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Email News March 2008


MSE logo

Foreword

Welcome to the March issue of email news. This month we have a packed programme of activity around the region, particularly for companies looking to develop their international presence. Read on to find out more about emerging opportunities in Korea as well as visits by US trade experts from the Hampton Rhodes region. Next month also sees the increasingly popular Superyacht UK Tour of Excellence which offers opportunities for South East companies to develop in this growing sector. Finally we have details about possible changes to our future communications with you, we have proposals in the pipeline which we hope will give you easier and more effective access to our information and communications.


Posted 2008-02-27 20:47:56


Training and Skills

Marine Specific 3-D CAD Training Course

The Marine Regional Resource Centre (RRC), working with the Marine South East CAD Training Pool, is now able to deliver full CATIA training using their latest marine modules. The training on CATIA was set up following a request by Superyacht UK, who had identified the need by member companies for greater provision in this area.

The initial course was completed earlier this month at the Woolston RRC Centre with a full compliment of six personnel from three different design houses. The course covered the Fundamental and Advanced elements of CATIA and was delivered in two sessions, each of five days. There was a week's break between the two sessions to allow the attendees to practice their new found skills on this software, prior to going deeper into the integration of the CATIA marine modules and their various attributes in the Advanced session.

A survey was conducted with the participants to poll their ideas and thoughts on how the course was constructed, its content and its usefulness to their companies. All thought that the course was well organised and well presented. Those attending the course felt that the two five day sessions were ideal, given the complexity of the package. The learners were also unanimous in agreeing that the course content was pitched at the right level and that it was extremely useful in guiding them towards a much clearer understanding of CATIA, its marine modules and that of the package as a whole. Comments on the delivery and content of the course included: 'fantastic course'; 'a very high standard of training'; 'good College facilities', 'very useful in the working of CATIA and how to set it up and get started'; 'good value for money'; 'it may have been beneficial to spend more time with the design/problematic areas of yacht design'.

If you would like to find out more about further CATIA training opportunities contact the Regional Resource Centre on 02380 439 298, who will advise whether you may be eligible for a 70% subsidy of the full course costs.

Courses may be delivered in your own premises if suitable and a further course is under consideration for late March/mid-April. If you wish to register your interest for a place please contact the RRC on the number above or go to the website http://www.marinerrc.co.uk


Posted 2008-02-27 20:54:01


An Opportunity to gain an Insight into Modern Manufacturing and Inspection (at no cost to your company!)

Marine South East in collaboration with the Marine Regional Resource Centre (RRC) is offering free training to marine companies and their staff to give an introduction to modern design and production techniques.

We are offering an introductory one day course (MET01) or a more detailed three day course (MET02) covering 'An Insight into Modern Manufacturing and Inspection'. These will enable the attendees to learn how to improve the understanding and communication between design, manufacturing and quality assurance departments using the modern science of Metrology (measurement). It will also give a basic competency in CAD/CAM processes and provide the knowledge to identify modern techniques available to industry.

These courses are being funded as part of the SEEDA Training Pools initiative to assist companies to prepare for the use of advanced technology. There are a limited number of fully subsidised places available and to qualify you must be a marine company based in the SE Region.

Venues: MET01 - Marine Regional Resource Centre, Woolston, Southampton
MET02 - ATG Group (RRC Partner), Didcot , Oxfordshire

Dates: MET01 (1 day) - Mutually convenient dates to be arranged.
MET02 (3 days)-11-13 March 2008 and 25 -27 March 2008

For further details or to register your interest please contact David Rea by e-mailing david@marinesoutheast.co.uk or telephoning 023 80111597.


Posted 2008-02-27 21:36:11


Week dedicated to promoting apprenticeships

The first Apprenticeship Week of its kind was held from 25th – 29th February and helped to raise the profile of Apprenticeships and encourage more employers to use this form of training.

It also reported the achievements of employers and apprentices, with a BBC 'Breakfast' programme highlighting the work of Southampton Yacht Services and one of its apprentices, Alice Le Good. Alice is undertaking an Advanced Apprenticeship and was a Finalist in the 2007 Apprenticeship Awards.

In the last ten years the number of apprenticeship places has risen from 75,000 to nearly 250,000 and is planned to double by 2020, developing a highly skilled workforce able to compete in the global marketplace.

