UNPRECIDENTED LPG MARKET SHARE RISE

Industry stats have revealed that LPG is increasing in popularity in the forklift market place.

For the second consecutive month, LPG has outsold diesel and in June 2010(1), sales of LPG fuelled counterbalance forklift trucks took a massive 188 per cent increase over the previous month’s sales(2). BITA figures also show that monthly LPG sales have increased year on year since May(3).

The British Industrial Truck Association (BITA) retail delivery statistics are announced monthly, providing an overview of the UK forklift truck market and the number of products sold, breaking down market share by fuel type. Liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) powered forklift trucks now account for 30.2 per cent of all counterbalance forklift trucks sold in 2010(1).

Calor’s forklift truck specialist, Jim Moyes, says the figures come as no surprise as more and more operators realise the benefits of LPG. He explains: “The benefits of liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) in the forklift market have been widely recognised over recent years with all of the major equipment manufacturers now offering LPG models in their product ranges.

“LPG avoids the lengthy charging periods associated with electric trucks and, as a cleaner burning fuel than diesel, LPG results in less potential for oil contamination and reduced overall engine wear(4). What’s more, lower carbon emissions from engines mean that they can be used inside in sensitive environments as well as outside on more difficult terrains(5).

Highlighting the advantages of choosing Calor, the UK’s leading LPG supplier, Jim says: “We work closely with customers to identify their individual needs and offer a fuel solution totally tailored to their operation.

“LPG supply goes far beyond merely the supply of gas or the fuel price. Discussions with an LPG expert with the right technical capability can ensure a hassle free conversion to LPG as well as providing a package of ongoing technical support, safety assurance and training.”

Forklift truck specialists from Calor will be available on the company’s stand at IMHX later this year to explain face-to-face the benefits of running an LPG powered forklift truck fleet, as well as the unique advances Calor is making in the forklift market including; larger capacity fixed fuel tanks that can reduce downtime, Magnatract™ cylinder technology that eliminates the risk interruptions in your fuel supply and safety test ‘date stamps’ that are placed on every single Calor forklift cylinder.

Calor also offers certified on or off site customer training to ensure staff can enjoy the benefits of LPG safely.

A registration process has been set up to enable people to pre-organise a meeting with a Calor representative before the show. To reserve some time with a Calor representative at the show, please email askcalor@calor.co.uk with IMHX in the subject.

For more information on Calor’s supply solutions, visit www.calor.co.uk/forklifts or call 0800 121 7841.


- Ends -

Notes to Editors
(1) COntact kathy@connect-group.com with 'LPG Share Rise' in the subject heading to receive details of 2010 retail deliveries broken down by fuel type.

(2) All stats are provided by BITA in its Retail Deliveries for 2010 report. LPG retail deliveries in May stood at 182 and in June increased to 342.

(3) 2010 total retail delivery figures for LPG: May = 182 (up 5% on 2009), June 342 (up 67% on 2009) and July 240 (up 5% on 2009).

(4) LPG continues to be acknowledged as an environmentally friendly and versatile fuel alternative without compromising performance achieving a 95 per cent reduction in NOx emissions compared to diesel. LPG powered FLTs produce, 2,000 per cent less NOx, 2 per cent less carbon dioxide and up to 120 times less small particle (PM10) emissions than diesel powered fleets. Small particle emissions are related to health effects including increased risk of heart and lung disease and problems such as asthma. All figures taken from the European Emission Test Programme (EETP) 2003.

(5) Contact kathy@connect-group.com with 'LPG Share Rise' in the subject heading to receive a breakdown of 'How Calor Outperforms Other Fuels'

Higgs helps Phoenix rise

Leading regional law firm Higgs & Sons has advised a new start up business in Willenhall.

Phoenix Cutting Services, which is a service provider to the UK packaging industry, was advised by Richard Griffiths, a solicitor in Higgs’ corporate department.

Speaking of his work with Phoenix, Richard said: “It’s essential for new businesses to seek proper legal advice from the outset. Early consideration of potential issues and having well drafted agreements in place will provide security and will almost certainly save time and expense later.”

