Email News October 2007
Foreword
Welcome to the October issue of email. In this issue we report on some interesting planning issues that have arisen in the past few weeks. These include a step forward with the development of the South East Plan, the regional spatial strategy for our region. Also the Isle of Wight Council has been conducting a Feasibility Study into the establishment of the Solent Ocean Energy Centre - an evaluation and research centre for marine energy technologies on the Isle of Wight. Read on for more details.....
Posted 2007-09-30 11:22:56
Planning & Development
Marine South East receives praise for Regional backing of waterfront strategy
An inspectors' report on the South East Plan has recently been published and makes specific reference to Marine South East’s work on representing the marine industry in the development of waterfront sites. The report stated:
"We were made aware by Marine South East of the particular threats from higher value uses, often mixed uses, to marine industries on waterfront sites"
The report went on to look at how the waterfront strategy will help safeguard the use of appropriate sites for marine companies.
"There is a wider issue in relation to industries within the supply chain for ports and marinas. We heard that the outcome of the current pilot waterfront strategy commissioned by SEEDA along the South Coast centred on the Solent will be to identify key sites for the marine sector. We recommend that the need for such sites to be safeguarded in LDDs (Local Development Documents) should be added to Policy (in the regional spatial strategy) rather than any particular sub regional strategy.
This is because the pilot strategy will affect both South Hampshire and the Sussex Coast, but once future strategies have extended right around the coast including the Thames Estuary, the outcome would be of relevance to local authorities in Kent Thames Gateway and East Kent and Ashford too."
Jonathan Williams, Marine South East Chief Executive, believes this is real progress for the industry: "this is a real breakthrough. Over the past couple of years we have been plugging away at this issue and working to represent to the industry at a regional level and ensure that the trend for shrinking access to the water doesn't continue.
"However, this isn't the end of the issue: the inspectors' recommendations need to be reflected in the final regional spatial strategy, and we then need to ensure that the resulting policy is reflected in individual planning cases."
If you would like to see the full report go to
http://www.gos.gov.uk/gose/planning/regionalPlanning/southEastPlan/
Posted 2007-09-30 11:16:22
Isle of Wight looks at opportunity to lead in renewable energy
Marine and Technical Marketing Consultants (MTMC) were recently commissioned by the Isle of Wight Council to conduct a Feasibility Study into the establishment of the Solent Ocean Energy Centre - an evaluation and research centre for marine energy technologies on the Isle of Wight.
The government has set ambitious targets for generation of electricity from renewable sources, in order to fulfill its obligations under the Kyoto Protocol. The Centre for evaluation and research into marine renewable energy technologies on the Isle of Wight would underpin the achievement of those targets.
The Centre would also contribute to several targets within the SEEDA Regional Economic Strategy, by promoting the Region's knowledge in marine renewable energy, assisting the development of business consortia for the marine renewables sector and providing infrastructure to maintain international economic competitiveness in the marine industry.
The Centre would provide integrated business support, particularly for micro-businesses, which are the core of its recommended business model. It would build on the local strength of marine-related companies on the Isle of Wight (and surrounding SEEDA region), potentially transforming the current low-wage economy into a technology and knowledge-based economy.
Four candidate sites on the north and east shores of the Isle of Wight have been studied and ranked according to their suitability for a sheltered marine tidal test facility. Further investigations are recommended, prior to final site selection.
Two potential deep offshore sites for testing prototype tidal stream generators with grid connection have been identified. Further investigations and consultations are recommended, to select the most appropriate site and to ensure that the application for consents will run smoothly.
The commercial structure proposed for the Centre is based on a successful model developed by an informal grouping of Isle of Wight companies, to provide an integrated technical and commercial service to clients.
The report demonstrated that there is a wealth of technical expertise residing in companies based on the Isle of Wight and in the surrounding SEEDA region. For each project conducted through the Centre, a group of companies would be selected from this technical resource and subcontracted to deliver the customer's requirements.
The proposed Centre is seen to be complementary to other UK marine energy test centres, such as NaREC, EMEC and Wavehub and there is potential for informal partnering arrangements with these establishments.
An overview of the global marine renewable energy market and of financial, environmental and political drivers in the UK demonstrates the commercial opportunities presented by the sector. The UK has a competitive advantage based on its world-leading position in tidal energy technologies, a plentiful tidal resource and strong existing offshore skills. However, there are three main hurdles to achieving the full potential of marine energy generation, namely financing, grid access and planning / permitting. The proposed offshore test site will alleviate the latter two of these problems.
Economic analysis shows that it is feasible for the Centre to commence operating immediately, using existing laboratory facilities, with an initial investment of £74k for the first year's set-up and overhead costs and a desirable investment of £50k for instrumentation.
If you would like to see the full report on the feasibility study log onto http://www.marinesoutheast.co.uk/docs/research
Posted 2007-09-30 11:12:17
Medway Council publishes economic study on the River Medway
Medway Council and partners including Marine South East last month published the first in-depth study of the River Medway economy. The study was jointly commissioned because of the close linkages between Medway Council’s requirement to get a better understanding on the workings of the River Medway, and Marine South East’s need to for further information about the logistical process around some ports in the South East to support the RACINE project.