Several key events were held during the week including the Apprenticeships Summit 2008. This reported on the World Class Apprenticeships Review which was published on the 28th January and provided an opportunity for employers and trainers to learn of the dramatic expansion and extensive changes planned for the approval and management of Apprenticeships. The proposals include an Apprenticeship Matching Service, a reform of vocational courses in Colleges and the creation of a National Apprenticeships Service.

The Review highlights the role of employers are at the heart of the scheme. Special emphasis will be given to developing Apprenticeships for Small and Medium size companies (SMEs) and incentives are planned to encourage Employers to develop their workforces through the scheme.

Full details are contained in the Review publication, 'World-class Apprenticeships: Unlocking Talent, Building Skills for All' which can be downloaded from: http://www.dius.gov.uk/publications/world_class_apprenticeships.pdf and
a consultation on the proposals will be taking place until the 31st March 2008. Comments and feedback are welcomed from Employers, Training Providers and other interested parties with details of how to do this given in the publication.

If you would like to be put in contact with marine companies already operating apprentice training schemes to discuss their experiences please e-mail David Rea on david@marinesoutheast.co.uk or call 023 80111597.


Posted 2008-02-27 21:37:40


International Business

MSE supports South East marine presence in UAE

The United Arab Emirates’ (UAE) marine sector is exhibiting strong year-on-year growth, presenting substantial export opportunities for marine businesses in southeast England. Marine South East , in conjunction with South East England Development Agency (SEEDA), is opening an office in Dubai to support members’ marine interests across the UAE. In addition to a fully staffed office, MSE is offering members introductions to carefully selected prospective clients and the opportunity to have their own presence in Dubai, all for an annual fee of £10,000.

Dubai is set to emerge as one of the world’s most competitive maritime clusters and with its world-class infrastructure and effective government support has the potential to play a pivotal role in the regional and international maritime industry.

Dubai Maritime City also benefits from free zone operations, no corporate or private tax, proximity to customers and suppliers, potential for business growth in a rapidly developing environment, easy accessibility, a developed port infrastructure and a convenient time zone.

What will you receive for your investment?
Introductory meetings with carefully selected prospective clients
Prestigious office address in Dubai
Use of telephone, fax and office support
Dedicated website
Availability of Business Development resource
Notification of developing opportunities
Representation at exhibitions
Use of office for visiting executives
Embassy meetings on behalf of members
Full liaison with UKT& I
Trade conference presentations
Ongoing assistance with requirements after incubation period
Continuous and ongoing PR support
Access to legal assistance and language specialists
Access to understanding of supply chain and marketing opportunities
Networking
Attendance at specialist events
Advice on accessing investment from UAEAccess to collaborative working with other members

If you would like to find out more about this opportunity call John Ellis, Business Development Manager, UAE on 00 971 (0) 4 319 7680 or call Jonathan Williams, Marine South East Chief Executive on 02380 111 595.


Posted 2008-02-27 21:40:15


Emerging markets – Korea

A new market is emerging into the International leisure boating arena. In the current climate of the global marine industry with the focus moving from West to East, this is a unique opportunity for the marine leisure industry to become involved in a new and untapped market.

What makes this market of special and immediate interest is the potential for rapid growth in leisure marine activity following, de-militarization of the coastal regions, a strong and growing economy, and increasing focus on leisure spending. In addition, the land is available for development of marinas, the infrastructure required to support leisure boating is committed, and construction is under way. To take advantage of this emerging market why not exhibit at the 2008 Korean International Boat Show from June 11th - June 15th.

For more information see a presentation of the opportunities available at http://www.britishmarine.co.uk/docs/KIBSPPV42-02-08.pps (requires Microsoft PowerPoint or PowerPoint Viewer). For Europe and USA exhibiting and visitor enquiries contact: Andrew McCall, andrewmccalluk@btinternet.com, Tel; 02392 504938.


Posted 2008-02-28 18:51:00


Business Support Opportunities around the region

Packed programme for MareNet in April

April will see two Marenet events, the first looking at how companies can improve their business (16th April) and the second with a focus on skills and training (29th April).

The Business Improvement theme is being sponsored by Business Link and held at Northbrook College, Shoreham Airport. It will include speakers from UK Trade & Invest, SEEDA, Brighton University and Northbrook College.

On the 29th April, skills, training and the facilities at HMS Sultan will be on the agenda. This event targets marine companies suffering a shortage of skiled workers or those who are already or are looking to take on an apprenticeship.