Scott Hilton, a director and shareholder of Phoenix said that Higgs’ advice and guidance had proved invaluable: “Richard supported us across the whole start up including helping with the lease of our premises, advising us on banking arrangements and guiding us on our business structure and shareholdings.

“One important part of Richard’s work was our shareholder agreement document, which provides a clear decision making procedure and an agreed means of resolution should there be a dispute. This should significantly reduce the possibility of a serious fall out which can obviously happen in business!”

Richard said: “For anyone starting a new business, there are many things to consider, from employment contracts to terms and conditions of business and protecting intellectual property.

“We appreciate that money may initially be tight for start up businesses, however we always look to agree fixed costs for any necessary legal work, enabling business owners to budget more effectively.”

If you are considering setting up a new business and wish to discuss the potential legal issues contact Richard Griffiths directly on 0845 111 5050 to arrange a free initial consultation.

CONNECT PR HIT THE HEADLINES

As the boss jets off to the sunshine state and our resident blogger soaks up some seaside fun, the powers that be have asked me to muse over this week’s events at Connect PR.

We’ve made sure that the wet weather hasn’t dampened our spirits by battling through to deliver some great news in both our professional and personal lives.

Richard kicked off the week by shaking off an arm injury to step-up to the office oche. The ‘master’ threw some fine WD-40 arrows, but still lacked the accuracy to topple ‘lethal weapon’ who continues to score heavy and finish like a tungsten pro. It wasn’t all bad news for the office joker though, as his love for nature flourished by nurturing and releasing an uninvited giant moth and stag beetle from the building.

The thought of basking in the Tenerife sun couldn’t keep Becki from sourcing a great venue to host HiQ’s Hero award ceremony. The Custard Factory, located in Digbeth, will welcome heroes from across the UK in November as Sally Gunnell crowns an overall hero and rewards them with £5,000 to spend on a local community project.

Lizzie continues to hit the back of the net with some colourful campaigns for the Johnstone’s Paint Trophy and thanks to her best friend will be whisked away to meet Ewan McGregor next week having won an Empire Film competition on twitter.

Meanwhile, Kathy continued to work her magic on a new business pitch and Zoe received hundreds of 3-IN-ONE ponchos and air fresheners to keep fans of the drip oil dry and smelling great. Sue also cracked the wonders of survey monkey to find out heavenly and hellish family driving experiences. So if you have some time over the bank holiday weekend, let us know your family driving habits by taking a few moments to complete the following survey http://ht.ly/2v5pt.

Until next time ...

WINNER RIDES AWAY WITH PRIZE

A man is celebrating after scooping a £100 worth of vouchers at Somerford Horse Trials.

Iestyn Lewis (30) from Congleton won the tack vouchers, after entering the competition at Crewe Volkswagen’s stand at the annual equestrian event.

The three-day event attracted over 600 competitors and over 2,000 spectators from the region, with significant funds raised for the North West Air Ambulance (NWAA).

Somerford Park’s co-owner, Simon King, said: “The horse trials were a complete success and we have raised a healthy amount of money for the NWAA, which will help keep the helicopter operational.”

Competition winner Iestyn, said: “I can’t believe I’ve won. I’ll be spending the vouchers on some new riding gear and look forward to trying it out.”

Crewe Volkswagen’s brand manager, Ken Potter said: “The horse trials were a great day out and we’re delighted with the huge amount raised for the NWAA.

“As a business it’s important we support local events like the horse trials. Congratulations to Iestyn for winning the vouchers.”

MOTORISTS GRIPPED BY CHARITABLE SUPPORT

The Royal National Lifeboat Institution (RNLI) is set to receive a boost to its fundraising efforts thanks to global tyre giant Goodyear.

Throughout September any motorist purchasing a set of four OptiGrip tyres will see £10 go to the lifesaving charity. For every individual tyre sold a £2.50 payment will be made. The money raised will go towards the RNLI Beach Safety Programme, of which Goodyear is the main sponsor.

