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News

Castle conference champions high street success in embracing technology to record customer trends in Wales

AN EVENT celebrating digital innovation and entrepreneurship in west Wales was a major success.

Organised by Antur Cymru Enterprise, the SMART Busnes Cymru Conference welcomed organisations, start-ups and individuals from across the country to historic Cardigan Castle in Ceredigion.

Together they championed the strides made by town centres and high streets embracing advances in technology – notably in recording footfall and consumer trends – and encouraged neighbouring local authorities and other stakeholders to adopt bespoke, sustainable IT solutions such as IoT (Internet of Things) and LoRaWAN.

The forum explored opportunities and challenges in Ceredigion’s ‘tech revolution’ and the impact of the SMART Busnes Project, delivered by Antur Cymru in partnership with Ceredigion County Council via the UK Government’s Shared Prosperity Fund, which has helped more than 150 start-ups and small businesses in the last year alone.

Among the speakers on the day was Antur Cymru Business Development Manager Kevin Harrington, who explained how technology is revolutionising data collection, efficiency, and connectivity in rural and urban settings.

“It was good to speak to businesses and organisations about their digital journey and share knowledge and expertise,” he said.

“We have enabled a lot of them to collaborate and talk about their issues as organisations and the challenges they face, getting people interested in IoT and technology, which is brilliant – it’s been a really successful day.”

Councillor Clive Davies, a Project Manager for Antur Cymru’s SMART Busnes programme, agreed and said: “This was a great event with people from across Wales representing different local authorities, including our own here in Ceredigion.

“It was heartening to see small businesses and councils networking and sharing ideas before, during and after the conference. Those conversations need to continue, as does the work to collaborate further with the learnings and experiences we have heard about in other parts of the country.”

Those words resonated with Brad Wilshire, a Broadband Officer with Powys County Council, who said: “It was clear from today how important it is that any sort of data is given to shops and communities, and how the technology can really get down to the basics of what is important within businesses.”

David Evans, from Wrexham’s SMART City Initiatives, later presented real-world examples of how they are using IoT to optimise operations, enhance sustainability, and boost profitability.

Explaining how moisture and temperature sensors in flowerbeds have saved around a thousand litres of water daily, and traffic and parking technology improved public safety and urban planning, he added: “Ultimately It’s not about sensors, it’s about doing things better, smarter, and cheaper.”

Jane Roche, who owns the Fisherman’s Rest and Catch of The Day venues in Cardigan, reiterated those points as SMART solutions had a positive effect on her day-to-day operations, including a move to IoT fridge sensors to ensure food safety and efficiency.

“I’m not a digital person, but this technology has been invaluable,” she said.

Meirion Davies, Director of Cardigan Castle, reinforced those comments: “The digital support from Antur Cymru has been invaluable and I would advocate that other heritage sites should look at where they can start using this SMART technology.”

Jan Martin from Snail of Happiness new and pre-loved craft supplies added: “My advice to others is to not dismiss this technology just because you are a small business, it really is worth getting to grips with and taking it forward.”

Antur Cymru’s Managing Director Bronwen Raine thanked those in attendance and said the overall feedback pointed to a “determination and need” for local authorities and town planners in Wales to utilise technology to support retailers and small businesses at a challenging time for high streets.

“These systems and solutions can give businesses detailed data and feedback which helps to make them more sustainable and efficient, cut costs and identifies the trends and habits of their customers – the results can’t be ignored.”

For more information or to book a free review for your organisation or business, visit the website: SMART Busnes – Antur Cymru Enterprise.

Alternatively, call 01239 710238 or email enquiries@anturcymru.org.uk.

News

Small businesses unite to give west Wales economy pre-Christmas gift

ENTREPRENEURS and small businesses have united to bring collaborative energy and an economic boost to communities in west Wales

And there is no better example than the bustling market town of Tregaron, where residents have either launched their own companies or taken existing ventures to the next level with the support of Antur Cymru Enterprise.

