business@bridgend - autumn 2013

Economic Development Unit www.bridgend.gov.uk click Business Zone autumn 2013

Are you braveenough to enter theDragons’ lair?Page 3

Healthy futurepredicted forMackworthPage 6

Bridgend BusinessForum Awards20132-13

Ford confirmsmulti-millionpound investmentat BridgendPage 2

01656 815322 | [email protected]

2 Economic Development Unit

Ford confirmsmulti-millionpound investmentat BridgendFord has confirmed a £24 millioninvestment programme at its high-techBridgend engine plant to produce anew fuel-efficient 1.5-litre EcoBoostpetrol engine.

The announcement includes Welshgovernment support of £12 million andwill see employment at Ford Bridgendrise to 2,300 this year – the most in its33-year history.

The Bridgend facility is one of Ford UKlocations benefitting from thecompany’s planned £1.5 billioninvestment announced in 2010. Thislong-term investment will directlysupport programmes linked to theresearch, development andmanufacture of low carbon vehicle

technology over a five-year period.

Welsh Government Minister forEconomy, Edwina Hart said, “The Welshgovernment has worked closely withFord to secure this investment and isdelighted to confirm a support packageof £12 million towards this excitingprogramme. This will help safeguardand create high quality production andengineering jobs in Wales.”

Ford of Britain Managing Director, MarkOvenden said, “The Welsh governmenthas greatly assisted in maximising thefull potential of Ford’s own investment inBridgend and we have met with theWelsh First Minister and the Minister forEconomy to recognise this successfulpartnership.”

Ford Bridgend produces 2,668 four-cylinder engines each day and exportsto Spain, Sweden, Germany, Russia,Belgium and the US. This delivers anannual export value of £1.5 billion whencombined with other Ford UKoperations.

The Bridgend plant is the long termEuropean production base for the new1.5-litre EcoBoost engine. Productionwill start in 2014 and then ramp up overthe following two years to ensure thatBridgend output is maintained atoptimum capacity during this period.The new engine will be built alongsidethe 1.6-litre EcoBoost engine, whichwas introduced in 2011.

Economic Development Unit 3

Are you braveenough to enter theDragons’ lair?The theme of Global Entrepreneurship Week (GEW) 2013 is‘take a step forward’.

With this in mind, the Bridgend Business Forum will beworking in partnership with Business in Focus and CherryblueTraining Ltd to host a business event on Thursday 21November 2013, targeting anyone who currently runs theirown enterprise or anyone keen to develop a business idea.

The forum is also seeking individuals who are willing to takethe step forward to pitch their business ideas to a panel ofexperts in a ‘Dragon’s Den-style’ slot.

Whether you are in business or have a business idea whichyou are passionate about, we want to hear from you. Sendyour proposal to [email protected] and a shortlistwill be drawn up. The best proposals will be invited to pitchto experts on the day. Prizes will include free mentoringsessions from members of the panel.

A key highlight at the event will be a talk from special guest;Dale Williams, owner of Cardiff-based, Yolk Recruitment Ltd.Considered a future serial entrepreneur, Dale currently ownsa property maintenance company and is a business partnerin a social enterprise company alongside Yolk. He is also inthe process of launching an FMCG food and drinks brandamong other projects.

Dale has been seen more recently showing off his culinaryskills on the popular BBC’s ‘MasterChef’ programme, wherehe fought off stiff competition to make it to the finals.

With a passion for young entrepreneurship, Dale is heavilyinvolved in turning ideas into reality by assisting those withbusiness plans and ideas to realise their potential through hissocial enterprise company. He has also agreed to sit on thejudging panel.

There will also be an opportunity to attend a selection ofbusiness seminars and presentations covering essentialtopics for any business; including funding, business planning,marketing, sales and making networking work for you.

Global Entrepreneurship Week (18 -24 November 2013) is theworld’s largest campaign to promote entrepreneurship.

Alison Hoy, Chair of the Bridgend Business Forum said: “GEWis all about encouraging the next generation of entrepreneurs,nurturing business ideas and inspiring people to realise theirfull potential. This event is the perfect platform to access awealth of useful information and advice, with the uniqueopportunity to pitch your idea to a panel of business experts.”

Date: 21 November 2013Venue: Heronston Hotel, Ewenny Road, Bridgend Time: 9am – 12.30pm

For further information contact Mary Pope on 01656815320 or email: [email protected]

To book a place visit:www.bridgendbusinessforum.co.uk or email:[email protected]

Bridgend Business ForumChristmas lunch 2013


Bridgend Business Forum member,Hawthorn Accountancy Solutions iscelebrating ten years of success thisyear. The company has come a longway since husband and wife team,Paul and Liz Gibbs-Murray establishedthe business in June 2003.

Having outgrown home-working, andthe office that followed, the team movedto new premises in 2012.