More information will be sent out shortly, if you would like to learn more about these and future events email admin@marinesoutheast.co.uk. There will be more information in the April issue of email news.


Posted 2008-02-28 18:52:18


Marketing and Communications research for Marine South East

Marine South East has recently taken on 3 researchers to undertake an evaluation of the effectiveness of its marketing and communications tools. The research will include looking at how we communicate with our database of companies and individuals. It will include looking at the website, the email newsletter and the hard copy newsletter.

An online questionnaire will be sent out to you in the next couple of weeks, with questions looking at areas such as content, design, length, timing and effectiveness of all our communication tools. The questionnaire should take 5 to 10 minutes to complete and will greatly assist us in improving our communications to you in the future. This is your opportunity to have your say about our monthly email newsletters, the hard copy printed newsletter and the Marine South East website - please take the time to send us your comments.

If you have any questions about this email sarah@marinesoutheast.co.uk.


Posted 2008-02-28 18:53:26


City & Stone Communications to continue contract to supply marketing and communications

Marine South east recently renewed its contract with City & Stone Communications to provide marketing and communications support, including the monthly email news, printed newsletter and media relations.

City & Stone has developed marketing strategies over the past couple of years which has resulted in a higher profile for the organisation across the region and also nationally within marine media. They are now looking to take this a step further:

Helen Allies, Account Director at the agency commented: 'we would now like to develop MSE's profile nationally and ensure that they have greater presence within regional and national Government departments. The South East's marine industry is one of the most significant in the UK, and can boast some of the most highly skilled workers and innovative companies in the world.

'We are now looking forward to helping the region's companies communicate their successes and help Marine South East promote and raise further funding for the important work they are doing to support these companies develop further.'

For further information contact Helen Allies by emailing helen@citytandstone.co.uk


Posted 2008-02-28 18:54:44


‘Navigating the Funding Landscape Workshop’ - a review

Following the success of previous ‘Navigating the Funding Landscape’ workshops across the South East of England, the IAS in collaboration with Marine South East and the Southampton Enterprise Hub, ran a full-day funding workshop aimed at marine sector companies.

Held in the Southampton Science Park the event informed companies about the sometimes confusing range of funding options available and how to access them. The presentations during the event were delivered by experts who have successfully guided companies to funding over the past 5 years. This included current assessors for several major funding programmes and Finance South East.

Huw Edwards (IAS) led the workshop with a brief tour of the numerous funding options available to businesses, and presented some shrewd thoughts as to which funding options should be considered in different situations. The rest of the day looked at the various funding options in closer detail.

Peter Newton (IAS) gave a very informative presentation on government grants available for funding R& D projects. Peter’s direct involvement in the field allowed him to give extremely practical advice on how to go about making an R& D grant claim.

Representatives from Oxford Innovation’s investment networks gave fascinating presentations on investment networks and business angels, highlighting where these are positioned on the ‘funding ladder’ and in what circumstances this type of finance might benefit an organization.

Finance South East, who provides funding solutions and advice to businesses in the South East of England, also gave in-depth presentations on some of the funding packages they can provide.

Huw Edwards’s second presentation of the day looked at the EC 7th Framework programme in some detail. Huw’s personal experience as a panelist on this programme gave an insightful perspective to this subject.

Presentations from various tax experts helped delegates to unpick the complexities of R& D Tax Credits, and invariably a lively discussion followed this hot topic.

After lunch, Peter Newton helped delegates get to grips with UK Collaborative Programmes and how they may benefit organizations that may not have previously considered this approach. The workshop session at the end gave delegates the opportunity to ask more specific questions to a panel group of experts and discuss some issues in greater detail.

The workshops also gave delegates the opportunity to learn more about the work of other government funded business support services such as SEHTA, Marine South East, and the regional Enterprise Hubs.


Posted 2008-02-28 20:33:36


Events

solent forum

Profiting from our Past: The Modern Value of Maritime Heritage Conference on March 5 and 6 2008

Venue: University of Portsmouth

The conference highlights the value of maritime cultural heritage in the 21st century. Coastal areas are generally rich with heritage assets. They are the physical expression of our multinational past and are the building blocks of a cross community identity which can engender social responsibility, inclusiveness and a common sense of place. Accordingly, it warrants effective management.