With backing from Ceredigion’s Local Business Support and Smart Busnes projects – provided by Ceredigion County Council via the UK Government’s Shared Prosperity Fund – countless traders have benefited from targeted advice, including Halen a Pupur cafe (pictured), Y Talbot Inn, Lewis and Hughes Printers, Gwen’s Cake Shop, and Welsh Homestead Smokery

They have capitalised on guidance and expertise, interactive training sessions on multiple topics – including marketing, social media, branding, and commercialisation – and the “confidence boost” needed to go it alone, as well as calling on each other when in need of space, services and extra resources.

Among them is Halen a Pupur, whose owners Claire Davies and Morfudd Pugh opened the venue in the Spring with support from Antur Cymru and an Arfor grant.

“When we first started, we were entering the unknown and needed that guidance and somebody to hold our hands and to tell us to do something a little different, to make it unique and make it our own,” said Morfudd.

Close friend Claire, who hails from Australia, added: “Antur Cymru came into our lives just weeks before we were due to open, we saw they were holding a drop-in clinic, and it was so well timed.

“We have accessed their help for all these new things we had never done before as our backgrounds were in other areas, such as applying for grants and dealing with suppliers – it made us feel assured.”

Tracy Watkin was in a very different position having acquired historic Y Talbot 14 years ago; after accessing Smart Busnes and Local Business Support she wanted to move the venue on in a “profitable way” without losing its place at the heart of the community.

“We have seen an increase in sales, more engagement with our customers and while we were not initially looking for social media and online support we ended up on that road,” she said.

“I’m really glad we did as it’s improved the business and helped us to grow our database, create newsletters and reach a new audience.”

The people and culture of Tregaron is a theme and thread of significant importance to all the traders and small businesses that have approached Antur Cymru, based in Newcastle Emlyn.

Gwenllian Bulman-Rees, who founded Gwen’s Cake Shop (Siop Cacennau Gwen) at just 14 years of age, says her passion for baking is matched by the love her loyal customers have for her delicious baked treats.

When in need of a website to spread the word further, Antur Cymru was on hand to help apply for grant funding and offer advice, as well as garnering further capital to make renovations, relocate and invest in equipment.

“Without them and the grant I would not have been able to open new premises, launch the new website and push my business to where I want it to be,” she said.

Words reinforced by Claire Jesse from Welsh Homestead Smokery, who, after five years in the industry, wanted to build on the firm’s reputation for quality and increase their product line.

“Antur Cymru helped us successfully apply for a grant to help increase the production space and the products we make, and hopefully that will eventually lead to us taking on more staff,” she said.

“I found out about them through another business in Tregaron and would encourage others to reach out and not be scared to ask for help and support, it has definitely had a positive impact on us and driven recent growth.”

The final words go to Ffion Medi Lewis-Hughes and Meilyr Wyn Hughes from Lewis and Hughes Printers, who established the company in 2019.

They are proud of the growth they have achieved, notably having launched the year before the pandemic, and with the support of Antur Cymru believe the best is yet to come.

“Just months after starting operations, the pandemic hit, impacting our ability to generate income and maintain visibility in the market,” said Ffion.

“We had to think creatively about how to keep the business afloat and while it was a major hurdle, it also pushed us to rethink our strategy and adapt, which ultimately helped us to grow.”

Meilyr added: “As a small family business, we received support from Cynnal y Cardi, Arfor, and other small business grants, without which our survival would have been much more challenging.

“The resources available, whether in the form of grants or business advice, can make a substantial difference and we now have big plans, including the potential to offer employment opportunities to young people who speak Welsh, allowing us to continue growing and evolving.”

Antur Cymru Project Manager Julie Morgan congratulated all of them on their success and hopes more entrepreneurs and existing small businesses will get in touch to find out more.

“What has been so inspirational about Tregaron is seeing how the businesses got onboard and created an infectious energy which is highly contagious and is now not only benefitting the individual organisations but the town as a whole,” she said.

“I feel a real sense of community has been created. Seeing businesses like these use each other’s facilities and services has increased confidence and connectivity and is something we will be hoping to replicate elsewhere in the future.”

For more on Antur Cymru, visit the website www.anturcymru.org.uk and follow them on social media at @AnturCymruWales.

Alternatively, call 01239 710238 or email info@anturcymru.org.uk.

News

International business leaders to headline first Welsh exports conference

INTERNATIONAL business leaders will join a unique conference promoting exports and global opportunities for companies in Wales.