When asked about the company’ssuccess, Paul is quick to highlight themain reason: “Regardless of the size ofbusiness, the level of service isimportant when you look after a client’saccounts. From the outset, we weredetermined not to join the list ofaccountants that only speak to theirclients once a year. Businesses wantfinancial support on an ongoing basisand that’s what we offer.”

In addition to accountancy services,Hawthorn has developed a suite of

office solutions such assecretarial support,training for accountingsoftware and emailmarketing. Liz explainshow the office servicesbecame a core part ofthe business.

“Basically, our existingclients didn’t want to goelsewhere and wererecommending us totheir clients and suppliers. I think thiscomes with trust over time, particularlywhen you’re dealing with the accountsfor a business. Paul and I looked at ourstrengths and decided that, if we hadthe skills and experience, we couldincrease our range of services.”

Commenting on their membership ofthe forum, Liz said: “I always lookforward to the forum events, they arealways well-organised and well-

attended. The forum has an excellentreputation throughout South Wales asbeing proactive and organised. Keep upthe good work!”

Liz added: “We are a growing team hereat Hawthorn Accountancy Solutions,and we are looking forward to the nextten years. We would like to thankeveryone in Bridgend and further afieldwho have supported us over the years.”

www.hawthornaccountancy.co.uk

Bridgend accountancy firm celebrates

a decade of success

We could be singing hymnsand arias at the BridgendBusiness Forum Christmaslunch this year, when Welshlegend, Max Boyce makes aspecial guest appearance!

Celebrating a landmark 70thbirthday earlier this year, theman from Glynneath is aspopular as ever, selling out atrecent tours. His humour andmusic have both diversity

and breadth and his popularity extends far and wide. He filledthe Sydney Opera House in 2003.

“Max Boyce is the personification of Wales and what itmeans to be Welsh. His passion-fuelled lyrics, as relevant asthey are witty, are the anthem of our nation.” Gareth Evans,Columnist, Western Mail.

There is also a fantastic treat in store for music lovers fromfour exceptional young singing sisters; LaSe who create aunique blend of voices, uniting various genres includingclassical; jazz; pop; soul; gospel; show tunes and traditionalWelsh and Irish songs.

The lunch, which will take place on Thursday 12 December2013, at the beautiful, four-star, Coed-Y-Mwstwr countryhouse hotel, Bridgend is in an excellent opportunity tonetwork, entertain key clients or celebrate your company’sannual success.

Cost: £39.50 (+VAT), table of ten £395.00 (+VAT). Costincludes a pre-lunch drinks reception, three course lunch withtea and coffee.

To reserve your place at the event email:[email protected] website:www.bridgendbusinessforum.co.uk

For more information, contact Mary Pope on 01656 815320.

Guest speaker: Max Boyce

Sponsored by


Autumn programmeof events:6 November 2013 Speed networking businessbreakfastHeronston Hotel & Leisure Club,Bridgend, 7.30 for 8am until 10am

14 November 2013ICT seminarWaterton Centre, Bridgend 8.30 for 9am -11amIn conjunction with Control 2K

21 November 2013 Global Enterpreneurship Week(GEW) 2013Are you brave enough to enter theDragon’s Lair?Heronston Hotel & Leisure Club,Bridgend, 8.30 for 9am until 1pm

27 November 2013Social media and marketingworkshopWaterton Centre, Bridgend 8.30 for9am - 12.30amIn partnership with Wales QualityCentre, Software Alliance Wales andUniversity of South Wales

12 December 2013 Bridgend Business Forum annualChristmas lunchCoed-y-Mwstwr Hotel, Bridgend,12noon for 12.30pm – 3pm

Partnership helps deliver expertHR and employment law advice Bridgend Business Forum is continuing to build on its excellent track record ofdelivering a series of HR-focused events for businesses in Bridgend andsurroundings areas.

The forum has been working in partnership with a number of organisations includingthe Wales Quality Centre and Hugh James Solicitors to host these events whichusually draw, on average, 80 to one hundred delegates per session.

The series will kick off again in the New Year on 13 February 2014, with the perilsand pitfalls of TUPE. With the treadmill that is employment law still going strong,Helen Iles and Emma Poole from Hugh James Solicitors will blend the legal withthe practical and deliver a comprehensive employment law update on the 3 April2014, which is a must for everyone with management responsibilities.

Whilst outlining the most recent raft of legislative change to come into force, thissession will also take a peek at what the remainder of 2014 and beyond has in storefor all employers, and examine a selection of key cases to filter down from the UKcourts and employment tribunals.

In the usual way, this event will close with a question and answer session, providingan opportunity to obtain employment advice on any issues you are currentlygrappling with.

Further on into the year, events programmed in are ‘Data Protection and IntellectualProperty’ on 5 June, Employment law update on 9 October and ‘Defamation andSocial Media’ on 27 November 2014.