This conference looks to determine how maritime heritage can be integrated fully with other sectors to ensure its benefits and also its future protection. The event will culminate with a field trip looking at maritime cultural assets in Portsmouth harbour from the land, sea and air (no plane involved!). This will put the issues discussed into context at a local level.

For further information contact, Solent Forum, c/o Hampshire County Council Environment Department, The Castle, Winchester, SO23 8UD. Direct Line: 01962 846027 Fax: 01962 847055. http://www.solentforum.org


Posted 2008-01-29 11:41:26


National Science & Engineering Week 7th – 16th March 2008

Discover the wonders of science and engineering and the mysteries of the Ocean and Earth at the University of Southampton’s Science and Engineering Week 2008. Supported by The Royal Academy of Engineering.

National Science and Engineering Week is a 10 Day programme of around 2000 events across the UK, celebrating science, engineering and technology and their importance in our lives. The programme is hugely varied with an eclectic mix suitable for people of all ages and abilities. The University of Southampton is celebrating this exciting occasion with a variety of events:

Science and Engineering Day - Highfield Campus
Saturday 8th March 2008, 1030am - 4pm

Ocean & Earth Day - National Oceanography Centre Saturday 15th March 2008 from 10.30am - 4pm

The University of Southampton invites all the family, young and old, to come along to these stimulating and fun events. Both days will be packed with fascinating activities, taking place across different Zones: Space, Technology, Life, Ocean and Earth, Transport, Light and Chemistry.

The events are free of charge and there is no need to pre-book. For more information on these and other University of Southampton National Science and Engineering Week events visit http://www.creatingthefuture.net


Posted 2008-02-28 20:21:43


Launch of South Coast International Trade Forum, 10 March 2008

Venue: Holiday Inn, Fareham

International Trade - exporting and importing - has its own set of challenges and excitement.

UK Trade and Investment in conjunction with Portsmouth, IOW and Southampton Chambers of Commerce, and Enterprise Europe (formerly European Information Centre) have listened to your comments and decided to launch a Forum to enable us all to discuss trade related issues. More details at http://www.southcoastitf.com

In answer to company requests to talk more to other exporters and importers, the Forum has set up quarterly events to hear highly qualified individuals talk on topical and relevant issues.

These events will also offer the chance to meet old and new faces, network, talk about plans, strategies and issues companies are facing and the opportunities continually presenting themselves around the world.

The first meeting is Monday 10th March 6 - 8 pm at the
Holiday Inn in Fareham.

The speaker will be David Tinsley, UK Economist with nabCapital, who will talk on 'The prolonged Dollar Weakness and UK-based SMEs'.
This covers not just the USA, but also other countries whose currencies are linked to the dollar. David's biography can be found on our website http://www.southcoastitf.com

Email info@southcoastitf.com to register your interest. Refreshments and food will be provided and the cost of this is £10 per person, payable at the door. Or you can pay in advance via the website - http://www.southcoastitf.com


Posted 2008-02-28 20:23:56


US advisers visit, 11-13March 2008

Venue: South East

If the US is a target market for you, you may like to meet up with a small group from Hampton Roads, Virginia, that will be visiting marine companies in the South between 11-13 March.

A physical presence in the US, however small, can be vital in securing long-term US business. The team, from the Hampton Roads Economic Development Alliance, are experts in helping UK companies establish themselves in the USA, and can advise on business costs, personnel, tax, property and many other issues. They are also connected with potential JV partners.

Hampton Roads is the region around the port of Norfolk, Virginia - one of the main hubs in the USA for marine industries and services of all kinds. The region has a substantial leisure marine industry, with the US HQs of Volvo Penta and Wartsila Lips, several boatyards and superyacht facilities, and many other companies including International Paint, Fuji Marine and the Cousteau Society.

As a port, Hampton Roads is second only to New York on the Atlantic seaboard. Maersk has just opened a $450 million container terminal, and CMA-CGM and Zim lines both have their US HQs in the region. The region has several shipyards, mostly navy-focused, including the giant Newport News aircraft carrier and submarine builder, a wide range of systems and sensors manufacturers, and a very large US Navy and Coast Guard presence.

If you would like to meet the team during their visit, or would like more information, please call Charles MacDowell on 020 7823 6003, who is organising the visit.


