Category Archives: Business

Business, Marketing, PR and SEO, News, North of England

Boost Your Visibility: Effective Strategies For Making Your Business Stand Out In Manchester

In today’s competitive business landscape, it’s essential to make sure your Manchester business stands out from the crowd. After all, visibility is key when it comes to success. But how exactly do you make your business visible? From engaging in targeted marketing campaigns to leveraging social media platforms, there are a number of effective strategies that can help you boost your visibility and make your business stand out. Here, we’ll explore some of the most successful methods you can use to increase your business’s visibility, and ensure you make a lasting impression on potential customers.

 

Targeted Marketing Campaigns

Marketing campaigns are an effective way to increase your business’s visibility and reach. By targeting a specific audience with relevant content, you can ensure that your message is seen by the right people. To get the most out of your campaigns, it’s important to identify the demographic you’re trying to reach and tailor your content accordingly. When planning a marketing campaign, it’s essential to consider the platform you’ll use to reach your target audience. For example, if you’re targeting a younger demographic, it’s likely you’ll want to focus on social media platforms.

Once you’ve identified the platform, it’s time to create the content. Your content should be engaging and relevant to your target audience. You should also ensure that your message is consistent across all platforms and that it’s easy for your audience to take action.

 

Leverage Social Media Platforms

Social media is a powerful tool for increasing your business’ visibility and engaging with your target audience. The key to leveraging social media platforms is to create content that resonates with your audience and encourages them to take action. It’s important to keep your content fresh and relevant. You should post regularly and respond to any queries or comments in a timely manner.

However, it’s important to note that you shouldn’t post too often as this can be overwhelming and feel like spam to your audience. You should also ensure that your content reflects your brand identity and that you’re consistent across all platforms.

 

Using A Search Engine Optimisation (SEO) Agency

Search engine optimisation (SEO) is an effective way to increase your visibility and boost your rankings on search engines. By optimising your website and content for search engines, you can ensure that potential customers can easily find your business.

When looking to hire an SEO agency in Manchester, it’s important to ensure that they have experience in the field and are familiar with the latest trends and techniques. It’s also important to ensure that they have a clear understanding of your business’s goals and objectives.

 

Creating A User-Friendly Website

Having a user-friendly website is essential for any business. Your website should be easy to navigate and contain all the necessary information that potential customers may need. It should also reflect your brand identity and be aesthetically pleasing. When creating a website, it’s important to ensure that it’s optimised for mobile devices. This will ensure that potential customers can access your website regardless of the device they’re using.

Business, Events

Are Hotels Perfect For Business Accommodation Events?

If you’re planning an upcoming business event, you may be looking for the perfect place to hold it. One of the best options is a hotel! Hotels provide a great atmosphere and plenty of amenities tailored to your business needs. This blog post will explore why hotels are the perfect choice for business accommodation events, as well as how to make the most of your stay.

 

What are Business Accommodation Events?

Business accommodation events refer to events that involve overnight stays for the participants. These can include conferences, seminars, and corporate retreats – anything that involves lodging for an extended period of time! Not only do hotels provide the perfect atmosphere for these types of events, but they also have all the necessary amenities that make hosting a successful event effortless.

 

Why Hotels are Perfect For Business Accommodation Events:

Let’s take a look at the various advantages of using hotels for business accommodation events:

 

  • Comfort. Hotels provide a comfortable and luxurious atmosphere for your event, with spacious rooms and plenty of amenities. This can help set the perfect tone for your business gathering, allowing everyone to relax and focus on their work. Not only will this make participants more comfortable, but it can also help them work more efficiently and create better outcomes for the event.

 

  • Convenience. Hotels are conveniently located near airports, making it easy for attendees to get there quickly and easily. They also provide a variety of on-site dining options, meeting rooms, and other amenities that can make your event a success.

 

  • Flexibility. Hotels offer plenty of room options to suit any budget or group size, making them the perfect choice for all types of business events. They also provide amenities like catering and audio-visual equipment that can be tailored to fit your needs.

 

  • Professionalism. Hotels are known for their professionalism, so you can be sure that your event will be treated with the utmost care and respect. This will give attendees a feeling of importance, which can help enhance the overall experience.

 

  • Service. Hotels are renowned for their excellent customer service, which can help make your event a success. The staff will be more than happy to accommodate any specific needs you may have and ensure that everything runs smoothly throughout your stay.

 

  • Cost-effectiveness. Hotels can be cost-effective when it comes to business accommodation events. You’ll save money on having to rent out a meeting space, as well as on the other amenities that hotels provide.

