Taking on a business partner - issues to consider

If your business is growing, you will probably need to take on additional manpower. 

If you are a cash rich business with a strong cash flow position, you can buy the skills you need through taking on an employee or using a self-employed contractor or consultant, without giving away any equity in your business. 

However, there may be circumstance which make taking on a partner an attractive proposition. Here are some pros and cons of taking on a partner for you to consider before committing to a partnership agreement.

The advantages of taking on a partner

1. Creativity. The old adage holds true: two heads are better than one. Taking on a partner can increase creativity.
2. Complementary skills and abilities. If you take on a partner with different areas of expertise from yourself, this will strengthen the business.
3. Sharing the load. Bringing on a partner will mean sharing the heavy workload of the sole trader and sharing the risk associated with running your own business.
4. Motivation. A partner will be motivated to work for the business more than an employee or contractor as they jointly own it.
5. Capital input. A new partner will typically buy into a business, bringing an influx of capital which can be used to finance growth.

The disadvantages of taking on a partner

1. Equity split. A partner will be taking a share of the profits. This has to be weighed against the additional benefits that they will bring to the business.
2. Liability. In a standard partnership arrangement, the partners are jointly and severally liable, meaning that they are jointly responsible for the debts of the business, whoever incurred them.
3. Control. Taking on a partner necessarily means some loss of control as you become jointly responsible for decision-making. If these responsibilities are not spelled out at the start, then this is likely to be a source of conflict.
4. Disagreements. You may find that your partner has different long-term goals or different working patterns or that you have disagreements about the way things should be done. These are issues which need to be discussed before entering into a partnership arrangement.
5. Irreconcilable differences. At some point, one or both of you may want to dissolve the partnership. If you have not agreed on an exit strategy, this could lead to the collapse of the business.
6. Partnership tax return. A partnership has an additional level of reporting responsibility. A new partnership must be registered with HMRC immediately and in addition to each partner’s individual tax return, one of the partners must complete the partnership tax return stating the profits of the partnership and each partner’s share.

Dorset Chamber of Commerce and Industry

We've invited Dorset Chamber of Commerce & Industry to make a guest post, to let us know what they offer to the county's businesses.

Established in 1949, Dorset Chamber of Commerce & Industry has a long and proud tradition of serving the business community.

The Chamber represents businesses of all sizes and sectors from across the County of Dorset and beyond delivering the very best services, business information and advice. We are here to support your business throughout its lifecycle from start-up, development, growth and beyond.

Membership of Dorset Chamber of Commerce & Industry focuses on three key elements; Profile Raising, Networking and Business Support:

Raising Members’ Profile in the area
Your press releases submitted into our monthly Dorset Business Magazine, distributed to 5,000 businesses in Dorset
Company profile on Dorset Chamber website
Entry into Member2Member discount scheme
Unique Event Sponsorship & Marketing Opportunities on the Newsletter and website
Access to Membership Database

Networking
Discounts on our 70 events held each year, including Breakfasts, Lunches and Dinners
Structured Table Moves for you to meet complementary business people
Exclusive Signature Events aimed at MD’s, Chief Executives and Business Owners
Discount on tickets to the prestigious Dorset Business Awards

Business Support
Discounted Training courses, on topics such as Health & Safety, Google Analytics, Social Media, Management Performance & Business Planning
Free Business Clinics
Sector Specific Tender Alerts
Access to Money Saving Services and Member2Member discounts to reduce the cost of running your business

Let us put your views to Government through the British Chambers of Commerce Policy Team

With our membership supporting over 60,000 employees in Dorset, it’s crucial that our offering reflects this, and so this year has seen a number of different benefits introduced, including the launch of two benefits purely designed for the employees of Member companies:

Chamber Online Health & Safety Training
Member companies can rest assured that their staff are compliant with requirements of the Health & Safety at Work Act 1974 through this cost-effective and easy to use online training tool. Courses covered include general H&S subjects, plus industry specific courses.


Chamber Health Affinity Programme
With rising levels of sickness in the workplace and absenteeism, this is a topic high on business owner’s agendas. In association with Nuffield Health Bournemouth Hospital, Chamber Health Affinity Programme allows managers and staff of Dorset Chamber Member companies to take advantage of benefits including discounts on diagnostics tests and hospital fees for in-patient procedures, access and discount for Nuffield Health Bournemouth Hospital’s Private GP Service, health screening and wellness tests, plus free health specific clinics and Education Events.

Not only can we offer all these benefits through our standard membership, but we can also offer enhanced benefits through our Patron membership.

Recognising that every business has an individual set of requirements, we launched two new tiers of Patronage this year, expanding our offer to Bronze, Silver and Gold packages.


For further details on membership to Dorset Chamber of Commerce & Industry, please go to our website www.dcci.co.uk/membership or contact Karen Homer on 01202 714809 / karen.homer@dcci.co.uk

All VAT returns must be made online from April 2012

If you're still submitting VAT returns on paper, be prepared to switch to doing it online by next April. You'll also be required to make VAT payments electronically, rather than sending a cheque.

At the moment firms with a turnover in excess of £100k, or which are newly registered, are required to make their VAT returns online and make electronic payments.

But all returns and payment for VAT accounting periods starting on or after 1 April 2012 must be processed online and electronically, for firms of all sizes.

HMRC is encouraging businesses to switch from paper to online processing as soon as possible, to avoid the last minute rush.

The benefits of online filing of a VAT return include:

- an automatic acknowledgement that your return has been received
- a useful arithmetic checker to help make sure you’ve done your sums correctly
- an email alert to remind you when your next online return is due (after April, HMRC will stop sending out paper returns to customers who are now required to file online).

To file your VAT return online, you’ll need to register for HMRC’s VAT Online Service – visit www.online.hmrc.gov.uk and click “Register” under the “New user” section. Then follow the instructions.

You'll also need to set up your preferred method of electronic payment. Visit www.hmrc.gov.uk/payinghmrc/vat.htm for more information on the options available.

More help and advice can be found on the HMRC’s website at www.hmrc.gov.uk/vat. If that doesn’t answer your questions, call the VAT Online Services Helpdesk on 0845 010 8500 (available between 8am and 6pm, Monday to Friday).

Dorset Professionals Group celebrates its first Christmas

This is a guest post from Matt Haines, who recently started a new Dorset business networking group.

Following on from a hugely successful first event in September, Wednesday 14 December sees the Dorset Professional Group's Christmas Quiz Night at The Colliton Club, Dorchester.

I formed the group, with the support of Old Mill, after noticing an opportunity for a more social, relaxed networking event in the area. The group is aimed at professionals in Dorset who are below Director/Partner level, with the view of creating a second tier network which, over time, develops into the top tier. The relaxed atmosphere allows members to get to know each other on a more personal level, which can surely only help a professional relationship to develop!

Our first event was a skittles and curry night at the Victoria Hotel, Dorchester. Attendance was phenomenal with over 30 solicitors, bankers, accountants, land agents and other professionals turning out to take to the alley! A champagne prize draw was well received at the end of the evening - something which will be repeated at future events.  We used this night as an opportunity to get feedback on how members would like to see the group operated, as well as proposals for future events. The general consensus was a quiz night...so that's what we're doing!

