicated small business chapter spelling out exactly how each deal will protect and promote the interests of the UK’s 5.8 million small businesses. Our economy will depend on joined up programmes, robust negotiation and inspired support in the next budget and FSB will be sharing evidence from our members to press for exactly what is needed.

STAY SAFE FROM CYBER ATTACKS details, financial records and any sensitive documents, should be backed up safely and regularly.

2 Use strong and unique passwords Enable password protection on all devices and choose a unique password for your accounts.

During the past several months, we’ve seen people coming together to support each other during difficult times. Sadly, not everyone is as altruistic: cybercrimes such as online scams, malware and phishing continue to be a threat. It’s all too common for larger companies to experience data breaches, but smaller businesses can be targets, too. FSB research shows that smaller businesses are victim to seven million cybercrimes every year – 19,000 a day. The average incident costs a small business £3k in damages, and it can take days to get back up and running. Here are five steps you can take to protect your business: 1 Back up all your data All important business data, like customer

3 Keep all computers updated Keep IT equipment up to date with the latest software, including computers, servers, smartphones and tablets. 4 Install antivirus software and firewalls Ensure all PCs have antivirus and antimalware software installed, and that it’s always on. You can also install firewalls on your internet router and servers. 5 Educate employees on best practices Train employees about how they can keep business data secure. Make sure they know how to spot the signs of a fraudulent email to avoid phishing. FSB Cyber Protection is free for members. For more information, call the FSB customer service team on 0808 2020 888 quoting ‘FSB Cyber Protection’ or visit fsb.org.uk/benefits

FSB Offer for Business Cornwall Magazine Readers at www.fsb.org.uk/join If you want to join FSB after reading this page then please quote BCM30 when you join and save £30!

£23BN LATE PAYMENT CRISIS The majority of small businesses (62%) have been subject to late or frozen payments in the wake of the Covid-19 outbreak, according to FSB’s latest study of more than 4,000 firms. Its recent report, ‘Late Again: how the coronavirus pandemic is impacting payment terms for small firms’, shows that only one in ten (10%) small businesses have agreed changes to payment terms with clients, meaning the vast majority of this fresh wave of poor practice has not been formally signed-off by creditors or debtors. The study shows that – despite concerted efforts by Government at all levels to improve procurement practices, efforts that were accelerated following Carillion’s collapse – there is no discernible difference in late payment activity between public and private sector supply chains. Around two thirds (65%) of small businesses that supply to other businesses have suffered late or frozen payments. An almost identical number (63%) of firms in public sector supply chains have experienced the same treatment. Small firms in the wholesale (71%), legal and accounting (62%) and advertising and marketing sectors (62%) have been hardest hit in this regard. Pay.UK data shows that the sum of late payments due across the country rose 80% to £23.4 billion at the end of last year. FSB national chairman Mike Cherry said: “Before the COVID-19 outbreak struck, many small firms were already under immense financial pressure because of late payments. “With cashflow drying up as the lockdown took hold, this situation has worsened. Sadly, some unscrupulous corporations are trying to inoculate themselves from the impacts of Covid-19 by withholding payments, or even freezing them, at the expense of small businesses. BUSINESS CORNWALL | 37

FOOD

& DRINK

ORIGIN JOINS B-CORP CREW

CORNISH CHEESE IN CANADA Cathedral City cheese has been launched in Canada. The brand, which is manufactured at the Davidstow creamery using milk from 330 local farms, is now on sale in more than 500 stores across Canada.

Origin Coffee has joined the growing number of Cornish companies to secure certified B Corporation status. Founded over 15 years ago, Helston-based Origin has grown to become one of the UK’s leading speciality coffee roasters and also has six of its own coffee shops in Cornwall and London.

A MATCH MADE IN HEAVEN Colwith Farm Distillery has launched a new vodka, pairing Cornish potatoes with berries from Cornwall’s first sea buck plantation, whose juice is known for its vivid orange hue and nutritional properties.

He said: “The Origin team have always strived to demonstrate full transparency in our supply chain, and until now our valued customers have trusted that when we’ve said something regarding our social and environmental performance, we’ve meant it.

By joining the global B Corp community, Origin becomes part of a new movement of businesses, agreeing to use what they do as a force for good. There’s currently 2,500 certified B Corporations in more than 50 countries, including a growing Cornish cohort that includes the likes of Leap Design, Finisterre and, most recently, construction consultancy, WWA.

