Diamond Magazine Edition 38 - May & June 2026 by DiamondMag-gatwickdiamondbusiness

GATWICK DIAMOND: THE POWER OF PLACE

Gatwick Diamond: The Power of Place is a brand-new half‑day conference celebrating why the region is one of the UK’s most dynamic and connected places to do business. Taking place on 2 July at Wilton Park, the event brings together influential business leaders, inspiring speakers and a vibrant trade stand area to showcase the strength and ambition of the Diamond.

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An essential date for anyone looking to connect, collaborate and be part of a region to be proud of.

HEADLINE SPONSOR:

Sally Brown

Welcome to the May/June edition of Diamond Magazine As we welcome longer, sunnier days, it feels like a time for fresh ideas, renewed energy and exciting conversations, with this edition reflecting the progress, achievements and opportunities shaping our business community

In March, we came together at The Grand Brighton for the Gatwick Diamond Business Awards 2026, and what a night it was. Year after year, the Awards remind me just how exceptional our business community is Congratulations to all of this year’s winners and sincere thanks to everyone who joined us to celebrate excellence across our region I’m especially grateful to our sponsors and partners, whose support makes the Awards possible. You can find full details on pages 6-9

I’m also delighted that our Charity Prize Draw, featuring amazing prizes generously donated by The Grand, Brighton, Alexander House Hotel, BA Euroflyer

Euroflyer and Singapore Airlines, raised an incredible £6,800 on the night for our gdb charity members. Proof, once again, of the generosity and collective spirit that defines the Gatwick Diamond

This edition’s Member Spotlight shines on Chris White of Denbies Wine Estate, a long standing gdb member and one of the region’s most recognisable and successful businesses Chris shares his perspective on the value of being part of the gdb community, why the Business Awards matter so much to Denbies, and how meaningful connections across the Diamond continue to create real opportunities

I’m also pleased to introduce our new flagship event, Gatwick Diamond: The Power of Place, taking place this summer at Wilton Park. This half day conference will celebrate what makes our region such a compelling place to do business, bringing together influential speakers, business leaders and partners to explore opportunity, connectivity and future growth. You’ll find further details in this edition, including how to get involved Tickets are now on sale, with trade stand opportunities available for businesses looking to raise their profile I’d strongly encourage you to take a look. This is set to become a standout event in the gdb calendar.

You’ll also read about continued progress across our region through Invest Gatwick Diamond, with a focus on connectivity, international opportunity and the long term value of place. As global trade patterns evolve, the Gatwick Diamond’s role as a gateway, supported by growing long-haul

long haul connectivity and a strong inward investment proposition, has never been more important. The launch of the new APPG for the South East and the Gatwick Diamond is another important step forward in ensuring our business community has a strong and consistent voice at Westminster on the issues that matter most.

Of course, connecting in person remains at the heart of what we do Our events calendar over the coming weeks is full of opportunities to meet fellow members, learn something new and build meaningful relationships across the Diamond I’d encourage you to get involved and make the most of everything your membership has to offer

My sincere thanks go to Menzies LLP, our sponsor for this edition of Diamond Magazine On pages 16-17 Caroline Milton explains why Crawley and the Gatwick Diamond were the natural strategic choice for their new office, highlighting the region’s connectivity, business diversity and access to talent.

As always, my thanks go to everyone who has contributed to this edition Diamond Magazine is shaped by the people who take the time to share their stories, insights and expertise –and that generosity is what keeps our community strong

I hope you enjoy reading this issue and feel inspired by the people and achievements it celebrates The Gatwick Diamond continues to thrive, and I look forward to working with you as we build what comes next

Sally Brown Managing Director

Name:

Business name:

Member since:

Description: Denbies Wine Estate Ltd 2010

Why More SMEs Are Turning to Fractional Marketing Leadership

seasoned expertise and an external perspective that challenges assumptions, simplifies complexity and introduces focus

In an environment where flexibility and financial discipline matter more than ever, fractional leadership provides a commercially sensible route to senior capability.

At Grant Race Consulting, we support scale-up and ambitious SMEs to make a step change in marketing performance and build structured, sustainable growth.

For a no-obligation conversation about whether the fractional model is right for your business, contact Grant at Grant Race Consulting on hello@grantrace-consulting co uk

Upskilling Digital Teams: How AI & Digital Apprenticeships Drive Growth, Performance and Retention

Grant Race

APPRENTICE OF THE YEAR

THE AWARD FOR OUTSTANDING CONTRIBUTION TO THE GATWICK DIAMOND

Supported by the gdb Council

Julie Kapsalis MBE

This prestigious award was presented by Dee Mathieson, Chair of the gdb Council, to Julie for her outstanding contribution to the region.

Over the span of two decades Julie’s career in economic development, skills enterprise and inclusive growth has made her one of the region’s most influential and transformative leaders For her exceptional leadership, her sustained dedication to the region, and the tangible, lasting positive impact of her work, Julie is a profoundly deserving winner.

CHARITY PRIZE DRAW

We are absolutely thrilled to share that thanks to incredible prize donations from The Grand, Brighton, Alexander House Hotel, BA Euroflyer and Singapore Airlines we raised a huge £6,800 for our very deserving and grateful gdb eligible charity members.

With thanks to our delivery partners

The DigiDownload

The digital world never sits still Beyond everyday updates, the past couple of months have brought broader shifts in how platforms operate, regulate behaviour and evolve their advertising ecosystems For businesses, these changes are easy to miss, but they can quietly impact visibility, engagement and performance Here are three developments worth keeping an eye on.

Platform Regulation Is Starting to Shape User Experience

Regulators, particularly in Europe, are taking

taking a more active role in how platforms are designed Moves targeting features like endless scrolling and addictive content loops signal a shift towards more controlled, transparent user experiences

For businesses, this could influence how content is consumed and prioritised Engagement strategies built around constant scrolling may become less effective, while platforms may favour more meaningful interactions

Ad Platforms Are Expanding Into New Spaces

Advertising is moving beyond traditional placements, with streaming services and emerging platforms opening up to advertisers This creates more opportunities, but also more complexity

For businesses, focus is key. More channels do not always mean better results and spreading budget too thinly can dilute performance

AI Competition Is Accelerating Behind the Scenes Competition around AI continues to intensify, with major platforms such as Google and TikTok rapidly evolving their capabilities This is already shaping how content is surfaced, how ads are delivered and how performance is measured

The playing field will keep shifting, but the fundamentals remain consistent: clear messaging, strong creative and informed decisions We’ll continue watching the updates, decoding the jargon and translating digital change into practical action, so you can focus on growing your business.

www.digibubble.co.uk

Radius with strong and trusted relationships with large corporates, particularly in the automotive sector Their arrival significantly strengthens our commercial and technology practice and enhances our ability to support clients operating in complex and fast-moving markets.”