Due to the time of year the group is having to compete with the office party season but early indications are that we have been victorious, with around 30 people expected for next week's event. A mixture of both familiar and new faces are due to attend and pit their wits against some questions carefully crafted by myself and Old Mill marketing manager, Kim Lowe. Fans of The Office will be pleased to hear that currently there are no plans to settle tied scores by hurling shoes over the venue...but all could yet change!

My vision for the future of the group is to hold a quarterly event, rotated between Dorchester, Weymouth and Bridport. To maintain numbers at current levels would be a fantastic achievement, but, being an optimist, I'm always looking to improve so I'm hoping to continue to build numbers as the group evolves.

Lastly, a couple of "thank you's" to Weymouth & Portland Chamber of Commerce, and Barry White of Humphries Kirk for their kind support in helping the group's invites reach the masses. Something I'm extremely grateful for.

For further information on the group, or to register for events please contact me on the following:

Emai: matt.haines@oldmillgroup.co.uk
Telephone: 01305 755640
Twitter: @OMDorsetProfs or @Matt_Haines_ACA
www.oldmillgroup.co.uk

ID Group makes a national treasure movie

Dorset design and marketing company, ID Group, has completed an exciting element of the new Mary Rose Museum in Portsmouth.

Due to open in late 2012, the £35 million project will combine the best 21st century design and construction methods to showcase the remains of the historic Tudor warship.  Bournemouth based ID Group has produced a CGI film detailing key aspects of the new museum, as well as bringing historical drawings to life.

The film has been shown to a number of audiences, including HRH Prince Harry, The Mary Rose Trust and its donors. It was also presented in Paris at the international conference of Bouygues, the global construction and services groups, of which Warings, who are building the museum, are a part.

ID Group Managing Director, Mark Masters, said of the project: "We had to depict a new building by creating areas from scratch so the Mary Rose Trust could see for the first time how the museum will look when walking around the interior. We also had to highlight how some of the conserved artefacts recovered from the site would be displayed."

Next year will mark 30 years since the nation was glued to the television watching the Tudor warship breaking the surface of the Solent. To mark the anniversary, the Mary Rose Trust will open the new museum, bringing the hull and many of the 19,000 artefacts that were raised with her together once again.

Mark said: "The computer generated images highlight what it was like for the 500 men on board the Tudor warship and work as a teaching tool as well as providing insights into the future for the museum.”

Warings Technical Director, Colin Tedder, said: "The museum represents the very best in modern architecture and is designed to sensitively display a collection of genuine historical significance. The CGI film captures precisely our intentions and adds a whole new dimension."

The film will be shown to further audiences in advance of the opening of the new museum. It can be viewed here.

Dorset accountants Inspire named best independent firm in south west England

Poole based accountancy firm Inspire has won recognition for being the most forward-thinking independent practice in the south west of England.

Inspire has been awarded the title 'Best Independent Firm' in the region at the British Accountancy Awards 2011. The ceremony, held in Old Billingsgate Market, London, was attended by over 800 representatives from many of the UK's leading accounting firms.

In awarding the title to Inspire the judges said: “This was an easy choice. They impressed their clients, were innovative and showed good involvement in the community. They caught our attention with their international focus and expert focus.”

Inspire was founded in 2004 with a vision of being a proactive and relationship-based advisory firm serving entrepreneurs and owner-managers.

Speaking of the achievement, Warren Munson, MD of Inspire, said: “This is another great achievement for Inspire and our team. We pride ourselves on being different to other firms in the area by focusing on real business needs and offering true value added services to our clients in addition to standard compliance.”

This isn't Inspire's first accolade. In 2009 they won the Accountancy Age 'Small Firm of the Year' award.

The British Accountancy Awards are the only awards dedicated to the accountancy profession in practice. They are run in partnership with the ACCA, a leading professional body, and succeed the Accountancy Age awards.

Well done to everyone at Inspire for raising the profile of accountants here in the south west of England.

Dorset businesswoman awards £20k prize in franchise competition

Blending elements of 'The Apprentice' with 'Dragons' Den', Dorset entrepreneur Stephanie Pettitt has given the chance of a lifetime to an aspiring business owner.

The winner of the £20,000 prize, of the complete Equation Accounting franchise package, was selected through a Win Your Own Business competition.

Following an online application process, 32 candidates were whittled down to 6 finalists, who delivered pitches to the judging panel.

The prize franchise went to budding entrepreneur Anna Ward, a second year marketing student from Bournemouth University. Her inspiring and well researched pitch astounded judges with her confidence and in-depth understanding of Equation Accounting’s values and spirit.

Anna will complete a seven week intensive training course in preparation to launch her Equation franchise which will offer the full range of Equation accounting packages and services.

A one year work placement was offered as a surprise second prize to Kajal Bakrania after her impressive, infectious and persuasive pitch to the panel.

Stephanie Pettitt, founder of Equation Accounting, said she ran the competition to combat the “doom and gloom” of the unemployment crisis and get people thinking about starting their own businesses again. Stephanie said “I am on an absolute mission to encourage people to believe in themselves and start their own businesses from their creative ideas.”

The winning prize was presented by multi award-winning licensee and restaurateur< Ali Carter. “Seeing these amazing young people pitch so professionally and confidently in front of a prestigious judging panel and room full of accomplished businessmen and women from all over Dorset was overwhelming” said Ali.

The Equation Team like to give special thanks to all those who took part, in particular the candidates, Special Guest Ali Carter, Judging panel Ian Girling (WSX Enterprise), Karen Rickman (Dorset Chamber), Joanna Davis (The Dorset Echo), Nick Maybour (McDonalds Restaurants), Fabrice M'Pollo (Business Mania Director of Entrepreneurship), Rhyannan Hurst (Bournemouth University) and Clive Ozzard (Business Link).

Stephanie plans to launch a Dorset wide ‘Young Apprentice’ style competition in the summer aimed at young entrepreneurs who aspire to run their own business for a £1,000 cash prize.

Business Link replacements - what's out there?

It can be hard for you, as the owner of one of the UK’s 4.8 million small businesses, to get the impartial advice that you need.

While you may be an expert in your particular field, running a successful business requires making good decisions across a number of areas. Choosing the right business funding, legal structure, finance and IT systems and marketing strategies are just some of the issues you need to address. 

Making the wrong decision can be, at best, an expensive mistake and, at worse, could lead to failure. 

The government’s announced closure of much of the Business Link service removes a major free source of help to small firms. For years, Business Link advisors have offered support and guidance in various forms, but from this month, the service is reduced to a website and contact centre.

Business Link replacements

Fortunately, there are alternatives to Business Link. Some have been around for a while whilst others are launching to help fill the gap that’s being left. Here’s a list of the options we’re aware of.

Business Advice Service: This was launched recently by the Institute of Chartered Accountants in England and Wales (ICAEW). The accounting firms involved will offer an initial, free, bespoke consultation to small firms. The ICAEW is currently recruiting firms for this new Business Advice Service.