Seaberry Vodka takes Aval Dor Vodka – recently named one of the best vodkas in the world with a Double Gold accolade at the San Francisco World Spirits Competition – as the base, paired with the first harvest of berries from Cornish Seaberry Co in neighbouring Lostwithiel. Dubbed the “holy fruit of the Himalayas” and “liquid gold”, sea buckthorn has been

‘A RUM FOR GIN LOVERS’

A new Cornish distillery is targeting the growing rum market.

While the gin boom has been in full swing for a couple of years, many observers believe rum is set to enjoy a similar surge. Penryn Spirits was founded by Pete Mack and Willoughby Werner, who have harboured dreams of running a distillery together since they met at Britannia Royal Navy College. And they have brought out BORA Botanical Rum, which they describe as a “Caribbean 38 | BUSINESS CORNWALL

“As the global appetite for UK food and drink continues to grow, the Government is committed to working with exporters to help them tap into new markets and open up opportunities around the world.”

Adam Braithwaite, commercial director of parent company Saputo Dairy UK, said: “Cathedral City is bought and loved by more than half of all UK households and I’m delighted that our prized cheddar can now be enjoyed in Canada too. Our British team has worked closely with our Canadian colleagues to bring this successfully to market.”

Owner and founder, Tom Sobey, says behaving in a sustainable way has always underpinned Origin’s coffee sourcing programme and informed the decisions they’ve made throughout the business.

“B Corp certification is verification of all our hard work, and it’s one of my proudest achievements as a business owner.”

George Eustice, Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, added: “This is fantastic news for Cornwall and the south west region, helping over 330 local farms showcase their high-quality produce abroad.

used for centuries to protect against various ailments including diabetes, stomach ulcers and skin damage. It has been a long journey towards the distillery’s newest drink…agronomist Seth Pascoe first encountered sea buckthorn on a Himalaya trek in Nepal. He returned home to Cornwall and planted 150 trees. After a four-year wait and a lengthy trial, Steve Dustow, Colwith Farm Distillery’s owner, is excited to be bringing Seaberry Vodka to market. “When we learnt that Seth was planting Cornwall’s first sea buck plantation, we knew we had to trial the berries in our spirits,” he said. “It takes four to five years for the plants to bear fruit, but we were willing to wait. The timing couldn’t be better, the first harvest coinciding with Aval Dor winning Double Gold. We’ve found a match made in heaven.” Spirit with Cornish Spice” and “a refreshingly different aperitif” designed to be enjoyed with tonic. Named after the Cornish word for dawn, Penryn Spirits says BORA heralds a new beginning for rum, reinventing traditional spiced rum using British botanicals. Mack said: “We are very excited to launch BORA Botanical Rum this Summer. Following nearly a decade of dreaming, two years of experimentation and refinement, and plenty of setbacks along the way, we’ve created what we believe is a truly unique spirit.”

www.visitcornwall.com

NEWS

SPONSORED BY

SAILING SCHOOL FLIES THE FLAG Mylor Sailing and Powerboat School was shortlisted for the VisitEngland Awards for Excellence 2020. Applications were put forward for national judging from businesses across England including hotels, self-catering accommodation providers, B&Bs, glamping

operators, attractions, restaurants, pubs, museums, and conference centres. Mylor Sailing and Powerboat School, which was listed in the Accessible and Inclusive Tourism category, was the sole Cornish representative among 53 finalists across 15 categories, picking up a Bronze award. VisitEngland chief executive, Sally Balcombe, said: “These awards celebrate businesses and individuals in tourism across England who have exceeded expectations and delivered excellence during the last 18 months and it was fantastic to see such an outstanding list of finalists.”

One of Cornwall’s most historic sites, Bodmin Jail, is set to open next month.

TOURISM

GO TO JAIL

The unveiling of the £8.5 million redevelopment on October 1 is being proclaimed as the biggest attraction opening for 2020 in the south west. Using state-of-the-art technology and the latest theatrical effects, the Dark Walk - a major addition to the attraction and the first of its kind in the region – will treat visitors to a “truly immersive and interactive discovery of Cornwall’s most haunting histories”.

