Channel Chamber of Commerce

The Insider

2011-05-27T14:55:00.001+01:00

The Marlowe Theatre - Catering and Beverage operational requirements

Canterbury City Council wishes wants to identify suitable suppliers for all catering and beverage operational requirements (including specialist products) for The Marlowe Theatre’s new restaurant and bars.

In particular they require suppliers for the following categories:

Meat · Fish · Fruit & Vegetables · Dairy · Bakery · General Grocery (Dry, Chilled and Frozen) · Ice Cream · Confectionary · Beer · Wine · Spirits , non Alcoholic Beverages : Coffee, Tea & Hot Beverages · Tableware & Small Equipment · Disposable Packaging · Chemical and Cleaning Products

If you are interested in becoming a supplier for any items above please email procurement@canterbury.gov.uk or telephone Canterbury City Council Tel: 01227 862362 for an application form. Closing date for receipt of applications: 10 June 2011 (1300hrs)

Port Lympne £1m Make-Over

Port Lympne Wildlife Park has been transformed by a £1m investment in a new range of amenities and visitor experiences. Across their 600-acres they now offer four separate on-foot zones, linked by safari vehicles providing opportunities for families to discover previously out-of-bounds territory from which to view animals.

Two new restaurants with outdoor verandas have been built plus an education centre for talks and demonstrations by experts and an information centre where visitors can learn about the work of the Aspinall Foundation, the conservation charity behind the park.

A new Port Lympne Passport has also been launched which enable customers to return as many times as they like for a year from their first visit at no extra charge.

For further information about Port Lympne and the new Passport admission scheme please visit: www.aspinallfoundation.org

Search for Countryside Greeters

Walking and cycling enthusiasts prepared to share their passion for the Kent countryside and coast with like-minded people visiting the county are invited to join a new team of Countryside Greeters.

The Kent Countryside Greeters will be volunteers who will talk to visitors about the many different walks and cycle routes available to suit different levels of ability and interests, and then join them for a local walk or ride.

The Countryside Greeters project for coastal Kent is being launched at The Pines Calyx, St Margaret’s Bay, on Tuesday, 7 June. Everyone interested in becoming a Countryside Greeter will be given a short introduction to the Greeter programme and a walking tour of the area followed by discussions and a sandwich lunch.

No Hassle Serviced Offices and Meeting Rooms

Whether you’re expanding, starting out or working on a short term project, Channel Chamber has an office solution for you in Ramsgate and Dover.

* Low-cost, easy-in-easy-out terms
* Professionally manned receptions
* Furnished or non furnished options
* On-site, meeting, training and conference facilities with catering

We have already been successful in recruiting 10 small businesses including 4 business start-ups and 4 others new to Dover

For further details and an appointment to view please contact Sezen Zeki at Channel Chamber on 01303 270022.

Folkestone Rugby Club - Summer Ball

Don’t miss out on this year’s annual Summer Ball, being held on Friday 1st July at Folkestone Rugby Club. The Summer Ball is always a fantastic evening and proudly boasts of being one of the best social events in the district.

Contact summerball@folkestonerugbyclub.com to book now, or call Ian Fell (01303 257233)

The Insider

2011-05-17T15:35:00.000+01:00

Help us to get 100 residents On Line

The annual ‘Silver Surfer’ campaign takes place next week and Channel Chamber is making all efforts to get at least 100 local people (particularly the over 60's) to learn about and use the Internet.

We are holding a series of one-hour taster sessions (all FREE) throughout the week AND we are asking anyone interested to telephone us on 01303 270022 to make an appointment. If Chamber members (and your staff) know of anyone that needs such help PLEASE encourage them to contact us.

Join the Red Tape challenge

All hospitality, food and drink businesses are urged to take part in the government’s Red Tape Challenge and put forward their views on the red tape and bureaucracy which they feel is detrimental to their business.

This is a real opportunity for Chamber members in this sector to make their voices heard, giving practical suggestions to improve the current system.

To participate in the Red Tape Challenge (deadline 20 May) go to : www.redtapechallenge.cabinetoffice.gov.uk/home/index/

Training courses to build links with golf tourism market

Businesses in East Kent are also being encouraged to swing into action ready to greet thousands of golfing enthusiasts heading for The Open.

Visit Kent, the county’s tourism champions, is organising a series of Welcome to Kent customer service training courses specifically tailored for people entertaining or providing services or accommodation to visitors to the county during the golf championship.

The courses are being held in Dover on June 14, in Margate on June 15, and in Canterbury on June 16 and are led by Cheryl Parker, who heads the Visit Kent campaign to position Kent as a first class golfing destination across the UK and overseas.

To find out more, or to book a place, call Georgia Mannering, at Visit Kent, on 01622 696935 or email: Georgia.mannering@kent.gov.uk

Inaugural Science and Technology Forum

Chamber members are invited to the Science and Technology Club discussion forums held in partnership with IOD Kent.

Held on May 18th at Canterbury Christ Church University this inaugural forum will focus on CYBERCRIME, its effects on business and how it can be avoided.

To reserve your place, please email Claire Fisher, Bookings Administrator
e: eventbookings.south@iod.net or call her on 023 8026 6548

Are You Environmentally Aware?

20th May 2011 - 09:30am - 12:00pm

Port Lympne Mansion, Port Lympne Park

Channel Chamber is holding this interactive seminar in this beautiful setting to provide an introduction of environmental benefits to small businesses. This workshop is sponsored by the British Standards Institution (BSI) and prepared and delivered by David Hall, Managing Director of Business Flow UK Limited, it provides an introduction to Environmental business improvement using the “Carbon Hub” and ISO 14001. Kent County Council’s Jenny Colville will be explaining the Kent County Council's 'South East Business Carbon Hub' and the benefits of free registration. An introduction to the work of the Aspinall Foundation will be followed by Andy Wilson Business Development Manager from the British Standards Institute (BSI) who will be showing you the way forward, how to certify and the benefits of Environmental standards in your business. The cost includes a lunch time buffet, tour of Zoo Park & networking. To book your place please contact Tracy Reynolds on 01303 270022

Member Price: £20 + VAT
Non-Member Price: £25 + VAT

The Insider

2011-05-17T15:30:00.001+01:00

Support Demanded for Local Business

This morning on Radio Kent Channel Chamber urged all successful candidates in the local elections tomorrow to get behind East Kent businesses and help them to turn this area around.
The Chamber demanded that once elected all councilors at both parish and district levels should get out and meet their local businesses and find out how they can best help and support them.
We want our local councils to adopt a ‘can do’ policy towards business starting with a ‘buy local’ policy which they can adopt and also encourage their fellow public sector partners to follow suit. The total budgets of our councils, schools, colleges and hospitals comes to millions of pounds and much of this should be spent with our local businesses.
We also want our councilors to look towards the future of East Kent and make strong, bold decisions about regeneration and development. Businesses will be at the very heart of this agenda and they need their local councilors to be fully supportive of their growth and development plans if new jobs are to be created and the current level of unemployment to be lowered.

Sandwich and Deal Rail Times Slashed

Rail Travellers from Sandwich and Deal now have the prospect of a new High Speed Rail Service from 3 October 2011. This will slash the journey time to London to approx 90 minutes and aims to boost business confidence and support new employment opportunities in the area at the same time as Pfizer withdraws from its Sandwich site.
The service will provide 3 High Speed trains to London in the morning leaving Sandwich at 0551, 0617 and 0647 and calling at Deal 5 minutes later. Trains will return from St Pancras at 1740 and 1840.
The new service will build on the High Speed connections to be provided by Southeastern for the Open Golf Championship in Sandwich, in July.

Kent Schools Trade Fair

Businesses wishing to sell their services or products to Kent schools are invited to exhibit at the Kent CC Schools Trade Fair being held at the County Showground, Maidstone, Kent, ME14 3JS on Tuesday 21st June 2011.
This is a popular annual event giving local businesses an opportunity to meet staff from Kent schools that have the responsibility for purchasing products and services. Last year’s Trade Exhibition was very successful with 400 people visiting 80 exhibitors.
For further details and a booking form please telephone 01227 284612 or email sfstradeexhibition@kent.gov.uk

New cross-media services launched in Dover

Dover-based company Buckland Press has launched a new range of cross-media services. The company, now rebranded Buckland Media Group, has expanded its existing range of print services to offer businesses a full range of cross-media solutions.
In addition to conventional high quality five-colour litho print, Buckland Media Group now offers personalised digital print, communication solutions, fulfilment and distribution, as well as online services, such as web-to-print, collateral management and an innovative virtual storefront to streamline the process of corporate print ordering.
Buckland Media Group has also launched an innovative dimensional print finish using the latest Kodak digital print technology, which brings images and text to life, adding extra impact and effects to printed materials.
For further details please contact: Kris Lancaster. Tel: 01227 768808

Forthcoming Chamber Events

Free Workshop - So you think you don't need a Will or Power of Attorney!

11th May 2011 - 5:30pm - 7:00pm,

Shearway Business Park, Folkestone

Without a Will or the correct type of Will and without a Lasting Power of Attorney the consequences for families can be disastrous with the courts and social services making decisions for you. If you are a partner or a major player within a company then things can come to a grinding halt. Jaci Godman Irvine is an Estate Planner specialising in Wills, Trusts, Lasting Powers of Attorney and Probate. She is well known for explaining the many issues involved in plain English and in a manner that can be easily understood giving the choices which one can have in such a way that an informed decision can be made. Come to an informal evening where Jaci will give a short presentation followed by a question and answer session. To book your place please contact Tracy Reynolds on 01303 270022

Member Price: Free
Non-Member Price: Free

Are You Environmentally Aware?

20th May 2011 - 09:30am - 12:00pm

Port Lympne Mansion, Port Lympne Park

Channel Chamber is holding this interactive seminar in this beautiful setting to provide an introduction of environmental benefits to small businesses. This workshop is sponsored by the British Standards Institution (BSI) and prepared and delivered by David Hall, Managing Director of Business Flow UK Limited, it provides an introduction to Environmental business improvement using the “Carbon Hub” and ISO 14001. Kent County Council’s Jenny Colville will be explaining the Kent County Council's 'South East Business Carbon Hub' and the benefits of free registration. An introduction to the work of the Aspinall Foundation will be followed by Andy Wilson Business Development Manager from the British Standards Institute (BSI) who will be showing you the way forward, how to certify and the benefits of Environmental standards in your business. The cost includes a lunch time buffet, tour of Zoo Park & networking. To book your place please contact Tracy Reynolds on 01303 270022

Member Price: £20 + VAT
Non-Member Price: £25 + VAT

The Insider

2011-05-17T15:20:00.001+01:00

your Views on Manston Airport ??

Channel Chamber has been asked by Manston Airport to help them identify local business and travel needs.
Initial research undertaken amongst Chamber members indicates a significant demand for travel to a whole range of European destinations with staff members also keen to enjoy the prospect of many popular holiday destinations. If you haven’t taken part in this online survey please do so:
http://www.surveymonkey.com/s/channelchamber
It will be hugely valuable for Manston Airport to receive as many views as possible – from management and staff.

‘Folkestone’s Festival of Festivals’

FOLKESTONE Town Centre Management (FTCM) has invited local businesses, entertainment providers and community organisations to help present next year’s events programme as an all-embracing Festival of Festivals. It would include the town’s traditional summer season festivals and carnivals as well as local celebrations to mark unique national events.

Branding the events programme as a three-month something-to-please-everyone festival, claims FTCM, will enhance the marketability of Folkestone as a leisure, recreation and shopping destination and create extra sales opportunities for commercial and other enterprises which cater for and entertain holiday and day visitors

For more information please contact Folkestone Town Centre Manager on 01303 850522.

Recruitment for the Triennial

The Creative Foundation is recruiting for a number of summer positions for the Folkestone Triennial. The roles include Visitor Centre Manager, Invigilator Team Coordinator, Invigilators and Tour Assistants. Hours, pay and closing dates for applications vary for each role – details are in each Job Description.

Applications are by application form, covering letter and CV which need to be returned to the email address shown on the application form. Anyone who is interested, please find full details at www.creativefoundation.org.uk/job_opportunities.html or for an informal conversation about the roles, please call 01227 811777 or email maryann.lelean@yearoneconsulting.com

Forthcoming Chamber Events

Free Workshop - So you think you don't need a Will or Power of Attorney!

11th May 2011 - 17:30pm - 19:00pm, Shearway Business Park, Folkeston

Without a Will or the correct type of Will and without a Lasting Power of Attorney the consequences for families can be disastrous with the courts and social services making decisions for you. If you are a partner or a major player within a company then things can come to a grinding halt. Jaci Godman Irvine is an Estate Planner specialising in Wills, Trusts, Lasting Powers of Attorney and Probate. She is well known for explaining the many issues involved in plain English and in a manner that can be easily understood giving the choices which one can have in such a way that an informed decision can be made. Come to an informal evening where Jaci will give a short presentation followed by a question and answer session. Call Tracy Reynolds on 01303 270022

Member Price: Free
Non-Member Price: Free

20th May 2011 - 09:30 - 12:00

Are You Environmentally Aware?

Port Lympne Mansion, 20th May 2011 - 09:30 - 12:00
Channel Chamber is holding this interactive seminar in this beautiful setting to provide an introduction of environmental benefits to small businesses. This workshop is sponsored by the British Standards Institution (BSI) and prepared and delivered by David Hall, Managing Director of Business Flow UK Limited, it provides an introduction to Environmental business improvement using the “Carbon Hub” and ISO 14001. Kent County Council’s Jenny Colville will be explaining the Kent County Council's 'South East Business Carbon Hub' and the benefits of free registration. An introduction to the work of the Aspinall Foundation will be followed by Andy Wilson Business Development Manager from the British Standards Institute (BSI) who will be showing you the way forward, how to certify and the benefits of Environmental standards in your business. The cost includes a lunch time buffet, tour of Zoo Park & networking. To book your place please contact Tracy Reynolds on 01303 270022

Member Price: £20 + VAT
Non-Member Price: £25 + VAT

The Insider

2011-05-17T15:13:00.001+01:00

Turner Contemporary Opens

After ten years of hard work and planning, this momentous day will happen on Saturday 16 April from 10am with Tracey Emin and Jools Holland opening the new Turner Contemporary Gallery in Margate .

Don’t miss this chance to see how Margate has changed. Visit the eclectic retro boutiques, galleries, cafes, bars, restaurants, unusual attractions and places of interest. There’s also a series of free and family friendly events, exhibitions, live music, art and performances planned around the town

For a day by day guide to what’s on in Margate , visit:

www.thisismargate.co.uk or call 01843 577577 for full details.

Fire service to stop attending fire alarms

Chamber members and businesses across east Kent with automatic fire alarm systems are urged to check their fire safety risk assessments and fire alarm systems are in order and working correctly ahead of new proposals that could affect them.

Kent Fire and Rescue Service (KFRS) has been called out to 30,000 automatic alarms in the last five years, of which 99.07% were false alarms. These were often caused by dust or faulty equipment and the responsibility to maintain equipment lies with the responsible person. KFRS intends to stop attending calls to automatic alarms, unless they get a 999 call in the normal way to say there is actually a fire.

There is no legal requirement for fire and rescue services to attend calls to fire alarms sounding, however KFRS will be considering at-risk sites and ensuring that it continues to protect vulnerable communities. The requirement for maintaining and managing a fire alarm system sits with the responsible person for the building or site. This includes a responsibility to make sure the system operates correctly and does not produce unwanted calls.

KFRS shall be meeting with a wide range of stakeholders to raise awareness of the proposed changes and to discuss any concerns people may have. A period of public consultation is also planned later in the year.

For more information visit www.kent.fire-uk.org

New World Record For Folkestone

Grand Auctions, a new auction house based in Folkestone AND Channel Chamber member, has established a new world record for an Alan Lowndes painting of £30,000.

Grand Auctions established this world record price for British artist Alan Lowndes’s ‘Beach Scene’ (oil on board, 32 x 48 inches) at their inaugural auction held recently held at a clifftop venue in Folkestone with views across the channel to the French coast.

The company’s next auction is on Saturday 25 June and will be held at The Tower Theatre in Folkestone; notable lots in the sale include 46,000 78rpm records including T.S. Elliot reading his poetry. For more information call 01303 220440, or email info@grandauctions.co.uk or visit www.grandauctions.co.uk

Future Jobs For Eight Young People Looks Promising

Eight young employees at Oriac House Learner Centre have recently passed the ECDL qualifications – giving them proof of skills gained when they seek employment in the future.

Their certificates will be presented by the Mayor of Folkestone on Wednesday 20th April at 11.00hrs at the Oriac House Learner Centre, in Folkestone.

Similar to Channel Chamber’s own Future Jobs Fund programme, Oriac, has employed 8 young people who were previously on Jobseekers’ Allowance.. Each has been employed full time by the Learner Centre as tutors and IT technicians and during the first month they were required to study and sit the ECDL (European Computer Driver’s Licence) exams, in order to become qualified IT Tutors.

The FJF employees are all actively involved in another community project as part of the government’s UK Online scheme to try to get as many digitally excluded people as possible using the internet by 2013.

For more information on the Oriac Learner Centre please contact Monica Titterton, Centre Manager on 01303 278 418 or email: monica@oriac.eu

The Insider

2011-04-14T11:58:00.001+01:00

British Chambers of Commerce to lead nationwide LEP network

I am delight to inform you that the Secretary of State for Communities and Local Government has asked the British Chambers of Commerce to convene a network of Local Enterprise Partnerships (LEPs) in England. Additionally, he has asked David Frost, the Director General to chair the network.

This exciting development is the fruit of several months of discussions with ministers in both CLG and BIS. A network run by the private sector, for the private sector, is what the BCC have been asked to put together. This will also be inclusive, and the network will work with other business organisations and their members.

As part of the BCC Accredited Chamber network, Channel Chamber of Commerce relished the oportunity of contributing to the LEP agenda and that most importantly our members across east Kent can stay engaged with our local LEP which covers Kent, Essex and east Sussex.

Southeastern Olympic Timetable

Southeastern have recently launched their Olympic Timetable Public Consultation document for their train timetable during the 2012 games which is attached for your information. A more detailed briefing, including full timetables, will be issued in June 2011. In the meantime if you have any comments or queries please e-mail communications@southeasternrailways.co.uk

Resolving Workplace Disputes

Employers across East Kent are urged to respond to the Government’s public consultation on resolving workplace disputes before the deadline on 20 April. The consultation sets out the latest Government plans for reforming employment laws, which seek to address some of the concerns raised by businesses about the current system of regulations, and improve the efficiency of the employment tribunal system.

The Government’s proposals aim to encourage workplace disputes to be resolved at an early stage, cutting the number of claims that proceed to full hearings and ultimately reducing the amount of time and money that employers have to invest to defend themselves. If these objectives can be achieved then, overall, both employers and employees will benefit but some proposals are likely to be extremely unpopular with the business community.

All employers with an interest to take part in the consultation advised to visit: http://www.bis.gov.uk/Consultations/resolving-workplace-disputes

Preliminary Supplier Event for Offshore Wind Farm Extension project

The University of Kent in partnership with Vattenfall Wind Power Limited are holding this event as an opportunity to find out how the procurement process (taking place from late 2012) will work for this project.

Taking place on 6 May from 10am – 1pm at Darwin College , University of Kent at Canterbury , there will be presentations from key project staff regarding the proposed Kentish Flats Extension and the Vattenfall procurement process; there will be plenty of time for questions.

Please note, once the key contractors (turbine manufacturer, cable supplier, foundation supplier, etc) have been appointed, another supplier event will be held, probably in 2013.

Any email enquiries should be directed to enterprise@kent.ac.uk

Expert Job Hunting Advice

Our sincere thanks to prospective member Xquisite Recruitment for spending a morning in our Ramsgate office kindly supporting our Future Jobs Fund team. Paul Clayton, the CVs of these young people.

Xquisite is an independent recruitment consultancy working for clients on a National basis for over twenty years. They have an extensive knowledge of a variety of industries including Accounting, Secretarial and Administration, Distribution, Logistics & Transport, Sales, Marketing, IT, Construction, Industrial and Engineering, HR, and Call-Centres.

Last Chance to book onto the Chambers Tax Clinic!

Tax experts - Reeves & Co in conjunction with Channel Chamber of Commerce are holding a Tax Clinic for local businesses at the Burlington Hotel, Folkestone on Thursday 14th April starting at 7.30am. Spaces are limited, to avoid disappointment, please call Tracy Reynolds on 01303 270022 or simply reply to this email.

Independent Insurance Services – not your average insurance broker…

Along with providing tailored insurance solutions to our personal and commercial clients, we also offer a wide range of additional services from Risk Management through to claims assistance.

We realise that it can be difficult to keep on top of current legislation as well as running a business. As brokers we are constantly striving to provide the best service to our clients, and one area which not only causes commercial businesses day to day problems, but also greatly affects their “insurability” is Health and Safety.

Independent Insurance Services are able to offer a bespoke service to assist with employment law aspects and Health & Safety issues. Feel free to contact us to arrange a no obligation consultation with a Risk Management specialist.

We feel it is also important to assist our clients as much as possible should you unfortunately suffer a property claim. Our external claims management company will handle your entire claim and organise reinstatement works through to settlement in order to minimise disruption to your business.

For these services and for any insurance quotations please contact us on 01303 221188. Alternatively, if your insurances are not due for renewal we can provide you with a free insurance review.

The Insider

2011-03-14T09:34:00.001Z

Plans for fountain at Folkestone Harbour

The Folkestone Harbour Company has submitted a planning application to Shepway District Council to install a large water feature in the harbour square that borders Chummy’s Seafood stall and the harbour edge.

The new feature forms part of a general improvement programme that is taking place at Folkestone Harbour , including the construction of two new restaurants, all of which is designed to make the area more attractive to local people and visitors.

For further press information and for images as J-Peg files please contact Peter Bettley on 01303 245838 peterbettley@strandhouse.org

Dover Marina Hotel and Spa set to open

Kent ’s newest upmarket hotel, the 81-bedroom Best Western Dover Marina Hotel & Spa in a stunning beach-front location overlooking Dover Harbour is opening on 24 March.

Several million pounds has been invested in the iconic Kent hotel once favoured by royalty and celebrities. The elegant property is a centrepiece of the regeneration of the Dover waterfront, and has been fitted out by one of the UK ’s top interior designers.

The hotel’s facilities will include:

*

81 refurbished and individually styled en-suite bedrooms
*

Three conference, function and meetings rooms
*

Stylish restaurant and bar
*

Free WiFi internet access throughout the hotel
*

Well-equipped fitness and spa centre (opening soon)
*

Seafront coffee shop and ice cream parlour (opening soon).

For more information, details of special offers or to book, call 01304 203633, email reservations@dovermarinahotel.co.uk or visit www.dovermarinahotel.co.uk

Congratulations to Realia

Chamber members and full service marketing agency Realia has recently been awarded status on the Recommended Agency Register (RAR). RAR conducts research amongst customers of marketing services agencies, asking them to confidentially score the agency across a range of criteria. Of the seven criteria measured, Realia was rated significantly better than other recommended agencies in six areas – client service, creativity, effectiveness, professionalism, strategic thinking and value for money...

For further information on Realia and their services please contact Paul Williamson at 01303 298388/298389 or email paul.williamson@realia-marketing.com

Three must attend events in March

Channel Chamber has organised three exciting events this month – all with a very different flavour and offering members and East Kent businesses real value for money networking opportunities.

Open evening jointly hosted with the FSB

On Tuesday 15th March we are getting together with FSB members for an Open Evening at the Burlington Hotel, Folkestone. With guest speaker, Dorothy Thom this informal event offers members from both organisations to make plenty of valuable new contacts.

Wine tasting with the Chamber at the Grand

This promises to be a memorable event for anyone keen on French wines. Chamber member, Grainger Fine Wines are selecting some of their favourite red and white wines for you to enjoy and Simon Grainger will be giving the low-down on the grape varieties and independent winemakers involved. Make a note in your diaty – Wednesday 23rd March, 6pm – 8pm at the Grand, Folkestone.

Speed Networking at the award winning Ambrette

Can you manage a 2 course evening buffet – a glass of wine AND the opportunity to meet fellow business owners/managers and directors ? Hosted by the fantastic Ambrette Restaurant in Margate on Wednesday 30th March, this evening of speed networking is likely to attract businesses across Thanet and beyond so early booking is strongly recommended.

To book each of these three events please telephone Tracy Reynolds on 01303 27002 or visit our website: www.channelchamber.co.uk

Save money with Independent Insurance Services our new sponsor!

Independent Insurance Services have been serving the local community since 1991. We have always been customer focused by providing a professional yet friendly service when dealing with insurance solutions for our customers. We are also able to offer assistance with Health & Safety and Risk Management issues.

We have always worked on the principle of treating our customers the way that we expect to be treated ourselves. We pride ourselves on our service standards which have been demonstrated by winning various awards over the years, including the Channel Chamber Business Commitment to the Community Award. The company is registered to both British Standards Institute (BSI) 9001 Quality and 14001 Environmental standards.

Independent are committed to continuous staff training and we ensure that all products are delivered with the utmost professional standards from our dedicated team.

We can quote for various types of insurance, whether commercial or personal, and have access to special schemes with many insurers. We search the market by using the latest technology to ensure we remain competitive at all times and that our policies offer the best scope of cover to meet our customer’s need and requirements. We assist our clients throughout the whole process of arranging a policy and, in the unfortunate event of a claim occurring, provide help and guidance from notification through to settlement.

We would welcome the opportunity to quote and even if your insurances are not due for renewal yet, please contact us on 01303 221188 for a free insurance review.

The Insider

2011-03-14T09:32:00.001Z

Unhappy with your Broadband?

If you currently feel that your business in Shepway or home receives insufficient broadband speeds and that this hampers you or your businesses ability to work to its maximum potential then Shepway District Council would like to hear from you. To air your views please complete the questionnaire below, it takes no more then 2 minutes to complete.

http://www.shepway.gov.uk/businessbroadband perspective http://www.shepway.gov.uk/residentialbroadband - residential properties Public meetings to discuss Shepway’s rural broadband strategy are also being held shortly

* Lyminge village hall from 7-9pm on the 9th March

* St Marys Bay village hall from 6-8pm on the 10th March

Goodbye Robert

Robert Boutwood, Director of Fundraising Projects for the Aspinall Foundation has left after an amazing 32 years at the Wildlife Park . He will be sadly missed by Channel Chamber and many of our members who met him at as regular supporter of our networking events in Shepway.

We wish him every success for the future and hope that our paths cross in the future.

National Apprenticeship Awards

Channel Chamber is encouraging local apprentices and their employers in East Kent to enter the 2011 National Apprenticeship Awards. This is a unique opportunity for them, to receive regional and national recognition for all their hard work and achievements through Apprenticeships.

This year the Apprenticeship Awards will be working with City and Guilds to honour England ’s best Apprenticeship employers. All employers who enter the Awards will be eligible and those judged to be the very best of the best will be recognised and published as a Top 100 Apprenticeship employer.

Visit apprenticeships.org.uk/awards now to find out more and enter on-line. Closing date: 25 March 2011

Business Continuity Seminar and Workshop

The Kent Resilience Forum is holding a free business continuity seminar and workshop on 16 March 2011 at the East Malling Conference Centre. The event aims to promote resilience and preparedness in Kent and Medway, particularly focusing on situations where businesses can not open as usual, and the impact this has on them and the local community.

