All posts by Mark Baker

News

Energy firm continues diversification journey with new solar cleaning business

INNOVATION and diversification continue at a renewable energy firm which has added a sparkling new service to its award-winning portfolio.

Carbon Zero Renewables – part of the Carbon Zero Group based in Old Colwyn, St Asaph and Mochdre – is one of the few companies in the sector to offer solar panel cleaning in addition to installation and maintenance.

The development comes after the business welcomed more than 100 guests and exhibitors to its inaugural two-day Solar and Battery Expo at Eirias Park in Colwyn Bay.

While some window cleaners will give solar panels a squeegee and scrape as part of their offering, Carbon Zero’s Managing Director Gareth Jones says customers who have invested in PV technology should stick to specialists to ensure systems continue to operate efficiently.

“We are the only company in the region and one of the few renewable energy businesses in the UK to offer a dedicated specialist cleaning service,” said Gareth, a Net Zero Ambassador for the North Wales Mersey Dee Business Council’s Net Zero North Wales network, and Vice President of the Federation of Master Builders in Wales.

“We have the expertise to do it, are fully insured and have a dedicated vehicle to clean solar panels, unlike window cleaners who will do it in addition to other areas of a property.

“As the weather improves, we will see demand increase. Solar systems are sold as a ‘fit and forget’ and some people think the glass is self-cleaning, but this is far from the truth.

“Dirty solar panels can limit system operation by 30% and be catastrophic for older systems, with old technology. Just like rain doesn’t wash your windows clean, rain also doesn’t fully clean solar panels.

“This is a specialist’s job and maintenance should be completed by experts who know how to treat and handle them. Plus, businesses will need a maintenance contract to satisfy insurance requirements.”

He added: “For us the priority is providing an end-to-end experience for our customers, from the moment we discuss their renewable energy needs through to advice, installation, and maintenance, that relationship continues for many years to come.

“Our recent Expo was an example of that, with collaborators and partners joining us to celebrate the industry and be on hand to help those needing our guidance on a range of issues.

“This surge in interest, led to us taking on new staff in the past weeks having announced our highest ever accounts, so we thank everyone for their support and encourage anyone who has any solar panel or renewable energy system needs to give us a call or keep up to date with the latest news on the sector via our popular new YouTube podcast, Eco Talk Rewired.”

For support, guidance, and more information on renewable energy options, visit the website www.carbonzerorenewables.co.uk or call 08450 34 35 40.

To watch the podcast, visit YouTube: www.youtube.com/@EcoTalkPodcast.

News

£5k funding boost for Welsh firms on journey to net zero

AN INNOVATIVE grant scheme is supporting Flintshire businesses on their journey to net zero.

The Carbon Reduction Feasibility Fund is delivered by Antur Cymru Enterprise with the backing of Pathway to Carbon Zero Ltd and Litegreen Ltd in collaboration with Flintshire County Council.

The Flintshire Fund has received £297,294 from the UK Government through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund.

Companies in the region can apply for up to £5,000 to support the creation of carbon reduction plans.

The funding can be used by businesses to access specialist advice on how to become a more sustainable organisation, as well as offering guidance on equipment, buildings, energy use and systems and methods that will reduce their carbon footprint and help increase profitability.

Fund Manager Rowan Jones said: “We want to support businesses looking at carbon reduction, whether they are on the way to becoming net zero or starting out on this journey.

“The funding will be used to bring in expertise that will help, and to produce a Carbon Reduction Plan following a review of existing practices and facilities, whether that be recycling, working practices, behavioural change, investment, energy management, renewables, skills, or any number of factors that contribute towards becoming a more sustainable operation.

“Feasibility studies will be 80% funded through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund, with businesses expected to contribute 20% in terms match funding towards the total cost.”

He added: “The feedback we’ve had so far has been very positive and we want to see as many businesses as possible in Flintshire applying to capitalise on this opportunity.”

The project supports the Flintshire Climate Change Strategy 2022-2030 – by working to reduce energy consumption and emissions from firms in the county by promoting energy efficiency measures, renewable energy sources, and behaviour change.

