< Previous30 Business Link www.blmforum.net SUPPLY CHAIN MANAGEMENT explore the unique benefits and challenges of Lincolnshire as a supply chain hub, and how these can be exploited and counteracted. Supply chains range from raw materials to finished products. Each supply chain is often part of a larger supply chain. All of this is important because ultimately, retail is reliant on providing a satisfying customer experience which builds loyalty, keeping companies in business. Online shopping habits have increased over the last decade, partially due to a reduction (and closure) of high street options. This rapid scaling of business has pushed current risk management processes to the limit for small businesses. Large conglomerates such as Amazon have implemented automation and AI technology to predict customer demand and free warehouse staff from menial tasks. For example, installing the ability to auto-fill certain documents such as delivery order, dock receipt, bill of lading. Warehouse employees would traditionally fill these out with pen and paper, thus wasting time and often leading to human error when recording and submitting information. The benefits of automation are obvious, both inside the warehouse and outside – better efficiency, increased throughput time, reduced labour and operational costs and better inventory management. Given the recent overseas supply difficulties, from Brexit to geopolitical concerns with the Red Sea, it is important to ensure your supply chain is as efficient as possible within the supply chain ecosystem. This is where a low- code automation system could be useful. A low-code automation system can connect all systems and create a centralized platform to view the complete process and determine areas of low productivity. These systems work in real-time to provide the latest status updates, so decisions can be made ad- hoc with as much knowledge as possible, giving flexibility within your supply chain. These systems are easy to install, and © stock.adobe.com/zapp2photowww.blmforum.net Business Link 31 SUPPLY CHAIN MANAGEMENT their low-code nature means that they are a relatively cheap solution. Despite consumer calls for ever shorter delivery times, sustainability has become a core focus for supply chain management in the UK in recent years. Increasing awareness of environmental and social impacts has prompted adoption of greener practices throughout supply chains. Companies are actively seeking ways to reduce their carbon footprint by optimizing transportation routes, adopting alternative energy sources, and implementing circular economy principles. In line with the UK government’s commitment to net-zero emissions by 2050, several supply chain initiatives have been launched to promote sustainability. These include collaborations with green logistics providers, investments in electric vehicle fleets, and the use of sustainable packaging materials. AI technology is being employed to optimise delivery routes and learn how and where vehicles burn the most fuel. This is also seen as an exercise in operational efficiency, creating an additional benefit for the investment in automation technology. Additionally, initiatives have been taken to reduce single-use plastics, leading to positive impacts on the environment and consumer perceptions of brands. By embracing the principles of a circular economy, using recycled materials, and designing products for longevity and recyclability, logistics businesses can decrease their reliance on finite resources and contribute to waste reduction. Conserving resources is inherently cost saving, and companies are starting to understand the dual benefit in sustainability programs. There is an increasing focus towards the responsible sourcing of raw materials. This involves partnering with suppliers who adhere to fair-trade practices. Ensuring fair wages, safe working conditions, and adherence to labour rights not only promotes social sustainability but also fosters positive long-term supplier relationships. © stock.adobe.com/jdarius32 Business Link www.blmforum.net ACCOUNTANTS REVIEW Picking the right accountant or accountancy firm for your business can be a tricky challenge. It may feel like everyone is a financial expert online nowadays, and there are plenty of dodgy actors on the market just looking to take advantage of people. The introduction of AI and ChatGPT has only made this worse, as even some actual lawyers have been caught out trying to use AI-generated briefs in the courtroom that were found to be entirely inaccurate. One of the biggest things to look for in an accountant – beyond the obvious of certification and qualifications – is whether an accountant has had relevant expertise in your industry before. Finance may be finance, but no two industry sectors are the same, and accountants with expertise in manufacturing or agri industries may well be able to direct a customer toward available grants, savings, and benefits that an Sourcing Sourcingwww.blmforum.net Business Link 33 ACCOUNTANTS REVIEW © stock.adobe.com/ijeab accountant unused to the industry might not know of. Ideally, your accountant should work in your best interests, and that means being more than a simple bookkeeping service. They should be capable of spotting things others may have missed, highlighting problems and alerting someone within your company to address the issue. Accountancy practices merge in welcome boost to Wakefield and surrounding area Streets Chartered Accountants has announced the establishment of Streets Andrew Wright Chartered Accountants. The announcement follows the merger of the Wakefield practice, Andrew Wright & Co with the fast-growing multi regional practice, Streets Chartered Accountants. When asked about the merger, Sally Wright, Managing Director, said: “Fellow Director Richard Farndale and I are delighted and excited about the merger. Our practice was founded in 1975 by my father Andrew Wright and over the years the practice has grown based on our reputation and the demands of clients in and around Wakefield. “As