This event is open to both private and public sector organisations and coincides with the national Business Continuity Awareness Week from 21 to 25 March.

http://www.kent.police.uk/news/latest_news/business_continuity_forum.html

British Chambers of Commerce - Trade Survey responses

Many thanks to all Channel Chamber members who responded to this recent trade survey. A magnificent 22% of our membership took part and a total of 8,001 completed surveys were received nationally - clearly a great platform from which to build an International Trade Finance lobbying platform.

The national results will be released by the BCC shortly and details will be circulated to our membership.

Good Trader Scheme

Did you know that Kent Trading Standards runs a dood trader scheme called ‘Buy with Confidence (BWC)’ ?

All scheme members are thoroughly checked and approved before they are allowed to join. Consumers can search online or call Consumer Direct and ask for a printed list of traders. A video clip can also be seen on the website providing tips on how to fid a good terdesman. For more information please visit: www.buywithconfidence.gov.uk www.tradingstandards.gov.uk/kent

The Insider

2011-02-16T11:11:00.001Z

Up to £8,000 towards a Research Project

Businesses from any sector, based in the South East region can benefit from either a £4,000 or £8,000 voucher to spend with any UK university or public sector research provider.

The deadlines for this scheme are very tight - applications must be submitted by 9th March, 2011, vouchers awarded by 31 March and projects completed by 31 July 2011 - so we are endeavouring to reach as many businesses as possible as quickly as possible to give them an opportunity to take advantage of this offer. I believe it is worth posting on the Channel Chamber's website or e-mailing this to members and if businesses are interested they can contact me.

For a scheme application form and guidance notes please contact Samia Ounzab (Project Manager - Business Engagement, Centre For Enterprise and Business Development) on 01227 782093 or e-mail: sam.abdiche@canterbury.ac.uk

Thanet Community Safety Open Forums

Thanet Community Safety Open Forums are taking place over the coming weeks, starting on Monday 21st February at the Birchington Centre, Alpha Road , Birchingotn.

These event's will run from 6.30pm-8.00pm and will be an opportunity for residents and businesses to find out about local crime statistics, help set priorities for the next 12 months and speak to Chief Inspector Fox from Kent Police and Community Safety and Enforcement Service Manager - Mark Richardson, Thanet District Council, about any local concerns they have.

For further details please contact Jessica Bailey (Community Safety Co-Ordinator, Thanet District Council) on 01843 577737

2011 Census is coming

The 2011 Census takes place on 27 March and the data it provides will be vital for planning the future of Kent businesses.

Employers are being asked to play their part in gathering this essential data by telling staff about the census, making sure staff know their workplace postcodes for the travel to work statistics, and by publicising the census on their websites, notice boards and in newsletters. Away from the office, census data is equally important for employers and staff because it is used to plan public services which are vital for them, their families and their communities. These services include; health, education, and local facilities.
Census takes place once every ten years and is the only national survey that counts everyone in the country. Every household must take part in the 2011 Census and for the first time this year, responses can also be submitted online. For more information, posters and leaflets www.census.gov.uk or call 01329 444972

Joining Hands – An Auction of Promises

Local businesses are invited to a Fund Raising Gala evening being organised by the Chamber charity of the year – Joining Hands at Hadlow Manor Hotel on Saturday 12th March 18:30 till Midnight.

Tickets cost £40 and include a stunning 3 course dinner, an auction with a veritable feast of treats, and a capricious cabaret show to conclude the evening. For more information please contact Betsy on 07837 896122 or by E-mail to info@joininghandskent.co.uk

Financing a Sustainable Future

Due to sponsorship by the East Kent Social Enterprise Network (EKSEN), places at the Financing a Sustainable Future event at the Pines Calyx on March 9th, are now available at £25. This applies to all those who have already expressed an interest or booked (there is no need to re-book – you will automatically get the £25 rate

This event is open to anyone with a desire to establish and grow a social business and who needs to know more about the financial routes open to them. It is also useful for those who provide advice and support to the social enterprise sector, and who wish to learn more about the sector. Speakers, including Nigel Kershaw, Chairman of 'Big Issue' Invest, and Charles Bicker from Kent and Medway Social Enterprise Network, will cover a range of topics including the different financing options available to Social Enterpries. To book your place, please contact marie@eastkentlsp.org.uk Places will be allocated on a 'first come first served' basis.

Raise Your Profile, Raise Your Income workshop

This is an interactive FREE workshop that explores the impact of marketing communications on all aspects of your organisation, but with a particular emphasis on how it can help create funding and income opportunities.

Attend this workshop and you will learn how to get funders and partners begin supporting your organisation - without needing to break the bank!

It is being run on Wednesday 23rd February at the Margate Media Centre at 10am - 3pm Lunch is provided and all of this is FREE. For bookings and further information please contact Cara at TVCSF on 01843 609686

Masterclass in Modern Business Ideas

Modern business can be a blur of jargon. With thousands of books all claiming to hold the key to relentless success, you could spend hundreds of hours reading them all. In his entertaining and authoritative masterclass, Kevin Duncan condenses and summarises current thinking on modern business and marketing (featured in his current books ’Business Greatest Hits’ and ‘Marketing Greatest Hits’), giving you broad knowledge of some of the top, up to date business ideas.

This Masterclass takes place on Wednesday 9th March (6pm of 6.30pm) at the Old Sessions House, Canterbury Christ Church University . The cost is £34.50 (which includes your buffet supper and a copy of Kevin’s book ‘Business Greatest Hits’). To book a place email Fonte Maria Totaro, fonte-maria.totaro@canterbury.ac.uk or call 01227 782666.

Kent Community Recycling
Our Latest Sponsor
Don’t throw it – give it!

Did you know that you can help people in need without it costing you a penny? Simply drop in all your empty drinks cans from home and work to Kent Community Recycling in Aerodrome Road, Hawkinge [next to the Kent Battle of Britain Museum] between 8.00am and 4.30pm weekdays with late night opening till 6.00pm on Thursdays.

You choose which worthy cause you wish to support. Your support will be greatly appreciated and it costs you nothing! Our recycling has raised over £½ million so far for charities and worthy causes in Kent. We look forward to seeing you. www.kentcommunityrecycling.org.uk

The Insider

2011-02-03T09:46:00.001Z

Folkestone Skills Fair – 9th February

Next Wednesday at the Leas Cliff Hall in Folkestone. Channel Chamber and more than 80 employers will be meeting 1,000 local students at the Folkestone Skills Fair.

This event will be a day of interactive-information seeking; a day during which each student will be able to explore occupations and post-Secondary options, as well as career and life pathways, all while having lots of fun.

The Skills Fair will be open from 9.30am, to 3.00pm and if anyone is interested in joining us please contact : els.howard@gmail.com (07728681395) in advance.

Helping to make Margate a Success

As part of the work to get Margate ready for the opening of Turner Contemporary, work is now underway to create a marketing toolkit that will be used to help promote the new Margate.' brand’ This will include a new strapline , typography colours etc plus a photographic library incorporating historical and factual information about the town.

Channel Chamber is inviting local businesses to use their skills and expertise to help make the right decisions about this new brand and if you’re keen to make a contribution please visit:

http://www.thisismargate.co.uk/culture/this-is-margate-toolkit/public-vote-for-margate-typogr.aspx You can read more about the Margate toolkit by visiting: http://www.thisismargate.co.uk/culture/this-is-margate-toolkit.aspx

Breakfast at the Marquis at Alkham Thursday 17th Feb

This popular networking breakfast does "exactly what it says on the tin", giving members and non-members an opportunity to network, to meet other businesses in a relaxed, fun yet business environment.

We meet from 7.30am, onwards for open networking, with breakfast being served at 8.00am. Followed by a quick round the room introduction, there is never any pressure to give referrals or to speak in public if you don’t want to.

Spaces are limited to 30 for this event. To avoid disappointment please contact Tracy Reynolds on o1303 270022 or email tracy.reynolds@shepwaybc.co.uk

Leadership Fundamentals - Friday 11th February

Does one of your staff have leadership potential ? The Canterbury Innovation Centre, is offering a one day course that could cost you nothing through Train to Gain Leadership and Management funding, subject to availability and eligibility. For further details and how to book please visit: http://www.icekent.co.uk/training/ice_training_programme

Our Recycling Champions and Sponsors

Kent Community Recycling, based in Hawkinge near Folkestone, has a new roll of honour on its website, listing all the local businesses who deliver their materials for recycling.

As a result of their efforts these businesses also raise funds for their chosen charities or worthy causes - as KCR donates the proceeds from their materials.

Mark Wyatt, of KCR, and Channel Chamber congratulates all these businesses who are doing such a sterling job to clean up our environment. Details of these recycling Champions can be found on the KCR website at www.kentcommunityrecycling.org.uk

Are you into Electronics, Embedded Systems or High Value Manufacturing?

The BIG-Kent network, in partnership with key business support organisations is hosting a special focus group on the Medway Campus at Chatham Maritime on the 7th February in the Blake building, room B028. (10.00am to 2.00pm)

To register your interest for this event please contact Jason by email at wj77@gre.ac.uk or call on (01634) 883912

The Insider

2011-02-03T09:44:00.001Z

Help and Support for Thames Gateway Chamber Members

News reached us last Friday that Thames Gateway Chamber had stopped trading and we are now working with the BCC and neighbouring accredited Chambers in order to support all the members involved.

As the BCC accredited Chamber for East Kent , Channel Chamber has the resources and capacity to service all members needs and with a host of support services (local and national) at our disposal we are fully prepared to help whenever its needed.

Don’t forget - We're just a phone call away – 01303 2700022

Come Along – Tuesday 25th January – and find out more !

Local businesses and chamber members (networkers & non-networkers) are invited to the first Channel Chamber event of 2011 – an informal social evening (6pm – 8pm) at The Pullman Wine Bar, Church Street in Folkestone.

If you haven’t been into Folkestone Town for a while you’ll discover that the Pullman has undergone extensive reburbishment and offers a warm, comfortable and relaxed atmosphere in which to meet many new business contacts.

To book your place please phone Tracy at the Chamber today on 01303 270022 or email: tracy.reynolds@channelchamber.co.uk This event is free of charge – you just pay for your drinks !

The Future at Dungeness

The Department for Energy and Climate Change has agreed to hear local people’s views about the future of nuclear power at Dungeness and a public meeting is being held on Saturday 22 January (10.30am – 12.30pm) at the Assembly Rooms, Church Approach, New Romney.

If any Chamber members can’t make it and want to express their views please email Channel Chamber this week and we’ll ensure these are taken to this meeting.

Thanet District Council Budget

Thanet District Council are asking Channel Chamber members in the District for their input to help them shape their budget expenditure for the year ahead.

This is a real opportunity for many small businesses to have a say in what goes on locally in 2011 but any responses are needed by the deadline – Friday 21st January.

The survey is online - www.thanet.gov.uk/budget or can be collected from any Thanet library or TDC office, or can be requested by e-mailing consultation@thanet.gov.uk or calling 01843 577120.

Let’s Make East Kent Shine

Channel Chamber is throwing its weight behind the 2011 KEIBA Awards and we are urging local businesses, members and individual in East Kent to enter this prestigious competition. It’s the opportunity to gain recognition for the efforts some of our local businesses richly deserve.

For more in depth information, rules and guidelines please visit: www.keiba.co.uk

Kent Community Recycling
Our Latest Sponsor

Don’t throw it – give it!

Did you know that you can help people in need without it costing you a penny? Simply drop in all your empty drinks cans from home and work to Kent Community Recycling in Aerodrome Road, Hawkinge [next to the Kent Battle of Britain Museum] between 8.00am and 4.30pm weekdays with late night opening till 6.00pm on Thursdays.

You choose which worthy cause you wish to support. Your support will be greatly appreciated and it costs you nothing! Our recycling has raised over £½ million so far for charities and worthy causes in Kent. We look forward to seeing you.

The Insider

2011-01-11T16:24:00.000Z

FREE TEMPORARY STAFF

Does your business have any outstanding work or tasks to achieve, but doesn’t
have the money to hire additional staff?

Do you have any urgent customer orders to
fulfil but are struggling for time and manpower? If yes, please read on.

We know that many small businesses are looking to recruit young people from the local area, but are finding the process frustrating, time-consuming and expensive. Channel Chamber can now assist businesses to access the wealth of local talent available with our new work placement programme.

Our pool of young people, aged between 18-24 years old, are all actively seeking employment and are available immediately for periods of between 4 to 6 months FOR FREE. Working with Kent County Council and local partner LSBC (Learning and Skills for Business and the Community), Channel Chamber is delivering the Government’s ‘Future Jobs Fund’ programme aimed to get young people into employment.

Our teams in Thanet, Dover and Folkestone can arrange interviews with potential candidates matched to your organisation’s needs, with no obligation or cost to you. Towards the end of each work placement, employers will be invited to assess each individual's ability and aptitude and if you wish can offer them permanent employment.

Telephone calls are made being made this week to a cross section of Chamber members to identify suitable work placements across the area. Alternatively, if you have an urgent need please telephone Channel Chamber TODAY at 01303 270022 or email: sezen.zeki@channelchamber.co.uk

Shepway’s Future – Join the Open Debate

Chamber members are invited to join local business leaders and senior representatives of the District Council at an OPEN MEETING of the Shepway Economic Regeneration Partnership (SERP) to discuss important local regeneration issues for the year ahead.

Taking place at Lydd Airport on Friday 28th January the meeting will start (at 10am) with an opening address from Damian Collins MP.

To book your place please telephone Tracy Reynolds on 01303 270022 or email: tracy.reynolds@channelchamber.co.uk

Your Business and the Spending Review

A big thanks to so many Chamber members who responded to our earlier request. If you have a moment spare, and want to let Channel Chamber know what you think about the Government’s Comprehensive Spending Review and what challenges this is likely to pose please complete our online survey at: http://www.surveymonkey.com/s/LXGZT9S

The Insider

2011-01-10T09:12:00.000Z

Business Link Service to Close

Government has announced that the Business Link regional service in Kent is being closed in November 2011. Future public expenditure will be spent on increasing the number of high growth businesses and on improving the information and guidance to business provided online and over the phone.

We are aware that many Chamber members across East Kent have been using Business Link services throughout the past decade and we will be most interested to learn how this decision is going to impact on them and what ‘support’ is likely to be needed by local businesses from now on.

Please email your comments to Peter.hobbs@channel chamber.co.uk

BUSINESS FORUM - 'New Tax Rules for 2011'

Canterbury Christchurch University are holding their next Business Forum on Tuesday 18th January at Hall Place
, Hall Place Enterprise Centre, Canterbury, commencing with a networking breakfast and coffee at 7.45 hrs (finishing approximately 10.30 hrs). Cost £10 payable by cheque or cash on the day.

The presenters for this event are Sue Clarke and Karen Burns from the Business Advice team at HM Revenue & Customs who will provide an update on all the new policies regarding business tax in the coming year.

To book please email fonte-maria.totaro@canterbury.ac.uk or call on 01227 782666.

EU grants for innovative SME's

EUREKA 's Eurostars Programme is the first European funding and support programme to be specifically dedicated to SMEs. Eurostars aims to stimulate small & medium sized businesses to lead international collaborative research and innovation projects by easing access to support and funding.

For further information http://www.eurostars-.eu/ or telephone Channel Chamber for further information on 01303 270022.

Kent Trading Standards Guidance and advice

Kent Trading Standards is responsible for enforcing a wide range of consumer legislation concerning fair trading, quality, quantity and safety and to control farm animal welfare and disease. They offer advice and information to help local businesses comply with the law and work to national guidelines

For guidance and advice businesses are invited to visit their website at http://www.tradingstandards.gov.uk/kent/business.htm If you would prefer to talk to someone and you are based in East Kent please phone: 01233 898825 or email: trading.standardseast@kent.gov.uk

Green Business Grading Award

Our congratulations to Chamber member - The Ramada Hotel Dover who have achieved a Silver Grading at their first inspection by Green Business UK. To achieve this grading the Ramada has implemented a strong environmental policy together with procedures and a plan to minimise energy consumption. Part of this plan has included buying locally wherever possible.

If you are interested in any tips or advice about achieving this award please contact Trevor Bond (Group Sales & Marketing Manager - Ramada Hotel Dover) on 01304 821230

The Insider

2011-01-10T09:10:00.001Z

VAT Increase

Just in case anyone has forgotten may we remind you that the Standard rate of VAT will be increasing to 20% on or after 4th January 2011.

Weekly Policy Updates

We have arranged for Channel Chamber members to start receiving Weekly Business Policy Updates direct from the British Chambers of Commerce. This e-newsletter gives an insight into what the policy team at the BCC have been working on
each week, along with any Government announcements that might be relevant to their policy work. Adam Marshall, the BCC Policy Director writes an upfront introduction giving an overview of what has been happening in Westminster throughout the week, and there are contact details for the relevant policy staff if more information is required.

University Support at 50% Discount

A new initiative has been launched by the University of Kent which enables businesses to tap into their expertise and assist you with the development of innovative, creative or enterprising projects. The Innovation Voucher scheme offers a contribution of 50% (excl VAT) of the cost of working with the University on projects such as consultancy and training.

Innovation Vouchers give businesses the opportunity to improve growth and performance by tapping into the University of Kent’s academic expertise and gaining access to specialist facilities and knowledge. It may be that you have a technical issue that requires the latest research to produce a new product or service; or it may be that your workforce requires special training to improve their management skills or special presentation techniques to secure new orders.

Further details may be found at: www.kent.ac.uk/enterprise/innovationvouchers

Big Society Workshops

The East Kent LSP and CASE Kent are hosting a series of learning workshops on social enterprise which will run from January until March 2011. Bookings will open in January 2011; in the mean time please register an interest with Marie Hamm on marie@eastkentlsp.org.uk

The Impact of High Speed Trains on the local economy

Chamber members wishing to contribute towards this survey please visit the EK LSP homepage www.eastkentlsp.org.uk The closing date is 21st January 2011.

Channel Chamber Closing Dates

Channel Chamber’s offices at Folkestone, Ramsgate and Dover will be closing at noon on Friday 24th December and will reopen again on Tuesday 4th January at 9am.

If members have any urgent needs or queries please do not hesitate to email myself or Sezen and we will pick these up remotely. Wishing you all a Merry Christmas and a Prosperous New Year.

The Insider

2010-12-06T15:26:00.001Z

Skills Kent 2011

Employers in all sectors are now being recruited to exhibit at the forthcoming Skills Fair on Wednesday 9 February at the Leas Cliff Hall in Folkestone.

With up to 1,400 secondary school and college students in Shepway set to attend the Fair, this is an ideal opportunity for 100 local employers and post-16 training providers to provide information regarding their organisations and the jobs they offer.

Channel Chamber in conjunction with the Shepway Secondary Learning Partnership has now appointed Cassie Long to ensure this event is fully supported by Chamber members and that the local business community is kept fully up to date with developments over the next three months.

For further information on Skills Kent 2011 and details of exhibition space please contact Cassie on 01303 270022

London 2012 Business Opportunities

There are still many opportunities to be awarded in the London 2012 supply chains which are listed on the www.competefor.com website. To respond online businesses need to be registered and fully published on the site. The process of registering is a great way to experience and practice completing an online prequalification questionnaire even if these opportunities are not suitable.

Now that many other major buyers (Crossrail, Transport for London, Local Authorities etc…) are posting opportunities on the CompeteFor site it makes it even more interesting for local businesses to take advantage of both; the possible opportunities, to see companies in supply chains by looking at the awarded contract information and just using the site, details of awarded contracts and published suppliers for market intelligence.

Recycling Champions

Did you know that empty glass bottles recycled and crushed at Hawkinge by Kent Community Recycling are supplied to the world famous Becker Studio as well as the Natural History Museum and the Royal Horticultural Society at Hampton Court.

Widely proclaimed as the best quality glass cullet in Kent, chamber members are encouraged to make full use of this facility for all their recycling needs. For more details please contact Mark Wyatt on 01303 or visit the KCR website:
www.kentcommunityrecycling.org.uk

Canterbury Christ Church Job Fair

On Friday 21st January Canterbury Christ Church University are holding their annual JobFair. Businesses across East Kent and beyond will have an opportunity to network with the students and discuss recruitment and summer internships.

Please see further details please contact the Employability and Careers team at: careers.events@canterbury.ac.uk or visit http://www.canterbury.ac.uk/support/careers-and-student-development/events/jobfair.asp

Business Volunteers Needed

Young Enterprise is looking for business volunteers in East Kent who can commit a couple of hours each week to assist and advise students within local schools.

The active involvement of volunteers from business and the local community is fundamental to Young Enterprise’s mission to inspire and equip young people to learn and succeed through enterprise. Their volunteer business advisors also share in the learning experience, exploring and developing their own skills and knowledge alongside students.

Opportunities for involvement in the YE programmes are currently available at the Marlowe Academy, Cranbrook School, The Archers at Dover and Brockhill Park School at Hythe. For further information please contact Trudie Hartridge on 07702 887997

Santa Shopping Specials to Hythe

Romney Marsh residents are being offered free return travel to Hythe on the Romney Hythe & Dymchurch Railway's 'Santa Shopping Specials' on Saturdays December 4, 11 & 18.

Hythe High Street will be closed to traffic from 5pm – 10pm on December 10, when a three-hour programme of family fun and entertainment will feature Santa Claus and a horse-drawn sleigh. Members of Hythe Chamber of Commerce will be offering special discounts and shoppers can enjoy mulled wine, hot chestnuts and nibbles. For further information please contact Kate Blyth on 01303 267236.

New Guide to Shepway

A 32 page full-colour guide of Shepway is now being distributed via UK tourist information centres and other outlets in Britain and the near – continent. Published by the Discover Folkestone, Hythe & Romney Marsh tourism partnership, the guide will play a vitasl role in promoting shepway as a short break holiday, day-out and leisure destination.

Kent Rural Tourism Showcase Returns

Preparations are under way for Countryside 2011 following this year’s hugely successful inaugural campaign – and rural businesses in Kent are being urged to sign up without delay.

Village communities, stately homes, farms, tea shops, hotels, B&Bs, vineyards and everything in between – all country-based event organisers, businesses and attractions across the county are being galvanised to join forces and help boost rural visitor numbers.

Countryside 2011’s ‘fortnight of discovery’ takes place from 28 May to
12 June. All organisers in Kent who meet the campaign criteria can add their attractions, events or activities to the Countryside 2011 programme free of charge. For full details of the campaign and how to register visit www.countryside2011.org.uk

Chamber Christmas Lunch with Damian Collins, Limited Spaces Left

On Friday 10th December at The Grand, Folkestone Channel Chamber members, their staff, partners, customers and friends are invited to join us and enjoy a glass of Mulled Wine alongside a roaring open fire, listening to a pianist playing all your favourite Christmas Carols. A fabulous three-course luncheon, wine, coffee & mince pies will be served then sit back, relax and enjoy a host of entertainment.

This is a very popular event and attracts over 100 members every year. Places are going fast and we only have two tables left so you will have to book quickly to secure your place.

To avoid disappointment simply reply to this email or give us a call on 01303 270022

The Insider

2010-11-24T11:10:00.002Z

Winter Fun on the Railway

Channel Chamber member and host of our Summer Breakfast meeting at New Romney, the Romney, Hythe and Dymchurch Railway, have made changes to their normal tourist and educational transport operations this winter.

Santa Specials are now a tradition for many families and these run again on December weekends before Christmas and on the Tuesday to Friday (21st to 24th December). Trains leave from Hythe station on a regular timetable and need to be pre-booked using the Santa Hotline 01797-363256. The trip includes steam-hauled transport Hythe to New Romney, seasonal refreshments, a quality gift for all the children and a visit to the Model Railway exhibition all seasonally decorated. There is even an option that includes lunch and on Friday 10th December an evening option that includes a 4 course meal. To find out more the railway’s website is www.rhdr.org.uk

Less well known is the Christmas gift with a difference that the railway specialises in.

Ever wanted to drive a steam engine (under supervision of course) ? If you are over 18 and averagely fit, this is the ideal present for you or a loved one. The day long course including all tuition and meals plus a souvenir book and certificate costs £260.00 and is available to book now for the early part of 2011 (when there are no public trains running). Vouchers are available to give as presents. More details on the website and bookings are taken daily 9 to 5 on 01797-362353.

Win Flights with Flybe

Visit Kent , in partnership with Manston , Kent 's International Airport , is conducting a survey into the most popular accommodation booking sites and travel agents' preferred wholesale suppliers or consolidators.

Their aim is to identify the best bookable and commissionable product in the marketplace in Kent that is available to a travel agent or tour operator. As a thank you, two tickets for two to Manchester will be offered in a prize draw from all completed survey forms. Please follow the link below to enter the competition.
www.visitkentresearch.co.uk/flybe/WebHTML/flybe.htm

Small business health adviceline is taking off

A report by NHS Plus shows that increasing numbers of small business employers are turning to its free Health for Work Adviceline, introduced to help tackle the impact of sickness absence in the workplace. More than a thousand businesses have called the Adviceline and the numbers are increasing every month.

Overall, sickness absence costs the UK around £100 billion each year. For small businesses, the effect of just one employee being absent can be huge in terms of productivity, recruitment costs and staff morale, but they often lack the resources that larger organisations have at their disposal to tackle employee ill health.

The Adviceline (Tel: 0800 0 77 88 44) puts businesses in direct contact with occupational health professionals for advice on how to help an employee with a physical or mental health problem either stay at work or return to work sooner.

The Open 2011

Preparations are well underway for the return of The Open at Sandwich next year. More than 180,000 spectators staying between one and seven nights attended the Open when it was last staged in Sandwich in 2003 – contributing an estimated £17.6 million to the local economy. Even more visitors are expected for the 2011 tournament, which runs from10th to 17th July.

The new website - www.opengolfsandwich.co.uk - launched with the aim of being a ‘one-stop shop’ for visitors and residents is already receiving approx 8,000 hits a month. There is a free listing for all accredited accommodation and research indicates that many now prefer to book accommodation online. By updating and offering bookability, the website can offer this essential option by displaying these properties first.

To find out more about updating availability, offering bookability or becoming a temporary accommodation provider for The Open please contact sandrakillick@dover.gov.uk

Kent Fire & Rescue Service

Draft plans for the future of our county-wide fire service have now been published and major changes are envisaged for Thanet in particular. Chamber members and other local business across East Kent are invited to take a look at these ideas and respond accordingly.

Please visit the website: www.kent.fire-uk.org and follow the link from the home page.

Chamber Christmas Luncheon with Damian Collins

Channel Chamber is delighted to be holding our annual festive luncheon celebrations at The Grand in Folkestone on Friday 10th December and we are really looking forward to meeting our members across East Kent. This very popular event has attracted 100 members and we have two tables left so you will have to book quickly to secure your place.

This is an ideal opportunity to entertain your staff, partners, customers and friends. Join us for a glass of mulled wine alongside a roaring open fire and listen to a pianist playing all your favourite Christmas Carols.