Medway Council Economic Development, Marine South East, the River Medway Business Users Association (RMBUA) and Business Link Kent commissioned Drewry Shipping Consultants Ltd to undertake the River Medway Economic Study in January 2007.
The bulk of funding came via Medway Renaissance, using European Interreg money through the REVIT project (which promotes best practice on brownfield site regeneration), and CLG as part of regeneration programme.
The study provides a useful basis for the Council to:
• Inform the development of future planning policy with respect to the river and riparian activities
• Take forward discussion with external partners, including the Environment Agency, and with landowners over future uses
• Move forward an agenda for transport and leisure benefits through increased river usage
Cllr Jane Chitty, Portfolio Holder for Strategic Development and Economic Growth, said ‘The report is very thorough and contains number of useful recommendations that Officers will be looking at very closely. The future of the River Medway is critical to the future of Medway as a whole, and we want it to continue as the lifeblood of the local economy, and as something that the whole community can enjoy.’
On 7 September at the Greenwich University Medway campus Bill Moses (Drewry Shipping Consultants) presented the findings of the River Medway Study to an invited audience. This was followed by a reception onboard the Kingswear Castle paddle steamer. Delegates were able to see at first hand some of the key sites on the Medway River and discuss the report’s findings in more detail with its authors and other stakeholders.
A summary of the report is available at http://www.medwaybusiness.co.uk and is also available on the Marine South east website at http://www.marinesoutheast.co.uk/docs/research
Posted 2007-09-30 11:00:30
Environment & Innovation
Regional Assembly select committee on reducing the ecological footprint
The Regional Assembly has responsibility for scrutinising the South East England Development Agency’s (SEEDA) work. As part of this they organise select committees to examine the role played by SEEDA in addressing key issues facing the region.
The next select committee will look at what is being done, and what more could or should be done in the future, to help reduce the region's ecological footprint. Whilst SEEDA is usually the primary focus of the select committees, on this occasion scrutiny members felt it appropriate to engage with a wider range of organisations given the significance and complexity of this issue
The committee would like to involve a wide range of organisations in a debate on this important issue and are keen to hear your views. They have commissioned a context and issues paper from consultants CAG to help frame the discussions. They would like to hear the views of marine companies - if you would like to receive a copy of the paper for discussion email nickwoolfenden@southeast-ra.gov.uk for a copy of the relevant papers. All written submissions should be received by Monday 29 October 2007. Written responses will be considered by the select committee during the course of their deliberations.
If you have any questions contact nickwoolfenden@southeast-ra.gov.uk or 01483 555204 or Claire Hamilton clairehamilton@southeast-ra.gov.uk or 01483 555229. If you would like any further information about scrutiny workvisit the SEERA website http://www.southeast-ra.gov.uk/our_work/accountability/select.html
Posted 2007-09-28 09:47:09
Isle of Wight hosts Wave and Tidal Technologies Symposium
The marine renewable energy resource, comprising of wave and tidal power, is a massive untapped resource in which the UK is abundant. Europe holds 20% - 30% of global tidal resources, 80% of which is located in and around the coastlines of the UK and France. Marine renewables could therefore make a significant contribution to helping the UK achieving its share of the EU 20% target. However this industry is still extremely young and only a handful of devices are deployed worldwide. The sum of both tidal stream and wave energy totals less than 5MW, globally.
The Renewable Energy Asociation’s (REA) annual Wave and Tidal Technologies Symposium (WATTS), now in its 5th year, addresses the most pertinent issues affecting the sector. WATTS 2007, held on the Isle of Wight, was very well received, the sun shone and the Island provided a beautiful backdrop for the conference. Many attended to hear more about technical aspects within the industry and to see how real projects had fared in the water. The case studies session provided valuable perspectives and experience of functional and technical practicalities. Cyrille Perier of EDF gave a fascinating presentation on operational experience with the La Rance tidal barrage, one of the few devices in full operation, and showed some very impressive videos which included the construction process. Hans Christian Sørensen, Chairman of the Wave Dragon Board, offered his experience of the Wales based Wave dragon demonstration project, and Peter Fraenkel of Marine Current Turbines gave a progress report on the ‘Seagen’ tidal turbine.
Other presentations offered a taste of the industry across the British Isles with contributions from Sue Kearns of the Scottish Executive, Ron Loveland from the Welsh Assembly discussing initiatives in Wales, and Eoin Sweeny of the Irish Marine Institute. There is no denying the continued frustration that despite much rhetoric from government, the UK administration has still done little to set up policy mechanisms that will establish a positive investment framework for marine energy, and regulatory and permitting issues threaten to be real barriers. The Severn tidal barrage also had much airing and remains a contentious issue. Looking outside the UK, Anna Gigantino, Head of Ocean Energy at the European Commission, outlined opportunities within the EU for marine renewables.