Business Link: The Business Link website that was launched in 2004 will continue, along with a new telephone helpline. This website is being enhanced from this month to include new, easy-to-use services. This will be supplemented by a dedicated, trained, business support team.

Chambers of Commerce: When Mark Prisk, business and enterprise minister, announced the reduction in Business Link services, he said that he wanted to see more advice and support coming from the private sector. 

Some of this could be through local Chambers of Commerce, who already supply valuable support and networking services to their members. For firms in Dorset, there is a county-wide Chamber and many local chambers.

Local Enterprise Partnerships: Intended to replace Regional Development Agencies, these Local Enterprise Partnerships (LEPs) would allow the public and private sector to ‘take charge of the local economy’. A year after they were announced, many are still in the early stages of being established.

Private sector solutions: Even when Business Link was in operation, the majority of English SMEs preferred to use private sector solutions. (Alternative schemes operate in Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland). Some ex-Business Link providers, such as WSX Enterprise in Dorset, are continuing their support services.

New Dorset social network whirls into life

A new social network is about to launch in Weymouth this weekend.

When Justine Blythe relocated to Weymouth in 2010, she realised that sometimes it can be difficult to make new friends in a new town, so she decided to launch a brand new social network called “My Social Whirl”.

One of the biggest social changes in the last ten years in affluent societies has been the increase in single person households. This is due to a variety of factors including the rise in divorce rates, increasing numbers of lone parents and young professionals moving around and living alone for longer.

Over the next twenty years single person households are predicted to increase by over four million to nearly eleven million in the UK alone.  Loneliness can have a detrimental effect on health, both physical and mental.

Studies have shown a direct link to increases in heart disease, high blood pressure and the incidence of cancer in patients who are lonely. Chronic loneliness can also be a major contributing factor in depression.Socially isolated people are shown to have shorter life spans than those with a support network of close friends and family.

These factors have contributed to the explosion in the number of social networking sites on the internet in recent years.However, chatting to someone on-line is no substitute for actual face to face interactions with friends.

My Social Whirl is a response to this. The network launches on Saturday 19th November 2011, 8pm at The Kazzbar, Banus, The Esplanade, Weymouth. The event is free to attend, but places limited. To book a place email livelife@mysocialwhirl.com.

Guests will enjoy entertainment from Spanish guitarist Jon Pickard plus cocktails and canapés produced by baristas and chefs at The Kazzbar.

Justine Blythe, Director of My Social Whirl said “I am a very sociable person yet I still found it hard to make new friends , so the aim of the company is to allow people to make lots of friends, go on many and varied social events and try new exciting experiences.  Members will be able to interact on line too and arrange their own events or join specific interest groups. Members will be personally introduced to each other to avoid any awkward moments.  Events include Christmas Shopping, January Gourmet Evening, Pub Quiz, and a Spa Day.”

More information can be found at www.mysocialwhirl.com or by emailing livelife@mysocialwhirl.com

Reece invests in a camera and freelance career

Reece de Ville has converted a passion for horror movie make-up into successful self-employment as a Dorset-based filmmaker.

A youthful diet of Hammer films and American splatter movies cut deep into his imagination and after leaving university he found employment as a make-up artist. Within a few years, Reece was working for the BBC's Future Media and Technology Department.

Not surprisingly, getting his hands on a BBC camera wasn't difficult and Reece soon earned a reputation as an internal filmmaker. He added creative flair to what could otherwise have been dull, corporate videos, bringing depth through new angles and stories.

As with so many who've turned to self-employment, the process began with redundancy. When the BBC unit closed, Reece took the opportunity to leave with a pot of cash to invest in his own business.

Establishing an independent filmmaking business isn't cheap. HD cameras, computers, editing software and simply paying the bills ate quickly into the capital Reece had managed to acquire.

Fortunately, he discovered that social media could be a highly effective, and relatively inexpensive, marketing tool. Combined with the adrenalin-fuelled enthusiasm which accompanies a new venture and a sharp eye for the creative, Reece began to win business.

Profitable in his first trading year, Reece is seeing steady growth both in his income and his client base. Happy customers include the BBC, Bournemouth University and the Arts Council, and singer-songwriter Thea Gilmore. He currently works alone, providing both the filming and editing services that his customers require.

Cash flow is a common challenge for start-ups. Reece also ran into the challenge of maintaining confidence after the first few months. "After the first six months, you may find a month here or there where work isn't as forthcoming." His advice is to remember "that you are still good at your job" and to "think of the great work you've done - focus on the positives".

Reece gives credit for some of his success to the support and inspiration of his wife, Zoe, and his baby son, Harrison.

He has two more words of wisdom for others starting out on the road to self-employment. The first is to make full use of social networks for marketing, such as Twitter, Facebook and Google+. "Use these to share work and ideas with like-minded businesses."

The second is simply this: "You've set up your own business - enjoy it, ride out the hard times and always remember: you're brilliant."

To discover more about Reece's business, visit his filmmaking website.

Read more business start up stories like this one.

Open4Business expands to cover all Dorset

South & West Dorset Open4Business, which began in Weymouth and Portland, now plans to serve all of Dorset.

Julie Cleaver, Managing Director of Open 4 Business Dorset said:  “Open4Business is set to expand and grow its offer in 2012, but will continue as a Community Interest Company supported by local businesses, business organisations such as the Chamber and local authorities."

"Traditionally Open 4 Business has been a 2 week business festival held in October each year, but in 2012 Open 4 Business will offer an annual programme of events, conferences and exhibitions throughout the year with a series of Awards in October/November."

"Originally Open 4 Business was created just for businesses in Weymouth & Portland following the departure of the Royal Navy. In 2007 the geographical area was widened to include businesses in West Dorset, Purbeck and Weymouth & Portland, however in 2012, Open 4 Business will be open to ANY business in the Dorset and the organisation will be known as Open 4 Business Dorset CIC”.

The 2011 South & West Dorset Open4Business festival programme closed with a “Winning Business Seminar” which took place on Thursday 20th October at the Ocean Room, Weymouth Pavilion.

During the 18 day festival over 750 businesses engaged with Open 4 Business through events and awards, a 15% increase on 2010. Award entries were up 10% and 67% of Award entries came from businesses who entered for the first time.
For more information please visit www.o4business.co.uk

Book Review - 'Get Noticed'

Life, it seems, is unfair. Attempts to level the playing field, to give equal opportunities, to avoid favouritism, are imperfect. Instead we often see the well-connected and the confident succeed, leaving the rest of us to mutter ‘if only’ under our breath.

‘Get Noticed’, by Marcus Taylor and Rob Lawrence, promises to change all that. While it can’t fix the inherent unfairness of life, it can help you to join the ranks of the successful by showing you how to raise your profile and your self-confidence.

This short book won't guarantee that you’ll become a major celebrity in whatever field you choose to play in, but it gives you a strong nudge in the right direction.

It is an essential read for anyone wanting to get better results from their business networking.

Having read it, you surely can’t fail, even subconsciously, to implement some of its strategies. You’re probably using some of them already, without being aware of the impact they’re having on your profile with those around you.