Antur Cymru Enterprise also has an R&D (Research and Development) and Innovation Support Fund for organisations in Flintshire looking to develop new ideas, products, or processes, but unsure how to take them forward, and another scheme is set to be launched for business networks, knowledge transfer and workshops focused on carbon reduction and R&D.

“We are committed to supporting companies, particularly small businesses, as for many the move toward becoming more sustainable and trying to do the right thing from an environmental perspective can be costly, and time consuming,” said Rowan.

“Being able to put them on the right path while also incorporating R&D and advances in technology will help futureproof their organisations, which is the ultimate aim of these programmes.”

For more information and to apply for the funds, email flintshire@anturcymru.org.uk or call 01352 871298.

Alternatively, follow Antur Cymru Enterprise on social media at @anturcymruwales or visit the website: www.anturcymru.org.uk.

Construction, Construction News

Top Factors for the Long-Term Success of a Construction Project

A new commercial development should continue to serve its use for many decades to come. After all, a lot of work goes into constructing a new building. So, what does it take to ensure the long-term success of a construction project? Here are some of the top factors.

Location

The importance of location in construction cannot be stressed enough. It is one of the most essential decisions for a construction project, as it influences the development process, the ability to attract clients, and the long-term success of the structure.

For example, some properties experience a higher appreciation rate compared to others. Location is often one of the details that impact property value. Choosing a prime location may lead to greater growth in the property’s value in the coming years.

Structural Integrity

A successful project must stand the test of time. Ensuring that the structure is properly designed for the environment and its intended use can help increase its longevity.

You also need quality building materials to build a structure that lasts. Materials such as steel rebar, A142 mesh, and structural steel parts need to come from reputable suppliers and meet all necessary standards and specifications.

Strategic Planning

The success of a construction project often starts many months before breaking ground on the building site. Strategic planning is needed from the earliest stages of a construction development project.

Having a comprehensive plan helps keep the project aligned with its initial goals, which are likely based on a combination of factors such as:

  • Market demands
  • Economic trends
  • Stakeholders’ interests
  • Overall business vision

These details help shape the overall development strategy and decision-making process for each step of construction. The goals of the project may shape the choices of materials, designs, and other features of the development.

Financial Planning

Along with strategic planning, construction projects require financial planning. It’s the cornerstone of a successful project, as it determines its financial viability and potential profitability.

Financial planning involves budgeting, cost management, and careful resource allocation. These steps are needed to prevent overspending. Construction firms may also complete financial analyses to determine the potential return on investment, risks, and funding sources for the project.

Many stakeholders also require transparency throughout the lifecycle of each project. They may need to be updated on any changes to the proposed spending. With the right financial management safeguards in place, you can also protect against unforeseen setbacks and help keep almost any project on track.

Solid Project Management

Project management covers pre-construction planning and the construction stages. Effective project management is needed throughout each step in the process. It involves planning, resource allocation, risk assessments, and frequent oversight.

Good project management ensures that all tasks are organised and completed within the chosen timelines. It also ensures optimal distribution of resources, making it easier for each group or worker to complete their responsibilities safely and efficiently.

Regular progress evaluations are also helpful, as they can identify bottlenecks or deviations from the plan. Managers can then take corrective action before delays occur. Basically, project management helps hold all the project’s elements together for better communication and collaboration.

Regulatory Compliance

Regulatory compliance is another essential factor for the lasting success of large commercial construction projects. Keeping track of local, regional, and national regulations ensures that the project progresses smoothly with less risk of legal obstacles or delays.

Thoroughly understanding zoning laws, building codes, environmental regulations, and permit requirements is very important. Many companies engage with regulatory authorities early to address any concerns, foster positive relationships, and expedite approvals.

Compliance also mitigates the risk of costly fines, litigation, or project shutdowns. By integrating regulatory compliance into the project’s DNA, developers demonstrate a commitment to responsible and ethical practices, building trust with stakeholders and the community. This, in turn, cements the project’s reputation and paves the way for long-term success.

Environmental Considerations

Contractors and construction firms need to consider environmental factors, such as environmentally friendly practices. These issues are increasingly important to clients and stakeholders.

Examples include green building design, responsible resource management, and energy-efficient technologies. These steps minimise the project’s footprint and enhance its overall appeal.

