The Business Exchange Swindon & Wiltshire Edition 36: April/May 2018 | Page 3

CONTENTS NOTE FROM THE EDITOR INSIDE THIS EDITION As we move into the second quarter of the year things are starting to heat up (hopefully quite literally too!). How did the first quarter go so fast? And, how can we act now to make a difference to our business growth and progression in quarter two? That’s what’s on our minds at TBE Towers and I’m sure this echos business sentiment across Swindon and Wiltshire. In this issue we talk to local experts on ‘how to become a networking pro’, turn to page 30 to read their top tips. Networking is an essential tool for business growth, so be sure to include it in your plan. The Business Exchange is all about connecting companies and individuals and creating growth for our region. In this issue there are many useful columns and articles to aid this. Find out about free business growth funding on page 6, how to protect your assets on page 14 and gain advice from John Davies on page 31 on how NOT to sell your wares. Our cover story is ‘The Techies are coming.’ This is to promote our technology awards scheme, turn to page 5 to find out more. If you know someone making a difference in the IT sector locally get them to enter and be recognised for their efforts. I can’t wait to announce the winners and celebrate with them at our awards ceremony on May 10 at Hartham Park. We have so much local talent it’s important that we embrace it, champion it and ensure the talent remains in Swindon and Wiltshire. And finally, in between our bi-monthly print editions, ensure you’re kept up to date with the latest local business news and information by visiting our website and following us on social media. We have quite a following, so if you’re trying to get a message out there please tweet us, call us or drop us a line to see how we can help. Editor: Anita Jaynes E: [email protected] T: 01793 847966 Special Features: Fiona Scott www.fionascottmediaconsultancy.co.uk Motoring: Geoff Maxted www.drivewrite.co.uk 4 BUSINESS NEWS A round-up of the latest business news 8 APPOINTED Recent appointments made in Swindon and Wiltshire 9 FINANCE Financial news and advice to help your business 10 LEGAL Expansion for Swindon’s Optimum 14 BUSINESS ADVICE How do you know if an employee is making a difference? 18 CREATIVE THINKING Steve Munson from Studio Creative talks investing in quality merchandise 20 TECHNOLOGY ojo talks GDPR for good 24 COMMERCIAL PROPERTY News from the commercial property sector 26 REVVED UP Geoff Maxted reviews the new Volvo V60 29 IN PROFILE Peter Boucher, Excalibur 30 HOW TO BECOME A NETWORKING PRO Networking tips from regional experts 34 CONNECT Networking events happening in Swindon & Wiltshire ADVERTISE WITH US RAISING YOUR PROFILE WITH THE BUSINESS EXCHANGE IN 2018 Are you planning your marketing strategy for the year ahead? If so, why not give us a call? We offer bespoke packages combining print, online and social media to ensure your message is heard. We are passionate about supporting local businesses and helping them grow. Being a local, independent publisher we pride ourselves on our reputation and building campaigns for clients that deliver results. That’s why so many of our advertisers renew their activity with us. Please get in touch to receive our media pack including our testimonials. Design: Juicy Designs www.juicy-designs.com Artwork: Studio Creative Services www.studio-cs.co.uk Print: Acorn Press www.acornpress.co.uk SEND US YOUR STORY To send in your business news email us at the following addresses: Swindon & Wiltshire [email protected] T: 01793 847966 Bath & Somerset [email protected] T: 01225 300043 SALES ENQUIRIES Sian Swift Business Development Manager THE BUSINESS EXCHANGE KEY STATISTICS - PRINT Readership: 15,000 Circulation: 5,000 E: [email protected] T: 07710 566 145 Follow us on Social Media @TBESW Facebook.com/tbeswindonandwilts “The Business Exchange Swindon & Wiltshire” THE BUSINESS EXCHANGE 2018 3