IN THE DOGHOUSE The inaugural British Airways flight from London Heathrow landed at Cornwall Airport Newquay on July 24 Passengers stepping off the plane were welcomed to the Duchy with a special Cornish gift. The route began initially as three times per week in July increasing up to a daily frequency this month. Cornwall has been identified as the UK’s most dog-friendly holiday destinations. Dog Friendly Retreats has created a map to show the country’s top destinations, ranked by the number of self-catering properties that welcome canine visitors. Cornwall comes out on top with 3,066 holiday homes available for dog owners and their four-legged friends. Next up is Devon and Yorkshire with 2,641 and 2,306 properties for dog-loving holidaymakers respectively. Website founder Josh Williams commented: “We’ve had great fun creating this map. Hopefully dog owners will find this interesting and use it to get ideas for their next holiday adventure.” Devoran-based Dog Friendly Retreats has the UK’s largest online collection of dog-friendly holiday properties. It lists over 24,000 pet-friendly cottages and holiday homes all over the country from the tip of Scotland to the toe of Cornwall.

Meanwhile, the Unite union has called upon the Government to approve a two-year The ‘ultimate’ drive-in cinema experience from chef Paul Ainsworth proved a great success last month. Following the success of the Drive & Dine Theatre events held across the UK in collaboration with Chef Tom Kerridge

BA BACK IN CORNWALL

£5 million bridging loan for the airport, to help it manage through the pandemic.

Unite regional officer, Deborah Hopkins, said: “The return of flights from Newquay to Heathrow is a step in the right direction and a much-needed shot in the arm for Cornwall’s domestic and international connectivity following the lockdown.” earlier in the summer, Ainsworth and his team brought a big screen concept to north Cornwall for a two-week stint at the Royal Cornwall Showground. He said: “Locals from all over Cornwall are travelling to watch a film and enjoy some great food with us, and it has clearly been an added bonus for any holiday makers down here. It has been a challenging start to the year and I know that Drive & Dine will bring some fun to those living or holidaying in Cornwall.”

AINSWORTH DRIVE-IN SUCCESS BUSINESS CORNWALL | 39

PEOPLE

ON THE MOVE

NEW CHAIR Cornwall Housing has welcomed a new chairman to the board. Mike Hanrahan has extensive experience in the housing industry, working with local

authorities, housing associations, and education. Since the early 1990’s, Hanrahan has held executive posts in a number of regional and national housing associations, most recently the Scottish Housing Regulator. For ten years he was chief executive of Teign Housing, a stock transfer housing association in Devon.

MD Nick Cross said: “This is a very welcome appointment. We know that Mike has always put quality service delivery and meaningful tenant involvement at the top of his agenda. His presence will bring significant momentum to the journey our board is steering through, and we will benefit from his expertise.”

NUTTY DUCK BACON JOINT

TWO IN, ONE OUT

A new chef is at the helm of the Nutty Duck, the popular seaside restaurant in Mevagissey.

SWIG Finance has welcomed two new recruits to its growing team, at the same time as saying farewell to one of the company’s longeststanding employees who has retired.

Originally from Surrey but resident in Cornwall for the past 20 years, Nigel Bacon joins the team with a wealth of experience. Inspired by his family’s love of food, he graduated from catering college at 17 and has been developing creative dishes ever since.

Nicki Kimberley, who joins from HBC, has started as startup loans officer, while Mike Wall has succeeded Brian Steer in the role of portfolio manager. Wall is already well- known to SWIG, having previously worked at the company as business manager until last year.

“We’re delighted to have Nigel with us,” said Nutty Duck owner John Gladwin. “He’s updated our menu and created some wonderful dishes which we’re excited to be serving to both our local residents and visitors.”

Steer’s retirement after 14 years’ service is well-deserved, coming after a particularly challenging time due to the Covid-19 pandemic. He has played a pivotal role in supporting SWIG’s customers and overseeing the stability of the company’s loan book over the last few months.

Bacon, who has worked as a senior sous chef within AA Rosette Awardwinning hotels, added: “The Nutty Duck is known for elegant, refined dishes which prioritise the amazing local produce available here - a tradition I’m proud to be continuing.”

MD John Peters said “I’d like to thank Brian for his hard work over the years. He is a valued team member who will be missed by all at SWIG.”

