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/
Wednesday, 27 January 2010
Tuesday, 19 January 2010
The Chamber Insider
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.
Thursday, 14 January 2010
Lydd Airport - What's all the fuss about ?
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.
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.
Wednesday, 13 January 2010
The Chamber Insider
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.
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.
Wednesday, 23 December 2009
The Chamber Insider
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
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
Wednesday, 2 December 2009
The Chamber Insider
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
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
Wednesday, 25 November 2009
The Chamber Insider
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.
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.
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