Michelle Fisher, Goodyear’s brand manager, said: “As experts in safety and innovation, we are committed to supporting lifesaving organisations to help maintain their already high standards, and the RNLI is of no exception.

“For over three years, we have been championing the work of the charity by contributing over £130,000. Our focus has always been on safety through innovation and the OptiGrip tyre certainly exemplifies this statement.”

Becky Higgin, RNLI corporate partnership manager, added: “The donation made through the sale of OptiGrip tyres will go towards the RNLI Beach Safety Programme – providing important beach safety advice to help keep people safe at the seaside. We thank Goodyear for this initiative and look forward to extending our relationship with them.”

The OptiGrip tyre, with Smartwear Technology, reveals new tread as it wears to ensure high levels of performance are delivered throughout its life. Even after 18,000 miles, it gives a 20%, or 11 metres, shorter braking distance in the wet than other leading tyres.

For more information on Goodyear and its safety partnership with the RNLI, visit www.goodyear.co.uk.

ENDS

News release issued on behalf of Goodyear by Connect PR

For further information call Lee Southen on 01902 714 957 or email lee@connect-group.com

HiQ Academy delivers investment in 500 people

The HiQ fast fit network has bucked an industry trend in emphatic fashion, as over 500 bespoke training courses have been booked in the first half of the year alone.

The HiQ Training Academy is reinforcing its support for its franchisees and their staff, while reversing the results of a recent fast fit industry report, which observed a 12 per cent decrease in industry training over the past two years.

HiQ’s Academy provides a personal development plan for each employee, supporting them to develop their skills in technical competencies and customer facing skills.

The training programme is further evidence of the support provided through HiQ’s partnership-led franchise model and also operates independently as a separate NVQ training programme for tyre technicians.

HiQ Operations Manager, Farrell Dolan said: “We have never had so many business owners and technicians signed up for our Academy. We are delighted to be bucking a national industry trend.”

“The implementation of our franchise model has been supported with a detailed infrastructure that supports growth and rewards performance”.

“Our Academy is just one example of the continued support that we provide, and we are delighted that it is performing so well and meeting the needs of our franchisees.

Petra Peers , HiQ Academy Co-ordinator stated “The Academy supports the HiQ vision of delivering an exceptional customer experience. It is a unique undertaking within the industry and sets HiQ apart as a leading provider of bespoke, dedicated training and a true investor in its people.”

The Academy delivers over 40 bespoke training courses covering business & Personnel development, Technical, Systems, NVQ Qualifications and Health and Safety legislations.

Petra continued “At HiQ we are passionate about training. We believe that it is what makes the difference in delivering the best customer experience in the fast fit industry.”

Optimo Care Group acquire WarrenCare Ltd

Leading West Midlands law firm Higgs & Sons, has assisted Optimo Care Group to acquire the entire issued share capital of WarrenCare Ltd, the largest provider of homecare and support services in Sefton, Merseyside.

WarrenCare Ltd is a long established homecare provider in the North West, delivering services to around 500 people and employing over 200 highly trained care staff to deliver a wide range of services across a number of locations including Maghull, Formby, Crosby and Sefton.

WarrenCare provides service care for older people, children and families, people with learning disabilities and supported living.

The strategic acquisition firmly establishes Optimo Care Group as a provider of high quality care services in the North West.

Commenting on the acquisition, Richard Walker, Chief Executive of Optimo Care Group said: “This is a great service and we are thrilled that the founders felt we were the right people to take the business forward. The whole team at WarrenCare is passionate about delivering high quality care as are we. As a business we are expected to provide the highest standard of professionalism, service and customer care and we expect the same from our advisers. Higgs & Sons continues to exceed our expectations in these areas. The legal assistance given by partner Nick Taylor and the team at Higgs & Sons was second to none and we look forward to working with them again as we deliver our plans for expansion and further acquisition."

Nick Taylor, head of Higgs & Sons’ corporate department said: “: “Having specialist expertise and experience in the healthcare and domiciliary care sectors meant we could offer specific advice and a tailored but efficient service to Optimo. It was a pleasure working with Richard and we look forward to helping him and his team grow the business in the near future.”