 

How to Makes The Most Out of Your Stay:

Now that we’ve discussed why hotels are the perfect choice for business accommodation events, let’s look at some tips on how to make the most out of your stay.

 

  • Make sure you research hotels in advance and find one that suits your budget and needs. Look out for special offers or discounts as well, which can help you save money.

 

  • Reserve rooms in advance to avoid any last-minute problems or delays. This will also give you the chance to find out more about the hotel’s amenities and services so that you can be sure they are what you need.

 

  • Ask for advice from the staff at the hotel. They will be more than happy to help you plan your event and make sure everything runs smoothly. They’re an excellent way to get an insider’s perspective on the hotel, as well as advice on the best places to eat or visit nearby.

 

  • Take advantage of all the amenities that the hotel offers. This can include catering, audio-visual equipment, meeting rooms, and other services that can help enhance your event. Not only will these allow you to save time and money, but they can also help ensure your event is a success.

 

  • Try to get the most out of your stay. Make sure you take full advantage of the hotel’s facilities, such as its restaurants, bars, and recreational activities. This will be a great chance to have some fun and get the most out of your stay.

 

What Other Types of Business Accommodation Are There?

Hotels aren’t the only option for business accommodation events. You may also want to consider renting out a villa or apartment, booking serviced apartments, or even staying in a hostel. All of these options have their own advantages and disadvantages that you should weigh up before making your decision. However, hotels are perfect for business accommodation events as they offer convenience, flexibility, professionalism and excellent service – all at an affordable price.

How Much Do Hotels Cost For Business Accommodation Events?

Hotel costs will vary depending on the size of your event and the amenities you require. On average, it can cost anywhere from $50-$200 per night for a single room. It is important to do your research and shop around to get the best deal possible.  They don’t have to cost the earth, and you can often get great discounts on booking in advance.

 

How Do I Find The Best Hotels For Business Accommodation Events?

There are many websites available that can help you find the best hotels for business accommodation events. They will allow you to compare prices, amenities, and locations of different hotels to make sure you get the best deal. We’d recommend checking out a range of business accommodation providers for the best deal. For example, Rooost is a business accommodation provider with a directory of hotels and serviced apartments, as well as an online booking service. Their website is a great resource for finding the right hotel or serviced apartment for your event.

 

In conclusion, hotels are the perfect choice for business accommodation events. They offer flexibility, professionalism, and excellent service that can make your event a success. Plus, they are cost-effective and you can often get great discounts when booking in advance. Do your research to find the best hotel for your needs, and don’t forget to take full advantage of all the amenities they offer. With these tips, you can be sure that your business accommodation event will be an unforgettable experience.

 

 

 

 

Business, Climate, News, Sustainability

Junk Kouture and Microsoft Announce New Partnership Aimed at Empowering and Celebrating the Circular Engineers of Tomorrow

Microsoft has announced a partnership with the world’s largest youth sustainable fashion competition, Junk Kouture to support their shared mission to raise awareness and educate the next generation about circular systems in fashion, as well as celebrating solutions where technology and creativity work together to help drive change in the industry.

Junk Kouture is a creative program open to 13-18-year-olds that challenges young people to design, upcycle and create high end Kouture from 100% recycled materials before showcasing their sustainable designs at live events across the globe. Dubbed ‘The Eurovision for fashion and creative young people’, the competition focuses on creating the circular engineers of tomorrow, by taking junk and applying creativity and innovation to make garments suited for a fashion runway.

Junk Kouture’s programme includes an in-school educational platform that reaches over 850,000 students in 1,150 schools and is currently active in six countries, including the United States, United Kingdom, Ireland, France, Italy, and the United Arab Emirates. Over the next ten years, Junk Kouture’s ambition is to enrich and empower the lives of a billion young people across the world through creativity and sustainability.

The new partnership will see Microsoft and Junk Kouture collaborate to develop Masterclasses that can be viewed on Microsoft’s Flip platform, a video discussion app to share videos and build communities by learning together. Microsoft Flip will be the primary platform to connect masterclass experts from the world of fashion and sustainability with the global creative community of educators and students.