The first ever Global Reach Out – GOT24 Wales (Global Opportunities to Trade) – is an event to be delivered by Wrexham-based International Trade Support Group (ITSG) and Antur Cymru on behalf of Powys County Council via the UK Government’s Shared Prosperity Fund.

It takes place at the Metropole Hotel in Llandrindod Wells, Powys, on Tuesday November 5 from 9am-4pm.

Owners and managers of some of the world’s most successful exporters, including Thomond Gate Whiskey founder Nicholas Ryan, and speakers from Japan, the US, and Ireland, will headline on the day.

ITSG World Director Clive Barnard – who has more than 30 years’ industry experience, including a decade with Business Wales – said attendees can learn all about the world of international sales and building relationships overseas, no matter the size of their organisation.

“This is a platform for businesses in Powys to network and access real opportunities to sell their products or services globally,” said Clive.

“As well as guest speakers on live video link, we will have a host of trade specialists joining us in-person from a wide range of sectors such as finance, logistics, customs and marketing.

“GOT24 Wales is a unique opportunity for businesses of all sizes to begin their export journey and forge new partnerships that could help them reach the next level, creating jobs and supporting the economy in mid-Wales.”

During the event, a new network will be launched – Traders of Celtic Nations Alliance – which will enable start-ups, SMEs and small businesses to sell their products and “celebrate the values and culture of Wales”.

Welsh Government figures released in March for the previous 12 months revealed the value of goods exports for Wales was £19.1 billion and the EU accounted for 58.7% of Welsh export values compared with 50.1% for the UK.

Export values from Wales continued to be dominated by Machinery and Transport Equipment, which made up £8.3 billion (43.2%), an increase of £0.3 billion (3.4%) compared to the year ending March 2023. ‘Mineral Fuels’ continue to be the second highest value exported product, worth £3.4 billion in the year ending March 2024, making up 17.6% of export values.

In addition to live presentations, GOT24 Wales will feature breakout sessions, networking, one-to-one surgeries, a Meet the Experts Q&A, and talks by ITSG World directors Keith Stringer and Patricia Carlin, Fuse Logistics director Lyndsey Bell, and Dominic McGough, founder and CEO of CustomsPlus, who has more than 40 years of experience including all aspects of Integrated Supply Chain and related Technologies.

Patricia added: “Wales has always punched above its weight on the world stage, and this is a conference that will showcase and celebrate that, as well as demonstrating how to lay commercial foundations overseas.

“There are so many opportunities out there in a wide range of industries and this event will offer guidance and advice on how to capitalise on them, as well as hearing from a select group of talented global entrepreneurs and experts who have done so themselves.”

Visit www.itsgworld.com and email info@ITSGworld.com to book your free place and for more news and information from International Trade Support Group (ITSG).

For more on Antur Cymru, visit the website www.anturcymru.org.uk and follow them on social media at @AnturCymruWales. Alternatively, call 01239 710238 or email info@anturcymru.org.uk.

News

Innovative business support and £3m landmark boosting trade and economy in West Wales

A RAFT of innovative business support is boosting trade and the economy in West Wales.

And nowhere more than Cardigan, where access to guidance and funding via Antur Cymru Enterprise has provided start-ups and entrepreneurs with a platform to grow in past months.

The South Ceredigion Local Business Support project, delivered by Ceredigion County Council via the UK Government’s Shared Prosperity Fund, has had a positive impact on ventures looking to develop their strategies and products.

As well as advice and expertise, small businesses have been given space at the town’s historic Guildhall market, which reopened during the summer following a £3m revamp.

Among them were Amaze Me 3D, Under the Laurel handmade jewellery, and The Craft Wife of Teifi.

Clive Davies, a Project Manager for Antur Cymru’s Smart Busnes programme, said they are already reaping the rewards.

“The Guildhall has the potential to be a destination space for Cardigan, and I’m sure will attract a lot of footfall,” he added.

“It’s great to see their progress in taking an idea through to their own trading space and business.

“This Antur Cymru project has been a big support to them and others, and I’m so pleased they had the confidence to relocate to the market, which as it develops will benefit them even further.”

