< Previous40 Business Link www.blmforum.net AUTOLINK Volkswagen Passat More than 34 million Volkswagen Passats have been sold worldwide since the covers came off the first generation in 1973, and the ninth-generation model is set to continue this success. The new Passat is the most aerodynamic Volkswagen estate the company has produced so far. Its coefficient of drag (Cd) is just 0.25 – lower than many sports cars – making this a particularly economical and cost-effective choice for anyone looking for a modern estate car. Enhancements to the interior for this ninth-generation Passat are nothing less than expected for such a historically successful model. A completely redesigned digital cockpit incorporates the latest-generation (MIB4) infotainment matrix. Many system settings can be controlled using the new IDA voice control, and the large display in front of the driver has a new surface coating to reduce reflections and glare, removing the need for an overhang for providing shade. Kona Electric N Line Hyundai Motor Europe makes its best- selling electric vehicle appear even sportier. It will be the first Hyundai EV to receive the sporty N Line treatment, further expanding the brand’s customer- centric approach to delivering a wide range of options for drivers wanting to make the switch to all-electric mobility. The Kona Electric N Line showcases a sporty and dynamic design, maintaining the car’s impressive performance and range. Customers who appreciate both style and sustainability – as well as the best-in-class interior space offered by the upscaled all-new Kona – can now further individualise Hyundai’s top-selling SUV. Key features of the Kona Electric N Line include unique bumpers on both the front and rear, stylish side skirts, and a set of dedicated 19-inch wheels, designed to emphasise the sporty appearance of the model. The exterior is further adorned with exclusive N Line badging, underscoring the model’s bold look. Inside the cabin, the Kona Electric N Line boasts sport seats with N Line logo and red contrast stitching, creating an immersive and dynamic driving environment. Additional red details on the steering wheel and dashboard contribute to the N Line’s unique interior aesthetics. The focus is on providing a captivating driving experience without compromising on comfort and functionality. Mazda2 Hybrid Arriving in the UK from March, the 2024 Mazda2 Hybrid has a more differentiated design appearance thanks to a new, and unique to Mazda, front bumper and grille design. Designed at Mazda’s European Design Studio in Germany, the revised bumper shape combined with unique rear tailgate garnish gives the 2024 Mazda2 Hybrid a fresh and independent look. With a combined power output of 116ps driven via a CVT automatic transmission, the 2024 Mazda2 Hybrid will accelerate from 0-62mph in 9.7 seconds and returns a Volkswagen Passatwww.blmforum.net Business Link 41 AUTOLINK Unit 3, Woodside Park, Station Road, Tetney, Grimsby. DN36 5HX Find An Experienced Motor Mechanic In Tetney, Near Grimsby n Servicing n MOTs n Repairs n Brakes & Tyres n Engine diagnostics n Car Batteries n Exhausts n ECU Remapping n Air Conditioning Testing/repairs/Re Gas VW, AUDI, SEAT & SKODA SPECIALIST Tel: 01472 812130 | www.lincsvwa.com WLTP combined cycle fuel economy of between 67.3 to 74.3mpg and CO2 emissions of just 87-98g/km depending on the specification of 16” or 15” wheels. At start-up the 2024 Mazda2 Hybrid automatically runs in EV mode, offering smooth, seamless and quiet running on electric motor power in urban environments, with zero CO2, NOx and particulate emissions. During normal driving, power allocation is adjusted between the petrol engine and electric motor for optimum performance and the best possible fuel efficiency. During deceleration and under braking, kinetic energy is recovered as electrical energy for storage in the high-performance battery. Kona Electric N Line Mazda2 Hybrid42 Business Link www.blmforum.net events Payroll, HR and Employment Update 2024 Thursday 8 February Online Whether you have just one employee or a large workforce, you do payroll in house or use a payroll bureau, have a HR team or not, Streets Chartered Accountants’ annual update aims to keep you informed of the issues, regulations and changes affecting payroll management, HR