All events start with registration / breakfast at 8.30am and the main event at 9amuntil 11am.

Advance booking is essential: Please email: [email protected]

For more information contact: Mary Pope on 01656 815320 or email: [email protected]

To book onto any of the above events, email: [email protected] (advance booking is essential) or visit:www.bridgendbusinessforum.co.uk

If you would like to join the Bridgend Business Forum, membership is FREE.Email: [email protected] or contact: Mary Pope, Business Events Organiser on 01656 815320 or email: [email protected]

You can follow the forum on Twitter @bridgendforum, like us on Facebook or join the discussion on LinkedIn


Fund back open for businessThe Local Investment Fund (LIF) scheme, which offersfinancial assistance to small and medium-sized businesses,has received a further allocation of funding. The previousround of funding had all been committed, in what is provingto be a real success story for Bridgend County Borough.

Now the council’s Economic Development Unit has beenawarded additional LIF monies by the Wales EuropeanFunding Office (WEFO) to continue its valuable support.

Deputy Leader Councillor David Sage said: “I had theopportunity to present a report on the Local Investment Fundto Council recently, which outlined the fantastic success of thescheme to date.

“By accessing our LIF grants, local businesses have been ableto develop and grow by investing in plant and machinery, ICTequipment, website development, marketing and internal andexternal building works.

“The scheme has made a significant impact on the localeconomy by creating over 300 new jobs and helping tosafeguard nearly 1,300 jobs in the county borough. As acouncil we are committed to providing local businesses withadvice and financial support through the European RegionalDevelopment Fund.

“I am also pleased that the Economic Development Unit isalready exploring avenues for developing a new scheme ofsupport for local businesses under the next round of Europeanfunding.”

Ray Pearce, Manager of Regeneration and EconomicDevelopment added: “To date we have been able to supportover 160 companies, both start-ups and existing businesses.Over £1million has been awarded to local businesses to createjobs and stimulate investment and growth.

“Any companies interested in applying for LIF funds shouldnot delay in contacting us. Although we do have extra money,we have already received a substantial demand for theremaining funds.”

For further information on the Local Investment Fund,contact the team on 01656 815315 or [email protected]

Healthy future predictedfor MackworthMackworth Healthcare has been producing healthcare products in the UK for more than 30years, serving both national and global markets.

Originating from a small family business and adhering to this ethos today, Mackworth has investedheavily in new product development and technologies for tomorrow’s world of healthcaresolutions.

The company, which operates to the highest quality control standards has invested in leanmanufacturing processes, using laser guided cutting methods. With support from LIF, the companyinvested in a laser guided sewing machine which has helped increase output, reduce wastage and in turn improve profitability.

Mackworth has been able to increase capacity by 40 per cent and this has had a significant impact on the business. The companyhas secured several long term contracts both with its slings and newly introduced hoist range, resulting in increased staff andturnover.

Managing Director, Neil Smith said: “Future opportunities for Mackworth are endless, now that solid investment and a soundstructure has been created on the solid foundation of 30 years’ engineering.

“I’m delighted to say that we have not only retained the current and entire original workforce but have since created 16 new jobsover a ten month period.

“This has been developed whilst over achieving our planned growth targets to date.

The company also recently celebrated the accolade of ‘Manufacturing Business of the Year’ at the Bridgend Business ForumAwards 2013.

“We’d like to say a big thank you to the team at the Economic Development Unit at the council, as without the support from LIF,I can confirm that such progress would not have been achieved.”

www.mackworth-healthcare.com


Micro-business scoopsBAFTA Cymru award

A Bridgend-based video game developer and publisherhas proved it is at the top of its game by picking up theBritish Academy Cymru Award for Games.

Wales Interactive Ltd, based at Pencoed Technology Park,picked up the award for ‘Go Candy’, a game it developedfor creative animation company, Sitting Duck Ltd.

The award wasn’t the only recognition the companyreceived, as Go Candy picked up two BAFTA specialcommendations for sound and music as well as best gamesdesign. The company also picked up a specialcommendation for artistic achievement for its detectiveadventure game, ‘Stride Files: The Square Murder.’

Since picking up these prestigious accolades, the companyhas gone from strength to strength. It is now set to launchthe first Welsh-language PlayStation 3 game; an indie horroradventure called Master Reboot (Enaid Coll in Welsh) acrossthe globe later this year.

The company has successfully secured funding through theGreen Shoots project to develop the business at PencoedTechnology Centre from ‘GamesLab’, a digital gamesinitiative for ICT graduates and masters students to tradingfully as a limited company.

Images of the company’s work have also been erected ona mural at Cardiff Airport.

To date, the Green Shoots project has provided funding andadvice to over 60 local businesses, which has resulted in thecreation of almost 20 full time jobs.

