The Launch of the Northern Asian Power Group
Amarjit Singh, Chairman of YABA was invited to the official launch of the Northern Asian Power Group this month. The launch was hosted at the House of Lords by the Rt Hon. Baroness Warsi of Dewsbury. Baroness Warsi is resolute in ensuring that Asian Businesses located in the North region have a strong position in any strategic decision-making being discussed by Northern Powerhouse and not simply left on the side-line or as an after-thought. The Baroness stated, ‘I am pleased that the Northern Asian Power Group has a focus to support ‘Power Up the North’, and to pledge the Asian Business community’s commitment, contribution and engagement to support the Northern Powerhouse’.
Guest speaker and Minister for Northern Powerhouse, Jake Berry echoed Baroness Warsi’s sentiments and listened attentively to the varied presentations from the following members of the Northern Asian Power Group:
Altaf Sadique from Ganedata, Naveen Ahmed for Roomzzz and Icon Inc., Manni Boss ™️, chair of 88M group, Asghar Ali at My Lahore, the CBE President of the Federation of Asian Business, Ammar Mirza and the Leader of Kirklees Council, Shabir Pandor.
Also invited on the guest list was Nicky Chance-Thompson, CEO of The Piece Hall who commented that ‘the Asian Business Community, a large contributor to the UK economy, is being profiled as it should be’. Concluding remarks were made by Rob Holmes the Director of Business Development (Europe, Asia, Middle East) for Squire Patton Boggs who sponsored the event.
India and the Northern Powerhouse recognise the strong connections between the UK Northern Powerhouse and India and to point to future engagement and collaboration.
There are currently strong connections in place between India and the Northern Powerhouse who both recognise a future of engagement and collaboration between the economies of India and the UK as progressive. Chaired by Rt. Hon. Virendra Sharma MP, Chairman, Indo-British All Party Parliamentary Group (APPG), India and the Northern Powerhouse, a recent roundtable gave invite to positioning statements from Manish Singh the Minister(Economic) Indian High Commission of London, Lakshmi Kaul, Head and Representative of Confederation of Indian Industry (CII-UK), Lord Bilimoria of Chelsea, CBE, DL, Vijay Goel, Chairman of Assocham, UK, Ammar Mirza CBE, Federation of Asian Business Association, Amarjit Singh, Chairman of the Yorkshire Asian Business Association and Henri Murison, Director at The Northern Powerhouse Partnership.
The concepts behind the Northern Powerhouse resonate with the business community and what has transpired from these discussions is that it makes sense to build upon those concepts further to move forwards. The main objectives of the roundtable were to galvanise the wider networks in the North of England, and to further explore opportunities in India, creating a programme of work supported through close links with UK Government, the Indian High Commission and members of the Asian diaspora, the ‘Living Bridge’, as referred to by Prime Minister Modi.
Amarjit Singh shared news that YABA will be organising the Northern Powerhouse trade mission to India on 22nd November through to 29th November 2019 where there will be visits to Delhi, Chandigarh and Mumbai. The mission programme will include meetings with Government and business leaders in order to explore how the UK’s Northern Powerhouse and India can work together further for the benefit of both countries.
‘There is an opportunity for the UK to become a key knowledge partner for India and for us to help India access the innovation taking place in our country’, Amarjit Singh, Chairman of YABA.
Whatever concerns UK business has with the outcomes of Brexit after 31st October, it is clear that the long-term future for Britain and India is optimistic.
For further information about the trade mission going to India please contact sharon@yaba.uk.com, your business could be eligible for grant funding.
Celebrating and shining a spotlight on the diverse nature of Kirklees
The Kirklees Diversity and Inclusion Awards aim to give acclaim to successful individuals, businesses and community organisations who regard diversity as a ‘gift that cultivates an inclusive Kirklees, making the region a friendly and welcome place for everyone, regardless of their background, religion or economic status.
At the launch event Leader of Kirklees Council, Shabir Pandor stated ‘We want to celebrate, shine a spotlight on the diverse nature of Kirklees and the valuable contribution this makes to the place. Through our awards we want to recognise and reward organisations that are passionate about inclusion and diversity and inventive in their means of achieving it’. He went on to commit that ‘We want to engage a wide spectrum of partners, including community groups and local businesses.’
The awards will give recognition and reward to people, organisations and teams that are passionate about inclusion and diversity, especially those who strive to include people who might otherwise be excluded from activities and opportunities. The awards aim to acknowledge those who are inventive in the ways that they achieve that inclusion.