Marine renewables companies were among the 40 founder members of the REA, established in 2001 to represent British renewable energy producers and promote the use of sustainable energy in the UK. The REA has now expanded to over 500 companies, active across the whole spectrum of renewables. The Ocean Energy Group provides a forum for REA members with interests in the marine renewables sector. Stephanie Merry, the REA’s Head of Marine, offers her extensive expertise and knowledge in helping the group achieve its aims. A primary focus of the OEG is the progress of marine energy device development to prove the capability and survivability of full-scale prototypes, and facilitate the measures required to bring projects to commercial fruition. The group offers a medium for information dissemination, networking and government lobbying. The OEG engages in policy development and provide input to Government departments, agencies, NGOs and others. The OEG strives to ensure that development of the marine renewables industry is not hindered through disproportionate financial, technical or bureaucratic barriers upon developers, while working to ensure that all parties involved are fairly represented.
For more information, and to view the presentations from the conference visit www.r-ea.net
Posted 2007-09-30 11:22:20
Skills &Training
October’s Marenet event brings skills issues to the fore, 17 October 2007
The ground-breaking Manufacturing, Engineering and Marine Skills Project (MEMSP) has been running for some years addressing the needs of skills development in the marine, engineering and manufacturing sectors within Hampshire and Isle of Wight. The annual Skills Festival for school children has gone from strength to strength and this year MareNet will be jointly hosting with MEMSP a VIP lunch for industry, training providers and business support organisations during the event. The ‘Investing In and Recruiting Tomorrow’s Workforce’ VIP lunch will take place on Wednesday 17th October 2007, starting promptly at 11.30am in the Richard’s Room at the Southampton Rose Bowl Conference Centre (junction 7 of the M27).
The event will focus on skills and recruitment in the marine and engineering sectors and presentations will include an overview of current workforce development projects by Angela Wright, Managing Director of Solent Skills Quest, details of new and emerging skills initiatives from Bill Sutton of SEMTA and a case study in recruiting and mentoring technology graduates from Steve Williams of NDS. The event will include a panel question and answer session covering all aspects of skills and workforce development.
The event, which is free of charge, will conclude with a networking buffet lunch and will finish at 1330 giving delegates an opportunity to visit the Skills Festival.
To register for this event please complete email your details to admin@marinesoutheast.co.uk.
Posted 2007-09-28 09:51:49
Marine South East gains funding for CAD/CAM training
Marine South East has recently gained funding under the 2007/08 SEEDA Training Pools initiative to develop CAD/CAM training. The intention is to work with a number of marine designers, naval architects and superyacht designers within the region who initially identified the need for marine specific technical training.
The training will offer high level skills training for Level 3 and higher and the the leading partner for the development and delivery of these courses will be the Marine Regional Resource Centre (RRC) located in Southampton. It is anticipated that the courses will be modular and tailored to the individual needs of companies with training taking place at the employer's premises or the RRC.
For more information on this please contact David Rea at Marine South East on david@marinesoutheast.co.uk or call +44 (0)23 8076 6767
Posted 2007-09-30 10:43:04
This year’s Skills Festival now fully booked
Exhibition space is now fully booked at this year’s Manufacturing, Engineering and Marine Skills Festival, and exhibitors are expecting to showcase the opportunities they have on offer to up to 2000 young people from schools and colleges across Hampshire and the Isle of Wight.
Angela Wright, the festival organiser, is delighted with the enthusiasm of businesses this year.
"We have had an unprecedented level of interest this year for an event that has been growing steadily since it started four years ago. We are looking forward to an exciting range of activities for students to get their hands on, and are continually surprised by the range of exciting visual and interactive displays that companies offer each year."
Although there is no exhibition space available, companies are welcome to come along to the festival to take a look at what is going on. There is also a Marenet event taking place at this year's event, with presentations on training and recruitment issues in the marine industry.
If you would like to attend the Marenet event please contact Jin at Marine South East by email admin@marinesoutheast.co.uk. If you are interested in taking a look around the festival, this is strictly available by prebooking with the festival organisers. Please contact robin.smith@solentskillquest.co.uk. It will not be possible to just turn up on the day without prior consent from the organisers.
Posted 2007-09-30 10:18:48
New Maritime Enterprise game introduces young people to the business of shipping
On 27 September, The Maritime Enterprise Game was officially launched by Sea Vision and the Marine Society & Sea Cadets at the World Maritime Day celebration on HQS Wellington. Officer trainees from Fleetwood Nautical Campus (Blackpool and the Fylde College) demonstrated how to play the game.
A Team from Nautilus UK experienced the thrills of ship owning for an afternoon in August at a trial run of the new Maritime Enterprise Game. The board game aims to engage secondary school pupils in the cut and thrust of the business world — teaching them about the shipping industry along the way.
The game was first developed in a general business version by a teacher in Halton, Cheshire. The Enterprise Game, as the original is known, has been around for some time, but has recently gained in popularity because of a requirement for schools to teach entrepreneurial skills as part of the national curriculum.