FRESH ASPECTS

Following months of planning, building and a delay due to Covid-19, holiday lettings agency Aspects Holidays has moved into its new head office on the Hayle Business Park. Commercial director, Mandy Spencer, said: “It’s been well over ten years since we set up our head office in Hayle, after we outgrew our Wharf office in St Ives. Our ever-growing team along with more guests arriving with us every week, meant that it was time for another move, but this time only 150 yards away. “Our brand new purpose-built office gives us so much more space, for the Aspects team, as well as our visitors and owners. We have our own car park, a beautiful reception area for our guests when arriving on holiday, and a light and spacious office for our amazing team to work from, so we are all really excited to be here.”

40 | BUSINESS CORNWALL

CHAMBER

SPONSORED BY

cornwallchamber.co.uk

MEMBER SHOWCASE ATELIER; HELEN BROOKS Atelier; helenbrooks celebrates its first year in business this month. In spite of the challenges faced by startup businesses in 2020, it’s been a transformative year for Helen Brooks, heading up Cornwall’s only purely female-led architecture practice. Starting out on your own is always a nerve-wracking prospect when you have financial commitments and a family. But after 15 years working for others as a qualified architect, Brooks wanted to offer clients a more personal design experience. “Of course, it’s wonderful to design a beautiful new space, but you also need to understand how people will use that space in their everyday lives,” she explained. “I love exploring how my clients might interact with their new surroundings - for me, the greatest joy of architecture lies in bringing those diverse possibilities to life. “Too often, architecture focuses on the architect’s glory instead of the customer’s needs. At Atelier; helenbrooks, I’m able to focus more on listening to what my clients need, and facilitating their vision in ways that will truly enhance their lives. Connect with people, and great architecture will follow.” Launching Atelier; helenbrooks, the biggest fear was whether, as a standalone architect’s practice, she could win the trust of the local construction community. But even when Covid-19 hit, she learnt that her business was too new to receive any Government support, and she had to run complex site projects under changing lockdown rules, her focus on good communication paid off. She added: “Over the past year, I’ve loved being able to share my expertise - I’ve even been able to offer work experience to a trainee architect, reminding me of what it was like to be at the very start of my career and how far I’ve come. Surviving and celebrating this first year as a woman in Cornwall running my own business has been an incredibly empowering experience. My husband and daughter have been so supportive and encouraging throughout. This year has shown me that I can achieve my dreams, while helping others to achieve theirs.” www.atelierhelenbrooks.co.uk

NEWS

CORNWALL FESTIVAL OF BUSINESS 2020 The Cornwall Festival of Business took off in 2019, with over 60 events taking place across Duchy in just one week; it was an instant success. This year, all organisations that are based or do business in Cornwall are encouraged to plan, host, and develop valuable business relationships between November 2-6. Centrepiecing the week will be the Cornwall Business Fair, the first virtual fair of its kind in the south west. Cornwall Chamber is excited to showcase the state of the art, innovative software that it will be using to host the fair - keep an eye out on the chamber’s social media for more information. Events in the festival can be any shape or size, from masterclasses and workshops to conferences and open days, the main criterion is that the event must benefit people or businesses in Cornwall by offering other companies the chance to learn, develop, or experience new aspects of business.

Why should your business get involved in Cornwall Festival of Business? • Hosting an event will not only position your business in front of the chamber’s extensive network, you will be opening opportunities to meet and connect with potential customers and new supply chains • There is no cost to taking part in the Festival of Business, and by getting involved you will receive free promotional support from Cornwall Chamber • You have the opportunity to choose whether you host your event virtually or face to face as Covid-19 restrictions start to ease • Be a part of the on-going recovery and drive of positivity for the county The process of getting involved is simple; create your event, upload it to the Festival of Business event calendar, gain free promotional support from Cornwall Chamber, and then host your event opening endless opportunities for your business to grow, connect and prosper. Find out more and get involved: www.cornwallchamber.co.uk/ festival-of-business