‘Get Noticed’ draws your attention to the attitudes and actions of successful people, and explains how they can also work for you.

The simplest things, such as dressing in a way which makes you feel confident, or learning how to engage in meaningful small talk, can make a huge difference to the way others perceive you.

The book builds on these, showing how ‘getting noticed’ can improve your business prospects and leadership skills, giving you the confidence to succeed in many other areas of your life.

To buy the book visit: www.wegetnoticed.com

2011 Open4Business festival wraps up

A two week celebration of local business wrapped up with a lunch at the Boat that Rocks, Portland, on Friday 14th October.

The event was hosted by Andy Cooke, President of the Weymouth & Portland Chamber of Commerce.

The guest list included Heavenly Bump Maternity wear who recently won the Business of the Year  Award  at the South & West Dorset Open4Business Awards.

Amy-Kate Crane, co-owner of Heavenly Bump said “It was a real surprise winning the top award. My partner Kirsty van Der Goss and I have worked very hard during the past year to grow our on line business, and since joining the Weymouth & Portland Chamber of Commerce and with the help and support of Business Link our business has gone from strength to strength.”

The Government is ending all the regional Business Link services from November 25. At the event Matthew Butcher from WSX Enterprise, the company which has delivered the Business Link service in Dorset, told Chamber members that WSX was determined to fill the gap that would be left.
He said: “The Business Link service in Dorset included advice sessions for company owners, business start-up courses and information seminars.

“We know there is real concern that small and growing firms in particular will now be left without any ready source of face-to face advice and support. 

“We need a radical model to ensure that low-cost, valuable and impartial back-up for company owners is still to hand, and at WSX Enterprise we are determined to provide that. We will have more news soon about the services we will be delivering.”

You could win your own business

Have you got what it takes to run and grow a business? Would you like the opportunity to find out, and earn an income at the same time?

Dorset entrepreneur, Stephanie Pettitt, is offering a prize worth £20,000, giving the winner a chance to build their own business.

Through a competition which blends elements of The Apprentice and Dragons’ Den, she’s looking to award someone with a franchise in her successful online accountancy business, Equation Accounting.

The winner will benefit from the systems and brand that Stephanie’s spent years building up, and she’ll provide the mentoring they require to get up and running.

“I left home at 16 and had a pretty tough time. I would like to help someone else by giving them an opportunity,” said Stephanie, explaining her reasons for giving away such a huge prize.

Applicants don’t need to have a finance background, as Stephanie will provide all the training they need. What she’s looking for is someone with the passion and flair to make the business succeed.

More information about the competition is available from the Equation Accounting website.

Applications must be made by November 4th, with judging taking place on November 16th, at Bournemouth University.

This is where applicants will have to pitch their plans before a panel of experts. The winner will have to convince the judges that they have the personality, skills, attitude and business acumen required. The prize will be their own business, which could generate an income for life.

If you’re interested in this opportunity, or know someone who might be, take action now. Winning this competition could be a life-changing experience.

Jurassic Safari goes off-road to success

As part of my BT Storyteller role, I’ll be following a number of Weymouth and Portland businesses through their London 2012 experience. They’ve agreed to share the expectations, achievements and frustrations that come with running a business in a major Olympic venue.

Born and bred in and around the Purbecks, Gary and Carol Fry are in love with the stunning Dorset countryside and coastline. They've converted this passion into a business which allows tourists to explore byways and viewpoints rarely visited by the public.

Powered by a six-seater Land Rover, the tours can range from two to seven hours in duration and cover different parts of the county. "The Purbecks are the most popular," said Gary, speaking of the tour which covers the seaside town of Swanage, sandy Studland Bay and the jagged ruins of Corfe Castle.

So far, in 2011, they've driven around 175 safaris, going off road and through rivers with passengers from babes to several in their 80s. About half are local people and the rest come from across the globe. "Germany, Spain, New Zealand, Indonesia, Russia, Greenland..." says Gary.

Uphill climb for a new business

The inspiration for Jurassic Safari lies 25 years in the past, when Gary's father spotted someone offering Land Rover tours on Exmoor. "We should do that in Dorset," he said.

Brought up on a farm, Gary was always very practical and for a decade he ran a fencing contract business. But in 2009, he was looking for a new direction and decided to turn his father's notion into reality.

It required considerable investment, both financially and in time. Buying and equipping the Land Rover was not cheap and it took months to work through all the practical and legal requirements.

When they finally opened for business, in April 2010, bookings were slow. Everyone who's established a start-up knows those first months can be frustratingly quiet. But Gary and Carol hung on and have been rewarded with a much busier 2011.

The Olympic effect on Jurassic Safari

As with many other local business owners, Gary and Carol are optimistic about the long term prospects for their business following the London 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games. Images of the Dorset countryside and the Jurassic Coast will be beamed around the world, generating demand to visit this incredible part of England.

Team USA has already enjoyed a recent tour, and their party included Heather Mitts, a US Olympic women's soccer champion. She describes the Dorset coast as "quaint, scenic and peaceful."

The challenge for Gary and Carol is to find ways to keep people interested in safaris during the autumn and winter months. The beauty of the secret places they visit doesn't disappear during these cooler seasons, it simply changes. They're looking forward to introducing more visitors to the hidden treasures to be found on Dorset's byways.

The 2011 Open4Business awards

The 2011 South & West Dorst Open4Business awards have been announced and presented.

The winners are:

Business of the Year: Heavenly Bump - On-line retailer of maternity wear (Sponsored by David Upshall Insurance Services)

Small Business award: Wessex Ecoheat Ltd, Bridport (sponsored by Hive Beach Café)

Learning in the Workplace: Swift Signs, Weymouth (sponsored by Weymouth College)

Business Engagement in the Community: Battens Solicitors, Weymouth (sponsored by Basepoint Business Centres)

New Business: Filberts Fine Foods (sponsored by Humphries Kirk Solicitors)

Export: SALT, Portland (sponsored by Old Mill Financial Planners)

Tourism & Hospitality: Weymouth Harbour Traders Association (sponsored by Resort 2012)

Technology & Innovation: SALT, Portland (sponsored by DJ Property)

Retailer & Customer Service Award: Heavenly Bump , Weymouth (sponsored by Lloyds TSB)

Entrepreneur: Freefly Multimedia (sponsored by Equation Accounting)

Flame Award (Outstanding Contribution to Business):
Female: Sue Moore, Principal Weymouth College  (by Pineapple Business Support)
Male: Roger Dalton, Weymouth Harbour Traders Association (sponsored by Sunflowers Floral Design)

Congratulations to all the winners and the finalists, both on their success in the awards and their contribution to the local economy.

Sole trader or limited company - how do you choose?

Whether you are a start up or an unincorporated enterprise reviewing its business structure, the question you may be asking is, “Should I set up a limited company or am I better off as a sole trader?”

Unfortunately, there are no easy answers – what is right for one business may not be right for another, but these are some of the factors you should consider when making the decision. And don’t be afraid to get professional advice, especially on the tax position of your business; your accountant or tax advisor should help you to make an informed decision.

