Stefs Pet Pantry: Best Natural Pet Food Supplier 2024 SME News- Q3 2024 Empowering Leaders to Transform Businesses Any business is only as good as the people who work there. However, building a high-performing team isn’t easy. It takes great leadership to build a culture that instils accountability, fun, collaboration, and achieve results. This is why investing in great leadership and HR is giving small and medium-sized businesses a competitive edge. Modern HR helps with exactly this. From our signature Leadership Accelerator Programme to Gallup Strengths Coaching and a Virtual HR Director service, we make accelerating your leaders and propelling your business easy.
Welcome to the Q3 2024 edition of SME News magazine, where we provide you with all the latest news, announcements, and features about some of the best up-and-coming enterprises around the United Kingdom. Gracing our front cover this month is Founder and Director of Modern HR, Mandy Hamerla, whom we have named our Leadership Mentor of the Year 2024. With more than two decades of HR experience under her belt, Mandy supports CEOs, leaders, and people managers through refreshing and dynamic one-toone coaching, training, and consultancy, enabling their teams to flourish in the fast-paced world of business. We invite you to discover Mandy’s story and how she could perhaps support you in your own business’ HR endeavours. Elsewhere in this issue, we are, as always, excited to be showcasing more of our award-winning businesses who are proving themselves to be the best within their respective industries. We get to know a variety of exceptional enterprises who specialise in the areas of workplace bereavement, fire and security system installation, facilities management, disabled and neurodiverse workforce support, R&D funding and tax relief support, an SME members’ business club, and many more. I hope you find this issue to be informative and insightful, and that you have a prosperous quarter ahead. I look forward to welcoming you back again soon for our final issue of the year. Editors Letter Phone: +44 (0) 203 970 0010 Website: www.sme-news.co.uk Rebecca Scotland Editor No information contained on or in this website constitutes investment advice or an offer to invest or to provide management services and is subject to correction, completion and amendment without notice. Neither AI nor any of its associated entities are authorised to give financial advice of any nature nor are they regulated by the Financial Services Authority. Prior to making any investment, AI recommends that any prospective investor should consult with its own investment, accounting, legal and tax advisers to evaluate independently the risks, consequences and suitability of that investment. AI Global Media, Ltd. (AI) takes reasonable measures to ensure the quality of the information on this web site. However, AI will not assume any legal liability or responsibility for the accuracy, correctness or completeness of any information that is available through this web site. If errors are brought to our attention, we will try to correct them. The information available through the website and our partner publications is for your general information and use and is not intended to address any particular finance or investment requirements. In particular, the information does not constitute any form of advice or recommendation by us or any of our partner publications and is not intended to be relied upon by users in making or refraining from making any investment or financial decisions. Appropriate independent advice should be obtained before making any such decision. Any arrangement made between you and any third party named in the site is at your sole risk and responsibility.
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Contents 6 News 9 Modern HR: Empowering Leaders to Transform Businesses 10 Workplace Bereavement Advocacy Ltd: Breaking Down the Barriers of Workplace Bereavement 12 Frocester Group: Fire & Security System Installation MD of the Year 2024 (South West England): Stephen Taylor 13 Fallow Management Ltd: An Ethos of Honesty and Transparency 14 Stefs Pet Pantry: The Raw Legend of Stef and Skye 16 Stephanie Ward Online Business Services: Empowering Neurodiversity in the Workforce 17 Minerva Innovation Group: R&D Funding Made Easy 18 Micro Nav Limited: Best Air Traffic Control Training MD 2024 (England): Greg Pile 19 Stornaway.io: Choose Your Own Adventure with Stornaway.io 20 CubeLogic: Mitigating Energy Credit Risk 21 BetterCommerce: Most Innovative eCommerce Platform Solutions Provider 2024 – London 22 Elite Land Rover: Best Local Specialist Vehicle Service Centre 2024 – Scotland 24 Mr Spraycoat: Best uPVC & Kitchen Painting Company 2024 – Norfolk 25 CIE Services Ltd: Reliable International Trade Specialists 26 Link To Change: Most Empowering Exploited Children & Young People’s Support Charity 2024 27 Inicio Group Ltd: Best Community Support Services for Young People 2024 28 Taka Taka Mam: Best Traditional Greek Street Food Kitchen 2024 29 Keela Outdoors: Quality Outdoor Kit Without the Designer Price Tag 30 Connecting Britain: Connecting Britain, One SME at a Time 31 Galleria Ponte Veneto Ltd: Procuring the Finest Italian Design Materials and Products 32 Prosper²: The Place for Like-Minded Businesspeople 33 MTE Heat Treatment Ltd: Metal Treatment Sub-Contractor of the Year 2024 - Yorkshire 34 Brightsun Travel: Travel Experiences that Shine 35 BC SoftWear: Pioneering Sustainable Luxury, One Towel at a Time 36 4 The Love of Barre: Low Impact Fitness Tuition Business of the Year 2024 - London 37 Hotel Designs: The Platform Powering Hotel Design 38 Moffat House Hotel: Best Exquisite Country Hotel 2024 - Southern Scotland 39 Unilathe Ltd: Best Multi-Sector Precision Engineering Company 2024 40 Mag Laundry Equipment: The UK’s Commercial Laundry Leader 41 Liquid Lipo Ltd: Empowering Lives with Liquid Gold 42 Helyx: The Professional Services Provider Prioritising People 43 Fashion UK: Europe’s Licensed Products Specialist 44 Seagull Legal Services: Best Property Law Firm 2024 – South England 45 Spares Direct Belfast Ltd: Leading Heating & Plumbing Parts Supplier 2024 - Northern Ireland 46 Build Warranty Group: Securing the Properties of the Future 48 Greenfield Building Services Ltd: Low Energy Construction MD of the Year 2024 (Northern England): Jonathan Dixon 49 J Stifford Solicitors: Specialist Solicitors Working for Justice 50 Jam Coding: Teaching the Future 51 Ambience Care Limited: Most Trusted Health & Social Care Recruitment Agency 2024 52. Grypp Corp Ltd: Show, Don’t Tell with Grypp 53 Allen Family Removals: Home Moving Business of the Year 2024 – West Midlands 54 Dreams Landscapes: Best Local Gardening & Landscaping Service 2024 – Lake District 55 Ateca Consulting: Most Innovative Technology Consultancy 2024 - London 56 Kevlin Tyre & Service Centre Ltd: Best Tyre Shop 2024 – Omagh 57 Floors at Fourteen Ltd: Boutique Flooring in Buckinghamshire and London