As well as offering a space to trade, advisors are delivering training workshops and one-to-one advice to existing stall holders at the Guildhall.

In addition to the South Ceredigion Local Business Support project and Smart Busnes, local start-ups have capitalised on the Cynnal y Cardi Fund – also delivered by Ceredigion County Council via the UK Government’s Shared Prosperity Fund – which aims to support and engage local people, businesses and communities in delivering sustainable solutions to address some of the economic, social and environmental challenges facing the Ceredigion area.

Beverley Winn, owner of The Craft Wife of Teifi, has now based her sustainable crafts venture at the Guildhall, as well as receiving advice on visual merchandising and administrative tasks.

“Without the encouragement and ‘hand holding’ throughout the process I wouldn’t have had the self-belief and confidence to launch and run my little business,” she said.

“I only started three months ago at the Antur Cymru trading space in Cardigan and have now relocated, which has enabled me to continue running things – the rent is affordable – and engage with the local community, especially neurodivergent young adults who are highly creative.

“I buy and sell their items through my shop, and they also help with serving customers and learning new communication skills, which has had a positive impact on their self-esteem and confidence.”

“For me, that is a mark of success, rather than any monetary gain.”

Another to join the Guildhall was Loren Nash, who founded Under the Laurel in 2021 after learning to make bespoke jewellery – and later painted designs for greeting cards and prints – during the Covid-19 pandemic.

“I would not have been able to do this had it not been for the encouragement and support of Antur Cymru and the low risk of trying a new product in the shop initially,” she said.

“And now, being in the Guildhall has allowed me to have a permanent base for local customers and opened my business up to the tourist trade. It’s the first time I’ve been able to see my products in a space that I decorated and designed. It makes me so happy every time I walk in there.”

Loren added: “A constant challenge for me is my health. I have a disability called Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome, which is unfortunately degenerative, so I am always constantly adapting how I work.

“But that won’t stop me working towards my goal – with the support of my partner, Rob – to have a shop on the high street where I can set aside a percentage of my profits to pour into free art workshops, where people can turn up to create, relax and possibly learn a new skill.

“Antur Cymru afforded me the opportunity to grow my product base and gave me the belief in myself that I could run my business from a bricks and mortar location, and I’ll always be thankful for that.”

Others in Cardigan to have accessed the services of Antur Cymru this year are Theo Latham, who produces stylish card wallets made from Italian leather; Andrea Edwards, whose Amaze Me 3D venture uses 3D printers to build model animals and dinosaurs from sustainable materials; Three Little Pigs, which sells high-end crafts and furniture online, and Neil Croucher, whose Mellangell brand is growing in popularity, creating stained-glass art, jewellery, candles and more.

For more on Antur Cymru, visit the website www.anturcymru.org.uk and follow them on social media at @AnturCymruWales.

Alternatively, call 01239 710238 or email info@anturcymru.org.uk.

News

Businesses break new ground and help boost Mid Wales economy with enterprise backing

BUSINESSES are breaking new ground and blooming nicely with the support of Antur Cymru.

Start-ups and entrepreneurs in Mid Wales have benefited from the organisation’s guidance and advice, with several accessing transformative funding via the Powys Growth Grant.

Among them were Beyond Breakout escape rooms, Seren Handmade, and Keridwen Garden Design.

All three companies are owned by inspirational women working to support the regional economy, following their dreams and creating long-term employment opportunities.

Beyond Breakout, based near Llanidloes, was launched by friends Lorna Morris and Jo Woodall just weeks before the Covid-19 pandemic hit the UK in 2020.

The last five years have been “a rollercoaster ride” but their mobile escape rooms business is now doing a roaring trade, working closely with schools and welcoming a wide range of customers for team building, stag and hen parties and more.

“Antur Cymru has been a huge support, the grant we received enabled us to put together a new plan focused on growth, and we have received brilliant advice whenever we needed it on a range of issues, notably SEO,” said Lorna.

“We decided to change direction and take the product out into the community – largely due to the pandemic – to make the business more sustainable for the future.

“The outdoor escape rooms and offer we have for schools have been well received, notably for Year 6 children transitioning to high school, and we are constantly developing ideas.”

