Lifestyle

Home Information Packs (HIPs) in Raunds and Rushden Northants

david@reedpropertyservices.co.uk — WedAMGMTE_RDecemberC822

Reed Property Services is a long established company providing plumbing and home maintenance services. We are local, professional and friendly. We now offer Home Information Packs (HIPS) plus Home Condition Reports (HCR) and Energy Performance Certificates (EPC) for home movers and resellers (estate agents, landlords etc.). Because Reed Property Services is based in Raunds we offer great value and speedy turnaround for anyone needing HIPS, HCRs and EPCs in Raunds, Rushden plus the surounding area (Kettering, Wellingborough Northampton etc.). So: if you are looking to make your house more energy efficient contact us about a EPC If you are moving house talk to us about a HIP If you a local Estate Agent and want a good quality provider of reports - then talk to us.

Professional Carpet Cleaning Equipment available online

nigel.lay@cleaningdoctor.co.uk — Tue, 22 Dec 2009 15:25:30 +0000 GMT

Carpet Cleaning Expert is a new website by Nigel Lay from The Cleaning Doctor (www.cleaningdoctor.co.uk). Nigel is a professional carpet cleaning expert, and a carpet inspector. He knows all there is to know about high quality carpet cleaning. Nigel only uses the very best carpet cleaning equipment, whether thats vacuum cleaners or chemicals. Carpet Cleaning Expert started as a way for nigel to make the products he uses on his own clients carpets available to his clients inbetween his visits. But now it is apparent that these products are popular with the wider general public. So now you can buy the very best carpet cleaning products (vacuum cleaners, chemicals, barrier mats etc) online. And if you need your carpets cleaned you can visit www.cleaningdoctor.co.uk, or if you are in Northamptonshire - call Nigel directly and get the man himself to clean your carpets - at home or in the workplace.

UK Financial Investment Advice

david.sobey@midasstrategies.co.uk — Tue, 22 Dec 2009 09:34:20 +0000 GMT

If you are looking for UK Financial Investment Advice you should take a look at Midas Strategies at www.midasstrategies.co.uk. Midas Strategies is a small investment management business for clients who have approximately �100k available. Midas Strategies operate an exclusive investment product which has consistently brought higher financial returns than most investment providers. In the calendar year to Dec' 31st 2007 The MIDAS Strategy produced actual returns of 26.2% after all charges compared to 0.9% for the main indices. Please visit www.midasstrategies.co.uk for more information and a free fact sheet. Or contact us directly.

financial advice websites for investments

david.sobey@midasstrategies.co.uk — Wed, 16 Dec 2009 08:31:27 +0000 GMT

if you are looking for a financial advisor to help you invest your money then you should look at www.midasstrategies.co.uk. A small independent financial expert working for a small number of investment clients providing above average returns even in a difficult market. The front page of the Midas Stategies website says: A personal Wealth Management service specialising in daily investment monitoring and management The Midas Strategy is a highly effective Wealth Management investment process which has consistently performed within the top 10% of all other actual investment funds available in the UK since 2004 (totalling around 12,000 as of 2009). Our two ongoing objectives are firstly to constantly outperform the average of a basket of indices from around the globe, namely the FTSE 100, the Dow, Fr SBF 120 and the Nikkei 225 and secondly to consistently remain in the top half of all investment fund returns. visit www.midastrategies.co.uk for more information...

Data Centre relocation and move management

Steve.Taylor@technologymoves.co.uk — MonPMGMTE_RDecemberC822

Technology Moves Consulting provides specialist project management and consultancy services to companies looking to relocate their data centre environments. We have extensive experience of moving server environments up to 100 cabinets in size for medium to global sized UK based organisations. We offer a complete range of services for this high risk activity including the following: 1) Feasibility planning to assess space, technical and programme planning issues. 2) Hardware auditing and cabinet planning including assessing power and heat load values essential when planning the building services of a new server room location. 3) Circuit capacity planning and procurement for your new environment. 4) Logistical planning to ensure the physical aspects of the move are fully evaluated and managed. 5) Move management on the day to supervise the various teams in a coordinated approach and ensure the relocated system is returned to service according to the business requirements. 6) Go live support following the relocation to ensure all issues are managed out and supporting documentation is delivered. To enquire about assistance for a data centre relocation is highly advisable for this high risk activity so please contact Technology Moves Consulting for further information.

Investment Management Services in Northamptonshire

david.sobey@midasstrategies.co.uk — Thu, 10 Dec 2009 14:14:13 +0000 GMT

Midas Strategies provide an expert Investment Management Service for individuals with over �100k to invest who are serious about Wealth Management. Midas Strategies is a specialist Investment Management Company using a 'daily monitoring and management' approach to managing clients funds. The business has a small portfolio of clients who all invest their money in a single Midas Strategy product. Midas Strategies then moves these funds to the best investment opportunities and away from areas of risk on a daily basis. The business is based near Kettering in Northamptonshire UK. From here Midas Strategies spend half the week monitoring markets reading advice from world authorities in investment thinking, and analysing funds. Midas Strategies have now launched their new website www.midasstrategies.co.uk to which will be used to attract suitable investors, and communicate with the current investment family.

Prince2 Qualified Technical Project Managers in London

Steve.Taylor@technologymoves.co.uk — Wed, 09 Dec 2009 13:19:14 +0000 GMT

Technology Moves provide Prince2 Qualified Technical Project Managers who are able to apply the methodologies on projects where possible. PRINCE2 stands for Projects IN Controlled Environments and is a process-based method for effective project management. Experience shows that projects which aren't organised and controlled properly can go disastrously wrong � not meeting stated objectives, not being delivered on time, going over cost. Implementing PRINCE2 methodology successfully avoids these potential disasters. To contract Technology Moves Prince2 Qualified Technical Project Managers please visit www.technologymoves.co.uk. About Prince2 PRINCE was established in 1989 by the Central Computer and Telecommunications Agency (CCTA) and is now used extensively by the UK Government and is widely recognised and used in the private sector, both in the UK and internationally. When PRINCE was launched in 1989, it replaced PROMPT (a method created by Simpact Systems Ltd in 10975) within Government projects, and following extensive consultation and contribution by a consortium of over 100 European organisations PRINCE2 was published in 1996. Whereas PROMPT and PRINCE were more geared to information systems project management, PRINCE2 can be applied to ANY project. Key features of PRINCE2 are: � Focus on business justification. � Defined organisation structure for the project management team. � Product-based planning approach. � Emphasis on manageable and controllable stages throughout the project. � Flexibility to be applied at a level appropriate to the project. There are two PRINCE2 qualification levels: PRINCE2 Foundation and PRINCE2 Practitioner: � PRINCE2 Foundation level is for those with a requirement to learn the basics and terminology of PRINCE2. � PRINCE2 Practitioner is the highest level qualification and is suitable for those with the need to manage projects within a PRINCE2 environment. PRINCE2 is a structured Project Management methodology that can be used whenever there is a need to do, go, build, or achieve something, Questions around projects can be divided into how, who, what, when and why: � What needs to be done? � Why does it need to be done? � When will it start? � What is needed? � Who will be doing it? � How long will it take? � How much will it cost? These are typical questions asked at the start of any project and the answers form the basic structure of project management - defining what needs to be done and working out the best way to do it. Structured project management means managing the project in a logical, organised way, following defined steps. A structured project management method like PRINCE2 is the written description of this logical, organised approach. Article Written by RMT

Structured Cabling Solutions for offices - Technology Moves London

Steve.Taylor@technologymoves.co.uk — Wed, 09 Dec 2009 13:15:55 +0000 GMT

Technology Moves provide a Structured Cabling Solutions Service for business. Although there has been a significant increase in wireless technology solutions for both home and office use, the need for a high performing Structured Cabling Solution within a building remains high. The demand for high bandwidth from �data hungry� applications continues to increase and the need for cabling system performance to remain ahead of network topology continues to be a fundamental principle of high performance infrastructure design. There is a greater demand on the capacity of the SCS in order to provide the essential technology services within building solutions. Despite wireless technologies becoming more common the capacity of the SCS is increasing as applications and services demand greater bandwidth that only physical cabling can provide. Savings can be made with a coordinated SCS design and this approach is essential to manage the risk of a single infrastructure solution. For further information on specifying structured cabling solutions within your building contact Technology Moves Consulting. Article Written by RMT