1. Simplicity

Being a sole trader is by far the easiest form for a business. You must register as self-employed with HMRC, keep accounts of income and expenditure, and submit a self-assessment tax return every year. There are no registration fees and no requirements to be audited or to file accounts.
A limited company, on the other hand, must register with Companies House and file accounts annually. In addition, it must maintain statutory books and submit an annual return to Companies House.

2. Flexibility

It is easy to set up as a sole trader.  It is also very straightforward to cease trading.  All that is required is to notify HMRC of the change in your business, allowing you to stop easily if your circumstances change, without the hassle and cost of deregistering a limited company.

3. Privacy

A sole trader is not required to file accounts or register a business with Companies House, keeping your business affairs private. Even small companies must file their accounts and submit an annual return, making certain details public knowledge.

4. Risk

A sole trader’s private assets are at risk if the business fails. There is no legal separation between the business and its owner, making a sole trader personally liable for the business debts. A limited company, on the other hand, is a separate legal entity and the owner’s liability is capped. Their liability is limited to the value of their shares, or a fixed sum in the case of a company limited by guarantee.

However, incorporating does not always remove the risks associated with being a sole trader. Directors of small companies are frequently asked to give personal guarantees to secure business bank loans.

5. Succession

It may be preferable to incorporate if you want to sell the business or pass it on in the family. A limited company may be a more attractive proposition than an unincorporated business, making it easier to sell. A sale can be completed easily by the transfer of shares.

6. Tax advantages

As a sole trader, if your business makes a loss, this can be offset against other income; a company can only offset its losses against its own profits from other years.

However, there may be tax advantages in operating an owner-managed limited company. As a sole trader, all your profit is taxed as income on the individual. , Income can be withdrawn from a company in two ways: as a salary, subject to tax and national insurance or as a dividend. Dividends are paid out of profits after corporation tax has been paid, which is more tax efficient.

Dividend payments can only be made out of retained earnings, so if there is no profit, you cannot pay a dividend. The board of directors must approve each dividend and officially record it in the company’s minutes.

7. Credibility

Some people feel that a limited company structure gives more credibility with customers, suppliers and banks.

Snazzy Specs look good for the money

We like to support and encourage small businesses here on Bizoh. So when Snazzy Specs, a new online retailer of spectacles, offered us some glasses to review, we thought: "Why not?"

Andrew Knowles, freelance writer and founder of Bizoh, bought his first pair of reading glasses a year ago. He only uses them occasionally, but gets frustrated because he forgets to take them places. Having one or two spare pairs would be really useful.

That's where Snazzy Specs comes in handy. Each pair of men's reading glasses costs around £16 and, as a bonus, comes complete with a soft case, cleaning cloth and a neck cord.

Here's the verdict on four pairs - including feedback from Andrew's wife and teenage daughters.

Zebra: Animal print adds life to the most functional of items, and this pair of specs is no exception.

Verdict: 'Gok Wan' said the teenagers the moment this pair was slipped into place. Not that Andrew knew who this was.

Matisse: You don't want all your specs to look the same, do you? This unisex pair caught our eye because, well, it's not just Andrew who needs some spare glasses.

Verdict: Andrew's wife immediately staked her claim on these and the daughters confirmed that 'feminine' was the appropriate verb. This purple pair looked particularly good on the 15 year old, but she preferred to take the photos.

Fleet Street: Let's be honest: the name was part of the attraction here. But Andrew wanted to try a pair which was not completely framed.

Verdict: These created a funky, geeky look which could work well when Andrew's out and about talking to clients about social media.

Harvey: Thoughtful, serious glasses; black, with a touch of silver to show they mean business.

Verdict: Probably the best pair in the selection, well-balanced and supplying the mature, intelligent look that Andrew needs when he's writing. But do you agree?

Our overall impression is that Snazzy Specs provide great value for money. At £15.99 for most pairs, they're around a tenth of the price Andrew paid for his first pair of glasses.

He'll continue to prefer his original specs, because the frames are much thinner. But being reluctant to spend lots more on a back-up pair, he's pleased to discover that Snazzy Specs glasses provide an ideal solution.

Business support infographic

We recently posted an article about how useful infographics can be to businesses.

And now we've come across this one, prepared by Business Link, which helps firms to understand where to go for help.

Business owners and managers can benenfit from assistance at many points during the set-up and running of their commercial operation.

There are a whole host of bodies out there who can provide assistance, ranging from accountants to trade organisations.

This infographic is useful quick reference showing the places that you could go for help with various issues. You may find it useful to print it off and pin it to a noticeboard, where it could act as a handy quick reference and reminder.

Free Sustainable Business Exhibition in Bournemouth

This year’s Sustainable Business Exhibition, organised by Dorset-based businesses greenmessage and The Passionate PA, is being held on Thursday 10th November between 10am and 4pm at AFC Bournemouth.

“Our purpose is to bring together the region’s environment and sustainability professionals and give them a platform for demonstrating the changes that can be made to help improve a business’s ‘green credentials’.” Kate Chastey, Owner of The Passionate PA

The exhibition will provide visitors with the opportunity to meet with environment and sustainability professionals to discuss case studies and best practice as well as the options available to suit them and their business. Expert advice will be on hand to explain how energy and resource efficiencies can produce cost savings.

Entry to The Sustainable Business Exhibition is free and provides an excellent opportunity to engage with the leading sustainability experts in our region. There will also be a programme of highly informative workshops and talks throughout the day, run by chosen professionals on varied topics. More details of these will be published in due course.

“The response we’ve had so far has been amazing, this promises to be a great event for the local business community – whether you are already sold on the positives of a greener future, or just beginning to think about how your business could make changes, this event is for you.” Bryan Benjafield of greenmessage.

There are still exhibitor packages available - If you are interested please contact Kate on 01202 802 863 or email gogreen@thepassionatepa.co.uk

Power up your marketing with an infographic

Infographics are proving to be an incredibly powerful way of getting your message across.

The combination of information and images (hence the name) attracts attention in a way that a page of written text never will.

Our brains are wired to remember images more easily than words. Marketers have been using eye-catching, memorable pictures for decades. But they usually need some supporting text, or dialogue, to get the message across.

A good infographic can convey a lot of information in a way that's attractive and convincing. Many are designed to promote a particular message, such as the benefits of cloud computing.

Could your business benefit from creating an infographic? Share it on your website and blog and you may be surprised how many people share the link and come to visit.

Here are five infographics we've come across that we think you'll find interesting.

The first is the one about the benefits cloud of computing for SMEs (or SMBs as they're known in the US). It's a bit US-focused, but the basic messages also work for the UK.

The next infographic explores the extent to which UK SMEs are making use of social media to promote themselves. It's based on a survey carried out in April 2011.

Infographics can do more than present statistics in an interesting, visual way. They can also explain processes or information flows. This infographic from Touch Financial explains how invoice factoring works.

This next infographic is a visual representation of the performance of the UK's SMEs in Q2 of this year. It's a mix of hard statistics and business sentiment.