Iain Larkins added:

“We are enormously excited to have joined Cripps Everyone I have met at the firm shares the same values we have at Radius delivering practical commercial advice while focusing on making a positive and lasting impact for our clients, people, community and planet Joining Cripps gives our team a fantastic platform to continue supporting our clients while offering access to the wider capabilities of a full-service law firm.”

www.cripps.co.uk

James Beatton & Iain Larkins

Here's the truth nobody says out loud: the businesses that need you most are the hardest to win. Seven-figure companies want a thousand years of experience – and the clients you do land want a discount every single time

Behind every invoice is a mortgage, hundreds of hours, and four years of real expertise. That doesn't disappear because the economy is tight

Businesses are spending on content that looks good but lacks strategy They're hiring for aesthetics, resisting expert advice, and searching for shortcuts that don't exist. Meanwhile, AI is reshaping everything – and most businesses don't know whether it's their biggest opportunity or their biggest threat

It's both – without a plan. The businesses winning right now aren't those with the biggest budgets They’re

Diamond Magazine

Three areas tend to make the biggest difference: Foundation & Structure – Before investing in growth, businesses need clear frameworks Without them, even good ideas scatter

Creative Strategy – Content and brand only work when they're built around a real plan, not just what looks appealing at the time

AI as a Business Tool – Used well, AI saves time, reduces costs, and accelerates results Used poorly, it creates noise. The distinction lies in having a strategy around it.

Jessy Consultancy works with ambitious businesses on structure, creative strategy, and practical AI adoption Contact me to support you on these changes: www.jessyconsultancy.com

Jessica Pinto

Designing the Digital Backbone: How BSE|3D Supports the World’s Data Centres

Most of us never see a data centre, yet we rely on them every day. Every email sent, video streamed, online purchase made or AI tool used is powered by data centres working quietly in the background. They are the physical backbone of the digital world and designing them correctly is critical

At BSE|3D, we are proud to be part of the Gatwick Diamond business community while supporting data centre projects across the UK and around the world From our local base, our engineers help design the secure, resilient and energy-efficient facilities that keep global digital services running 24/7

What is a Data Centre?

In simple terms, a data centre is a highly specialised building that houses servers (powerful computers that store and process vast amounts of information) Unlike offices or warehouses, data centres must operate continuously without interruption. Even a few seconds of downtime can have major consequences for businesses, governments and communities

To achieve this, data centres require carefully engineered power, cooling and safety systems Keeping equipment running reliably, preventing overheating and ensuring resilience during power outages are all essential, and this is where specialist engineering expertise comes in.

How We Support Data Centres

BSE|3D are building services (MEP) engineers, meaning we design the mechanical, electrical and public health systems that allow complex buildings to function Data centres are a core part of our work. Our team has spent decades designing and delivering mission-critical facilities for a wide range of clients, from local operators to global technology providers

providers. We support data centres of all scales, from smaller ‘edge’ facilities serving local areas to hyperscale campuses that support cloud computing and AI workloads worldwide

While each project is different, our focus is always the same: resilience, efficiency and long-term performance We design systems that are robust, practical to operate and flexible enough to adapt as technology evolves.

Balancing Performance and Sustainability

Data centres are energy-intensive by nature, which makes sustainability a growing priority Around the world, operators are under increasing pressure to reduce energy use, carbon emissions and water consumption, while still delivering absolute reliability

Sustainable design is embedded into everything we do This includes energy-efficient cooling strategies, intelligent power distribution, and solutions that minimise environmental impact without compromising performance Our experience spans challenging climates and demanding operational environments, allowing us to design facilities that perform efficiently in the real world, not just on paper

Local Roots, Global Reach

Although we work internationally, we remain firmly rooted in the local business community Being part of the Gatwick Diamond network matters to us. It reflects our belief that global expertise can, and should, be delivered by strong regional businesses

Our portfolio includes projects across Europe and the Middle East, including extensive experience in the rapidly expanding data centre markets of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC). This global perspective allows us to bring best practice, innovation and insight into every project we deliver As demand for digital infrastructure continues to grow, data centres will only become more important At BSE|3D, we are proud to help engineer the award-winning systems that power the digital world, from our local base to a global stage

To learn more, visit www.bse3d.com

Rising Commercial Borrowing Costs in the South East

David Farmer

For much of late 2025, South East businesses enjoyed a period of relative calm as the Bank of England began trimming the base rate. However, as we move through Spring, a new reality is setting in: global volatility is driving up the cost of debt, and the ‘wait and see’ approach is becoming increasingly risky

The Swap Rate Surge: A Global Impact on Local Lending

For businesses in the South East, commercial mortgages and term loans are rarely tied directly to the Bank of England Base Rate Instead, lenders price their fixed-rate products against Swap Rates (specifically SONIA swaps) These rates represent the market’s expectation of interest rates over the next three to five years.

Geopolitical tensions in energyproducing regions and fluctuating global trade policies have reignited inflationary fears Because the South East is home to a high concentration of import-export businesses and energyintensive industries, these global shifts hit home harder and faster

The Inflation Factor in the Home Counties

Inflation isn't just a headline figure; it changes the math of a commercial deal In a high-value real estate market like the South East, even a minor uptick in inflation-driven interest rates can have a massive effect

At Lime Finance Solutions, we are working closely with business owners across the region to navigate these choppy waters. My advice to South East firms is simple: if you have a refinance looming or an acquisition in your sights, consider acting early You can't control global inflation, but you can control your fixed overheads by securing a rate before the next spike

We are here to help at Lime Finance Solutions.

www.lime-fs.com

Commercial Leases Mitigating the ‘Dilapidations’ Risk

For businesses securing new commercial premises, the primary focus is naturally on location, logistics, and growth However, a significant financial liability often remains dormant within the fine print of the lease agreement: Dilapidations

"Dilapidations" refers to the legal obligation to return a property to a specific standard of repair at the end of a tenancy A prevalent misconception among commercial tenants is that leaving a premise "clean and tidy" suffices. In reality, most Full Repairing and Insuring (FRI) leases mandate a complete reinstatement to the property's original configuration This often involves stripping out partitions, replacing flooring, and rectifying structural defects potentially even those that existed prior to occupation.

The financial impact typically materialises at lease expiry in the form of a terminal schedule of dilapidations from the landlord, often resulting in unbudgeted costs totalling tens of thousands of pounds.

Strategic risk mitigation begins prelease The most robust defence is commissioning a Schedule of Condition a forensic, photographic record of the property’s state prior to occupation This document serves as a factual baseline, limiting your liability and ensuring you are not billed for repairing pre-existing defects

F th l d id l ig i a

assessment can clarify potential exit liabilities early, allowing businesses to plan, budget, and negotiate from a position of knowledge In commercial property, understanding obligations in advance is rarely about avoiding cost altogether it is about avoiding unpleasant and unnecessary surprises at lease end.

www.focuscs.co.uk

Sale Ready: Maximise the Value of Your Business

income, clear differentiation and efficient growth engines all signal low risk, and buyers pay premiums for low risk

But true readiness goes far beyond tidy accounts or an organised data room It means knowing exactly who your ideal customers are, which ones drain margin and what makes you genuinely better The best businesses build high lifetime value, empowered teams, documented processes and data backed insight into their market, all critical in today’s forensic due diligence environment

Flexible working leads to higher productivity

Holly Ward

Eshcon supports university students for 20th anniversary

When Your People Don’t Take Ownership… What Can You Do?

Joe Cheal

Menzies LLP celebrates new office opening in Crawley

Q: Why was Crawley and the Gatwick Diamond chosen as the new location?

