Member News

The team at CyberScale put down their laptops and became part of the Priscilla Bacon Hospice volunteer army this week. As members of the Priscilla Bacon 500 club, the CyberScale team wanted to give up some of their time to support the incredible work the Priscilla Bacon do in our local community. CyberScale made use of the hospice’s brand new conference facilities in the morning for business focused sessions and the afternoon saw the team make bird boxes that will be placed around the garden areas.

The future of Norfolk farming is set to be hotly debated at the county’s largest agricultural conference. It stands as a pivotal event for professionals and enthusiasts engaged in farming, food production, and land management.

The Royal Norfolk Agricultural Association (RNAA) has announced a stellar speaker lineup including Groove Armada star and founder of WildFarmed Andy Cato. The full-day conference is to be held at Norfolk Showground on the 6^th February and has attracted speakers from across the world.

Andy Cato, founder of WildFarmed

The RNAA is a registered charity, founded in 1847 to promote the image, understanding and prosperity of agriculture and the countryside, primarily through its hosting of the Royal Norfolk Show, the county’s annual two-day agricultural show.

Mark Nicholas, managing director of RNAA, said: “We are thrilled to have secured a fascinating range of speakers to discuss and debate the challenges of farming. The conference is regarded as being at the vanguard of policy debate, and we look forward to a stimulating day.”

Norfolk Showground arena

Sixteen regional, national and international industry-leading speakers are set to take the stage for the highly anticipated conference. Topics include the environmental costs of farming, how data can enhance sustainability for UK farms and why diet and health matter in farming.

Josiah Meldrum, founder of Hodmedod, said: “Food and farming systems need to change, not least for the benefit of our health and for the planet. What’s so exciting about the conference this year is that it reflects that change and shows how farmers can and are leading the way.”

Josiah Meldrum, Hodmedod

For those eager to attend this landmark event, tickets can be booked here.

In the rapidly evolving landscape of technology, the role of mobile phones in the workplace has undergone a transformative journey since 2019. From the rise of remote work to the integration of innovative apps, employees’ use of mobile devices has become integral to modern work culture. Let’s delve into the ways employees have harnessed the power of their mobile phones to enhance productivity and efficiency.

1. Mobile-First Collaboration: Since 2019, the workplace witnessed a shift towards mobile-first collaboration. Employees increasingly rely on messaging apps, such as Slack and Microsoft Teams, for real-time communication, project collaboration, and quick decision-making, irrespective of their physical location.
2. Rise of Remote Work: The events of 2020 accelerated the adoption of remote work. Employees adapted to using their mobile phones as mobile offices, attending virtual meetings, accessing cloud-based documents, and collaborating with colleagues from anywhere in the world.
3. Mobile Task Management: Task management applications, like Asana, Trello, and Todoist, gained popularity for their seamless integration with mobile devices. Employees embraced these tools to organise tasks, set priorities, and stay on top of deadlines while on the move.
4. Mobile Learning and Development: Mobile devices became essential tools for continuous learning and professional development. Employees engaged in online courses, webinars, and training sessions, enhancing their skills and knowledge conveniently from their mobile phones.
5. Increased Reliance on Cloud Services: The transition to cloud-based services became more pronounced. Mobile devices became gateways to cloud storage platforms like Google Drive and Dropbox, enabling employees to access, edit, and share files securely from their smartphones.
6. Personal Productivity Apps: The app ecosystem expanded to accommodate a myriad of personal productivity tools. From note-taking apps like Evernote to habit-tracking apps like HabitBull, employees customised their mobile experiences to align with their work and personal goals.
7. Mobile Security and Biometric Authentication: With the growing importance of data security, mobile phones integrated advanced biometric authentication methods such as fingerprint recognition and facial ID. This enhanced security measures and ensured sensitive work information remained protected.
8. Wellness Apps for Work-Life Balance: Recognising the importance of employee well-being, wellness apps gained popularity. Employees used mindfulness apps, fitness trackers, and mental health resources available on their mobile phones to promote a healthy work-life balance.
9. Integration of Virtual Assistants: The adoption of virtual assistants like Siri, Google Assistant, and Cortana increased. Employees utilised these tools for hands-free navigation, setting reminders, and accessing information quickly, streamlining their daily tasks.