Office Relocation Project Management in London - Technology Moves

Steve.Taylor@technologymoves.co.uk — Wed, 09 Dec 2009 12:54:33 +0000 GMT

Technology Moves are Office Relocation Project Management Specialists based in Central London. Providing specialist technology consultancy services since 2003 Technology Moves provides a full project management service for Office Moves and busienss relocation. Technology Moves help businesses move from one building or office to another without business interuption. They provide full project management which means moving, installing and/or upgrading technology, as well as providing consultancy advice on the best way to use a business space - often an valued service for Architects and service engineers. For more information please visit www.technologymoves.co.uk Article Written by RMT

Data Centre Relocation Project Plans in the London area

Steve.Taylor@technologymoves.co.uk — Wed, 09 Dec 2009 11:56:13 +0000 GMT

Technology Moves basd in Central London Provide Data Centre Relocation Project Plans and Project Management. Providing specialist technology consultancy services since 2003 Technology Moves provides a full project management service for Office Moves and busienss relocation. Data Centre Relocation Technology Moves provides proven methodologies and experienced Project Management to minimise your risk during a Data Centre relocation. The trend of the centralisation and convergence of office technologies places an increasing emphasis on maintaining the availability of Data Centre services. The risk to a business is therefore even more significant when these services are to be moved. Technology Moves have planned and managed many such moves where each project maintained downtime to within the schedule period. Our specialist Data Centre Relocation services include: �High level feasibility and logistical planning �Audit of all existing networking and server equipment. �Planning and coordination of new data centre mechanical and electrical services. �Procurement of new equipment and circuits. �Detailed logistical planning and client downtime scheduling. �Relocation management and go live support. See our case studies for further information on these and other related projects Article Written for Technology Moves by RMT

Tea Taster - Malcolm Ferris Lay

teaconsultancy@googlemail.com — Tue, 29 Sep 2009 16:59:04 +0100 GMT

Malcolm Ferris-Lay has worked in the tea industry all his working life. Malcolm is a specialist tea taster and also provides a host of tea marketing services: Tea tasting services Manufacturers employ tea tasters to assess its quality and suitabiliy for its application. Tea Consultancy works for manufacturers AND for groups and organisations who wish to host tea tasting events / parties. Tea Tasting events are a great way to have fun and learn about tea. Evaluation of major tea brands Major supermarket chains can use Malcolm's vast experience to independently evaluate their teas against those of their competitors and ensure continuity of blends. Hotel Training Services Tea Consultancy is employed to train hotel staff in the finest methods of making afternoon teas for customers. Making tea to the highest standards is a subtle art with different techiques used for different teas. Tea Marketing Services Malcolm works closely with a number of companies with an "own label" requirement to help devise packaging for the retail trade whether it be loose tea, teabags or herbal infusions. Bespoke gift tea caddies for Stately Homes, and places of interest are now achievable as tin production runs are considerably lower than in the past. A beautiful caddy depicting your individual requirements with teabags or loose tea is both highly desirable and offers good margins

Finding Polywrapping companies for direct mail fulfilment

sales@themailshop.co.uk — Tue, 29 Sep 2009 07:01:56 +0100 GMT

The Mail Shop Direct Mail Fulfilment company produces 500,000 polywraps per day! The Mailshop polywraps direct mail publications into clear or printed polythene film. As one of the UKs leading direct mail fulfilment houses The Mailshop can fulfil low to high volume campaigns using the latest machinery for reliability and speed. Environmentally friendly In August 2009, The Mailshop went green and introduced OXO degradable polyfilm as its standard stock, helping you help the environment whilst still giving you maximum impact on your marketing plans. The Mailshop offers a flexible reliable service including the following: ◦clear and printed polyrwapping (standard clear, OXO deg, deg, & printed) ◦up to 10 inserts per pack ◦purpose built CD feeders ◦landscape and portrait inserts ◦hand fed non-machineable inserts ◦full double and missing detection rejection ◦page open and sheet insertion ◦inkjet name and address details inline for maximum efficiency ◦A6 to A3 publications Whether you want to simply send a magazine or send something obscure through the postal network The Mailshop has a competitive solution for your marketing. Please visit www.themailshop.co.uk for our full machinery specifications or contact us for further information

Hand sanitizer gels, wipes and dispensers

info@ds-direct.co.uk — Mon, 21 Sep 2009 10:44:29 +0100 GMT

At Hand Sanitizer Direct, you will find the type of hand sanitizer products to suite your needs, lifestyle and environment. Browse and purchase easily through our website with the peace of mind you are protecting yourself and those around you against the spread of swine flu and other illnesses.

Forestry Management Consultants

info@lockhart-garratt.co.uk — Sat, 12 Sep 2009 18:32:04 +0100 GMT

Lockhart Garratt is one of England�s leading Independent Forestry Management Consultants in all matters relating to trees, woodland and forestry. Clients include woodland and estate owners, minerals and waste companies, local councils, planners, architects and government and non government organisations. Lockhart Garratts excellent management skills and technical expertise in rural estate management and restoration, arboricultural advice, ecological and environmental consultancy, woodfuel and biomass solutions, green infrastructure guidance, research and strong support teams ensure we can provide clients with strategic planning and management advice of the highest quality, as evidenced by our testimonials. Whether it is one-off advice or long term involvement in your business, Lockhart Garratt can provide the necessary bespoke services.

Painters and Decorators in Kettering - Christie Rogers

christierogersltd@hotmail.co.uk — Fri, 07 Aug 2009 06:54:43 +0100 GMT

Christie Rogers Painters and Decorators of Kettering have launched a new mini website to get themselves on the web. you can see this website at www.christierogers.co.uk This long established firm do small domestic painting and decorating projects through to NHS hospitals and a lot of specialist painting projects in churches or older buildings. Christie Rogers Painters and Decorators of Kettering was formed in 1973 by Rod Rogers and Roy Christie. Our team of 8 are all experienced and qualified and capable of the highest standards of work. Christie Rogers works hard to provide a prompt, cost effective and hassle free service to clients. They make sure a clients property is propertly protected, and work around your own schedules. All work is monitored by our Directors. If you need any decorating work done, large or small, please contact Christie Rogers Painters and Decorators for a FREE no obligation quotation. They would be delighted to hear from you. Call us on 01832 735 377.

Key Cutting in Kettering - A&A Security Rockingham Road

Aalocksmiths@aol.com — Wed, 22 Jul 2009 15:24:30 +0100 GMT

A&A Security provide a full range of home security products and services to help home owners protect their properties. A & A Security provides a Key-cutting service while you wait. We are located 100 metres from Sainsburys along Rockingham Road at the end of a small row of shops. We offer a complete & comprehensive key cutting service at our retail premises covering most types of keys. We are able to cut / order keys to its code number if it has been lost. We can also make keys to fit most types of locks by hand. We offer trade and quantity discounts and are able to invoice if required subject to account approval. As independent experts we only sell and install the very best equipment.