This will be followed by a fabulous three-course luncheon, wine, coffee & mince pies, followed by a host of entertainment, including our ever popular charity raffle, the proceeds of which are going to a local member charity – Joining Hands.

Tables of eight cost £230 or individual places are £30 – Members & £35 Non-Members. Please call Tracy Reynolds on 01303 270022 to secure your place.

As part of this event we always hold a Charity Raffle and businesses are invited to donate a suitable gift towards this. If you are able to assist please call Tracy Reynolds or simply reply to this email.

All proceeds of this year's Charity Raffle will be donated to:

Joining Hands

‘Joining Hands’ is a group of teachers, practitioners and professionals who are passionate about people, their social conditions, and future aspirations. They aim to provide an interface between the knowledge and skills required to set up cooperatives, social enterprises and businesses. Joining Hands is particularly supportive of youth social enterprise and entrepreneurship and would like to advocate for young people in and around Kent to set up and run their own social enterprises. Any donations will be kindly appreciated.

The Insider

2010-11-15T10:02:00.001Z

What happens to your waste packaging?

Kent Community Recycling in Hawkinge have asked us to send out this urgent question to ALL Chamber members and other local businesses. You may already have this packaging collected by a waste management company at a fixed charge per visit, or you may even deliver this directly to the KCC facility at Hawkinge.

Alternatively, you can now deliver all your waste packaging on a regular basis to Kent Community Recycling and receive publicity for supporting charities and worthy causes of your choice or have KCR collect for recycling at just 10p per kilo. Kent Community Recycling have been dedicated to reducing waste for more than 21 years and were the first not-for-profit recycling organisation in Kent

It’s easy – Just call 01303 893772 with your trading name and postcode and leave the rest to them. For further details please visit www.kentcommunityrecycling.org.uk

Win £500 in Margate Photo Competition

In readiness for the opening of the Turner Contemporary in Spring next year a photo competition has been organised to celebrate everything that’s special about the town of Margate . A panel of judges, including top international photographer, Martin Parr will decide the shortlist and the winners will be voted for by the public. The overall winner will receive £500 of Shop Local First Vouchers.

For further details and the competition terms and conditions please call 01843 577169 or visit www.thisismargate.co.uk

Report from Beijing

David Frost (British Chambers of Commerce) travelled over to China this week with the Prime Minister and 20+ leading businesses. This is his brief report of the first 48hrs.

“PM has focused on Trade and has clearly got a good relationship with the Chinese Prime Minister. This was evident at a meeting that we attended at the Great Hall of the People.

The focus of the visit is clear - " Britain is open for business". A strong emphasis on trying to get inward investment into the UK . This was evident at a reception held at the Embassy last night to which a large number of potential Chinese investors had been invited to. This is the biggest UK Political/ Trade delegation. I have also met with Huhne and had some discussions with Vince Cable.

The push is on to get SME's to get into China - a clear theme at a series of workshops today. I have made a strong play for the Chamber network, but we also need to think about how we use the Internet effectively. Cable spoke at a Dinner organised by the China British Business Council and again made the case for investment into the UK .

The British-China relationship is in good order. There are some issues, which I will come back to, but overall joined by a desire for free and open trade. I would have to say that the PM and his Ministerial Team are doing a very good job of promoting the UK and fighting for British business interests."

FREE Events for Global Entrepreneurship Week (15 – 21 November)

The University Centre Folkestone is holding a range of FREE business events but since place are limited advance booking is required. Please contact: Jane.seaman@canterbury.ac.uk

Mon 15 November - 5.30-7.30pm - UCF hosts Kent Association of Young Entrepreneurs Networking event "How to Time Manage" with speaker Julia Russell.

Tues 16 November – 10am – 4pm - Jake Rayson runs a workshop for visual artists/designers/creatives called Putting your Portfolio Online. Topics include:

Weds 17 November – TWO workshops on entrepreneurial awareness and skills 10am-12.30pm - Shane Record, artist/gallery owner based in the Creative Quarter Folkestone ,

2pm-4.30pm - Catriona Campbell, Creative Tourism Consultant and Director of Escape to Create

Thursday 18th November at 6pm - Charlotte Baynes,

professional, multi-disciplined artist, lecturer and explorer of Flamenco presents a A Flamenco Journey, a Public Lecture with exhibition (followed by Private View at 7.15pm)

The Insider

2010-11-04T13:03:00.000Z

New plans for local growth

A new Government White Paper was published last week setting out exciting plans to kick start local growth. As part of these plans twenty-four new local enterprise partnerships have been given the green light, including in one that encompasses Kent, Medway, East Susses and Essex..

The Government’s new approach is an attempt to rebalance the economy, helping drive sustainable growth by focusing on three key themes:

* Shifting power to local communities and businesses, by creating dynamic local enterprise partnerships.
* Increasing confidence to invest.
* Focused investment, by tackling barriers to growth that the market will not address itself.

All three BCC Accredited Chambers in Kent , including Channel Chamber are looking forward to playing a key role in the new LEP to ensure that the needs of local businesses are fully acknowledged.

For details of the press release which includes a link to the White Paper itself. http://www.bis.gov.uk/news/topstories/2010/Oct/local-growth

Calling all Home-based businesses

How important are home-based businesses to the Kent economy ? What help and support is needed to grow these businesses ?

All self-employed professionals, freelancers and those with their own companies are requested to spend just a few minutes in taking part in the following online survey . Anonymity and data protection is guaranteed.

To take part please visit: www.workhubs.com/surveys and click on KENT SURVEY

If you would like to discuss the survey with the specialists brought in to organise this research, please email or ring the
Work hubs Network direct on 01736 331872 (direct line for director Tim Dwelly)

Major Business Boost for Lydd Airport

Lydd Airport ’s development plans have taken a major leap forward after the airport was upgraded by the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) to handle a much wider range and size of commercial airliners including trans-Atlantic corporate jets such as the Gulfstream G500..

The airport had to satisfy a series of rigorous CAA requirements to achieve its new category, culminating in its annual emergency exercise. For more information about Lydd Airport , visit www.lydd-airport.co.uk

Where are you going to enjoy Christmas?

Folkestone Racecourse?

They are offering non race day Christmas party packages which start from £24.75 + VAT pp*. This comes with ample free parking, exclusive use of the venue ,dancing/disco, bar facilities and an adjacent Railway Station for those who don’t want to drive!
For further details please contact email emma.santer@folkestone-racecourse.co.uk or call 0870 220 0023

Or a more natural Christmas Lunch

If you’re fed up with tinsel and singing Santas why not try the award winning sustainable venue, The Pines Calyx. They are taking Christmas Lunch bookings for parties of 10 to 70 people from 22 November through to 17 December,Monday – Friday.

Sit back and enjoy a home cooked festive buffet in an elegantly decorated and naturally
inspiring venue.For further details contact 01304 851 737 enquiries@pinescalyx.co.uk www.pinescalyx.co.uk

Spoil Yourself at the Marquis

And don’t forget to mark a date in your diaries to bring family, friends & colleagues to the Marquis at Alkham this festive season. They have recently been included in the Good food guide, and awarded 2 rosettes by the AA guide. Christmas lunches are available throughout December, through to their New Years Eve tasting dinner evening, there really will be something for every celebration in 2010 (and into 2011)

For further details and reservations please telephone 01304 873410 or visit www.themarquisatalkham.co.uk

Lunch with Damian Collins

This year our Annual General Meeting will be taking place on Friday 12th November and Chamber members and non-members are most welcome to join us for a buffet lunch, where our new Chamber President Damian Collins will be giving us a short review of his first three months as an MP and there will be an opportunity to meet and talk to members of our Chamber Board.

There will be a small cost of £12 Plus Vat for lunch. To avoid disappointment you are urged to book your place soonest with Tracy Reynolds on 01303 270022.

The Insider

2010-11-04T12:58:00.001Z

Message from David Frost, Director General British Chambers of Commerce

Overall, last week's Spending Review wasn’t as bad as we expected. After months of warnings that the Review would provide a harsh blow to us all, the Chancellor’s announcements felt rather calm and measured by comparison. Business has always said that this Spending Review would be hard – and we also said it would be necessary.

So as individual departments begin to reveal the real projects and real jobs that face the axe, the local impact of the Spending Review will become clearer. Sitting in Westminster , however, I would make three big comments on how business interests have fared overall.

First, we have won the overall war to preserve a decent level of capital spending on critical infrastructure. The BCC has campaigned loudly for protection of investment in infrastructure, which helps business productivity, and for this we can claim a measure of success.

Crossrail, the second Mersey crossing, New Street Station, improvements to the East Coast Mainline and a better M62 and A11 will all go ahead, for example.

Second, the battle is still to be won when it comes to providing UK exporters with the support they need to crack new markets – and in many cases, to export for the very first time. Serious cuts to the core budget of UKTI, and possible cuts to export support in the devolved nations, along with a continuing failure to address problems relating to trade finance and trade credit insurance, will continue to be a rallying cry for our lobbying work in the coming months.

Third, the Government must now turn its attention to developing a real strategy for growth. It has spent months speaking the language of austerity and cuts; if the private sector is now to generate jobs to follow in the wake of those cuts, businesses need to feel that central Government has a confident and positive plan for the UK ’s economic resurgence. That’s why the BCC will be calling on ministers to make 2011 a Year for Growth.

For further background please visit the BCC website at: www.britishchambers.org.uk

Recruiting Channel Chamber members

We are looking for someone to recruit new Chamber members across the Shepway area. This role will be on a commission basis only, with flexible hours and full training will be provided.

An ideal position for someone who has 2/3 days per week to spare who can follow up on leads provided by our marketing campaigns. The successful candidate will also be expected to build relationships with new and existing members ensuring the professional, friendly image of the Chamber is maintained.

For further information please telephone Sezen Zeki on 01303 270022

Have your say with Damien Collins, MP

Chamber members and local businesses are invited to air their views with local MP Damian Collins at his
third ‘Business’ Surgery being held on Friday 5th November at Channel Chamber, Shearway Business Park, Folkestone.

This is your chance to say what you think of the proposed local regeneration plans, or maybe you have a particular issue you want to highlight with him!

To book an appointment with Damian on
the 5th November, please email sezen.zeki@channelchamber.co.uk

Business Volunteers needed!

"Young Enterprise is a charity that was founded in Chatham , Kent 47 years ago and has gone on to become a National organisation. Its aim is to promote and encourage entrepreneurship attitudes and business awareness amongst students.

Company Programme enables students to set up and manage their own real businesses. Its aim is to help students understand the world of business and give them an insight into what is involved in running their own company. This is normally run with year 16/17-year-old students and lasts from September/October time until May. As part of the scheme they have the help of a volunteer adviser, usually drawn from the local business community, to give them advice and guidance. Currently we are in need of more advisors and would be pleased to hear from any Chamber members who are interested in finding out more of what is involved."

If you are interested in becoming a business volunteer please email dave.tibbert@yese.org.uk

Chamber Breakfast 3rd November, Ramada Hotel, Dover

Our popular networking breakfast does "exactly what it says on the tin", giving members and non-members an opportunity to network, to meet other businesses in a relaxed, fun yet business environment.

We meet from 7.30am, onwards for open networking, with breakfast being served at 8.00am. Followed by a quick round the room introduction, there is never any pressure to give referrals or to speak in public if you don’t want to.

Good humored and inclusive, and you are bound to feel at ease, and able to sell yourself and your business. Don’t forget to bring your business cards!!

For further details or to book your space, contact Tracy Reynolds on 01303 270022 or email info@channelchamber.co.uk

The Insider

2010-11-04T12:52:00.001Z

Folkestone Triennial 2011

Channel Chamber members and local businesses in the tourism sector
(hoteliers, taxi drivers, retailers, restaurateurs etc.) from Folkestone and the surrounding area are invited to the Quarterhouse next Wednesday 20th October to find out more about The Folkestone Triennial 2011 and the opportunities it presents for local businesses to benefit from the visiting audiences.

Wednesday 20 October 2010, 6-7.30pm, Quarterhouse, 45 Tontine Street , Folkestone , Kent CT20 1JT

This event is free but advanced booking would be helpful for catering purposes.Please call 01303 858500 to book your place.

Get Online Week: 18 – 25 October

It’s just a few days away and Channel Chamber plus other local UK Online Centres are gearing up to take part in the national ‘Get Online Week’ to help convert more and more residents across East Kent to understand and enjoy the benefits of the Internet.

Here on Shearway Business Park , Chamber member - Oriac House Learner Centre is holding events on 18th and 20th Oct (tel: 01303 278418)

SES Tutors Ltd and the B48s Early Years Resource Project are holding events in Folkestone on 19th Oct and 20th Oct respectively..

In New Romney, at Romney Resource 2000 Limited in Mountfield Road an event is being held on Friday 22nd October.

For more information about all these events and regular ‘Get Online’ sessions please contact Abbishek at Channel Chamber on 01303 270022.

Microsoft Exchange Hosting

Channel Chamber of Commerce has entered into partnership with Intermedia, the world's largest Microsoft Exchange hosting provider, to offer Intermedia’s hosted Exchange solutions to businesses across East Kent . Channel Chamber now offers Intermedia’s hosted Exchange 2010 as well as a range of other business communications services designed to support small and medium-sized companies.

Intermedia’s hosted Exchange 2010 service provides customers with:

* Expert Support: Intermedia offer friendly and professional support available 24/7, from a highly-trained support team, with an average hold time of less than one minute.
* Free Migration: Intermedia assists in the migration from a customer’s current email system at no cost, with its exclusive Exchange Concierge™ service. Customers’ Active Directories – including distribution lists – are imported typically in under an hour.
* Premium Infrastructure: Intermedia boasts a multi-million pound infrastructure, providing a market-leading, financially-backed 99.999 percent uptime service level agreement. All datacentres feature the highest-quality hardware from Dell, EMC and Cisco.

Intermedia is the recognized global leader in hosted Exchange with over 250,000 premium mailboxes under management worldwide, more than any other provider. The company offers and integrates the full ecosystem of business communications services, including Exchange 2010 with Outlook 2010, Microsoft Office Communications Server, SharePoint, and mobile email support for devices including BlackBerry, Android and iPhone. The company also provides a range of proprietary technologies, including its HostPilot® Control Panel, which gives users full control over their Exchange experience. For more information, visit www.intermedia.net

Hythe Imperial Steams Ahead

Work on the refurbishment of the Hythe Imperial, one of the largest hotels in the county and major landmark in the town, has got underway, as part of the owner’s commitment to its future success.

To officially mark this exciting next step in the history of the imposing Victorian hotel, Councillor Keren Belcourt, Mayor of Hythe Town Council, will be planting a commemorative tree this coming Friday afternoon.

Young Apprentices at Pent Valley Technology College

Pent Valley Technology College in Folkestone is looking for local businesses that are able to offer a placement to their students as part of their Young Apprenticeship programme. Students participate in the programme for 2 days a week – one day completing a Business Studies qualification at school, and the other in a work placement to gain basic admin skills.

The work experience could include photocopying, faxing, answering the telephone, filing and any other office duties. Students will then use this experience to support assignments that they will write in school. In order to achieve the Young Apprenticeship qualification, students need to complete 50 days in a work placement throughout years 10 and 11. Employer you are not committed to having these students for this full period.

If you are interested and want further information please contact. Clare Dinsdale, Work Experience Co-ordinator on 01303 277161 ext.4004 or email: Clare.dinsdale@pent-valley.kent.sch.uk

The Insider

2010-11-04T12:49:00.002Z

Equality Act 2010 Now in Force

Last week saw a range of employment regulation announcements, leading the Chambers to question whether or not the Government’s promises to deregulate were nothing more than talk.

The Equality Act 2010 came into force on Friday and there were many changes to the National Minimum Wage. The Government also announced that Additional Paternity Leave is going ahead in April 2011, as is an extension to the right to request flexible working. Both of these are described as interim measures before more wholesale reforms.

Ask Cllr Robert Bliss – Leader of Shepway District Council

As part of National Customer Service Week, businesses and residents across Shepway are invited to ‘Ask the Leader' any questions about the council by filling in an ‘ask the leader' form and dropping it into the Civic Centre. Cllr Robert Bliss, Leader of the Council will then post his responses on the website. Please telephone Tracy Reynolds at the Chamber (01303 270022) for a copy of this form.
Shepway District Council will also be holding a number of raodshows locally to make everyone more aware of the services they provide. See their website for further details :http://www.shepway.gov.uk/content/view/201030/1922/

Train Services in Kent Online Survey

Win a night out for two at the Quarterhouse, Folkestone's leading venue for comedy, film, music and theatre. The prize includes two tickets to see a film of your choice* and a meal in the restaurant for two people.

To share your experiences and opinions of train services in Kent please complete the online survey to be entered into the free prize draw

Your A-Board Need a License

According to the KCC any business wishing to place an A- Board on the public highway, must now seek permission from Kent Highway Services. Once agreed, a permit will be issued and will need to be displayed in the premises shop window.

This replaces their existing Tables and Chairs Policy and KCC are claiming to be improving highway safety for pedestrians, reducing the appearance of clutter and obstructions in streets. Taking into account the current financial climate; their new policy has also been designed to be both ‘straight forward’ and ‘inexpensive'. Visits are also planned to all 12 districts over the coming months, to let businesses in each town centre know about this.

Let Us Entertain You

If you’re not already on the circulation list may we recommend that you sign on to a new monthly email providing details of a wide variety of cultural events across Kent .

The idea is to link events and potential audiences in as simple a way as possible without overwhelming people with information as many “what’s on” listings do.

You can choose a single highlights email and/or an email about one of eight specific art forms, delivered to your inbox each month. There are art form-specific emails which cover: festivals, theatre, film, comedy, live music, classical music, visual arts and children's events.

Sign up NOW at www.kentarts.org.uk

Get Online Week: 18 – 25 October

It’s just a fortnight away and Channel Chamber is gearing up to take part in the national ‘Get Online Week’ to help convert more and more residents across East Kent to understand and enjoy the benefits of the Internet.

The Insider

2010-10-05T16:38:00.001+01:00

Damian Collin’s Monthly Business Clinic

Chamber members and local businesses are invited to air their views with Folkestone and Hythe MP Damian Collins at his second ‘Business’ Surgery being held this Friday 1st October at Channel Chamber’s offices, Shearway Business Park, Folkestone.
This is your chance to talk to Damian one-to-one on any particular issue you want to highlight. To book an appointment with Damian between noon & 2pm please email Sezen.zeki@channelchamber.co.uk

Channel Chamber’s 2010 AGM

This year our Annual General Meeting will be taking place on Friday 12th November and Chamber members and non-members are most welcome to join us.
The AGM will be held at the Chamber’s offices at Shearway Business Park in Folkestone, beginning at noon and this will be followed by a buffet lunch Our new Chamber President Damian Collins will be giving us a short review of his first three months as an MP and there will be an opportunity to meet and talk to members of our Chamber Board.

There will be a small cost of £12 Plus Vat for lunch. To avoid disappointment you are urged to book your place soonest with Tracy Reynolds on 01303 270022.

Chamber Speed Networking Evening

Join us for a fun evening of Speed Networking and meet plenty of new business contacts on Thursday 14 October at the Quarterhouse, Folkestone.
Our guest speaker is Dorothy Thom who will be talking about ‘The Customer Factor’ – a taster session demonstrating how natural learning can give you a fresh perspective on self development.
Members:£14.95 +VAT Non-members £17.95 +VAT and this includes a 2 course evening meal with a glass of wine. For further details and to book your place please contact Tracy Reynolds on 01303 270022

East Kent Conference - The Big Society

Registrations are now open for this exciting event. The Big Society is happening in East Kent now, with rising demand for services but massively reduced budgets across the four districts of Dover , Canterbury , Shepway and Thanet, resourceful ways of working need to be introduced. Public and voluntary sectors will need to communicate and collaborate better than ever before to meet this challenge, which is why the East Kent LSP is working with CASE Kent to facilitate the East Kent Conference – Big Society in East Kent .

If you would like to join in this conversation, look out for full details of the conference, including how to register your interest, which will go on-line next week, at www.eastkentconference.org.uk The event will take place on the 4th November 2010, Dover Cruise Terminal 2

Free IT Assessment

Members and non-members are welcome to bring their own laptops and other IT equipment to this all-day event at the Chamber’s offices, 11am -7pm Folkestone Enterprise Centre, Shearway Business Park in Folkestone on Monday 11th October. Award winning Chamber members, Nova IT Solutions are providing practical help and advice to fellow businesses on all aspects of their IT systems, hardware and software.

Booking in advance via Tracy Reynolds (01303 270022) is highly recommended to avoid disappointment.

iShop – Kent’s First eCommerce Conference

Kent 's first eCommerce conference comes to the Pines Calyx Eco Conference Centre near Dover on Friday 5th November. With experienced guests speaking on key strategies for successful online trading, it's a fantastic opportunity to listen to, learn from and ask questions of those at the sharp end of eCommerce.

The day's full agenda, plus details about the speakers and booking can be found at www.ishopkent.co.uk

The Insider

2010-10-05T16:35:00.002+01:00

Are You Ready to Tender?

Channel Chamber is holding another of our popular workshops in Ramsgate on Thursday 30 September aimed at helping small businesses to qualify for big money contracts.
The event is being sponsored by the British Standards Institute (BSI) and supported by Kent County Council and David Hall, MD of Business Flow Attendees will gain invaluable information about contract tendering and learn all about Kentwindenergy.co.uk – the new online business directory for off shore wind.

Members:£15 +VAT Non-members£20 +VAT

For further details and to book your place please contact Tracy Reynolds on 01303 270022

High Speed Rails Users Survey

Chamber members who have been using the new High Speed rail service to St Pancras are invited to share their experiences on an online survey being conducted by The East Kent Local Strategic Partnership.
The link to the survey is http://www.eastkentlsp.org.uk/files/webfm/site/eklsp_highspeedtrain.htm and is open for the next four weeks.

Kent Economic Board - Big Conversation

This “Big Conversation” event being held at 8 October 2010, 2 ‘til 5 pm at the John Wigan Room, Oakwood House, Maidstone is targeted at businesses with a special interest in the Renewables, Retro-fit and Energy Efficiency aspects of the Low Carbon Economy.

We hope Chamber members will be able to make time to attend this important meeting.
Please respond with your availability to Sylvana Jones on 01622 221940 or via email sylvana.jones@kent.gov.uk or register online at www.keb.org.uk/news-and-events

Free IT Assessment

Members and non-members are welcome to bring their own laptops and other IT equipment to this all-day event at the Chamber’s offices, 11-7pm Folkestone Enterprise Centre, Shearway Business Park in Folkestone on Monday 11th October.
Award winning Chamber members, Nova IT Solutions are providing practical help and advice to fellow businesses on all aspects of their IT systems, hardware and software.

Booking in advance via Tracy Reynolds (01303 270022) is highly recommended to avoid disappointment.

For further details on the services Nova IT solutions offer, contact Heather below
T: 0800 019 4525 DD: 01622 829093 M: 07525 965 359 F: 0845 611 8123
EMail: heather@nova-itsolutions.com Web: www.nova-itsolutions.com
Addresss: 17 Hart Street, Maidstone, Kent, ME16 8RA
Join Us: on Twitter and Facebook

Chamber Speed Networking Evening

Join us for a fun evening of Speed Networking and meet plenty of new business contacts on Thursday 14 October at the Quarterhouse, Folkestone.
Our guest speaker is Dorothy Thom who will be talking about the ‘The Customer Factor’ – a taster session demonstrating how natural learning can give you a fresh perspective on self development.
Members:£14.95 +VAT Non-members £17.95 +VAT and this includes a 2 course evening meal with a glass of wine. For further details and to book your place please contact Tracy Reynolds on 01303 270022

The Kent B2B event not to be missed

Hosted at the Kent Showground, Detling , Kent on Wednesday 10th November 2010, Business Week Live promises to be a great opportunity for Chamber members to interact with the business community of Kent and showcase your products and services. Channel Chamber has already taken a stand and we will be looking forward to meeting all our member businesses.

For more information click on our Exhibiting and Floor plan pages. You can also see who's going to be there, by clicking on the A-Z of Exhibitors page.
To register to attend Business Week Live please click here or if you wish to speak to one of the Events Team for more information contact : 01303 817172 or email: liz.hare@kosmedia.co.uk

Promoting Equality – Your views

Local district councils have a responsibility to promote equality of (economic) opportunity and its important they receive feedback from their constituents (including businesses) on how they do this.

Shepway District Council’s draft Single Equality Scheme has recently gone out for public consultation and they have asked Channel Chamber to encourage Shepway-based members to feedback their views.
Full details of this consultation are available on the SDC website and there is a special form for responses to be registered .
http://www.shepway.gov.uk/content/view/201014/1253/

The Insider

2010-09-07T12:34:00.002+01:00

Your views are needed!

At Channel Chamber, we take the views of local businesses seriously. Our annual survey helps to provide us with a better understanding of the needs and expectations of both members and non-members in the current economic climate, and also helps to ensure our services remain relevant to the business community across East Kent .

The survey will take on average less than 10 minutes to complete.

WinChamber Membership FREE for Three Months - All completed surveys submitted to us by 31 August 2010 will be automatically put into a draw and the winner will receive Chamber membership free for three months. You can of course enter your data anonymously if you wish.

Thank you for your cooperation. Your answers will not be released separately without your prior consent. If you have any questions or would prefer to complete a paper survey please call us on 01303 270022 or e-mail us at info@shepwaybc.co.uk

Survey (Link)

New board members invited

The Chamber AGM will be taking place at lunchtime on Friday 12th November. Full details of this event will follow next week and we are hoping this year to attract a good number of Chamber members.

At this stage the Chamber Board seeks nominations from members who wish to nominate themselves or another member (in which case their consent will be required). Any nomination should include the full name of the individual, the business organisation, some background in terms of relevant experience and qualifications and a brief note of the skills that he/she could bring to the Board.

Please indicate your interest to peter.hobbs@channelchamber.co.uk at your earliest convenience, and you will then be contacted for further information

Shepway Development News

We are pleased to signpost you to the latest edition of Shepway’s Local Development News, which will provide an update on Shepway District Council's work in the production of the Local Development Framework Core Strategy. Here is the link to the relevant section of the council's website: http://www.shepway.gov.uk/content/view/200313/953/

London 2012

The London 2012 procurement portal www.CompeteFor.com is still a great learning opportunity for many SMEs in understanding what ‘Fit to Supply’ means. Many new business opportunities from a wide range of buyers, both in and out of the 2012 supply chains are still being posted on the portal every week.

Kishor Gurung guitar performance

Kishor Gurung the International Nepalese classical guitarist is making his premier UK performance at the Tower Theatre, Shorncliffe on 24th September. This event is in aid of raising funds for the Folkestone Gurkha Memorial Fund and tickets can be purchased via the box office number: 01303 223925 or details via website: www.towertheatrefolkestone.co.uk

Zeena Invites You

Zeena Cooper of MCCH in Folkestone is inviting Chamber members to the Zena Cooper Racing networking event at Brands Hatch Formula Ford Festival on October 17th. Enjoy the fabulous views of the track from a penthouse suite whilst watching some of the finest racing in Britain and network with other businesses and like minded individuals.