SME News Q4 2022/ 6ews Lawtech companies helping UK SMEs with their business growth SMEs (small and medium-sized enterprises) account for 99.9% of the business population1 and yet many find accessing legal services a relatively daunting, challenging and sometimes expensive proposition. Enter the new wave of lawtech companies who are playing a crucial role for SME and startup/scaleup businesses – helping companies access legal advice and documentation when either their budgets or people resources are stretched. LawtechUK, the Ministry of Justice (MoJ) backed initiative, is a driving force behind this digital transformation in the legal sector while also hoping to boost more entrepreneurial activity and inspire more founders to launch lawtech start-ups. “It is essential that everyone can access justice, whether as a private individual or as a business. This is especially crucial for SMEs, who often struggle to find or afford legal services. Research shows that over a quarter of SMEs have lost income due to legal issues but only 16% have instructed a solicitor to solve a legal issue.2 The growth of lawtechs servicing SMEs is helping to address this gap with with easily accessible, targeted and affordable legal services” says Christina Blacklaws, Chair of LawtechUK’s Panel. “This helps businesses particularly when starting or scaling up, allowing founders to concentrate on building a successful business.” The range of lawtechs now servicing SMEs offer solutions that help during three key life stages of a business: launch, growth and success. • At launch: While winning a new client is always a source of celebration, businesses want to focus on servicing those clients rather than dealing with onboarding paperwork. Numerous lawtechs are offering easier ways to handle this, from templates for contracts, engagement letters and NDAs to effective KYC and AML, allowing business owners to concentrate on landing clients rather than admin. • In the growth stage: Proving credibility and being seen as a trusted potential supplier is key for an SME, and proving value to clients is a constant challenge. There are tech companies to help overcome this, for example, in the field of GDPR where Keepabl is focused on helping companies demonstrate their GDPR status to internal and external stakeholders – crucial in the “Trust Economy”. Other lawtechs focus on employment and HR issues so companies can successfully recruit, onboard and retain employees who are helping to fuel their growth. • A successful UK business may be one looking into new overseas markets where elements like protecting your IP can be important when competing on the world stage (and in particular within the United States), which is where virtual patent marking from Terrifio can play an important role in providing peace of mind to ambitious entrepreneurs. LawtechUK has published an Ecosystem Tracker, a searchable online resource for companies looking for lawtech support. 68% of UK lawtech companies focus on catering to the needs of businesses, transforming traditional legal processes and operations, providing tools and platforms that enhance efficiency, reduce costs and improve the quality of legal services for businesses. From automating mundane tasks to offering sophisticated analytics for better decision-making, the focus on B2B solutions is a testament to the lawtech sector's commitment to addressing the complex needs of modern businesses. Some of the companies that feature on the Tracker and are focused on the SME sector include: • Genie AI The world’s largest open-source legal database, helping businesses understand, customise & negotiate any legal document like a pro with legal AI assistance. • MyDocSafe Has an offering particularly developed for SMEs: offering client portals as well as e-signature, onboarding automation and compliance tools. • Sule Hub Aims to simplify the legal process, demystify jargon and empower founders who deserve to receive great legal support without the stress of navigating complex legal intricacies. • Zegal The founders of Zegal set out on a mission to democratise quality legal services for businesses, developing a platform that delivers a 'corporate law firm' experience for everyone online. To help support aspiring lawtech founders, LawtechUK runs free events regionally and on topics such as Generative AI and investment. It also runs a number of free programmes to support lawtech founders at every stage of their development journey: • Lawtech Fundamentals - a self-paced online course for anyone interested in lawtech startups or in the ideation process. • Lawtech Builder - a cohort-based programme for current or prospective founders ready to move beyond ideation and to launch an MVP to the lawtech market. • Lawtech Scaler - an intensive, interactive, cohort-based programme for lawtech founders ready to take their MVP to the next level. Participants learn how to build early traction tactics and long-term growth strategies. • Lawtech Mentoring - an objective-led mentoring programme, connecting startups and scaleups to a mentor within the LawtechUK network who can support in working toward startup/ business objectives. • Lawtech Bridge - brings startups and established legal market players together to share and drive innovation.