A: The Gatwick Diamond is one of the South East’s most vibrant economic regions, home to more than 45,000 businesses Caroline highlights that this made it a natural strategic fit for Menzies The firm already had strong ties to the local business community, and the area offers excellent connectivity, proximity to Gatwick Airport and access to a diverse and growing commercial landscape This central positioning enhances Menzies’ ability to serve clients while also opening new opportunities for growth and collaboration

The new office is based at Origin One, opposite Crawley Leisure Park We have a team of 80+ business advisory and accountancy professionals

Q: How does the new location support Menzies’ growth plans?

A: The relocation supports both client development and talent acquisition Being in Crawley allows Menzies to better talent

engage with businesses across Sussex, Kent and the wider Southeast At the same time, it enhances access to a broader talent pool The firm places strong emphasis on recruiting apprentices and graduates, and the new location offers closer links to local colleges and universities, helping to build a sustainable pipeline of future professionals

Q: What considerations were made for employees during the move?

A: Employee impact was a key factor throughout the planning process. Menzies conducted a feasibility assessment that showed the move could significantly affect around one-third of its workforce As a result, the firm focused heavily on communication, support and ensuring every team member had a voice The transition was carefully managed to make it as smooth as possible Notably, despite initial concerns about potential staff turnover, the firm did not lose a single employee as a result of the relocation something Caroline believes speaks volumes about Menzies’ culture and the opportunities it offers

Q: What is the working environment like in the new office?

A: The new office has been designed to provide a modern, engaging and collaborative working environment It features natural light, plants, breakout spaces, and recreational elements such as a pool table and arcade machine, alongside quality coffee facilities Menzies continues to operate a hybrid working model, with employees typically spending at least three days a week in the office However, Caroline notes that staff are enthusiastic about coming in, reflecting a strong workplace culture

Q: Has the move changed the way Menzies operates as a business?

A: No the firm’s core business model and service offering remain unchanged Menzies continues to provide a full range of accounting and tax advisory services, including audit, corporate and personal tax, deal advisory, restructuring, valuations and wealth management. The firm also offers specialist expertise in areas such as VAT, ESG services, tax disputes & disclosures and forensic accounting The relocation is about enhancing delivery and accessibility, rather than altering the services themselves

Q: What industries does the Gatwick office focus on?

A: The Gatwick team has strength in sectors such as transport and logistics, manufacturing, technology, and property and construction Menzies takes a sector-led approach, with professionals developing deep expertise in their chosen industries while also broadening their knowledge across disciplines to provide comprehensive support to clients

Q: How does the firm’s “Brighter Thinking” philosophy come into play?

A: “Brighter Thinking” is central to Menzies’ approach Rather than simply applying rules or legislation, the firm focuses on understanding the underlying objectives of clients and delivering practical, effective solutions This mindset also extends internally, shaping how the firm supports its people and approaches challenges. It reflects a commitment to innovation, collaboration and thoughtful problem-solving

Q: What are Menzies’ plans for engaging with the local community?

A: Menzies is keen to become an active and visible part of the Gatwick Diamond business community. The firm is sponsoring the Gatwick Diamond Business Awards and plans to deepen its involvement in local initiatives, including charity work Building strong local relationships is a key part of its long-term strategy in the region

Q: What’s next for the Gatwick office?

A: With plenty of space for expansion, the new office is designed to support continued growth The immediate focus is on settling in, strengthening local connections and continuing to deliver excellent service to clients While an official launch celebration is in the works, Caroline emphasises that it is very much “business as usual” as the firm looks ahead to its next phase of development.

cmilton@menzies.co.uk

Take your teams from "that was good!" to "that changed everything!"

The “one task” commitment: Ask participants to bring one manual or frustrating task to the session By the end, they commit to improving or automating it by a set date Manager and peer buy in: Change is harder alone Encourage managers to ask about new skills in one to ones, and pair confident users with more hesitant colleagues Plan for action: Everyone should leave knowing what they’ll change tomorrow and what they’ll review next month.

The power of the check in: Brief weekly check ins can surface obstacles and celebrate progress Recruit champions: Empower early adopters to share practical wins, making learning part of your culture.

If you have any questions, please get in touch jane@glidetraining.com

Jane Hames

Wide-reaching changes to the UK’s immigration landscape – what you need to know

Irwin

Mitchell expands office in Brighton as regional growth accelerates

Irwin Mitchell is expanding its Brighton office as its regional growth strategy continues to deliver strong results The firm is increasing office space in Brighton by 80%, supporting the rapid growth of its legal team in the region. The Brighton office was originally opened in 2024 Irwin Mitchell now operates in 25 locations across England, Scotland and Wales

The firm is relocating to the Runway East offices to support its growing private client and business services teams Brighton continues to attract inward investment and is an increasingly popular location for high net worth individuals and international investors seeking an alternative to London.

Craig Marshall, Group Chief Executive, said: “We continue to invest in our UK footprint, recruiting specialist lawyers and providing a larger platform to to support clients in growing cities Our successful

regional expansion strategy is proving successful, and our presence in local markets is strengthening We look forward to continuing to build our teams across the UK and helping even more clients access our specialist legal services.”

Tom Barnard, Regional Lead Partner for the South, added: “Our new office in Brighton will allow us to meet the needs of existing and future clients and further support our focus on growth in the region. The city is thriving and consistently ranked among the best locations for inward services

investment With our strength across both business and private client services, we are well placed to support clients across the South ”

Last month, Irwin Mitchell also moved into its new Gatwick office, following its relocation to The Northcliffe in London last year The firm will also move to a new office in Sheffield later this year Since 2021, the firm has also opened new offices in Liverpool, Nottingham and has invested in Scottish firm Wright, Johnston & Mackenzie

The firm has also agreed deals in the past 12 months to sell its debt recovery business Ascent and financial planning business IM Asset Management as it seeks to focus on growing and investing in its core legal services

www.IrwinMitchell.com

Denise Osterwald

Unlocking skilled talent in our local community

Gina Hollands

THE NEW TRADE MAP RUNS EAST

Creative Pod Invests in Experience with Senior Team Expansion

Creative Pod has recently welcomed two new Senior Marketing Executives, Kirstie Melella and Anaïs van der Werff, to its growing team, a move that signals more than just expansion for the multi-award-winning, Sussexbased agency It marks a clear commitment to a model that’s gaining traction across the industry: experience-led marketing, where the people shaping the strategy are the same ones delivering it

For years, many agencies have operated on a familiar structure Senior figures lead pitches and build relationships, but much of the day-today execution is delegated to junior team members While efficient, it can sometimes create a gap between what’s promised and what’s ultimately delivered Creative Pod’s latest hires reflect a conscious move away from that model.

With the addition of two senior specialists, the agency has reached a point where every stage of the client journey, from initial conversations and delivery

strategic planning to campaign delivery and optimisation, is handled by experienced marketers. Internally, it’s a simple philosophy - sold by seniors, delivered by seniors

It’s an approach that speaks directly to a shift in client expectations Businesses today are more informed, more performance-focused, and less willing to compromise on quality They’re not just buying ideas; they’re buying the expertise behind them, and that’s where seniority makes the difference

For Creative Pod, investing in senior talent isn’t just about strengthening the team It’s about ensuring consistency, accountability, and a higher standard of delivery across every touchpoint Get in touch: www.creativepod.uk.com

Running a business in the Gatwick Diamond means managing a hundred competing priorities Fire safety usually sits quietly in the background inspections done, certificates filed, job ticked off Until something changes

A refurbishment A new tenancy A scaling operation An enforcement visit you weren't expecting.