Posted 2008-02-28 18:55:31


EEZ Market Seminar will highlight latest business opportunities, Wednesday 12 March

Venue: London ExCel, Docklands

Are you looking to diversify into other markets, and have you considered the potentially enormous Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) and maritime security sector at home and abroad? Or have you already considered this but are uncertain how to start?

Then, why not come along and hear about the market, the Government support available, and about the additional marketing capability available to you from the EEZ Industry group. The Market Seminar will address a range of issues on Wednesday, 12th March 2008 at the Excel Centre, Docklands, London

We are a UK Trade Association dedicated to this market sector. Our aim is to enhance business opportunities for UK industry in the EEZ management and control sector by combining individual company strengths with UK Government support.

During the seminar we will show you how we can add value to your business and provide you with the opportunity to network with existing members, government officials, the trade press and other influential experts in this sector. The programme starts at 2pm and is followed by a reception to allow further networking and informal discussion.

To register to attend this event please complete the attached registration form and return it to Ingrid Correa i.correa@the-dma.org.uk by 8th March 2008. To cover administrative costs there will be a small charge of £30.00 to cover administration.


Posted 2008-02-28 18:59:15


Oceanology International 2008 - various events, Wednesday 12th March

Venue: ExCel London,

France and the UK contain many leading companies and research institutions in the field of ocean monitoring. This workshop is being hosted by Marine SE and the two Pôles Mer to present opportunities for international collaboration and financing.
The workshop will take place on the French naval vessel, Laplace, moored adjacent to the exhibition, and will run from 15:00 to 17:30. It will be followed by a larger drinks reception to which workshop participants are cordially invited.
Participation: 10 UK and 10 French organisations, mostly companies. No charge for attendance.

Workshop Agenda
- Introductions - each participant has 1 minute to introduce themselves and their organisation's capabilities in the field of ocean monitoring (30 mins)
- Briefings - short presentations by the three clusters to present priority topics for collaborative projects and financing opportunities (30 mins)
- Round table - facilitated discussions to identify areas of potential development into future projects and initiatives (45 mins)
- Networking - informal talks over refreshment, with opportunity for smaller group discussions and one-to-one meetings in breakout rooms (up to 45 mins)

Email:admin@marinesoutheast.co.uk for further information.

You are also invited to a networking drinks reception hosted by the French Marine Clusters, Pôle Mer Bretagne and Pôle Mer PACA, and Marine South East.

The reception will include briefings on marine cluster activities, and signature of a Partnership Agreement between the clusters. This agreement is the concretization of relations established between our innovative clusters over the past year. It will provide the opportunity for partners - from the business and research worlds - to develop Anglo-French links potentially leading to collaborative commercial, scientific, technological and R& D partnerships.

The reception will take place on Wednesday 12th March at 17H30 on the "Oceanology International" exhibition site in London in Room 5.

Please could you confirm your participation by mail to :
gwenaelle.prigent@pole-mer-bretagne.com
This invitation is strictly personal and will be requested at the entrance.


Posted 2008-02-28 20:30:38


Exploitation of Innovation and Technology in the Marine Sector MareNet event, on Wednesday, 12th March from 3.30pm – 6.30pm (including tours).

Venue: Anglesea Building, University of Portsmouth

Increasingly, collaboration between businesses and universities is proving a win-win situation for both sides with innovations in marine technology driving the sector forward. With this in mind Marine South East has teamed up with the University of Portsmouth and Business Link Hampshire & IOW to offer a unique insight into the capabilities of the University of Portsmouth.

As one of the CommercialiSE partners, the University of Portsmouth is well suited to hosting an event of this nature. Visitors will be treated to a variety of tours, demonstrations and presentations. This event is open to any marine company involved in manufacturing, design, high tech materials, and engineering, as well as entrepreneurs.

The University will also show the computer aided design suite, rapid prototyping systems, composites preparation and impact laboratory, composites and nano-test facilities and fatigue testing laboratory. To register for this free event please email your details to admin@marinesoutheast.co.uk or download the booking form from our website http://www.marinesoutheast.co.uk


Posted 2008-02-28 20:14:08


seeda logo

‘Creating the Healthy Workplace’ Seminars, on Thursday, 14th February and Monday, 17th March 2008

Venues: Priestfield Conference Centre, Gillingham, Kent (February) and EEF South, Station Road, Hook (March).

Sickness absence costs businesses time and money. Healthy and well motivated staff, mean a healthy business, reduced employee turnover, increased motivation, good customer service and competitive advantage.