The Maritime Enterprise Game is a new nautical version developed by the Sea Vision NW Careers Group, in which the business of the game centres on the delivery of containers to customers via ships, ports and trucks.
With each turn, players have to make entrepreneurial decisions about buying assets and finding suitable customers — while still retaining enough cash to pay overheads. An element of chance is brought to the game through rolls of the dice and ‘shipshape cards’, which subject the players to the vagaries of the shipping industry. For example, players might suddenly be fined for deficiencies revealed in their port state control inspection, or they may win an award for their environmentally- friendly vessels.
For further information go to http://www.worldmaritimeday.com
Posted 2007-09-30 10:57:14
New mini-guides launched to boost sector skills
This week engineering, manufacturing and marine businesses across Hampshire and the Isle of Wight will receive mini-guides to training, from Solutions – The Training and Skills Partnership.
The guides are free and highlight how companies can gain from training. Anna Wood, Project Director at Solutions, said; "The right training can have a huge impact on a business. These guides are designed to show the benefits of training as well as give an outline of courses and services available.
"These two guides have been tailored for the manufacturing, engineering and marine industries as many businesses in these sectors must comply with government regulations which, to a large degree, dictate their training requirements. Often managers need to arrange training at short notice but do not have the information to hand. These guides are designed to put training at your fingertips and to alleviate the hassle of sourcing relevant training."
Solutions also offer a free advisory service to all businesses in Hampshire and the Isle of Wight which works with employers to identify their training requirements, and then find the right course, training provider and location to suit their needs.
To obtain a copy of the guides or to discuss your other training needs please contact an advisor at Solutions - The Training and Skills Partnership, on telephone 023 8065 2588 or visit http://www.solutionstrainingpartnership.com
Posted 2007-09-30 11:03:39
Networking & news from around the region
Marine South East appoints new board member
Marine South East has recently appointed Malcolm Bruce to the Board. He is a Director at Northrup Grumman Sperry Marine, formerly Decca and will bring with him the views and issues associated with working within a larger marine organisation. His appointment is an important step forward in improving representation of marine electronics businesses in the region and also communication with larger companies within the industry.
Go to http://www.marinesoutheast.co.uk/about_us/?link=structure.php for full details of Marine South East's board members.
Posted 2007-09-28 09:48:49
New Chair for SMI
The Society of Maritime Industries has recently appointed a new Chair. Peter French succeeded Kelvyn Derrick as Chairman and as Chief Executive of BMT Group Ltd has been a member of the Society’s Board since 2005.
In acknowledging his appointment he commented: “I am very happy to take on this role at such a dynamic time for the industry. In recent years the Society has grown to be the trade association of choice for many companies in the maritime industries across its five business sectors. I look forward to working with my fellow Directors on representing the best interests of the industry.”
Peter French is a maritime civil engineer. He joined BMT in 1990. He is also a member of the Boards of ITIC (International Transport Intermediaries Club) and AIRTO (Association of Independent Research & Technology Organisations), member of Council of RINA, a member of the Industrial Advisory Board of the School of Engineering Sciences at the University of Southampton and a Vice President of ECMAR (European Co-operation in Maritime Research).
Posted 2007-09-28 09:59:53
Applications invited for South East Business Awards
SEEDA is organising the first ever South East Business Awards which are taking place in March 2008. The Awards will recognise and celebrate entrepreneurs, companies and organisations that are enterprising, innovative and are making an outstanding contribution to the region.
They are looking for applications from businesses across the South East in the following award categories:
UKTI International Award
Innovation & Creativity Award
Manufacturing Award
Business Growth Award
Young Entrepreneur Award
Environment Award
Corporate Social Responsibility Award
Excellence in Skills & Development Award
Companies can apply online at http://www.southeastbusinessawards.co.ukwhich goes live on 5th September. All companies that are short listed will be invited to attend a spectacular awards ceremony on the 6th March at Ascot Racecourse.
For further information contact Jin by emailing mailto:admin@marinesoutheast.co.uk
Posted 2007-09-28 10:02:21
Two successful MareNet events in September with busy programme ahead
Record numbers attended the 4th September MareNet event held in partnership with Portsmouth City Council at Boathouse No 7 in the Historic Dockyard.
There were presentations from Tony Belisario, Managing Director of VT Shipbuilding; Paul Karas Partnership Director Fleet Support Ltd and Barbara Thompson, Strategic Director for Portsmouth City Council. The event was timely following the recent Government announcements on the new Carriers and the future of Portsmouth Naval Dockyard.
The assembled 70+ delegates were given a comprehensive insight into the current projects and issues affecting VT Shipbuilding as well as a look at their future projects, supply chain and employment needs. Paul Karas from Fleet Support talked about their broad range of partnerships with the Navy, Civil Service and industry and gave a very interesting assessment of FSL's needs for the future and next generation models of partnerships which will affect the marine sector. Barbara Thompson concluded the presentations with an overview of the marine cluster in the Portsmouth sub-region and posed a number of challenges for the future of the marine sector including waterfront issues, skills needs, innovation and awareness.