Conclusion: Since 2019, employees have witnessed a revolution in the way they use their mobile phones at work. From being communication devices to becoming comprehensive productivity tools, mobile phones have played a pivotal role in reshaping the modern workplace. As we look ahead, the continuous integration of mobile technology will undoubtedly contribute to more agile, connected, and efficient work environments.

Sixth Form students at Langley School raise vital funds for breast cancer charity. A team of Prefects at Langley School has been raising funds for local cancer charity, Little Lifts, through a number of student-led initiatives. The pupils started with a target of £200 but, thanks to the generosity of the school community, including pupils, parents and staff, they have smashed the target and raised a sum that far exceeded expectations. The current total is a staggering £1,530 and will go direct to the breast cancer charity that makes up gift boxes for breast cancer sufferers, giving them a ‘little lift.’ Although based locally, the Little Lifts charity send its boxes to every breast cancer patient in the UK who is receiving chemotherapy or radiotherapy treatment. Langley Prefects raised the money via an appeal to all members of the school on a national day of fund raising; a non-uniform ‘Comfy Day,’ and via a collection at their Christmas Carol Service at Norwich Cathedral in December. Langley School Headmaster, Mr Perriss, comments: “We are so proud of our Prefects, who have shown real kindness in wanting to support something so important. We are also grateful for the backing received from the Langley community. Thanks to them, the amount raised is more than 765% higher than our original target. Little Lifts is a superb charity and it’s a pleasure to support them.” In January the Prefects, who are based at Langley’s Loddon campus, met up in person with Little Lifts and have also arranged a date to help with packing the special boxes. Little Lifts Founder Oa comments, “We are extremely thankful to the Prefects at Langley School for raising awareness of Little Lifts as well as vital funds to support our work so that no breast cancer patient feels alone during treatment.  The Prefects have planned and hosted several fundraising initiatives and are a wonderful example of community fundraising at its best. Their dedication to show kindness and support for people during a very difficult time is inspiring.” To make a donation, visit: https://www.justgiving.com/crowdfunding/susan-hughes-3?utm_term=akdxYvjxy

CORPORATELIVEWIRE GLOBAL AWARDS 2023-24 BUSINESS CONSULTANCY FIRM OF THE YEAR – UK WINNER – WINGFIELD CONSULTANTS LTD We are so proud to have won this global award. Not bad for a business consultancy from Norfolk! Global Awards: ‘The judges were impressed with your team’s personal touch and community feel.’ Our business model of 80% paying clients and 20% pro bono supporting local communities, charities, and businesses is one we have stuck to. Why? Because ‘People don’t buy what you do; they buy why you do it. And what you do simply proves what you believe’ (Simon Sinek, Start with Why: How Great Leaders Inspire Everyone to Take Action’). So, if you need support from a business consultancy that delivers and cares get in touch! https://wingfieldconsultants/contact/  