“Microsoft and Junk Kouture share a vision to empower the next generation and encourage future circular engineers through connected education. Our technology allies with Junk Kouture’s mission and enables accessible information for students across the globe, no matter where they are. As a brand, Microsoft has a strong foundation in supporting, and empowering people and organisations in the fashion industry – to inspire creativity and innovation and build a more inclusive and sustainable future.” Maruschka Loubser, Director of Global Brand Partnerships Microsoft

Pictured – ‘Jump for Joy’ by Orla Ni Eadhra of Inverness Royal Academy, Scotland at the World Final of Junk Kouture in Abu Dhabi on the 11th of January 2023.  Jump for Joy is created from an old trampoline, bicycle spokes and sweet wrappers and won the London City Designer of the Year Award.

Microsoft’s campaign will showcase designs from the 2022 programme and connect these two important topics and themes of the UN Sustainability Development Goals (SDG) that are a priority for Junk Kouture. Content including student Masterclasses will be released monthly from February to June and will cover:

  • Quality Education with Back to the Future in Dublin.
    • Back to the Future is a futuristic coat of armour that represents reconnecting with our planet to save the next generation.
  • Responsible Consumption & Production with Tree of Life in Milan.
    • Raising awareness of pollution and environmental damage, the Tree of Life aims to increase awareness for respect and love for our planet.
  • Gender Equality with Soaring High in London.
    • Soaring High is a design based on women flying high over society, representing stereotypes of gender and breaking the norm.
  • Climate Action with Gaia in Abu Dhabi.
    • Gaia is a goddess inspired design based on natural elements, symbolising the UAE’s trees, palms and desert climate.
  • Sustainable Cities & Communities with Nightingale in New York.
    • Nightingale was created to honour all nurses and medical professions who sacrificed their lives over the pandemic. The design represents the hope and virtue that spirits these industries.
  • Reduced Inequalities with Divide and Conquer in Paris.
    • Based on the avant-garde take on Pierrot and Harlequin from the Commedia dell’arte, the division of social classes is characterised through design and materials.

 

In addition to the Masterclasses, Microsoft will support a new awards category within the competition – the Microsoft STEAM Award – will be created and given out at the 2023 World Final of Junk Kouture later this year. The award will be presented to the design and designers that best integrate elements of STEAM into their work.

“Young people can often feel helpless in the face of the climate crisis and that’s why at Junk Kouture, we give them a global platform and the tools to use their voice and the creative outlet to showcase their solutions. Our ambition is to reach 1 billion young people over the next 10 years, generating lasting behavioural change through creativity and education content around STEAM and sustainability that impacts our planets future along the way. We create the next generation of changemakers, and that’s why it is vital for us to collaborate with the right partners like Microsoft, that not only align with our vision and values but have the global experience to help us achieve this ambition. We are excited to have the team at Microsoft join us on this exciting journey.” – Troy Armour, CEO & Founder Junk Kouture

This announcement continues Microsoft’s support for organisations and individuals that are driving change within the fashion industry. Through existing partnerships, Microsoft has already established itself as a brand that is empowering fashion leaders to reimagine creative processes to drive even more creativity, productivity and sustainability within the industry and help to transform the business of fashion, through technology that pushes boundaries.

As a business, Microsoft is helping to create a more sustainable world, with the brand making commitments in four key areas: carbon, water, ecosystems and waste, with the goal of becoming net positive by 2030.

 

Header image caption:

Pictured – ‘Soaring High’ by Dominica Kodeesawaran (model), Grace Bowden and Annabelle Blackwell of Denmark Road High School, Gloucester at the World Final of Junk Kouture in Abu Dhabi on the 11th January 2023. Soaring High is created from sweet wrappers, old clothes, napkins and teabag paper and won the Best Performance Award.

 

Awards, Business, News

Britain’s most inspiring women in business crowned at national awards

  • 21 business women, teams and organisations have been honoured for being trailblazers in 2022
  • The celebrations come as statistics show more women are taking on leading positions in business every year
  • The overall Great British Businesswoman of the Year was awarded to Beth Knight, Amazon in the Community Leader, Europe

The business women leading the way in their industries have been named in the second annual Great British Businesswoman Awards.

The programme launched in 2021 to recognise the growing number of trailblazing women in business leadership and entrepreneurship, champion their peers and advocates, and inspire the next generation of businesswomen.

In 2021, over 140,000 female-founded companies were established, a figure that is growing by a third every year, and the number of women in leadership positions in FTSE 100 companies increased to 32.5%, from 30.6% in 2020. It’s thought that this increase in representation of women in business could unlock a huge amount of economic potential, especially as the trajectory continues.

The final took place at De Vere Grand Connaught Rooms in London as the awards was held in person for the first time, after coronavirus meant the first ever ceremony was held online.