Jo added: “We built escape rooms for a previous employer and loved doing it, so to now have our own company and for it to be doing so well is fantastic.

“It’s been a rollercoaster ride, but we have a clear vision for the future, especially in the projects we have with education, feeding into the Welsh curriculum and adding a lot of value – it’s an exciting time.”

The same can be said for Crickhowell-based Keridwen Garden Design, whose founder Kathleen Robinson capitalised on more than two decades working in sustainable horticulture.

Having left the office for the outdoors, she called on the support of Antur Cymru to write a business plan and received a grant which helped her to buy equipment including a polytunnel, laptop and design software.

“I had spent so long telling people about the benefits of being outside in the garden and nature and the positive impact on health and wellbeing that I took the leap and decided to do it myself!” said Kathleen.

“With my knowledge of plants and wildlife I offer a unique service and despite only opening earlier this year I already have a waiting list, it’s been amazing.”

She added: “What I do is very much a partnership with the client, we are on a journey together, whether it’s general advice or maintenance and design.

“Helping to build their confidence is another aspect to this, and my confidence as I had no prior experience of running a business. The support of Antur Cymru was invaluable, they were helpful in guiding me to write a business plan and look at financial forecasts, which was all new to me.

“That really restructured my thinking and helped me take this from a hobby to a livelihood.”

Meanwhile, Lauren Garbutt, owner of Seren Handmade bespoke personalised clothing and embroidery in Newtown, has experience significant growth in 2024 which led to the mum-of-three purchasing new equipment, being nominated for the Sole Trader title at the Powys Business Awards and moving to the Antur Cymru Trading Space at Bear Lanes Shopping Centre.

“I was contacted by business advisor Emma Jehu to discuss my venture and have received so much support ever since, from information regarding grants and advice to marketing techniques,” said Lauren.

“I was already very much present on social media and attending shows and events, but they have helped with networking and meeting new contacts, advice on SEO and which ecommerce platforms to use.

“I would love for the business to keep growing, eventually allowing me to expand my workspace and also employ a member of staff while I am on the road, so I can visit events and shows even further afield and spread the word about Seren Handmade.”

Emma congratulated all the companies for their dedication and commitment and urged other small business owners and start-ups to contact the organisation.

“We are so happy to hear these stories, this is why we do what we do,” she said.

“Helping people take an idea or concept to reality and help them achieve their dreams is so heartening and has a knock-on effect for the economy in Mid Wales.

“Antur Cymru is here for anyone in the region who wants advice and guidance on how to take their business to the next level, so get in touch to see how we can help.”

For more on Antur Cymru, visit the website www.anturcymru.org.uk and follow them on social media at @AnturCymruWales.

Alternatively, call 01239 710238 or email info@anturcymru.org.uk.

News

Booming promotions business approaching 35th anniversary targets net zero with expansion

AN international supplier of promotional products approaching 35 years in business has expanded its operations while targeting net zero.

Flint-based Preseli Ltd successfully lowered its carbon footprint after receiving a grant from the Carbon Reduction Feasibility Fund.

The 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.

A trade-only importer and supplier of merchandise, gifts and promotional goods, Preseli was supported by Pathway to Carbon Zero and Litegreen in finding the most eco-friendly way to decarbonise their Castle Park headquarters and warehouse while constructing a new eco-friendly office.

The 17-strong company – a subsidiary of Preseli Enterprises Ltd in Hong Kong – is also exploring renewable energy options in a bid to become even more sustainable, having increased its range of ‘green’ services and switched to sea freight where possible to minimise emissions.

“As a company we are very aware of our carbon impact and that of the industry we are in and wish to be proactive in reducing our carbon footprint where possible,” said Managing Director, Dave Wilson.

“Having access to support from consultant Becky Morgan has been fantastic, her wealth of knowledge and contacts are helping us form longer-term carbon reduction plans.”

Working with Pathway to Carbon Zero, Preseli began the process of installing solar panels on its premises.

“We have also installed light sensors in toilets, LED lighting and are promoting good practice, such as switching off electrical appliances when not in use, reviewing staff transport and replacing appliances with more energy efficient alternatives,” said Dave.