For information about the Green Shoots project, pleasecontact the Rural Enterprise Officer, Andrew Care on01656 815318 or email [email protected]* A micro business is one employing nine people or fewer and witha turnover or balance sheet of less than €2m.

Green light for business starterunits at Sony UK TECMinister for Natural Resources and Food, Alun Davies AMvisited Sony UK Technology Centre, Pencoed recently toofficially open the first Centre of Rural Enterprise in thecounty borough.

The centre, which is funded through Bridgend CountyBorough Council’s Green Shoots project, administered by theEconomic Development Unit, will provide small-scale,supported business space for micro enterprises – thoseemploying nine people or fewer. The aim of the centre is toenable businesses to develop and showcase their products,network with other companies and benefit from the many firstclass facilities that are offered on site.

During the launch the Minister joined Janice Gregory AM forOgmore, Councillor Mike Gregory; Cabinet Member forResources at BCBC, Darren Mepham; Chief Executive atBCBC, Sony UK TEC, MD Steve Dalton, OBE and Sir HowardStringer, former Chairman and CEO of Sony Corporation fora tour of the new facilities.

The Minister said: “It is vital we do all we can to encourageentrepreneurship and help support our smaller businesses sothey are able to grow sustainably and create jobs in our ruralcommunities.

“I am therefore delighted to open Bridgend’s first Centre ofRural Enterprise which will help support and develop ruralbusinesses in the area.”

Councillor Mike Gregory said: “The council has enjoyed along and successful working relationship with Sony UK TEChere, in Bridgend County Borough. We are pleased to beworking with them again to deliver the Green Shoots Centreof Rural Enterprise project.

“We are very proud that this is the first centre of its kind in thearea and we believe this project is another excellent exampleof how our organisations can work together to support andnurture enterprises in rural areas such as Pencoed.

“With excellent premises, access to support from a worldclass organisation and first class communications – the M4could hardly be closer - what better start could a micro-enterprise have?”

Seven of the ten units have already been occupied and twoof these businesses (Wales Interactive and Dojo Arcade) havealso benefitted from a Green Shoots bursary.

Green Shoots is part of the Bridgend reach RuralDevelopment Programme which has received fundingthrough the Rural Development Plan for Wales 2007-2013which is funded by the Welsh Government and the EuropeanAgricultural Fund for Rural Development.


Trio of Welsh courses to host2014 Senior Open QualifyingThe Royal Porthcawl has been awarded the honour ofhosting the first ever Major to be played in Wales when theSenior Open Championship presented by Rolex takes placefrom 24 – 27 July 2014.

Three of Wales’ leading links courses - Ashburnham GolfClub, Pyle & Kenfig Golf Club and Southerndown Golf Clubhave also been announced as host venues for the Mondayqualifying event prior to the 2014 Senior Open ChampionshipPresented by Rolex.

After a record number of entrants in 2013, it is expected thatmore than 300 golfers will participate in the qualifying eventon Monday 21 July 2014, hoping to earn a place in Wales’ firstMajor Championship.

They will be vying for approximately 30 spots in the field forThe Senior Open Championship and the chance to playalongside some of the game’s all-time greats, such as 2012champion Fred Couples, Bernhard Langer and home favouriteIan Woosnam.

Johnnie Cole-Hamilton, Executive Director – Championships,at The R&A, said on behalf of the Championship: “Next year’sSenior Open Championship Presented by Rolex will be thefirst time the Championship has been played in Wales. We aredelighted that these three superb links courses, AshburnhamGolf Club, Pyle & Kenfig Golf Club and Southerndown GolfClub, will all be involved, alongside host venue RoyalPorthcawl.

“The Monday qualifying event has become an integral part ofThe Senior Open Championship, bringing a positive economicimpact to the local economy, so we look forward to thesethree venues playing an important role in the 2014Championship.”

Advance tickets for The 2014 Senior Open Championship atRoyal Porthcawl can now be purchased, with special pre-Christmas discounts available.

Season tickets bought before December 31 cost just £60 – a25 per cent saving on the gate price of £80.

One day tickets purchased before December 31 cost £20, asaving of £10 on the gate price, while Wednesday practiceday tickets are also available at the reduced price of £10, asaving of £5 on the gate price. Under16s are admitted for freewhen accompanied by an adult and parking is also free.

Tickets can be bought online viawww.senioropengolf.com or by calling +44 (0)800 0232557, with details of hospitality packagesalso available.


Pi’s the limit forSony UK TECSony UK Technology Centre (UK TEC)has announced that it has made its one-millionth Raspberry Pi.

Since securing the multi-million poundthird-party manufacturing contract for thecredit card-sized computer one year ago,the Pencoed-based business has seenits success grow from strength tostrength.