The overall Great British Businesswoman of the Year was awarded to Beth Knight, Amazon in the Community Leader for Europe, whose work surrounds building a better working world for women.

From helping women and girls to advance their careers in technology with programs like Amazon Future Engineer, to overseeing large-scale philanthropy initiatives for refugees fleeing the current crisis in the Ukraine, Beth has been highly commended for the work she has undertaken so far in her career.

The programme was founded by the team behind the Great British Entrepreneur Awards in 2021, who had been blown away by the increasing volume and quality of applications to the prestigious awards series by women in previous years.

The winners were selected by a panel of expert judges from companies including Burberry, easyJet, WarnerMedia, Cabinet Office, Greggs and Heathrow Airport, who all have their own vast experience working within diversity and inclusion.

The Great British Businesswoman Awards were founded by Francesca James, who said that the showcased winners would play an important role in inspiring others: “It has been a great honour to highlight the commendable stories of the winners, not only because they thoroughly deserve to be applauded for their tenacity and leadership, but because the value of positive female role models and male allies in business cannot be underestimated.

“Statistics show that the participation of women in business is on the rise, but we want to play a part in ensuring this continues by shining a light on the stories that will instil confidence in the next generation and make certain that no stories of success go unnoticed.

“Congratulations to our fantastic winners, not only for your awards, but for the important work you are doing to lead and innovate your industries.”

Full list of winners:

Banking & Finance Businesswoman of the Year: Natasha Frangos, Partner, Head of Corporate, Haysmacintyre LLP

Construction Businesswoman of the Year: Gauri Talathi-Lamb, Co-Founder, Iolas Capital

Consumer Goods Businesswoman of the Year: Martha Keith, Founder & CEO, Martha Brook

Creative Industries Businesswoman of the Year: Lucy McCarraher, Founder, Rethink Press

Engineering & Manufacturing Businesswoman of the Year: Samidha Anand, Engineering Manager, Caterpillar

Entrepreneurial Businesswoman of the Year: Lizzie Carter, Founder, Only Curls Ltd

Food & Drink Businesswoman of the Year: Joyce De Hass & Raissa De Hass, Co-Founders, Double Dutch Drinks

Social Enterprise Businesswoman of the Year: Emily Aklan, CEO, Serenity Welfare

Technology Businesswoman of the Year: Collette Allen, Chief Operating Officer, SmartSearch

Telecoms Businesswoman of the Year: Tejal Maniar, CEO, BT OnePhone Ltd

Transport & Logistics Businesswoman of the Year: Nancy Hobhouse, Head of ESG ,Evri

Utilities Businesswoman of the Year: Lisa Waterhouse, Diversity & Inclusion Manager, National Grid

Young Businesswoman of the Year: Laura Cooper-Jackson, Director, Industrial Signs Group

Rising Star Award: Krystle McGilvery, Founder, Mind Over Money

Gamechanger in Sport Award: Charlene Gravesande, Assistant Producer, Sky UK Limited

Team of the Year Award: PUMA UK&I

Role Model of the Year Award: Lucile Kamar, Head of Diversity and Inclusion, ITN

Diversity Award: OLIVER

Male Advocate of the Year Award: Conor Whelan, Chief Information Officer, Experian PLC

Female Ambassador of the Year: Beth Knight, Amazon in the Community Leader for Europe, Amazon

Great British Businesswoman of the Year: Beth Knight, Amazon in the Community Leader for Europe, Amazon

Business, News

Leaders or Laggards: The Corporate Behaviours That Are Boosting – Or Hampering Sustainability Efforts

Global research exposes gap between businesses spearheading positive change and those stalling for time in new study of corporate behaviours to tackle climate crisis

  • 11% (one in nine) leadership teams only look at sustainability once a year
  • Companies spend an average of 4% of revenue on sustainability
  • Half of all businesses state that having too much data to make sense of, or not having the right data, is the biggest single barrier to sustainability
  • ‘Laggard’ companies are more likely to have responsibility for sustainable practices fall to a CSR role, whereas ‘leaders’ make it the CEO’s responsibility

A new study from experience innovation consultancy Designit reveals that ‘laggard’ leadership teams in businesses across the globe are failing to address sustainability, despite every impetus to act.

In the worst cases, 11% of international businesses consider sustainability at board level only once each year. This compares to those companies deemed ‘leaders’ in sustainability that constantly review their strategies, with 78% always including it on their quarterly boardroom agendas.