As Gatwick's expansion accelerates growth across the region more hotels, more logistics, more commercial development the pace of that change is only going to increase. And with it, the gaps that open up between what businesses assume is covered and what actually is

I run Pyrotec Fire Protection a specialist business with a team of engineers

If you're at a Diamond event and there's a question you've been meaning to ask, come and find me

www.pyrotec.co.uk

Steve Cooley

The search to close the skills gap in Surrey and Sussex

The Gatwick Diamond has long attracted a strong and diverse workforce, supported by major employers, a culture of innovation, and its proximity to London This has helped the region remain relatively stable, even during periods of economic uncertainty However, a growing skills gap bubbles under the surface, a generation of workers who want to work, but haven’t got the necessary skills to meet local recruitment demands.

There is high demand in the area for career veterans to make the jump to education With vacancies across aviation, construction, digital and engineering, there is opportunity to bring widespread industry knowledge into the classroom and help close the skills gap in the region

Teaching and assessing qualifications are available at a range of levels and can often be completed within a relatively short timeframe. For those considering a career change, further education offers a route to apply existing skills in a different context, including supporting the development of future workers To learn more about your route into an education role, visit East Surrrey College’s Teacher Training Academy.

www.esc.ac.uk

Singapore Airlines Increases Flight Frequency from London Gatwick

From 31 March 2026, Singapore Airlines will expand its services from London Gatwick to Singapore with three additional afternoon services to complement its daily morning flight This will increase frequencies to 10

The

Hidden Cost of the Accidental Manager: Why Leadership is a Skill, Not a Title

Kay Gunn

Why timing matters more than ever in business survival

By Nick Stockley, litigation and dispute resolution partner, Mayo Wynne Baxter

Administration is rarely a sudden event - it is the culmination of decisions and, at times, hesitation playing out over an extended period.

Businesses do not collapse without warning. In these situations, the direction of travel often becomes clear well before the point at which it enters the public domain.

Nick Stockley

Over recent months, I have commented on several highprofile administrations covered by national outlets including the BBC, The Guardian, The Sun and LBC, and while the businesses involved have operated across very different sectors, the same underlying pressures and patterns have emerged with notable consistency

In retail, the shift in consumer behaviour has been both sustained and structural, with reduced footfall, the continued growth of online purchasing, and persistent cost pressures reshaping the commercial landscape

For businesses operating with long-term lease commitments, this has created a particularly difficult position, where fixed obligations remain in place despite a fundamental change in trading conditions.

Some locations will continue under new ownership, particularly where they retain strong underlying value, while others - especially in town centres - are increasingly likely to be repurposed, often attracting interest from residential developers, with a corresponding impact on employment and local economies.

The consequences of that trajectory extend well beyond the business itself Once administrators are appointed, directors relinquish control, investors often see their positions eroded or lost, and suppliers and creditors are left to absorb losses that can in turn place strain on their own operations

The effect is rarely contained, and it is not uncommon to see financial distress move through the supply chain in successive stages

It is within this environment that disputes most commonly arise, as financial pressure brings increased scrutiny and with it, a sharper focus on the decisions taken in the period leading up to insolvency

Mediation and other forms of structured resolution can often provide a more effective and proportionate way of reaching an outcome, particularly where there is value in preserving commercial relationships or limiting further disruption.

The increased visibility of administrations in the media has brought a greater degree of attention to these issues and has contributed to a more open discussion around financial distress and the decisions that precede it That shift is a positive one, particularly where it encourages earlier engagement and a more realistic assessment of risk.

Economic pressure across a few sectors is unlikely to ease in the immediate term, and businesses will continue to face difficult decisions as a result Those that are able to respond with clarity and at the right time are more likely to retain control over outcomes, even in challenging circumstances

nstockley@mayowynnebaxter.co.uk

A toxic workplace

The days when an employee remains at a firm for their entire working life are rare these days Sometimes they leave a workplace due to pay, their working conditions or sometimes it is due to an issue with a colleague Often, the employer loses one or both members of staff due to the breakdown of the working relationship between the two employees, which could lead to personality

Kristy Underwood

personality clashes, allegations of bullying, harassment, communication difficulties or perceived discrimination That can result in a loss to the employer in relation to time spent recruiting and training a replacement, and an impact on staff morale

Potentially, the employer may find a claim is brought against them in the employment tribunal, which can be time-consuming and costly

So, what can be done to avoid matters escalating?

It is possible to deal with issues between employees through workplace mediation, where a qualified impartial workplace mediator meets with both employees in a neutral and confidential environment voluntarily with a view to facilitating discussions with the aim of the employees resolving interpersonal issues and finding a resolution with the help of the mediator

Where successful, workplace mediation can lead to staff retention, an improved working environment and the employees committing to acknowledge and change any behaviour which has caused an issue, often where such behaviour has never been intended to cause difficulties

Timeframe and cost of workplace mediation

Workplace mediation is typically completed within a half day (9–1) or a full day, depending on the circumstances It is offered on a fixed fee basis by a qualified mediator, often in the region of £1,500 + VAT for a half day, which includes all preparatory work

It can provide a structured way to address issues early, before they develop into more formal disputes.

www.stevensdrake.com

AI for SMEs: Where It Genuinely Saves Time, and Where It Is Still Mostly Theatre

Almost every business leader is hearing the same message right now: you need an AI strategy Vendors are relabelling old features, new tools appear weekly, and the demos are polished enough to create a creeping sense that if you are not "doing AI", you are already behind.

That pressure is real But, so is the risk of confusing the appearance of innovation with actual operational improvement

I have worked in artificial intelligence for 30 years, including as a Senior Research Fellow in Computational Artificial Intelligence at the University of Sussex One pattern has remained stubbornly consistent: useful systems tend to look quite ordinary Unhelpful ones tend to look impressive.

AI earns its place when it is anchored in a real workflow Drafting first responses to common enquiries Turning

Malcolm McIlhagga

Turning meeting notes into action lists. Routing support tickets Converting rough notes into structured CRM records In each case, it handles the first 60 to 80 per cent of the task (the mechanical part) while people still apply judgment where it matters.

We recently added AI functionality to a logistics system for EP Global Logistics Instead of navigating multiple

multiple screens to find a delayed shipment or a stock discrepancy, users can ask a question and based on live data receive a structured answer This means less time navigating and more time acting

Where does AI go wrong? Usually, when businesses start with the technology rather than the task eEnhancing a confused process with Ai is a bit like fitting a turbocharger to a shopping trolley it might move faster, but not usefully

For most, the best results will come from practical uses in their well understood workflows The businesses that benefit most will not be the ones shouting about AI They will be the companies using it quietly to remove friction, reduce admin, and make their operations run more smoothly. Full article here

www.tekate.co.uk

The quiet power behind seamless guest experiences at Sunborn London

In hospitality, the moments that matter don’t come from systems, they come from people But behind every seamless experience is an operational backbone that either empowers staff or gets in their way

At Sunborn London, the UK’s only luxury yacht hotel, that balance is put to the test Operating within the confines of a docked vessel means limited space, complex guest flows, and constant coordination across teams For years, disconnected systems created friction, slowing check-ins, duplicating work, and leaving gaps between departments

That changed with a move to a fully integrated, mobile-first environment, supported by solutions such as Shiji’s unnecessary

Daylight PMS By removing unnecessary steps and connecting teams in real time, operations became faster, simpler, and more intuitive

The impact is clear As Operations Manager Vasilis Giannios puts it: “We reduced check-in time by over 80%, from up to eight minutes to just about one minute with the new system ”

But the real shift goes beyond speed. It’s about focus When technology works works quietly in the background, spend less time navigating systems and more time with guests Arrivals feel effortless Service becomes more personal. The experience flows.