Along with the suite and refreshments throughout the daythere will be access to both paddock and pit areas and the chance to talk to the drivers and get the full motorsport experience. For more information about this unique event go to:

http://ticket.motorsportvision.co.uk/calendar/2010/october/101017-formula-ford-bh.aspx and for information about the suite go to http://www.racingevents.info/

10% Off your Bill

The Burlington Hotel in Folkestone is offering fellow chamber members a 10% discount when booking their small meetings or large conferences up to the end of Feb 2011. To take advantage of this offer please telephone 01303 255301info@theburligtonhotel.com

Public Exhibitions- Proposals Development at Folkestone Racecourse

Following on from a local residents’ workshop, held on Saturday 17th July and a Local Business Panel meeting held on Tuesday 20th July, Arena Leisure has now started the production of masterplan options to support its submission for inclusion of the Racecourse in the Shepway District Council Core Strategy as a Strategic Site.

Two Public Exhibitions have been organised for local residents and businesses to drop in and view the plans. These are being held at:

The Spitfire Room, Folkestone Racecourse, on Wednesday 15 September 2010, between 3:30pm and 7:30pm

Saturday 18 September 2010, between 9:30am and 12:30pm

A dedicated Project Team will be in attendance to answer questions on a range of topics including Racecourse design, housing type, density and location, access, heritage, construction and sustainability/green issues amongst others. There will also be a FAQ sheet available to aid further understanding of issues and feedback forms to allow comment on the proposals.

If you would like to discuss issues prior to the Exhibitions, please do not hesitate to e-mail racecourse@rpsgroup.com or write to Folkestone Racecourse Consultation, Freepost RRZJ-YYEL-RXKS, RPS Group Plc, 1st Floor West, Cottons Centre, Cottons Lane , London , SE1 2QG .

Can you help Joining Hands?

Joining Hands will be holding an Auction of Promises fundraising event on the 6th November at Hadlow Manor Hotel. Joining Hands provides skills training, courses and workshops in disadvantaged communities in Kent . The funds raised from this event will be used to support Joining Hands’ work in our local communities. Furthermore, 5% of the net proceeds will be donated to Help for Heroes charity.

We are in the process of collecting merchandise and services for the event, and I am writing to request your assistance in making Joining Hands’ event a success. By donating an item you will be making a tax deductable contribution that will help Joining Hands continue to help make life better for individuals in needs, right here in our communities.

Additionally, you will benefit from exposure of your company’s name to those who attend the event, and local media. Donors will be listed on the event programme, and the merchandise you give will be on display through the event.

Should you wish to donate an item or a promise to support our continued work, please contact us on 0800 612 3328 or by email at info@joininghandskent.co.uk to find out how to participate? To find out more about the work of Joining Hands please visit www.joininghandskent.co.uk

Earn and Learn programme is coming to University Centre Folkestone!

University Centre Folkestone will introduce a unique study opportunity this autumn. The successful Work Related Learning Degree, with a focus on Business and Management, will be presented during our open day - September 7th 2010
The degree is aimed at anyone employed or self-employed looking to lay the foundations for a career in business and management, or professional managers seeking to update their skills and knowledge. This undergraduate degree does not require traditional A-level or equivalent entry qualifications. A brief conversation with our academic staff will determine your eligibility.

Because it is a part-time degree, you will be able to learn whilst working and also have the chance to immediately apply the skills learned in your workplace. Furthermore, you will be able to study in stages for either a Certificate in Higher Education, a Diploma in Higher Education or a BA/BSc Degree.

I am pleased to share with you, the financial flexibility that the Work Related Business and Management Degree can offer you. Modules can be paid for individually, offering complete flexibility to suit your business or personal budget. 25 Work Related Business and Management Degree places have been allocated to the University Centre Folkestone, with a late September start. I am keen to hear from you to reserve you a place if you are interested

Alternatively you are welcome to attend one of the summer open events taking place on Tuesday 7 September 2010, 4pm - 7pm. I have attached an invitation to you, for you attend these events if you would like to learn more.

For more information about this programme please visit:

http://www.canterbury.ac.uk/courses/prospectus/undergraduate/c.asp?cours

Welcome to Telford Associates

Telford Associates are a finance and business consultancy specialising in providing part-time and interim Finance Directors to small amd medium sized businesses. We provide free initial consultations to businesses to assess their requirements and are also currently offering an exclusive 15% discount to Channel Chamber members. Please contact Mark Telford for more information at mark@telfordassociates.com or visit www.telfordassociates.com

The Insider

2010-08-19T11:50:00.001+01:00

Your views are needed!
At Channel Chamber, we take the views of local businesses seriously. Our annual survey helps to provide us with a better understanding of the needs and expectations of both members and non-members in the current economic climate, and also helps to ensure our services remain relevant to the business community across East Kent .

The survey will take on average less than 10 minutes to complete.

Win Chamber Membership FREE for Three Months - All completed surveys submitted to us by 31 August 2010 will be automatically put into a draw and the winner will receive Chamber membership free for three months. You can of course enter your data anonymously if you wish.

Thank you for your cooperation. Your answers will not be released separately without your prior consent. If you have any questions or would prefer to complete a paper survey please call us on 01303 270022 or e-mail us at info@shepwaybc.co.uk

Survey (Link)

Chamber's New Look E-bulletin Designed by Digicooldesigns
Digicooldesigns creates websites that help businesses to grow and develop online. How: 1. Webdesign - for every level of business: simple brochure sites starting at £300 to full content management systems and ecommerce websites 2. Online marketing - flash animated banners search engine optimisation - climb high on google 3. Graphic design/marketing materials - flyers, brochures and business cards 4. Signwriting - your brand and message on your vehicles and shopfronts 5. Logo design - brand recognition 6. Photography - capturing the essence of your business and it's products With over six years of experience Digicooldesigns has worked with eBay, Agent Provocateur, Morcheeba, Lastminute.com, Hilton, Granta, Banana Republic and Saga. For a free consultation please call Kai Motta on: 07931914242 Or if you prefer to email: info@digicooldesigns.co.uk All work can be seen here at www.digicooldesigns.co.uk

Want to Recruit a Canterbury Christ Church Student?
Why not advertise your vacancies through the Canterbury Christ Church University JobShop. It is an easy-to-use web-based system, and once registered, you can simple list a vacancy as it arises.

The service is completely free and is designed to complement your existing recruitment process. In order to register with JobShop please follow the link www.canterbury.ac.uk/jobshop and select the employer section. Or telephone Hannah Greer on 01227 782260 for further information.

Dutch Language Beginners Course
The Transmanche Enterprise Network (TEN) Project has arranged for a 15 week beginners course studying Dutch. The course will be run each Thursday starting on 2 September 2010. All classes will be held at Canterbury City Council offices, Military Road , Canterbury and there are just 4 places remaining.

Each course will run between 1.30pm and 3pm and will include a light lunch and refreshments. All costs associated with the course will be funded by the TEN Project. If any Chamber member would like to attend please do not hesitate to contact Natalia Sukhram on 07766 253454 or email: Natalia.sukhram@canterbury.gov.uk

have Your Say with Damien Collins, MP
Chamber members and local businesses are invited to air their views with local MP Damian Collins at his first ‘Business’ Surgery being held on 3 September at Channel Chamber, Shearway Business Park, Folkestone.

This is your chance to say what you think of the proposed local regeneration plans, or maybe you have a particular issue you want to highlight with him !

To book an appointment with Damian on 3 September please email pitcherl@parliament.uk

The Challenges of Business in France and Belgium
If you are thinking of developing your business into France or Belgium or have French or Belgian clients or distributors please come along to this half-day interactive workshop on Tuesday 14 September 2010 at the University of Kent , Medway Campus

The workshop will cover topics such as contracts, partnerships, identifying your USP overseas, maintaining business overseas and cultural differences .After a networking lunch, representatives from UKTI, HSBC, Enterprise Europe Network and Zen Languages will be available for 1-2-1s. Please register for this event with estelle.timothy@medway.gov.uk or telephone 01634 331210

Thanet Groundwater and Industry Workshop
The Environment Agency is organising this FREE Workshop (10am – 4pm) at Pfizer Sports & Social Club, Sandwich on Wednesday 15 September to look at the problems surrounding our drinking water.

There is a heavy reliance on groundwater in this part of Kent for drinking and whilst it is treated and safe for drinking, this is not a long term solution. If the levels of pollution increase, treatment is unlikely to remain cost effective.

If you have an interest in this subject please email Lisa Beeching soonest as places are limited on lisa.beeching@environment-agency.gov.uk or telephone 01732 875057

Ecommerce Conference in East Kent
The first ever Ecommerce Conference is being held on Friday 5 November (10am to 4pm) at Pines Calyx, the award-winning Eco Conference Centre near Dover .

With experienced guest speakers from the world of eCommerce, this is an ideal opportunity to learn from those at the cutting edge of online retail. Subjects covered include strategies for success in mobile eCommerce; the role of social media marketing; essential information for online retail security; and how Kent 's 'secret' internet shoppers could improve your performance online.

Tickets are £95 + VAT including refreshments, lunch, a Champagne reception and a free shuttle to and from Dover Priory Station. To book your place please email alan@theicelab.co.uk

Internships for Folkestone Grammar School of Girls
The Folkestone Grammar School for Girls is seeking Internships for girls who wish to work wiIh Journalism in some capacity and who will be applying to read this at university . Placements are also being sought surrounding a variety of other subjects including law, library work, architecture, teaching, working with children, working with animals and retail .

These placements will be during either the Autumn term 2010, or Spring term 2011, and will be for 10hrs on Wednesdays. Local employers are needed to supply a supervised piece of work - maybe a piece of research, a marketing exercise, customer survey or other project you might not otherwise have the time to do.

For further details please telephone EBP Kent on 01843 609310 or email: anne.mcnulty@ebpkent.co.uk

The Insider

2010-08-03T16:39:00.002+01:00

Your views are needed

At Channel Chamber, we take the views of local businesses seriously. Our annual survey helps to provide us with a better understanding of the needs and expectations of both members and non-members in the current economic climate, and also helps to ensure our services remain relevant to the business community across East Kent .

The survey will take on average less than 10 minutes to complete.

Win Chamber Membership FREE for Three Months - All completed surveys submitted to us by 31 August 2010 will be automatically put into a draw and the winner will receive Chamber membership free for three months. You can of course enter your data anonymously if you wish.

Thank you for your cooperation. Your answers will not be released separately without your prior consent. If you have any questions or would prefer to complete a paper survey please call us on 01303 270022 or e-mail us at info@shepwaybc.co.uk

Survey (Link)

Business As Usual for Business Link, South East

Recent announcements from the Department for Business Innovation and Skills have confirmed a commitment to replacing Regional Development Agencies with local enterprise partnerships. This includes reviewing responsibility for business support. The Department has also explained that in the meantime Business Link will continue to offer support to local businesses in their areas.

Peter Green, Partnership Manager of Business Link in Kent, which is delivered by Serco, acknowledges that the business support landscape is under review but emphasises it remains 'business as usual' for all Business Link customers.

"We remain absolutely committed to delivering effective business support via the Business Link service in the region. We continue to provide advice and support services as well as events and on-line resources for all of our local business communities, and will work with SEEDA to implement any future policy changes as necessary."

Folkestone Racecourse

Arena Leisure, owners of Kent’s only racecourse are currently working on proposals to develop an all-year-round facility which will provide a significant increase in the number of permanent, race day and spin-off employment opportunities for business, leisure and tourism. They will also seek to improve the current on-site access arrangements for each of the Racecourse, Westenhanger train station and Westenhanger Castle

To help fund these proposals, an enabling development is also planned to include residential development supported by employment and community facilities.

Arena Leisure intends to keep local residents and the business community fully informed as the process moves forward and will be presenting development options at a Public Exhibition, most likely to be held in mid-September 2010. To be kept informed of events, please do not hesitate to contact racecourse@rpsgroup.com or visit the project website – www.folkestone-racecourse-consultation.co.uk

Launch of ‘Partner Finder’ online tool

A new FREE online tool has been launched designed to help find the right European partner for your business.

Thousands of the latest business opportunities are available from over 44 countries within this network. If you are looking to trade with Europe and want to find a commercial partner, a technology partner or a research partner, please contact www.enterpriseeurope-se.eu/partners

Online Business Support

BT have developed a web site for small businesses and entrepreneurs that provides a wealth of practical tips and resources across a number of business areas. Some of the key themes include how to boost productivity, keep customers happy and reduce costs.

This online resource is a great tool for members to access information and download guides on everything from day to day and long term planning for success, getting the best from suppliers and advice on marketing your business and increasing sales.

Please do visit the site at http://www.insight.bt.com/

Your Help is Needed

Enthusiastic Shepway-based employers are being sought by Pent Valley Technology College and the Marsh Academy to help with the design and delivery of the new Diploma IT programme. Throughout the next two years course students aged 14 – 16 years will be applying their practical ICT skills into business contexts and preparing themselves for the job market of the future.

Local employers and their staff are needed to become involved in a range of activities including work experience programmes and visits to the company premises.. Visits to the schools will also be encouraged using business scenarios that are based on the company’s’ history and performance or using standard business document as exemplars.

If you feel your business can support this new Diploma programme please contact Katy Tibbles at Katy.Tibbles@pent-valley.kent.sch.uk

Improving Speaking and Listening Skills -

This is a call to business who want to help Improve standards in secondary schools in Dover Canterbury and Thanet. Business volunteers are being sought to provide up to 6 x 2hr sessions in their local school. Free training is provided along with a CRB check if required.

A business breakfast in October for interested parties is planned and if you would like further details pleas contact Peter Gabriel at Roger.Gabriel@kent.gov.uk

EMPLOYER Law Update

Annual Leave

A recent European court decision has addressed the issue of the annual leave of an employee who converts their employment from a full time to a part time basis. In the recently reported decision of the European court in ZDL Tirols v. Land Tirol, the European Court has confirmed that a reduction of working hours when moving from full time to part time employment cannot reduce the right to annual leave that the worker had accumulated during the earlier period of full time employment. More

National Minimum Wage Rates

National Minimum Wage rates are to rise October 2010 with the minimum rate for workers aged 21 and over raising to £5.93 an hour. Also for the first time a minimum wage for apprentices has been set. More

Folkestone Quaterhouse –Autumn Season 2010

The Quarterhouse in Folkestone are delighted to present their autumn programme packed with a fantastic mix of top comedy acts, live music, theatre, family shows, free family workshops, films and the Folkestone Book Festival.

If you visit Quarterhouse to pick up a copy of their new brochure you can collect a wristband that will entitle you to 10% off tickets for any event in the autumn season and 10% off your bill from the Quarterhouse bar & restaurant.

Channel Chamber Breakfast at the Grand 11th August 2010

Our networking breakfast does "exactly what it says on the tin", it gives members and non-members an opportunity to network, to meet many other businesses in a relaxed, fun yet business environment.

We meet from 7.30am onwards for open networking, with breakfast being served at 8.00am, We have a ten-minute speaker slot, followed by a quick round the room introduction, there is never any pressure to give referrals or to speak in public if you don’t want to.

Good humoured and inclusive, and you are bound to feel at ease, and able to sell yourself and your business. Remember to bring your cards!! To avoid disappointment please contact Tracy Reynolds on 01303 270022 or email: info@channelchamber.co.uk

The Insider

2010-07-27T17:08:00.001+01:00

Local Employers Wanted
Enthusiastic local employers are being sought by Pent Valley Technology College and the Marsh Academy to help with the design and delivery of a new Diploma IT programme.

Throughout the next two years course students aged 14 – 16 years will be applying their practical ICT skills into business contexts and preparing themselves for the job market of the future.

Local employers and their staff are needed to become involved in a range of activities including work experience programmes and visits to the company premises.. Visits to the schools will also be encouraged using business scenarios that are based on the company’s’ history and performance or using standard business document as exemplars.

If you feel your business can support this new Diploma programme please contact Katy Tibbles at Katy.Tibbles@pent-valley.kent.sch.uk

Cultural Journeys: The Arts, Higher Education and great expectations?
University Centre Folkestone is hosting this free conference on and is inviting a host of organizations to attend including creative and performing arts practitioners, academics, tutors from schools and Further and Higher Education, and those interested in issues around regeneration, entrepreneurship, the arts and education.

Topics for discussion and debate include why and how the arts can regenerate communities, how art changes lives, the X Factor Generation and expectation management and the arts practitioner as entrepreneur.

Places are limited and any interested Chamber members are urged to book soonest at business.services@canterbury.ac.uk or ring 01227 782196.

Folkestone Quaterhouse –Autumn Season 2010
The Quarterhouse in Folkestone are delighted to present their autumn programme packed with a fantastic mix of top comedy acts, live music, theatre, family shows, free family workshops, films and the Folkestone Book Festival.

If you visit Quarterhouse to pick up a copy of their new brochure you can collect a wristband that will entitle you to 10% off tickets for any event in the autumn season and 10% off your bill from the Quarterhouse bar & restaurant.

Introducing 'Meet Smart' Conference Facilities
The Holiday Inn Express adjacent to the Channel Tunnel Terminal in Folkestone have launched their new conference facilities with four state of the art suites that can accommodate up to thirty delegates. These are perfect for training sessions, small events, networking functions, conferences, meetings, product launches, recruitment interviews and courses.

For further details please visit their website at www.hiexfolkestone.com

A Taste of Shepway this Summer
For details of activities, events and entertainment for all ages and interests this Summer in Shepway please visit - www.discoverfolkestone.co.uk

Channel Chamber Breakfast at the Grand 11th August 2010
Our networking breakfast does "exactly what it says on the tin", it gives members and non-members an opportunity to network, to meet many other businesses in a relaxed, fun yet business environment.

We meet from 7.30am onwards for open networking, with breakfast being served at 8.00am, We have a ten-minute speaker slot, followed by a quick round the room introduction, there is never any pressure to give referrals or to speak in public if you don’t want to.

Good humoured and inclusive, and you are bound to feel at ease, and able to sell yourself and your business. Remember to bring your cards!! To avoid disappointment please contact Tracy Reynolds on 01303 270022 or email info@channelchamber.co.uk

The Insider

2010-07-20T16:54:00.001+01:00

First onsite tour of the new Turner Contemporary Gallery

London 2012 Cultural Olympiad campaign ‘Discovering Places’ is being launched this coming weekend with a host of exciting, free public events throughout the South East, including the first opportunity to visit the building site of the new Turner Contemporary gallery in Margate.

Discovering Places aims to encourage communities to get out and explore the hidden gems on their doorstep, from historic castles to contemporary townscapes, woodland trails and local wildlife. Many of the Discovering Places events are run on a voluntary basis and all will offer free entry to anyone interested in discovering more about their local environment

The following Discovering Places events will take place in the South East over the weekend of 23-25 July. Full listings of the Discovering Places events can be found at: http://www.london2012.com/get-involved/upcoming-events/index.php

Labour Market Statistics

Our colleagues at the British Chambers of Commerce have been studying the latest quarterly figures and we’re told there are some welcome headline improvements, such as rising numbers of people in work and 34,000 fewer unemployed on the books. But these statistics mask some altogether more worrying trends:

Underemployment: recovery so far has been driven by part-time work. Nearly 1.1m people now report that they can only find part-time jobs, despite the fact that they’d rather be working full-time. This means that businesses will be more likely to turn to their existing labour forces as demand grows again - rather than create huge numbers of new jobs.

· Long-term unemployment: 32% of the unemployed have now been out of work for twelve months or more. If the Government expects businesses to hire these people, it will have to ensure they are ready to work – and that they are not ensnared by the sticky problem of the benefits trap.

· Earnings: while narrower, the gap between public-sector and private-sector pay awards is still there, and it’s still significant. The Chamber movement has made it clear to Ministers that it expects public-sector pay restraint as a part of wider austerity measures, and will continue to do so.

The Government’s economic projections for the next few years are based on very ambitious levels of business job creation. So the Chambers message to ministers is clear: the private sector will do its best to generate economic activity and jobs as the recovery continues. But business expects the Government to sweep away the barriers to growth – by investing in infrastructure, removing unnecessary regulation, and helping more companies trade overseas.

Win a Free Trip to the European Parliament

On the 14th October, over 700 entrepreneurs will descend on the European Parliament to put business at the top of the agenda.

The 2010 European Parliament of Enterprises (EPE) brings together 775 business men and women from across the European Union to debate and vote on hot business issues. Sitting in the Parliament’s hemicycle, will be national delegations from across the EU’s 27 member states. The British delegation will have the opportunity to take part in a Q & A with the BBC’s European correspondent, Gavin Hewitt and lunch with the UK ’s most senior official to the EU, Kim Darroch.

One lucky entrepreneur will have all their travel and accommodation covered by the BCC as all participants will be automatically entered into a prize draw

For further details, or to register, click here or contact Kieran O’Keeffe

Do you Want?

- 6 ways to get repeat visitors to your website

- Top tips for turning emails into sales

- Working from home - how to get more done

These tips and much more are offered in Business Link’s regular Online Newsletter. If you’re not receiving your copy simply email : info@businesslinksoutheast.net

Free online directory and mapping service for Kent based creative businesses

The ‘I Am Local’ mapping service at www.iamlocal.net provides a free online creative index and social network for artists, venues and organisations across the region. The organisation promotes the map as a live online resource that will continually grow and expand with new information and listings. In conjunction with its online site ‘I Am Local’ is distributed as a paper version at key venues throughout Kent , defining the growing network of arts culture both locally and nationally.’

Oriac House Learner Centre invites you to a series of Computer Skills Open Days

Whether you are already using a computer and various applications or whether you are a complete novice to computers and the internet, we have a training course for you. On Monday 19 July 2010,Tuesday 20 July 2010 and Wednesday 21 July 2010 you can come into the centre and sample the learning courses ABSOLUTELY FREE!

For anyone from 19-99 who doesn’t know how to use a computer or how to ‘surf the Net’ Oriac House Learner Centre in partnership with UK Online can give you access to free online courses and teach you how to use them FREE during the Open Days. For further information Phone: 01303 278418 email: training@oriac.co.uk

Channel Chamber Breakfast at the Grand 11th August 2010

Our networking breakfast does "exactly what it says on the tin", it gives members and non-members an opportunity to network, to meet many other businesses in a relaxed, fun yet business environment.

We meet from 7.30am onwards for open networking, with breakfast being served at 8.00am, We have a ten-minute speaker slot, followed by a quick round the room introduction, there is never any pressure to give referrals or to speak in public if you don’t want to.

Good humoured and inclusive, and you are bound to feel at ease, and able to sell yourself and your business. Remember to bring your cards!! To avoid disappointment please contact Tracy Reynolds on 01303 270022 or email info@channelchamber.co.uk

The Insider

2010-07-15T11:58:00.002+01:00

The UK ’s first Interactive Online Business Directory for Offshore Wind

The portal, Kentwindenergy.co.uk has now gone live and if you’re interested in doing business in one of the UK ’s fasteet growing sectors you are invited to sign on NOW for Free !

This interactive online business directory is dedicated to supporting the growth of the offshore wind industry in the Thames Estuary and southern North Sea and has been developed through the Backing Kent Business campaign and its Chamber partners – including Channel Chamber.

£1 Million Plus Investment at Port Lympne Wild Animal Park

News has reached us that Chamber member – Port Lympne Wild Life Animal Park is planning a massive investment in developing a new restaurant facility.

Open since the mid seventies this Park now attracts more than 220,000 visitors per annum. In addition to the rare and endangered species from around the world that visitors come to see, the Park has also developed a very successful wedding and banqueting business, built up at Port Lympne mansion with annual sales in excess of £500k.

The new restaurant facility will therefore add significant value to East Kent ’s foremost visitor attraction and Channel Chamber will be voicing its full support to Shepway’s planning team when the application is submitted later this month

New ‘Health for Work Adviceline’ for small businesses

For the UK ’s millions of small and medium-sized businesses, the impact of employee absence through illness can be huge. That’s why the free ‘Health for Work Adviceline’ has been created by the NHS. The adviceline provides small business owners and managers with the expert advice and support they need to help team members being affected by ill health.

f you’re losing working days because of employees with back pain and work-related mental health issues such as stress, anxiety and depression, this new NHS service could be invaluable.

Local Enterprise Partnerships

As SEEDA (the South East RDA) disappears it appears to be making way for more bottom-up economic development arrangements and your Chamber believes that business has a unique opportunity to set a stronger vision for local growth.

The timescale for these changes is short. and ahead of this summer’s Regional Growth White Paper, the British Chambers of Commerce (BCC) is wasting no time making it clear to ministers and civil servants that LEPs must have a narrow focus on private-sector growth – and that the local business community AND the BCC Accredited Chambers must sit at the very heart of strategy-setting and decision-making.

If you’re interested in these developments and want to play an active part in the emrging LEP plans please contact Peter Hobbs on 01303 270022 or email: peter.hobbs@channel.co.uk

Cultural Journeys: The Arts, Higher Education an Great Expectations?

On Friday 10 September (9.30am - 4.00pm) University Centre Folkestone is hosting this free event for creative and performing arts practitioners, academics, tutors from schools and Further and Higher Education, and those interested in issues around regeneration, entrepreneurship and the arts. Topics for discussion and debate include why and how the arts can regenerate communities, how art changes lives, the X Factor Generation and expectation management and the arts practitioner as entrepreneur.

Speakers, all experts in their field, are drawn from the arts, business and academic community.

Places are limited so BOOK NOW to avoid disappointment. For more details and to book a place, please contact business.services@canterbury.ac.uk or ring 01227 782196.

Army Fun Day

An ‘Army Assault Course’ fund raising day in aid of Rifles Charities – Care for casualties is being held at the Folkestone Invicta Football Ground on Saturday 31st July 2010. Any members wishing to take part will need to report to the grounds at 9am sharp for an ‘army style’ warm up!

The grounds will then be open to the public, who will be welcome to come & cheer the teams on, participate in the excitement and help raise more money for this very worthy charity (only registered teams will be able to take part in the assault course).

There will also be….

· Laser clay pigeon shooting

· A penalty shoot out

· A raffle – with some fantastic prizes kindly donated from local businesses.

· Refreshments & much, much more!

In order to ensure your place in this event we will need to have final names & numbers ASAP. The teams need to consist of 10 people (individuals must be 18 or over for insurance reasons). For further details please contact Rebecca King – rebecca.king@saga.co.uk or bexlk@btinternet.com

Lydd Airport Prepares to Fight Public Inquiry

The airport’s senior management team is now busy preparing to fight the public inquiry which has been called by the Government Office for the South East without Jonathan Gordon, their Managing Director who announced his resignation last week . After an overwhelming vote from Shepway District Council in March in favour of the two planning applications, the airport team are determined to continue with their long-term airline development plans based at Lydd.

The Insider

2010-06-28T15:52:00.002+01:00

Our New Chamber President - Damian Collins, MP for Folkestone and Hythe

I’m sure all Channel Chamber members and readers of this Insider bulletin will welcome the news that Damian Collins has been appointed as Channel Chamber President at a short lunchtime ceremony on Friday.

For the past 26 years this post has been held by Michael Howard and his recent retirement brought to a close a key period in the history of our Chamber. Now, as the official BCC Accredited Chamber for East Kent we have members of all sizes and in all sectors located in Shepway, Dover and Thanet districts. The Chamber serves these members by providing practical advice, networking facilities, education, funding and business support.