Car Rental / Car Hire from Corby Rentals Kettering

enquiries@corbyrentalskettering.co.uk — Tue, 21 Jul 2009 11:12:02 +0100 GMT

Whether you are looking for a car rental for a holiday, or a van hire for moving house, or a for a commercial job. Corby Rentals Kettering have a range of fully serviced cars MPVs and vans. Daily, weekend and weekly prices available. We are located in Kettering, Northamptonshire and have over 30 years experience of renting vehicles. For over 25 years of that time we have been offering car rental, van hire, MPV hire, transit style van hire and much more. Our vehicles are always kept up to date with the latest technologies, including built in satellite navigation in certain models MPV Hire, Transit Style Van Hire and More

Rotary Pig Roast and Beef Roast for Hire in Warwickshire, Northamptonshire

enquiries@countrysidecaterers.co.uk — Fri, 17 Jul 2009 11:45:45 +0100 GMT

Countryside Caterers offer a Rotary Roast machine that cooks Pork and Beef to the highest standard. It is also an entertaining spectacle for your Guests. A pig/beef roast includes soft rolls, home made apple sauce and seasoning. We can also supply a selection of Salads and Desserts. If you are hosting an event and you want a really good quality Pig Roast then call us on 01327 260156 for a free, no obligation chat

Affordable hand made Bedroom Furniture in Northamptonshire

julie@renaissancebedrooms.co.uk — Fri, 17 Jul 2009 11:35:45 +0100 GMT

Renaissance Interiors of Northamptonshire design, manufacture and install beautiful hand made furniture for homes across Northamptonshire. When you want to improve your home contact Renaissance Interiors. We will help you create exactly what you want. If you are unsure our expert Interior Design team, will talk to you about design options giving you great ideas of how to create the atmosphere you want in the room space you have available. Before you do anything else, talk to Renaissance Interiors on 01536 721 813.

Fitting tyres on your driveway or car park

mail@northantsmobiletyres.co.uk — Tue, 14 Jul 2009 10:10:56 +0100 GMT

Northants Mobile Tyre Fitting Services provide car owners in Northants & South Leicestershire with a professional, friendly, mobile tyre fitting service covering Kettering, Corby, Desborough, Rothwell, Uppingham, Wellingborough, Northampton, Market Harborough and surrounding Villages. Northants Mobile Tyre Fitting is a family run business offering a more competitive, caring and thorough job than large chains who have large overheads and poorly motivated staff. We have over 20 years experience in the tyre industry in the wholesale and retail, from fitting to management. We have all the latest tyre changing and wheel balancing equipment. Our aim is to ensure that clients enjoy the value and convenience we offer and use us every time they need our services.

Obelison: Taijiquan and qigong classes, and Buqi, an energy healing complementary therapy.

marcprice@postmaster.co.uk — WedAMBSTE_RJulyC822

Obelison exists at the intersection of taijiquan (tai chi chuan), qigong, buqi energy healing, and technology innovation. Our aim is to help individuals and organisations to take control of their own health and wellbeing. We often find that stress and long hours in the office can adversely affect our health and wellbeing in many subtle ways, which in turn adversely impacts on our business. Obelison offers services at the personal and corporate level that are aimed to help alleviate and prevent these issues. We primarily work in the London and Surrey area, but we are willing to travel further afield too, so do get in touch to discuss your needs. Qigong is a stretching and relaxation exercise system that is great for the body and mind first thing in the morning, leaving you ready to face the day with clarity and vigour. Taijiquan (tai chi chuan) is a more structured exercise that has both martial and meditational elements. It is highly therapeutic, restoring the body posture while focusing the mind away from the stresses of everyday life. Great for unwinding after a hard day in the office. Buqi therapy is an energy healing treatment system - a complementary therapy based on Traditional Chinese Medicine and taiji. It focuses on the close connection between chronic poor body posture and stress. It addresses both sides of this equation, by releasing old stresses and emotions, and by gradually correcting body posture. As an innovator in electronics and software, Obelison is developing new hi-tech ways of bringing these traditional Chinese practices to the world. Our aim is to help improve the lifestyles and wellbeing of our clients, their colleagues, friends, and families. Why not visit our website at http://www.obelison.co.uk for further details. Or call us now to discuss your needs: 0845 077 4075

Office Cleaning in Northamptonshire

enquiries@greenservecleaning.co.uk — Wed, 20 May 2009 10:27:45 +0100 GMT

Greenserve Cleaning Services based in Moulton Park Northampton is an Office Cleaning Company providing a full range of Commercial Cleaning Services using fully trained and insured cleaners. High standards of cleaning in Northamptonshire Established in 1993 the business specifically cleans for businesses in Northamptonshire and has contracts with many medium to large sized commercial clients. This regional focus means that Greenserve has been able to maintain a close control over the quality of its work whilst becoming one of the largest Cleaning Service providers in the area. A cleaning business built on recommendations Greenserve Cleaning Services has grown by recommendations from satisfied clients and is determined to continue to be regarded as No.1 for client care. Clients deal with one Account Manager and cleaning team, have regular meetings and a flexible service tailored to their specific needs.

Caseworkers and Solicitors Northamptonshire - Specialist Quality Mark

enquiries@communitylawservice.org.uk — Tue, 05 May 2009 11:59:47 +0100 GMT

All the Caseworkers and Solicitors at Community Law Service Northampton work to the Legal Service Commission's Specialist Quality Mark. The Legal Services Commission (LSC) run the Legal Aid Scheme in England and Wales. The government provides funding for legal aid to help people: - protect their basic rights and get a fair hearing - access the court process to sort out disputes - solve problems that contribute to social exclusion. Community Law Service is independent and confidential. We hold the Community Legal Service Specialist Quality Mark in all our service delivery areas. Our highly experienced caseworkers and solicitors based in Northamptonshire provide a comprehensive casework service providing advice from beginning to conclusion including representation at social security appeal tribunals, immigration appeals, housing repossession hearings, bankruptcy hearings and other debt related matters at the Crown and County Court. www.communitylawservice.org.uk has been produced to raise awareness of the range of services we provide and to ensure that agencies know how to refer people to us. Do you need legal advice? The Service operates an appointment system throughout the week at its main Advice Centre at 3-7 Hazelwood Road, Northampton. In addition there are also a wide range of outreach Services provided countywide aimed at providing greater access to legal advice assistance and representation.

Builders Northampton - House extensions, new builds, commercial - John Wright Builders

john@johnwrightbuilders.co.uk — MonAMBSTE_RSeptemberC822

John Wright Builders Northampton produce house extensions, new builds, commercial builders. John Wright Builders Northampton has been operating across Northamptonshire and the surrounding counties since the 80s. 80% of our work comes from recommendations. Specialising in domestic house extensions of all sizes, new builds and commercial projects. We are NHBC Approved members specifically to give our clients peace of mind. We regard this as the most trustworthy quality mark for builders. John Wright, his sons and his team are friendly professional builders. Working with trusted specialist suppliers our work is of the highest standard. Please consider John Wright Builders Northamptonshire for your project. Call us on 01604 714 366.

Business Event Management from Northamptonshire relaunches website

enquiries@businessevent.co.uk — Mon, 27 Apr 2009 10:06:08 +0100 GMT

Business Event Management of Northamptopnshire provides Tailor-made Event Management Services for small, medium and large companies throughout the UK. The business creates, organises and manages entire Event Projects to meet your specific objectives or brief. Tailor-made Events from Business Event Management Services ensure that your hard-won clients are not lost to competitors, and they �showcase� your business to prospects all with one marketing initiative. The business has just relaunched its website www.businessevent.co.uk and introduced some new product ranges including a fantastic Lewis Hamilton Look-a-like for hire for public or business events. The new website brings the business up to date and is a far better shop window than the old site.

Solar Powered heating systems

keith@solarairuk.com — Thu, 02 Apr 2009 12:34:49 +0100 GMT

SolarAirUK are suppliers and installers of high quality Solar powered products including: Solar panels approved to meet standards set by the bre matching standards set for government grants Air Source Heating Systems Underfloor Heating Systems Sun Pipes for internal lighting directly from the sun Our products can replace a users boiler or heating system. They are often used by customers who want to use renewable energy sources rather than fossil fuels to acheive a reduced carbon footprint and reduced heating bills. Based in the East Midlands and Kent we are in easy reach of most UK locations for home owners and commercial businesses. As experts in solar powered systems SolarAirUK is able to identify the correct system for any premises. The business sources only the highest quality systems and installing to a standard approved by the Renewable Energy Assurance quality mark. Our installers are Bpec approved.