New Recycling Rules Pose Challenges for UK SMEs, with Many Seeking Additional Support A recent survey revealed that almost half (42%) of UK small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) are unaware of the new ‘Simpler Recycling’ reforms and how they’ll impact their operations. The Department for Environment, Food & Rural Affairs (Defra) announced the Simpler Recycling reforms in October 2023 to improve recycling rates across the country. These reforms aim to eliminate the inconsistency in recycling services across different regions, ensuring that households and businesses can recycle the same materials no matter where they’re located. Despite most businesses acknowledging the importance of sustainability and having green plans and strategies in place, a whopping 98% of firms expressed they needed more support to implement the new changes. While the deadline for most of the changes is March 2026, the survey highlighted a pressing need for greater awareness and support among SMEs to comply with the new rules. More than 550 small companies were surveyed. Half of these claimed the added costs are the biggest challenge to comply with the new Simpler Recycling rules and where government support is most needed. Others are struggling with the practical implications, such as finding space for additional bins and training staff to separate materials correctly. Defra’s Simpler Recycling reforms will require significant adjustments in waste management practices for both households and businesses. The key changes include: • Standardised Recycling Collections: Every local authority in England will be mandated to collect seven types of recyclable waste: glass, metal, plastic, paper, and cardboard (in one household recycling bin), as well as food and garden waste separately. • Weekly Food Waste Collections: Households will receive weekly collections for food waste, with residual waste being collected at least once a fortnight. • Business Recycling Requirements: Starting at the end of March 2025, businesses (including schools and hospitals), will be required to recycle the same materials as households, excluding garden waste and plastic film. • Digital Waste Tracking: A new central digital system will be introduced to track waste, aiming to crack down on waste crime, which costs the UK £1 billion annually. As the countdown to March 2025 continues, BusinessWaste.co.uk and other industry stakeholders are calling for increased educational resources and support from the government to help SMEs transition smoothly. Small businesses need to be informed and equipped to handle these changes so that the Simpler Recycling initiative and the UK’s broader sustainability goals are successful. Mark Hall, co-founder of BusinessWaste.co.uk, comments: “Despite these looming deadlines, SMEs are not yet fully prepared for the shift. My biggest advice is for business owners to start implementing the small changes gradually. “Get a clear understanding about how the regulation will affect your business and make a plan with all the changes you’ll need to make in the next year. Add a new bin every month (up to how many you’ll eventually need), track your current waste in more detail each time, and ease your staff into it all. By the time the deadline comes, it should already be fully integrated into the business.”
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Empowering Leaders to Transform Businesses Any business is only as good as the people who work there. However, building a high-performing team isn’t easy. It takes great leadership to build a culture that instils accountability, fun, collaboration, and achieve results. This is why investing in great leadership and HR is giving small and medium-sized businesses a competitive edge. Modern HR helps with exactly this. From our signature Leadership Accelerator Programme to Gallup Strengths Coaching and a Virtual HR Director service, we make accelerating your leaders and propelling your business easy. Modern HR is for ambitious SMEs who want to develop their leaders, improve their internal cultures, and drive overall business performance. Founder Mandy Hamerla brings over 20 years of HR experience to her role as an awardwinning leadership mentor, certified Gallup Strengths Coach, and industry consultant. In Mandy’s words: “Modern HR to me is all about balancing commercial thinking and empathy towards employees to help companies attract, motivate, and retain talented people. People now have high expectations about what employers offer, so it’s important to invest in strong leaders who can set clear expectations, drive accountability, and make employees feel valued. That’s what I offer through my virtual HR services and leadership training.” “By enhancing leadership capabilities, we strive to improve team performance, increase job satisfaction, and foster an environment where both leaders and their teams can flourish, using positive psychology.” One of Modern HR’s popular offerings is the leadership accelerator programme. This is a 12-week programme which combines one-to-one coaching, training, and HR resources. It’s designed specifically to drive a rapid improvement in leaders. Training and support are accessible on-demand, and by the end of the curriculum, leaders are instilled with greater confidence, gravitas, improved problem-solving skills, and so much more. It is designed to work with any schedule, offering accessible resources to accommodate for today’s fast-paced workplace. “The truth is most people don't have access to the right leadership training and support to set them (& their team) up for success. I wanted to offer a programme that would change this” Modern HR also offers a Virtual HR Director service, where Mandy works closely with CEOs to help create and implement the People & Culture Strategy. This service means you feel like you have a HR Director as part of your team, but on a flexible basis from just a few days per month. This is a done for you service and covers everything from recruitment, performance management, managing staff