Originally contracted to make 300,000units of the device for multi-channelelectronics distributor, element 14, hugedemand for the product has seen thePencoed-based business pass theseven-figure milestone in under 12months.

The rapid rise in demand is a big servingof great news for Bridgend CountyBorough, as it has allowed the business,which is now producing up to 12,000

units per day, to take on an additional 40employees.

Steve Dalton OBE, Managing Director ofSony UK Technology Centre said: “TheRaspberry Pi is a fantastic example of UKinnovation, design and engineering at itsbest. From the day the product launchedwe knew the Raspberry Pi would be asuccess and we wanted to be part of it.We’ve been delighted and staggered bythe continuous demand of the Pi acrossthe world and there are no signs of thisdecreasing anytime soon.

“The Raspberry Pi is testament that if youhave the right product, manufacturer,

distribution channels and customerdemand, any idea can be a hugesuccess.”

Councillor Phil White, Bridgend CountyBorough Council’s Cabinet Member forCommunities said: “It’s fantastic newsthat the Raspberry Pi has been such amajor success for Sony UK Tec. It has notonly brought welcome jobs to Pencoed,but it puts Bridgend County Borough atthe forefront of technology anddevelopment.

“On behalf of everyone in the countyborough I’d like congratulate Sony UKTEC on their impressive achievementswith the Raspberry Pi, and wish them thebest of luck with it in the future.”

The company is also celebrating after thePencoed site was crowned ‘Britain's BestFactory’ at the 2013 Best Factory Awards(BFA). The company also walked awaywith the BFA innovation award and theelectronics and electrical plant award atthe ceremony which is now in its 22ndyear.

More reasons to shop at PorthcawlThe developer of Porthcawl’s muchanticipated supermarket has beenformally confirmed as Wm MorrisonSupermarkets PLC by the Cabinet ofBridgend County Borough Council.

More than £5m is set to be invested in thecreation of new roads, drainage, utilityand infrastructure improvements linked tothe new supermarket.

Intended to benefit the community ofPorthcawl as well as the overallregeneration scheme, the development ofthe superstore forms an important part ofplans for the waterfront area.

The council is in the process of selectinga contractor to undertake the necessaryhighways and infrastructure work. Whenfinished, the superstore will provide animportant link with Dock Street and thetown centre, new car parking facilities forthe town and attractive landscaped publicspaces, including a new Easternpromenade.

It will also enable the council to focus onother important phases of theregeneration, including land reserved forleisure use in the lower part of Salt Lakeand the development of the nearbyJennings Building.

Deputy Leader David Sage said: “Giventhat it was a little over a year ago that theoriginal Tesco proposals were withdrawn,I am more than happy to see plans indevelopment for building a newMorrisons superstore in Porthcawl.

“We promised at the time that we wouldmake every effort to get this part of theregeneration back on track as quickly aspossible. Thanks to a lot of hard work andcommitment, we are now in an excitingposition where a brand new developer isin place and a contractor for the highwayimprovements will soon be announced.

“We also said that the superstore was justone element in our regeneration plans,and promised to push on with otherprojects in the meantime.

“With the all-new Porthcawl Marinaquickly taking shape, an emergingtownscape heritage initiative scheme forbuildings in the waterfront area andpreparations underway for marketing thehistoric Jennings building to potentialdevelopers, I think it’s fair to say thatwe’ve been true to our word.

“This is great news for Porthcawl, and Iwholeheartedly support the proposal.”

SONY UK TEC Managing Director, Steve Dalton is presented with a gold-plated Raspberry Pi


News in briefDigital DevelopmentFundThe Digital Development Fund is a £2million fund designed to assist insupporting creative industriesbusinesses to exploit new businessmarkets in the global digital economythrough emerging digital technologies.The Welsh Government is seeking tofund projects utilising the breadth ofdigital devices, platforms and channels.The fund is a pilot, and any feedbackaimed at helping to improve the serviceis welcomed. As the fund is rolled out,eligibility criteria and guidance may beamended where required.

The fund aims to support projects thatcan achieve significant commercialreturns through international marketopportunities. The Digital DevelopmentFund can provide funding up to amaximum of £50,000 and up to 50 percent of the eligible costs of each project.Support given under this fund is notrepayable.

The fund is not intended to be used forstart-up investment, early stage researchand development only projects, or for thedigitisation of non-commercial creativeproducts.

If you would like any help with theapplication process or you are notsure if your project is eligible for theDigital Development Fund, please readthe FAQs and eligibility criteria sectionon the website:www.business.wales.gov.uk/digitaldevelopment

New lookSell2WaleswebsiteA new look Sell2Waleswebsite, which is a publicsector procurement portalfor welsh suppliers andbuyers is now up andrunning.

The new website, which isa combination of theBuy4Wales brand andSell2Wales is intended tobe more modern andreliable than the currentsites.