“As a business we are looking at all areas, from the recycling of polyester lanyards into RPET pellets, to donating to relevant charities and joining Flint Litter Pickers in a bid to become a litter free business zone.

“This has been a very positive exercise and having the support available when needed is invaluable. We are now more confident in our approach and thankful for the advice and guidance we have received via the Carbon Reduction Feasibility Fund.”

Aimed at organisations in Flintshire, the Fund received £297,294 from the UK Government through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund, with grants available for 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: “To receive such positive feedback is fantastic, and I’m sure the results will have a long-lasting and positive effect for Preseli Ltd, and other companies and organisations across the region.”

For more on the Carbon Reduction Feasibility Fund, visit www.anturcymru.org.uk/flintshire, email flintshirefund@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.

Visit Promotional Products Promotional Pens, Lanyards Corporate Gifts (preseli.biz) for more info about Preseli Ltd.

News

North Wales venue aiming to become first net zero social club in UK

A POPULAR social club which poured its efforts into becoming net zero is reaping the rewards.

Ewloe Social and Community Club has successfully lowered its carbon footprint after receiving a grant from the Carbon Reduction Feasibility Fund.

The 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 club, which has been a mainstay in Flintshire since 1938, used the money to bring in experts to carry out a Carbon Reduction Feasibility Study, which highlighted areas in need of improvement.

Solutions included an insulated roof, alternative heating, a switch to renewable energy and PV solar battery storage.

Club secretary Paul Roberts said: “This support helped us to identify exactly what we needed to do to make this a viable operation for the future, a sustainable building for the local community and more energy efficient.

“The funding for the feasibility study was absolutely key to the decision-making process which has seen us install solar panels, insulate the roof and walls, and eventually we will look to fit automated doors.”

He added: “It has made a financial difference to us as we were spending thousands of pounds trying to keep the club warm, and it’s much more comfortable for our members and visitors.

“We have more and more organisations now using this space, which is of benefit to the whole community.

“Our aim is to be the first net zero social club in the UK, and we are on our way – we will keep working hard to get there.”

The club is already generating almost 21,000kwh of renewable energy annually, according to installers JM Renewable Solutions, equating to £5,858 of free electricity per year.

Aimed at organisations in Flintshire, the Carbon Reduction Feasibility received £297,294 from the UK Government through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund, with grants available for 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 are thrilled to see how the feasibility study led to positive change for Ewloe Social and Community Club.

“Importantly, it gave them guidance on what strategy and approach to take, and since redeveloping the site and adopting more sustainable methods they have already seen the financial, social, and environmental benefits.

“The substantial carbon and cost savings will improve the long-term sustainability and viability of the venue, and we wish them good luck on their journey to becoming net zero.”

For more on the Carbon Reduction Feasibility Fund, visit www.anturcymru.org.uk/flintshire, email flintshirefund@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.

Visit Ewloe Sports & Social Club in Deeside (ewloesportsandsocialclub.co.uk) for the latest news from Ewloe Social and Community Club.

News

Small businesses in Wales take flight with free international export programme

SMALL businesses will take flight by capitalising on export opportunities with the support of Antur Cymru Enterprise.

The Global Reach Out Programme is funded by UK Government, powered by Levelling Up and delivered by Antur Cymru Enterprise in collaboration with International Trade Support Group and Powys County Council.

The project explores trade and overseas partnerships via a series of funded remote and in-person training sessions which resume this month.

Delivered by international trade advisor Clive Barnard – who has more than 30 year’s industry experience, including a decade with Business Wales – attendees from across the region can learn all about the world of international sales and customer relations, no matter the size of their commercial operation.

As part of a small team of industry experts who launched ITSG in 2019 – and subsequently the Wrexham-based Centre for International Trade Support – Clive says small and independent companies in any sector should target exports, particularly given the economic and social challenges of recent times.

“Our Never Too Small to Export programme with Antur Cymru demonstrates there is a market out there for all businesses, especially at a grass roots level,” said Clive.

“In fact, many smaller firms have already sold products or dealt with customers outside the UK to some extent and have experience of dealing in exports, but don’t consider that an avenue to pursue further.”