Damian has also agreed to hold a regular business clinic from September onwards – the first of its kind in the UK ! This will be held at the Chamber Offices in Folkestone on the first Friday of every month. As part of his commitment to support local businesses, and with the help of Channel Chamber he intends to invite businesses to meet him on a one-to-one basis and discuss any issues they may have.

New Member of the Energy and Climate Change Select Committee

Laura Sandys MP for South Thanet and Sandwich tells us that she has been elected onto the Energy and Climate Change Select Committee last week. She has been involved with many aspects of energy policy not least promoting Thanet’s role in the renewable sector which is a key development opportunity for Kent .

If Chamber members have any local issues they want to raise with her such as the flooding problems relating to Sandwich please telephone 07936 340184 or email: laura@sandys.org.uk

Demise of SEEDA

As you will have seen from last weeks Emergency Budget (section 1.89) Regional Development Agencies will be replaced by Local Enterprise Partnerships. While there are differing views on this subject, Chambers of Commerce across the south east region will be seizing the opportunity to help define a vision for their areas and will ensure that business is at the heart of future LEPs. This will be critical as different areas bid for investment from a new Regional Growth Fund, which is due to be detailed along with the Government’s policy on LEPs in a White Paper this summer.

Community Ministry Coordinator Role

St Saviour’s Community Centre in Folkestone is seeking to fill a full-time position to lead on a new initiative, aimed at increasing employment and making life better for residents in East Folkestone . Working with local job seekers and in partnership with Job Centre Plus and Channel Chamber, a community cafe and a range of other activities.

Full details and application pack are available from:David Grimwood, tel : 07960 369681 or by email to d.grimwood@zedakah.co.uk Application deadline is 5.00 p.m. on 23rd July. Interview date: 2nd August.

Special Deals for Senior Citizens

Port Lympne: The Aspinall Wild Animal Experience, is inviting senior citizens to enjoy its mansion & gardens with an exclusive special offer for June & July. Come and enjoy wildlife, horticulture, history and art for half the standard price!

For just £7.50 senior citizens will get admission to the park and tea and cake. For more information about this offer and the park please visit: http://www.aspinallfoundation.org/portlympne/ and visit the events page

Calling all Creative Businesses

The Media Tree Team in Maidstone is conducting a survey across the Creative Industries in Kent and has asked for support from relevant Chamber members and readers of our Insider Bulletin. Please take 5 minutes to fill out their questionnaire, which seeks your views on Media Tree.

Every completed response that includes contact details will be entered into a FREE prize draw to win two bottles of Biddenden sparkling wine. The deadline for responses is Friday 2 July.

Visit the survey here: http://www.surveymonkey.com/s/7B3NT3M

A date for your diary!

The Ramada Hotel, Dover are asking for Chamber members to support their Annual Charity Ball, which is scheduled to be held on Friday 24th September 2010 in the “Grand Marquee”.

The profit from this event will be going towards raising money for “Beyond The Moon”. This charity offers children suffering from a life-threatening disease and their families, the opportunity to spend valuable quality time together and enjoy a memorable, cost-free and carefree vacation in a child-friendly environment far from hospitals and daily treatment. Last year they raised just over £8,000 and are now aiming to raise £21,500, which would enable them to nominate Six local families.

For more information on Beyond The Moon please go to www.beyondthemoon.org

FREE BT Business Growth Club

This interactive business growth workshop will help you to drive new business, identify efficiencies and control your costs, through the effective use of IT & Communications.

Our partners at BT Business have many years experience of this and have been working with many local chambers across the UK, with 95% of all members attending events stating that it was a worthwhile use of their time.

We know, that for many, the integration of today's technologies is often seen as a mystic art. We hope to wipe away those myths, leaving you with a fresh clear understanding of new ideas that can help you to get the best out of your IT & Communication systems

Taking place on 7th July 10:30am - 1:30pm at the Courtstairs Country Club, Pegwell Road, Ramsgate CT11 OJE

This event is Free of Charge and spaces are limited, Lunch and refreshments included. To avoid dissapointment contact Tracy Reynolds on 01303 270022 or email info@channelchamber.co.uk

Welcome to New Chamber Members

We welcome our most recent members, for further details follow the link below http://www.shepwaybc.co.uk/search_directory.php

Cloudsys
Jagger Creative Communication LLP
Folkestone Harbour Company Ltd
Digicooldesigns
Folkestone Invicta F.C. Club

The Insider

2010-06-28T15:52:00.000+01:00

Further Lydd Airport Delays

The Government Office for the South East (GOSE) have postponed their decision on whether to allow the £25 million development of the airport until 30 June. This is a frustrating further delay following Shepway councillors approval of the plans at a seven-hour long meeting on 3 March. Since then GOSE has been considering whether to allow the plans or to call them in for a public inquiry.

Kevin's Blog
Following our successful ‘Business Leaders’ Breakfast at the Burlington Hotel last month sponsored by Kent County Council, Chamber members will be interested in the link below to the Head of Regeneration - Kevin Lynes’ Blog.

http://kevinlynes.wordpress.com/

May we remind Chamber members that all three Accredited Chambers in Kent are key members of the Backing Kent Business initiative and we are looking forward to driving an effective business support agenda for the year ahead which will feature a number of new and exciting initiatives.

New Online Business Directory for Wind Energy

Within the next few days a new interactive online business directory for offshore wind will be launched. www.kentwindenergy.co.uk will make it simpler for developers and operators to search and source their supply chain requirements and simple for Kent businesses who can supply those requirements to register. Search by category or company for services covering the project development, equipment design and manufacture, construction and operation.

If you are a business wanting to register for FREE or a company looking to procure a service – you’ll find it online at www.kentwindenergy.co.uk

Promoting Kent Apprenticeships

Kent County Council have recently transformed a bus to help sell the benefits of the Govt’s Apprenticeship scheme and Channel Chamber is hoping to book this for a day at their Offices in Folkestone and Ramsgate this summer.

Local companies will be most welcome to learn more about taking on a young person and the Apprenticeship scheme. For more details contact; http://www.kentapprenticeships.com/

Ashford Business2Business Exhibition 2010

Kent Invicta Chamber is holding their 24th annual Business to Business Exhibition tomorrow - Tuesday 22nd June at the Ashford International Hotel and all Channel Chamber members are very welcome to attend.
This year there will again be an extremely diverse range of businesses, offering a vast variety of products and services. I am sure that you will personally find a visit of interest, on both a business and personal level.

When was the last time you went into a Job Centre?

Businesses and organizations who currently work with the local community in Folkestone are being invited to a tour and information session at Folkestone Job Centre Plus on Friday 25 June. The tour is being held between 10.00am and 11.30am and is designed to give everyone an insight into all the services currently being offered to local unemployed people.

If you are interested in attending please contact Jenny Burrows at jenny.burrows@shepway.gov.uk or tel 01303 853331

Folkestone Seafront Exhibition

Large numbers of residents have already attended the series of presentations at the Quarterhouse in Tontine Street to hear all about the new approach for the development of Folkestone Seafront.

If you have missed these don’t despair ! There is a final presentation at the Quarterhouse scheduled for Saturday 26 June at 11am when you will also have an opportunity to visit the exhibition and contribute with ideas for the proposed public spaces.

Full details of these proposals are also provided at www.folkestoneseafront.com

Meet the Chamber President

We are delighted to inform you that Damian Collins, the new MP for Folkestone and Hythe has accepted our invitation to become the President of the Channel Chamber of Commerce. This follows Michael Howard's reign as our Chamber President for the past 26 years.

To celebrate the occasion an informal buffet lunch is being held here at the Chamber's meeting rooms at the Shepway Business Centre starting at 12:30 on Friday 25th June when prominent local business leaders will have an opportunity to meet Damien and ask him about his plans to support our business community.

Due to space limitations bookings for this event are being taken on a first-come-first-served basis and there are only ten spaces left, so I would urge you to let me know if you can join us as soon as possible. Please contact Sezen.zeki@channelchamber.co.uk or call 01303 270022

The Insider

2010-04-27T15:24:00.002+01:00

Open for Business in Thanet

To better serve our members in Thanet we are delighted to announce the opening of our new office at 161-165 High Street , Ramsgate. This allows us to be closer to the local business community and to provide an even more relevant and responsive service.
Channel Chamber is the only officially accredited Chamber in East Kent, providing a wealth of benefits and services for businesses from Margate to Dungeness. As part of the British Chambers of Commerce, we are proud to offer a level of support unrivalled by any other business support organisations.

Come and See us on Thursday 13th May

We are busy organising the first of our regular Open Days at the Ramsgate office on Thursday 13th May and ALL local businesses are most welcome to come along from 10am to 4pm. Plentiful free parking is available onsite.
Further details will be provided shortly but we can reveal that representatives from Business Link, Backing Kent Business and other local business support partners will all be present to make this one of the best-connected events in Thanet this Spring.
We will kick-start proceedings at 7.30am with a FREE Networking Breakfast when you will have the opportunity to meet fellow and prospective members and learn more about our plans for supporting local businesses in the year ahead.
Interested in coming along ? To book your place for Breakfast on 01843 589606 or email info@channelchamber.co.uk

Are You Ready to Tender?

Tuesday 18th May, 2010 , Kent International Hotel, Harbour Parade, Ramsgate, Kent

Channel Chamber of Commerce is holding a series of workshops to help small businesses qualify for big money contracts. The workshop is being sponsored by the British Standards Institute (BSI) and will be delivered by David Hall, Managing Director of Business Flow UK Limited, and is an introduction to the essential ISO standards.

Kent County Council's Strategic Procurement Manager - John Tunnicliff will also be taking you through the schedule of tenders suitable for SME's during the year ahead.

Andy Wilson Business Development Manager from the British Standards Institute (BSI) will be showing you the way forward, how to certify and the benefits to your business and a Business Link executive will offer practical help and expert advice on how to take full advantage of these opportunities for public sector procurement.

For more information or to book on, please contact Tracy Reynolds on 01303 270022 or telephone our Ramsgate office TODAY on 01843 589606.
Member Price: £15+VAT
Non-Member Price: £20+VAT

National Chamber Awards 2010 - Now Open for Entries!

Businesses across the UK are being urged to enter this year’s Chamber Awards and the chance to win a cash prize from a total of £50,000. Enter now at: www.chamberawards.co.uk
Early Bird closing date for a chance to win £250 worth of vouchers is May 28th.
The official closing date is June 25th.
To access their Twitter account http://twitter.com/ChamberAwards or link to the Chamber Awards website http://www.chamberawards.co.uk/2010/

Business Masterclass opportunity

Kent Business School is inviting Chamber members to a business Masterclass which will help identify the opportunities that exist for your business in the next decade. You will be able to easily digest concepts and frameworks that can be quickly applied and hear of fellow delegates business experiences.

The event takes place from 8am until 2.30pm on Thursday 27 May 2010 at Kent Business School , Canterbury . For further information please email J.Turpin@kent.ac.uk or telephone on 01227 824 068

Calling All New and Home working Businesses

Basepoint in conjunction with the Channel Chamber Of Commerce are holding an open networking evening on Thursday 29th April from 6-8pm at the Shearway Business Park , where new and homeworking businesses will have the opportunity to find out what services are available to them.
We need your feedback...Your invitation to let us know what you need in your business. For more information or to book a place, contact Lorraine Grover on 01303 298298

The Insider

2010-04-21T09:18:00.002+01:00

Hustings Breakfast

Local businesses enjoyed a hearty breakfast in Folkestone last Thursday at the Burlington Hotel before cross examining each of the five prospective parliamentary candidates for the Folkestone and Hythe constituency. Hosted jointly by Channel Chamber of Commerce and the Federation of Small Business, this ‘Hustings’ event was scheduled in advance of the ‘leaders’ TV debate that same evening but it proved no less interesting for the local businesses who represented a broad variety of different sectors. The Candidates – Lyn Beaumont (Lib Dem): Damian Collins(Conservative), Penny Kemp ( Green), Frank McKenna(UKIP) and Donald Worsley (Labour) answered a host of questions that were of concern to businesses - ranging from the problems surrounding bank lending to late payments and red tape. Local issues such as parking restrictions and railway station access also stimulated a heated debate but all the candidates unanimously agreed that the regeneration of the district would be one of their top priorities if they were elected.

BCC’s Monthly Business Survey – Have your say

The British Chambers of Commerce latest monthly Business Survey (MBS) will be open until the end of the Tuesday.. The survey will take only 2-3 minutes to complete and can be found here

Airport Decision delayed by Two Months

The general election means that we must wait another two months to find out whether the government will block the Lydd Airport extension. The council granted planning permission against officers' advice last month and this prompted communities secretary John Denham to intervene. Shepway's major applications and project manager Terry Ellames now tells us this deadline has now been extended until mid-June because the decision cannot be taken during the election period.

Local Student Discount

University Centre Folkestone are setting up a scheme whereby companies who can offer a discount to their students for their services/products are listed on the UCF website and actively promoted to students (currently around 250 and growing rapidly). The businesses can display a sticker in their window to indicate their participation in the scheme. So far 15 local businesses have already signed up, and more are welcome! http://www.ucf.ac.uk/student-discounts

See you at KENT 2020 VISION

The Channel Chamber Team looks forward to meeting you this Thursday at the Kent Showground for what promises to be the most popular networking evetn of the year. Don’ forget to call in to see us at stand number BS9 in the Business Support Zone during your Visit.

Luxury Serviced Accommodation in the heart of the Creative Quarter by our Chamber Sponsor

One of our Chamber members Quake provides self contained, fully furnished and serviced accommodation available to rent from £230 per week. There is a choice of a 3 bedroom cottage on the harbour with views across to France, or a newly renovated one-bedroom maisonette in the Old High Street with a secluded sunny roof terrace. Both properties are decorated and furnished to high standards. Discounts are available for longer lets depending on the level of service required. An additional discount of 10% is offered to all Chamber members. For more details and pictures go to www.stadecottagefolkestone.co.uk or email Rachel on stadecottage@btinternet.com

Are You Ready to Tender?

Tuesday 18th May, 2010 , Kent International Hotel, Harbour Parade, Ramsgate.

KentChannel Chamber of Commerce is holding a series of workshops to help small businesses qualify for big money contracts. The workshop is being sponsored by the British Standards Institute (BSI) and will be delivered by David Hall, Managing Director of Business Flow UK Limited, and is an introduction to the essential ISO standards. Kent County Council's Strategic Procurement Manager - John Tunnicliff will also be taking you through the schedule of tenders suitable for SME's during the year ahead. Andy Wilson Business Development Manager from the British Standards Institute (BSI) will be showing you the way forward, how to certify and the benefits to your business and a Business Link executive will offer practical help and expert advice on how to take full advantage of these opportunities for public sector procurement. For more information or to book on, please contact Tracy Reynolds on 01303 270022Member Price: £15+VATNon-Member Price: £20+VAT

2010-04-12T16:12:00.002+01:00

The Insider

The General Election

Business and the British Chambers of Commerce, have been centre-stage in the early days of the Election campaign. The push to reverse the employer NICs rise has gained ground as a number of high-profile chief executives lent their voices to the debate

We still need the help of our Chamber members, however, so don't forget to sign the petition and encourage others to do the same.

The voice of Chamber members was also heard last week as the first quarter results of the BCC Quarterly Economic Survey were released. Over 5,500 businesses took part - and their responses suggest that a weak recovery is indeed underway, but that it will need to be nurtured by both Ministers and the Bank of England in the weeks and months ahead. Although confidence is strengthening, businesses' investment intentions and cash flow positions remain extremely weak, suggesting that there's some way to go yet to embed the recovery

Your Chance to Grill the Candidates

This Free Hustings Breakfast event at the Burlington Hotel in Folkestone takes place this Thursday 15^th April, and is being hosted jointly by Channel Chamber and the FSB (Federation of Small Business).

Chaired by Clive Lawrence (journalist and ex BBC presenter) members will have a unique opportunity to question our local parliamentary candidates before finally deciding which way you vote in the General Election next month.

We have just a few places left, so if you are interested in joining us please email – sezen.zeki@channelchamber.co.uk

Plans for a new M20 junction at Ashford

Details of a key scheme to allow for major economic growth in the Ashford area by increasing capacity on the M20 through Kent have been published by Transport Minister Chris Mole.

The new junction on the M20 (10A – east of the existing Junction 10) will improve journey time reliability and safety for both long distance and local traffic on the M20, a key international route. It will also provide the increased capacity needed to unlock major development and investment in Ashford, including Government plans for 31,000 new homes and 28,000 new jobs in the area by 2031.

Following a public consultation by the Highways Agency, Transport Minister Chris Mole confirmed the planned improvements, to be one-third part funded by the Homes and Communities Agency, which include a roundabout over the M20, link roads and a new crossing for pedestrians and cyclists.

Subject to the completion of statutory processes and confirmation of value for money and funding, the new junction could be open for traffic in 2014/15.

Your help needed

The South East Chambers of Commerce is working with its partners to understand the level of activity and support given to your business in key areas of business support. This is to ensure that you have good access to this support and the services can be shaped to fit your business needs. Please help us by completing these snapshot surveys which will take less than a minute. Your reply will be treated in confidence, in accordance with the Market Research Society Code of Conduct.

To complete the surveys just click on the following links :

http://www.surveymonkey.com/s/6DH5TTP, for Export http://www.surveymonkey.com/s/622LVPS and for Business Advice

50 Difficult Questions

The Equality and Human Rights Commission (EHRC) has created a new publication designed especially for small businesses with no specialist equalities/employment law knowledge. This booklet entitled ’50 Difficult Questions’ will help you to answer simple questions, improve your equality practices and direct you to further help if necessary. Copies of this booklet will be available free at each of Channel Chamber’s forthcoming events.

Inspire Young People in Folkestone

Chamber members and businesses in Folkestone are being invited to support the next generation of entrepreneurs by coming along to the Quarterhouse (Tontine Street) on Wednesday 12^th May (4 – 5pm).

Attendees will be invited to pass on their knowledge, experience and enthusiasm as ‘mentors with 11-14 year olds who are doing their very first ‘Business Project’.

To find out more about this scheme, and enjoy a coffee and a cake, please telephone tracy.reynolds@channelchamber.co.uk

Luxury Serviced Accommodation in the heart of the Creative Quarter by our Chamber Sponsor

One of our Chamber members Quake provides self contained, fully furnished and serviced accommodation available to rent from £230 per week. There is a choice of a 3 bedroom cottage on the harbour with views to France, or a newly renovated one-bedroom maisonette in the Old High Street with a secluded sunny roof terrace. Both properties are decorated and furnished to high standards. Discounts are available for longer lets depending on the level of service required. An additional discount of 10% is offered to all Chamber members. For more details and pictures go to www.stadecottagefolkestone.co.uk or email Rachel on stadecottage@btinternet.com

Organic Vegetable Cookery Demonstration

Chamber member - Number Eleven in Folkestone have teamed up with Riverford Organic vegetables to bring you an exciting cookery demonstration on Tuesday 27^th April from 7.30pm to 9.30pm. Riverford are award winning organic vegetable growers and they run a box scheme in our area. A Riverford Cook, Mark Bader, will be demonstrating easy vegetable based meals using the best of this season's vegetables.

The price is £7.50 per head which includes your first glass of wine, with any profits going to charity. The evening will include sampling the delicious dishes that Mark will be preparing as well as having the chance to chat and hopefully get some useful recipe tips. For tickets please contact Douglas or Frances on 01303 259535 or e-mail info@numberelevenfolkestone.co.uk. Spaces are limited so book early to avoid disappointment.

FAMILY FUN DAY – This Friday

Families across Folkestone are being invited to a fantastic day of thrills and entertainment at the Folkestone Academy (10am – 4pm) this Friday. The event is being hosted by the Shepway Inspiring Communities Programme and the Channel Chamber team will be signing people up to our exciting digital mentoring project.

All Chamber members and their families coming along are guaranteed a great day out with an amazing range of activities including Bungee jumping, trampolining, climbing wall, music, competitions and lots more fun and games.

Are You Ready to Tender?

Tuesday 18th May, 2010 , Kent International Hotel, Harbour Parade, Ramsgate, Kent

Channel Chamber of Commerce is holding a series of workshops to help small businesses qualify for big money contracts. The workshop is being sponsored by the British Standards Institute (BSI) and will be delivered by David Hall, Managing Director of Business Flow UK Limited, and is an introduction to the essential ISO standards.

Kent County Council's Strategic Procurement Manager - John Tunnicliff will also be taking you through the schedule of tenders suitable for SME's during the year ahead.

Andy Wilson Business Development Manager from the British Standards Institute (BSI) will be showing you the way forward, how to certify and the benefits to your business and a Business Link executive will offer practical help and expert advice on how to take full advantage of these opportunities for public sector procurement.

For more information or to book on, please contact Tracy Reynolds on 01303 270022
Member Price: £15+VAT

Non-Member Price: £20+VAT

The insider

2010-03-31T15:27:00.005+01:00

Your Last Chance to Grill the Candidates

This Free Hustings Breakfast event at the Quality Burlington Hotel in Folkestone on Thursday 15th April, is being hosted jointly by Channel Chamber and the FSB (Federation of Small Business).

Chaired by Clive Lawrence (journalist and ex BBC presenter) this will give you a unique opportunity to question the four main local parliamentary candidates before finally deciding which way you vote in the forthcoming General Election.

Places are strictly limited, and on a first-come-first -served basis, so if you are interested in joining us please email – peter.hobbs@channelchamber.co.uk

Women’s Networking Lunch

G Casino, Westwood Cross are holding a women’s networking lunch on Thursday 15th April from 12.30pm-2.30pm in the Gallery restaurant. Come and enjoy a delicious 3 course set menu plus a glass of wine for only £12.50pp. The event will begin at 12.30pm for drinks followed by the sit down meal at 1.00pm. A glass of wine will be provided with dinner but there will be a bar serving soft drinks, teas/coffees, wine and spirits. (Tea/coffee & water will be complimentary pre-lunch).

Call Sherrill on 01843 579361 to book your place. You are welcome to bring guests just remember your photo ID for registration!

Luxury Serviced Accommodation in the heart of the Creative Quarter by our Chamber Sponsor

One of our Chamber members Quake provides self contained, fully furnished and serviced accommodation available to rent from £230 per week. There is a choice of a 3 bedroom cottage on the harbour with views across to France, or a newly renovated one-bedroom maisonette in the Old High Street with a secluded sunny roof terrace. Both properties are decorated and furnished to high standards. Discounts are available for longer lets depending on the level of service required. An additional discount of 10% is offered to all Chamber members. For more details and pictures go to www.stadecottagefolkestone.co.uk or email Rachel on stadecottage@btinternet.com

Snapshot Survey

Channel Chamber and other members of the British Chambers of Commerce in South East England are working with partners to understand the level of activity and support given to your business in key areas of Business Support. This is to ensure that you have good access to this support and the services can be shaped to fit your business needs.

Please help us by completing a snapshot survey which will take less than a minute. Your reply will be treated in confidence, in accordance with the Market Research Society Code of Conduct.

To complete the survey just click on the link below
Skills Snapshot Survey

Haven’t signed the NIC Petition yet?

Very disappointing that the previously-announced employer National Insurance rise remains in place after last week’s budget. However, there’s still time for you to sign the BCC petition against the NICs rise.

Free Family Fun Day

Another date for your diary - Friday 16th April, when families across Folkestone are being invited to a fantastic day of thrills and entertainment at the Folkestone Academy (10am – 4pm). This event is being hosted by the Shepway Inspiring Communities Programme and the Channel Chamber team will be signing people up to our exciting digital mentoring project.

All Chamber members and their families coming along are guaranteed a great day out with an amazing range of activities including Bungee jumping, trampolining, climbing wall, music, competitions and lots more fun and games.

New Chamber Finance Hotline

RBS and Natwest have launched a dedicated Chamber specific advice hotline, which is intended to provide impartial financial advice and is available to members regardless of who they bank with.
The phone number 0800 656 9634 is answered “Chamber Finance hotline” and has been solely created for the Accredited Chambers in the UK in order to assist their members in all matters relating to finance.

Chamber Business Choice Healthcare

All Channel Chamber members currently receive AXA PPP healthcare receive two free business services from AXA PPP Healthcare – Health at Hand and Personal Business Assistance. There are no catches or conditions to these services and they are enhancements to the standard Chamber package..

Health at Hand is an exclusive 24/7 service specially designed to provide expert information and peace of mind. The Health at Hand team includes healthcare professionals, such as nurses, midwives, pharmacists and counsellors, who are all experts in their field.

Personal Business Assistance enables members to maintain contact with customers, prospective clients or suppliers, if in hospital or suffering from health problems that prevent them from being accessible or able to communicate effectively.

With the ever increasing pressures of sickness absence on small companies, these two services provide a good level of health advice and support during those difficult times. If you want to find out more information on the Chamber Business Choice Healthcare then please contact Steve Hancock on 07964 502238 or stephen.hancock@axa-ppp.co.uk.
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Are Your Ready to Tender?

Tuesday 13th April, 2010 Ramada Hotel, Whitfield, Dover, Kent

Channel Chamber of Commerce is holding a series of workshops to help small businesses qualify for big money contracts. The workshop is being sponsored by the British Standards Institute (BSI) and will be delivered by David Hall, Managing Director of Business Flow UK Limited, and is an introduction to the essential ISO standards.
Kent County Council's Strategic Procurement Manager - John Tunnicliff will also be taking you through the schedule of tenders suitable for SME's during the year ahead.
Andy Wilson Business Development Manager from the British Standards Institute (BSI) will be showing you the way forward, how to certify and the benefits to your business and a Business Link executive will offer practical help and expert advice on how to take full advantage of these opportunities for public sector procurement.

For more information or to book on, please contact Tracy Reynolds on 01303 270022
Member Price: £15+VAT
Non-Member Price: £20+VAT

The Insider

2010-03-15T16:59:00.000Z

Quarterly Economic Survey
The latest QES fieldwork period comes to an end TODAY, 15th March.

Thank you to all Chamber members who have taken part so far, but we do need a few more of you to take a couple of minutes to complete the survey.

As ever, the British Chambers of Commerce will be taking the Q1 results to the Bank of England to discuss them ahead of their next interest rate decision.
Kent Excellence in Business Awards
The entry deadline is this Friday 19th March– please don’t miss this opportunity to raise the profile of your organisation and enhance its reputation by promoting the great work you have been doing over the last year.

KEiBA aims to recognise and reward excellence in Kent and Medway businesses of all sizes and across every sector - as well as individuals. Full details of how to enter the awards, entry criteria for each category and entry forms are available at www.keiba.co.uk

Ten Years Of Investment
Our congratulations to Chamber member, Boys & Maughan solicitors who have been presented with a 10 Year Award from Investors in People UK, in recognition of their continuous attainment of the Investors in People standard.

In receiving the award certificate Andrew Baker, Quality Partner at Boys & Maughan, remarked that “as an organisation that delivers knowledge on behalf of its clients, we have always invested heavily in our staff to enable them to convey their understanding in people-friendly way".

The Kent Quality Mark
Following a year of hard work, Chamber member, First Learners’ Nursery of Cheriton has been awarded the Kent Quality Mark. The Kent Quality mark is a quality improvement tool that builds upon the strong practice that already exists in the county and supports practitioners to improve their ‘children’ focused outcomes.