issues, bespoke leadership training and more. One particular client, Alister Harris, CEO of Lokulus, says “Mandy is a key part of my leadership team and has enabled Lokulus to become a top company to work for.” The client praises Modern HR’s “cultural and people strategies” and Mandy’s refreshing approach. “I can always rely on Mandy to tell me hard truths which only makes the business better. I think she is quite unique in the HR world, as she brings innovative ideas and aligns closely to what the business needs.” Mandy partly owes her start in HR to the inspiration of her father, who ran many startup businesses throughout her childhood. “Although it was incredibly inspiring to watch him build businesses out of nothing,” she says, “I also witnessed first-hand the challenges and sleepless nights that come with running a business and managing people.” With a business studies degree from Nottingham Trent University and plenty of ambition, she had an impressive career, achieving her first Global HR Director role at Pearson plc at the age of 30, leading a team of 25 HR professionals across the UK, US, India and Hong Kong. Today, Mandy runs her business with a focus on integrity, trust, and empowering leaders to step up into their leadership role. Her clients have had some incredible successes, such as scaling from 10 to 100 people within a year, winning Best Company Awards and seeing a huge improvement in employee engagement results. Mandy’s advice for SMEs in the UK is to “hire strategically, and intentionally.” She emphasises being “clear on the expectations you have both in terms of outcomes and behaviours.” She closes by adding, “remember, the people that work for you are humans. Treat them well and build loyalty, and it will pay tenfold in return.” It’s according to this valuable advice that Modern HR brings Mandy’s passion to the table and brings out the best in every leader. Contact: Mandy Hamerla Email: [email protected] Company: Modern HR Web Address: www.modernhr.co.uk
SME News Q3 2024/ 10 Grief is a complex emotion that does not follow a linear timeline. Without the correct support, it can be a devastating thing. A report from Hospice UK (2019) stated that 56% of people would consider leaving their employer if they didn’t offer proper bereavement support, and Marie Curie (2020) found that 58% of employees felt their performance was still affected by their grief months after the death of a loved one. This Can Happen Global’s 2024 report on grief in the workplace from bereavement advises that workplaces have a key role to play in supporting employees through their grief, though this can be a difficult landscape to navigate without the correct procedures in place. Workplace Bereavement Advocacy specialises in providing workplace bereavement one-day advocacy training to companies to better equip them in supporting their employees during this time. We speak with Founder and Director Jacqueline Gunn to learn more as the company receives its title in the 2024 Business Elite Awards. Founded in 2023, Workplace Bereavement Advocacy is a CPD registered training company that aims to raise awareness of the difficulty of losing someone close, and how it will inevitably impact their work. “At Workplace Bereavement Advocacy, we understand that grief doesn’t have an expiration date, and neither does our support,” Jacqueline tells us. “We pride ourselves on providing comprehensive, ongoing care to those navigating loss.” In addition to being the Founder and CEO of Workplace Bereavement Advocacy, Jacqueline is also the Founder and Chairperson of Talking about Loss, a bereavement charity that was set up in 2019 following the death of her father. Jacqueline felt isolated after her father’s funeral and sought out support and the company of like-minded people who understood her struggles. She battled depression and feared the route she would take if she didn’t do something positive. Returning to work two days after her father’s death, Jacqueline was faced with fear and anxiety, despite her supportive boss and colleague. She soon learned that many people experiencing bereavement did not receive the same support and felt a fierce determination to develop a programme that would train individuals from organisations to become bereavement advocates in the workplace. On the fourth anniversary of Talking about Loss, Jacqueline launched Workplace Bereavement Advocacy with the mission of changing how we talk about grief. She says, “The death of a loved one is profoundly personal and can deeply affect all aspects of life, including one’s professional environment. our mission is to ensure that every grieving individual in the workplace feels seen, heard, and supported during their most challenging times.” In this industry, compassion is a vital value for companies to hold close. Workplace Bereavement Advocacy believes in fostering an environment that promotes empathy and understanding. It trains individuals to offer genuine, heartfelt support to their colleagues and acknowledge the personal and unique nature of their grief. The business has made a commitment to raising awareness about the impacts of bereavement in the workplace and has designed frameworks specifically to educate employees about the emotional and psychological challenges that their grieving colleagues face and how this can affect their work performance and well-being. The aim is to equip every workplace with the tools and knowledge necessary to provide effective support to employees experiencing bereavement. The programmes are geared towards empowering workplaces to manage grief as a collective challenge, promoting healing and strength in adversity. Through Workplace Bereavement Advocacy’s services, employees will feel acknowledged and receive genuine help on their grief journey. “We strive to create inclusive environments where all forms of grief are recognised and respected, regardless of the circumstances. We acknowledge the diversity of grieving processes and encourage personalised support strategies that respect each individual’s