If you're looking to hire someone, don't be completely surprised if their CV comes in infographic form. Here's an example from student Jonathan Frost, which includes an infographic within an infographic. It caught the attention of The Guardian.

Dorset councils win awards for supporting small businesses

The Federation of Small Businesses (FSB) has just announced the winners of the Small Business Friendly Awards for the region.

These awards acknowlege the best small business friendly initiatives undertaken by local authorities in the area.

Every council in Dorset entered for the awards and the winners were:

Best All Round Small Business Friendliness - Christchurch Borough Council

Best 'Small Business Friendly' Procurement Policy - Bournemouth Borough Council

Best 'Small Business Friendly' Programme or Campaign - Bournemouth Borough Council

Bournemouth won recognition for provided free workshops to small and micro businesses, to help them apply for public sector contracts. The initiative reached around 600 SMEs.

The 'Bournemouth Face the Dragons' project, which helped to fund start ups, also played a large part in the awards.

Christchurch Borough Council was presented with its award for providing consistent support to businesses. Fast payment of invoices, which helps firms to manage their cash flow, is one of the core qualities that was recognised.

FSB Wessex Regional Chairman, Ken Moon, said: "These awards are an excellent way to say ‘thank you’ to council members and officers who rarely get recognised for the work they doThe FSB looks to the region’s local authorities to help create the environment for small businesses to survive and thrive and we have seen from the nominations that councils have adopted some of the good practise which received awards in 2010".

The Boat anchors on Weymouth beach

As part of my BT Storyteller role, I’m following a number of Weymouth and Portland businesses through their London 2012 experience. They’ve agreed to share the expectations, achievements and frustrations that come with running a business in a major Olympic venue.

Daren Deadman's family has been serving food and drink from huts on Weymouth beach for generations.

But this summer saw the realisation of a twenty-year old dream, to open a cafe and wine bar which brings continental sophistication to Dorset's silken sands.

The Boat, Daren's new establishment, sees the traditional rectangular hut replaced with the curves of an inverted ship's hull. It's as if a large sailing ship had beached, been abandoned, and a section of the hull turned over, converting the keel into the ridgeline of the roof.

That's exactly the effect that Daren, who runs The Boat with his wife Claire, sought to achieve. Daren conceived the design several years ago and in conjunction with an architect and boat builders, created the distinctive reality.

A new style of beachfront cafe

The Boat, which opened in July, stands on a decking platform which reaches out across the sand towards the sea. From here, diners and drinkers can feast on miles of views of the Jurassic coastline, while keeping a watchful eye on their children, playing on the beach.

While Daren and Claire have always run a beach catering business, The Boat is a big step up. Staff numbers have more than doubled, with around 14 full and part-timers. The old menu of takeaway food has been superseded by a broader selection of meals that can be eaten at the gleaming new tables.

It's also a licensed bar, selling wine and beer until 10pm. Long evenings see customers drinking in the scenery and emptying a few bottles, as the tide ebbs and flows.

Attention to detail is a hallmark

Good quality service is important to Daren and Claire. "We treat everyone the same," says Daren. "It doesn't matter if they're a day tripper or a resident." It’s apparent that cleanliness is important. Customer service extends to ensuring that every customer's dog is provided with its own drinking bowl.

Not surprisingly, this eye-catching venue has rapidly become popular with Olympic visitors. LOCOG representatives and members of visiting sailing teams have already eaten there. Local councillors like to use it as a showcase venue when entertaining.

Daren has lots of plans for The Boat. A winter menu, themed evenings, and an even higher quality of catering are just a few. Having been open only a few weeks, he's still getting used to how it works, and how popular it's already become. It will be interesting to come back in a few months and see how it's navigating the cooler days of autumn.

You can 'Like' The Boat on Facebook.

(Top photo: Claire and Daren Deadman)

Free business seminar: Social media, the web, the cloud and you

Your business can’t afford to get left behind by the 21st century communication revolution. Come along to this free seminar to discover what you may be missing out on and, more importantly, how to turn technology to your advantage.

Social media
Andrew Knowles, of Writecombination, will be sharing some of the experience he’s gained through building a copywriting business using social media. Discover what works and what doesn’t, and why business marketing is becoming more about winning advocates than writing advertisements.

The web
Paul Weeks, of Digibug, will talk about why effective websites are more than just a mix of graphics and text. He’ll share proven strategies for guiding customers to your website and, once they’ve arrived, how to steer them gently but firmly to the checkout.

The cloud
Stephanie Pettitt, of Equation Accounting, will tell you her secret for building a business that’s portable, scalable and successful – despite having almost no visible means of (IT) support. She’ll open your eyes to the possibilities and potential offered by today’s technology.

And you
Come along to have your eyes opened to new ways of running and promoting your business. It’s completely free and we’ll even supply cookies. Places are limited, so book now because we predict this event will be popular.

When: 10am to 12noon, Tuesday 4 October. There will be time for questions and networking.
Where: Weymouth Community Fire Safety Centre, Radipole Lane, DT4 0QF. Free parking available.
For more information visit the Open4Business website or contact @andrew_writer on Twitter.
To book email: events@digibug.co.uk

Business Connections networking event in Dorchester

Now that summer's behind us, the business events season is warming up nicely here in Dorset.

Here's another one for your calendar - a business to business exhibition and networking meeting on Friday 14 October at the Dorford Centre, Dorchester.

Inspired by the success of the Business 4 Business show in Weymouth earlier this year, Simon Marfell of Stag Office Products and Matthew Pye of Bartlepye have put together this new event.

They've also created Business Connections (Dorset) Ltd in order to run other events in the future. Their desire is to support local business, which they believe offers a cheaper and more customer focused solution than that available from national firms.

For more information about the exhibition in Dorchester visit the Dorset Connections website. You can also follow @BCDorset on Twitter.

Business Link events in Dorset - get them while you can

Whether you're an existing business owner or thinking of starting one up, you should take advantage of the Business Link events scheduled for this autumn in Dorset.

Many are free, requiring only some of your time and the costs of getting to and from the venue.

Events like these have helped thousands of business owners over the years. If you've never experienced one, give it a go before the Business Link cut backs take effect in November, reducing the service to a website.

You'll get more from these meeting than simply listening to presentations. They are great networking opportunities, allowing you to make valuable new contacts.

The Business Link Dorset events in September and October are:

15 September - Successful business leadership (Dorchester)
A free half day workshop including lunch. Book here.

20 September - Meet the entrepreneur (Bournemouth)
A free half day workshop aimed at ambitious new business owners. Find out more.

21 September - Value innovation - its logic (Weymouth)
An evening event including a ploughman's supper, for £15. Here students will meet business people in a creative and forward thinking environment. Book here.

22 September - Driving your business forward (Bournemouth)
A half day workshop costing £25. This will be all about growth, with a particular focus on overseas expansion. More information here.

11 October - Meet the buyer (Bournemouth)
An open day which includes a free lunch. If you would like to sell to local councils and want to know how, this is for you. Book here.

19 October - Innovative marketing strategies (Bournemouth)
A full day workshop costing £39. How to market your business on a limited budget. Information and booking here.