This points to a wider industry change Success isn’t about adding more technology

Bringing STEM to Life in Crawley

Each spring, Memorial Gardens in Crawley becomes a space where curiosity thrives and STEM subjectsScience, Technology, Engineering and Maths - come to life for local families

Last year’s STEM in the Park event, sponsored by Crawley Borough Council and London Gatwick and delivered by The STEM Hub, drew an estimated 5,000 visitors Its success reflected both strong community interest and the growing importance of STEM skills to the region’s economy

What distinguished the day was its emphasis on hands on engagement Families were invited to take part in a variety of interactive activities, from drone flying demonstrations to problem solving challenges designed to show STEM principles in everyday action. Exhibits highlighted how these subjects influence the world around us, helping young people link classroom learning with practical, real world scenarios

A central feature of the event was its focus on careers. Local employers, educators and training providers offered insights into the breadth of opportunities across STEM industries and the different pathways available locally Visitors could explore apprenticeships, technical qualifications and degree routes while conversations with organisationsincluding those operating behind the scenes at London Gatwick - highlighted what

what various roles involve on a day to day basis

By combining practical experience with meaningful career discussions, the event helped address common perceptions that STEM careers are difficult to access. It showcased the diversity of routes into the sector and underscored the opportunities available within the local area

Building on last year’s success, STEM in the Park will return to Memorial Gardens on Saturday 16 May 2026, from 11am to 4pm, with an expanded programme delivered once again by The STEM Hub and supported by partners including the new Sussex & Surrey Institute of Technology The event continues to champion accessible learning and exploration for the whole community

www.crawley.gov.uk

Crawley Innovation Centre launches free business events to support entrepreneurs

Crawley Innovation Centre is launching a series of free business events from its base in Manor Royal, Crawley, to help ambitious entrepreneurs grow their businesses.

Launching on 14 April, businesses can attend various free workshops and hear from experts on topics such as setting up a podcast, securing your intellectual property and sourcing funding opportunities In addition, there will also be joint events with London Gatwick throughout the year, thanks to a new collaborative alliance.

Alongside these events, the centre has also recently launched Work From Here Wednesday, enabling business owners, freelancers and entrepreneurs to work from Crawley Innovation Centre completely free for the day. Occurring on the last Wednesday of every month, it gives people the chance to step away from working from their spare bedroom or kitchen table and experience the benefits of working in a professional, collaborative environment

environment, connect with other business owners, boost productivity and join lunch and learn sessions Monthly lunchtime topics range from how to leverage AI in your marketing to building resilience

Situated five minutes from London Gatwick, Crawley Innovation Centre helps businesses at start-up stage, scale-ups or long-established innovative companies thrive and excel by providing a flexible and community environment through its modern offices and workshop spaces and provision of one-to-one business mentoring support Open 24/7 for customers, with free parking and electric vehicle charging points, it features 24 high-quality offices, seven light industrial workshops for prototyping, product testing and demonstrations

demonstrations, as well as coworking and hot desking spaces, meeting rooms and event hire space

More than just a workspace, the centre also provides a unique package of business support via one-to-one expert mentoring from the centre’s Innovation Director at no additional cost to businesses

To attend all events, including Work From Here Wednesday, visit www.crawley-ic.co.uk/communityevents

Startups to Systems

Get clear on how your business uses data Even small improvements in how you collect, store, and use it will make adopting AI tools far easier later. Focus on augmentation, not replacement Look for where AI can support existing workflows rather than trying to overhaul everything at once

Build adaptable skills in your team You do not need specialists in everything, but you do need people who are comfortable working

alongside new tools and changing processes

Watch where your customers are changing. In sectors like finance and professional services, expectations are already shifting Staying aligned with that matters more than chasing trends

Be realistic about constraints

Costs linked to energy, systems, and suppliers may rise as demand for infrastructure increases. Factor that into planning early

London’s advantage will come from how well infrastructure, skills, and business adoption move together SMEs that stay close to those shifts, rather than reacting late, will be in a much stronger position

www.spyro-soft.com

Why business shows drive business growth

Mike Monk

These events offer something you rarely find elsewhere: a focused setting where conversations happen naturally, introductions come easily, and new opportunities often begin with a simple handshake

brightonandhovebusinessshow.uk

How important are your international clients?

What the Fair Work Agency Means for us All

Mary Ewen

underpayment, capped at £20,000 per worker. Your business could also be publicly named

Most investigations won't target deliberate wrongdoing They'll catch honest mistakes such as holiday pay worked out incorrectly or small deductions that accidentally tip someone below minimum wage The FWA can even take a case to tribunal on a worker's behalf, whether or not the worker wants to pursue it themselves

One thing to act on right now: since 6 April 2026, you are legally required to keep holiday and holiday pay records for up to six years

As always, we're on hand to have a conversation if you would like to discuss in more detail.

www.mjvconsulting.co.uk

Are You Making the Most of Your gdb Membership?

Be sure to keep your company profile up to date too You can add information about your business, outline your services and ensure your contact details are accurate A well maintained profile makes it easier for potential customers and fellow members to understand what you do and reach out directly

is visible on the website and then automatically included in our monthly Diamond Community News email which is sent to over 2000 contacts giving you additional exposure without any extra effort

The dashboard has also been designed with personalisation in mind. Members can select the types of news and events they are most interested in, meaning your homepage is customised to suit your preferences and ensures you see the content that matters most to you when you log in

Why we won’t use AI on client work

‘Whether you are a human or a machine, creative work consists of a thousand tiny decisions But how does one decide if an element is good, funny, sad, witty or absurd? A I bases its picks on what’s most prevalent in its training data ’ Says Christoph Niemann in the Sketched Out: An illustrator confronts his fears about AI Art piece he wrote last year for the New York Times

He continues ‘Communicating emotions from person to person through writing, composing or painting is inefficient and inherently human This is what makes a love letter, a doodle on a sandwich bag and (some) paintings in a museum precious ’ We’d add:

1 Generative AIs are neither intelligent nor creative They’re simply huge caches of data that are referenced, collated and mashed together when prompted in an app You get out what you

you put in, so what if it takes the wrong message?

2 0 By their very nature, AIs are reliant on those stores of data That data needs to come from somewhere and datacentres are melting ice caps in its pursuit

3 0 Much of that data has been stolen from artists, writers, designers, musicians, programmers and other creators, without permission being sought, given, or any recompense

Not only is the artwork recognisable as AI, its use is taking work away from people. Humans add soul, creative sparks and sometimes happy accidents that lead to real, valuable outcomes

Quick, easy and intuitive to use, the member dashboard puts free marketing and engagement tools at your fingertips

If you’ve not explored it recently, it’s worth taking a few minutes to see what is available. Making use of the website is a simple way to maximise your membership and keep your business visible It really is a no brainer!