Legal Advice Charity launch new website in Northampton

enquiries@communitylawservice.org.uk — Thu, 26 Mar 2009 12:20:09 +0000 GMT

The charity Community Law Service (formerly Welfare Rights Northampton) providing legal advice to residents of Northampton and the surounding county has launched its new website (March 09). The Website Business has worked with Community Law Service to develop a website which promotes each of the services available, plus a number of intranet based services to help the organisation communicate with partners and employees. The organisation offers debt advice, housing advice, welfare rights advice, family law and immigration advice. The site can be viewed at www.communitylawservice.org.uk.

What makes a well designed office?

info@verveworkspace.co.uk — Thu, 05 Feb 2009 06:51:04 +0000 GMT

As Daniel Craig�s character in the film �Layer cake� said � �That�s a very expansive question�. And to be honest, there is no easy answer at all because there are so many elements in the equation. And those really depend on who you are talking to. Interior designers will say the decor is the key. Office furniture companies will say it�s the choice of furniture that matters. The IT guys will say it�s all about cable management. The health and safety guru will say it�s the safety that is paramount. The staff will say it�s the facilities. And the Boss will say it�s whatever gets people to work harder and longer. And to be fair � they are all correct. You see, there are so many elements to consider when looking at an office. You need a designer that is realistic in their approach, whilst also being creative and thinking of ways to combine practicality and interesting features. There are good office furniture companies that will do most of this for you � and save you the interior designer charges. They will even manage the project for you to ensure it all looks as it did on the plans. There are basics to consider: 1. What do I need from the space? Do I need anything specific such as boardroom, cellular offices, a canteen, or a large reception area? 2. Will I have high foot traffic areas � such as call centres, or training rooms? Have we allowed good corridor space? 3. Have we considered where natural light is coming from, and what is done to make the most of that? 4. Have we looked at noise levels? Is it wise to put the accounts department beside the sales team? Will the inevitable sales noise be a distraction? What can be done to reduce noise levels? 5. Is the company planning to increase staff levels in the future? Will we need to be able to increase the capacity in the future with minimal disruption? Of course there are many more factors to consider, but these are just a few. The key in designing an office is that there is no 100% correct answer. That is � there is not a �one size fits all� solution. Every business is different, and every building is different too. The most important element of a well designed office is that it does what it�s supposed to do for your business. Of course there are basic parameters that must be met in terms of health and safety and legal observance � but ultimately an office should reflect company values, and look after it�s customers and staff.

What difference can a colour make?

info@verveworkspace.co.uk — Thu, 05 Feb 2009 06:50:23 +0000 GMT

Have you ever walked down a street and turned the corner � and there in front of you is the most hideous coloured car you have ever seen in your life? A hideous purple, or gaudy green? The car itself may be quite fabulous (in the dark) but the owner has seen fit to cover it in the most awful paint imaginable. Sure, there are boring colours that seem to dominate particular years of car design � Audi �metallic sand� was the colour of choice for many years. Ford even saw fit to allow buyers to adorn their Mondeos in a hideous semi fluorescent yellow. Maybe it�s all a ploy to distract buyers from how bad a particular model is. As if in some way if they can distract the general public with the colour they can draw their eye away from the terrible safety, poor quality and general nastiness of their offering? Looking around the office furniture market, one could easily be lead into thinking the same could apply. At launches of new products we often see wacky colour schemes which are clearly meant to make us remember them. Or conversely everything is so bland and all white that we are supposed to think of them as cool � as if an association with iPod�s would make the chair in question cooler. Okay � well maybe that does work. A popular brief received by office furniture dealers all over the country is �fresh and contemporary� so then we try hard to find the best catalogue photography to show a customer the look that can be achieved. Most designers and furniture suppliers have virtually begged a client at some point to pick a different colour. Knowing that to choose that particular colour would make an office look boring, or staid � or possibly dated and faddish. Whilst office furniture suppliers have seen some great colour schemes in place � whether through a customer with a good eye for detail, or as a result of a good interior designer � we have also seen some hideous ideas see the light of day too. I had a client about 8 years ago who set his heart on installing different pastel colours (about 8 different shades in all) blinds to each window in the office. He then colour matched the various pillars in the office to match a window blind. A nice idea in theory perhaps, but it looked awful. Embarrassingly so. It was so bad that visitors would come into the office and audibly draw breath at the choice. He was the boss though and he liked them, so it stayed. That is until some months later when the staff finally broke and demanded that new blinds were installed and paint applied put in to stop them walking. The problem is that some sales people worry that they will lose an order if they start getting too involved with something that is such a personal choice anyway. They lose sight of the fact that perhaps the customer would like some help � rather than a �Yes� man just agreeing �Oh yes sir that would look fabulous!�. This is an element of service that a good supplier can easily overlook in the quest for a quick sale. One must consider that if a customer suddenly realises in a years time that it really does look awful � they�ll be looking to blame someone for such a poor choice and the salesman looks like a likely scapegoat. The end result of this is that they may never return with repeat business in case you �let� them choose something else hideous. Colour choice needs to be a considered affair. Often the colours chosen are governed by the need for a corporate logo colour, or a carpet colour to be matched. If these aren�t relevant then you can really have some fun. But remember that colours have their own psychological symbolism . Black can mean style, power, mystery, solemnity. White can mean purity, sterility, and cleanliness. Red says sex, speed, arrogance, strength, bravery and more. Blue symbolises calm, productive, confidence, conservatism, and seriousness. Unusual colours like orange mean enthusiasm, flamboyance, creativity, and playfulness. Choosing pink can have mixed messages too including appreciation, admiration, sympathy, femininity, health, love, or homosexuality. The message is clear therefore. When choosing a colour � take a moment to consider. What is the colour saying about your company to everyone that visits? Now would you like that office chair in Red, black or blue......?

Want cheap office furniture that looks great?

info@verveworkspace.co.uk — Thu, 05 Feb 2009 06:47:51 +0000 GMT

It�s one of the most common briefs that furniture dealers are presented with � and one that receives numerous different responses. �We want a stunning office � but we�re on a really tight budget�. Most dealers offer a deep sigh and think to themselves �on no - not again�. Some dealers just hang up the phone.... A good office furniture dealer will however see it as a welcome challenge � an opportunity to really show what they can do. To showcase their talents of listening to a client and drawing on experience and professionalism to provide the perfect solution. Sadly, there appear to be lots of office furniture companies that don�t hear the whole request �and only hear �we want cheap�. Even more sadly there are lots of customers who just accept mediocrity and buy a boring furniture solution on the misconception that it�s all they can afford. But it doesn�t have to be like that. A good independent supplier will take brief from their client which includes; budget, timescale, design preference, and a practical assessment of their future plans. From that they can filter the offering down to a couple of suitable ranges. This is where a customer relies on their sales persons depth of knowledge and willingness to work to find a great solution. Because each furniture manufacturer has different MFC finishes available, and each seating manufacturer has different fabrics available it is possible to pull together a package that looks much more expensive than it necessarily is. By clever selection and a bit of imagination it is possible to get exactly what the customer needs. That�s not to say that customers don�t need at times to be more realistic with their budgets. After all there�s skilled budget matching � and plain ridiculous targets too. And suppliers shouldn�t be afraid to let a customer know that perhaps their budget needs looking at. After all, a lot of work goes into a proposal and it�s wasted time if the proposal is a non starter because the customer can barely afford a basic melamine desk � when what they have asked for is a glass desk. When choosing a supplier for a new project � the key is to look for is choice. It�s no good going direct to a manufacturer as they can only sell you what they manufacturer themselves. And it�s no good choosing a supplier who boasts of having 1,000 different suppliers as they won�t know any of them in depth � and won�t get the loyalty and relationship service from their suppliers that is so important for you to get great service form your supplier. Look for independence, and look for experts. Only then can you get the very best from your budget, your office and your supplier. And be willing to look at the bigger picture rather than just choosing on the absolute cheapest option � after all you don�t buy office furniture every day � so why rush it?