The Designit findings, compiled from 1,000 sustainability professionals with an influence on or responsibility/accountability for sustainability, ESG or corporate responsibility within large organisations, reveals that the most advanced businesses are much better at partnering and collaborating for greater value.

These businesses experience more benefits for their sustainability efforts, and reference profitability as a driver for sustainability almost twice as much as the least advanced businesses (70% and 38%, respectively).

Furthermore, CEOs at the most advanced businesses – those classified as ‘leaders’ – are 50% more likely to have ultimate responsibility for sustainability, while ‘laggards’ are twice as likely to allocate ultimate sustainability responsibility to someone in a CSR role.

By covering all levels of maturity in corporate sustainability practices, the Leaders and Laggards analysis assesses the behavioural and attitudinal distinctions between the most advanced businesses (‘leaders’ representing 12% of the total respondent size), and those falling behind (15% are ‘laggards’).

“Our findings show that all businesses – no matter where they stand on the road to improved environmental practices – face multiple internal and external challenges that design-led innovation is specially prepared to tackle,” says Miguel Sabel Pereira, Designit’s European Head of Sustainability.

Hurdles to sustainable progress

Half (49%) of all businesses state that having too much data to make sense of, or not having the right data, is the biggest single barrier to sustainability. However, the figure is more pronounced for ‘leader’ businesses than ‘laggards’ (58% vs 43%).

Meanwhile, more than half (54%) of all businesses have difficulty in integrating sustainability innovation into products – and on average they spend only 4% of their revenue on sustainability.

And although the majority of companies (63%) state that rising costs are the biggest external barrier to sustainability, unclear government guidelines are also rated as one of the most challenging roadblocks (47%), alongside geopolitical instability (43%), and technological constraints (42%).

The study’s far-reaching findings also reveal:

All companies leading in sustainability consider themselves to be purpose-led, and they are more likely to be headquartered in Europe

Purpose-driven leaders’ desire to do good extends far beyond their own organisation – they proactively develop industry standardised practices and approaches to tackling carbon emissions

Purpose-driven leaders are also committed to sustainability: 8 in 10 will even go as far as collaborating with other companies in their industry to solve the world’s most pressing sustainability problems

Designit hopes that highlighting the behaviours of leaders against laggards can lessen the gap between the two and allow less advanced businesses to design effective sustainable transitions that move beyond the superficial. This entails applying strategic design across the entirety of a business, from organisational structure to product development.

Miguel Sabel Pereira, Designit’s European Head of Sustainability, adds: “Our research shows how hard it can be for many businesses to turn ambition into progress on sustainability. Yet crucially, it also shows what the most advanced businesses are doing. It showcases what effective corporate behaviours look like in a way that those trailing behind can adopt.

“What really sets the most advanced businesses apart is an innovative approach to sustainability. They are intent on consistently and holistically applying strategic design innovation until it forms part of the organisation’s DNA and extends into its wider value chain.

“This has allowed them to reimagine their value to society and the environment, places sustainability at the core of their proposition, and empowers people’s potential in driving sustainable value. It’s a template others can and should adopt if we’re to see wholesale change across the world of business.”

About the study

The study is based on 1,000 online interviews with sustainability professionals with an influence on or responsibility or accountability for sustainability, ESG or corporate responsibility within their organisation. The research also covers a mix of specialist and non-specialist roles from director to C-Suite level, and only included organisations with $75 million+ global annual revenue.

Bridgend, Business, News

New Bridgend Site for Fast-Growing Welsh Business Storage Giant

Welsh firm Storage Giant has cut the ribbon on a new high-security self-storage facility in Bridgend, which gives the company a tally of six sites in Wales.

The fast-growing company, which is headquartered in Newport, is one of the most impressive business success stories in the country, having started out as a single-facility concern at the onset of recession, in 2007, to becoming the largest independent self-storage firm in the UK.

The Bridgend facility offers 47,625 sqft of personal, domestic and business units and 600-plus storage rooms, ranging from 10sq ft to 250sq ft, at South Road, Bridgend Industrial Estate, 25 mins from Barry.

Storage Giant MD, Simon Williams, said: “We are very pleased to bring a new Storage Giant facility to the people and businesses of Bridgend, Pontypridd, Port Talbot, Barry, Neath, Caerphilly and the surrounding areas.  This is the first ever high-tech 5th generation self-storage facility in the town. The Storage Giant footprint extends to The Midlands and the M4 corridor but we are a home-grown success story and it is great to add to our Wales-based portfolio of Newport, Cardiff, Swansea, Cwmbran and Llanelli. This expansion for us is, of course, also a sign that the local economy is resilient in the face of recent hardships, and that firms in Wales are continuing to invest and to grow.”