SEEDA’s Social Dialogue Forum is offering companies the opportunity to learn how to develop the ‘Healthy Workplace’. The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) will be joining with ACAS to show the latest good practice for companies to deal with stress awareness and managing absence.

The events at both locations will commence at 10am and close at 3.30pm with lunch and refreshments being provided. There is no charge to attend and if you would like to register for either event then please contact John Ball, Social Dialogue Forum; Telephone 0207 4671349 or by e-mail mailto:jball@tuc.org.uk


Posted 2008-01-29 11:46:20


Opportunities in High Growth and Emerging Markets, on Monday 17 March from 8.30am – 2.30pm

Venue: Copthorne Hotel, Slough

If you are an exporter keen to grow your business yet further, you won't want to miss out on the expanding opportunities in high growth markets such as: India; China; Hong Kong; UAE; Brazil; Russia; Turkey; Malaysia; Singapore; South Korea and Japan.

UK Trade & Investment’s Market Specialists and keynote speaker Digby, Lord Jones of Birmingham, will highlight the opportunities and share their knowledge at this unique event. Highlights include:

• Round table discussions on each of the featured markets;
• Hearing about the experiences of a company working in a high growth market;
• Learning about the assistance on offer:
• An opportunity to network with other companies.

Places cost £50+ VAT per delegate and includes breakfast and a networking lunch. To book your place contact us on 08454 58 64 00 or visit http://www.uktisoutheast.com/highgrowth


Posted 2008-02-28 19:08:50


bnealogo

An offer to display company advertising and equipment promotion brochures for non-exhibitors at Dimdex 2008, from 17-19 March 2008

Venue: Dimdex 2008, Doha International Maritime Defence Exhibition & Conference, Doha Qatar.

DIMDEX 2008, the first dedicated Maritime Defence Exhibition and Conference to serve the Middle East and North African (MENA) region. The British Naval Equipment Association is the officially appointed sponsor for the UK Group. UK companies who are not exhibiting are nonetheless invited to forward limited quantities of promotional brochures to BNEA for distribution to visitors and delegations and for display on racks on BNEA stand at the exhibition.

Interested companies need to contact clem@maritimeindustries.org . The cut off date is Friday, 15th February 2008.


Posted 2008-01-26 22:19:18


Selling Skills for the Marine Industry – A look at new techniques, Wednesday 19 March 2008

Venue: Marine House, Egham

Being good at selling is a big advantage in the competitive market of the marine industry. That is why the BMF Training Department puts a lot of importance in offering you courses on this subject.

One of our selling courses, "Selling Skills for the Marine Industry" is for experienced sales people who want to identify that hidden 'X' factor that determines 'excellence' in selling. This course really is an excellent day out and you go away with many new ideas and an ability to look the selling situation from a different perspective.

Benefits of attending:
- Close more sales negotiations
- Become more effective
- Understand why you are good - your personal 'X' factor

Outline Programme
Relational Selling: What makes you tick?
What makes your customer say 'yes'?
Identifying customer types
Developing customer-focused sales strategies
Building customer loyalty
Closing the sale
Creativity in Selling: Thinking 'outside the box'
Overcoming objections
Problems solving
The Superhero strategy
The 'X' Factor

This course uses the Strength Deployment Inventory to assess your relational strengths and to examine the buying motivations of customers.

The next date for this very successful course is Wednesday 19th March 2008 at Marine House in Egham. The course starts at 9:30 and finishes appx. 16:30. The price of the course is £145.00 + VAT for BMF members and £220.00 + VAT for Non-Members, which is excellent value for a very good day's training.

Go to http://www.britishmarine.co.uk for further information.


Posted 2008-02-28 20:18:30


Events

2008 Marina Conference on Thursday 10th – Friday 11th April 2008

Venue: Marriott Hotel, Portsmouth

Organised by the British Marine Federation, the 2008 Marina Managers Conference is set to be bigger and better than before, spreading over two consecutive days in the historical naval town of Portsmouth.

The conference is an important date in the Marina Managers' calendar as it is an invaluable chance to interact with other members of the industry.

The key note address will be given by Derek Williams, creator of the WOW Awards, inspirational speaker and world-wide selling author of "WOW! That's What I Call Service". Other topics to be covered include Waste Handling, Marina Security, Workforce Development, CMM Best Profit Ideas, Health and Safety, and Industry updates.