Amarjit Singh, Chairman of YABA spoke fervently ‘Diversity is not a luxury but a necessity. It should be more than a tick box exercise in our rapidly changing world, it is the way forward to sustainable development and growth’.
There is an abundance of easily accessible information about the awards, and a simple online nomination process, so if you would like to nominate someone please visit this web site: https://www.kirklees.gov.uk/beta/inclusion-and-diversity-awards/about-nominating.aspx
The Kirklees Diversity Inclusion Awards ceremony is taking place on Friday 15th November 2019.
For further information about the ceremony please contact sharon@global-enterprise-links.co.uk, +44 (0)7807 47488 ‘Global Enterprise Links LTD is working on behalf of Kirklees Council’
Inspire to Succeed Project
As part of Groundwork and the UK’s European Social Funding, YABA will be partnering with Carlton Bolling College and the University Academy of Keighley on a mission of supplying guest speakers to the school and to the parents of the children attending. There will be the offer of a pre-employment programme delivered through engagement, training and volunteering. The idea behind the partnering is that the programme will act as a “stepping stone” for families to engage with new work opportunities.
Chairman of YABA, Amarjit Singh informed that the ‘goal will be to work through the school and work with the parents of the children attending the school to offer the opportunity of new skills and employment opportunities, raising self-esteem and self-confidence’. How does the programme intend to achieve this? ‘We will boost skills by delivering transferable skills based on real jobs. Opening up opportunities, the unemployed will gain practical employability skills as we will approach members of YABA and encourage them to offer work experience. This will not only increase skills, but nurture real work ethics and increase a participants chance of gaining sustainable work alongside the prospect to progress.’
Complementing the practical skills given by members of YABA, the participants will also attend workshops led by qualified employability tutors holding PGCE qualifications and equivalent industry experience.
Please contact sharon@yaba.uk.com if you would like to get involved
Corporate members NEWS
Accelerate is a 6 month acceleration programme for ambitious businesses based in the Leeds City Region.
Unlock your business potential, overcome your growth barriers and gain access to expert advice via our programme of support.
Programme Benefits
A series of 1 day Masterclasses covering key topics such as Planning for Growth and Strategic Sales & Marketing
Online learning materials
Work with a cohort of like-minded people
A dedicated key account manager
An initial diagnostic to help identify your strengths and development needs
A bespoke programme of support for your growth journey
One to One advice from our University academic and industry experts
Opportunities to collaborate on research projects
Access to student and graduate talent via recruitment, internships and placements
Access to grants and funding
PR support to push out good news about your business
Increase your network through Leeds Beckett and partner events
Is this for me?
Funded by the European Regional Development Fund, Accelerate at Leeds Beckett University is part of the AD:VENTURE programme. It aimed at businesses who are:
1) Looking to grow and create jobs in the Leeds City Region
2) Delivering their product or services to other businesses rather than direct to the consumer.
3) Looking for a structured programme, with flexible one to one support, which will keep you on track to help achieve your goals.
How do I join?
Our programme is delivered in 6 month cohorts, three times a year. Our first cohort will start in September 2019. We envisage this being a popular acceleration programme, if you don’t make it on to your preferred cohort we will endeavour to get you on to the next one.
First Cohort – Masterclass dates
21st October – Planning for Growth
07th November – Strategic Sales and Marketing
18th November – Building Resources & Capabilities
03rd December – Executing Growth
Leeds Beckett University is a proud partner in the Ad:Venture programme. We appreciate the vital role entrepreneurs and growing businesses have to play in our City-Region’s economy and through this programme we will be able to support more businesses to grow by matching specific business needs to our academic and business experts. Simon Baldwin, Head of Enterprise and Operations
Contact Us To register your interest, or to find out if your business is eligible for support, please contact us: T: 0113 812 5977 E:adventure@leedsbeckett.ac.uk
The Mid Yorkshire Chamber of Commerce
The Mid Yorkshire Chamber of Commerce stands at the heart of business communities across Huddersfield, Halifax and Wakefield.
Striving to drive economic growth across the district, the Mid Yorkshire Chamber of Commerce provides localised representation, a community voice and unprecedented support for businesses of all sizes.
The Mid Yorkshire Chamber of Commerce understands the challenges business owners face daily and uses members’ experience and connections to provide businesses with the tools they need to thrive in a tough economic environment. In addition Chamber membership offers a range of member benefits and company savings.
If you are interested in joining, you can find out more about the benefits of membership by visiting: https://www.mycci.co.uk/about-us/why-join-the-chamber
T: 01484 483 660 E: info@mycci.co.uk W: www.mycci.co.uk
RSM is committed to creating an inclusive culture with a level playing field for all.