He adds: “Storage Giant has always been a go-to choice for start-ups and entrepreneurs to establish their smes in our office and storage spaces, or for larger firms to set up satellite offices, and we know this is something local entrepreneurs in Bridgend will tap into. The Storage Giant story continues to be one of steady, managed growth and we continue to expand our portfolio in 2023, with a new Storage Giant facility in development, in Nottingham, set to open this year with several more in the pipeline, including Stoke-on-Trent, Willenhall, Kidderminster and Witney.”

For more details about Storage Giant go to: https://www.storagegiant.co.uk/

Business, News, Technology

Netcompany – Interim report for the 12 months ended 31 December 2022 and Annual Report 2022

Netcompany grew 32% and realised EBITDA margin of 23% as well as continued strong free cash flow in Q4 2022

In Q4 2022, Netcompany grew revenue to DKK 1,519.3m – equal to 31.9% growth compared to Q4 2021 (constant 32.5%) of which 13 percentage points was non-organic and related to Netcompany-Intrasoft. Organic revenue growth was 18.9% (constant 19.5%).

Adjusted EBITDA was DKK 348.9m in Q4 2022 compared to DKK 238.2m in Q4 2021. Adjusted EBITDA margin was 23% in Q4 2022 (constant 23%) compared to 20.7% in Q4 2021.

Free cash flow continued to be strong and increased by 140% and was DKK 323.4m in Q4 2022 compared to DKK 134.7m in Q4 2021. Debt leverage was reduced from 2.7x in Q4 2021 to 1.6x in Q4 2022.

Average number of full-time employees grew by 1,936 from 5,417 in Q4 2021 to 7,353 in Q4 2022 and churn rates continued to decline during Q4 2022 – measured on both 3 and 12 month rolling basis.

For the full year, Netcompany realised total revenue in line with guidance of DKK 5,544.6m – equal to 52.7% growth compared to 2021 (constant 52.5%) of which 37.8 percentage points was non-organic and related to Netcompany-Intrasoft. Organic revenue growth was 14.9% (constant 14.7%)

For 2022, Adjusted EBITDA was DKK 1,106.2m compared to DKK 880.9m for 2021. Adjusted EBITDA margin was 20% for 2022 (constant 20%) – in line with guidance too – compared to 24.3% in 2021.

Free cash flow for the full year was DKK 602.7m, which was an improvement of 47.7% compared to 2021 where free cash flow was DKK 408m.

Revenue visibility improved by 9.3% from DKK 3,824.8m for 2022 to DKK 4,179.9m for 2023.

For 2023, Netcompany expects revenue growth in constant currencies of between 8% and 12% – all organic.

Adjusted EBITDA margin measured in constant currencies is expected to be between 15% and 18%.

“We ended the year strong and in line with our expectations driven by continued strong performance throughout the Group, particularly in Netcompany-Intrasoft and the UK.

Despite unprecedented high uncertainty observed in 2022, we realised close to 53% revenue growth and a margin above 20% – as outlined in the beginning of 2022, which makes me really proud.

Results like these are not easily achieved, and they are a true testimony to the outstanding talent that our more than 7,500 employees possess. Together with our customers they define the digitalisation agenda in Europe and in close collaboration they realise benefits associated hereto.

From a macroeconomic perspective, 2023 looks to be even more challenging than the last two years, which is reflected in our expectations for the financial performance. Despite the gloomy outlook we still expect to grow between 8% and 12%.

We also will continue to make investments into future proofing our offerings and solutions and hence expect our margins to be between 15% and 18% next year.

It is my firm belief that the future will be driven by digitalisation, and I am confident that courage to invest into long term objectives, will bring Netcompany closer to realise our aspiration of being a European IT market leader.”

André Rogaczewski
Netcompany CEO and Co-founder

Performance highlights Q4

  • Revenue increased by 31.9% to DKK 1,519.3m in reported currencies and by 32.5% in constant currencies.
  • Organic revenue grew by 18.9% (19.5% constant).
  • Gross profit margin was 34.2% against 33.5% in Q4 2021.
  • Adjusted EBITDA increased 46.4% and yielded a margin of 23%.
  • Free cash flow was DKK 323.4m.
  • Free cash flow normalised for tax payments improved by 124.6% to DKK 361.4m.
  • Fair value adjustment of the investment in the Netherlands reflected an increase of the final purchase price and impacted net profit negatively by DKK 7.9m.
  • Cash conversion rate normalised for tax payment was 149.5% compared to 93.2%.
  • Debt leverage to 12 months rolling adjusted EBITA was 1.6x.