needs,” Jacqueline tells us. “Our training programmes are carefully designed to align with these values, providing comprehensive, sensitive, and practical approaches to workplace bereavement.” The company’s wrap around services includes a 24/7 helpline that provides access to immediate assistance anytime it is needed, as well as a membership portal that serves as a resource hub with tools and information to help the advocate support their bereaved colleagues at each stage of the journey. Workplace Bereavement Advocacy holds quarterly webinars designed to empower and upskill its Bereavement Advocates with the latest knowledge and skill developments. Additionally, it provides ongoing training on specialised key topics to ensure that the advocates are fully equipped to offer the best support. Most recently, the business has launched school and organisation initiatives designed to transform bereavement support in education settings. The Young Hearts Bereavement Breaking Down the Barriers of Workplace Bereavement
Workplace Bereavement Advocacy is currently conducting market research, with a form to be completed by workplaces, schools, and organisations available. The business has been thrilled to see engagement from international companies and is making great strides in promoting awareness of workplace bereavement. “Together, we can break down the barriers surrounding grief and make compassionate support accessible to everyone who needs it,” Jacqueline says. “Join us as we redefine the landscape of bereavement support. Let’s make empathy and understanding foundational in our workplaces, schools, and organisations.” If you would like to complete market research for Workplace Bereavement Advocacy to aid in bettering its services, you can access the form here. Contact Details Contact: Jacqueline Gunn Company: Workplace Bereavement Advocacy Ltd Web Address: www.workplacebereavement.co.uk Advocacy programmes are specifically tailored for teachers and organisations, teaching them to provide crucial support for children reentering schools and colleges. Great sensitivity is required during these times, and Workplace Bereavement Advocacy is committed to making this transition as smooth as possible. This initiative has been CPD accredited to ensure that it meets the professional development standards that will truly make a difference to the lives of young people. What’s more, Workplace Bereavement Advocacy is proud to share that its Special Educational Needs and Disabilities programme has received official accreditation. This programme has allowed space for the business to promote inclusivity and support for all children facing challenging times. “We’re more than just a programme to tick a box; we’re a movement committed to meaningful support,” Jacqueline states. Jacqueline notes that the business has paid close attention to developments in the industry, learning that there are profound advantages in drawing upon personal experiences when addressing bereavement. This approach gives space for empathy and understanding, while demystifying the often-taboo subject of grief to offer authentic and heartfelt support. However, this is not universal. Some companies are dismissive of personal initiatives and prefer to rely on formal structures such as Employee Assistance Programmes. There is often a discernible discomfort in openly discussing bereavement in such workplaces. “Despite these hurdles, we are making headway by encouraging open conversations and asking thoughtful questions. While EAPs are valuable for certain issues, they often fall short in addressing the personal, messy, and complex human emotions associated with loss,” Jacqueline explains. “By promoting dialogue and understanding, we are breaking down the barriers that surround the discussion of grief, moving towards a more compassionate and supportive workplace environment.” Having a clear understanding of the industry is vital to building success for SME businesses, and Jacqueline advises conducting thorough research to understand customers’ needs and preferences. Using this research, SME businesses can tailor their products and services to effectively meet these needs. Jacqueline also recommends leveraging technology to streamline operations and improve efficiency to enhance customer experiences. “The right tools can make a significant difference,” she says. This applies to social media approaches too; having a robust digital presence is crucial in today’s digital world. SME businesses can reach a broader audience through investing in a professional website and engaging actively on social media. Building connections through networking and collaborating with other businesses and professionals can open up new avenues for growth. SME businesses could consider partnerships and collaborations that will complement their business. Ultimately, the biggest piece of advice that Jacqueline believes to have impacted her journey is to believe in yourself. “Things can go wrong, and often, outcomes differ from what we initially hoped for. We can’t control every aspect of life, but we can control our reactions,” she tells us. “Adopting this mindset has been transformative for me. It has allowed me to embrace resilience and adjust my approach when faced with obstacles, leading to growth and learning.” Looking ahead, Jacqueline aims to revolutionise how we support the bereaved by ensuring that every workplace, school, and organisation is equipped with the resources and understanding needed to help those experiencing grief. This, she plans to achieve within five years. This journey will see Workplace Bereavement Advocacy collaborating with leaders in education, business, and healthcare to establish policies and practices that recognise the importance of grief support. Although grief is a universal experience, Jacqueline states that it is still a taboo subject in many settings. Integrating comprehensive grief support systems will contribute to making a more empathetic society that does not acknowledge grief as a weakness, but as a profound aspect of human life.