Kent Air Ambulance Anniversary Awards
The Kent Air Ambulance Trust is busy organising a high-profile Anniversary Awards evening on 8th May to mark their achievements and celebrate being operational in Kent for 20 years. Both KOS Media and Heart FM will be joint media partners for the project and the Awards ceremony that will be hosted by Hearts Neil Kefford at the Leas Cliff Hall, Folkestone.
There are six award categories – Sporting, Business, Youngest, Group/Club, Most Unique Fundraising and the Kent Air Ambulance Special Award – and KAAT are now seeking businesses in the county that will sponsor a category each. They are looking for a sponsorship sum of £600, which will include dinner at the event for the four finalists and a guest plus two representatives from the sponsoring company. This will also include the supply of the award/trophy for the chosen category.

If you are interested in being being involved in this exciting event please contact Lynn Hyder – Senior Fundraiser at lynnH@kaat.org.uk

Enjoy Les Miserables in Edinburgh on 22 April
The Aspinall Foundation has been made a beneficiary of a special Press evening performance of Les Miserables in Edinburgh on Thursday the 22nd April 2010. This gives friends and supporters of this Charity and theatre lovers the opportunity to help them while enjoying a splendid break in Edinburgh.

Howletts & Port Lympne Wild Animal Parks, are devoted to saving rare and endangered animals and returning them to protected areas in the wild including The Scottish Wild Cat. By selecting the Aspinall Charity Ticket you not only receive a free programme and interval drink but are making a £25 donation to this Charity.

To book tickets: http://www.uktickets.co.uk/event/lesmistour_edinburgh/offers/ or call 0871 789 1004 and quote “Aspinall Foundation”.

Employ a Graduate at a subsidised rate for three months
The University of Kent is now funded to pay Graduates £500 for three months. to work with local SME’S. Any Business interested would be required to top up the salary to at least the National Minimum Wage. For more information, guidance notes on applying and the application form, please visit their website at http://www.kent.ac.uk/enterprise/student_placement/graduateinternships.html

Grand Opening of the New Play Park
Chamber members and their guests are invited to the Grand Opening of the newly built play towers in the child’s play area at New Romney station on Saturday 20th March. Greeting at 11am with a short train ride at 11.30am the opening ceremony at 12.15pm will be accompanied by the music of the Hythe Town Band, concluding with a buffet lunch.

RSVP to Alison.chapman@rhdr.org

Employment Simplification Report
Employment regulations are the burden that businesses complain about most. It isn’t just the extra cost, but the constant tinkering and changes which are an issue.

The British Chambers of Commerce is publishing a report on Tuesday 16th March - Employment Law: Up to The Job?- which explains the common problems businesses face, and sets out practical measures for reform, not only within the law, but also within the tribunal system.

Luxury Serviced Accommodation in the heart of the Creative Quarter
This weeks Insider sponsor-Chamber member Quake provides self contained, fully furnished and serviced accommodation available to rent from £230 per week. There is a choice of a 3 bedroom cottage on the harbour with views across to France, or a newly renovated one-bedroom maisonette in the Old High Street with a secluded sunny roof terrace. Both properties are decorated and furnished to high standards. Discounts are available for longer lets depending on the level of service required. An additional discount of 10% is offered to all Chamber members. For more details and pictures go to www.stadecottagefolkestone.co.uk or email Rachel on stadecottage@btinternet.com

The Insider

2010-03-10T13:16:00.001Z

HEADLINE - Lydd Airport Planning Permission Granted

At Channel Chamber, we take the views of our members seriously. We don't rely on one-off polls to gauge their opinions, but go out and speak to them personally on a regular basis. We applaud those councillors who took the time to go out into their communities to discuss the issues that matter to them in relation to Lydd Airport’s planning application.

The rich wildlife and ecosystem of the Marsh is something we are all interested in protecting, and supporting opportunities for green jobs and eco-tourism for local people is also a priority for Channel Chamber. We listened carefully to all the experts who spoke to us about the potential impact of the Airport on our Marsh, and we are fully convinced that Lydd Airport and local wildlife will continue to co-habit successfully, and indeed flourish. Lydd Airport have gone above and beyond what is required to protect the local area, and we strongly urge the various groups such as the RSPB to work together with - not against - the Airport management team in the protection of our local environment.

The whole community can be proud of seeing the democratic process in action. We also feel great sadness that certain minority interest groups, who represent the views of only a handful of our community, seek to waste public money on challenging the carefully considered views of our elected Council. These bully-boy tactics are not only a challenge to our democratic process, but are based on incorrect information and self-interest. We are confident that they will fail.

The entire proceedings from last Wednesday’s meeting – including presentations by Channel Chamber and our former Chamber Manager, Caroline Chambers were recorded on video and can be viewed via the Channel Chamber Website: www.channelchamber.co.uk http://www.shepwaybc.co.uk/news.php

Say no to National Insurance Contributions (NICs) increase

Chamber members across the country are calling upon the Government to reverse the 1 percentage-point employer National Insurance Contributions (NICs) increase planned for April 2011.

Businesses know that it is imperative for the Government to begin the difficult job of repairing the public finances. But this NICs increase is a 'tax on jobs' - and will discourage companies of all sizes from taking on new staff at a critical point in our economic recovery.

The British Chambers of Commerce urge the Government to work with business groups to find alternative ways to close the UK's budget deficit - beginning with a credible plan to reduce inefficiency in public sector spending. Any Government has to realise that additional taxes on businesses, especially small- and medium-sized companies, must be a last resort, not an easy way forward.

The respected and independent Institute for Fiscal Studies has commented that 'employer [NI] contributions bear no relation to benefits provided under the NI scheme. These contributions are in effect simply a payroll tax'. From our perspective, further rises in NI mean fewer jobs, more people signing on, and a slower recovery for UK plc.

The NICs petition – can be found at www.no-nics-rise.co.uk

The case is clear. No NICs increase - no tax on jobs.

It’s Time to Ring Fence Your Energy Costs

Looking at the wholesale energy market price indices there appears to be substantial increases in energy costs forecasted in the next 2/3 years. By 2012/13 the kWh price could have risen well in excess of 50%, particularly in electricity.

This is going to have a significant impact on Chamber members’ businesses, at a time when you can least afford it. Especially when you are trying to trade out of a depressed market. Now is the time to start protecting yourselves against increased business costs by taking advantage of the FREE Chamber Energy Service for advice and action

For more information please contact Richard Webber on 0845 120 2410

Business Grants to improve environmental performance

Businesses are facing more and more regulations and increased pressure to reduce their environmental impact and cut greenhouse gas emissions. But “going green” isn’t just about helping the environment – it’s an opportunity to save money and boost profits by slashing energy bills, cutting waste, increasing productivity and improving efficiency.

Channel Chamber has identified Green Grants Machine. a free and easy-to-use funding search website with full details on the hundreds of grants, loans and other funds available to help UK businesses improve environmental performance. This funding can help to develop new eco-friendly products, install more efficient equipment, cut waste and much more – helping to protect the environment, but just as importantly helping businesses prosper

For further information please visit www.greengrantsmachine.co.uk website – and the other funding website www.j4bgrants.co.uk

Carbon Trust Offers Mentoring Sessions

The Carbon Trust is offering five businesspeople the chance to win a priceless mentoring session with their local Best Advice business guru on how to survive and thrive in 2010. The business gurus include: Ian Cheshire, Group CEO of Kingfisher and chairman of B&Q (London); Paul Stobart, MD Sage UK and Ireland (Tyne & Wear); Dawn Gibbins MBE, founder & CEO, Barefoot (Lancashire); Paul Thandi, CEO, NEC Group (Midlands); and Chris Harrop, Marketing Director, Marshalls (Yorkshire).

Click here to enter, but hurry - the competition closes Today.

Calling all budding artists

Have you ever dreamt of seeing your artwork prominently displayed for all to see? Well, thanks to Chamber member - Port Lympne Wild Animal Park, that dream can become a reality! The Wild Animal Park will hold a wildlife art exhibition over the Easter Break (2nd April-11th April). All budding artists are invited to enter for this fantastic opportunity; it doesn’t matter whether you do stunning sculptures or perfect pictures, all mediums will be considered.

The art exhibition week will commence with a preview evening on Thursday 1st April opened by Vic Reeves—a keen artist himself. Held in the Marquee at Port Lympne, the preview evening will be an excellent opportunity to view the dazzling exhibition pieces that have been submitted. The preview evening is free, but by invitation only. Entry to the exhibition is free to all paying visitors to the Park. A donation from all sales will go towards The Aspinall Foundation to aid their vital conservation work both at home in Kent at Howletts & Port Lympne Wild Animal Parks and abroad.

The INSIDER

2010-03-02T11:57:00.003Z

BREAKING NEWS - Michael Howard supports Lydd Airport's Planning Application

Earlier today Michael Howard announced his support for Lydd Airport's planning applications having successfully negotiated two exciting property protection schemes on behalf of local residents. The first scheme will offer protection, outside of any statutory obligations, to people who fear for the value of their properties as a result of the airport development. A new noise protection scheme will also offer local assistance with secondary glazing and/or double glazing.

The scene is now set for a momentous decision by Shepway District Councillors this Wednesday evening when they meet to determine the future of Lydd Airport and their £25 million expansion plans

Graduate Internship Scheme
Channel Chamber can testify to the success of the on-going ‘Business First’ graduate placement project from the two excellent young men we are currently employing as project managers. Chamber members will therefore be delighted to learn that more funding has now been secured by Canterbury Christ Church for a new Graduate Internship Scheme designed to support small businesses in this area..

To find out more about the Business First project and the Graduate Internship Scheme and how you can benefit from them, please contact Samia Abdiche on 01227 782093 or sam.abdiche@canterbury.ac.uk

Graduate Start-up businesses
For graduate entrepreneurs who want to start up their own businesses, Basepoint – operators of the Folkestone Enterprise Centre, on Shearway Business Park is offering six months’ FREE office rental to all graduates. Basepoint provide easy in, easy out agreements and have the latest technology and friendly staff to get you really rolling.

If you know of any graduates who may be interested please ask them to contact Lorraine Grover on 01303 298298

REMINDER - Take part in the UK’s Most Important Business Survey
Your responses to this quarter’s Quarterly Economic Survey will be crucial to shaping business policy during a hard-fought election campaign. We can’t win real policy changes without your responses we can’t win real policy changes – so we’d greatly appreciate your ongoing support.

ATTENTION – All Tourism and Hospitality Businesses
Owners, managers and key decision makers of tourism businesses are invited to

a FREE business advice and networking event on Tuesday 30th March at Godinton House and Gardens, Ashford (10.30am – 1.30pm)

Throughout the workshop you will develop an action plan for your business by hearing specific tourism advice as well as Business Link advisers sharing their experience and the

opportunities to improve your business in 2010 and beyond.

For more information or to book contact Daniel Humphreys on 023 8062 5499 or

dhumphreys@tourismse.com

For further information on local news and events in the tourism and hospitality sector please visit: www.discoverfolkestone.co.uk

The Quarterhouse, Folkestone’s Performing Arts and Business Centre – with restaurant
If you haven’t been along yet to this sensational venue why not do yourself a favour. During March they have a programme of great music and entertainment music all detailed

In the Hook – Folkestone’s Music Festival e-brochure

Get out and about to explore Folkestone's Creative Quarter with guided walks, Visit Kent's Big Day Out, exhibitions, book readings, music events and more. Enjoy!

In Memory of Rifleman Aldridge
Sadly, Folkestone Invicta’s match with Croydon was called off last week due to the very heavy rain beforehand and the tribute to Rifleman Aldridge was also postponed until a later date.

Please contact Lynn Woods (Lynn.Woods@adastra.com) about the rescheduled arrangements.

The Insider

2010-02-23T15:29:00.002Z

Take part in the UK’s Most Important Business Survey

It’s that time again: fieldwork for the Quarterly Economic Survey begins TODAY. Your responses this quarter will be crucial to shaping business policy during a hard-fought election campaign. We can’t win real policy changes without your responses we can’t win real policy changes – so we’d greatly appreciate your ongoing support.

In Memory of Rifleman Aldridge

This Saturday afternoon, Folkestone Invicta Football Club are inviting the local community to join them in observing a minute's silence before the match with Croydon Athletic in memory of Rifleman Aldridge. To precede this there will be a roll-call of organisations, businesses, schools and clubs in and around Folkestone who are represented on the day to pay their respects. The Club have agreed to waive the normal gate charge and allow free entry.

Three Parliamentary Candidates face Question Time

Folkestone and Hythe’s three parliamentary candidates have agreed to a spot of Question Time grilling from an invited audience at a Breakfast Forum in Elham, near Folkestone, on Friday 12 March.

This free event will take place at the Rose and Crown, Elham, from 8 to 9.30am. Places are limited to 30, and a breakfast buffet of bacon or sausage sandwiches will be served on arrival, If you are interested in attending this forum, please contact anne@employment-relations.co.uk, tel: 01303 840001 You are also invited to send questions in advance.

Key transport projects will deliver £85 billion benefit to UK economy

Prioritising thirteen crucial transport projects over the life of the next Parliament - twelve regional and one national - would bring the UK economic benefits worth a massive £85 billion, according to research by the British Chambers of Commerce (BCC).

Businesses from across the UK revealed the transport projects that they believe are essential to the future success and growth of their regional economies. The projects include:

London - Crossrail Cost: £15.9bn Benefit: £36bn
South East - M20 Operation Stack Cost: £48m Benefit: £75m
South West - A303/A358 Improvement Scheme Cost: £184m Benefit: £1.1bn
East of England- A14 Ellington to Fen Ditton Scheme Cost: £765m Benefit: £2bn
East Mids - A453 widening (M1 Jtn 24 to A52 Nottingham) Cost: £98m Benefit: £320m
West Mids - Birmingham Motorway Box Cost: £149m Benefit: £399m
Wales - M4 Relief Road Cost: £478m Benefit: £2.1bn
Yorkshire and the Humber - East Coast Mainline Cost: £606m Benefit: £1.7bn
North West - Manchester Hub Cost: £937m Benefit: £3.7bn
North East - A19 junction upgrades Cost: £171m Benefit: £707m
Scotland - Forth Replacement Bridge Cost: £1.4bn Benefit: £6bn
Northern Ireland - M1/Westlink Cost: £46m Benefit: £201m
National - 3rd Runway at Heathrow Cost: £9bn Benefit: £30.7bn

Despite pressure on the public finances, and the need for spending cuts to bring down the UK’s huge budget deficit, the Chambers argue that this powerful package of road, rail and airport improvements – chosen by Britain’s businesses - must be delivered over the next decade, with both the funding and political will to construct them guaranteed.

Number Eleven Supper Club – New Menu Tasting Evening

Our members, Number Eleven in Folkestone are holding a new menu tasting evening on Sunday 21st March. The evening will launch their Spring Menu, and will celebrate the new season using ingredients such as Romney Marsh lamb, mackerel, rabbit, purple sprouting broccoli and rhubarb. Douglas the chef will guide diners through 9 courses, explaining the ingredients and suppliers used. This is a unique opportunity find out more about the sourcing and inspiration behind the dishes and sounds superb value at only £50 per person, with wine and coffee.

Places are limited so please book early to avoid disappointment on 01303 259535 or obtain a 10% discount online at : info@numberelevenfolkestone.co.uk

Shadowing Days for SEEDA Executives

We are looking for a Chamber member in East Kent who would like to host a senior SEEDA member staff for two days during the next couple of months. This is a great opportunity for the appropriate company to share knowledge and experience with a senior Regional Development Agency executive and promote the unique characteristics of your own dynamic business.

Would you please contact Channel Chamber on 01303 270022 if you are interested and you will be fully briefed with details of the placement.

For further details of the Chamber's forthcoming events, please log on to

http://www.shepwaybc.co.uk/events.php

The Insider

2010-02-16T14:27:00.002Z

Minister for Transport meets Channel Chamber Members

This morning at Dover Priory Station Lord Adonis, the Minister for Transport accompanied by John Prescott and Lord Heseltine met with a small group of prominent Chamber members to hear their views about the Fast Rail service to London and how this could be the catalyst for reviving our local regeneration plans.

Channel Chamber, CEO was contacted by the Department of Transport last week to identify major local employers who could meet up with Lord Adonis and the following responded:

Dover Harbour Board, GSE Group, Holiday Extras, Veolia Water Southeast, Howletts Wild Life Park and London Ashford Airport.

Please keep an eye open this evening for the media coverage.

0% loan from the Carbon Trust

In the current economic climate every business needs to stay one step ahead. A 0% loan from the Carbon Trust could help Chamber members do just that. You can borrow between £3,000 and £500,000* (flexible to your business needs), interest free and unsecured. Applying is straightforward and with no arrangement fees, capital can even be accessed without denting cash flow.

Please feel free to visit http://www.britishchambers.org.uk/energysavinghub for additional information.

Charity concert for the Haiti Earthquake Appeal: Wednesday 17 February

This Charity concert taking place at The Quarterhouse (7pm), in Tontine Street Folkestone features exciting live performances by musicians from Folkestone and beyond. Tickets are £9 on the door (£8 adv) and bookings should be made directly via the box office on:01303 858500 www.quarterhouse.co.uk

The Marquis at Alkham - Michelin rated 'Rising Star'

Our congratulation go to Chamber member Charlie Lakin of The Marquis Restaurant who is one of only three chefs in England to be awarded a rising star in the 2010 Michelin Guide.

Sadly, due to the snow last Thursday our Networking Breakfast at the Marquis was cancelled but we have quickly rescheduled this event at the 200-year-old former village inn to Thursday 25 February.

We've just a few places left and if you want to be pampered at 7.30am in such delightful surroundings, please phone Tracy TODAY on 01303 270022.

For further information about the Marquis, to reserve a table or book accommodation, visit www.themarquisatalkham.co.uk or telephone 01304 873410 or email: info@themarquisatalkham.co.uk

New - Jersey service from Lydd Airport

For full details of the new service please visit here for further details

Sainsbury's Supermarket planning application in Hythe

News has just reached us that the Secretary of State has decided that any invention would not be justified and will allow Shepway District Council to proceed with this application.

March Events for your Diary:

Shepway Young Chef 2010 Competition

On the 3rd & 4th March the Rotary club of Folkestone together with Folkestone, Hythe & District Hotel & Catering Association (FHDHCA) will be holding the Shepway Young Chef 2010 competition held at Folkestone Academy and South Kent College respectively. This competition will culminate with a presentation dinner at The Kingsnorth Restaurant, South Kent College, Shornecliffe Road, Folkestone where Chamber members are invited to support this excellent youth project by bringing friends, partners/ spouses.

Tickets for the evening costs £16 per person for an excellent three course buffet dinner with coffee, plus an arrival drink with canapés Please email: daniel@castlewoodhotels.com if you wish to attend.

Are You Ready To Tender? ISO Workshops

The Channel Chamber Of Commerce is holding a number of workshops over the next three months to help small businesses qualify for big money contracts.

A series of three workshops are being sponsored by the British Standards Institute (BSI) and will be delivered by David Hall, Managing Director of Business Flow UK Ltd and are an introduction to the ISO standards.

Kent County Council's Strategic Procurement Manager - John Tunnicliff will also be taking you through the schedule of tenders suitable for SME's during the year ahead

Andy Wilson, Business Development Manager from the British Standards Institute (BSI) will be showing us the way forward and how to certify and the benefits to your business, and a Business Link executive will offer practical help and expert advice on how to take full advantage of these opportunities for public sector procurement.

Spaces are limited so early booking is recommended. Call Tracy on 01303 270022 or email info@channelchamber.co.uk

Dates & Venues:

Tuesday 16th March (8.00am - 10.30am) - Channel Chamber of Commerce, Folkestone

Tuesday 13th April (8.00am - 10.30am) - Ramada Hotel, Dover

Tuesday 18th May (8.00am - 10.30am) - Thanet - Venue TBC

Cost (including full English Breakfast) :

£15 +VAT Chamber members

£20 + VAT Non-members

Networking Breakfast - Holiday Inn Express, Kent International Airport 23rd March

As a bonus to Chamber members the Hotel is offering an introductory rate on the 22 March of £25.00 per room reduced from £59.95 Paul Etheridge, the General Manager will be hosting a drinks reception that evening in the bar from 7.30 - 9pm. For further details and booking please telephone Paul on 01843 820 250

The Insider

2010-02-10T13:59:00.001Z

Interested in a Graduate Placement?

Channel Chamber currently benefits from the employment of two young graduates –Aromal and Abbishek, who are helping us to deliver two separate business-related projects over the next few months. Their skills and expertise have already enabled us to make huge strides with our marketing programmes and, in return we are providing them with essential hands-on experience plus day-to-day contact with local business people at all levels.

We strongly recommend that Chamber members also consider taking advantage of a new graduate Internship scheme being launched by the University of Kent on Wednesday 10th February, at the Canterbury Innovation Centre on the University’s Canterbury Campus (5.30pm-7.30pm).

Up to 100 new graduate Internships are being offered to local business, all funded through the Higher Education Funding Council. The evening will feature presentations from companies currently engaged with the University of Kent. Cheese, wine and soft drinks will be provided in an informal setting along with plenty of opportunities for networking.

For more information please telephone 01227 827376 or book a place online www.kent.ac.uk/enterprise.

New Website Promotes Road Safety

A new website (www.kmscp.org) has been created by Folkestone-based Sagittarius Marketing aimed at changing people’s attitudes towards road safety in Kent. This follows four separate integrated campaigns they have helped design which drive home life-saving road safety messages to motorists across the region.

The website includes new educational areas on speed limits for different types of vehicles and also an interactive safety camera map showing every fixed camera location in the county.

Sagittarius Marketing will shortly be delivering a number of high-profile road safety campaigns starting with the Safety Cameras Save Lives campaign, which debunks the myths many people have about safety cameras.

For more information visit www.sagittarius-digital.com

Construction of New Strategic Main

A £1.4m scheme to build a new strategic main at St Mary’s Bay is being launched by Veolia Water. The work (involving 1.6km of pipeline) which is due to begin very shortly will improve security of supply in the area and is part of a wider upgrading of the mains network across Romney Marsh costing more than £33m.

Temporary traffic lights on the A259 at St Mary’s Bay will be needed to allow the work to be completed. An Enterprise helpline for enquiries on the work will be available tel: 0800 521660. The Veolia Water helpline is 0845 888 5 888.

Lydd Airport Corrections

Lydd Airport’s advertisement in the current edition of the Herald newspaper has shown some incorrect figures relating to future projections and they tell us that a correction will be published in the next edition.

The copy should have read: Research shows that the total revenue generated by visitors using the expanded airport would be £1.8 million each year for 300,000 passengers and £3.25 million for 500,000 passengers.

Grand Welcome to Robert Richardson

We have a new Manager at the Grand in Folkestone and Channel Chamber sends him our very best wishes on behalf of all his fellow Chamber members.

Robert Richardson has worked extensively throughout the hotel industry during the past twelve years and as part of his plans for 2010 he is focussing on Kent produce being served across his bars and restaurants, including the Keppels Bistro and Palm Court restaurant). Homemade scones and cakes, Chapel Down wines and Biddendens cider and apple juice are all being served and will complement a very busy ‘event’ programme being designed to attract locally-based customers in particular.

For further details of this programme including Art exhibitions, a bigger Charity Focus, Classic Car Rally, Real Ale & Wine tastings, Murder Mysteries, Theatre Shows, Wedding Fairs & Open Days please telephone Robert on 01303 222 222.

The Chamber Insider

2010-02-02T11:15:00.002Z

2010 Member Special Offer:

In partnership with Vital Software Limited, Channel Chamber is delighted to offer our members across East Kent ContactTracker - a powerful and cost-effective Customer Relationship Management (CRM) system from only £149.99 per license. ContactTracker CRM is now in use by Channel Chamber as our preferred system, and we are one of many organisations that are using this system to improve sales and marketing efforts, and enhance customer satisfaction and communication.

To find out more join us at our Networking Breakfast at the Marquis Restaurant, Alkham in 11th February when Roger Knight, Vital Software will tell you all about our exclusive, no obligation 7-day trial . Or contact Channel Chamber on 01303 270022

Business Support Awareness Survey

Chambers of Commerce across the South East England are working with other partners to identify the level of awareness of Business Support Services amongst businesses. This is to ensure that you have good access to this support and the services can be shaped to fit business needs. Please help us by completing this short survey which will take only a few minutes. Your replies will be treated in confidence, in accordance with the Market Research Society Code of Conduct.

Free IPod Touch to be Won

Everyone completing the survey can be entered into a prize draw for an iPod Touch. If you would like to be entered, simply complete the email address section at the end of the survey. Details entered for the prize draw will not be used for any other purpose. The closing date is noon on Friday 12th February.

To enter just click on this link: Chamber Business Support Survey

Corporate Open Day Burlington Hotel: Thursday 4th February

It's been a few years since Daniel Sangiuseppe and his staff last invited local businesses to view the Burlington’s conference, restaurant and bedroom facilities. Why not pop along and join them from 4pm to 9pm for an afternoon of networking and enjoy a cup of tea and some nibbles. As an extra incentive, attendees will be offered 10% off their first conference booking.

University of Kent free networking session: Wednesday 10th February

This event, called Strengthen Your Business, is free to attend and takes place over cheese and wine, from 17.30 to 19.30. A series of short presentations will demonstrate how companies can work in close partnership with the University, and tap into its extensive commercial knowledge and resources. Included will be testimonials from companies currently engaged with the University in commercial ventures. Speakers will also outline the opportunities for businesses to work with the University via government-funded projects, work placements, graduate recruitment and specialist initiatives such as the newly launched Digital Media Hub.

For more details or to book, call 01227 827376 or book online here.

London 2012 - Creative & Digital Opportunities: Tuesday 2nd March

Business Link and MediaTree are hosting this free workshop for creative businesses in Kent, to find out from the experts more about the latest opportunities. Taking place at the Maidstone Studios, Vitners Park, Maidstone, registration opens at 8.30am and the workshop is run from 9am to 4pm.

£2,500 to Take on an Apprentice

Over the next ten weeks the National Apprenticeship Service is providing £2,500 grants for employers of 16 and 17 year olds. This will enable employers to offer new Apprenticeship places and take on an unemployed 16 or 17 year old as a new apprentice immediately.The grant is in addition to the costs of training which are already met by the National Apprenticeship Service.

Small and medium sized employers in particular are being encouraged to take advantage over this new grant which will be paid in two instalments. £1,500 when the young person starts their Apprenticeship and A further £1,000 after 12 weeks. Both payments and the paperwork will be administered by South Kent College.

Find out more by contacting Loretta Izod on 01303 858419

The costs of workplace parking

Just when you thought it was safe to drive your car to work again, the Workplace Parking Levy (England) Regulations 2009 are set to make their entrance. Britain’s first workplace parking levy scheme is proposed soon for Nottingham and has been approved by Nottingham City Council. This will result in employers being charged for providing the benefit of enabling their employees to park their car at the workplace. The parking levy scheme in Nottingham will no doubt set a precedent for other cities across the country, once the operational practicalities and considerations have been observed and ironed out.

