Sussex Business Presented with Kings Award for Breakthrough Hearing Tool, Calmer

Sussex-based technology company, Flare Audio, were presented with The King’s Award for Enterprise today, for their breakthrough stress-relieving product Calmer.

The company have been helping millions of people across the globe deal with stress caused by uncomfortable sound, with their clever in-ear product.  Having been selected to receive The King’s Award for Enterprise in the Innovation category, today saw the official presentation, which took place at the company’s Lancing HQ.

His Majesty’s Lord-Lieutenant of West Sussex, Lady Emma Barnard, presented Co-CEO’s Davies and Naomi Roberts with their Award and certification, following a tour of the business’s premises and talk through Flare’s fascinating journey.

Employees and guests then moved on to the formal presentation, followed by a reception, where guests included acclaimed Producer Chris Kimsey (Rolling Stones), MP for East Worthing & Shoreham, Tom Rutland, Chief Executive of the Worthing and Adur Chamber of Commerce, Tracie Davey and Managing Director of MDHUB, Fiona Shafer.

The King’s Awards are a globally recognised mark of achievement, honouring outstanding UK businesses. Flare was one of just 46 companies recognised this year in the Innovation category. The accolade focusses on the company’s unique breakthrough product, Calmer; a small silicone in-ear device that reduces stress from annoying and uncomfortable noises without blocking sound - and avoiding the isolation caused by ear plugs.  

Calmer works by altering the ear's internal geometry to soften high-frequency sounds, providing relief for everything from noise from busy places, eating sounds and family hecticness, to providing often life-changing benefits for those with sound sensitivities, including those associated with autism or ADHD. The company has sold over 2 million pairs across 186 countries.

Flare’s Product Inventor and Co-Founder, Davies Roberts, attended a Royal Reception at Windsor Castle hosted by His Majesty The King in June 25, where he got to discuss Calmer with His Majesty and presented him with his own pair.  Today’s ceremony was a formal presentation of the award and Grant of Appointment, by The King’s personal representative, the Lord-Lieutenant.

“I can’t express how humbled I am that one of my inventions has been recognised by the King,” said Flare’s Davies Roberts. “When we founded Flare, we had a clear mission to develop meaningful sound technologies. We started by redesigning loudspeakers and had no idea that our constant innovation and R&D would lead us to creating products that help calm our response to stressful noises. We’re honoured for Flare to receive this award today from Lady Emma, being recognised for an invention that is making a difference in the world is what every inventor dreams of.”

Employing just 19 people, Flare was founded in 2007 and has made several breakthroughs in the world of consumer audio technology, particularly in its mission to minimise distortion and deliver sound in its truest form. The company has gained support from big name artists and producers for its award-winning, high-clarity earphone technology, including broadcaster and music lover Stephen Fry, Producer Tony Visconti and BBC DJ Chris Hawkins.

The King’s Award programme is now in its 59th year. Recipients are able to use the esteemed King’s Awards Emblem for the next five years.

QUOTES:

‘I'm absolutely delighted that Flare Audio is receiving this very prestigious Award.  All nominations for The King’s Award for Enterprise are very rigorously assessed, so this is a well-deserved recognition of the company’s tremendous achievement in developing Calmer, a truly inspired and imaginative innovation that is making a real difference to the lives of many people.  It is a joy and a privilege for me to present the Award, on behalf of His Majesty The King, and my heartiest congratulations go to everyone concerned.’

Lady Emma Barnard, HM Lord-Lieutenant of West Sussex

“Flare is an incredible local success story. Listening to their products transformed sound for me; hearing all the individual layers of the music was like being in the room with the orchestra. The King’s Award is a tremendous achievement and it’s great to see an amazing local business recognised in this way.”

Tom Rutland, MP for East Worthing & Shoreham

“Worthing & Adur Chamber are absolutely delighted to celebrate Flare Audio’s Kings Award. Flare are an incredible local business and the most extraordinary innovators. We’re so proud to have Davies and Naomi as members and as part of our local business community. Keep doing what you’re doing and we look forward to what’s next!”

Tracie Davey, Chief Executive of the Worthing and Adur Chamber of Commerce

“As long-term members of MDHUB, we are beyond thrilled at Flare Audio being awarded this prestigious award. Davies, Naomi and their team thoroughly deserve this recognition for their ground-breaking innovation Calmer, that is changing people’s lives. Well done!”

Fiona Shafer, Managing Director of MDHUB

“Hard work, an innovative approach to how we listen to the sound around us and an enduring belief in saving our ears has led to this amazing achievement by Team Flare. Inspirational.”
Chris Kimsey, Producer (Rolling Stones)

www.flareaudio.com
https://www.gov.uk/kings-awards-for-enterprise.