The presentations stimulated a lively question and answer session on a number of topics including waterfront needs and ways to address the skills shortage. If you would like to download presentations from the event log on to http://www.marinesoutheast.co.uk/docs/papers
On 17th September, Marine South East co-hosted another very successful MareNet event with the University of Southampton. The theme of the event was 'From Americas Cups to Sound and Vibration; Marine Business Collaborations with the University of Southampton' and presentations included a number of University personnel including Professor Phil Nelson talking about the University's marine capabilities, Professor Ajit Shenoi looking at the marine sector through the knowledge economy and Ian Campbell, from the Wolfson Unit giving insights into the Luna Rossa Americas Cup Challenge 2007. A very interesting industry perspective on working with the University of Southampton was given by James Grazebrook, Joint Managing Director of Halyard Marine.
News of new European regulation on noise pollution from Brussels ten years ago prompted Halyard to take action. He helped create a partnership of companies and marine industry organisations from France, Italy, Sweden and Finland as well as the University and Halyard; it secured 750,000 euros for a two year Framework Six project to investigate the causes of noise in motorboats. Data was collected from 55 boats at locations all over Europe, and analysed by Halyard and ISVR acoustic engineers in Southampton. It found noise from exhausts was the main culprit. Along the way, the collaboration patented the Sound Buoy, a new device to measure noise from passing boats more easily.
The event, which took place during the Southampton Boat Show was well attended and concluded with a very useful networking session with marine businesses able to talk to University of Southampton staff about possible future collaborations.
Posted 2007-09-28 10:17:38
Marine networking leads to the development of the ‘Sailguide’ system for blind sailors
In November 2006 Marine South East was contacted by Tony Lawton, a keen dinghy sailor who is visually impaired. Tony was seeking a company to develop a system especially designed for sailors such as himself, who wished to sail independently around a racing course on a large lake or offshore water.
Tony had sought advice from several people but none were aware of a system which was capable of meeting his requirements. Marine South East made enquiries and also forwarded the request to Nic Parker at the British Marine Federation.
Soon after Marine South East received a call from Ken Wittamore of Triskel Marine based in Cornwall. Ken had been working with the BMF on the 'Soundbuoy' Project and felt that his company could assist as they had already developed suitable technology which could be adapted to meet Tony's requirements.
Triskel worked with Tony to develop a GPS based system which would allow him to steer around a series of buoys using distance and bearing to the mark information provided by a computer generated voice.
In August the first live trials were held with a prototype 'Sailguide' system. Tony took the helm of a cruiser and using only the information from the system made all the navigational decisions to steer the boat around the mark.
After the trials Tony Lawton said "This is the first time since becoming blind that I have been able to sail a boat with no external assistance. It was a wonderful,
emotional moment when I first steered the boat around the mark and all of the TML crew cheered and clapped. I had thought that I would never be able to sail independently again but using the Sailguide I hope to be racing independently again next season."
Since the trials Tony has contacted Marine South East to say "a big thank you" to us for helping to make the links with Triskel Ltd as they have enabled him to make his "dream become a reality". Tony anticipates a further trial in the near future when he will be navigating around a complete set of race marks after which the 'Sailguide' system will be fitted to his Challenger dinghy and he will be back on the dinghy racing circuit.
Further information on Triskel's work including the 'Sailguide' system can be viewed on http://www.triskelmarine.co.uk
Posted 2007-09-30 10:37:49
International trade event at this year’s London Boat Show
The British Marine Federation (BMF) has revealed details of an expanded and revamped programme for giving buyers the opportunity to learn more about new and innovative marine products at this year’s Collins Stewart London Boat Show.
The International One to One initiative in association with IBI Magazine, formally Meet the Buyer, will allow, for the first time, international suppliers of marine products from around the world to come to the Boat Show and meet potential customers in a ’speed dating’ format of timed meetings.
A rapid and comprehensive meeting schedule will allow those in the market to get an overview of what's on offer in today's marine sector. Buyers will be drawn from four market sectors - Distributors, Boatbuilders, Superyacht yards and Designers/Project Managers - and around 20 countries. You can see the latest list of Buyers attending at
http://www.international-121.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=4&itemid=4
The importance of the event is underlined by support from UK Trade and Investment - the Government's overseas trade promotion body. The UK has one of the most dynamic and successful marine industry's in the world, a large proportion of which relies on export markets for business.
In the previous format of the meeting programme in 2007, 25 buyers came from 17 countries and 515 individual meetings took place.
Commenting, Tom Chant, International Commercial Manager at the BMF, said: "The key difference with the new event is the international scope. Previously we had included only UK suppliers, but now we are opening up the event to suppliers from anywhere in the marine world."
Rob Stevens, Chief Executive of the BMF added: "The Collins Stewart London Boat Show gives the UK marine industry the chance to showcase its value to the world. Through the revamped international 121 initiative, the BMF hopes to ensure that buyers and suppliers from around the world will be able to exchange ideas and develop business links in a productive environment at the show.