As part of RSM’s strategy to improve diversity in all its UK offices, BAME (Black, Asian, and Minority Ethnic) and LGBT+ champions have been put in place for every region across the firm to help us to ‘get the conversation going’. Whether its establishing BAME and LGBT+ groups to promote and celebrate diversity in the firm or making sure careers in audit, tax and consulting are available to everyone, we are committed to creating a diverse and inclusive culture.
In 2018, BAME champions were introduced to cover the Leeds, Newcastle and Hull offices [or “to the North East region”], with the objective of not just promoting diversity internally but raising awareness of its importance in the local community. This year, these offices have celebrated Eid, supported Holocaust awareness week and in October will celebrate Diwali. The Leeds office works closely with YABA and local universities and schools, while the Hull office sponsors the Freedom Festival, which not only promotes freedom, equality and diversity but recognises local and international talent.
RSM’s champions act as a focal point for discussion on BAME issues for each local region and office. They are representatives that anyone can approach with comments or suggestions on how the firm can ensure it is creating a truly inclusive workforce which welcomes and represents all identities.
In addition to our commitment to diversity and inclusion in the firm, in February 2019, RSM signed the Time to Change pledge and is working towards reducing the stigma around talking about mental health. The Leeds office in particular has made mental health awareness a priority, offering a series of workshops, as well as yoga, fitness and language classes, a book club and a workplace choir, as ways of managing stress and promoting self-care amongst its staff.
Leeds Trinity University
Have recently launched a professional mentoring programme, and are looking for mentors to participate
I was hoping your could put something in your newsletter to signpost interested employers to our mentor application form. If I put together some wording for you, is this something you would please be able to do?
For further information please contact Cassie Good Graduate Employment Manager +44 (0) 113 283 7151 | c.good@leedstrinity.ac.uk | leedstrinity.ac.uk
Federation of Small Businesses
As experts in business, we offer our members a wide range of vital business services including advice, financial expertise, support and a powerful voice in government. Our mission is to help smaller businesses achieve their ambitions.
Established over 40 years ago to help our members succeed in business, we are a non-profit making and non-party political organisation that’s led by our members, for our members.
Members get an exclusive package of great value business services including advice, financial products and support. These cover a wide range of benefits such as tax, legal and HR, local network groups and business banking.
We don’t only provide fantastic membership benefits – FSB is also the UK’s leading business campaigner, focused on delivering change which supports smaller businesses to grow and succeed.
For more information please contact Barney Mynott Development Manager
Federation of Small Businesses M 07711486686 www.fsb.org.uk
Great Annual Savings Package
GREAT ANNUAL SAVINGS is offering you the opportunity to slash your business energy costs and to potentially save thousands of pounds every year.
Why switch to GAS?
• GAS guarantees to beat your business energy renewal quote from your current supplier;
• A genuine single point of contact will be provided to handle all your account enquiries;
• GAS contracts range from between 1 and 5 years. GAS is one of the few energy suppliers to offer 5 year contracts;
• GAS spreads the cost of your energy bills over the year to minimise seasonal fluctuation, proven to help to improve your business’ cash flow. Bills are paid by a fixed monthly Direct Debit amount which is worked out simply by using previous year’s energy consumption;
• Meter readings are regularly obtained to ensure your bills are accurate;
• All GAS employees are UK based staff with all customer contact being handled by a team of specialist account managers operating from the UK..
How do I sign up?
Email dale.linehan@greatannualsavings.co.uk quoting reference ‘YABA Promotion’ in the subject field and provide the following:
• An attachment of a full copy of your latest energy bill (please send all pages of your energy bill);
• Confirmation of your current energy contract end date;
• Your business name and registration number (if a limited company).
GAS will provide a fixed price energy price within 3 business days and should you wish to accept the quote, GAS will e-mail across a contract to sign. Following receipt of your contract, and once the usual credit checks come back as a pass, your energy supply will transfer across once your current contract ends.
Contact Dale Linehan, Partnership Manager, Great Annual Savings on 07932339925 for further information. For more information about Great Annual Savings visit www.greatannualsavings.co.uk
CATAX Tax Relief
Catax are experts in specialist areas of tax relief for limited companies and owners of commercial property. They specialise in Embedded Capital Allowances on commercial property, Research & Development (R&D) tax credits and Patent Box tax relief for limited companies.