MADE IN CORNWALL Cornwall is a special place with a distinct culture, a rich creative heritage, outstanding natural beauty, and a well-deserved reputation for the production of quality goods. Our vibrant business community is home to makers of everything from unique pieces of art, natural beauty and speciality food and drink producers as well as specialist technical products and services. All are closely tied to Cornwall, whether through creative inspiration, supply chain sourcing or both. These independent makers and their products need protecting, which is exactly what the Made in Cornwall scheme was designed to do. The scheme assists producers to promote and verify the authenticity of their Cornish products, giving their customers and clients a credibility and guarantee: if your purchase

bears this logo, the maker has been through rigorous inspection to confirm that the product was made in the Duchy itself, rather than imported and simply finished in-county. Businesses wishing to join are assessed by a Trading Standards officer to ensure their process and their product meets the minimum criteria. The scheme has a distinctive engine house logo, so keep your eyes peeled and help support these local Cornish businesses by buying local. It currently has 220 members of all shapes and sizes and across a broad range of sectors. For more details visit: madeincornwall.org.uk or email Mirren@madeincornwall.org.uk

Email: hello@corwallchamber.co.uk Call: 01209 216006 Online: www.cornwallchamber.co.uk BUSINESS CORNWALL | 41

ADVERTORIAL

POSITIVE FROM THE

outset

As lockdown restrictions ease around the UK and across most industry sectors, there’s no denying the massive impact the coronavirus pandemic has had on businesses and industries, both positively and negatively. Sharon said: “I realised many of our sellers just couldn’t continue supplying and The business start-up experts supporting us during lockdown, but I knew I Despite a range of Government grants and had to do something to keep us all going. support initiatives designed to help UK “I always thought we should expand the businesses survive, sadly there are some that, business, and this gave us the perfect for various reasons, have been forced to close opportunity. We’re now shipping orders all Attending their doors and cease trading altogether. over the UK, from Dundee to Penzance, Outset’s startAt Outset Cornwall however, some clients which kept our business alive until we could have managed to keep their businesses reopen and supported up course gave a number of our sellers moving forwards, spotting gaps in the market the process.” meinclear focus and and cleverly adapting their products or selling While established businesses adapted and direction. methods to take their businesses in a new moved forwards, many others who were Krissie Colton direction. justMe beginning their start-up journey decided Clothing Take Sharon Holmes, founder of Make to hold off launching their business in such Industries in Penzance, who joined the Outset circumstances. programme in 2017. As a bricks-and-mortar Not the case for Outset client Cassie Davey. business housing the products of up to 50 Despite having to put her plans on hold sellers at a time, temporarily shutting the initially, Cassie went on to complete the shop during lockdown affected not only their Outset programme online, attend additional incomes but Sharon’s as well. workshops and even register her company, Realising that many local businesses were Tall and Beautiful Clothing Ltd, with HMRC. struggling to remain active, Sharon set up a Cassie says: “I didn’t expect to get so far so COVID-19 shop as part of her main website, quickly, and now I’ve registered my company, selling store cupboard essentials from her launched my website and started creating regular local suppliers such as Tregothnan, awareness using social media. Furniss and Cornish Coffee. She also introduced their own-produced items including “Outset’s support has been amazing; thanks chilli oil, fudge and marmalade, plus reto one of their brilliant advisors I even had a packaged high-quality flour and baking powder ‘lightbulb’ moment and set up a Crowdfunder which had been in extremely short supply. campaign to raise the money to fund producing my garments, ready for my official launch next spring.”

Focus

Start

Funded by the European Regional Development Fund, Outset’s award-winning programme has helped over 1,000 individuals start successful businesses throughout Cornwall in the last ten years, so the right support is something they have in spades.

Want to be your own boss?

Now with an online training room dedicated to delivering the entirety of the programme, plus #BeOutsetReady a comprehensive e-learning platform, clients can still access Outset’s extensive start-up offer from the safety of their own home.

Kate Perkin, Outset Cornwall’s Programme Director, said: “As a result of COVID-19, the Outset team had to work as quickly as possible to move everything online, so that we could keep supporting our existing clients, and help the many who have been approaching us. “We’ve been amazed and immensely proud of how resilient and positive our clients have remained throughout all this, by continuing to look for and seize opportunities that have helped grow, strengthen and increase the sustainability of their businesses.