The importance of being honest with your suppliers.

info@verveworkspace.co.uk — Thu, 05 Feb 2009 06:45:16 +0000 GMT

It�s the question that everyone hates to be asked � or more importantly hates to answer � �What is your budget?�. When the sales person on the other end of the line asks you this it�s not always a bad thing. The immediate reaction from many people is to assume that the person asking is being mercenary and the question is designed to deign if you are worth talking to, or if you are a cheapskate. True, there are people that ask for that reason � and you are better off hanging up there and then � but for the most part it�s a genuine question. We all have a fear that if we say �500 is the budget � that the sales person will make the item be �499 (when 60 seconds before it was �399). Or that you will be losing out on your bargaining chip if you answer honestly. Equally sometimes we have no idea what the budget is, or needs to be! How often have you purchased a multifunction colour laser, multiple paper supply, self lubricating, portable printer? Not often anyway � so how the hell am I supposed to know what the budget is? But sometimes you need to understand why they are asking. If you imagine that a good independent office furniture supplier would have perhaps 150 ranges to choose from � and with an individual desk ranging from �60 to �5,000, you can see why they ask the question. They need to know what �ball park� you need them to be in � although this may be answered by the other questions that a good sales person should be asking at the same time. The key with building a good relationship with a supplier is communication. And like life in general you can�t start a meaningful relationship based on a lie � or an untruth at least. If you really want to get what you want, then you realistically need to know what you need. If you are open and frank with a supplier and give them an opportunity to find what you need then the odds on you getting what you want are that much higher. It sounds like a very obvious statement, but how many times do we say we want something �stylish, good quality and contemporary� when what we really mean is �cheap�. If you had asked for a glass desk for �200 instead of asking for a �good quality, stylish glass desk on a sensible budget� then you wouldn�t have been offered the various solutions for �600 that your supplier has just come back to you with. You end up feeling that he hasn�t been listening, and he feels that you are wasting his time. He could have saved your time and his with a frank conversation in the beginning. He would have concentrated his efforts on showing you glass desks at between �150 and �300 � and likely would have come up with the goods! Perfect. Of course you need to find a supplier that matches your own values in business � and it�s rarely the ones that boast about being the very cheapest. If you want a supplier that offers good value, good service, and professionalism then you need to look for certain things. An informative website that focuses on product rather than price is a good start. A friendly and helpful response to a telephone call is another. An ability to listen is probably the key to a good business supplier � but an ability to speak is a vital ability on your behalf as the customer. As Bob Hoskins in that awful BT advert in the 80�s said �It�s good to talk�

Second hand furniture � the ideal solution in a tough market?

info@verveworkspace.co.uk — Thu, 05 Feb 2009 06:42:28 +0000 GMT

So you�ve seen some office furniture going cheap, because a company up the road has gone bust � or they are reducing their office needs? That works well, as you need to update your office and although it�s not brand new � it�s in alright condition. Things are a bit tight at the moment, so the �1000 cash price tag for everything there looks like a bargain against the �3000 they paid for it 4 years ago! So, you�ve paid for the furniture. Now you just need to go and collect it. There�s not that much, just 6 desks and a couple of cupboards, oh and some drawers too. There are some chairs that will do the job for the new team you�ve got starting next month. All you�ve got to do is get it collected. That takes a van and a couple of guys right? Send them down there and they can chuck it in their van, and bring it back when you are ready for it. The only problem is that it�s got to be collected by Tuesday, as the landlord is taking the building back then and if it�s not out then, it�s gone! Out come the yellow pages. Removal companies? Office movers? You explain what you need, so you arrange to meet on site. They can then look at it and give you a price for the job. You meet on site to look at the office desks, office chairs and storage cupboards too. A general array of office furniture has been left behind by the outgoing tenants � although funny that you didn�t notice that the feet were missing off that desk in the corner, and that the drawers don�t open properly on one of the pedestals. No worries � it was �cheap�. The removals man makes his notes, and makes the obligatory �It�s going to cost you� noises and intakes of breath. He comes back with a figure of �600 + VAT to remove it all and bring it to your premises. You do your own intake of breath, and decide silently that you�ll get a few of the lads in the warehouse to give you a hand and you can do it much cheaper than that on Saturday morning instead. You pass on the kind offer of the removal. You come back on Saturday with the van you hired for the job (�75) and the three lads are all there ready for the overtime for the day. (�80 each = �240). You start disassembling the furniture with the Allen keys and screwdrivers you brought along for the job, while whistling the kind of �I could do this in my sleep� whistle. You get the office desks into the van, in bits of course. Then you get to the cupboards. They are massive. They didn�t look that big in the flesh � and they can�t be disassembled easily because they have all sorts of pull out gubbins inside, and you don�t know where to start. You could undo it all no problem � but you�d never get it back together again. You do it anyway and you all struggle with the stairs and get it all in the van. Time is ticking on now, and lunchtime is here. You pop out and get the lads some fish and chips and a couple of cold cans of Coca Cola as a thank you. (�20). You finish it off and then all drive back to the office. You have to follow in your car because while it�s only a 15 minute drive � you can only fit three men in the van. You all unload the van at your offices and drag the various bits up to the office and put them in the corner of the office, ready to go back together. It�s all there, but not necessarily in the right order. Still � how hard can that be? You do notice that one of the cupboards has had a nasty bash in the van, and the door is damaged. Still, it was �cheap�. Two hours later, and you�ve got half the desks back together, one of the cupboards is assembled, but you appear to have misplaced the fittings to put the last two cupboards back together. The pull out filing frame isn�t going back in either. Nor the shelves. In the end, you admit defeat and say you�ll get the movers to come in on Monday and put it together. After all - the hard bit is done. You take the hire van back, and put diesel in it (�30). So you call the movers on Monday, and he sends out a nice man on Thursday who puts it back together as best he can with the fittings missing. (�175 � minimum day rate you see!) He also takes away the damaged bits to the tip for you � just pay the council disposal charge, and a bit of diesel. (�100) You feel quite happy with your bargain, and a job well done. Then you realise that it�s not got a warranty if the stuff falls to bits. And what about adding to it next year as the team expands. You don�t even know what the range is called, let alone where it came from originally. If you just get a desk that looks like it (a bit) then it�s going to look a mess, and two years down the line you�ll need to start again because the office is such a mess it looks like Steptoe�s yard. Still it was only cheap. Wasn�t it? You bought �3000 of furniture for �1640 � which was well worn, had no guarantee, couldn�t be added to easily, and wasn�t exactly the style statement you were hoping for. What �s the alternative though? Well, nowadays there are so many inexpensive brand new ranges being produced that the bottom line cost is not far off the total price of a second hand purchase. Plus, you get to choose the colour of the desks, you get a warranty, the dealer brings it all in during your office hours and puts it all up in half the time you could have. They take away all the packaging, and you are up and running. You get a VAT invoice, so you can get the VAT back and deduct the cost against your tax bill. Meanwhile you�ve not had to give up your precious weekend, the warehouse lads don�t ring in sick on Monday because they pulled a muscle at the weekend, and you can get on with what you are good at � running your business. Does that second hand furniture still sound like a steal?