SME News Q3 2024/ 12 Fire & Security System Installation MD of the Year 2024 (South West England): Stephen Taylor Stephen Taylor, the Managing Director of Frocester Fire and Security (Frocester), has been honoured with a prestigious SME News Managing Director of the Year award. This accolade celebrates his exceptional leadership, innovative vision, and commitment to excellence in the fire and security industry. Under Stephen’s dynamic leadership, Frocester Fire and Security has experienced remarkable growth and success. His strategic approach has transformed the company into a leading provider of comprehensive fire and security solutions, known for its cutting-edge technology, exceptional customer service, and commitment to safety. Stephen’s journey with Frocester Fire and Security began several years ago, and since taking the helm as Managing Director, he has implemented a series of strategic initiatives that have propelled the company to new heights. His focus on fostering a culture of innovation has driven the development of advanced fire detection and security systems, ensuring that Frocester remains at the forefront of the industry. One of Stephen’s key achievements has been his dedication to customer-centric solutions. He has prioritised understanding the unique needs of each client, tailoring services to provide bespoke solutions that offer maximum protection and peace of mind. This approach has not only strengthened client relationships but also led to significant business growth and a stellar reputation in the market. Stephen’s commitment to excellence extends beyond product innovation. He has also been instrumental in building a strong, motivated team at Frocester. His leadership style emphasises professional development, teamwork, and a shared vision for success. By investing in employee training and fostering a collaborative work environment, Stephen has ensured that Frocester’s team remains highly skilled and dedicated to delivering top-notch service. In addition to his contributions within the company, Stephen has been an active advocate for industry standards and safety regulations. His involvement in various industry associations and committees underscores his dedication to raising the bar for fire and security services, ensuring that the highest standards are met and maintained. Receiving the SME News Fire & Security System Installation MD of the Year 2024 (South West England) award is a testament to Stephen Taylor’s unwavering commitment to excellence, innovation, and leadership. His visionary approach and tireless efforts have not only driven Frocester Fire and Security to success but have also set a benchmark for the entire industry. Stephen’s achievements serve as an inspiration to fellow professionals and affirm his status as a leading figure in the field of fire and security management. On receiving this news, Stephen said: Dear Team, I am deeply honoured to have received the SME News Managing Director of the Year award, and I want to take a moment to express my heartfelt gratitude to each and every one of you for making this achievement possible. This award is a testament to the hard work, dedication, and excellence that all of you bring to Frocester Fire and Security every day. Our remarkable growth and success are the results of our collective efforts, and I am incredibly proud to lead such an outstanding team. Your commitment to innovation, customer service, and safety has been the cornerstone of our achievements. Together, we have developed cutting-edge solutions and built strong, lasting relationships with our clients. Your professionalism and dedication to delivering top-notch service have been crucial in establishing our reputation as a leader in the fire and security industry. I also want to acknowledge the collaborative spirit and teamwork that define our work environment. The shared vision for success and the continuous investment in professional development have created a motivated and skilled team, ready to tackle any challenge. This award is as much yours as it is mine. Thank you for your unwavering support, hard work, and passion. Let’s continue to strive for excellence and push the boundaries of what we can achieve together. With sincere gratitude, Stephen Taylor, Managing Director, Frocester Fire and Security Company: Frocester Group Contact: Stephen Taylor Website: www.frocestergroup.co.uk
Facilities management is a demanding industry, challenging companies within it to overcome high turnover rates, competitive tendering, and unpredictable economies – so, it’s not often you find a family-run facilities management company – in the form of Fallow Management Ltd (Fallow) – celebrating 35 years of successful and profitable trade, providing cleaning and security solutions for corporate businesses across the UK. Now named our Best Cleaning and Security Solutions Company 2024 – Kent, we speak to Managing Director, Tracey Scott-Fox and Operations Director, Sharon Mottram. An Ethos of Honesty and Transparency “We care about the things that the people we care about care about.” What’s the secret behind Fallow Management Ltd in Kent? The sisters leading this second-generation family-run business say their success is firmly rooted in their relentless focus on winning the hearts, as well as the minds, of their employees and customers. Fostering an atmosphere of trust and open communication has been essential in cultivating a workforce that is highly motivated, resilient to change, wellprepared to face the challenges of the industry, and most importantly, one that feels valued and cared for. The theme of ‘care’ underpins so much of what Fallow Management does and stands for, featuring prominently in the company values and being felt strongly across the nationwide team of 195 security and cleaning operatives. In fact, Tracey Scott-Fox and Sharon Mottram attribute much of their staff and customer retention to leveraging goodwill and loyalty by treating every member of staff, customer, supplier, and stakeholder like family. The ‘Fallow Family’ is the term they use to describe what it feels like to work for them, and with them, and they believe it’s why the company has a 97% staff retention rate, 30% of its customer contracts are over 10 years old, and 100% of new contracts have been secured through authentic word of mouth. When asked why Fallow Management overtly champions the concept of ‘family’ and genuinely cares about what’s important to its staff and customers, Tracey tells us, “At Fallow, we believe that humanity will always have a place in commercial business. Prioritising people’s desire for connection at work – especially in a world where online messaging and the use of AI threatens to minimise the value of