New hardware, software,functionality and sitesecurity will all ensure thesite is fit for purpose nowand for the next five years.It also has a brand newlook and feel.

Existing users from thebuyer community can nowaccess many functions thatthey are already familiarwith in addition to a new,simple to use ‘SupplierFinder’ and will alsoreceive quotes for lowvalue requirements using anew function called ‘QuickQuote.’

You can visit the newlook website here:www.sell2wales.gov.uk

New source of funding standsout from the crowdIs your business considering ways it can finance anew venture? An alternative funding opportunity couldbe the answer you’re looking for.

Growth in internet use has made it easier for largenumbers of people to access money from many smallcontributions instead of few large ones. A relatively newconcept, Crowdfunding allows businesses to obtainsignificant sums of money through small investmentsfrom a large number of parties.

Also referred to as peer-to-peer lending, Crowdfundingsatisfies companies’ needs to source the financerequired to grow their business, while providinginvestors with a small stake in their business and afinancial return. It is becoming an increasingly popularway for small companies to raise finances at a timewhen opportunities to secure funding through moretraditional routes are becoming increasingly restricted.

In December 2012 Business Secretary, Vince Cablerecognised the importance of this form of lending bypledging £55 million of Central Government funding topeer-to-peer lenders and other finance suppliers,through the Business Finance Partnership scheme. Arecent report carried out by independent charity, Nestalooked at data collected from Funding Circle, the largestpeer-to-peer business lending website in the UK.

The report found that the average size of the loan raisedby the surveyed companies is £35,000, with theaverage number of people lending money to eachcompany being 418. The average interest rate of loansprovided to the sampled companies was 8.02 per cent.Sixty per cent of the companies in the sampleattempted to secure a bank loan prior to approachingFunding Circle.

For more information about how crowdfundingcould help your business grow, visitwww.ukcfa.org.uk

Superfast Cymru is a multimillionpound programme to roll-out superfastbroadband in Wales.

The Welsh Government and BT areworking in partnership through theprogramme to bring the benefits of highspeed broadband to areas which areoutside the roll-out plans of the privatesector.

Of the telephone exchanges which coverBridgend County Borough, the majorityhave been upgraded to provide fibreunder BT’s commercial roll outprogramme. The remaining two

exchanges, Maesteg and Ogmore Valleyare scheduled to be upgraded shortly tofibre shortly, along with some essentialinfill work in the Aberkenfig, Bridgend,Pencoed and Pontycymmer exchangeareas as part of the programme. Furtherinfill work will be completed onPorthcawl exchange during Summer2014.

These activities will result in an estimated6,000 additional premises benefittingfrom fibre broadband in the countyborough by end of December 2013. Anda further 8,000 premises during the

2014/15 financial year, resulting in theavailability of fibre broadband to the vastmajority of citizens and businesses inBridgend County Borough by 2015.

Superfast broadband will have a bigimpact for business. Having a fast andmore reliable connection will help yourbusiness gain the advantage – there areso many tools and services at yourfingertips.

To find out more and view when yourbusiness will be connected visit:www.superfast-cymru.com

Fast, fibre broadband is here!


Success story for former Remployworkers in BridgendTwelve months ago, Espack Eurologistica took on 12 formerRemploy employees from the Bridgend factory, following itsclosure and the redundancies that followed.

One year on, those employees are successfully working in theEspack Eurologistica factory on Bridgend Industrial Estate andare a permanent, vital part of the workforce.

Adaptions to the site had to be made and with the support ofBridgend County Borough Council and Department for Workand Pensions (DWP), the company erected a dedicated cleanroom facility within their existing warehouse. Throughout theprocess, Espack was also supported by DWP RemployPersonal Case Workers.

Further adaptations included the provision of an on-site canteen,comprising disabled access and replication of Remployprocesses, helping to aid the transition to new employment.These adaptions were supported by a Local Investment Fund(LIF) grant from the council’s Economic Development Unit andan Employer Support Grant which the Welsh Government hasmade available specifically to help eligible disabled people whoused to work for Remploy.

The Espack management team said: “When we consideredbidding for the valve kitting process work, following the closureof the Bridgend Remploy factory, we adopted an “if it’s notbroken - we don’t need to fix it approach’.

“The Remploy management and production team had anexcellent track record of zero defects, with one hundred per centon time delivery to the customer. This reputation could not beimproved upon, so we moved the equipment and people into anew production facility constructed at our existing premises.

“Due to the extremely tight timescale, there were manychallenges. However with the support and cooperation ofofficers from the council’s economic development unit, DWPand Remploy management team, the transfer of operation wasone hundred per cent successful with no interruption in supplyto the customer.

“The former Remploy team are now fully integrated with theexisting Espack team and continue to provide the highest levelof service to the customer; zero defects and one hundred percent on time delivery.”