The credit crunch and why business owners should be cautious

info@verveworkspace.co.uk — Thu, 05 Feb 2009 06:41:19 +0000 GMT

If the saying goes, �when the going gets tough � the tough get going� � does that mean there is an exact opposite to match? How about �when the going gets tough � the weak get falling� or perhaps �when the going gets tough � the greedy get suing?�. Pretty miserable thought isn�t it? To be fair to the vast majority of people, the thought of suing someone for the kind of petty nonsense that is mentioned in so many �No Win No Fee� type ambulance chasing lawyer adverts � is frankly repugnant. For those people that are misfortunate enough to walk under the ladder of destiny, and perhaps have an accident, or injury � their first thought is �how do I get better�. The second thought may be ��what just happened � was it my fault?�. Most decent people think through this process, so that they can avoid making the same mistake again. There are some folks however that their first thought is �can I make some money out of this? Who can I blame?�. It�s even been known that people think of remembering the number for �Claims direct� before even calling the ambulance. And it�s these kind of people that are the dangerous kind. You see, these type of thoughts aren�t just coming from nowhere. No � when someone is feeling the economic pinch, creative minds start to think about filling their fiscal gap. They may had previously considered other easy �revenue producing� methods such as borrowing off their granny, or winning the lottery. There are even the types that are keeping their eyes open for an opportunity to find fault, so they can sue for damages, negligence and more. You may think that you wouldn�t know anyone that would do such a thing, but in reality � you may! A disgruntled employee could have a chance slip in the office, or a tumble off a chair � and that�s where the problems could start. If the staff member is unhappy, or feel unappreciated (for any reason) then that twisted knee, or �back injury� could be their meal ticket. If they push the right buttons, they could even get some compensation off you � and then when you are unhappy paying them out, and you get rid of them � they start again to get another payment for unfair dismissal. So �What can I do about that?� I hear you say. Well, the truth is you can�t help it if people have an accident most of the time. You�ve just got to make sure that you are keeping a lookout for the basics, and making sure everything is documented. When people look around their office environments and look at the normal things like office furniture, office chairs, PC monitors and cable management � they are often warned that things are in breach of �Health and safety� or �The fire officer wouldn�t like that!�. Many directors respond with �I�ve been in business for 23 years and have never had a �visit� yet! As if to say � I�m not going to get caught out, because who�s going to tell on me? And that probably used to be true. However, nowadays even when a labour government employs a veritable army of �elf and safety inspectors and they have more powers than ever � that may not be the problem. The problem may be that in an increasingly litigious environment, a greedy staff member may use any breach as grounds to force their �personal injury� case to court to get some more of your hard earned cash. Don�t think this doesn�t happen � or it�s just unquantifiable scaremongering � because in the last few years there have been literally dozens of cases going to court and winning substantial sums form their employers. In 2000 alone, there were 194 successful cases, where employees won an average of �6,500 for just having inappropriate chairs in their workplace. The message? Get your house (or more importantly office) in order. It doesn�t mean go over the top with regulations, but just make certain that your procedures are in place, and they are being followed and documented. Most of it comes down to common sense, and just making sure that your staff are using theirs. It doesn�t have to be a pig of a job � but rather that than someone raids your piggy bank.

The A & D community � why they so often hate office furniture suppliers?

info@verveworkspace.co.uk — Thu, 05 Feb 2009 06:40:11 +0000 GMT

Okay, so we may be generalising a little here � not every architect and designer hates every office furniture company. But, there has been comments made in the industry that suggests that office furniture suppliers could probably do with listening to. And acting on as well.... Firstly the biggest complaint is that there seems to be no mutual understanding or appreciation of how the other works. Too many suppliers appear to feel that if they dress like an architect, that they will somehow relate to them better. As if by going all �designery� they will somehow be more appealing. As if architects are so gullible they will fall for an image alone. Suppliers coining phrases like �The A&D community� doesn�t endear either� it just annoys. It�s frankly regarded by many as patronising and in some way belittles the work that designers do. They don�t refer to themselves in such a way � so why should a supplier? And suppliers need to come out of the 1980�s and realise that it may be their top priority to see the designer � but it�s unlikely to be the top of the designers list. Stop trying to get a �rep� in the door � and just be ready with the right information � when it�s needed! Sending out �over the top� marketing literature which often ends up in the bin is wasteful and more than a bit unnecessary. The message seems clear � the role of interior designers and architectural practices is changing. With the onslaught in recent years of home design TV programmes such as BBC �Changing Rooms� � people have finally woken to the importance of good looking, considered interiors. This has now become regarded as essential, and if suppliers can get their act together to work with designers and specifiers effectively � then everyone�s a winner. So what does all this mean for the humble furniture supplier trying to make a living from selling desks, receptions, seating and boardrooms? It�s not that complicated really � and common sense when you think about it. And it all comes down to service. And service comes down to listening to your customers needs. Designers want a supplier that actually takes a sustained interest in a project. That means looking after the basics like making sure wood samples and fabric swatches arrive on time. Thereby saving anyone having to make a �chase up� telephone call. If and when orders are placed with a supplier, the individual sales person must take a certain level of ownership and responsibility for seeing it through to the end. That means taking seriously the delivery date promised, and other assurances that were given to get the order in the first place. Many office furniture suppliers � predominantly manufacturers � still feel it is acceptable to be passively rude. As if they are irreplaceable � as if they are the only suppliers available. This aloof attitude is often accompanied by poor general service, lack of focus, and snobbiness that we all hoped had disappeared years ago. Instead this inverted snobbery needs to be replaced with a true desire to be the best in the industry. Making consistent fabulous service and relationship building the order of the day. Only then will the architects, designers, and specifiers feel that they are valued and understood. After all � if everyone in a chain puts the maximum effort into their own role � then only the best can come out at the other end. And once one has had the best � why settle (or look) for anything else?

AIR AMBULANCE SAVES MONEY AGAIN WITH DIRECT MAIL SERVICE

phil@ovcc.com — Mon, 26 Jan 2009 11:07:56 +0000 GMT

In January 2008 the Warwickshire Northants Air Ambulance approached the Direct Mail Service about mailing out their donor brochure. Only 3000 Brochures were mailed but by using the Direct Mail Service and the available discounts they were able to save the Air Ambulance over �683 on their postal bill! This means that after taking out the cost of the mailing services the charity still saved over �300! Andy Williamson, WNAA said �The service and the cost saving we received from the Direct Mail Service was quite incredible. They saved us over �600 on postage and we normally have had to spend a week using our fundraisers to stuff the mailing.� So it was no surprise when the charity approached Direct Mail Service in January 2009 to the same again and the saving is just the same! The message is if you are mailing over 1000 Large Letters (A4/C4 Envelope) or over 4000 letters there are savings to be taken! Please visit wwww.directmailservice.co.uk to find out more!

18/10, 18/8 or 18/0 Stainless Steel Cutlery?

sales@dinebydesign.co.uk — Mon, 22 Dec 2008 17:03:49 +0000 GMT

High Quality -18/10 Stainless Steel is the highest level of quality containing 18% chromium which provides the stainless steel with strength and durability, whilst the 10% nickel content provides shine and rust resistance. All DineByDesign stainless steel products are 18/10 stainless steel. Medium Quality - 18/8 Stainless Steel is the most commonly used stainless steel which contains 18% Chromium and 8% Nickel. Although better quality than 18/0, it is not as rust and acid resistant as 18/10. Low Quality - 18/0 Stainless Steel does not contain any nickel. Consequently it is not very resistant to acidic foods and may rust as it is a poor quality of stainless steel.

Finest Crockery Sets from DineByDesign

sales@dinebydesign.co.uk — Mon, 22 Dec 2008 15:02:27 +0000 GMT

Sourced from the finest designers around the world, Dine by Design bring you a selected range of crockery from contemporary to traditional and designer to suite all occations. The Finest Tableware Make your dining experience something to celebrate with the finest tableware selected from top designers across the world. Buy sophisticated tableware normally only available to trade, bought to you by mail order carefully packaged. We will deliver directly to you from our stock sources throughout europe. Tableware Specialists - the finest Collections Anyone who loves entertaining, and loves the good quality things in life will love tableware from Dine by Design. We want to be your number one choice for all your tableware products. So we promise to stock the best tablware products for you here in the UK. And we promise to bring you ideas for entertaining, good food and wine to help you put on the best dining events. If you have any questions you would like to ask us about our products and services feel free to contact us online and we will call you back.

Verve Workspace - Moving Office Furniture on...

info@verveworkspace.co.uk — WedPMGMTE_RFebruaryC822

Our Office Furniture business is now in our 5th year. We have decided to take the opportunity to refresh things with a new brand name and new website. It's the same people, the same high level of service and expertise - and of course are prices are still fantastic! We have added to our many office furniture ranges, and have also extended our popular interior refurbishment services too! The word 'Verve' means passion, enthusiasm and creativity. And that's what we provide - no matter what you need - from one chair, to a complete office refit. We offer a 'non pushy' approach to sales, working at your pace. We make sure you get the best advice, service and value possible. That's why so many of our customers come back to us - Why not see what we can really do for your business? Steve Allan � Director Steve started his own office furniture business in 2004, after working with some of the most prominent names in the industry. He started the company because he loves furniture and interior design, but felt that overall things could be improved for the customer. Steve is passionate about furniture and making sure our customers get the right advice as well as service levels that will delight.