heart-led communication – is why we work hard to create a real and meaningful sense of belonging and human connection in the workplace.” And it looks like it’s paying off dividends… The company’s most recent staff survey revealed that 99% of staff feel part of the ‘Fallow Family’, 95% are planning to still be working for it in two years’ time, and over 25% of its customer contracts have existed for over 15 years. During the most recent SIA Audit, the Auditor commented that during her site visits, “the word ‘family’ came up repeatedly. The company’s values were not mere marketing slogans or straplines – they were real and experienced by staff in their dealings with the company which made them feel very loyal.” So, what do Tracey and Sharon think their Fallow Family will ‘care’ about over the next few years? “Our customers simply want us to keep doing what we’ve always done for them: provide trained, professional, happy members of staff, manage their accounts with integrity and transparency, and solve their problems with speed and precision the moment they arise. “Our staff are highlighting two priorities for us to tackle: continuing to offer benefits they value like rewards, recognitions, access to a free holiday home, a counsellor, social events, and competitive pay rates and pension. We also know a significant proportion of our staff have Special Educational Needs or learning difficulties and they are talking to us about how they would like to access essential training and job-related resources in different formats, so we are currently trialling YouTube videos and QR coded visual and audible training resources to facilitate this.” “Ultimately our goal for the future is to continue to function as a large business that turns over several million pounds a year, yet still feels like a close-knit family. Whatever matters to our Fallow Family matters to us.” Company: Fallow Management Ltd Contact: Tracey Scott-Fox and Sharon Mottram Email: [email protected] Website: www.fallowmanagement.com
SME News Q3 2024/ 14 For all forms of life on this earth, proper nutrition is essential. Though we may not think too hard about it when it comes to animals, that doesn’t detract from the fact that, just like us, they need a proper diet in order to thrive. This sentiment is one that lies at the core of award-winning Stefs Pet Pantry – SME Magazine’s pick for the title of Best Natural Pet Food Supplier 2024. Keeping pets fed, healthy, and thriving is what powers the businesses, in tandem with its compassionate commitment to being a mouthpiece for pets everywhere, and it's what has enabled it to totally reform how we see pet food as a whole. As pet parents, we always expect typical foods to include all of the nutritional benefits needed to keep our fur babies frolicking around without a care in the world. Unfortunately, not all pets are receptive to these foods, be it due to allergies, health conditions, or plain and simple fussiness. Regardless, in such instances, Stefs Pet Pantry promises to introduce owners to a variety of options unlike anything the market has managed to match. Transparent about sourcing, pricing, and ethics, the business grants customers an abundance of choice, all in the pursuit of guaranteeing full bellies and wagging tails. Stef herself goes into the details – “Our products are handpicked, and the unique and varied choice gives our customers the ultimate control over their shopping experience. Whether they need a particular protein, texture, size ,or price point, we can help them. They are also in control of the delivery date, as they choose this at the checkout. This is also a unique part of our business, giving the customer the choice of when, 6 days a week!” And yet, this level of convenience is just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to Stefs Pet Pantry. To truly understand why the business has become such a phenomenon, we must delve a little deeper, and it’s here that we turn our attention to the beloved – and greatly missed – Skye. The reason for Stefs Pet Pantry’s very existence, Skye was Let us set the scene – you’re a pet parent, and your pup is refusing to touch their food. Nothing’s changed, they’re perfectly healthy, and yet they won’t go near their bowl. How do you fix it? If you answered ‘change their food’ then you’re halfway there. The other half is what may surprise you – change their food to natural, raw food. Though it may sound strange, we delve into how Stef Peel discovered the benefits of raw food through her lovely lady Skye, and how their adventure together would go on to reshape the natural pet food market forever. This is their raw story – a story that begins with Skye, and ends with the creation of the Best Natural Pet Food Supplier 2024, Stefs Pet Pantry. The Raw Legend of Stef and Skye
Stef’s world. A lovely fox red lab who, uncharacteristically for a labrador, showed little to no interest in food. Try as she might, Stef just couldn’t get her to settle on something she liked. She burned through brand after brand of conventional tinned food, sampled all of the kibble she could find, and even attempted to make the switch to ham and chicken. Of course, Skye was having none of it. After three days on a new type of food, she’d soon start turning her nose up. Though some thought it was comically ironic to have a picky labrador, it was causing Stef an abundance of stress and worry. Skye was a working dog – an energetic girl who put 100% into working the fields of Stef’s home. After all, it’s what she was bred for, and it was clear Skye wouldn’t let an empty stomach deter her. Except, after roughly nine years, her hard working lifestyle and unfortunate eating habits finally caught up to her. After suffering spondylitis of the spine – a condition that resulted in total muscle wastage in her back end, and later crippling arthritis – Skye was forced to retire. At this point, Stef was at a loss. With Skye’s deteriorating health, and her reluctance to even look at a bowl of food, it would take a breakthrough to nurse her back to the health she deserved to have at nine years of age. It was at this point that Stef happened upon the idea of feeding Skye raw food. Nowadays, it seems like a go-to solution, but, at the time, all Stef had to go off of were forums, horror stories, and mixed opinions. But with no other options, Stef took the leap and purchased some raw food – if still a little unsettled by the thought of it – and got to preparing Skye her very first serving. It was here that everything changed. Skye wasn’t just interested; she was dancing for her food! Tail wagging, feet tapping – it was more than Stef could’ve ever hoped for. From that first portion, neither of them looked back. Skye had finally