Employing sustainable materials and construction techniques also contributes to the durability of structures, which may reduce future maintenance costs. Addressing environmental concerns that align with evolving consumer and investor preferences may also increase market demand and occupancy rates.

Beyond immediate benefits, these practices contribute to positive community relationships, regulatory compliance, and long-term operational cost savings. By integrating environmentally friendly practices, projects position themselves as forward-thinking, responsible entities, poised for enduring success in an increasingly eco-aware world.

Market Demand

Market demand is a major consideration for commercial development projects from the very beginning of the planning process. Construction companies must assess the current and potential future demand for real estate in the area.

Analysing market demand helps ensure that the building remains relevant and able to attract and retain occupants over the years. This helps create consistent revenue streams and maximises the project’s potential return on investment. Paying attention to market demand also increases adaptability for continuing to serve the fluctuating needs of the local area.

Clear Exit Strategy

An exit strategy is one of the final details to consider for the long-term success of a project. The exit strategy includes a clear definition of the company’s goals for the project, which typically includes financial goals. When these goals are met, the company must decide what to do with the property.

Depending on the exit strategy, a company may choose to sell or lease the property. Both options help add to the potential return on investment for the project. Deciding which option best meets the interests of the company or stakeholders depends on market conditions and potential risks.

A good exit strategy also protects against potential losses. It includes safeguards for pulling out of a project if it no longer seems financially viable.

The bottom line is that a successful construction project requires careful planning with a focus on both the present and future. Assessing current and future market demand, costs, and regulations can impact the long-term sustainability of the development.

As demand for new construction continues to grow in the UK, construction firms and contractors should continue to review their processes to maintain efficiency going forward.

 

News

Siblings overcome family tragedy to plan for expansion of booming signage business

SIBLINGS overcame family tragedy to launch an innovative design and manufacturing business.

After growing up in London and Brighton, Tashka and Krystn Yeomans – directors of Warehaus Signs in Mochdre – moved to North Wales with their mum Lynn as teenagers to begin a new life in Conwy.

Sadly, Lynn passed away while they were studying at university, leaving them to raise younger brother and sister Mielan and Caedia, who were just teenagers at the time.

After completing their studies in Fine Art and Marine Biology respectively, Tashka and Krystn began working with a friend in the design industry, creating props and unique items, before deciding to take the plunge and go it alone five years ago.

“When mum passed away it was up to us to care for Mielan and Caedia, it was just the four of us as we had no other family up here, so we had to stick together,” said Krystn.

“They were still in school, so we began doing design work on a freelance basis from home, then we eventually moved to a shipping container, and then to our own premises in Mochdre where we have invested a lot in cutting-edge equipment and machinery.”

Tashka added: “It has been a rollercoaster ride and we didn’t have any contracts in place at the beginning so there were a few lessons learned but we had the bug to make and create and knew we had the determination to make a success of it.”

With guidance and advice from BusinessWales, they diversified into creating and producing signage and delivering complementary services such as vehicle graphics, printing, retail displays and interior design for clients across multiple sectors including tourism, law, health, and the trades.

Tashka now leads the in-house design team, while Krystn has responsibility for manufacturing.

With long-term plans to open further Warehauses in Cardiff and north east Wales – to serve their growing customer base in those areas – and a team of five staff, Tashka believes the “end to end” experience and “individuality” are what sets them apart.

“We often get people who want a logo or sign that doesn’t reflect them or their personality, they’ve just seen something they like elsewhere and point to that,” said the mum-of-one, whose son Luca was born just months after they launched the firm.

“We go on a journey with them, from designing the logo to installing the signage, and take great pride in the end result because it’s authentic; everyone is different so it’s important to stand out, and we help businesses to do that.”

Krystn added: “We are continuing to develop both sides of Warehaus and have been so busy in past months, it’s been non-stop.

“This year we also decided to launch a branded, corporate gift service with a focus on bespoke wooden crafted items as it’s a composite of our business, sustainable, and will provide companies and private customers with a different option. A new online shop will enable us to promote that on our website soon.

“We are in a good place with a phenomenal team and have ridden through several storms, which have only made us stronger.