"I believe this year's event will be the best ever for business and prove hugely beneficial to the industry"
Prospective attendees - suppliers and buyers - for the international one to one programme can register their interest at http://www.international-121.com
Posted 2007-09-30 10:45:22
Events
Skills Festival and Marenet Skills event, 17 October 2007
Venue: Hampshire Rose Bowl, Southampton
The annual Manufacturing, Engineering and Marine Skills Festival will be held alongside the October Marenet event this year.
Please see individual listings in Skills section of email news for further information on both of these events.
Posted 2007-09-30 19:52:46
Winning Business in Turkey - Opportunities for marine businesses, Thursday 18 October 2007 10.00am – 2.00pm
Venue: Hilton Hotel, Bracknell, Berks
Turkey lies at the crossroads between East and West tying the country close to Europe as well as the Middle East and Asia. Export opportunities exist for British firms in the security sector including; fire and police and in also in marine, ICT electronics, education and training, among others.
Discover how your business could benefit at UK Trade & Investment's seminar.
You could benefit from:
• Updates on the business climate in Turkey;
• A case study presentation from a local company trading there;
• Experts on hand throughout the morning with experience in the market;
• The chance to find out more about our market visit to Turkey in February 2008.
The event costs £50+VAT per delegate. An early booking discount is available subject to conditions, please see our website for more details.
For more information and to book contact 08454 58 64 00 or visit http://www.uktisoutheast.com/winningbusiness
Posted 2007-09-28 10:08:13
Accessing Business Opportunities in the Naval Programmes of Australia, Monday 22 October 2007
Venue: Army & Navy Club, London
With the ever increasing importance of the Far East and the Western Pacific basin as an area of international strategic significance and growing economic prosperity, the future naval procurement programme of Australia is currently enjoying close attention from the Australian government.
This renewed interest presents improving prospects for business opportunities particularly for UK companies working in the maritime industries, a large number of which already have close ties with the Australian naval industry.
There are of course difficulties to be overcome but these are not insurmountable and the cultural advantages of a common language and business processes goes a long way to resolving these. A growing number of UK companies are already exploring these possibilities.
Cut-off date for receipt of all applications is Friday 12 October 2007. For further information contact Clementina Upton on 020 7928 9199 or email events@maritimeindustries.org
Posted 2007-08-31 12:45:48
Kormarine 2007, 24th -27th October
Venue: Busan South , Korea
The BMEA is offering companies the opportunity to display their brochures on the BMEA stand at Kormarine. Kormarine is the largest and most prestigious marine trade exhibition, fully supported by the world's biggest Shipbuilders, in Korea .
- Kormarine covers both commercial and military Shipbuilding as well as featuring an area dedicated to ports and terminals.
- Kormarine is the leading showcase for Korean marine business and will be attended by all the major Shipyards including Hyundai Heavy, Hyundai Mipo, Hanj in Heavy and Construction Co Limited, Daewoo Shipbuild in g and Marine Engineering Co Limited, Samsung Heavy Industries and STX Limited, amongst others.
- The deadline for receipt of brochures is 3 September. You will get Provision for up to 50 brochures / magazines or 4 kilos. You will also get Full contact details of visitors/ interested parties after the event. The cost of this is £250.
Contact Karen Gray at BMEA for further information bmea@maritimeindustries.org or call tel: +44 (0)20 7928 9199
Posted 2007-07-23 17:55:55
The Suppliers Conference for the British (CVF) and French (PA2) Aircraft carrier programmes, Thursday 25 October 2007
Venue: Marriott City Centre Hotel, Bristol
With the completion of the Assessment Phase for the replacement programme for the Royal Navy's aircraft carriers, the UK government has recently confirmed that the two new aircraft carriers, each displacing 65,000 tons, will now be built under the CVF programme.
As part of a parallel international framework involving cooperation with France on its PA2 carrier programme, French and UK naval and maritime industries are encouraged to bid for the supply of equipment and systems on both the CVF & PA2 programmes.
The CVF programme will be managed by the CVF Alliance that brings together the Ministry of Defence teams with those of BAE Systems, VT Group, Babcock International Group, KBR and Thales UK.
Although many important procurement decisions have been taken during the extended Assessment Phase of the programme, and some contracts have been placed, a significant amount of business remains to be established with second and third tier sub-contractors.
The deadline for receipt of applications to attend is Friday, 12 October. For further information contact Clementina Upton on 020 7928 9199 or email events@maritimeindustries.org
Posted 2007-09-30 11:20:29
Market Visit to India, 31 October - 6 November 2007
Venue: India
India is set to become one of the biggest markets in the world, the economy is expanding phenomenally fast, with a growing consumer class and confident private sector.
Opportunities exist for UK businesses in a wide variety of sectors and UK Trade & Investment are leading a market visit to Delhi to help South East companies explore the possibilities.