Portland accountant starts building his own business

Mark Franklin, a Chartered Certified Accountant, has taken the bold step of creating his own accountancy practice in Weymouth.

Mark, who’s lived on Portland all his life, is well known to many local businesses. He's working for a local accounting firm for over 12 years and over that time gained his professional qualifications, along with an extensive knowledge of accounts and tax.

One of Mark’s strengths is his ability to translate the sometimes obscure language of finance into something his clients can understand. As a result, they give him glowing testimonials.

Laura Dench, of H20 Hair Salon in Weymouth, says that Mark “takes the stress out of it all”.  Another hairdresser, Francesca Hegg of Steven May Hair Design, calls Mark: “A true professional and always with a smile.” She “would not hesitate in recommending him to anyone looking for an accountant.”

Moving from the security of a regular salary to the challenge of having to find your own work can be a daunting prospect, particularly in today’s challenging economy. Mark is confident that his professional skills, excellent reputation and local knowledge will allow him generate the income needed to support his family of four young children.

He says: “By taking the time to go through the figures in detail with my clients they are able to make sense of the accounts, see where they have done well and identify areas for improvement.”

Mark’s enthusiasm for his new venture is clear to anyone who meets him. You can experience this for yourself if you choose to take up his current offer of free consultations for local firms. Find out more about Franklin and Co by visiting his website.

The Bizoh blog loves to celebrate business success in Dorset. If your firm has a great story to tell, why not get in touch?

Popcorn even sweeter after five years

Popcorn Marketing, based in Weymouth, has just celebrated five years in business.

The occasion was marked with a reception for 35 guests at the Fossil Barn in Chickerell. The building, a holiday home designed by Popcorn, has recently been awarded a Visit England 4 Star Gold.

Founded by Julie Cleaver, Popcorn helps local organisations manage their brands. Clients include Weymouth College, Weymouth and Portland Chamber of Commerce, Vintage Dorset and the Tall Ship Pelican.

Julie Cleaver said: "Today is a celebration and thank you to all my loyal staff, business colleagues and of course my outstanding clients."

In addition to her work at Popcorn, Julie is also Managing Director of Open 4 Business (Dorset) CIC, a non-profit organisation that delivers a festival of business awards and events throughout the year.

Rush Electric Bikes, Weymouth - August 2011

As part of my BT Storyteller role, I’ll be following a number of Weymouth and Portland businesses through their London 2012 experience. They’ve agreed to share the expectations, achievements and frustrations that come with running a business in a major Olympic venue.

Rush Electric Bikes is a brand new business hiring out electric bicycles in Weymouth.

It began trading just days ago, when owner Kathy Stewart decided it was time to dip a toe into the market before a formal launch later in the year

Kathy, aided by her three daughters, Melissa (22), Felicity (20) and Amy-Angela (18), is currently based at The Palm House, a refurbished Edwardian glasshouse. It’s only a moment’s walk from the railway station and town centre hotels, an ideal location for people wanting to pick up and return their electric bikes.

(Photo: Melissa, Amy-Angela and Kathy Stewart).

With a background in hospitality and hotel project management in the UK and USA, Kathy is familiar with the tourism and leisure industries. But her decision to create a bicycle hire business, using start-of-the-art electrically powered models, is a new direction.

Making cycling easier for everyone

“I first saw electric bikes in Spain, three years ago,” said Kathy, “and I thought, ‘If only we’d had one when the children were younger.’” She immediately spotted the potential of a light-weight, fun form of transport that made recreational cycling more accessible.

The bikes can travel for over 50 miles before they need recharging, using a conventional power socket. The rider controls if and when the motor engages, allowing them to get the benefits of cycling without the worry of how they’ll climb the Dorset hills.

Electric bikes can be used by anyone over 14 and there’s no need for a licence.

The Olympic potential of electric bikes

Kathy chose to bring her new business to Weymouth because she felt it would appeal to visitors, and could receive an early boost from the 2012 Olympics.

Weymouth and Portland will be packed with visitors next summer. Tourists, sailing enthusiasts, athletes, officials, sponsors, local businesses and the media will be jostling for position on the area’s roads. Jumping onto a hired electric bike could allow people to cut their way through the traffic and arrive on time without getting hot and bothered.

It’s very early days for Kathy and her enthusiastic team of daughters, one of whom is training as a bicycle mechanic. Another will be handling the marketing side of the business, which will include a strong emphasis on social media.

Initial feedback from the first customers of Rush Electric Bikes has been extremely positive. The opening lines of the story of Kathy’s new business promise an exciting tale over the months ahead.

Update: you can now follow Rush Electric Bikes on Twitter @RushEbikes

New Weymouth restaurant makes business Sense

Weymouth restauranteurs, Ali and Ovidija Ghamarian, have taken the bold step of transfer-ring their successful restaurant and wine bar business into much larger premises.

The new Sense restaurant opens today in St Mary Street, an olive's throw from the town's bustling historic harbourside.

While the restaurant may only have crossed the road from its old home, it's grown massively. The original Sense, which opened four years ago, seated 36. From its small kitchen, Ali offered value for money European cuisine, and created an ambience that had local customers coming back for more.

Filling the tables with Dorset folk for night after night gave Ali and Ovidija the confidence to move to a bigger venue, which seats over one hundred diners.

"We had to turn people away," said Ali, talking about the old premises. "We had a lot of disappointed customers."

That disappointment should be a thing of the past. From today, Ali's customers will find it much easier to get a table at which to enjoy grilled succulent Ostrich steak, pan fried loin of venison or another choice from the menu, almost all of which is sourced locally.

Ali, who says he is happiest when in the kitchen, has been joined by a team of new chefs in order to cook for many more people.

The opening of the new Sense restaurant is also a success for other local businesses. Neighbours, Designa Kitchens, have created the stunning bar area which greets customers as they arrive. A host of other local contractors were also involved in the conversion of a tired building into a showpiece modern restaurant and wine bar.

If you enjoy high quality food that's prepared entirely on the premises, you really should pay a visit to Sense. But if you're planning to go in the evening, particularly at weekends, you should book ahead. While Ali and Ovidija have significantly increased the capacity of Sense, there's still a good chance it could be full.

(Photo: Ali and Ovidija Ghamarian).

Get free publicity from Open4Business

Is your Dorset business good enough to win an award and benefit from the free PR that comes with it?

Entries for the Open4business 2011 awards close in two weeks.

Open4Business supports and promotes businesses based in south and west Dorset. Every year they present a number of awards, recognising successful local firms for achievement in a number of categories.

Businesses who enter the awards receive publicity and recognition across the county, and it can help to position them as a leader in their sector. Winners enjoy the thrill of success and the award is a great PR opportunity.

Previous winners have commented on the value of the award to their business and some have gone on to become sponsors, such is the value they place on being involved.

Entries for the 2011 Open 4 Business awards must be in by 9am on Monday 12 September.

The awards are in the following categories:

Self-nominated:

• New business (trading less than 36 months)
• Tourism and hospitality
• Retailer and customer service
• Technology and innovation
• Small business (up to 5 employees)
• Learning in the workplace
• Entrepreneur award
• Business engagement in the community
• Export award

Chosen by the judges from the winners of the categories above:

• Business of the year

Nominated by others:

• Flame - female
• Flame - male

You can apply for an award here.