with any business we cannot stand still and to overcome the challenges we and our clients face we need to develop our business. We looked for some time to find a perfect partner to support us and one with which we mutually share the same values and we believe we have found that in Streets. Certainly, there is a great match, both in terms of client focus and cultural fit. “Now that Andrew Wright & Co is part of a larger practice, we can confidently promise greater continuity of service to our clients and improved career prospects for our team.” James Pinchbeck, Marketing Partner, Paul Tutin, Managing Partner, Richard Farndale, Director, and Sally Wright, Managing Director 34 Á34 Business Link www.blmforum.net ACCOUNTANTS REVIEW Many of the best accountants look to work with companies who are continuously expanding as well, which means they’ll often have departments offering best advice and framework for securing additional capital and may even be in touch with investors. You want to find an accountant who is proactive about saving and making money, and who isn’t going to be stuck and buried doing hundreds of tax returns a year when they could be helping you. With that in mind, it’s always worth interviewing different accountancy firms. It may seem strange, and some might call it a waste, but you would want to interview an accountant you were hiring to work for your firm, so why would you not want to speak to a new supplier who might cost you even more? A good accountancy firm will be happy to speak with you and discuss what they’ve done for other people, and they will be eager to boast and show evidence of satisfied clients. Look deeper than simple testimonial and see if they can provide case studies of instances where they went out their way to save a customer money. Meet the person who would become your personal agent within the company as well, if they’re available, and talk with them. Having a strong channel of communication is integral in terms of continued Givingyourbusinessahelping hand Tofindouthowwecanhelpbuildyourbusinessvisit www.dextersharpe.co.uk Officesin Boston,Bourne,Horncastle, Lincoln,Louth&Skegness CHARTEREDCERTIFIED ACCOUNTANTS Accounts-TaxReturns TaxPlanning-Book-Keeping Audits-BusinessAdvice © stock.adobe.com/Liubomirwww.blmforum.net Business Link 35 ACCOUNTANTS REVIEW cooperation, and you should make sure that the individual knows exactly what you expect of them. When it comes to searching however, one of the best things you can do is get in touch with other businesses through social media or networking events and pick their brains. Ask them who they use, how they are, and get a candid response over a glass of wine or can of beer. When people are away from the office and the legal need to be fair and even in all recommendation, they can afford to be more honest and tell you, in no uncertain terms, whether a company is worth talking to or not. The Rise of Artificial Intelligence in Business Operations Artificial Intelligence (AI) is revolutionizing business operations, offering new efficiencies, capabilities, and opportunities. In the accounting and bookkeeping sector, AI is transforming traditional processes, making them more efficient and accurate. AI tools in accounting are automating repetitive tasks such as data entry, invoice processing, and financial reporting. This automation not only reduces the potential for human error but also allows accounting professionals to focus on more strategic activities, such as financial analysis and planning. Additionally, AI is being used to identify anomalies and detect fraud, adding a layer of security to financial operations. Our firm supports our clients in integrating AI technologies into their accounting and other systems, assisting in implementing AI solutions that enhance accuracy and efficiency, enabling them to better manage their finances and make data- driven decisions. These tools provide faster processing times and more precise financial data, which are critical for effective business management. Beyond accounting, AI is also transforming customer service and data analytics. AI-driven chatbots offer 24/7 customer support, and advanced data analysis helps businesses understand market trends and improve decision-making. However, as AI becomes more integrated into business operations, it is essential to address challenges such as data privacy and ethical considerations. Establishing robust data governance frameworks is crucial to ensure transparency and maintain trust with stakeholders. As AI continues to advance, its impact on business operations will grow. Companies that adopt these technologies can enhance their efficiency and competitiveness in an increasingly digital world. To find out more, visit www.aprobinson.biz, email andrew.robinson@aprobinson.biz, or call 01472 345888. You want to find an accountant who is proactive about saving and making money, and who isn’t going to be stuck and buried doing hundreds of tax returns a year when they could be helping you36 Business Link www.blmforum.net CORPORATE HOSPITALITY C onferences are a great way to draw attention to a company, and such events have been held for many years by business owners and managers, particularly by businesses with high levels of expert knowledge – such as legal or financial practitioners. The general principle is that by holding an event or seminar, the host can impart their knowledge and expertise to an audience of prospective customers. This not only gives the speaker a chance to impress the audience, but also draw attention to further savings the host’s company can help the client achieve - thus securing customers. With a huge number of beautiful and specialised conferencing venues across our region, it should come as little surprise that the conferencing industry is a booming one – and yet, there are still many companies who have never considered the benefits for themselves. For many, this is not an issue of oversight or being unaware of the benefits, but more an issue of confidence – or the reluctance to publicly speak in