found the food for her, and Stef was determined to spread the word that, no matter your pet’s preferences, raw food would get them to eat without fail. Though, at the time, it was an uncertain decision, Skye was able to live another incredible seven years, and it’s all thanks to Stef’s astounding discovery. Now, Skye remains the heart of Stefs Pet Pantry – a symbol of understanding the fear that can come with your pet refusing to eat, and the hope that accompanies watching them finally wolf down something they love. Stef and Skye’s story is a beautiful one indeed, and it’s what will always encourage Stefs Pet Pantry forward as it continues its journey toward providing pet parents with the nutritional foods they need. It's incredible to learn that one story can make all the difference, but that’s exactly what Stef and Skye’s story has done. Through living and learning, the pair uncovered the vast benefits of raw food, ultimately inspiring Stef to create what we now see today – Stefs Pet Pantry, the Best Natural Pet Food Supplier 2024. We sincerely wish Stef all the best as she continues her journey with Stefs Pet Pantry. We’re sure Skye is carefully watching over all of the pets the brand has saved through its selection of sublime, all-natural food. Contact Details Contact: Stef Peel Company: Stefs Pet Pantry Web Address: https://www.stefspetpantry.com/
SME News Q3 2024/ 16 Empowering Neurodiversity in the Workforce For individuals with neurodivergent conditions, the workplace can present various challenges and finding employment can a struggle. As someone with lived experiences of these conditions, Stephanie Ward established her business to help like-minded individuals thrive and contribute to innovation in society. In the wake of its win, we speak to Stephanie about the vital role her company plays in empowering neurodiverse talent. Stephanie Ward Online Business Services provides specialist support for the disabled and neurodiverse workforce to help them unlock their potential. Its compassionate services include everything from Access to Work support to Marketing and Productivity support. Stephanie has built a dedicated team with lived experience of these conditions and diverse skillsets. The team act as virtual assistants, covering everything inhouse, excluding accountancy and legal services, and tailoring services to all industries. At its core, the business emphasises kindness and inclusion and strives to consistently exceed expectations. “Working our magic so you can work yours.” Stephanie Ward shares, “We provide Specialist Neurodiversity Support Workers to adults with ADHD, ASD, and other neurodivergent conditions. This includes dyspraxia, dyscalculia, dyslexia, and sensory processing issues. Our team provide personalised expert services to ensure these wonderful people can stay well and in work, in a sustainable way for their disability. “Many of our clients are self-employed and have not thrived due to their disability obstructing progress. By working with us, barriers are removed, and they can have the business of their dreams. One client had been struggling as a freelancer for 20+ years before her ADHD/ ASD diagnosis. She came to me for help and within 18 months, she was VAT registered!” As a neurodivergent individual, Stephanie has spent her life fighting the system and understands the importance of embracing differences to achieve success. Stephanie Ward Online Business Services is a pioneer of this type of support and prides itself on offering flexible services and employment opportunities within its own organisation. Staff are provided with a range of accessibility modifications such as flexible working, reasonable adjustments to working hours and environment, and practical support to apply for government disability support. The UK’s adult ADHD services are currently in crisis due to long waiting times and a national supply shortage of ADHD medication. Partially due to the increase in global demand, those who have been prescribed medication are now going without. Due to the significant increase in ADHD diagnoses, more people are attempting to utilise the government’s Access to Work programme to receive assistance. Stephanie Ward Online Business Services supports individuals with their Access to Work applications, helping them to manage forms and communicate effectively with their case managers. The team respects every client as an individual, helping them to find solutions to their unique problems and create systems that provide clarity. Stephanie and her team are virtual assistants for conditions such as ADHD and Autism, advocating for neuroinclusion at work to help organisations unlock their full potential. With its extensive expertise, Stephanie Ward Online Business Services can position clients and their businesses for success and help them achieve business sustainability. On her experience, Joanne shares, “Stephanie is a rare find – She is genuine! What you see is what you get! She is the first person who listened to my business needs – without trying to sell to me. Newcastle’s best kept secret!” Alice adds, “Steph is the most customerfocused businesswoman I’ve ever had the honour of meeting. Her ability to deliver a fantastic quality service, with the bonus of a cracking sense of humour, and also meeting all budget requirements, is second to none. I’d recommend her to anyone needing any help.” In July 2024, Stephanie launched The Bootstrap Business Club, a 12-month program of directed support for new business owners and neurospicy entrepreneurs. Every month, the team works with clients on a different aspect of their business to help them develop sustainably and grow their business. Clients who sign up for The Bootstrap Business Club will receive exceptional support and guidance tailored to their individual needs and goals. Stephanie Ward and her team are passionate about delivering high-quality services that encourage adults with neurodivergent conditions to embrace their differences and drive innovation and success. The team provide personalised support to help individuals flourish at work while working sustainably with their disability. For neurodivergent and disabled workforces, the company opens the door for new opportunities and helps individuals to achieve their goals. In this year’s Business Elite Awards, we have bestowed on Stephanie Ward Online Business Services our award for Best Disabled & Neurodiverse Employee Support Provider. We cannot wait to see what comes next for the business on its mission to empower neurodiverse individuals in the workplace. Contact: Stephanie Ward Company: Stephanie Ward Online Business Services Web Address: www.stephanie-ward.com
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