Click here to go to the log in page: www.gatwickdiamondbusiness.com

editing the final result is the road to serfdom.

We know using AI is handy at times, like when doing a repetitive task, or to start writing a difficult email But simply relying on AI to do the work without editing

To be clear: Grafica doesn’t use AI for anything we’re being paid to createand that’s the way it will stay

CROWNS VENUES ANNOUNCE FULL PURCHASE OF TOTTINGTON MANOR HOTEL

On 17 March 2021 the Directors of Crowns Venues Ltd, Helen & Steve Pomery, Philip Fossey & Jamie Kensett acquired the keys to Tottington Manor Hotel near Henfield They negotiated an entry deal securing a 5 Year option and fixing the freehold price with the balance deferred until 17 March 2026. On 11 March this year the Freehold was purchased in full transferring 100% ownership to Crowns Venues Ltd T/A Tottington Manor Hotel

The Hotel, now completely transformed and re-invigorated through enormous investment and vision has built up an enviable reputation within Sussex and beyond as well as creating the standalone TERRA Restaurant which is entirely focused on championing the best Sussex Produce, Wines and Spirits all from the heart of the South Downs

Since their arrival, the 12 Bedroomed Guest Accommodation has been recognised by the AA as 4 Star and they’ve gone on to be awarded numerous awards and accolades from THE BRAVO’s, The Beautiful South Awards for Best Restaurant in South East (2nd), Best Wedding Venue (Bronze), Gold Ribbon Good Food Guide, Opentable, has recently been featured as one of the Top 50 Restaurants in the UK by Opentable and received their first AA Rosette

Director Helen Pomery said “On the night of our 5th Anniversary we celebrated with 150 guests to announce our purchase was complete and we were joined by the local Sussex business community, guests, suppliers, friends and neighbours We are so proud, especially during this very difficult time for the Hospitality Industry to have got the required funding to complete the purchase of Tottington Manor and secured its future for years to come We continue to work hard and smart and thank all the guests, our wonderful suppliers and our team and look forward to many more happy years here in the heart of the South Downs National Park

www.tottingtonmanor.co.uk

Supercharge your profile at gdb's

Business networking events

Business networking events provide great opportunities for both people and businesses to build relationships, create connections and increase their exposure. They are an essential part of many growth strategies. A solid networking strategy is crucial to establish and nurture valuable connections, expand your reach, and ultimately drive growth

19 May 07 18 May May

14 May

Networking at Ease

12:00-14:30

Hartsfield Manor

Network and build a range of business contacts, whilst enjoying a delicious three course lunch at Hartsfield Manor.

Membership Meet Up

10:30 - 11:30

Freedom Works, Astral Towers

Join us every third Monday of the month for our Membership Meet Up! Whether you’re new to gdb, thinking about joining or an existing member who needs a refresher.

gdb Business Breakfast

08:30-10:00 Maldron Hotel Brighton

This event will provide a friendly, relaxed, and informative environment for local businesses to network and improve their business profile.

Connected Crawley

08:30-10:00

5 Floor, Astral Towers th

Connecting Manor Royal and Freedom Works to the Gatwick Diamond for a collaborative networking event.

May

June 10

June

Employment Early Bird Event

08:00-10:30 Birketts LLP Sevenoaks Office

Uncapped? Undaunted – how to prepare for the new unfair dismissal regime.

May Members Meeting

12:00-14:30

Europa Gatwick Hotel

Join us to catch up on all things gdb and join your fellow gdb members for another fantastic networking lunch. Kindly Sponsored by Menzies.

May Educational Seminar

11:00-12:00

Europa Gatwick Hotel

AI is the tool; People are the solution , with Helen Tuddenham and Jane Hames

Invest Crawley Conference 2026

09:00-17:00

The Create Building, Crawley

gdb are proud to partner with the Invest Crawley Conference 2026.

Joint Business Associations Event

18:00-21:00 Chequer Mead Theatre

Join East Grinstead Business Association, Burgess Hill Business Parks Association, Gatwick Diamond Business and Haywards

Heath Business Association for an evening of networking, collaboration and inspiration.

Membership Meet Up - On The Move

10:30 - 11:30

Town Hall, Reigate

June

18 June

The gdb Business Breakfast

08:30-10:00

Europa Gatwick Hotel

This event will provide a friendly, relaxed, and informative environment for local businesses to network and improve their business profile. With our guest speaker and a delicious full English breakfast.

June

Join us to catch up on all things gdb and join your fellow gdb members for another fantastic networking lunch. 26

June

June Members Meeting

12:00 - 14:30

Stanhill Court Hotel

Join gdb for a relaxed morning of Elevenses and Networking at Porsche Centre MidSussex. 15

June

Join us every third Monday of the Month for our Membership Meet Up - now on the move!

gdb AGM 2026

10:45 - 12:00

Stanhill Court Hotel

Join us for the gdb AGM 2026, hosted by Stanhill Court Hotel.

Elevenses & Networking at Porsche

10:30 - 12:00

Porsche Centre Mid-Sussex

gdb Welcomes

Membership of gdb will help you raise your organisation’s profile within the Gatwick Diamond and build your business connections.

www appleorchard org uk

www.bennytravel.co.uk

www.claritygrowthconsulting.co.uk

Apple Orchard School is a small secondary school near Horsham that provides a therapeutic environment for boys who have suffered significant trauma in their lives Apple Orchard is part of Polaris, one of the UK’s largest leading communities of children’s service providers that includes independent fostering and adoption agencies, Leaving Care services, Education and bespoke children’s services contracts Polaris has been working for over 30 years, working collectively to support the very best outcomes for each and every child in its care.

We are ambitious for our children and young people, families and staff, and believe in their futures

I am an Independent Travel Agent based in Horley I can book anything from flights, packages, hotels, transfers, cruises, car hire and Disney Whether it’s for your own holidays or business travel requirements, I can assist with whatever you need All packages are ATOL and ABTA protected I can also offer travel gift cards which can be used towards a holiday with me as rewards for your colleagues.

Clarity Growth Consulting provides professional services for businesses that are looking to expand their operations internationally by connecting them to clients, local ecosystems, supply chain, funding, partners and other professional services With more than 20 years of business transformation and finance expertise, we also provide consulting services to businesses that want to scale up, improve efficiency and profitability

We are focused on the United Kingdom, Singapore, Malaysia, Hong Kong and China. The sectors we have deep expertise are in healthcare, technology, advance manufacturing and finance. We aim to provide affordable solutions tailored to meet our clients’ specific needs

ClearSum Accounting is based in Brighton and works with professional services businesses across the UK We are not a traditional accounting firm We are a proactive financial partner for consultants, agencies, coaches and other serviceled businesses, helping owners understand their numbers so they can make confident decisions and grow. We go beyond compliance. We translate the finances, flag what matters and stay responsive when you need us Our clients do not chase us for answers or get passed between departments They get a dedicated team who knows their business by name and genuinely cares about where it is heading

Gatwick Diamond Business Awards

In a fast-paced, AI-driven world, standing out isn't optional, it's essential Designology creates custom marketing collateral and e-learning materials for B2B and B2C businesses and training providers. Everything built from scratch, unique to your business, your audience, and your goals Generic design blends in Strategic design that's aligned to who you are, what you do, and who you're talking to is a business asset One that wins contracts, commands higher pricing, and delivers learning experiences people actually remember Want to find out what strategic design could do for your business? Let's chat

www.dollopcreative.co.uk

dollop is a tight-knit pool of crispy-fresh, but perfectly seasoned web design talent Designers, writers, code crackers – the tip-top, smartest heads, hearts and hands in the business All herded into one place With a single point of contact oiling all the parts to make your life as easy as a self-baking pie This is a smarter, leaner and creatively juicier way of doing things More streamlined, less faffy and a damned sight better value for money.