“Tashka and I thank those people who have been with us along the way, especially the loyal customers we have forged partnerships with through the pandemic. Family is everything and that family feeling is something we will never lose – it’s our identity.”

For more news and information from Warehaus Signs, visit the website www.warehaussigns.co.uk and follow them on social media @warehaus_signage.

News

Organic farm in ‘race against time’ to sell turkeys as UK bird flu crisis deepens

THE owner of an award-winning 15,000-acre organic farm issued a stark warning as the crisis in the poultry industry deepens.

As avian flu continues to impact available stocks of birds UK-wide, Lord Newborough – owner of Rhug Estate in North Wales – urged people to secure their Christmas orders well ahead to avoid disappointment.

The UK has lost more than 40% of its free-range turkey flock to bird flu and resulting culls, putting the industry under huge pressure at its most crucial time of the year.

It is the country’s worst-ever outbreak and has left butchers nationwide without supplies as the strain is particularly strong and virulent around turkey and geese.

Lord Newborough encouraged people to order soon and not miss out, and to consider other options such as beef, lamb, and pork when purchasing festive produce.

“Rhug Estate is taking a big gamble to ensure its customers have only the very best turkeys this Christmas,” he said.

“It is nail biting stuff and a race against time for many of us given how rapidly avian flu is spreading, but I believe a fresh turkey must be your first choice – better than one previously frozen – so we will continue as we are and encourage people to order all their meat requirements for the Christmas period in advance.”

Rhug Estate is recognised as one of the UK’s leading producers of high-quality meats and was appointed a Royal Warrant of Appointment by the now King Charles III for its care of the countryside and high animal welfare standards.

Its Organic Dee Valley Bronze Turkey was a recipient of the 1* Great Taste Award and voted a ‘best buy’ in The Independent newspaper, as well as being featured on the menu at Michelin-starred venues and leading restaurants globally, from London to Singapore.

The birds also made the news in past years for the stress-free life they live on the Estate, roaming free range for more than six months ahead of Christmas, feeding on organic farm oats and listening to classical music.

Lord Newborough added: “This was already a very busy time of year and of course one we all look forward to, so it’s such a shame this crisis has spiralled in past weeks.

“But we still have hundreds of turkeys and geese available and are here to support suppliers and customers with whatever they need.”

Turkeys are scheduled for delivery the week commencing December 19 and if pre-ordered for collection will include a free garnish pack.

If you would like your turkey as a Crown, call 01490 413000, email contact@rhug.co.uk or visit the website: www.rhug.co.uk/product/rhug-estate-organic-dee-valley-bronze-turkey

For more news and information including upcoming events, visit www.rhug.co.uk and follow them on social media @rhugestate.

News

Pet retailer powers ahead with green vision following £250,000 investment

AN ACCLAIMED pet retailer has invested more than £250,000 in powering ahead with its net-zero vision.

PetPlace has installed up to 450 solar panels at its stores in Abergele and Llangefni, with Ruthin, Mold and Gledrid, Oswestry, set to follow.

The business has also introduced electric charging points at Gledrid, Llangefni and its Kinmel Bay headquarters – with Mold and Abergele next to have them – and they now have electric rather than gas forklift vehicles, electric company cars and digital display screens, which they hope will help towards the reduction of printed material.

Owners Sion Pritchard and Paul Penketh enlisted Tremeirchion and St Asaph-based Hafod Renewable Energy to supply and fit the panels and worked closely with other local firms to support the North Wales economy and push ahead with its ‘green vision’ as a sustainable, responsible employer, one of the leading names in the pet retail arena.

“The investment in solar panels alone will result in a carbon saving of around 40 tons of C02 per year, so long-term we will see the benefits,” said Sion.

“Initially we have focused on Abergele and Llangefni, but we will look to roll out as we rebrand and refurbish our other stores.

“All of our vehicles are now electric – including forklift trucks in the warehouses – and we are more sustainable than ever before, with more energy efficiency improvements to follow.”

He added: “As well as Hafod Renewable Energy we have worked closely with Gwynedd Forklifts and Rawson EV Power, two North Wales companies that helped us with these projects and others over the years.

“We are focused on supporting local businesses in all sectors, not just our own, which also lowers our carbon footprint and further strengthens the economy in this region at a challenging time for all industries.”