If you would like further information or wish to register to attend please contact Deirdre Williams at the British Marine Federation; Tel 01784 473377 or e-mail dwilliams@britishmarine.co.uk


Posted 2008-02-28 20:15:04


A Business Improvement MareNet Event, 16 April 2008

Venue: Northbrook College, Shoreham ariport

Sponsored by Business Link Sussex, the theme for this MareNet event will be Business Improvement. Guest speakers will include representatives from UK Trade & Investment,
SEEDA, Brighton University and Northbrook College.

If you are interested in attending contact; admin@marinesoutheast.co.uk and visit
http://www.marinesoutheast.co.uk to download booking forms.


Posted 2008-02-28 20:51:52


2008 Superyacht UK Tour of Excellence - visit from international Superyacht professionals, 22 – 25 April 2008

Venue: Various South East and South West

Representatives from the international Superyacht sector will be visiting the South East, as part of the four day Superyacht UK Tour of Excellence taking place April 22nd to 25th. Importantly, the Tour gives UK businesses direct access to an international audience of prospective buyers and provides a tremendous opportunity for UK businesses to showcase their talent.

The Tour of Excellence, organised by Superyacht UK, an association within the British Marine Federation, and supported by UK Trade & Investment (UKTI) and Range Rover, will enable an estimated 70 UK companies to meet with the international delegates through site visits, exhibition showcases and networking dinners. Tom Chant, International Commercial Manager at the British Marine Federation explains;

"The Tour of Excellence is an excellent opportunity for British companies to network with potential buyers. The UK marine industry is a manufacturing success story, and this event provides a showcase for our industry. We know that this visit will result in significant orders for the industry as in previous years."

The delegates, made up of Superyacht Captains, project managers, yards, owners representatives and designers, will visit a number of businesses in the South East and South West including five yards, Fairlie Restorations, Southampton Yacht Services, Pendennis Shipyard, Devonport and Cockwells, as well as a number of equipment companies including Flagship Training, Oceanair, and Lewmar.

Similar events organised over the past four years have resulted in millions of pounds of business for UK marine companies. For further information on how to get involved please contact Tom Chant on 01784 223 642 or tchant@britishmarine.co.uk


Posted 2008-02-28 18:58:03


RCD Awareness Course – Are you up to scratch with the directive?, Wednesday 23 April 2008

Venue: Hatton, Warwickshire

BMF's RCD course just got bigger and better! Following on from the very successful half day RCD workshops organised by the British Marine Federation last year, this course has now been extended to a full day course, to cover the topic in more detail. With two full courses in February and March, we have added a third date in Hatton, Warwickshire on Wednesday 23rd April.

The Course is relevant to:
- All those with responsibility for the design and construction of recreational craft, for example: directors, managers, designers, consultants and surveyors;
- All those involved in boat building who are responsible for the supply of equipment to any new boat, including engine suppliers;
- DIY builders who wish to CE Mark their own boats.
- Importers of agents for boats built outside the UK

Detailed content:
- The background and legality of the RCD;
- Boat design categories;
- The detail of the compliance modules;
- The responsibilities of the Notified Bodies;
- The "Essential Requirements";
- The relationship between the directive's requirements and the use of EN/ISO standards;
- The details of the Technical File and documentation requirements, including "Owner's Manual" and "Declaration of Conformity";
- Annex 11 components;
- Post construction assessment;
- Exhaust and sound emissions;
- The BMF RCD CD ROM.

The next available date for this very successful course is Wednesday 23rd April 2008 at Hatton, Warwickshire. The course starts at 10:00 and finishes appx. 16:30. The price of the course is £99.00 + VAT for BMF members and £175.00 + VAT for Non-Members.

For further information on any of these courses, please contact Liv Whetmore on (01784) 223631 or e-mail: lwhetmore@britishmarine.co.uk


Posted 2008-02-28 20:20:32


Marenet event - Skills and training, 29 April 2008

Venue: HMS Sultan

Skills and Training and the facilities at HMS Sultan will be on the agenda for a late April MareNet event.

This event targets marine companies suffering from a shortage of skilled workers or those who take on apprenticeships. More information will be sent out in the
monthly email newsletter or email admin@marinesoutheast.co.uk to register your interest in the event and receive information as it becomes available.


Posted 2008-02-28 20:56:15