Embrace AI Training specialises in generative AI training for SMEs, helping businesses adopt AI with confidence and clarity. Training takes participants from no prior knowledge to a practical understanding of the current AI space, focusing on how to build tools and AI conversations The approach is grounded in clear communication, hands on practice, and business use cases Training encourages teams to experiment, refine outputs, and apply AI as a communication skill rather than a technical discipline Find out how we can help today

www.emp365.co.uk

Emp 365 is a specialist electrical contractor supporting luxury hotels and highend commercial clients across Surrey, Sussex, Hampshire, London and surrounding areas We deliver high quality electrical installations, EICR testing, emergency lighting installation and testing, and tailored maintenance programmes that uphold the highest standards of safety, compliance and presentation

Working closely with facilities and operations teams, we plan and deliver works with minimal disruption to guests and daily operations From refurbishment projects to planned and reactive maintenance, Emp 365 is trusted for its precision, reliability and consistent delivery within premium guest focused environments.

Practical Solutions for Safer, Smarter Workplaces

Award winning expert risk management and health & safety consultancy for businesses of all sizes UK wide and GDB community

Anyone who has lost a family member through an accident at work knows the pain and trauma associated At H&S Secure, we work from a preventative standpoint (sometimes reactive is needed), getting ahead of the risks to your business creating bespoke action plans that fit your business

We provide consultancy for sectors including construction, manufacturing, retail, hospitality, and more enabling a safety-first culture which reduces risks, secures industry accreditations, improves employee engagement & drives business growth

www kaygunn com

www.lmi-uk.com

Install on Glass Ltd deserves the New Start-Up Company award for its innovative window insulation solutions Our sustainable, energy-saving products offer a non-intrusive approach to enhancing workplace comfort Utilizing advanced Japanese technology, our insulation effectively addresses overheating in summer and reduces heat loss in winter, fostering a more efficient work environment By minimizing reliance on heating and cooling systems, businesses can significantly lower their energy costs while promoting sustainability Our commitment to innovation and environmental responsibility positions us as a leader in the industry, making a positive impact on both businesses and the planet

Kay Gunn Limited is a leadership development consultancy specialising in developing first-time people managers to become confident leaders

Founded by Kay Gunn who brings 25+ years of senior leadership experience across professional sport, online retail, travel and aviation It’s all too familiar- a person gets promoted into management for being technically good at their job, and is then left to figure it out on their own. What follows isn't a performance issue, it's a capability gap

Doing nothing is very risky: disengaged teams; legal liability; high turnover and managers who are out of their depth Our approach is practical and grounded in real-life leadership, equipping managers with the skills and behaviours to lead people well

With 65 years experience working with >2 million people, LMI have developed a highly practical and comprehensive leadership development process - The Total Leader® - that enables organisations to develop the consistent quality and quantity of leaders to meet current and future business needs Focusing on four areas - productivity and personal leadership, motivational and strategic leadership - we believe great leadership makes all the difference, for the individual, the team, the organisation and the wider community LMI programmes have a full money-back guarantee based on tangible impact. We have a passion for developing young leaders through our associated CIC.

www.mensharelisteninggroup.co.uk

Menshare Listening Group is a voluntary support service for men 18+ in the Crawley, Horsham, East Grinstead and Haywards Heath areas

We help support men who may be experiencing a difficult or challenging time in their lives. We provide weekly support circles, professional guidance, and naturebased and social activities

Masculinity can often be the barrier that prevents men from seeking support Our circles prove this is not the case Every man is supported and listened to without judgement

Our vision is to see a Menshare Listening Group active in as many villages, towns, and cities as possible.

I am an Executive Coach and Leadership Development specialist with over 25 years’ experience across international organisations including Tesco, Asda, Apple and Haven I combine deep commercial insight with real-world leadership experience to support senior leaders in navigating growth, change and complexity Specialising in resilience, wellbeing and mental performance, I help individuals and teams enhance clarity, confidence and impact I work with organisations on leadership development and culture change, using evidencebased approaches from neuroscience and behavioural science. I am an ICFaccredited coach with multiple professional certifications across coaching, emotional intelligence and leadership assessment

www.orangutan.uk

www.shieldbuild.co.uk

Most businesses leave serious growth on the table Charities struggle to fund vital work Scale-ups stall before they reach their potential Stories go untold

Gatwick Diamond Business Awards

Orangutan exists to change that. Across five specialist brands - orangutan.uk (sales incentives that unlock channel performance), attain360.co.uk (growth strategies for scale-up businesses), extraordinaryengagement.co.uk (no win, no fee PR that gets you heard), extraordinaryevents.co.uk (events that move people to act), and community-action.uk (no win, no fee fundraising for charities) - we use 30 years of behavioural insight to turn frustration into results

If you’re a B2B business that needs marketing support, PBSM can help A strategic marketing workshop will help you realign your marketing activities and ensure that the time and budget you have allocated is working optimally Ongoing support from a Fractional Marketing Director will provide marketing leadership, strategic insight coupled with high performance, and the structure and processes to build your marketing success

Our full-service, freelance marketing team can run all your marketing campaigns Patrick has over 25 years of experience working with leading brands (NEC Europe, Motorola, Microsoft), scale-ups, and start-ups and will bring his experience to your marketing

Shield Build Ltd is a trusted construction and fire safety specialist serving Sussex, Surrey and Kent for over 12 years With over 24 years of carpentry and construction experience and more than 250 five star reviews, the company delivers high quality extensions, refurbishments and compliant fire door solutions. Working with homeowners, landlords, managing agents and businesses, Shield Build combines practical expertise with a clear, hassle free approach and a strong focus on safety, communication and customer satisfaction Services include fire door inspections, maintenance and installation, alongside full construction projects, all delivered with a professional and reliable service

Shiji is a global technology company dedicated to providing innovative solutions for the hospitality industry, ensuring seamless operations for hoteliers day and night.

Built on the Shiji Platform the only truly global hotel technology platform Shiji’s cloud-based portfolio includes Property Management System, Point-ofSale, guest engagement, distribution, payments, and data intelligence solutions for over 91,000 hotels worldwide, including the largest chains

The best hotels run on Shiji day and night.

Super Llama is a video-first marketing agency helping brands show up and stand out

Based in Surrey, they specialise in video production, creating content that’s built to perform across websites, social, podcasts and campaigns

They’re known for making the whole process simple and stress-free, working closely with clients to bring ideas to life

Their work includes projects with brands such as The Times and the University of Oxford

www pbsm uk

www.theprofessionalmortgage specialist.co.uk

The Mill Primary Academy in Crawley is a vibrant, community-focused school inspiring curiosity, creativity, and confidence in every child Guided by our motto “Forever Proud,” we celebrate achievements and encourage children to take pride in themselves and their surroundings From hands-on learning in our forest school to a broad curriculum and a wide range of extra-curricular activities, we nurture young minds to thrive today and lead tomorrow We also offer flexible school hire, including classrooms, a 4G pitch, an indoor basketball court, and a café - perfect for sports, meetings, and community events.