With over ten years of experience, they have identified over £230m in tax benefit for clients to date. The average client benefit is £49,000 for Capital Allowances and £54,000 for R&D and Patent Box.
They have a strong track record in assisting owners of care homes, guest houses, hotels, office blocks, warehouses / factories and any other type of commercial property where an Embedded Capital Allowances claim can be made.
Catax also specialise in Research & Development (R&D) tax credits. You would be surprised by what is eligible for R&D tax relief, it’s not just for people in white lab coats, activities can range from automation to development of innovative recipes and formulae.
To find out more information, please contact Ian Patrick on 07748 766842 or ian.patrick@catax.com
Changes ahead for card payments and why undertaking an independent review with Acceptcards will benefit YABA members
by Richard Bradley, CEO of Acceptcards
The payments industry is constantly changing, with a variety of ways a business can be charged by the card processing companies, including how they choose to pass on reductions in fees levied on them by Visa & MasterCard.
As a result, there are many reasons for undertaking an independent review with a broker who can cover the whole market on pricing and with an unrivalled knowledge of the various solutions and technologies available.
I’m delighted that Acceptcards, as corporate members of YABA, are here to support all businesses in Yorkshire who accept card payments, whether it’s card present, phone or on-line payments. I’ve listed below a few of the key changes taking place in the world of card payments and how a FREE consultation can help your business.
International Cards – Pricing is reducing significantly
Of interest to any business accepting cards issued outside the EEA, from October 2019 the charge levied by Visa/MasterCard for personal cards will be the same as EEA issued cards. For chip and pin transactions this can be as much as 1.5% less, so worth a review to ensure this reduction will be passed on in full.
Reducing surcharges – Payments classed as Non-Secure
Ensure pricing is fair, as payments taken by phone and through a website should be the same or only fractionally higher than those taken by chip & pin. The actual cost charged by Visa/MasterCard to the processors is only circa 0.03% for these payments however we are still seeing surcharges of up to 0.85% which can add £thousands per annum in unwarranted charges that can be removed.
Unlocked card machines – Flexibility to switch provider
Consider ordering replacement or new card machines from a third-party supplier who can reconfigure the machine to work with all the main UK card processors. Having long term contracts (3-4 years) on “locked” card machines, when the card processors agreements range typically from 1 month to 18 months, means you’re effectively being tied in for the length of the card machine contract. All card machines arranged by Acceptcards are unlocked giving the business full control and flexibility, with the same level of support.
Transparent pricing and savings
It’s important to consider the overall package when signing a contract to accept card payments. Being offered the best price (headline rate) for a merchant account can prove to be costly and with unwarranted surcharges, such as excessive non-qualified fees. Ensure the company you’re using will take the time to fully explain the pricing and particularly the savings if you’re switching. Ask to see a clear and transparent breakdown of all the charges and savings clearly evidenced if you’re switching provider. Accepting what looks like the cheapest rates may prove costly in the long run when you find yourself with a “tied” terminal contract and your processing costs start to increase.
SCA – New additional security checks for website payments
For clients accepting website payments it’s very important to understand the introduction of “Strong Customer Authentication”, which although was meant to be in place by September 14th has been extended by the FCA for 18 months. The change introduces two stage identification for on-line transactions although there are exemptions such as for those under £28. You may have noticed the changes personally with codes being sent to your mobile phone to authenticate purchases. It’s important that you request details from your card processor/payment gateway as to what steps they’re taking to have the new procedures in place and possibly consider switching to a provider who has already implemented the additional security.
How can Acceptcards help?Expertise and knowledge
Our team of banking and finance professionals have an unrivalled knowledge in all areas of card acceptance, covering all sectors, from card present to mail order and website payments. This combination of banking experience and payments knowledge means we can quickly understand your requirements and be truly objective in our review and the solutions we recommend.
Lifetime support and advice
As independent experts we are here to help as requirements change, no matter what the reason, and this is over and above the support and help desk service provided by the current processor and card machine suppliers. We’ll always be at the end of the phone or email for advice.
BECOME A MEMBER
Become a member of the Yorkshire Asian Business Association
Our mission is to help businesses achieve their ambitions.
We can support your business by offering market leading business services from our team of panellists and experts, YABA membership benefits include free advice from our team of panellists and experts
YABA Membership also includes YABA Enews please click here for overview of previous E-newsletters and Invitations to regular networking events please click here for short videos of previous events.
Cost of YABA Corporate Membership is only £500 click here to join
For any observations, comments or further information please do not hesitate to contact me.
Sharon Jandu
Director
Yorkshire Asian Business Association
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