Specialist Home Information Pack Providers

kb@mymoveconveyancing.com — Mon, 22 Sep 2008 12:37:02 +0100 GMT

MYMOVEHIPs are providers of Home Information Packs (HIPs), across England an Wales, to: Home Movers Introducers MYMOVEHIPS are part of JS Law, one of the largest independent suppliers of conveyancing services and Home Information Packs. MYMOVEHIPS use of advanced technology ensures that the process of moving is managed efficiently and at an affordable cost. Above all, the company is dedicated to providing a superior level of service, which is based upon speed and professionalism. When you sell your home you are required to get a HIP. You can either get your HIP through your Estate Agent at the beginning of the sales process, or you can buy directly from MYMOVEHIP. MYMOVEHIP offers all clients competitive prices, fast turnarounds and a high quality product.

IT Support and IT Consultants in central London

Steve.Taylor@technologymoves.co.uk — Mon, 22 Sep 2008 12:21:37 +0100 GMT

The TechnologyMoves Group provide technology infrastructure design & fit-out, relocation and IT support services to the corporate and residential sectors. Based in Central London, the TechnologyMoves Group works closely with clients to fully understand their business strategy and to work with them to develop technology solutions which meet their business needs. Technology Moves Consultancy Experienced IT fit out and relocation project management for office and large residential projects Technology Moves Support Providing the very latest IT solutions and IT support services for professional services. Please call us on 0844 335 0382 or e-mail us at info@technologymoves.co.uk to discuss your requirements in more detail.

Running Club in Northamptonshire - Silson Joggers

web@silsonjoggers.org.uk — Fri, 06 Jun 2008 15:02:49 +0100 GMT

If you enjoy running to keep fit, perhaps on your own or with a group of friends you may be interested in joining Silson Joggers for a training session. Joining a running club like ours only costs you �10 per year. For that you make loads of new friends, can enjoy regular traning sessions in Northampton and Silverstone, run in friendly competitive races all across the East Midlands and have people to encourage you as you find new fitness targets. check the new Silson Joggers website at www.silsonjoggers.org.uk to see information about us, photos, race dates, training details and our own mini newsletter. So dont hold back - we welcome any enquiries about joining. Find all the info you want on the website. Oh and I forgot to mention. Our home circuit is the Silverstone Racing Track. We train there in the winter and host races there during the year. Our 10k race was enjoyed by 1000 runners in 2008!

Pubs and Cafe Bars in London from Food and Fuel Pubs

peterm@foodandfuel.co.uk — Wed, 20 Feb 2008 12:25:21 +0000 GMT

Food and Fuel launched websites for all of its pubs in February 2008. Pub and Bar details: The Prince Regent Lovely gastro pub in Gloucester Road, close to Kensington Gardens, Hyde Park, The Albert Hall and the museums of South Kensington. Come and eat in the elegant, airy dining room or to drink at the busy bar. Great lunches too � and breakfast at weekends. The Prince Regent, 25 Gloucester Road, London SW7 4PL. Tel: 020 7589 0905. W: www.ThePrinceRegentGloucesterRoad.co.uk The Queens Our ornate Victorian gem in the heart of Crouch End, built originally as a hotel. Lovely food in a dining room with the best ceiling in town, a wonderful bar and a very pretty garden combine to make this a genuinely enjoyable place to go. The Queens, 26 Broadway Parade, Crouch End, London N8 9DE. Tel: 020 8340 2031. W: www.TheQueensCrouchEnd.co.uk The Roebuck Winner of many plaudits since opening in October 2006, The Roebuck serves exceptional food. Runner-up in Time Out�s Gastropub of the Year in 2007, having been open for less than a year, this airy, spacious pub deserves its praise. Come for the lovely garden, the food generally, the amazing Sunday lunch or for a drink in the very busy pub. It�s all reliably excellent. The Roebuck, 122 High Road, Chiswick W4 1PU. Tel: 020 8995 4392. W: www.TheRoebuckChiswick.co.uk. Coco Momo Cafe Bar Coco Momo is our pretty caf�-bar in everyone�s favourite shopping street, Marylebone High Street. Come early for lunch as it gets packed: you can also pop in for coffee or tea and cakes and the buzzing bar in the evening is the place to come for a cocktail, a glass of beer or wine and a great atmosphere. Coco Momo also has a wide and wonderful pavement terrace, all the better for people-watching.Fantastic place to meet, eat and drink. Coco Momo Cafe Bar, 79 Marylebone High Street, London W1U 5JZ. Tel: 020 7486 5746. W: www.CocoMomo.co.uk The Queens Arms A Pimlico gem very close to Victoria: a buzzing pub downstairs and a really lovely upstairs dining room. Delicious food, excellent ales and wines and a lovely big pavement terrace. Wonderful lunch deal � get there early! The Queens Arms, 11 Warwick Way, Pimlico SW1V 1QT. Tel: 020 7834 3313. W: www.TheQueensArmsPimlico.co.uk The Duke This lovely gastropub sits between the bustle of Richmond High Street and the open space of Richmond Green, close to the theatre and the train station. Excellent food and an elegant dining room, combined with a beautiful Victorian bar make this a great place to have lunch, supper or to meet friends for a drink. The Duke, 2 Duke Street, Richmond TW1 1HP. Tel: 0208 940 4067. W: www.thedukerichmond.co.uk The Prince of Wales Almost next to Battersea Park�s Sun Gate, this big Victorian pub is the perfect place to go before or after that walk. The prettiest garden in south-west London, plus an amazing grill that makes the most delicious grilled meats � try the sausage sandwich! Fabulous carve-your-own Sunday roasts, great ales and wines and all the big matches on big screens. The Prince of Wales, 186 Battersea Bridge Road, Battersea SW11 3AE. Tel: 0207 228 0395. W: www.ThePrinceofWalesBattersea.co.uk The Sporting Page A true Chelsea landmark: come and take a chair on our heated pavement terrace and enjoy the premium ales and lagers or a glass of wine. Packed in summer, The Sporting Page is the ideal place to meet friends, have lunch or enjoy a Sunday roast. True to its name, there is no better place to watch the big matches on a very big screen. The Sporting Page, 6 Camera Place, Chelsea SW10 0BH. Tel: 0207 349 0455. W: www.thesportingpagechelsea.co.uk Mel's Cafe Bar One of our two caf�-bars, Mel�s (run of course by the eponymous Mel herself) is now firmly established in Earlsfield as the best local place to eat delicious food and drink a well-kept pint or a glass of good wine. And it has the prettiest garden around. Drop in for coffee, a great-value lunch, drinks, a snack or dinner � Mel�s does it all supremely well. Mel's Cafe Bar, 573 Garratt Lane, Earlsfield SW18 4ST. Tel: 0208 944 5718 . W: www.melscafebar.co.uk Lots Road Pub Time Out called us "a local beacon of brilliance". Find us just off the Kings Road opposite the entrance to Chelsea Harbour. Wonderful for a drink, delicious food ( try the Sunday lunch) and a marvellous place to meet. Lots Road Pub, 114 Lots Road, London SW10 0RJ . Tel: 020 7352 6645. W: www.lotsroadpub.co.uk

Christmas Cards for business in 2007

nigel@printer-online.co.uk — Fri 28 Sep 2007 06:43:23 GMT

ORDER YOUR CHRISTMAS CARDS BEFORE 31 OCT AND RECEIVE A 10% DISCOUNT From standard layouts to bespoke designs for larger quantities of cards. The 2007 Christmas card range is bigger than ever so you can be sure of finding a design that exactly matches your requirements. There are five collections for you to choose from, Noel, Traditional Greetings , Christmas Impressions, Cool Yule, and Help. We also have a range of personalised calendars. Our new ranges offer you an unparalleled level of customisation allowing you to project your corporate or personal image exactly as YOU want. Many designs enable you to incorporate photographs, perhaps a business portfolio or a family snapshot. The best in design, the finest materials, coupled with high quality print processes and a stunning selection of finishes including impactful metallic foils and intricate embossing, mean our Personalised Christmas cards are second to none. Your personal greeting will be printed on a premium quality insert, giving a luxurious feel to your finished cards.