Five Ways to make the most of the Recovery

There will still be tough times ahead for most local businesses, but the Govt’s announcement of growth is a step in the right direction. To help your business benefit as the recovery advances, Business Link has compiled a useful guide on key areas, including:

Retaining and motivating your people.
Keeping costs under control.
Planning for growth.
Marketing.

Select this link to view the guide. Or contact Business Link at: 0845 600 9006

The Chamber Insider

2010-01-27T17:33:00.000Z

Maximise your Marketing & Sales: 11th February
07:30 - 09:30am the Marquis at Alkham.

At our Networking Breakfast next month Roger Knight from Vital Software will be presenting a new, exciting web-based Customer Management Relationship system that Channel Chamber is using to manage all communications with businesses across East Kent. Details of an exclusive member offer, including a no obligation 7 day trial of the software will be provided.

If you would like see just how useful this system can be to your business. join us on the 11th Feb and find out how you can save money and maximise your marketing solutions.

To secure your place, call Tracy Reynolds on 01303 270022

Full details of the product are also provided on the Channel Chamber website at www.channelchamber.co.uk

Shepway Careers Fair – Friday 5th Feb @Leas Cliff Hall

Channel Chamber is delighted to have been invited to take part in this year’s Careers Fair which takes place next Friday at the Leas Cliff Hall. The organisers Shepway Secondary Learning Partnership been successful in getting Jonathan Shaw (Minister for the South East) to open the proceedings and we understand that the response from local companies has been overwhelming with over 60 taking part and 1,400 secondary school students attending.

This is the second annual Careers Fair taking place in Folkestone and its aims are to encourage students to make more informed decisions about their career choices.It’s also an ideal opportunity for local employers and post-16 training providers to provide information regarding their organizations and the jobs on offer locally.

Chamber members are most welcome to pop in any time between 3pm and 6pm or you can obtain further information in advance from els.howard@gmail.com

Kent Chamber of Commerce Directory 2010/11 Edition

Don’t miss this red hot opportunity to showcase your business in the best local business to business directory around !

Advertising sales open for business from 1st February to the 5th March and you will shortly be invited by Kemps Publishing to promote yourself to the Kent Chamber network of over 2,500 local businesses.

Free Fraud Clinics – 4th & 23rd February

Richard Heasman, Forensic partner at award winning accountancy firm Reeves & Neylan, has partnered with Fraud Consultant Darren Jones to run two local clinics aimed at assisting companies who have been exposed to fraudulent activity.

Initial free one-to-one sessions are being held at Reeves & Neylan’s Cantebury Offices on 4th and 23rd February. For more information, or to book your place please contact Darren Jones on 01843 600960 or email: Darren.jones@fraudconsultant.co.uk
Problems in Accessing Bank Finance?
Along with other business support partners in Kent we are trying to gauge the level of interest in an event that addresses the problems that businesses have been facing in accessing bank finance

If any chamber member has been facing this challenge and is prepared to discuss these issues at such a forum, please register your interest by emailing

peter.hobbs@channelchamber.co.uk by 5th February.

There is a genuine desire amongst these business support partners to see whether there is anything we can do with our banking partners that will make it easier for Kent businesses to access finance, but we need to understand the issues more clearly.

Opportunity to Join the SEEDA Board

The Board of South East England Development Agency (SEEDA) will shortly be recruiting two new members and we have been asked to bring this to the attention of businesses in East Kent.

These two business spaces will be advertised on www.rdaboardappointments.com on the 7th February and if anyone is interested in obtaining further details please contact the recruitment search consultants, Gatenby Sanderson in the first instance.

BCC Annual Conference – Thursday 18th March

This year’s BCC Annual Conference, “Preparing for Change”, will be a departure from the usual format. This will be the last premier-league business conference before the general election – and that means Chambers of Commerce have a unique opportunity to get our policies across to the top levels of all three main political parties. So this year, our audience of policy makers and opinion formers will be by invitation only, and our speakers will include star movers and shakers like Lord Mandelson, the Rt Hon Ken Clarke MP, FTSE 100 chief executives, a member of the Bank of England's Monetary Policy Committee, and the always-colourful Lord Sugar.

The other big change this year will be the launch of BCC TV - our new web video coverage of the proceedings, live and direct from the British Academy of Film & Television Arts (BAFTA) in central London. Thanks to BCC TV, Chamber members will have a new way to access the conference – without the high costs of travel and accommodation at a time when businesses are working hard to get the economy going again. This year’s full proceedings will be available to all Chamber members throughout the UK and throughout the world for just £30. For more details please check out the dedicated website: http://www.bcc-preparingforchange.co.uk/

The Chamber Insider

2010-01-19T12:29:00.008Z

Gateway Get-Together -Monday 25 January

This free evening event designed for local start-up businesses is organised by Business Link in partnership with Channel Chamber of Commerce, SEEDA Coaching and Counterpoint Networking.

Taking place at Channel Chamber's meeting rooms, from 6.30pm to 8.30pm, food and refreshments are being served along with two 25 minute workshops:

7.00pm - Insurance for Start-Up Businesses
7.45pm - 7 Simple Steps to Great Local Online Marketing

No need to book, just turn up and enjoy a bit of informal networking! For further information: Call: 0845 600 9 006 or Email: info@businesslinkkent.co.uk

Kent Learning & Development Open Day - 10th February

The University of Kent is staging this Free networking session entitled 'Strengthen Your Business' the University's Canterbury campus on Wednesday, 10th February and cheese and wine will be served from 17.30 to 19.30.

During the evening, a series of short presentations will demonstrate how companies can work in close partnership with the University, and tap into its extensive commercial knowledge and resources. For more details or to book, please see the attached form, call us on 01227 827376

Early Warning of Tenders

We are delighted to give members an early warning of tenders that Kent County Council will shortly be inviting on behalf of public bodies across the south of England

For further details of these tenders please contact Kevin Harlock, Director of Commercial Services, Kent County Council Commercial Services on Tel: 01622 605352

Regional Airports are Good News of Local Economies

Developing regional airports helps to stimulate economies, creates jobs and boosts the living standards of local communities. That's the conclusion of new research into the valuable contribution of aviation to the UK economy produced by the Airport Operators Association.

As the general election approaches the aviation debate will intensify and the report contributes to that debate by assessing the industry's economic role, both directly and as a catalyst for the wider economy in terms of wealth creation and employment.
The report maintains that as a regional airport grows, it has positive impacts on the surrounding area in terms of connectivity, trade and investment. For more information about the AOA report, visit http://www.aoa.org.uk/

Direct Flights from Lydd to Jersey

Operated by CityJet, using a 50 seat Fokker aircraft, this new service will run from Lydd every Saturday between July 10th & September 11th this year. And to celebrate the launch of the new service, Lydd Airport is also providing free car parking for all those travelling on the Jersey flight in 2010.

With its easy access and fast, hassle-free check-in service, Lydd Airport offers a relaxed and friendly alternative to Gatwick for those who want to explore Jersey. This beautiful island has a wealth of attractions, from adventure parks and castles to superb shops, markets, cafes and restaurants.

Holidays and flights for both services can be booked through local travel agents, online at www.discoverjersey.com/lya or by telephone on 0844 415 6653.

Lydd Airport - What's all the fuss about ?

2010-01-14T09:13:00.001Z

Channel Chamber of Commerce has received an invitation from Lydd Airport managing director Jonathan Gordon to visit the site on the afternoon of their next Open evening – Thursday 18th February, specifically to give local businesses the opportunity to get a first-hand view of the environmental issues facing the airport’s planning application.
Jonathan tells the Chamber “There has been a tremendous amount of misinformation spread about the environmental issues here and I would urge anyone who has not visited the airport to come along and find out for themselves just what our investment proposals involve. By doing so they will see that our development plans are right for this airport and right for the people of Shepway.”
Channel Chamber is now inviting members and other local business people to the Airport Terminal - 3.30pm on Thursday 18th February when they will make a short inspection tour of the 'pebbled' area that appears to be the main stumbling block to both the Airport's expansion and the building of the new Nuclear Power Station.
The group will return to the Terminal within the hour for some refreshments and a short presentation from Jonathan Gordon. .
Phil Carter, chairman of the Shepway Economic Regeneration Partnership (SERP) forthrightly sums the situation up as a
“Its time to chose: The Pebbles and the leaches/newts OR the People and the jobs/economy/regeneration. If the small number of objectors to the airport, and possible power station plans, have their way on behalf of the pebbles and newts, I hope they can face the youngsters leaving local schools, and explain why there are no jobs or prospects enabling them to stay living on Romney Marsh".
Businesses wishing to attend should contact Peter Hobbs,CEO at Channel Chamber on 01303 270022.

The Chamber Insider

2010-01-13T15:39:00.004Z

Thanet EXHIBIZ @ G Casino, Westwood Cross – Tuesday 26th January

BOOK NOW to secure your place at this popular new-style networking event - designed to help local businesses beat the recession blues ! At just £20 it’s a fantastic bargain and will help kick-start your marketing and sales efforts for the year ahead.

For further details and booking, please contact Tracy Reynolds on 01303 270022 or email info@channelchamber.co.uk

Lydd Airport – What’s the Problem?

We have received an invitation from Lydd Airport managing director Jonathan Gordon to visit the site on the afternoon of their next Open evening – Thursday 18th February, specifically to give local businesses the opportunity to get a first-hand view of the environmental issues facing the airport’s planning application.

Jonathan tells us “There has been a tremendous amount of misinformation spread about the environmental issues here and I would urge anyone who has not visited the airport to come along and find out for themselves just what our investment proposals involve. By doing so they will see that our development plans are right for this airport and right for the people of Shepway.”

Channel Chamber will shortly be sending out invitations to all members who have already expressed an interest in the Airport’s development plans but if any other business wish to join us for a short visit starting at 3.30pm please contact Peter Hobbs on 01303 270022 or email: peter.hobbs@channelchamber.co.uk

Good For Business Breakfast – Monday 1st February

KATO are organising this business breakfast seminar event aimed at employers with the potential to employ new apprentices or convert existing staff. Taking place on Monday 1st February between 7.45am and 10am at Oakwood House, Oakwood Oark, Maidstone. Register online at : http://www.kato-training.com/event.php

Open Day - Burlington Hotel – Thursday 4th February

Fellow Chamber members are cordially invited to the Burlington Hotel, Folkestone for their 2010 open day - an afternoon of networking together with a cup of tea and some nibbles (4pm – 9pm). Visitors will also be encouraged to inspect the Hotel’s conference, restaurant and bedroom facilities.

Ample on and off site free parking is available and, as an incentive all attendees are being offered a generous 10% discount on their first conference booking.

To confirm your attendance email: janice.whatton@castlewoodhotels.com

Exclusive CRM System

In partnership with Vital Software Limited, Channel Chamber is delighted to offer businesses across East Kent ContactTracker - a powerful and cost-effective Customer Relationship Management (CRM) system from only £149.99 per licence.

ContactTracker is now in use by Channel Chamber as our preferred system, and we are one of many organisations that are using this system to improve sales and marketing efforts, and enhance customer satisfaction and communication.

· Easy-to-use interface requiring minimal training

· Web-based service, with no installation required

· Effectively manage your customer relationships

· Identify and convert sales opportunities

· Closely monitor business activities, sales pipelines, and forecasts

· Improve and track the success of direct marketing campaigns

· Easily manage targeted bulk mailings, bulk emails and SMS

· Totally secure - your data is backed-up and protected

To find out more join us at the THANET EXHIBIZ on Tuesday 26th January at G Casino, Broadstairs when Roger Knight, Vital Software will tell you all about our exclusive, no obligation 7-day trial.

The Chamber Insider

2009-12-23T13:47:00.001Z

Business Survey Needs You

A plethora of economic data was released last week. Inflation rose by more than expected, unemployment figures did not rise by as much as expected, and retail sales were disappointing. The British Chambers of Commerce’s reaction to all of these statistics pointed to the underlying weaknesses within the economy, such as poor access to finance and an over-reliance on the public sector.
As ever, the BCC would like to contribute to the economic debate with real authority. To do this, they need Chamber members’ views. If you have a moment before you break for Christmas please complete the Monthly Business Survey. .

Veolia Water Southeast Wins Gold

Our congratulations go to local utilities company, Veolia Water Southeast who has carried off a top Gold Award in the Considerate Contractor Scheme run by Kent County Council and Medway Council. The Awards are given for high standards of workmanship on the roads and pavements to contractors who operate in a safe, consistent and considerate manner.

This is the third award with a safety theme that Veolia has won this year and follows on from top national awards made by the Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents (RoSPA) and the British Safety Council.

Kent Excellence in Business Awards 2010

The KEIBA 2010 is now open for entries and this is a great opportunity to demonstrate how Chamber members have successfully overcome the challenges of the last 12 months. Awards are one of the most powerful and cost-effective marketing tools.

Winning a prestigious KEiBA category will help your organisation to stand out from the crowd, send a positive message to your existing customers and attract new business. Full details on how to enter are available on www.keiba.co.uk

Workshop Programmes for 2010

Channel Chamber Training’s series of one-day workshops has been designed to give Chamber members’ and their staff a range of practical tools and techniques to increase business performance and help you survive.

A list of these Workshops is provided below. We do have a very flexible approach to training so if any of these dates don’t suit you, please contact us and lets see what we can sort out:

Guerrilla Marketing (25 Feb) Turbocharge your marketing, Learn how to increase market share on a limited budget.

Do Unto Others - Managing Customer Service (16 Mar) This is a great workshop for those working or managing a customer facing team and want to improve delivery standards.

Maximise & Nurture - Appraisals & Job Descriptions (31 Mar) This workshop will highlight a number of approaches and a wealth of techniques and tactics to ensure that the appraisal process becomes more structured, productive and positive.

Innovate to Survive- (15 April) Use innovation as a tool to grow your business. This workshop will help you discover that not only can you increase your creative options but also encourage truly innovative solutions to emerge, benefiting you, your team and your company.

The Workplace is Stressful - How to Manage It (29 April) How to enjoy a happier and healthier workforce. Manage stress in your workplace and comply with current legislation.

The cost per workshop is just £155 for chamber members and staff (non members cost £190.00). Workshops start at 09.15 and finish at 16.30, this includes tea/coffee and a buffet lunch.

The Workshop venue, Shearway Business Park in Folkestone is adjacent to Junction 13 on the M20 where free parking is available.

For further details please call Susan Filby on 01303 270022 or email: susan.filby@channelchambertraining.co.uk

The Chamber Insider

2009-12-02T12:22:00.001Z

Promoting Folkestone in London: Monday 14 December!

Following news about the pre-Christmas poster advertising campaign in London we have now spotted on the Council’s website that they are organizing a promotional day at St Pancras Station on Monday 14 December.

Robert Bliss and fellow district councilors will be travelling up on the High Speed 1service to promote the advantages of moving to the Channel Coast and talk to commuters.

It has already been suggested to the Chamber that we also need a more effective local campaign to make local residents more aware of the fantastic service now being offered to them.

What do you think ? Have you any ideas on what else needs to be done? Post your thoughts on the SERP Blog today ! www.regenerateshepway.wordpress.com

Becoming a Young Enterprise volunteer
Members will already be familiar with the Young Enterprise scheme and we are delighted to introduce you to Rachael Fagg, their Development Manager who is now responsible for YE in East Kent.

You will no doubt meet her at forthcoming Chamber networking events but, in the meantime we would like to encourage Chamber members to become one of their Business volunteers. No previous experience or expert knowledge is required, other than individual experience of work, business and enthusiasm to work with young people. Business volunteers act as role models from the world of work. They work alongside teachers with specifically designed Young Enterprise programmes and each has a volunteer pack containing information on the programme and how to present/facilitate it as well as support from Young Enterprise on hand if needed.

By getting involved you can make a real difference to the aspirations and potential of young people in the community helping to encourage creativity, build their confidence, life and future employment skills, as well as gain satisfaction by investing time, skills and knowledge for the benefit of a new generation.

If you are interested please contact Rachael on 077028877997 or email: Rachael.fagg@yese.org.uk

Christmas in Folkestone, Hythe and Romney Marsh
For details of all the Christmas festivities in Folkestone contact FTCM Ltd on 01303 850522 or visit www.discoverfolkestone.co.uk for many more Christmas events in Folkestone, Hythe & Romney Marsh.

Christmas Lunch with the Chamber President – Places still available!
On Friday 11th December at the Mercure Hythe Imperial both Michael and Sandra Howard will be joining Chamber members and their staff for a fabulous three-course lunch, wine, coffee, mince pies, Christmas carols, a charity raffle and a host of entertainment.

Book individually from £29.50 (per member). Or to book a table telephone Tracy Reynolds on 01303 270022.

Raffle prizes donated so far:

· Bottle of wine - First Learners Nursery

· Cream Tea for Two – The Grand

· Bed & Breakfast Voucher – The Marquis of Alkham

· Aromatherapy facial – The Mercure Hythe Imperial

· A1 poster of The Specials "Ghost Town" – Picture This

· 8 x A5 postcards of 2-Tone designs www.2toneposters.co.uk – Picture This

· Family Ticket for Four – Romney, Hythe & Dymchurch Railway

· Hologram paperweight – Benham Covers Ltd

· Two Bottles of Moët Champagne - Girling Solicitors

· A Meal for Two – No 11 Restaurant

· A Luxury Marylebone Food Hamper – Christchurch Nursery School

Have a great time AND raise funds for local charities
With more than £25,000 raised for local charities this year, the London Beach Country Hotel and Spa is pleased to announce that it is introducing a special “Christmas Party Lunch Charitable Offer”. The Charitable Christmas Party Lunches will run from December 1st to 31st and will require pre-booking with a minimum of six guests. The total food bill will be donated to the charity of choice, which has to be stipulated at the time of booking.

Pierre Edmonds, the Hotel Manager is hoping that businesses and their guests will be able to fully enjoy the Christmas festivities while at the same time knowing that the total value of their Christmas lunch will go to support their favoured local charity.

For further details contact Pierre on 01580 766279

An Offer from our Insider Sponsor McCabe Ford Williams
Free 2 hour meeting offer until 22 December 2009 to discuss how MFW could reduce your tax liabilities or accountancy fees,

Call John Shipley now on 01304 204006.

Here are some useful tips for fellow members in the lead up to Christmas from our Chairman, Ray Johnson. Please don’t hesitate to let us know if you’re doing anything unusual that you are happy to share with other local businesses.

Ask staff for ideas – they know what they want so why not follow it

You could consider a buffet/takeout in the office instead of a meal – much cheaper than going out

Why not share an event with another company

Get your own DJ – maybe a member of staff! Or everyone could contribute with their ipod!

With all the stuff on the TV at the moment, why not do your own ‘Strictly’ or X Factor’ for a laugh

Organise a secret Santa - good fun and staff contribute between £5 - £10 each

Get staff to enter the local Santa Fun Run event, dress up in Santa costumes and run for charity. Great fun, good for team morale and, for your health!

Why not donate a prize to a local charity Christmas raffle

The Chamber Insider

2009-11-25T10:08:00.002Z

Folkestone – An hour way from London

If you’re visiting London before Christmas take a look at the poster campaign advertising Folkestone at both Kings Cross and St Pancras Station. Thanks to Shepway District Council these images are currently selling Folkestone as under an hour away from London on the new High Speed 1 service. It’s important that the benefits the High Speed 1 service will bring to our town are highlighted and that we promote all the good things Folkestone has to offer not only to visitors but those who might choose to make their home here now that commuting times to the capital is under an hour. What do you think of these posters? Have you any ideas on what else needs to be done ? Post your thoughts on the SERP Blog today! http://regenerateshepway.wordpress.com/

Businesses report worsening access to finance situation

Access to finance remains a serious problem for British businesses, despite the Bank of England pumping £200 billion into the economy to boost money supply and stimulate lending.In the latest Monthly Business Survey, published by the British Chambers of Commerce, 33% of companies reported that accessing finance had been more difficult over the last three months. This compares with the same question asked in June, when 20% of businesses believed access to finance had worsened.

Furthermore, the number of firms reporting an improved access to finance situation fell – dropping from 6% in June, to just 3% in the latest survey. Despite the results pointing towards continued lending constraints, of the 400 businesses questioned, 64% said that their biggest barrier to growth over the next 12 months was a lack of customer demand. The Chamber network is pushing for The Pre-Budget Report on December 9th to include measures that encourage companies to invest and improve confidence.
Do you agree with these findings? Is this the situation in East Kent ?
Post your comments on the SERP Blog today ! http://regenerateshepway.wordpress.com/

Kent 2020 – Join Kent’s Networking Wall At the launch of Business Link’s Kent 2020,

Chamber members and other attendees were invited to enter their contact details onto a magnificent ‘Networking Wall’ that will be displayed at the event on Thursday 22nd April at the Kent Showground, Detling.
All these contacts can now be viewed by visiting www.kent2020.co.uk/networkingwall

During the next five months, at each of our networking events, Channel Chamber will be encouraging members and their guests to complete a card so that their details can be added to this ‘Networking Wall’ online. There’s also an opportunity online to view Lord Digby’s speech and a short clip of the launch event, please visit www.kent2020.co.uk/launch 2010 Business Rate revaluation

The government has announced further details of the post-2012 Revaluation business rate framework, which can be found at:

http://www.communities.gov.uk/documents/localgovernment/pdf/1384557.pdf

As a result of the new multiplier, businesses will pay 41.4p in the pound for large premises and 40.7p in the pound for 2010/11. Following a consultation the government has also decided to try and protect businesses from large upfront increases through a self-funded, five year transitional scheme, under which rate increases will be capped at five per cent for small premises and 12.5 per cent for large.

Christmas Lunch with the Chamber President – Places still available!

On Friday 11th December at the Mercure Hythe Imperial both Michael and Sandra Howard will be joining Chamber members and their staff for a fabulous three-course lunch, wine, coffee, mince pies, Christmas carols, a charity raffle and a host of entertainment.
Book individually from £29.50 (per member). Or to book a table telephone Tracy Reynolds on 01303 270022.

An Offer from our Insider Sponsor McCabe Ford Williams

Free 2 hour meeting offer until 22 December 2009 to discuss how MFW could reduce your tax liabilities or accountancy fees,
Call John Shipley now on 01304 204006.

The Chamber Insider

2009-11-19T14:48:00.001Z

Its Off? Its On?

Last week’s announcement from the Energy Minister that Dungeness was not on the short-list of potential new nuclear power stations came as a bitter blow to us all but, within 24hrs we were being reassured by the Prime Minister himself that all was not lost.

Channel Chamber and its partner, SERP (Shepway Economic Regeneration Partnership) simply cannot accept that plans for Dungeness should be scrapped and we will be carefully studying the reasons given by Govt before we embark upon a strong lobbying campaign.

Please use the SERP Blog http://regenerateshepway.wordpress.com/ to share your views on this subject.

Kent Transport Summit: Keeping Kent Moving

At Westminster last Tuesday, a group of 50 industry leaders, transport operators, locally affected businesses and the public sector put forward a powerful argument to press for solutions to Kent's transport challenges.
A report of this meeting will be circulated shortly to Chamber members and this will be used to continue to press Kent’s case with government for solutions to Operation Stack and improved transport connections with the rest of the UK.
More information about the “Enough is Enough” transport campaign can be found at www.kent.gov.uk/enough

Dreamland Resurrected

There has been some great news this week for Margate and it's Dreamland site. It has been awarded £3.7m from the Heritage Lottery Fund for the development of a vintage theme park. Further details are provided within the BBC ‘s web report:

http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/england/kent/8361781.stm

High Speed, High Time: the business case for high-speed rail

The British Chambers of Commerce along with the Chamber Network launching its high-speed rail report highlights the business case for faster journey times and additional capacity. In particular, it calls for a binding agreement from the main political parties to agree a funding mechanism for new lines - while also calling on the parties to maintain the work of HS2 Ltd - the Government’s high-speed rail development company. Crucially the report makes clear that the business community demands a UK-wide network, reaching both North-South and East-West if the full benefits of new high-speed lines are to be truly realised.
Copies of the BCC report will be posted on Channel Chamber’s Website:

30th Anniversary for Edwards Harvey

One of the county’s leading PR and marketing agencies Edwards Harvey is celebrating its 30th Anniversary. With a portfolio ranging from multinational and blue chip companies to regional and local businesses, they are particularly proud of their 30-year relationship with Shepherd Neame, Britain’s oldest brewer and the work they are currently doing with fellow chamber members, Lydd Airport.

Kidzplanet is not only playtastik it’s now toytastik!

Our member, Kidz Planet has opened a new toy shop inside their playcentre, Caesers Way, Cheriton. The shop named Toytastik opened last Saturday and carries some 180 lines. For a limited period only, as an incentive to entice customers in, all non-branded items are “buy one, get one half price”.

Also, Santa will be visiting the playcentre again this year on Friday 4th December, please call to book your slot (limited availability). Kidz Planet can be found in Caesars Way, Cheriton. Tel: 01303 277773

Christmas Lunch with the Chamber President

On Friday 11th December at the Mercure Hythe Imperial both Michael and Sandra Howard will be joining Chamber members and their staff for a fabulous three-course lunch, wine, coffee, mince pies, Christmas carols, a charity raffle and a host of entertainment.

A table for eight costs only £225 or you can simply book individually from £29.50 (per member). Don’t delay, telephone Tracy Reynolds on 01303 270022.

The Chamber Insider

2009-11-12T11:56:00.003Z

Ecommerce in Kent Award - Sponsored by the Ice Lab

After months of public voting online six finalists made it through to the final judging stage of the ECommerce in Kent Award – sponsored by the Ice Lab Ltd. The Judging Panel met last Friday and as a result of their deliberations the winner of the 2009 Award for the best shopping cart site based (or created) in Kent was duly announced at the Ice Lab's annual champagne reception held in Northbourne. Our congratulations go to the winner - www.ecorium.co.uk

Global Entrepreneurship Week is on the way!

Global Entrepreneurship Week tales place from 16 – 22 November 2009. It is a worldwide movement of entrepreneurial people with millions unleashing their enterprising talents and turning their ideas into a reality. Find out more at:http://www.gew.org.uk/

Business Growth Club Workshop

Channel Chamber’s first Business Growth Club Workshop is being held next Monday 16th November at our offices on Shearway Business Park, Folkestone, focusing on Information & Communications Technology - don't miss out ! This FREE workshop will give you direct access to industry experts from BT and will bring you together with a select group of businessmen and women to help sharpen your focus even further. You will be part of an open forum so you can talk about real issues and help shape the content to make sure it’s relevant to you and your business. There are only a few places left so, don’t delay, book today by calling Sezen Zeki on 01303 270022 or email: sezen.zeki@channelchamber.co.ukBusiness

Networking Breakfast at Sandwich

‘Adding Value’ is the theme of the business networking breakfast organised by our partners at the Thanet & East Kent Chamber, taking place at the Pfizer Social Club, Sandwich on Tuesday 24 November (7.30am – 9am). Delegates will be treated to a series of two-minute presentations by experts in sales, marketing, business planning, waste reduction and a range of topics all designed to boost your turnover or reduce your costs. There will be an opportunity to book a free consultation with any of the expert speakers. Enjoy an English breakfast and the opportunity to promote your goods or services to fellow delegates. Cost: Chamber members: £12.00, non-members: £15.00. For details, email admin@tekc.co.uk with the subject line

“Business Breakfast 24th November 2009” Performance Management Workshop

Channel Chamber Training’s One-day Business Workshop is entitled ‘Maximise and Nurture’ and takes place on Wednesday 25th November at our offices on on Shearway Business Park, Folkestone. This workshop will highlight a number of approaches and a wealth of techniques and tactics surrounding effective performance management so as to ensure that your appraisal process becomes more structured, productive and positive.
The cost of the Workshop is £155.00 per member (non members cost £190.00) and this includes tea/coffee and a buffet lunch. Places are limited so you’ll need to BOOK without delay by telephoning Susan Filby on 01303 270022 or email: susan.filby@channelchambertraining.co.ukHow to … Speak Confidently in Public University Centre Folkestone in Mill Bay are hosting another lively networking event for KAYE (Kent Association of Young Entrepreneurs) on Thursday 26 November from 5.30pm-7.30pm

Find out how to make the most of every public and private speaking opportunity.