David Jones founded Hafod Renewable Energy in 2010 with his late father Richard.

He was delighted to work with PetPlace and said: “It was a big project which equated to around a quarter of an acre of solar panels.

“The installation took a couple of weeks from start to finish and also included more than 1km of mounting rail and a battery system that will store energy to run their freezers overnight, producing more than 160,000kwh per year – enough to power 50 homes.”

David added: “It was fantastic to work in partnership with such a respected, growing business which has embraced sustainability and renewable energy.

“Due to the energy crisis – which has resulted in a surge in enquiries – we are also expanding, opened a new head office and taken on two more staff so it’s a very busy time for us.”

For more on Hafod Renewable Energy, visit www.hafodrenewables.co.uk.

For more information on PetPlace, including the PetPlace Plus+ loyalty app, follow @petplaceUK on Facebook and Instagram or email hello@farmandpetplace.co.uk.

News

Conservationists and golf greenkeepers putt sustainability in focus at college summit

GREENKEEPERS, conservation groups and employers in the horticulture industry went a fairway to becoming more sustainable at a summit to mark World Habitat Day.

More than 50 people attended an event at Coleg Cambria’s £1.2m education hub in Llysfasi, where speakers from across the region led on a variety of topics, from beekeeping to healthy, locally produced food and drink.

Among them were Ramblers Cymru, Snowdonia National Park, South Clwyd Beekeepers’ Association, Ecological Land Management, Nefyn Golf Club, the National Trust, Wales Golf, local authorities, and the Business Environment Network.

College students and staff were also on hand to find out more on how to utilise space at the institution’s sites in Wrexham, Northop, Deeside and Llysfasi.

Following the success of the day, Cambria’s Work-based Learning Manager Kate Muddiman said it could now become a biannual event.

“The turnout was fantastic so I would like to thank everyone who came along,” she added.

“The main theme was around ways to improve habitats with greenkeeping at the crux of that, looking at ways to create natural areas of wildlife around golf courses, by creating wildflower meadows and encouraging more natural wildlife and a more sustainable environment.

“As well as employers we also had students, apprentices and even local residents, with everyone
wanting to be more sustainable and looking to be inspired in where to start.

“The atmosphere was fantastic, the audience got truly involved, asking questions, offering further suggestions and giving people ideas to take away.

Among the speakers was Matt Alexander, General Manager of Ial Restaurant at Coleg Cambria Yale, who discussed the ‘farm to fork’ initiative and use of local ingredients and suppliers, as well as education and training opportunities.

Also presenting was Eleri Turner, who explained her apprenticeship with Cambria and the Carneddau Landscape Partnership, a five-year National Heritage Lottery-funded scheme conserving an area of northern Snowdonia.

Eleri has been working alongside National Trust Cymru Ranger Abbie Edwards, and the two of them – who both hail from Bethesda – featured in an episode of the flagship BBC programme Countryfile earlier this year.

Later, Jonathan Hulson from North Wales Wildlife Trust gave an inspirational talk on how they are working to restore resilience to Welsh woodlands, while Local Nature Partnerships Coordinator Julieanne Quinlan explained how we can all make small steps to help in sustainability by planting a wildflower meadow or installing swift boxes to help create habitats.

Kate said: “A wide range of subjects were discussed and given the response we’ve had we will look to run similar events once or twice a year on different themes, bringing businesses, the college and the community under one roof to work together and discuss the best ways we can all do more for the environment.”

Visit www.cambria.ac.uk for more news and information from Coleg Cambria.

News

Welsh sports stars, helpline and fitness app unite for World Mental Health Day

A SUPPORT helpline and pioneering Wales-based fitness app have joined forces to promote mental health awareness.

Fitap provides a platform for communities in Wales to get moving; supporting people in their health and wellbeing journey involves their mental health, and signposting services in their geographical area, as well as encouraging people to exercise, eat healthily and keep active will aid their mental and physical welfare.

Alongside CALL Mental Health Helpline for Wales – and to mark World Mental Health Day today (October 10) – they have united to shine a light on an issue which is more prevalent than ever given the post-pandemic economic and social climate.