Business Strategy - plot your path to success

martin.lissenburg@economatics.co.uk — Fri 21 Sep 2007 16:43:32 GMT

�Good morning; before we start can I ask you to close your eyes, stand up and point towards Paris. Thank you; you can open your eyes now�. There�s a problem; twenty people in the room and there are twenty different directions. What�s worse, not one of them is actually pointing towards Paris! Well, it could be worse; one person might know the direction, but not be believed or be able to communicate assertively that they know. This is what it feels like to be in a Business without a clearly defined and communicated strategy. Where are we going? What am I supposed to be doing? What do you need form me? Why do we duplicate effort or leave gaps? Who are our competitors? Have we asked our customers, recently, what they really want? The list could go on! Strategy is often devalued by being seen as �high level� and without any action orientation. In fact, nothing could be further from the truth for a good strategy � it should galvanise a Business. The purpose of the �whole� should be clear and the parts of the individuals precisely and compatibly mapped. Is strategy �difficult�? I don�t think so, but it can be horrendously over-complicated. Documents an inch thick are unlikely to galvanise Businesses � more likely to constipate them! There are two important pre-requisites for a successful working strategy. Firstly, a thorough situation analysis looking at all the internal and external factors that impact the Businesses opportunity to make money. This will help to identify the positioning of the Business (and its tactics) to look attractively different in the market. Much of this �analysis� should be done before any strategy meeting, not left to chance as part of the agenda. Does, �it�s about�..�; �we�ve got around�.�; �that will do for now, I�ll ask when I�m back in the office�, ring a bell? There will always be some subjectivity (for example in market sizing), but too much is a strategy killer and leads, inevitably, to problems with the second important pre-requisite; the requirement for absolute buy-in across the Organisation. If you have a politically fractured Business, then you�re on a sticky wicket to start with; even here, good strategy can limit the damage! But in an Organisation with a positive culture, ensuring a broad cross-functional input, healthy debate and ultimate agreement, will ensure complete synergy across the Business and lead to money-making success in an enjoyable environment. History has shown that, be it in Warfare or Business, those with a good strategy prevail and prosper! Martin Lissenburg has extensive experience of Strategy Development, gained in Blue Chip Organisations and through supporting clients. If you can see that your business would benefit from a structured approach and would value support, then call Martin on 07949 900892 or e-mail, martin@mlissenburg.freeserve.co.uk

Saving Energy and the Environment

martin.lissenburg@economatics.co.uk — Wed 19 Sep 2007 13:34:10 GMT

Supply of Compressed Air can represent up to 15% of the energy costs for a process manufacturer. As a utility totally in control of the host, it seems a good place to start Energy Save campaigns, writes Martin Lissenburg A couple of months ago, I finally watched �An Inconvenient Truth�, a film highlighting Al Gore�s crusade to bring climate change to the fore. This film presents data that makes it virtually impossible to ignore the human impact on climate change. One �scene� that particularly sticks in my mind relates to the variation in Carbon Dioxide concentration over time. For thousands of years, the line oscillates around a consistent value, up until the last few decades of the time axis; it then rapidly rises to the top of the chart and shows no sign of return! The Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change, 2007 Summary for Policymakers, paints exactly the same picture; in virtually all measured parameters, the increases over the last decade far exceed those due to historic natural cycles, some measured over the previous hundreds of thousands of years. How do we wake from this sleepwalk? Well, clearly global governmental action is vital, but we shouldn�t underestimate the impact of many �small� actions both at home and at work. Because air is all around us, there is a risk of seeing it as a free commodity � of course it isn�t. Driving air around a plant takes energy and, often, is done very inefficiently. Just think of how often you can hear the air supply! Leaks mean misplaced energy. Compressed Air is commonly used in Industrial facilities (~90% have air use in their processes). It is a utility completely in control of the host business and payback, on energy save schemes, is usually less than a year; so, it is a very good place to start energy efficiency campaigns. The process starts with an Engineer �walking the site�, as it is vital to take a view of the complete air system. This is supported, if necessary, with air-leak detection and, always, by data logging of the Compressor. The data collection is critical as it gives quantified output that can be acted upon. The data logging process usually lasts around two weeks � long enough for all variations in duty to be monitored. Our experience shows that the holistic approach to the air system brings �nested� savings. For example, work with a customer � a well known manufacturer of roofing products � identified the need for a reduction in operating pressure, the fixing of numerous leaks and the opportunity for diversion of �waste� heat, from the Compressor, into the workshop during winter, saving alternative heating costs. The total saving was �25,000 per annum. The focus often falls, however, on the capital equipment in the process. A Packaging Manufacturer in the North-East found, after the energy appraisal, that their Compressor � a 75kW Rotary Screw � was spending significant amounts of time running off-load. The Compressor was sized to meet certain air demands during the production process, but the demand was variable due to the overall operation of equipment in the factory. This is not an atypical situation in a manufacturing plant. An Inverter Drive was specified and fitted to the Compressor, such that air was supplied to accurately meet demand requirements, with improved pressure control. The result was a 28% energy reduction over the year and payback for the total project was 12 months. A further benefit was reduction in the excessive wear and tear on the Compressor. The manufacturer is now looking at similar savings on eleven other sites in their Group, plus other areas of energy save. A further case study relates to the requirement for high quality air � but supplied efficiently. This manufacturer of rock and asphalt products was using a 550cfm Desiccant Dryer, with the associated filtration, to provide its air quality, with standard (timer based) controls for the conditioning and cycling operation. A Dewpoint Switching Controller was specified and installed, such that the Dryer would only condition and cycle as required by the process. This has given a 58% saving in energy usage and payback is eight months, plus the additional benefit of significant reduction in wear and tear. The above expertise can be applied to any �process motor�. An Automotive Component Manufacturers paint finishing plant utilised four pumps operating continuously, but damped to 60% flow by valves in the pipe-work system. Following the energy appraisal, Inverter Drives were installed to each pump motor, allowing the valves to be opened fully and, operating with a transducer, to provide the flow required by the process. The saving in energy was 48% per annum, with payback in nine months. This customer is now reviewing other process applications critically for energy savings. Similar expertise has been applied to process motors used for extraction and air movement, with the same impact on efficiency. Economatics has 40 years of experience in Compressed Air, with a mission to aid the efficiency of British Industry. It launched ECONERGY (Economical Energy) last year, as a business unit dedicated to helping customers identify and implement energy save opportunities and, in turn, save money. Contact Econergy on the Hotline 0121 359 8303 or e-mail econergy@economatics.co.uk Martin Lissenburg is a Business Improvement Specialist, with many years of experience in strategy development, honing sales and marketing processes and output, campaign creation and implementation, and sharpening of customer data. He worked in senior positions for several blue-chip industrial companies, facilitating business growth and development, before starting his own business, Inspire, in 2005. He worked with Economatics in developing and communicating their offer to market. Call Martin on 07949 900892.

Free Top Ten Tips to Maximize your direct mail

phil@ovcc.com — Wed, 22 Aug 2007 09:20:33 GMT

Yes, finally revealed free of charge are the Top Ten Tips that will help you turbo charge your direct mail. Most businesses want to do direct mail but are put of by either the poor responses they have had before or do not know where to start. I have gathered together Ten Top Tips for Direct Mail that if followed will enable your business to get the best possible returns from their mailshots. This information is totally free just buy visiting the direct mail service website @ www.directmailservice.co.uk and requesting the CD you will be on your way to the getting the response you require. Good Luck with your future marketing campaigns! Phil Hutchinson