Have you got the Edge?

Photo: Darren Robinson

Front cover of the new edition

THE winter/spring 2016 edition of Oldham Business Edge magazine is out now and free to subscribers.

This is the third edition of the new quarterly A4 magazine from the Evening Chronicle and aimed at businesses and professionals. Its reports include a feature about Oldham Community Leisure's two new leisure centres in Oldham and Royton. Peter Howson, OCL's head of sales, explains how businesses, visitors and residents will benefit from the new venues.

The magazine also looks at smaller suppliers and contractors working with the leisure operator.
Elsewhere there is an interview Ryder & Dutton's Vicky Hindle, the company's training officer and social media manager who is well-known in Oldham's business community. She talks about her role in staff development and social media, the importance of building a rewarding career close to home and some of the things she loves about Oldham.

Another interview highlights Innovative Technology's Sean Dobson, a 24-year-old IT specialist, who talks about his work for the Derker-based company across Europe, South America and Asia, including his most recent business trip to China.

Another report looks at First Choice Homes' spending with Oldham contractors and suppliers. The housing provider spent over £22 million last year with local firms, and it plays an important part in developing skills and employment opportunities.

In another feature, Oldham College highlights its new campaign to get more employers to offer work placements.
Deputy principal Debra Woodruff and director of apprenticeships and business engagement Heather Green explain the benefits of placements for employers and trainees.

Other features highlight Grasscroft Group's land and property services. Founder Mike Coulter explains the group's specialisms which include preparing difficult sites for redevelopment and handling complicated planning negotiations

Another features highlights Oldham cardboard manufacturer Ribble Packaging's services aimed at retail, logistics and manufacturers to help them repackage returned goods more quickly and efficiently.

The magazine also profiles Keith Kennedy, new head of the corporate and commercial team at Pearson Solicitors and Financial Advisers, and visits recruitment agency Staff Oldham, There's a round-up too of all the latest news and successes from Oldham's business community.

Oldham Business Edge is free but subscription-based and sent direct to an influential readership. It can also be picked up at Oldham Library, Chambers Business Centre, Ryder & Dutton branches, Oldham College and University Campus Oldham.