Fitap founder Alex Cuthbert – who launched the app with Wales rugby union teammate Gareth Anscombe and Welsh CEO and entrepreneur Dean Jones – is proud to be in association with CALL.

He said: “From a sporting perspective, given the demands of the game and the abuse and negativity you can experience on social media and online, it is so important to look after your mental health.

“Having experienced that myself and seen friends and other players impacted, it was a big part of the reason we wanted to do all we could to get behind CALL and promote the value of exercise, social interaction, and nutrition, especially given the amount of time people spent in self-isolation and lockdown.

“Knowing someone is there for you is important, and for those who do not have friends or family to talk to, being able to pick up the phone and speak to the amazing team at CALL is a lifeline.”

Dean added: “We are delighted to be in partnership with CALL and through Fitap can help display and demonstrate the wide range of services available for those who need them most, whether it’s a support group, a phone number or website, there are people who can help at the touch of a button.

“It’s crucial that we get people talking and remove any stigmas around mental health, because it affects so many people, especially at the current time. By putting all this information in one central, accessible place Fitap can help people with that.”

Statistics from MentalHealth-UK.org website revealed people who take part in regular physical activity have up to a 30% lower risk of depression, so the pairing of the app and charity are a perfect match.

CALL Manager Luke Ogden reinforced Dean’s words and thanked Fitap – which unveiled double Olympic gold medallist Jade Jones as a brand ambassador in past weeks – for making mental health services a priority.

“We are pleased to be working with Fitap to promote good mental and physical health to the people of Wales,” he said.

“Mental and physical wellbeing are both closely related and can have an effect on each other, and we feel it is essential that everyone has the tools to learn how they can look after themselves.”

Luke added: “CALL Helpline is an all-Wales mental health helpline, free to use for anyone living in Wales.

“We give emotional support and provide a listening ear for anyone wanting to discuss their mental health concerns and can also signpost users to services across the country.

“Like Fitap, we are always available and are able to support the people of Wales both in Welsh and English – 24/7.”

For more information on Fitap, follow @fitapofficial on social media. 

Text 81066 or call freephone 0800 132 737 for more on CALL Mental Health Helpline for Wales. Alternatively, visit www.callhelpline.org.uk.

Visit the World Health Organisation website for news and information on World Mental Health Day: www.who.int/campaigns/world-mental-health-day

News

Performing arts group stages pandemic comeback with music grant support

A PERFORMING arts group staged a remarkable comeback with the support of a community funding organisation.

Conwy Valley and North West Wales Coast Community Rail Partnership and Transport for Wales (TfW) stepped in to help Maes-G ShowZone in Maesgeirchen, Bangor, when they needed a grant to help pay for new equipment during the pandemic.

Led by Steffie and Eirian Williams Roberts and Naomi Crane, the group was launched in September 2020 and immediately attracted more than 25 children from the local area.

Fast forward two years and they now have up to 50 young people attending their twice-weekly sessions at Eglwys y Groes church hall, testament to the hard work and determination of Eirian and the team.

“Maes-G Showzone originally started around 15 years ago on the housing estate, but sadly closed down when the funding dried up,” she said.

“My wife Steffie had attended the original ShowZone when she was younger and during the first few months of Covid-19 we sat at the kitchen table and discussed the possibility of reopening it, given the impact self-isolation and lockdown was having on children here.

“In that first year they were only with us for three months, we managed to perform a Christmas carol concert online but our big plans for a variety show at Pontio in Bangor were shelved, until we finally managed to do it last October to a reduced audience over two nights.”

Steffie added: “As restrictions started to ease, we began to see more parents getting on board and more children wanting to join; to the point we have an ever-growing waiting list.

“With the support of organisations like Conwy Valley and North West Wales Coast Community Rail Partnership we were able to purchase much-needed equipment.

“As for now, our members are hard at work rehearsing for their Christmas panto and in January will start rehearsals for our next Big Variety Show in July next year – we can’t thank our supporters enough.”

ShowZone strives to give access to the performing arts to all children by keeping their activities affordable and reducing costs for families.

“The funding and generosity of our community has made all the difference, when we see how much the children enjoy it, how much they’ve grown in confidence, it is the only payment we need as volunteers,” said Eirian.