Run

Grow

Whatever your situation, we can “Moving everything online has meant we can support even more individuals to overcome In fact, Cassie’s Crowdfunder was so their barriers, giving them to the confidence successful, she exceeded her initial target of help get you where you want be and ability to move forwards and realise their £8k and achieved her stretch target of £10k, raising more than she needed and proving that starting a successful business during a crisis is entirely possible.

ambition of starting their own business or becoming self-employed.”

is they couldn’t have achieved their success without having the right support.

its award-winning programme, visit www.outset.org/cornwall

Call 01209 311063 or visit www.outset.org/cornwall toTo find start your journey One thing Outset’s clients would all agree on out more about Outset Cornwall and Funded by

42 | BUSINESS CORNWALL

LAND ROVER DEFENDER

LAND ROVER

TEST DRIVE

DEFENDER WORDS BY MORVETH WARD

This month, courtesy of Carrs Jaguar Land Rover, Morveth Ward takes on what must be one the most recognisable vehicles on the planet, the Land Rover Defender

BUSINESS CORNWALL | 43

TEST DRIVE

LAND ROVER DEFENDER

Reviewing the Defender is something I’ve been very much looking forward to. It was one of the most highly anticipated vehicles of this century and it certainly was for me, especially being an owner of an ‘old’ Defender, which coincidentally came from Carrs (Riders as it was then) new.

people recognise over and above any other model. If Land Rover got the new Defender wrong, it would bring a blip in the iconic reign that could have proved disastrous for not only the Defender, but the entire range. It was the model that gave Land Rover the reputation for producing hardy all-terrain vehicles – this and its iconic shape and character is why people love it.

It’s still more than just a vehicle and will no doubt remain an institution

Without being too smart about it, the new Defender was what I was expecting. I was confident that Land Rover would produce a great vehicle here, with there being so much at stake. From the first Series One in 1948 to the last of the old-style Defender’s in January 2016, this has been the model that has defined the brand, the one

44 | BUSINESS CORNWALL

However, the replacement didn’t mean making something as utilitarian as the old one. To me I was under no illusion that true utilitarian bias, which dictated a basic and rugged feel that bounces you along country lanes with the refinement and luxury of a garden shed, was now a thing of the past – things have moved on and there is no need for that level of compromise anymore. However, the

bi-product of the nature of the predecessor is that it achieved ‘character’ that made it unique. Recreating this was always going to be one of the toughest challenges for Land Rover – and doing so whilst leading the way with a more modern vehicle that understands the present market demands – the question then, is whether Land Rover has succeeded in this?l I think so. The design is of course subjective, but I think it has unmistakable reminders of its heritage in the aesthetic: the true boxy-ness has been blunted but is still present, but features such as the side-hinged tailgate, lights, alpine roof windows etc all hark back to the original. The interior was always a laughing point on the old Landy, being an afterthought, thrown together and very basic (but it did serve its purpose, just). The new Defender is incomparable in this department, being luxury, spacious and loaded with tech – there are just a couple stylised hints

LAND ROVER DEFENDER

of the old, including exposed bolt heads in places and the long bar across the top of the dash. It does have some of the practicalities, too, with rubber matting throughout, so you can still hose it out. Land Rover has tried to strike a balance between modern and original and whilst the bias is towards the former, I think they’ve achieved this. It looks striking and individual. I was surprised at how many people were turning their heads to have a look and questioning me about it. The next challenge was making sure that it lives up to the do anything, go anywhere reputation. Afterall this was what the original Land Rover was built for – a versatile allterrain vehicle. Fundamentally it’s a very different machine, but with the same brief in mind. Whilst the old Defender has a mechano-like set-up with a ladder chassis and separate body, the new Defender has an aluminium monocoque arrangement. Crucially, it is truly capable off road and comes with features such as mechanical locking diffs as well as an abundance of electronic aids, making for exceptional grip. Then there is the ground clearance which can be raised (on air suspension models) to 11.5 inches and has the wheels on the corners, meaning you can take very steep ascents/ descents. Oh, and it’s good at wading through water, too. The on-board technology further aids with its off-road ability, with settings to optimise the vehicle according to the terrain and underside cameras so you can see what is beneath you. So, for off-road capability it is a big tick! And here’s the amazing thing, you now have the best of both worlds, as it drives incredibly well on the road (something that couldn’t be said before): smooth, refined and solid feeling, with a great choice of engines (and a hybrid on its way). I think it drives very similar to a Discovery.