A further four Remploy Bridgend staff, including two profoundlydeaf employees, have been matched to machinist roles atBrynwood Holdings on the Brynmenyn Industrial Estate.

Reasonable adjustments were made specific to individualrequirements, which included conducting assistive equipmentassessments by the DWP Access to Work Team, resulting in

pagers being issued to alert hearing impairedstaff to emergency situations. Feedback fromthe new employees indicates that the workplaceadaption has been very successful, with staffcommenting that they have ‘been made to feelvery welcome’ and are ‘delighted’ with their newroles.

The Welsh Government Employer SupportGrant (ESG) scheme encourages businesses inWales to take on former Remploy staff bycontributing towards wage costs on a four yearbasis and assisting with appropriate training andworkplace modifications that may be requiredto enable them to work safely.

The scheme has now been extended to March 2014.

Councillor Phil White, Bridgend County Borough Council’sCabinet Member for Communities said: “I recently had theprivilege of being invited to the Espack Eurologistica factory toview the new facilities and speak to the former Remploy staff. Iam delighted that they are happy in their new jobs and that theyare fully integrated into the workforce. I am also pleased that thecouncil has been able to play its part, through the LIF fund tosupport this important transition.

“It’s also great to hear that the Employer Support Grant schemehas been extended, as it means that we can continue helpingthese people to find work.”

For more information about the ESG scheme, [email protected] or call Vicky Tayloron 07500 814663.

For more information on the Local Investment Fundcontact the business enquiry line on 01656 815315 oremail: [email protected]

Jorge Escalada and the Espack management team receiving their LIF funding plaque from the Leader of BCBC, Councillor Mel Nott, OBE at Civic Offices

(L to R) Jeff Peters, Economic Development Unit, BCBC, Councillor Philip White,front row middle Mr Martyn Phillps (ex-Remploy Manager) front right (sitting)

John Larkin ex-Remploy. Back row (L to R) far left Robert Williams, Arwyn LewisEspack Managers, Jason Simmonds and John Richards Ex Remploy.


And the winner is…Aircraft Maintenance Support Services Ltd(AMSS Ltd) has been announced ‘BridgendBusiness of the Year 2013’ at the inauguralBridgend Business Forum Awards held atthe Coed-y-Mwstwr, Coychurch on Friday20 September.

The company which has been based in Pyle for over 35 years,scooped the top accolade after earlier being named‘Manufacuturing / International Business of the Year 2013’.

Andy Cookson Managing Director of AMSS Ltd said: ”We areabsolutely delighted to have won these two awards. As abusiness we compete successfully against global companies,often punching above our weight. We have achieved this byworking closely with our business partners here in Bridgend,such as the council’s economic development unit and havingthe full support of our AM, Carwyn Jones and our MP,Madeleine Moon.

“Not least of all we have been able to gain this recognitionbecause of the highly skilled workforce AMSS have in SouthWales. The talent we have in the county borough has vindicatedthe decision to invest 1.4 million pounds expanding ourfacilities, creating an additional 40 jobs, reintroducing anapprenticeship scheme all of which has enabled the company

to enjoy significantsustained growth inthe past threeyears at a time ofglobal recession.

Alison Hoy, Chair of Bridgend Business Forum, who presentedthe ‘Bridgend Business of the Year’ award said: “We wereextremely impressed with the high calibre of enterprises whichapplied. It did however make the judging process extremelydifficult indeed! These are testing times for many companies,but our award winners show that businesses and entrepreneursthat demonstrate true determination can thrive, even in themost challenging conditions.”

The awards, which celebrated excellence in enterprise acrossthe county borough, were sponsored by Berry Smith Lawyers,Business in Focus, kksolutions, United Graphic Design,Bridgend Business Against Crime and supported by BridgendCounty Borough Council, the Local Investment Fund andChwarae Teg.

Council Leader, Councillor Mel Nott, OBE who presented‘Manufacturing / International Business of the Year’ award toAMSS Ltd said: “I am extremely pleased that the council hasbeen able to provide a platform for these awards through thework of the Bridgend Business Forum. The awards havehighlighted just how many excellent businesses operate on ourdoorstep. We are proud to acknowledge the achievements ofthese companies, theircommitment, dedication, andtheir contribution to theeconomy.”

Almost 150 guests were on theedge of their seats, eager todiscover which businesseswere announced the cream ofthe crop in the BridgendCounty Borough area.

The evening was hosted byBBC TV presenter andbroadcaster Sian Lloyd, withBerry Smith Lawyers as theheadline sponsor.

Alison Hoy, Chair of BBF with Gary Lynch AMSS Ltd and Sian Lloyd.

Council Leader, Councillor Mel Nott, OBE with Gary Lynch, AMSS Ltd and Sian Lloyd.

Gerald Davies CBE DL


Guests were also treated to music from Welsh singing sensation James Williamsand new all-female group ‘LaSe’.