Companies can benefit from:
• Support from a knowledgeable group leader with business experience of India;
• Pre-visit briefing in the UK providing information on India and the opportunity to meet other delegates;
• British Deputy High Commission support through their Commercial teams and a briefing including a detailed overview of the market and useful trading tips;
• Flexibility to investigate the market including visiting your potential clients, partners or other relevant business contacts;
• Eligible companies may receive a financial contribution of £550 towards their costs.
There is an administration fee of £120+ VAT for the Market Visit. There is also an early booking discount for companies that book by 26th October 2007.
For more information and to book contact 08454 58 64 00 or visit http://www.uktisoutheast.com/marketvisits
Posted 2007-09-28 10:10:59
November Marenet event looks at Olympic opportunities, Wednesday 7 November 2007 - 4pm
Venue: Hayling Island Sailing Club
This Marenet event is looking at potential opportunities for companies to get involved with the 2012 Olympics. Speakers are to be confirmed, look out for further details in the November issue of email news.
Alternatively register your interest by emailing admin@marinesoutheast.co.uk and we will send you details as and when they become available.
Posted 2007-09-30 11:31:59
Opportunity to Meet Visiting Commercial Officers at this year’s Mets, Wednesday 14th November
Venue: METS, Netherlands
If you are considering exporting your goods or services around the globe, you could benefit from a free 45 minute one-to-one meeting with our visiting Commercial Officers from Taiwan, Italy, Netherlands, Portugal, France, Finland and New Zealand
Commercial Officers are a valuable part of UK Trade & Investments' overseas network. With sound knowledge and experience of their local markets, they have access to up-to-date business opportunities and can provide tailored advice for you and your business.
Benefits from attending a meeting include:
• An overview of their country’s business opportunities;
• Useful cultural tips;
• Access to relevant business contacts / websites;
• Answers to your specific questions face-to-face.
Meetings are available during the day on Wednesday 14th November at Mets 2007. These can take place either at your stand or in a meeting room (tbc) at RAI. If you would like to book a meeting please contact Kandy Jones or Wenda Primrose on: kandy.jones@uktisoutheast.com or call 01329 226214, wenda.primrose@uktisoutheast.com or call 01329 226201
Posted 2007-09-30 10:51:52
Market Visit to Hong Kong and Greater China, 17-24 November 2007
Venue: Hong Kong and China
Hong Kong and Greater China continue to offer outstanding potential for many British companies to improve their global competitiveness. Based on the success of last years visit, where 70% of companies won new business, UK Trade & Investment are running a one week Market Visit to Hong Kong and China (Shenzhen-Shanghai).
By joining this visit, you could benefit from:
• Support from a knowledgeable group leader with in-depth business experience of China and Hong Kong;
• A flexible orientation and factory visit programme with the option to study the market and visit potential clients, or partners, independently;
• Pre-visit briefing in the UK providing information on the market and the opportunity to meet other delegates;
• Support from Commercial Officers based at the Embassy, including a detailed overview of the market and useful trading tips covered during a briefing;
• Flexibility to adapt the itinerary to suit own objectives in the market including visiting your potential clients, partners or other relevant business contacts;
An attractive travel and hotel package with eligible companies receiving a financial package of £750.
There is an administration fee of £120+ VAT for the Market Visit.
For more information and to book contact 08454 58 64 00 or visit http://www.uktisoutheast.com/marketvisits
Posted 2007-09-28 10:14:23
Making the new maritime industries landscape deliver, 21-22 November 2007
Venue: Holiday Inn Conference Centre, Plymouth
A national conference to debate the issues that surround delivery of the UK maritime capabilities across the new landscape of the Maritime Industries
The conference includes optional industrial visits and a structured programme of one-to-one meetings between delegates as well as a reception and conference dinner in the wardroom of the naval base barracks, HMS Drake. It will be an excellent net-working opportunity.
Return booking forms no later than Friday, 2nd November 2007. For further information contact Clementina Upton on 020 7928 9199 or email events@maritimeindustries.org
Posted 2007-08-31 12:47:18
Marintec China 2007, Tuesday 27 November 2007 - Friday 30 November 2007
Venue: Pudong Shanghai, China
Marintec China, Shanghai, is the number one marine exhibition for the Chinese market, attracting the all-important ship design centres, shipbuilding, repair and conversion yards, as well as major Chinese ship-owning companies such as COSCO, who operate one of the worlds’ largest fleets. There are also Chinese marine firms exhibiting who seek technology and innovation from British companies by way of joint ventures and partnerships.
It is an ideal opportunity to get close to the procurement teams of the major yards, as well as to talk to Chinese agents who already represent UK marine firms.
There will be a large presence of procurement personnel from the China State Shipbuilding Corporation (CSSC), who are now the central procurement body for all the shipyards in Southern China. When attending Marintec, the British companies on the UK Pavilion will find that the Chinese Heads of Procurement are not shy about dropping in for a chat and drink at the BMEA business lounge.