He added: “In Wales since the pandemic – and this is certainly the case in Powys and rural areas of north and mid Wales – there are many talented independents in different sectors, especially retail, selling online and in a position to capitalise on the huge demand out there – we can help them do it.

“There have been geopolitical events which have affected international trade – Covid 19 and Brexit for example – so we navigate any issues and look at the principles from targeting which countries to sell to, distribution, transport and logistics, documentation and more.

“The feedback has been very positive so far and I’m sure interest will grow in the months ahead.”

The course runs over 10 weeks and runs parallel with other support packages delivered under the Global Reach Out Programme

While the project is for a matter of weeks ITSG’s involvement continues via guidance and advice as the entrepreneurs look at entry into relevant markets and start building relationships overseas.

Additional advice around wider business topics is also available through Antur’s Local Business Support Project.

“By combining Antur’s reputation for excellence in business support with our experience and partnerships, including with various embassies, we have a robust understanding of opportunities to enable local businesses to grow their markets,” said Clive.

Bronwen Raine, Managing Director of Antur Cymru, added: “So many small businesses are unaware of the many opportunities out there globally, not just here in the UK or on their doorstep.

“This programme explores where they are and how to make the most of them, so we hope to see a good turnout later this month. As an organisation that has worked to support businesses for more than 40 years, it is fantastic to be able to expand our offer into this specialist area with the support of ITSG ”

For more on Antur Cymru, visit the website www.anturcymru.org.uk and follow them on social media at @AnturCymruWales.

Alternatively, call 01239 710238 or email info@anturcymru.org.uk. Visit www.itsgworld.com for more news and information from International Trade Support Group (ITSG).

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.

News

Granddaughter saves family sweet shop from extinction with help of Antur Cymru Enterprise

NATASHA Osinga has enjoyed a sweet start to life in business with the support of Antur Cymru Enterprise.

When Yum Yum traditional sweet shop in Cardigan shut down in September, there was sadness among loyal customers.

The family business was founded by the Osinga family in 2001 and became a popular part of the high street for more than two decades.

And now it’s back, with the original owners’ granddaughter Natasha at the helm.

She called on Antur Cymru, based in Newcastle Emlyn, for help to reopen the beloved store and was given guidance and advice by business advisor Barry Morgan as part of the Cymorth Busnes Lleol / Local Business Support programme, which is funded by UK Government and driven by Levelling-Up via Ceredigion County Council.

As well as successfully applying for a start-up loan to install new fixtures and fittings, purchase stock and secure new suppliers, Natasha has now taken on five permanent and seasonal staff.

Just a few weeks into life at Yum Yum, she is thrilled with the response:

“It’s busier than I ever expected, since the opening day it’s been absolutely non-stop!” said Natasha.

“As the store has been in the family so long, I really didn’t want to see it empty or run by someone else, so it was brilliant to be able to bring it back to life.

“Thanks so much to everyone who has shown myself and Yum Yum so much support, I am so grateful and look forward to many more years here in Cardigan.”

With the backing of her family, the mum-of-three said she would not have been able to realise her vision without the help of Antur Cymru.

“They were amazing, especially Barry who guided me through the whole process, which was vital as it’s not something I had any experience of before,” said Natasha.

“I’m already diversifying, and we’ve had bookings to supply for parties and weddings, so that’s an area I hope to grow in the months ahead, as well as introducing exciting new sweets and treats for our customers.

“I feel more confident, and we are in a good place, so I’m excited for the future.”

Barry added: “It was a pleasure to be able to guide Natasha from her initial interest in taking on the business through to the opening day, which was a real celebration.

“We are pleased to have been able to support her on this amazing journey, and other traders on the bustling Cardigan high street, which has really come to life since the new year.

“As an organisation we are committed to helping business owners, entrepreneurs and anyone with a germ of an idea, and have the tools and resources to help make their dreams a reality – that was certainly the case here, congratulations Natasha!”

For more on Yum Yum Sweets, visit the Facebook page: www.facebook.com/yumyumsweetscardigan.

For more on Antur Cymru, visit the website www.anturcymru.org.uk and follow them on social media at @AnturCymruWales. Alternatively, call 01239 710238 or email info@anturcymru.org.uk.