In late December, Warren proudly hosted Jo Churchill, the Minister of State for the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP), for a tour of their Brickfields Way facilities. The visit highlighted Warren’s commitment to championing and supporting young talent in the manufacturing sector and our collaborative efforts with the DWP to create employment opportunities for those furthest away from the labour market. Commitment to youth empowerment Warren has long been dedicated to nurturing young talent in the manufacturing sector. Our unwavering passion extends beyond conventional roles, offering work experience across various sectors, including administration, HR, and engineering. This commitment aligns with the broader mission of supporting the youth and creating a pathway for those seeking careers in diverse fields. Strategic collaboration with the DWP Collaborating closely with the DWP, Warren has forged vital connections with numerous employers in the area. As a committed supporter of the Kickstart agenda, the company not only provides multiple work trial placements but actively encourages other employers to embrace this initiative. Notably, Warren voluntarily took on the role of a Gateway employer, simplifying access to Kickstart for smaller companies and generously sharing HR resources to facilitate broader participation. Minister’s support and recognition Minister Jo Churchill was welcomed by Warren’s Founder Owner, Richard Bridgman, alongside Managing Director Will Bridgman and HR Director Estee Ross. The visit signified the importance of the partnership between Warren and the DWP. The company welcomes the Minister’s support in further developing this collaborative effort, reinforcing the shared goal of creating impactful opportunities for youth employment and professional development. Key figures and insightful discussions Jo had the opportunity to engage with both current and former apprentices, gaining valuable insights into the company’s commitment to skills development and mentorship. The visit also included a roundtable discussion over lunch, bringing together key partners pivotal to Warren’s community initiatives. Representatives from The Mason Trust and ICanBeA, Baxters Healthcare, Centurion, Boniface Engineering, and Peerless Plastics & Coatings contributed to insightful discussions on youth empowerment, employment strategies, and community engagement. DWP District Manager Julia Nix helped organise the event Julia Nix, the East Anglia District Manager for the DWP and who has recently been appointed as a Deputy Lieutenant for Norfolk attended the event, bringing with her a wealth of experience gained during her tenure in the Civil Service since 1983. Recognised as a Princes Trust Ambassador for over two decades, Julia was awarded an OBE in 2017 for her outstanding contributions to tackling youth unemployment in East Anglia. Diverse collaborations with key partnerships for social impact The roundtable included representatives from organisations like The Mason Trust, an organisation supporting young people in Suffolk and Norfolk, and companies such as Baxters Healthcare, Centurion, Boniface Engineering, and Peerless Plastics & Coatings. Each partner plays a crucial role in creating a collaborative network focused on building a thriving future for the community. Warren’s collaboration with DWP extends beyond traditional employment initiatives, encompassing projects like Thetford Modern Manufacturing Town, Thetford Partnership Action Group, and Thetford Business Forum. Additionally, their partnership with the High Sheriff of Norfolk, DWP, Norfolk Community Foundation, and Norwich Prison reflects a holistic approach to supporting ex-offenders, demonstrating the company’s commitment to social impact and community development. Warren’s dedication to youth empowerment and community engagement, coupled with strategic collaborations with the DWP and influential partners, exemplifies a model for creating positive social change. The Minister’s visit underscores the significance of such initiatives, emphasising the shared commitment to building a brighter future for young individuals and the broader community.

A Norwich-based food processing equipment specialist has provided state-of-the-art technology to a leading global snacks producer. Fabcon Food Systems, which is headquartered in Catton, has designed, built and installed a new frying, seasoning and distribution system for snacks experts Calbee UK at the company’s Deeside plant – a move which will support Calbee’s expansion plans. Daniel Woodwards, Managing Director of Calbee UK commented: “Fabcon Food Systems are a long-standing, valued partner. Their collaborative approach, providing turnkey solutions in consultation with onsite teams, ensures optimal outcomes. Fabcon remains the Group’s go-to supplier and we look forward to working with them in our future expansion projects.” Trevor Howard, managing director of Fabcon Food Systems added: “Our relationship with Daniel and his team at Calbee Group goes from strength-to-strength and we are delighted with the result of our installation at the company’s Deeside plant. “Importantly, the new equipment gives Calbee flexibility and will allow them to maintain the high quality of snacks and production they are renowned for. We look forward to working with Calbee in the months and years ahead.” Founded in 2015, Fabcon Food Systems manufacture, supply and install handling and processing equipment for the food industry. Designed and built at the company’s Norwich factory in the UK, Fabcon’s team of 25 supply systems and machinery to customers in the UK, mainland Europe, the Middle East, Australia and Africa. The Fabcon Food Systems website is available through www.fabcon.co.uk, whilst Calbee Group’s UK website can be accessed via www.calbee.co.uk  