Joseph Akpewrene is an award-winning Financial Services Professional and Mortgage Broker with over 17 years of experience delivering strategic funding solutions to businesses and property developers

Specialising in development finance and commercial lending, Joseph works with both growing enterprises and experienced developers to secure the right funding, whether for new projects, refinancing, or raising capital

With a strong network of trusted lenders and industry contacts, he can access competitive and often exclusive finance solutions. His expertise lies in structuring complex deals, simplifying the process, and delivering results efficiently.

Known for his proactive, solutions-focused approach, Joseph helps clients unlock opportunities, improve cash flow, and move forward with confidence

Wingate is a values-driven employee benefits consultancy focused on doing the right thing for clients, colleagues, and the community. We offer a unique account management model; one adviser for all your employee benefits, supported by expert teams, ensuring tailored strategies and transparent, commission-free pricing With Investors in People Platinum accreditation and our own charity, the Wingate Foundation, we combine award-winning service with a commitment to making a positive difference

We can support you with workplace pensions, healthcare, protection, employee wellbeing and benchmarking benefits with your peers. We ensure your benefits are right for your business, your employees, and aligned with budgets and goals

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Diamond Listing Directory

Welcome to your Diamond Listing Directory

The gdb member companies listed below have a Diamond Listing in the online gdb Members Directory. For a full list of gdb members please go to Members Directory And contact us to find out how to enhance your listing and raise your website profile in PINK!

Accounting / Financial Services

Alexanders Accountants Limited

Benchmark Financial Planning

Carpenter Box

ClearSum Accounting Ltd

GC Partners

Geoff Dyckes Financial Consultancy Ltd

Hannah Ryan Bookkeeping

Kreston Reeves LLP

Menzies LLP

MHA Bakertilly International

Airport / Airline Services

Aircraft Leasing & Management

BA Euroflyer

London Gatwick

alexandersca.co.uk benchmarkcapital.co.uk carpenterbox.com clearsum.co.uk gcpartners.co dyckesfinancial.co.uk

krestonreeves.com menzies.co.uk mha.co.uk

alm-lease.co.uk britishairways.com gatwickairport.com

Architectural / Construction / Maintenance

Carnegie Group Ltd

CGA Design & Build Ltd

EMP 365

MCCOMB PARTNERSHIP LIMITED

Shield Build Ltd

Banking

Business Consultants

Business Support

AllumTek Business Advisors Ltd

Cotential Limited

Crawley Innovation Centre

Kay Gunn Limited

Morningside a Questel Company

OMNY

Rhabdomancy - Public Speaking

Soulful Journeys Limited

SVP Coaching

The Shared Humanity Group - Palladium

Environmental Services

carnegiegroup.co.uk cga-db.com emp365.co.uk mccombs.co.uk shieldbuild.co.uk

aipotential.ai jessyconsultancy.com

allumtek.com cotential.co.uk crawley-ic.co.uk kaygunn.com morningtrans.com omnygroup.co.uk rhabdomancy.co.uk soulfuljourneys.uk svpcoaching.com www.palladiumvaults.com wingatebs.com

cleankill.co.uk hsenergy.co.uk

Facilities Management

Incor Group Management Ltd incorgroup.co.uk

Food & Drink

Efes BBQ Restaurant

Stoves Dining LTD

Hotels / Venues / Events

Alexander House Hotel

Ashdown Park Hotel & Country Club

Brighton & Hove Business Show & Gatwick Business Show

Elite Venue Selection Felbridge - Gatwick

Gravetye Manor

Roffey Park Venue

The Grand Brighton

Tottington Manor Hotel

Wilton Park

efesbbqcrawley.co.uk stovesdining.co.uk

alexanderhotels.co.uk/alexander-house ashdownpark.com brightonandhovebusinessshow.uk theelitevenueselection.co.uk gravetyemanor.co.uk roffeypark.com grandbrighton.co.uk Tottingtonmanor.co.uk wiltonpark.org.uk

Insurance / Risk Services / Compliance Services

IT Services / IT Support

ABCOM IT Solutions

ACME UC Limited

CYBERAI TECHNOLOGIES LIMITED

Fluent Group

Insert Space

ITS-SRA

Shiji

Tech Results Ltd

Woodstock IT

Legal Services

Birketts LLP

Claire Nash Solicitors Ltd

Cripps

DMH Stallard LLP

Helix Law Ltd

Irwin Mitchell LLP

Mayo Wynne Baxter

stevensdrake Solicitors

Local Government / Public Sector

Logistics / Travel Services

Benny Travel

Bespoke Transport Partner Ltd

Cubic Transportation Systems

Gatwick Express

International Logistics Group (ILG)

abcom.co.uk acmeuc.com cyberaitechs.com fluent-group.co.uk insertspace.co.uk its-sra.co.uk shijigroup.com techresults.co.uk woodstockit.co.uk 01444

birketts.co.uk clairenashsolicitors.co.uk cripps.co.uk dmhstallard.com helix-law.co.uk irwinmitchell.com mayowynnebaxter.co.uk stevensdrake.com

bennytravel.co.uk transportpartner.co.uk cubic.com/transportation gatwickexpress.com ilguk.com

Manufacturing / Engineering

BSE3D Limited

Chess Dynamics Ltd

LB Enclosure

Marketing / Media / PR

Crescat Digital Ltd

Designology

Fresh Display

Gatwick Production Studios Ltd

Grafica by the Sea Snelsky Studios

Medical / Health / Wellbeing

Elekta Limited

Menshare Listening Group

Welland Medical

Office Services

Regency Grove Communications Ltd

SOS Systems Ltd

Treetop Design & print

Property / Planning Services

Arden Enterprises Group LLP

Vail Williams LLP

Recruitment / HR

AVATAR RECRUITMENT CONSULTANCY LIMITED

HR at Work

MJV Consulting

The Recruitment Lab

Training / Education

Chichester College Group

Copthorne Prep School

East Surrey College

North East Surrey College of Technology (Nescot)

Surrey & Sussex Institute of Technology

University of Brighton

University of Sussex

bse3d.com chess-dynamics.com lincolnbinns.com

crescatdigital.com design-ology.co.uk freshdisplay.co.uk gatwickproductionstudios.com graficabythesea.com snelsky.com

elekta.com mensharelisteninggroup.co.uk wellandmedical.com

01444 414241

rgcltd.co.uk sossystems.co.uk treetopdesignandprint.com

01293 665425

07894

07817 373804 07540 287033

01293 654378 07825 066491 01293 615455

arden.enterprises vailwilliams.com 07770 588857 01293 612600

avatarrecruit.co.uk www.hratwork.co.uk mjvconsulting.co.uk therecruitmentlab.co.uk

chichestercollegegroup.ac.uk copthorneprep.co.uk esc.ac.uk nescot.ac.uk sussexsurreyiot.ac.uk brighton.ac.uk/index.aspx sussex.ac.uk

01403 249888 01403 865486 Utilities

e-veezy.com