“Our members are incredibly hardworking and have built a good reputation with all who have worked with them in the performance industry. They are a credit to not only the Maesgeirchen community but the wider community too.

“We aim to ensure that no child is left behind, and with more and more people wanting to join, the future of Maes-G Showzone looks bright.  However, we can’t keep the doors open without grant funding and the continued support of the community.”

Community Rail Officer Karen Williams congratulated the volunteers on their success and hopes they will have the opportunity to join forces again in the future.

She added: “This is a brilliant example of an organisation giving back to its community, uniting people of all ages and making a real difference.

“We are so glad to have been able to play a part in their development and wish them well with their upcoming shows.”

Partnership funding is available to community organisations located within a five-mile radius of a Transport for Wales (TfW) station along the Conwy Valley and North West Wales coastal lines (Llandudno to Blaenau Ffestiniog, and Llandudno Junction to Holyhead).

Eligible applicants can submit a bid until mid-October, with up to £1000 available. There is also Greener Initiative Funding programme where groups within a one-mile radius of a TfW station in the above areas can apply for up to £500.

For more information, visit www.mantellgwynedd.com or call 01286 672626. Alternatively, follow them on social media at @mantellgwynedd.

Maes-G Showzone is on the lookout for sponsors. For more information and latest news and information from the group, visit www.maesgshowzone.com or the Facebook page: www.facebook.com/MaesGShowzonepage.

News

Welsh food and drink firms encouraged to capitalise on major procurement opportunities

FOOD and drink companies in Wales can access free one-to-one support to capitalise on major procurement opportunities in the public sector.

As part of its innovative Larder Cymru project, Menter Môn is targeting up to 50 producers and processors from across the country and rolling out mentoring and guidance sessions for successful applicants.

Funded by Welsh Government and the European Agricultural Fund for Rural Development (EAFRD), the scheme is focused on coordinating and strengthening relations within local supply chains to position regionally produced food and drink as a compelling proposal for large contracts nationwide.

Larder Cymru Project Manager Dafydd Jones said: “To complement this, interested parties can get in touch with us for one-to-one sessions where we can offer guidance and support on a range of issues, from procurement to marketing, supply chains and monitoring social value.

“These sessions will be crucial as we move forward as we will be able to explore how public sector opportunities benefit their organisation, gauge how much experience and expertise they have and establish key next steps, including an action plan, training and milestones.”

He added: “We are working with public sector purchasers, procurement officers and catering managers in a range of different organisations to understand their supply chain requirements and how we can bridge the gap for independent suppliers.

“We are also in discussions with wholesalers and looking at how small businesses can join forces to be included in tenders for bigger opportunities that would previously have been unavailable to them.

“The project’s overall aim is to strengthen support within the local supply chain to position locally produced food and drink so that it is a compelling proposal for large supply contracts.

“The project also looks at lowering the sector’s carbon footprint, increasing profitability for independent businesses in Wales and working towards a more supportive and sustainable arena for producers and the public sector.”

Menter Môn will continue to deliver community-driven, innovative projects that have a direct impact on communities in Wales, according to Dafydd.

“This is an example of an initiative that will have a huge effect on small businesses and independent suppliers in Wales while at the same time making a big impact nationally,” he said.

“By developing shorter supply chains, it will provide the opportunity for food producers and suppliers to go for bigger contracts, the produce will travel a shorter distance – providing environmental and financial benefits, notably given fuel price hikes – and this will in turn have a knock-on effect for employment and local industry.

“We add value by working with businesses, trainers and accreditors and referring the suppliers to the right people at the right time, ensuring communication channels are seamless and progress is made.

“If their products and services complement each other we can give them the best platform to secure contracts that will make a positive difference to local economies, the environment and communities across Wales for years to come.”

Larder Cymru attended the LACA – The School Food People Public Sector Catering expo held during the summer, where they were joined by leading food companies Henllan Bakery, Llaeth y Llan, Harlech Foodservice and Plas Farm, showcasing their produce to food buyers within the public sector ahead of further events later this year.

For more information, visit www.lardercymru.wales or email dafydd.jones@mentermon.com . Alternatively, follow @mentermon on social media.