and compliance. Streets will also look at the broader HR matters that may concern employers now and in the year ahead, along with the potential impact of changes to and the introduction of new employment legislation. For more information visit www.streetsweb.co.uk/about/events/payroll- hr-and-employment-update-2024/ Netwalking at Rudding Park Hotel Tuesday 13 February Rudding Park Hotel, Harrogate Meet at Rudding Park Estate for some walking and connecting all in one morning. MD Matthew Mackaness is going to guide the group around the grounds and gardens including their Kitchen Garden with information on the history and fascinating heritage before ending the trail with some well earned refreshments. A great opportunity to network and make some connections with other business professionals in the region. For more information visit www.eventbrite.co.uk/e /netwalking-at-rudding-park-hotel-tickets- 777722668437?aff=ebdsoporgprofile Lincolnshire Construction and Property Network Tuesday 20 February Mosaic, Lincoln From sole traders to large housing associations, construction and property firms come together to talk business at the Lincolnshire Chamber’s Construction Network. Meet up to 60 construction-related businesses in one room. As the saying goes, ‘Time is Money’. Attending the Construction Network for two hours every month is one of the most productive ways that you can keep up to date with project news and new business and tendering opportunities amongst contractors and suppliers. For more information visit www.lincs-chamber.co.uk/ events/lincolnshire- construction-and-property-network-february/ Managing and Improving your Energy Use Wednesday 21 February Online Are you a small-medium business owner in Greater Lincolnshire & Rutland Manufacturing Conference 2024 Friday 8 March The Lawn, Lincoln Join a day of insightful discussions and workshops tailored for manufacturing businesses in Greater Lincolnshire and Rutland at this manufacturing conference. Hosted in the picturesque setting of The Lawn area in Lincoln, the event promises a dynamic exploration of manufacturing trends and opportunities. For more information visit https://www.businesslincolnshire.com/events/event- details/?id=4419&navigatedFromSearch=true Lincolnshire or Rutland who wants to save money and reduce your environmental impact by managing your energy use more efficiently? If so, join this free one-hour webinar. In this webinar, you will learn: how to measure and track your energy performance; how to identify and prioritise energy-saving opportunities; how to conduct on-site energy audits. Don’t miss this opportunity to gain valuable insights and skills that can help you improve your bottom line and your green credentials. For more information visit www.businesslincolnshire.com/events/ event-details/?id=4352&navigated FromSearch=true © stock.adobe.com/putilov_denis © stock.adobe.com/Pixel_Bwww.blmforum.net Business Link 43 Directors Dinner: In Conversation about Artificial Intelligence Wednesday 21 February Owston Hall Hotel, Doncaster Doncaster Chamber’s Director’s Dinners are a chance for you to join high-level discussions about some of the most important and pressing issues in the business community today. From the potential uses of Artificial Intelligence right through to the perennial importance of innovation, what it means to provide good customer service and more; these conversations get right to the heart of challenging issues and thought-provoking topics. Each of them will be facilitated by Chief Exec, Dan Fell, and will also feature the insights of two expert guests in the relevant field. For more information visit https://business.doncaster- chamber.co.uk/events/details/directors-dinner-in-conversation- about-artifical-intelligence-ai-6712 Local Skills Improvement Plan Quarterly Workshop Wednesday 28 February Southview Park Hotel, Skegness Get more involved with the Local Skills Improvement Plan for Greater Lincolnshire & Rutland. Come along for updates on progress and priorities, contribute to vital skills discussions and help influence the next steps for local skills development. For more information visit www.businesslincolnshire.com/events/event- details/?id=4442&navigatedFromSearch=true Leadership in the Age of AI Friday 9 February Louis Pearlman Centre, Kingston