How Image Experiential survived, emerged, and evolved into a stronger local business. A Norwich-based events business celebrates success, with an extraordinary resurgence in their 35th year. The reported financial success comes alongside significant change for Image Experiential – formerly Image Display & Graphics – that goes beyond an updated name. Like many industries, 2020 was catastrophic for live events. With a year’s worth of events vanishing overnight and the industry taking a drastic nosedive, Image were quickly forced to grapple for survival. With no choice but to pivot away from events, the team turned their expertise to new avenues. Managing Director, Alex Cosham explained: “It was a matter of survival mode kicking in. We needed something that would use all of our in-house skills in design, marketing, and manufacturing. So, we became Image Garden Rooms to engage our production team and launched our brand consultancy Image Development to support other businesses with the enforced changes Covid demanded.” “It tested relationships and the resolve of our business to the limits” he adds, talking about the “extraordinary resilience” needed to navigate the pandemic. Luckily, live events began to return, a comeback that resulted in 2023 global event revenues reaching 97% of 2019 levels (UFI, Global Barometer – July 2023). The knock-on effect for Image has been exceptional, with strong financial reports, a full calendar, and a growing team into 2024. As events entered a new era, Image began a new chapter of their own too. 2023 was the first year with Alex Cosham in post as Managing Director, taking over the family business after 34 extraordinary years of father Iain Cosham steering the ship. “I had some extraordinary teachers, team-mates and clients, which have helped make my first year one of the most successful years in our humble history”, Alex Cosham reflects. Alongside the company’s financial successes, they have also seen a rise in creative briefs and unique projects, continuing to push the envelope on creativity and leaning into the ‘experiential’. Hence, the shift in name from Image Display and Graphics to Image Experiential was something that “just made sense” to Cosham. But despite the change, he assures us that some things haven’t changed. “We kept the stuff that mattered, the practical know-how, the honest to goodness quality craftsmanship that started in a dusty garage back in the 80s, the spirit of real customer service, the attitude needed to push back. Becoming Image Experiential ready for 2024 feels like the next evolution of our business that we’ve seen taking shape over the last year.” About Image Experiential: Image Experiential is a Norwich-based events company specialising in exhibition stand design and build, interior fit-outs, and experiential marketing. About Image Development: Image Development is a refreshingly simple brand consultancy, helping businesses across East Anglia to find their ‘marketing zen’ with simple, effective support Image: An exhibition stand designed and built by Image Experiential for Norfolk-based business and longterm client Natures Menu at Crufts. 

Plans are underway for an expansion to Bluebell Nursery, part of Langley Prep School in Taverham, due to an unprecedented demand for places. 

The expansion comes following the launch of a brand new baby room in 2022, which has been so successful that there is now a mounting waiting list. The plans will see the build of a new, purpose-built nursery space to cater to the demand for places.  

The nursery, which is based on the 100 acre Langley Prep site, caters for babies and children from 6 months to 4 years old. 

Head of Nursery and Pre-Prep, Mrs Allison Skipper comments, “We are absolutely delighted with the success of Bluebell Nursery and what’s really special is seeing the children not just settling but flourishing in the new setting. The feedback from parents has blown us away, and we couldn’t ignore the demand for more places, so that’s why we are expanding.” 

The new nursery space will feature a ‘Tots-Town’ theme, with role play and sensory learning a key focus. The facility will also continue Langley’s Outdoor Learning focus, with a woodland theme and the chance for children to play and explore in the extensive woodland and grounds. The development will also see existing buildings on the school site re-purposed to form a Pre-School for those aged 3 to 4.  

“Our daughter joined Bluebell Nursery aged 12 months and later this year she will move up to the next room,” comments a Nursery parent. “The way in which the practitioners interact with her is more than any parent could ask for – the care and interest they have is so apparent. We know, without a shadow of a doubt, that Bluebell has been the best start for our daughter, and this is just the start of her Langley journey.” 

Bluebell Nursery offers an all year-round nursery provision, with an option for term-time-only for those parents who have children in the Langley Pre-Prep or Prep School. 

The opening of the expanded nursery is planned for April 2024. 

Before then, on Thursday 21st March, there is a Nursery Open Day and, from Monday 4th to Friday 8th March, there is an ‘Open Week’ for families to tour the Nursery, Pre-Prep and Prep at Langley in Taverham. Book your date and time slot today: https://langleyschool.co.uk/open-events/

At TML we believe in investing in our future which we believe is built by the younger generation, that is why we regularly support a range of students from different education routes. We invest our time and expertise into work experience placements and day release students providing them with a good insight into their future career prospects and help them to gain key skills and knowledge of the industry. Charli – Work Experience Student from UTCN “During my time at TML, I have gained valuable knowledge and practical skills to aid me in my education and future employment. Not only are the employees kind, but they also ensure that tasks and knowledge shared are fully understood, which allowed me to apply my current knowledge to new situations.  During times of quiet machining workload alternative tasks were found for me in other areas of the business so I have had exposure to the complete engineering process from purchasing materials to shipment of parts. I have completed 2 work experience placements at TML, so this shows how much I’ve enjoyed my experience here. I highly recommend TML!” Dan – Work Placement T-Level Student from City College “My placement at TML has given me an insight into the entire engineering process, I have predominately been involved with machining but also had exposure to the process of material selection and traceability, the importance of inspection through to posting out final product. I have had to complete 315 hours of work experience for my course, I have now exceeded these required hours and TML have been keen to continue developing my skill set and knowledge. During my time with TML I have had the opportunity to undertake manual handling training which has led to certification in this area, which has indicated to me they have an interest in my professional progression. All employees have been welcoming and friendly putting me very much at ease, which has made it easy to ask questions and develop my knowledge. Overall, they are a great group of people, and it has been a great experience having my work placement here.” To find out more about TML click here.