The full financial results can be found here

 

Appointments, Business, News

New Global CEO, Seb O’Connell announced for Org Group of Companies – Morgan McKinley, Abtran and Org

Org Global Investment Holdings, the group holding company for global talent services firm Morgan McKinley, business process managed services company Abtran, and advisory firm Org, has announced Seb O’Connell as Group Chief Executive Officer. He will take up his appointment on 2nd March.

The Group employs 3,000 people worldwide and combined annual revenues of €350 million in 2022.  By advising clients, resourcing their operations and delivering managed solutions to complex issues, the Group connects specialist talent with leading employers across multiple disciplines, industries and geographies.

Seb O’Connell’s appointment was announced and warmly welcomed by current Group CEO Ger Fitzgerald who will have a continuing involvement in the business. Ger will also remain as Board Director.

Seb O’Connell is an acknowledged global industry leader in talent and managed services, having served most recently as President for Global Markets at Cielo where he has worked for eight years. Prior to this he was a Managing Director, and member of the global leadership team, of global talent company Randstad Sourceright, and formerly Sales & Marketing Director of Spring Group PLC (acquired by Adecco in 2009), among other senior management roles throughout his career.

The Group has been on a successful transformation journey over the past three years changing from a predominantly professional staffing business to a broader based professional services business offering advisory, talent services and managed services.

Targeting future revenues of €1 billion by 2030, the Group intends to further expand its global presence bringing a next generation of services to fuel further international success in partnership with its clients and talent throughout the world.  The Group has seen significant growth in the APAC and EMEA regions supported by growing delivery centres in India, Ireland and the Philippines, underpinned by new technology platforms.

 

Current Group CEO Ger Fitzgerald said, “Seb is an energetic leader with an inherent understanding of our industry and who shares our vision for international growth built on transformative service delivery for our clients. I’m delighted to welcome him to our senior leadership team and to pass the baton to him as group CEO for our next phase of development. This reflects our intention to further expand our worldwide presence. I’m looking forward to playing an active role in the business and continuing as a board member supporting Seb and his leadership team.”

 

Pat Fitzgerald, Group Executive Chairman said, “Building on the significant success of the group over recent years under Ger’s leadership, Seb’s knowledge and experience of the global talent and managed services industry will further support our evolution. I’m excited to be  working with Ger and the rest of the board to support Seb and his executive team on the next stage of our exciting journey.”

 

Incoming Group CEO, Seb O’Connell said, “The Org group of companies has a great international reputation and track record of achievement, established over 30 years.

The Group has a clear and exciting vision for the market and the future of our industry. A vision with clearly defined solutions we can bring to bear, creating further strategic value for clients, built on the acumen and skills of our management and people. I’m excited by the opportunity to lead the energy and ambition of our team towards further global growth and success in the years to come.”

Business, Cost of Living Crisis, News

Cost-of-living not considered a key stressor for employees by business owners, research reveals

A new study finds that most UK business owners are out of touch with the causes of stress for their staff:

  • 96% of business owners surveyed think ensuring employee pay reflects inflation amid the cost-of-living crisis is not a main cause of stress for their employees.
  • 3% will take the cost-of-living increase into consideration in their employee’s pay reviews.
  • 66% would consider paying a fair salary to suit inflation, being mindful of expenses to support financial wellbeing.

 

A study released by the UK’s leading speaking bureau, Speakers’ Corner, today found that most UK business leaders fail to understand the stressors their staff face. The study canvassed the nation-wide view of 500 business owners and/or directors with at least 20% equity, for companies with at least 100 employees, on current work force trends. The research revealed that while leaders are not recognising the impact of the cost of living/soaring inflation on their staff’s stress levels, this is not down to apathy.

The data released today illustrates that businesses are aware of employee stress and interested in making changes that will aim to evade stressors but are misinformed about the causes of stress among their staff. As 92% of respondents feel they currently provide support for their employees’ wellbeing, recent research contrarily found that 16% of employees are having to consider a second job to make it through 2023, with the current cost of living.

According to business owners surveyed, the top 5 main causes of stress for their employees are:

  • Heavy workload (26%),
  • Long hours (24%),
  • Tight deadlines (22%),
  • Job security (21%) and
  • Changes to job role (20%).