TEST DRIVE

still well and truly alive in a vehicle that is now highly capable off road, but also equally on road. It’s still more than just a vehicle and will no doubt remain an institution. Prices start from around £45k, though the one as tested here is a First Edition 110 with many extras and costs around £65k. Extras on the model tested, include the explorer pack, which is the roof rack, snorkel and side panier, amongst other things. The 110 (long wheel base) is out now and the 90 (short wheel base) is available to order. Carrs, Scorrier have demonstrators in, so you know where to go if you think the Defender is for you. Afterall they are the perfect versatile vehicle for Cornwall and look epic!

Contact: Carrs Land Rover Cornwall Business Park West, Scorrier | 01872 305986

The model that gave Land Rover the reputation for producing hardy all-terrain vehicles

The only thing that has been lost, which is quite important to some, is that the new Defender is no longer the easy-to-work on, fix it yourself puzzle of pieces that it used to be. The reason there are such a high number of Land Rover series / Defenders still on the road is because they are cheap and easy to fix. If you knock a wing mirror off in the woods, you buy a new one for £20 and fit it yourself. Even when your Landy gets to 30 years old and the chassis has rusted through – you buy another chassis and replace it. This is why the old Land Rover’s will still outlive the new ones. However, the old Defender will continue to serve that purpose, whilst the new one is perfect for the huge market of adventurers and outdoors loving people, that want something fun, loveable and uncompromising. In summary, whilst wildly different from the predecessor, the essence of the Defender is BUSINESS CORNWALL | 45

OPINION

JUST A THOUGHT

Despite the devastation wrought, Covid-19 also brings about economic opportunity, says Cornwall & Isles of Scilly LEP chief executive, Glenn Caplin-Grey

ROAD TO RECOVERY money during spring and summer and may not survive the winter.

The coronavirus pandemic continues to have profound and unpredictable impacts on the economy of Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly. Between March and June this year, the number of Universal Credit claimants almost doubled to more than 48,000, with hotspots in tourism-dependant areas like Newquay among the worst affected. Cornwall and Scilly as a whole have felt some of the greatest economic impacts in the UK with key sectors like tourism, food and drink, retail, construction and arts and culture having some of the highest levels of furloughed workers. The crisis has accelerated the trends we have seen over the past decade with online retail presenting significant challenges to the vitality of high streets. Changes to policy will need to accelerate just as fast to meet the challenge. By the end of June there were almost 80,000 people on the Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme across Cornwall and Scilly, which is 35% of the eligible workforce and one of the highest take-up rates in the UK. It’s the same picture for Cornwall’s 40,000 self-employed people, who make up significantly more of the local workforce (23%) than nationally (16%). Over 30,000, or 75% of those eligible, claimed £85 million of support grants as of June 30. At the time of writing, both these schemes are due to come to an end in October, bringing risks to employment and businesses across Cornwall and Scilly, especially those that have been unable to make sufficient 46 | BUSINESS CORNWALL

It’s clear the structure of our local economy means Covid-19 is having a bigger impact on Cornwall and Scilly than perhaps any other part of the UK. In employment terms, this means the region is carrying a lot of risk into the Autumn despite the very welcome Government support to business. For the LEP our focus has been on tackling the immediacy of the crisis while looking towards recovery and beyond. By working with business we have provided Government with crucial real-time data about coronavirus impacts to help shape policy, and have lobbied for more flexibility from the support schemes on offer, including part-timing working while on furlough and discretionary business grants.

clear that the impacts of coronavirus differ from region to region, and what’s required is a differentiated regional response to aid recovery. Covid-19 has been a grim harbinger of some of the pressures we might see as a result of Brexit, depending on the shape of the final deal with the EU, such as labour shortages and export restrictions. But it has also shown that we can adapt, innovate and do things differently, and embrace the value of economic localism versus globalisation. That’s why the Government’s imminent recovery and devolution White Paper will be vital to shaping continued investment at a local level, especially when it comes to tackling the long-term threat of climate change.

Changes to policy will need to accelerate just as fast to meet the challenge

We have provided direct assistance to Visit Cornwall and the Cornwall Chamber of Commerce so they can continue to support local businesses, and have put more resources into the Cornwall and Isles of Scilly Growth Hub to ensure it can respond to business needs, including managing the £1 million tourism kick-start fund.