The Event will be free to non-members but places are limited so please book now by telephoning 01732 849570

An Offer from our Insider Sponsor McCabe Ford Williams

Free 2 hour meeting offer until 22 December 2009 to discuss how MFW could reduce your tax liabilities or accountancy fees,
Call John Shipley now on 01304 204006.

2009-10-30T15:26:00.001Z

Hythe’s Future

Two major planning issues in Hythe are being discussed tomorrow by Shepway’s Development Control Committee – and Channel Chamber is speaking in support of both applications. As a business support organisation your Chamber firmly believes that Hythe will benefit from a new Sainsbury’s store as well as the refurbishment of the Hythe Imperial Hotel and relevant property development. Although these are hugely different, both offer Hythe the opportunity to attract more visitors and will encourage them to spend their money locally. More local jobs are also a vital ingredient for our local economy and hopefully, both developments may even stimulate other businesses to review their plans and think of Hythe as a place they want to relocate to.

The public gallery at the Civic Centre in Folkestone is most likely to be full of objectors to these applications, but if any Chamber members want to join us in support please ensure you arrive before 6.30pm to secure a seat.

Kent Property Market Report

The eighteenth edition of the Kent Property Market report has been published last Friday reviewing activity and major property deals throughout 2008-09. Encouragingly this report reveals that despite the economic situation,the Kent commercial property sector has continued a relatively healthy performance over the last year. The report also looks in detail at residential, tourism, retail and this year also the rural sector.The regeneration section features current and planned developments across Kent and Medway, focusing particularly on the growth areas of Kent - Thames Gateway Kent and Ashford. The report is available to view online via www.kentpropertymarket.co.uk.

Electronic VAT Returns and Payments from April 2010

For all businesses with an annual turnover exceeding £100,000 compulsory electronic filing of Vat returns and electronic payment of Vat begins on 1st April 2010.In addition all new businesses registering for VAT from 1st April 2010 will be required to file returns and pay electronically irrespective of their size.Unlike the introduction of online filing for PAYE returns, where the filing was optional and a financial incentive was paid to encourage online filing, the Vat change is compulsory and no incentive will be provided.

To register online on your own behalf you will first need to register with the Government Gateway. To start this process choose VAT Online from the green box on the HMRC homepage (www.hmrc.gov.uk) and then click on new users

Alcohol Awareness Week

This national campaign runs from 19 to 25 October and aims to encourage adults to think about how much they are drinking. Did you know that nearly one in three men and one in five women drink more than the NHS recommended unit guidelines for alcohol? Employers are being asked to get involved and to help promote this initiative amongst their staff and information is available inline at: http://www.alcohollearningcentre.org.uk/_library/AAW_stakeholder_pack.pdf

Free Cosmetic Surgery Information evening

A Free Cosmetic Surgery Information evening is being held on 6 November at the Ashford International Hotel organised by Chamber member – Spire Health Care (Spire St Saviour’s Hospital). Chamber members and their staff are welcome to attend and will receive a free consultation (normal cost £100). To book on this event please call 01303 233766.

Risk Management

Business insurance and risk management are closely related. The insurance is there to provide protection when the incident occurs and it works best when the claim is dealt with swiftly and efficiently.

However good your insurance protection, an active approach to risk management can help to reduce or even prevent a loss and the resultant disruption to the business.This in turn helps make the business attractive to insure and has a beneficial effect on premiums.

Our Insider Sponsor - Stennings offer general risk management advice and have access to specialist services that can undertake Health & Safety and Fire Risk Assessments, Business Continuity Planning, Fixed Wiring and Portable Appliance testing to give a few examples, together with training in a number of areas.Not only do these services improve risk management but in certain cases help businesses meet legal obligations.

To find out more please contact Stennings on 01303 864198 and ask to speak to either David Donald or Martin Bridges. October 19th, 2009

Hythe’s Future

Two major planning issues in Hythe are being discussed tomorrow by Shepway’s Development Control Committee – and Channel Chamber is speaking in support of both applications. As a business support organisation your Chamber firmly believes that Hythe will benefit from a new Sainsbury’s store as well as the refurbishment of the Hythe Imperial Hotel and relevant property development. Although these are hugely different, both offer Hythe the opportunity to attract more visitors and will encourage them to spend their money locally. More local jobs are also a vital ingredient for our local economy and hopefully, both developments may even stimulate other businesses to review their plans and think of Hythe as a place they want to relocate to.

The public gallery at the Civic Centre in Folkestone is most likely to be full of objectors to these applications, but if any Chamber members want to join us in support please ensure you arrive before 6.30pm to secure a seat.

Kent Property Market Report

The eighteenth edition of the Kent Property Market report has been published last Friday reviewing activity and major property deals throughout 2008-09. Encouragingly this report reveals that despite the economic situation,the Kent commercial property sector has continued a relatively healthy performance over the last year. The report also looks in detail at residential, tourism, retail and this year also the rural sector.The regeneration section features current and planned developments across Kent and Medway, focusing particularly on the growth areas of Kent - Thames Gateway Kent and Ashford. The report is available to view online via www.kentpropertymarket.co.uk.

Electronic VAT Returns and Payments from April 2010

For all businesses with an annual turnover exceeding £100,000 compulsory electronic filing of Vat returns and electronic payment of Vat begins on 1st April 2010.In addition all new businesses registering for VAT from 1st April 2010 will be required to file returns and pay electronically irrespective of their size.Unlike the introduction of online filing for PAYE returns, where the filing was optional and a financial incentive was paid to encourage online filing, the Vat change is compulsory and no incentive will be provided.

To register online on your own behalf you will first need to register with the Government Gateway. To start this process choose VAT Online from the green box on the HMRC homepage (www.hmrc.gov.uk) and then click on new users

Alcohol Awareness Week

This national campaign runs from 19 to 25 October and aims to encourage adults to think about how much they are drinking. Did you know that nearly one in three men and one in five women drink more than the NHS recommended unit guidelines for alcohol? Employers are being asked to get involved and to help promote this initiative amongst their staff and information is available inline at: http://www.alcohollearningcentre.org.uk/_library/AAW_stakeholder_pack.pdf

Free Cosmetic Surgery Information evening

A Free Cosmetic Surgery Information evening is being held on 6 November at the Ashford International Hotel organised by Chamber member – Spire Health Care (Spire St Saviour’s Hospital). Chamber members and their staff are welcome to attend and will receive a free consultation (normal cost £100). To book on this event please call 01303 233766.

Risk Management

Business insurance and risk management are closely related. The insurance is there to provide protection when the incident occurs and it works best when the claim is dealt with swiftly and efficiently.

However good your insurance protection, an active approach to risk management can help to reduce or even prevent a loss and the resultant disruption to the business.This in turn helps make the business attractive to insure and has a beneficial effect on premiums.

Our Insider Sponsor - Stennings offer general risk management advice and have access to specialist services that can undertake Health & Safety and Fire Risk Assessments, Business Continuity Planning, Fixed Wiring and Portable Appliance testing to give a few examples, together with training in a number of areas.Not only do these services improve risk management but in certain cases help businesses meet legal obligations.

To find out more please contact Stennings on 01303 864198 and ask to speak to either David Donald or Martin Bridges.

Your Business News Round UP

2009-07-24T10:30:00.001+01:00

Free Office Space for Start-Ups and Charities

Chamber Members Basepoint has two very special offers for their Folkestone centre. Charities and other not-for-profit and social enterprises are being offered free office space with no deposit required for twelve months. New businesses just starting up or moving from home are being offered free office space for six months. Conditions Apply – please call Lorraine Grover on 01303 298298 or see www.basepoint.co.uk.

Tesco Expansion Plans

Plans for the considerable extension of Tesco Stores at Cheriton have been submitted and can be viewed on line at www.shepway.co.uk - use the planning reference Y09/0681/SH

College Merger

After careful deliberation there is a proposal to merge South Kent and West Kent Colleges. The LSC are seeking your views on the merger before the 9^th September – the consultation document is available at www.lsc.goc.uk/regions/southEast/

110 Years

The Chamber will be celebrating its 110-year anniversary on 17^th September 2009 at the Grand Hotel in Folkestone – the Grand is also celebrating its 110^th birthday this year – so it seemed most fitting. We aim to attract at least 110 attendees at this special extended big breakfast! The event has limited exhibition opportunities available to members only – more details will be following in the next few weeks but please save the date- to find out more about exhibiting and get your name on the list – please call Sezen on 01303 270022 or email sezen.zeki@shepwaybc.co.uk

New tax service helps businesses manage cashflow through downturn

If you’re worried about finding the cash to pay your taxes, a new service from HM Revenue & Customs (HMRC) could bring welcome relief. The new Business Payment Support Service makes it easier for cash-strapped businesses to stay on top of their tax payments by spreading them over a period of time. It’s aimed at businesses and self-employed individuals who are facing temporary financial difficulties and are unable to pay their tax. Call HMRC’s Business Payment Support line now on 0845 302 1435. You’ll need the following information to hand when you call: your tax reference number, details of the taxes that you are worried about and when you expect to be able to pay the bill.

All Change Cabinet at Shepway

The Environmental Services portfolio has been discontinued and its functions split between other Cabinet Members. Cllr Alan North will step down from the Cabinet, but will retain the role of Lead Member on Recycling and Waste. Cllr David Monk is to add Parks and Open Spaces to his portfolio and will relinquish Property Maintenance, Asset Management and Commercial Property, which will be added to Cllr Bliss’ (the leader) portfolio. Recycling, Waste, Street Cleansing, Toilets and Beach Management have been transferred to Cllr Rory Love. Additionally, Cllr Anthony Dunning’s responsibilities as Lead Member will cease.

Date set for Lydd Airport Decision

2009-06-02T17:22:00.005+01:00

After nearly 2 and half years after original plans were submitted, Shepway District Council have set a date to determine Lydd Airport's expansion plans.

SDC's full council meeting on Thursday, July 9 will decide the two applications currently submitted by LAA - one for a runway extension of 444m and the other for a new terminal building.

Lydd Airport managing director Cliff Spink warmly welcomed news that Shepway District Council has set a date for the long-awaited meeting to consider its planning applications.

By the 9^th July it will be more than two years and six months since we submitted our planning applications to redevelop the airport.

“I am confident that we have put forward a compelling case for development at Lydd. At a time when our economy is stagnating and unemployment rates are

soaring, both nationally and locally in Shepway and the surrounding areas, our planned investment must be good news for local communities.

What are your views - let us know on this survey page

Online petition supporting Kent & British Food

2009-05-28T08:28:00.001+01:00

We have received the following from Frazer Thompson (of the English Wines Group) and thought there might others of you who would also want to add your names to the No 10 online petition

"We passionately support Kent business and the need to support local products and services.

Sign our petition and you can not only give the Government an even bigger headache, but also support our County's fantastic Food and Drink businesses!

This isn't some Nationalist scheme advocating isolationism - just a way of ensuring that our food and drink culture starts to become embedded in our thinking and for our obsession with price to be tempered by our awareness of the economic, environmental and social benefits of local sourcing and our pride at the quality of our local produce. KCC have been fantastic supporters of this cause and we'd like that attitude to spread. It starts with HM Government... Sign up now please!

Click this link then respond to confirm as instructed.

Any help you can give to passing this message on would be appreciated

http://petitions.number10.gov.uk/British-produce/

Special Offer for Chamber Members

2009-05-26T11:17:00.002+01:00

Chamber members Romney Hythe & Dymchurch Railway are offering their exclusive dining train again on Saturday 6th June and a few tickets still remain.

If you would like an evening out with a difference on one of the longest evenings of the year then please give our ticket hotline a call any day between 09.00 and 5.00 on 01797 363256.

Tickets normally cost £40 per person and include a welcome drink, a four course meal at Dungeness, the train ride in one of our first class coaches, which includes the return journey after dark, a particularly magical experience.

Chamber members get 10% off so tickets are only £36 each - a bargain - hope to see you there.

Twitter -

2009-05-21T14:06:00.003+01:00

FletchMcGull from Sagittarius and Jo Dodds from Counterpoint Networking and Caroline from the Chamber have just been videoed for a piece for the BBC about Twitter for Business Networking - you can see it here!

New Superstore for Hythe

2009-05-18T11:59:00.002+01:00

Board members met today with planning consultants from Sainsbury to discuss their proposals for the Military Road - Hythe site bought earlier this year from Smith Medical. .

The board learned that 300 new jobs would be created by the re-development of this 34,000 sq ft shop, with 270 free car parking spaces. The design is more aesthetically pleasing than the existing buildings and we are confident that any design/parking/access issues can be resolved through consultations starting with the community this week.

The Local Household survey conducted for Sainsbury revealed that 63% of Hythe residents currently leave the town to do their main food shop - we believe that having a store such as Sainsbury in the town will help stem the flow of people, increase choice and encourage more people to shop on the high street. In recognition of Hythe's outstanding tourism offer we have encouraged Sainsbury to explore opportunities to boost tourism/social events in the town through the use of a Section 106 arrangement with an example given of a local town hopper bus service.

Too many times in the past Hythe have turned down or opposed opportunities that could have improved the town for the benefit of all. In the current economic environment we cannot afford to say No to these proposals, we need to work with Sainsbury's to get the best possible outcome for our community as a whole - including residents, young people looking for work and independent traders.

We would encourage local businesses and residents to pop along to Hythe town hall on Wednesday and Thursday of this week between 2pm and 8pm to learn more about the proposals.

Silver Surfers Day

2009-05-05T12:02:00.005+01:00

Try Something New Today - Online

@Sainsburys Park Farm, Folkestone

As part of our Digital Mentoring programme we are organising a taster day – with a difference. We will be setting up laptops with mobile internet (thanks to chamber members o2) at Sainsbury in Park Farm, Folkestone from 10am until 4.00pm on Friday 15th May.

The aim is to get people to try something new and take their first steps online. We are looking for some volunteers from the business community to help – if you can volunteer an hour or more of your time we would be most grateful to book a time slot please call Tracy on 01303 270022.

You can find out more about Silver Surfers day at http://silversurfers.digitalunite.com/ and if you cant take part in our initiative, why not organise you own, invite an over 50 into the office to take their first steps getting on line.

Digital Mentors

2009-05-05T11:53:00.000+01:00

The scheme will be bringing together business people who are willing to share their knowledge and experience of the Internet with other people in the community who are interested in getting to grips with new technology. These volunteer Business Mentors will work alongside a range of local voluntary and community groups and their clients to achieve their digital goals.

This mentoring scheme will help drive significant cultural and social change within Folkestone by enabling participants of all ages to make full use of the Internet, using email, podcasts, on line publishing tools and Social Networking sites.

Everyone will be encouraged to make full use of the range of support groups and facilities that already exist within the local community. They will also be encouraged to access the Internet and to take advantage of the expanding 'social networking' opportunities in an effort to improve access to the public services available to them and the wider benefits the digital age has to offer.

Initial levels of interest have been most encouraging - at the moment we are asking would be mentors to sign up with a profile on http://shepway.ning.com/ and we will be in touch with details of training sessions and when we can start.

If you are a potential mentoree or run a voluntary or third sector group in Folkestone that could benefit from support from a mentor to help access these technologies - please call Caroline Chambers on 01303 270022.

Why Are We Running Digital Mentors?
Recently we set up a Facebook group to garner support for keeping the Leas Cliff Lift Open. Within 2 weeks the group had grown to over 2,800 members - from Shepway and nationwide - sharing their views, opinions and offering support for the campaign.

Our Social Networking Explained Course has enabled members of the business community to use these tools to help grow and expand their business. This blog is tweeted and shared with over 1,200 users on Twitter. The possibilities are endless!

Social Networking and Web 2.0 open up all sorts of opportunities for individuals to share photographs with their families, to shop online, access government services, campaign and lobby their council, find out about new products and services and be part of a connected communication process.

Many parts of our community here in Folkestone are simply not able to access these tools, and our new Digital Mentors project aims to connect those that can with those that need.

This project has been made possible by support from Awards for All and the East Kent and Coastal Primary Health Care Trust. Our mentoring scheme will encourage local businesses in Folkestone to support their local community both directly and in conjunction with the voluntary sector, in more ways than just giving money. It gives their staff a real and direct link to the wider community.

Why not join us?

10 Reasons You Should Be A Member

2009-02-09T14:43:00.001Z

TEN REASONS FOR BEING A CHAMBER MEMBER IN 2009

You invest in your business & you invest in your market, too!

Channel Chamber membership is an annual commitment of funds, based on the size of business and number of employees. Members’ continued investment for the year ahead enables the Chamber to help you develop new customers and clients, new service providers, business skills, a skilled workforce, a more favourable business climate, peer and professional networks, and community presence.

1. Improve Your Bottom Line

Channel Chamber has a wealth of programmes and activities that can help your business prosper. All you have to do is get involved! Chamber members are encouraged to "Remember A Member" when fulfilling business and personal needs for goods and services. It's just good business.

2. Expand Your Networking

Annual Dinner - More than 300 business people attend the Chamber's premier event of the calendar year, and it's not unusual for deals to be made between starters and dessert!

Business to Business Show - this annual event exposes your business to more than almost a 1,000 visitors

Networking Breakfast - This structured networking opportunity has become a popular monthly Chamber event. Open to all members.

Update and Training sessions – offered free or low cost – a perfect way to meet fellow members and learn new skills.

New business openings – regular invitations to new business openings for members.

3. Enhance Your Credibility

Chamber membership tells your customers that you are a reputable company that actively participates in the local business community. Members are encouraged to display Chamber logos at their business locations, on company materials and in their advertisements as an integral part of their marketing.

4. Referrals

When contacted by the public or other businesses to suggest companies to fill a particular need, the Chamber refers only Chamber members. This happens several times a week!

5. Keep Up to Date

The Chamber newsletter – delivered monthly to your door – is packed with information on local companies, important legislative changes and local news stories.

Chamber members receive a weekly news bulletin by email and regular emails about exclusive member only offers and events.

If you want to keep in the know, you need to be a member.

6. Gain Increased Visibility through Cost-Effective Marketing

All members are listed on our web site's Member Directory. Each member receives two listings in the Kemps Kent Business Directory, which has a distribution of 2000+.

Members have opportunities to target their advertising to other members, who are the movers and shakers in the community.

Free display racks are at the Chamber for member brochures, business cards, and flyers on a first-come, first served basis.

Sponsoring Chamber events are opportunities for community recognition.

Newsletter advertising is another great tool to get your message out to the business community. Publication is mailed and emailed to members.

No-cost Internet Links - members can link their business web sites to the Chamber site, and it's Free!

Mailing Labels are an opportunity to promote your products or services to members

7. Tangible Benefits

Our FREE legal helpline, generous discounts on credit card processing machines, reduced rate AXA PPP and Westfield Health Care schemes, discounts on the AA Fleet Cover are just some of the nationally negotiated services available through our quality marked accreditation with the British Chambers of Commerce.

8. Have a Voice in Issues Affecting Your Business

The Chamber Board of directors have their finger on the pulse to help steer local and regional public policy to improve the general business climate in East Kent.

9. Receive Discounts available only to Chamber Members

Take full advantage of the Member2Member discount programme offering hundreds of pounds in discounts only for Chamber Members and their staff

10. Give Back to Your Community

Its not all take: get involved in Your Chamber and give back to the community by becoming knowledgeable about business issues and active in local projects. Your employees and your customers will thank you for your efforts.

If you can think of others, please feel free to comment below!

Backing Kent Business

2009-01-22T15:13:00.001Z

The video of proceedings at the Backing Kent Business event is available to view here

New Bank Bailout- is it really needed ?

2009-01-19T15:58:00.001Z

The government has today announced a second bank bailout package which it hopes will boost lending to businesses and individuals.

The original bank bailout failed to unblock the paralysis in the credit markets and it has been necessary for the government to take further measures.

But, is this appropriate?

Local Businesses and Chamber members are invited to give their opinions either as a comment here or email to the office - let us know so we can inform the BCC (British Chambers of Commerce)

New Years Resolutions

2009-01-12T09:25:00.003Z

Interesting website here (Click on the New Years Resolutions title) from Andy Lapota - who is a bit of a networking guru, and it is well worth a read if you get five minutes - explains why networking can work for you!

There is also a great site here - http://www.kintish.co.uk/ full of resources for those who would like more help with networking.

Our next Networking event is on Thursday 15th January at the Ramada Hotel in Dover - either call 01303 270022 or email info@shepwaybc.co.uk or leave a comment on here and we can book you in.

DO IT!

Start the Year As You Mean to Go On

2009-01-05T15:05:00.002Z

Join us for Breakfast – AND a networking Bonanza. There is no better opportunity for you to meet new contacts and potential customers than our premier networking Breakfast event for 2009, being held at the Ramada Inn at Whitfield, Dover on Thursday 15th January starting at 7.30am. Our host, Trevor Bond always serves an excellent Full English Breakfast and with members coming from Thanet, Dover and Shepway districts this promises to represent an unrivaled return on your precious time – you can book now by phone to Tracy Reynolds on 01303 270022 or on line via the link above

Merry Christmas

2008-12-23T09:54:00.001Z

May we take this opportunity to wish all our members a happy christmas and a prosperous new year.

The office is closed from 12 noon on Christmas Eve and we re-open on Friday 2nd January.

We will be monitoring our emails sporadically over the holiday period, so if you need to get in touch, drop us a line.

Take care, and heres hoping that 2009 brings better news for the business community.

Speakers Needed

2008-12-15T14:52:00.001Z

We are making slots available at each of our 2009 networking breakfasts and are inviting members to make presentations (from 10 to 30 minutes) on specific subjects which may be of interest to local businesses.

If you would like to take part - please consider the following questions

1. In a sentence, what is your area of expertise?
2. Why is your topic of particular interest and relevance to chamber Members today?
3. Your marketplace, - are you the first in your field, the only person in your field or one of many?
4. Why you, how does your approach differ from others
5. If we gave you a speaker session, what would your title and objectives be?
6. By the end of your session what will members have acquired and what would you expect them to do as a result of your session?

If you can answer all these questions then please give Caroline a ring to discuss further.

The BCC Meets The PM

2008-12-08T10:14:00.001Z

Last week the British Chambers of Commerce (BCC) were at short notice invited to take a small group to meet with the Prime Minister at No.10. Led by the President, also participating were the Presidents of London, Manchester, the North East and the Director General.

We used the opportunity to give an overview of the current state of the economy, both from the national perspective of our Quarterly Economic Survey and also local conditions as represented by the individual Chambers.

We then discussed our response to the Pre Budger Review. The PM said he did not think that we were being positive enough about the measures in the announcement.

Our response was that collectively and individually Chambers had acknowledged the support measures, not least the HMRC Business Payment Support Service, Small Business Finance Scheme, the extra EIB funds and the introduction of a foreign dividend exemption for large and medium-sized businesses.

However, we did have concerns about Empty Property. The threshold should have been scrapped completely rather than being restricted to a £15,000 RV; Fuel Duty increases; and importantly the raising of National Insurance Contributions (NIC's).

He responded by saying that the fall of commodity prices would help businesses and that the increases in NIC's would only happen if it were necessary for public finances. The Government "has to show that it has sustainable public finances".

A considerable part of the meeting was spent discussing the relationship between the Banks and Business. Our team pointed out the failings at the present time and the way that business was being impacted. We did point out that the Banks were in a difficult position as they clearly needed to raise their own capital. This is clearly an issue that is exercising the Prime Minister, the Treasury and BERR, and our role in the Small Business Finance Forum was acknowledged.

Finally, we highlighted the good work that Chambers across the country are doing to help business get through the current difficulties and the real efforts that were being made to secure the future of local economies.

The PM said that he wanted to ensure that Public Sector Procurement benefited local business. It was clear from the response that Chambers were involved in a variety of initiatives to promote this. However we still believed that the Government need to exert more pressure on local public agencies.

So if you had the chance - what would you tell the Prime Minister?

Chamber TV Online!

2008-12-01T14:05:00.004Z

We have been working on some tips and advice to help in the downturn and some of our members have kindly volunteered to be videoed.

First..
Alison Chapman gives us her insights into how she turned to the Internet and EBAY to help support her high street Jewellers and she is now power seller!

Next we have a local business banker

then with tips on how to save money on your insurance, our own Chamber Chairman, Ray Johnson

followed by John Harrington - offering some general advice and a free session for local businesses

And finally Peter Hobbs our chief executive talks about why you should join the Chamber

Tell us what you think of these, and also if you are a member and would like to do one of your own, get in touch!

Welcome Return to Hythe Late Night Shopping

2008-11-21T15:27:00.002Z

Late night Christmas shopping evening is returning to Hythe!

For several years the Hythe Chamber have tried valiantly to introduce a family fun day to tempt visitors to the high street, but for various reasons this has not worked too well and they are making a return to late night shopping!

The evenings entertainment will include music from the Salvation army and schools, performance by a swing singer, competitions and special offers. There is a fancy dress competition for the little ones and a chance to win a family ticket on the Romney, Hythe and Dymchurch railway.

So when is it... put the date in your diary, come along, bring the family and have some good old fashioned fun. THURSDAY 11th DECEMBER from 6pm until 9pm... I am certainly going!

Annual General Meeting

2008-11-20T10:53:00.002Z

We are getting ready for the AGM tomorrow - its quite an interesting process listing down everything that we have done in the past year, and its satisfying to see that there is a wide variety of events from last year.

We are planning 2009's events - so tell us, what sort of events do you want to attend?

And if you would like to attend the AGM a reminder that it is at 12noon Friday here in the Business Centre.

Blogging Back On

2008-11-19T15:40:00.000Z

About three years ago we set up a blog for Channel Chamber... I wrote a few articles and it did not really catch on!!

Fastforward and we now have The Insider - which is a weekly email to over 1000 subscribers and more and more local businesses are embracing web.2 and its time to revisit the blog.

Here at the Chamber we are getting ready for the Chamber Xmas lunch - there are still places free and its a great way to socialise and entertain at less than £30 a head

We have signed up some new members - most recently this morning the View in Folkestone - visit the Chamber site for more information on them....

Also on my linkedin site I posted a question...

What should a modern Chamber of commerce look like?
In these trying times, needs and priorities change - as businesses people, some members, some non members, what are you looking for from a chamber of commerce/membership organisation that is not just about networking ?

So comments please... thats all for now.