This, amid the soaring inflation and cost-of-living crisis facing the UK workforce, reveals that leaders believe the stressors for their employees are directly aligned with their own stressors, listed as:

  • Heavy workload (26%)
  • Long hours (21%)
  • Tight deadlines (25%)
  • Job security (21%)
  • Changes to job role (22%)

So, it becomes clear that this lack of effective support felt by employees is not a lack of willingness or compassion from leaders in relation to workplace stress, but of misunderstanding the needs of staff; and with over half respondents (56%) agreeing that their business has been open to grant pay rises to employees who are no longer financially secure after the cost-of-living increases, one of miscommunication.

Nick Gold, Managing Director of Speakers’ Corner comments: “The research shows a chasm between employers and employees. With the cost-of-living at the top of the news agenda and the rising mortgages announced this week, all of us are facing difficult times and what is needed is a better flow of communication. Because the other side of this is that the business owners themselves face work stress, only for the reasons listed above and not for the same reasons as their employees.

“In the face of recession and the knock-on effect it will have for the British economy and productivity, business owners themselves face challenges- including understanding and motivating their teams. This can be difficult as there is a split in perspective; while employers are focussing on ensuring the business survives through the recession over the next few years, their employees struggle with the day-to-day impacts of inflation and rising cost-of living.

“It is arguably the assumption that employees stress about the same things as business owners that has caused this disconnect. But what seems to be missed here is that understanding your team and their needs can lead to a happier and more productive team, which in turn will relieve stress for those in charge.”

Ultimately, the data revealed that just 3% of respondents will take the cost-of-living increase into consideration in their employee’s pay reviews. However, 62% of those who wouldn’t, would not do so because of the time needed to implement and not because they do not think it is necessary. And almost contrarily, 66% of respondents would consider paying a fair salary to suit inflation. This means the issue is not a question of leaders being apathetic to their employees’ needs, but a misunderstanding of what is needed.

Business, Finance and Banking, News

Only 45% of British businesses feel financially ready for the UK recession, research reveals

In a pleasant surprise for the British economy, it was recently reported that UK GDP saw 0.1% growth in November, as data from the Office for National Statistics revealed.

This was contrary to expectations, with a Reuters poll of economists having forecasted a 0.2% contraction for the month, as CNBC reflects.

In the wait for December economic data to emerge, it looks like the UK might have technically averted a recession – defined as two consecutive quarters of negative growth – in 2022. However, it still appears that, as long expected, a lengthy recession is on the way.

Furthermore, research elsewhere has suggested that, worryingly, fewer than half of British businesses feel sufficiently prepared to ride the wave of the recession.

How is the 2023 economic picture shaping up for the UK?

The Bank of England has projected that the UK is set to go through a recession lasting at least four quarters, which would make it the country’s longest recession on record.

“Today’s data can hardly disguise the likelihood that whilst recessionary conditions may be shallow, an economic contraction is underway,” Jeremy Batstone-Carr, European strategist at the Florida-based banking institution Raymond James Financial, told CNBC after the 0.1% figure was published.

“What’s more, the effects of the Bank’s monetary tightening are still to feed through the economy fully. Together with the corporation tax increase to 25% and the expiration of the tax reduction on new investments, the economy only stands to contract further.”

Is your business lean enough to withstand the financial crisis?

Sadly, research by the business spending solution Pleo has found many UK companies lacking confidence in their ability to handle the looming recession.

The research, which solicited opinions from 500 UK business leaders, found 40% reporting that their clients were making budget cuts. Almost as high a percentage – 36% – said that clients had terminated account contracts altogether and created instability as a result.

In relaying revelations of the Pleo study, Fintech Finance News states that “only 45% of British businesses are feeling financially prepared to cope with the UK recession as the cost-of-living crisis continues.”

How can British businesses strap themselves in for the economic rollercoaster?

Other findings unearthed by Pleo included that economic uncertainties had led 44% of the surveyed businesses to struggle in setting budgets for 2023.

Especially concerningly, just 37% of the businesses with 50 to 99 employees claimed to feel recession ready; half of the companies with 250 to 500 employees said likewise.

“Nearly half of businesses we spoke to say getting complete visibility of financial health across all aspects of the business will be a core focus,” Abigail Slater, UK Country Manager at Pleo, has commented.

If your own company has prioritised the same objective, you could seriously consider opting for a serviced office. The Startups. website describes this as “a workplace which comes ready-furnished, with internet and phone lines pre-connected and devices already equipped.”

You could even financially streamline your search for a serviced office – such as by arranging a free consultation with the broker Office Freedom.