upon Hull As an Executive, SME, Entrepreneur, or Solopreneur you may not have a generative AI plan yet, but that does not mean you cannot start integrating AI in your own business or in your own personal life at an affordable cost. This three-hour workshop will teach you about the current generative AI landscape, the capabilities of the leading generative AI players, and areas where generative AI can accelerate efficiencies. This will help you reclaim more time—time that you can invest in innovative thinking, strategic planning, and personal growth, ensuring you stay ahead in your intrapreneurial and entrepreneurial journey. For more information visit https://heygrowthhub.com/event/leadership-in- the-age-of-ai-building-smart-with-generative-ai/ © stock.adobe.com/ Murrstock South Yorkshire Skills Expo Friday 22 March MAGNA Conference Centre, Rotherham Attendees at the South Yorkshire Skills Expo will have time to hear from local skills providers, Chambers of Commerce and policy makers and, of course, an opportunity to meet directly with local skills providers to find out how they can support your business. It is also an opportunity to network with other businesses from across the region. Key activities on the day will include a range of presentations and discussions on a number of subjects including digital skills, green skills, and more. For more information visit www.scci.org.uk/events/south- yorkshire-skills-expo-connecting-people-skills-and-business-220324/ FEATURES Petrochemical Spotlight Freight, Storage & Movement Materials & Components Finance Legal Services Hull and Humber Bank REGULARS Commercial Property Motoring Corporate Hospitality Watch out too for the latest news from across the region in every sector Next month in March 2024 - Deadline 21st February Visit us at www.blmforum.net where you’ll find the latest news as it breaks – and why not subscribe to our newsletters so you can have the latest news emailed to your inbox, in between printed issues?MARKETING OPPORTUNITY Business Link Magazine Group is currently seeking a focused driven and enthusiastic individual to join our busy team. This exciting role involves networking with a wide variety of diverse businesses, developing relationships and ensuring the highest possible level of advertisements are generated. You will explore new business opportunities and contact existing clients to promote the company’s portfolio of services. Duties will include: l Acquiring and developing a portfolio of local key accounts l Growing business from existing and new clients l Developing a high level of knowledge of your territory As an account executive you should also have the ability to work to deadline and have good IT skills and proven negotiation skills. In return for your commitment we offer a competitive salary and great career prospects. Please contact Angie Cooper on 01472 310310 WWW.BLMFORUM.NET/CAREERS y 2024 januar yorkshire & lincolnsh £3.50 hire’s leading business ma agazine VOLUME39ISSUE1 .blmgroup.co.ukwww Stem een wavegr sNavigating the UK’ Looking ahead essm the str V w INTERN NATION AL Micrrobiolog testing gyy and spotlight Constan iti Constant ackPaaaging t t ackPaaaging xpord exrtt spotlight innovati i on Imporrtt and T FEBRUA£2.95 ARY2024 Fashion Fantastic D Valentin Foundat British He ’ ti t BLM GROUP www.blmgroup.co.uk Gainsbo Glorious D h WWWLINCWWW.LINC OLNSHIRETOOLNSHIRETO ODAYNETODAY.NET Business Link 45 www.blmforum.net LABELS • Plain / Printed Labels • Lasersheets • Fanfolded Labels • Thermal Transfer Ribbons • Barcode Labels RECRUITMENT WEDDINGSTO LET To receive a copy of the county’s most prestigious, full colour Wedding Guide, send a S.A.E. to: Lincolnshire Today Wedding Guide, Armstrong House, Armstrong Street, Grimsby, North East Lincs DN31 2QE Alternatively visit www.lincolnshiretoday.net/weddings where you can view the whole guide online If you are getting married then this guide is your must have accessory. It’s full of advice, hints and tips from the county’s top wedding specialists and will provide you with inspiration for your big day. fortheBid The essentialgu d Gr f LINC. WWW otb COLNSHIRETODAY WEDDINGS/ NET.Y S Planning for your special day? Ground floor offices to let - prime location in Grimsby • Superb Location - Close to the ports of Grimsby & Immingham - Great motorway links - Close to the town centre • Secure off street parking • High speed internet availability • A range of affordable office sizes Armstrong House, Armstrong Street, Grimsby DN31 2QE Tel: (01472) 310301 Email: s.fisher@blmgroup.co.uk Helping hospitality “SURVIVE & THRIVE” We are a hospitality consultancy which specialises in working with independent hotels bars restaurants throughout the Greater Lincolnshire, Humber, Midlands and Yorkshire regions. T: 07366 171719 E: craig@chhospitality.co.uk W: https://chhospitality.co.uk HOSPITALITYAnd finally The world of Frazer Office avoiders For many businesses it can be a struggle to get hybrid employees into the office, with the most obvious reasons behind this ranging from not wanting to waste time on the commute, to the cost of travel and poor standard of the workplace. But as one tries to tackle these issues, new research shows it’s time to look in the mirror! A new survey of 1,262 UK workers indicates that a significant number of employees are avoiding the workplace simply because their manager is there. Indeed 30% say they would head into their workplace more if their boss wasn’t present. So, investing in fancy, bright, plant- filled, flexible offices in easily accessible locations is all well and good, but if you are a boss who is disliked, it may well make no difference to hybrid staff popping in. The first port of call may instead be mending relationships. 46 Business Link www.blmforum.net New year, new tech The beginning of a new year always brings great excitement for Frazer. Not only is it a fresh start, but CES takes place every January — chocked full of weird and wonderful businesses and gadgets. Frazer has taken on the testing task of exploring the convention, so you don’t have to! Amongst the bizarre items this year was your new assistant, Samsung’s revitalised Ballie, a bowling ball-sized companion that can project movies and video calls onto walls, talk to smart appliances, keep an eye on pets and more. Meanwhile, to help you speed up your commute, Skwheels were on show, a pair of motorised ski shoes that race into the office at 50mph (what could go wrong?). Finally, Capsix Robotics’ AI masseuse was on display — a massage bed featuring a robotic arm to help you relax after a long day, just what Frazer needs! © stock.adobe.com/ Amolyus © stock.adobe.com/ fizkes © stock.adobe.com/ ChayTee Humourbragging your way to a new job Now we are settling into a new year, many will be on the hunt for a new job, sending out myriad CVs and taking part in a plethora of interviews. But how does one stand out amongst other candidates? Well, new research that has come across Frazer’s desk may be able to help! According to Imperial College Business School, ’humourbragging’ could be the route to acing your application or interview. Allowing you to promote your achievements and strengths with humour or wit, without appearing arrogant, researchers tested the technique in multiple studies. In one, interest in an applicant was significantly raised with the use of humourbragging in the intro section of their resume, including the line: “I have a proven track record of turning caffeine input into productivity output. The more coffee you can provide, the more output I will produce.” While this is just one example, all studies saw consistent support for the positive consequences of humourbragging. TEL: 07496 315038 | FUNDING@HEYLEP.COM | WWW.HEYLEP.COM *Grants of between £5,000 and £250,000 and/or loans of between £75,000 and £250,000 ARE YOU… AN SME WHO IS LOOKING TO GROW THEIR BUSINESS? BASED IN HULL OR EAST RIDING OF YORKSHIRE? LOOKING FOR CAPITAL INVESTMENT? 3 3 3 GRANTS & LOANS AVAILABLE* Printing|Copying|Graphic Design LOGOS | BRANDING | BUSINESS STATIONERY FLYERS & POSTERS | BROCHURES | NEWSLETTERS A0 COPYING & SCANNING | OS MAPPING CAD & PLAN PRINTING | PRINT FINISHING High Quality Print & Design in Lincolnshire N 01522 546118 E sales@lincolncopycentre.co.uk www.lincolncopycentre.co.uk25 Years of Successful Network Exhibitions - Business opportunities for PROPERTY, CONSTRUCTION, INVESTMENT, FINANCE, SERVICE PROVIDERS, B2B 20th March 2024 The Bentley Hotel, South Hykeham 9am - 2pm PROPERTY & BUSINESS INVESTMENT SHOW. ® LINCOLNSHIRE For further information visit businessshowsgroup.co.ukNext >