New Dorset business networking group launches

If you're a mid-level business professional, you're invited to the newly formed Dorset Professionals Group.

This new group is aimed at people from any sector who are not at the top of their firm. There are hundreds, if not thousands, of business professionals in Dorset who haven't reached, or chose not to reach, Director or Partner level in their organisation. This group is for them.

Organiser, Matt Haines, says the Dorset Professionals Group intends to meet quarterly in the Weymouth, Dorchester and Bridport area. They aim to create a relaxed, informal atmosphere where people can meet, chat, and also enjoy relevant and topical presentations.

This new networking group is supported by Old Mill, accountants and financial planners in Dorset, Devon and Somerset.

The first meeting of Dorset Professionals Group is on Tuesday 27 September at 6pm in The Victoria Hotel, Dorchester. Why not join them for a game of skittles and a curry buffet? If that, and the prospect of making new contacts, isn't enough to tempt you, there's also a champagne prize draw.

For more information follow @OMDorsetProfs on Twitter or contact Matt Haines on 01305 268168 or email matt.haines@oldmillgroup.co.uk.

The Channel Guesthouse, Weymouth - August 2011

As part of my BT Storyteller role, I’ll be following a number of Weymouth and Portland businesses through their London 2012 experience. They’ve agreed to share the expectations, achievements and frustrations that come with running a business in a major Olympic venue.

The Channel Guesthouse is a welcoming, 11 bedroomed, family run concern on Weymouth’s Georgian seafront.

The business is owned and run by the Reay family, who took over in January 2008. Chris (44) and his mother, Sandra, world-travellers for global companies, relished the challenge of working for themselves in the hospitality industry, despite having no experience other than as guests. Chris’ father, wife and son are also part of the team.

They chose Weymouth because they’d enjoyed years of family holidays on the golden sands, and because they felt the town retained something of its historic character, which other resorts had lost. That Weymouth was an Olympic venue did not influence their choice.

The Olympic impact on guesthouse business

The Grade II listed townhouse looks out across Weymouth Bay, making this one of the few businesses I’m following from which it will be possible to watch the London 2012 sailing as it happens.

When Chris and Sandra took over The Channel in 2008, not a single 2012 booking had been made. That has not changed, although members of several Olympic and Paralympic teams have stayed there. Sailors from Argentina, the USA and Germany have all been guests, along with officials and media staff from other nations.

“There have been some Olympic enquiries,” said Chris. But he expects the real benefits to come once the Games are over. Two weeks of global television coverage of the incredible Jurassic Coast could turn it into one of the world’s leading tourist destinations. That’s his hope.

The Olympic fortnight in 2012 shouldn’t make much immediate difference to guesthouse business. “We should be full in July and August anyway,” explained Chris, “because it’s our busy season.” There are no plans to slap an Olympic premium on their regular prices.

The real focus of The Channel is to be a green business

You don’t talk to Chris and Sandra for very long without uncovering their real passion – to run a green business sourcing good quality, local produce.

In May this year, they won a coveted Gold award from the Green Tourism Business Scheme. They are one of only three accommodation providers in Dorset to win recognition for all the hard work they’ve put into balancing environmental and commercial concerns.

While the only meal they serve is breakfast, it’s one they take very seriously. They’ve gone to huge efforts to source local produce while also addressing healthy eating concerns. Cooking oil has almost been completely eliminated and they are trialling imaginative alternatives to the traditional fry up.

I look forward to talking with Chris and Sandra in the months ahead to discover what difference the London 2012 Olympics and Paralympics are making to their personal and business lives in The Channel guesthouse.

Below: The Reays: Brian, Sandra, Chris, Sue and CJ.

Don't get bitten by the ASA's new teeth

Is the advertising of your services on your website legal, decent, honest and truthful?

Because if there’s room for doubt, and if one person complains to the Advertising Standards Authority (ASA), you could fall foul of their judgement.

From 1 March this year, the ASA’s remit was extended to include commercial websites on which businesses promote their products.

Earlier this week, Ecademy, a UK-based online community of business owners, was told by the ASA that the advertising for one of their offline social media courses had been misleading.

A dissatisfied Ecademy customer complained to the ASA as they felt the course had not covered all the areas listed in the advert. According to the judgement, published here, Ecademy disagreed, but were unable to provide any documentation to support their case.

Ecademy “considered there was no need to create handouts or other course materials”. As a result, they had no way to substantiate their claims that the course matched the original advert. The result was a judgement against them and an instruction not to use that advert again.

There are two questions that every UK business needs to ask itself. Do the services we deliver match the advertising on our own website? And if a customer complained, how would we defend ourselves?

It’s inevitable that some customers will complain. Some will press their cause by taking their grievances to external authorities, such as the ASA. That’s their right, and it’s yours, as a business, to argue your case.

Don’t think that just because your business is relatively small that it will escape attention. Ecademy is quite well known, but it’s far from a household name. It only took one disgruntled customer to bring their advert to the ASA’s attention.

The ASA is taking its responsibility to police website advertising seriously. On the same day that the complaint about Ecademy was upheld, a further eight websites were found to have breached the advertising code.  In five of these cases, it was just one person who complained.

The public already demands a close match between what your website promises and what you actually deliver. The real test of this is whether, having experienced your products, they come back for more.

But the ASA gives them another set of teeth to nip you with if they’re unhappy and you’re unable to support the accuracy of your advert.

Weymouth business hits London fashion catwalk

An innovative Weymouth-based printing service recently took part in a leading fashion show in central London.

Print Shop Express, a Dorset firm set up and run by James Collins, was selected as the official print partner for the glamorous, high society J Summer fashion show. His company provided all the printed material including posters, tickets, invitations and press passes for event.

As an official partner, James was given VIP tickets to the special “Red Carpet” event, held in the glittering surroundings of the newly restored Savoy Hotel. Here he networked with the fashion industry elite such as Paul Costello and Danny Tang, and representatives from household name fashion brands.

Print Shop Express is a bold new venture into the highly competitive printing sector. It specialises in low volume, high quality and high speed printing, supplying to customers across the UK. All orders are turned around within 24 hours.

Customers based in Dorset can benefit from a super express service. Orders placed by 3pm are delivered the following day.

James, aged 28, set up his first printing business in 2009 when, as a graphic designer, he realised that his customers were finding it hard to get a good quality, value for money service.

To meet their need he established Low Cost Quality Print. Despite this being a fiercely competitive sector, he’s seen turnover grow by 60% every year. Impressed by the combination of high quality product, service and realistic pricing, his customers keep coming back for more.

This repeat business, and word of mouth marketing, has allowed James to launch Print Shop Express, as a fast turnaround service within Low Cost Quality Print.

Continued growth means he’s moving to new, larger, premises later this year, allowing him to continue servicing his expanding customer base and permit further expansion.

James is a great example of someone who’s spotted and seized an opportunity and, through hard work and commitment to quality, made it a success.