For more information contact Karen Gray on 020 7928 9199 or email bmea@maritimeindustries.org
Posted 2007-08-31 12:49:17
European Inland Waterways and Ports Forum, 27-28 November 2007
Venue: Crowne Plaza Hotel, Amsterdam
Explosive growth of trade volumes in Europe's seaports has created capacity problems – which is why the focus is now on inland port and waterway development
That's why Lloyd’s Register–Fairplay's Maritime Events Division (MED) is organising the first European Inland Waterways and Ports Forum.
Increased use of inland waterways to move freight cost-effectively and simultaneously curb emissions and reduce congestion is a policy actively pursued by the EU. Europe has a network of 35,000km of rivers and canals, carrying nearly 500M tonnes of freight annually – and huge investments are planned across the continent to expand and improve inland waterways, ports and terminals that will affect shipping lines, shippers, forwarders and intermodal operators.
Forum sessions will cover:
* European Overview, including present EU projects
* Ports and Inland Waterways
* Using Inland Waterways Today
* Environment and Economics.
Organisations that have already confirmed presentations include the European Commission, European Investment Bank, CEDA, Hamburg Port Authority, European Sea Ports Organisation, Black Sea Coastal Association, Via Donau, TEN-T, European Federation of Inland Ports, the Port of Le Havre Inland and Inland Navigation Europe – the latter also sponsoring the event.
For more information and to register, please contact events@lrfairplay.com or Nigel Dickson or Julie Madigan on 01737 379105.
Posted 2007-08-31 12:24:04
Creating a Low Carbon South East conference, 29 – 30 November 2007
Venue: University of Southampton
'Creating a Low Carbon South East' is the primary event in the South East for those responsible for low carbon development in the public and private sectors. Today organisers released details of over 40 speakers who have been invited to address delegates on the issues of planning, construction, eco-towns, renewable energy, transport, fuels, innovation and the creation of low carbon communities. They will also look at how to deliver low carbon development within organisations and examine success stories from the South East and beyond.
Heading the list of policy makers and business leaders speaking at the conference are:
Heading the list of policy makers and business leaders speaking at the conference are:
• The Rt. Hon. John Denham MP, The Secretary of State for Innovation and Skills
• Sir John Houghton, Co-chair of the IPCC and founder of the Hadley Centre for Climate Prediction and Research
• David Lock, Chair of the Town and Country Planning Association
• Oona Muirhead, Director of the Sustainable Prosperity Directorate at SEEDA
• James Brathwaite, CBE, Chairman of SEEDA
• Keith House, Leader of Eastleigh Borough Council (who aim to be carbon neutral by 2012)
• Keith Moseley, Business Manager, npower renewables’
• Professor AbuBakr Bahaj, Head of the Sustainable Energy Research Group at the University of Southampton.
The conference also features workshops run by successful low carbon pioneers, offering unique insights into the low carbon innovation and techniques being used in organisations throughout Europe.
Organiser Christine Watkins comments: "The Conference Steering Group have put together a truly multidisciplinary program that tackles the most challenging aspects of low carbon development in the region".
The conference will be held at the University of Southampton, itself a low carbon pioneer and home of the world-renowned Sustainable Energy Research Group.
For more information visit www.environmentcentre.com or contact Alison Holmes on 023 8033 6172 / alison.holmes@environmentcentre.com
Posted 2007-09-28 09:42:27
Mumbai International Boat Show 2008, 28 February to 2 March 2008
Venue: Mumbai, India
The second Mumbai International Boat Show will take place next year February 28 - March 2nd 2008. The British Marine Federation is a strategic partner in the show, providing marketing consultancy, operational guidance and running global space sales.
The 2008 exhibition will be on the same site as the 2007 event and show space is expected to double to near 3000 square metres. The show will again be complemented by a conference, gala dinner and additional events. The marina will be installed at the famous "Gateway to India", and will provide 150 metres of space for on the water exhibits.
The project will be led by International Commercial Manager Tom Chant with operational guidance being provided by Murray Ellis and the National Boat Shows Operations team.
India's economy is booming and economic commentators point to an era of unprecedented growth. In a recent CapGemini - Merrill Lynch study India is the second fastest growing HNI (High Net Worth Individuals) market in the world. Consumer spending on lifestyle and luxury brands is at an all-time high, and that appetite shows no signs of abating. The country also has a strong maritime history, with Mumbai the home of the third oldest yacht club in the world, the Royal Bombay Yacht Club.
"Our position as strategic partner of the Mumbai International Boat Show offers very exciting opportunities for NBS, BMF and all of our members," said Tom Chant. "India has a rapidly developing leisure marine market and the MIBS offers unparalleled opportunities for exhibitors from the UK and around the world to make their mark.
"We look forward to working with the Mumbai team over the coming months to ensure that the show goes from strength to strength."
The debut show in Mumbai last year was deemed a great success. Over 60 exhibitors took the opportunity to display products ranging from small single man canoes to super yacht brokers and builders.
If you would like to discuss the show and the opportunities there, please contact Tom Chant on 01784 223 642 or tchant@britishmarine.co.uk or go to http://www.mumbaiboatshow.com