We are delighted that Credo’s owners the STAR Asset Finance Group have been shortlisted in the 2024 Business Moneyfacts Awards in the following category – Asset Finance Broker of the Year This is a National Award and one that every Asset Finance broker wants to win! Credo was delighted to win this in 2023, and this was down to all the amazing testimonials that were sent in from many valued clients and our fellow Chamber members. The results are due to be announced at a gala dinner on Thursday 18 April 2024 at Evolution London and we would love to have a chance to win again and put Norwich on the map! But we need your help again!   As part of the decision process, the Moneyfacts Group allow us to ask our own contacts to submit testimonials via an online page. So, if you have received good service from us now or in the past or know us well and have 2 minutes to spare, then please click on the link below and leave a testimonial, we would be so grateful. Asset Finance Broker of the Year – click here Thank you from everyone in the Credo Team

10^th-24^th February 2024 Chantry Place Norwich is hosting a free family ‘Under the Sea Trail’ from Saturday 10^th February to Saturday 24^th February as part of Norwich Science Festival 2024. Local artist, Beth Lester, is creating the illustrations for the self-led trail, based around ‘Great Britain’s Barrier Reef’ – the Cromer Shoal Chalk Beds. Families will discover eight amazing animals and plants, including seals and starfish, that make this 100-million-year-old chalk reef, and its surrounding environments, their home. Free trail maps can be picked up from Langleys in Chantry Place, or from The Forum, and families can do the trail daily in Centre opening hours between 10^th and 24^th February. Once the trail has been complete, families can enter a competition to win a £100 Langleys gift card courtesy of Chantry Place. There will also be an ‘Under the Sea Selfie Station’ on the lower ground floor at Chantry Place. Paul McCarthy, general manager at Chantry Place, said: “Norwich Science Festival helps educate families in a really fun and interactive way about nature and science, and we are looking forward to hosting this trail, which has been designed exclusively for us by Beth. It is fantastic that families can learn more about the incredible sea life on our doorstep at Cromer, and discover some fascinating plants and wildlife that call it home in our ‘Under the Sea’ trail.” Norwich Science Festival’s Marketing Manager, Danie Hadley, said: “We’re so pleased to be collaborating with Chantry Place for 2024 to provide an engaging, free trail for families to enjoy in the half term. The Festival is not only a celebration of science, but also a celebration of Norwich and Norfolk – from the ground-breaking research taking place in the city to the unique wildlife that makes our county its home. We hope families and children will be wowed by the fact that harbour porpoises and the Parpal Dumplin’ sponge live just off our coast!” Beth Lester is a recent graduate of Illustration from Norwich University of the Arts. Beth focuses on nature and natural history and has illustrated matchday programme covers for Norwich City Football Club. Beth said: “It has been a great opportunity to work with Norwich Science Festival and Chantry Place on this fun and educational project. I really look forward to seeing our hard work be enjoyed by families in Norwich and hope it sparks a long term interest in nature for the visitors. Many of the creatures depicted are at risk of decline caused by human interaction, and this trail will highlight the beautiful environment on our doorstep and how important it is to protect it.” The Under the Sea trail is free and requires no advance booking. The full programme for Norwich Science Festival can be found, here: https://norwichsciencefestival.co.uk/whats-on For more information on Chantry Place visit www.ChantryPlace.co.uk   Photo credit – Chantry Place. Photo 1 L-R: Danie Hadley (NSF), illustrator Beth Lester, Paul McCarthy (Chantry Place) and Samantha Joyce (NSF) at Chantry Place