And we will continue to make the case for policies tailored to Cornwall and Scilly. It’s

It’s also an economic opportunity, which is why the LEP’s Local Industrial Strategy has a ‘green recovery’ at its heart, and why we have chosen to invest a large proportion of our recent £14.3 million Getting Building Fund award in projects that support clean energy, geo-resources including lithium extraction, and a Housing Retrofit Programme which will deliver social benefits as well as jobs in the supply chain.

The coronavirus pandemic will end, and the economy of Cornwall and Scilly will recover. How fast will depend in part on the Government’s willingness to use its levelling up agenda to empower regions to invest in the businesses, skills and infrastructure that will drive future innovation and growth.

www.cioslep.co.uk

CORNWALL

SPONSORED BY

CONNECTED

BY ROYAL COMMAND

The Duchess of Cornwall visited Cornwall Air Ambulance headquarters to officially name the new helicopter. The AW169 helicopter, which went into service on April 1, is named ‘The Duchess of Cornwall’, after the charity’s patron.

CORNWALL AIR AMBULANCE CEO PAULA MARTIN AND THE DUCHESS OF CORNWALL, WATCH ON AS THE BISHOP OF TRURO BLESSES THE NEW HELICOPTER

THE NEW HELICOPTER IS NAMED THE DUCHESS OF CORNWALL

TRAINEE CRITICAL CARE PARAMEDICS PAUL MASKELL AND LOUISE LAMBLE WITH THE DUCHESS OF CORNWALL

NEW HELI APPEAL AMBASSADORS PAUL AND EMMA AINSWORTH MET THE DUCHESS

BUSINESS CORNWALL | 47

THE LAST

WORD

It’s back to school for new Truro head

ANDREW JOHNSON

WHAT DID YOU WANT TO BE WHEN YOU WERE YOUNG?

I had childhood dreams of being an artist or a tennis player.

WHAT WAS YOUR FIRST FULL TIME JOB?

My first full time paid job, straight after university, was consolidating patient records for the NHS.

WHAT’S IN YOUR POCKETS?

Keys, phone, wallet, and facemask. As I write, also a London Transport Oyster card, which will have been hidden away in a drawer by the time of publication I hope.

HOW DO YOU LIKE TO RELAX?

I enjoy a run (although not so far or fast any more), a good movie or concert, and trying to stay slightly objective watching sport.

WHAT HAS BEEN THE BEST MOMENT IN YOUR CAREER?

Being appointed Head of Truro School. It is a privilege to join and work for this marvellous family.

WHAT HAS BEEN THE WORST MOMENT IN YOUR CAREER?

Being routinely mistaken for a sixth former in my first teaching job. I resorted to a tweed jacket and jumbo chords for a year to stop that, however.

WHAT WAS YOUR BIGGEST MISTAKE IN LIFE?

The tweed jacket and jumbo chords (see above!)

48 | BUSINESS CORNWALL

WHAT WAS YOUR LUCKIEST BREAK?

Not suffering major injuries when hit by a car in my teens. I suppose that’s my luckiest not break, really.

WHAT’S THE BEST THING ABOUT CORNWALL?

I enjoy ambling through the gardens at Trelissick, my daughter would say a breakfast shortbread from Chandlers in St Mawes, and my son would recommend eating some fine Cornish sand (but he is two!)

IF YOU COULD INVITE ANY TWO PEOPLE FOR DINNER, WHO WOULD THEY BE AND WHY WOULD YOU INVITE THEM?

I’d want guests who tell entertaining stories. Bruce Dickinson, perhaps, for tales of how you can be a nationally ranked fencer, airline pilot and heavy metal icon. I suspect he and John McEnroe might hit it off. I admire McEnroe as much for his ability to understand players’ psychology in his commentary as his maverick genius on court.

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

I would ensure that everybody followed Covid-19 guidance. We are all in this together and need to support each other as well as ourselves.

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

Enjoying being part of an economically thriving Cornish community, being baffled as to how fast my children are growing up, and continuing to find ways of improving the education offered to children by Truro School.

ARE YOU LOOKING TO HIRE A FINANCE PERSON?

The Significant Financial Employee grant from Access to Finance could help you attract financial expertise without breaking the bank. Eligible businesses can receive up to £10,000 for up to 20% of full salary costs for a role that meets the following criteria: · · · ·

Specific finance related project Up to a 12 month period Minimum salary level equivalent to £30K per annum Employee with degree or equivalent level

01872 300 386