front of a large audience. This is neither something to be ashamed of, nor something to hold a company back, however. Very few people are born with the confidence necessary to stand up and orate – and in many cases this is a skill learned through trial and error, or practice. Here, however, are some of the key things that really help a speech stand out. Memorise it by heart There’s no denying that cue-cards and scripts are valuable for those unfamiliar with public speaking and should be used to help jog the memory. Ultimately there’s nothing worse than seeing a speaker fumbling over what they are saying or forgetting entirely. Confidence is always going to be a major factor in what sells a company, and a speaker should exude confidence – even if they don’t feel it. Learning the entire speech off-by-heart, and practicing it in the mirror or to family, will help a speaker feel more confident in what they are saying. It can also help the speech become little more than routine, so that even on a stage a speaker is able to switch off and imagine they are simply talking to the mirror. Test the room There’s nothing worse than going to an event and realising that you’ve been unfortunately placed and can’t actually hear a word of what the main speaker is saying. Most conferencing venues will have good acoustics, but that doesn’t excuse speakers failing to project their voices properly. Remember that even if answering a question from the audience, or speaking in general, it is best to project your voice towards the centre of the room rather than turn to answer a person in a far corner. Beyond that though, it’s often useful to visit the venue in advance and have a colleague stand at the back of the room, so you’re able to see how loud you must be to be heard. Don’t rely on technology or AI It can be easy to look at all the latest technology available, and while it can be tempting to rely on power point presentations or videos to handle some of the work – it’s not always the best idea. Ultimately it is people which sell products or services, and the ultimate goal of a conference or seminar is to get more customers. The audience wishes to know that the individual, the very person whose services they might be paying for, is a skilled and Performing for business The summer months make for an ideal time to host seminars and events, but after years of working remotely or from home many people are out of practice when it comes to public speaking. We run over some of the basics. www.blmforum.net Business Link 37 CORPORATE HOSPITALITY knowledgeable expert that they can rely on. Relying too heavily on technology also opens one up to problems when things go wrong – as they inevitably might. Seeing people fiddling around with projectors or laptops does little to inspire confidence. Another thing to keep in mind however will be the microphone you might be expected to use when speaking. It’s not unusual for people unused to using them to hold them close to their mouths to try and increase the volume, but this will make your plosives – the shape your mouth makes for various sounds like `p` and `b` - become distorted or pop. Make sure to perform a quick sound check before the event, to figure out how far you need to keep the microphone from your mouth. Take it slow and steady Most people aren’t aware of just how quickly they speak in casual conversation. It is easier to keep up with someone when they are talking about something that happened in their day but orating on complicated business matters might require more concentration from the audience. One way around this can be to record yourself speaking, and then play it back. Try to moderate how fast you speak, and see what cadence is easier to understand. Stick to what you know Ultimately the entire speech should be on a topic you are familiar with, to attempt otherwise will invite disaster if the audience asks any difficult questions. Keep in mind that the goal for the event is to get more customers for your services, and yours alone. If you keep on track with what you know, and what advice you would give to a client across the table – then the seminar will be stronger, and you’re much more likely to get good results. Beyond that, you will sound much more confident and are more likely to enjoy the event, experience good results – and want to come back and do it again next time. © stock.adobe.com/Svitlana38 Business Link www.blmforum.net AUTOLINK Some vehicles are made to fit the everyman, while other are designed for a specific demographic – and both philosophies have their merits. designs Uniquewww.blmforum.net Business Link 39 AUTOLINK Dacia Spring The All-New Spring, Dacia’s first all-electric model, is widely credited for making electric mobility accessible to all. First launched in Europe in 2021, it was the third most sold electric car to retail customers in 2022 and 2023. In total, more than 140,000 Dacia Spring have been registered worldwide since its launch. Now available in the UK, for the first time, the All-New Dacia Spring is the perfect solution for people looking for simple, affordable and efficient mobility. Dacia continues its mission to be the best value for money car brand that constantly redefines the essentials. Applying this to All-New Dacia Spring, Dacia wants to encourage drivers to make the shift to all-electric cars in an accessible way. A car’s design – along with efficiency, price and practicality – is one of the essential pieces in the puzzle. The dashboard has been totally reinvented, both to incorporate elements from Dacia’s new interior design language, with its emblematic horizontal architecture, and to also integrate a new range of digital screens. Spring now features a customisable digital dashboard with a 7-inch display on all versions as well as a 10-inch multimedia central display on Extreme trim models. The colour palette and materials used for the interior have been reworked to offer superior quality, while reducing the diversity of options to better manage costs – key to the Dacia philosophy. Dacia SpringNext >