The Bridgend Business Forum also celebrated its fifth successful year at theceremony, and Alison Hoy, Chair of the Bridgend Business Forum said: “Theseawards are about celebrating success in business and we were absolutelydelighted to celebrate the forum’s fifth birthday.

“So much has been has been achieved over the last five years with the supportof Bridgend County Borough Council. We have 461 members, held over ahundred business events and seminars to support local business and hostedin well in excess of 1,800 delegates from all over South Wales.”

‘Business Student of the Year’Hazelwood Gardens by Becki.

‘Business Services Business ofthe Year’ ISA Training LtdThe runners-up were TSW Training Ltdand Just Perfect Catering.

‘Start-up Business of the Year’Wiggleys Fun FarmThe runners-up in this category wereOne Nine Design and Liberty Horses.

‘Entrepreneur of the Year’Fruity Bouquets R UsThe runners-up were Linda Narbeth,Cherryblue Ltd and Accelero DigitalSolutions.

“We were delighted to beshortlisted, but to win is justincredible! Especially when we sawthe calibre of those shortlisted withus, and indeed of all the businessespresent at the event. This is a winfor all my team who work tirelesslyto keep ISA at the forefront of work-based learning in the hair andbeauty sector.”Shirley Davis-Fox, ManagingDirector, ISA Training Ltd

‘Manufacturing Business of the Year’Mackworth Healthcare LtdThe runner-up was First4Numbers.

“Winning the manufacturer of theyear award has given atremendous lift to everyone withinour organisation. We have beenextremely busy of late with a highvalue order book and the staffhave been working very hard as aresult. For them I’m absolutelydelighted. I feel that they reallydeserved this and their hard workhas paid off via such recognition.”Neil Smith, MackworthHealthCare Ltd

‘Independent Retailer of the Year’Home & Colonial Fine FoodsThe runners-up were Pink ButterflyBrides and Eclectic Vintage Boutique.

“Our team at Home & Colonial are soproud to be winners at the BridgendBusiness Forum Awards 2013 andso are our customers. We displayedour award on the counter top onSaturday after the ceremony and itreduced one customer to tearsbecause she was so proud! Thisaward means a lot to us, as being aretailer has been really tough theselast few years. We were delighted tosee that people could recognise thework and dedication that has goneinto making Home & Colonial thesuccess it is today. Bridgend is afantastic borough, with so much tooffer and we are delighted that nowthe rest of Wales can get to hearabout it!” Abbe Vaughan, Owner,Home & Colonial Fine Foods.

Councillor Mel Nott, OBE, Alison Hoy, ChairBridgend Business Forum and Darren Mepham,Chief Executive BCBC with the 5th birthday cake


Published by the Economic Development Unit of Bridgend County Borough Council. News items should be sent to Nicola Fedyszyn, Marketing Officer - Communities.email: [email protected] T: 01656 815322

A new 60 pitch touring caravan andcamping park has been developed inBlackmill, Bridgend by the Edwardsfamily and council's Tourism team.

The site, which has potential for a four orfive star rating from Visit Wales (thetourism arm of Welsh Government) hasbeen development to complement theconstruction of the 'Celtic Trail' (a seriesof popular mountain bike tracks)adjacent to the farm, as part of the 'TheValleys' regeneration programme.

The land, which was originally used foragricultural purposes and tended bythree generations of the Edwards family,was unable to sustain its farming legacy.As a result, the family diversified in 2000to provide another income stream;Lakeside Farm Park which has troutfishing lakes, children’s play areas andan impressive function room to hostconferences and weddings. The profitsfrom this project have been ploughedback into the business to fund the newsite and safe guard the family’slivelihood.

Eira Edwards said: “We received fundingsupport through reach (RuralDevelopment team in Bridgend) to installan electricity supply and an innovative

compost heatingsystem to boost thesolar thermal andconventional heating,making the toilet andshower block greenerand more sustainable.

“We’ve also installedlow voltage lightingwithin the facility blockand under floor heatingto ensure a comfortableenvironment for ourvisitors.

“The support has also enabled us toinstall high quality up-cycled Paralympicshowers which are fully DisabilityDiscrimination Act (DDA) compliant andare both economical and sustainable.

“We were also able to qualify a LocalInvestment Fund (LIF) grant through thetourism and economic developmentteams, which has helped us tolandscape the park, clad our shower andtoilet block and even develop our newlogo!”

“We are extremely grateful to all theteams at the council, who have workedtogether to support this project. Officers

have been very helpful with advice andsignposting, which has helped us everystep of the way to realising this newventure.

“We are really looking forward topromoting the area as a quality tourismdestination.”

For more information visit:www.ourwelsh.co.uk

Happy campers at new tourist destination

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business@bridgend - autumn 2013

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