Pilbeam Construction builds better lives in Rustington retirement village.

Elderly residents at a sheltered housing complex in Rustington are getting together more frequently after a modern community hall was completed by Pilbeam Construction.

Littlehampton and Rustington Housing Society said since the hall was officially opened residents have been leading busier social lives, attending quizzes, film nights and some even had their own Christmas celebrations in the space.

The original 1970s communal building had reached the end of its life and was replaced by the award-winning Booker Hall, which features sustainable design, vaulted ceilings, large skylights, a fully equipped kitchen and ample space for events.

Sussex contractor Pilbeam delivered the scheme alongside architects Studio Scott Taylor for owner Littlehampton and Rustington Housing Society, which said the new facilities are also providing an events space for the local community groups.

The scheme was highly commended in the Sussex Heritage Trust Awards 2025 in the public and community category.

Alan Corbett, managing director of Pilbeam Construction, said: “We worked closely with Littlehampton and Rustington Housing Society to ensure a smooth process and a positive experience for everyone.

“It’s great to hear how well used the hall has been since opening and that it’s helped to create a much stronger sense of community for residents who are enjoying socialising in a modern and brighter space.”  

The project included the demolition of an outdated communal hall, laundrette and office facilities and replacing them with a Cross-Laminated Timber (CLT) framed hall, a modern laundrette, offices and new flats, all with sustainable design at their core.

The new structures are energy efficient and purpose built, providing a warm, welcoming and modern design which is tailored for residents, the wider community and employees.

Next to the hall, the laundrette offers a practical yet inviting environment, complete with a courtyard that allows for natural drying in good weather and a social space for residents located at the heart of the site.

The timber frame and glue-laminated beams lean into the sustainable feel of the whole complex.

Locally sourced flint, an element of locally sourced bricks and a zinc roof with concealed gutters ensure the buildings are not only visually appealing, but also environmentally sound.

Emily Scott, director of Studio Scott Taylor, the project’s architectural firm, said: “From the outset we worked closely with the client team to nurture a project that incorporates their specific needs & creates welcoming spaces for staff and residents.

“This project seamlessly integrates modern and traditional construction methods, making use of locally sourced materials, resulting in a unique civic building that enriches the local community and enhances the lives of those it serves.

“The project has a strong emphasis on sustainability incorporating prefabricated timber construction methods, biodiverse planting and renewable energy sources. This includes solar panels, air source heat pumps and a natural ventilation strategy. At its heart, the project is designed to foster connections and promote the wellbeing of both residents and staff, reflecting a people-centred approach to architecture.”

The communal spaces are available for hire by the wider Rustington community, creating an additional revenue stream for the housing society and strengthening local ties.

The new office buildings provide employees with a collaborative workspace with large windows providing generous daylight and views to the surrounding planting. 

Sally Shepherd CEO Littlehampton and Rustington Housing Society said: “Since the communal hall officially opened, our residents have been holding a number of events which is making them feel less isolated. 

“For those residents who do not have or do not see their friends and family very much they can become lonely – the new hall is helping them integrate with others on a much more regular basis.”

Community groups and residents who want to hire the hall can find out more here: https://www.rustingtonhall.co.uk/

For further information visit: https://www.pilbeamconstruction.co.uk/

Kreston Reeves advise global events company on UK acquisition 

Kreston Reeves has advised Diversified Business Communications Ltd on its acquisition of Redbridge Events Ltd. 

Diversified Business Communications is a global digital media and events company. It organises and manages more than 150 trade shows across nine countries attracting more than a quarter of a million people every year. Its trade shows include Accountex, the British Tourism and Travel Show and HR Expo.

Redbridge Events has built a strong business based on its organisation and management of trade shows in London and Amsterdam, including the popular Workspace Design Show. 

The Kreston Reeves team was led by Corporate Finance Director Craig Dallender, supported by Mohammed Mujraba (Corporate Tax Partner), Zhen Bailey (Corporate Tax Senior Manager), Robert Nixon (Corporate Tax Senior) and Tanraj Bansal (VAT Senior).

Craig Dallender said: “Diversified Business Communications is one of the world’s leading events companies. Its events, including those in the accountancy sector, are extremely well regarded and attended. We are delighted to have worked alongside the team on another acquisition.”

James Stenning-White, Finance Director at Diversified Business Communications said: “This is an important acquisition for the business, building on our first-class reputation for delivering engaging trade shows around the world. I am grateful for advice and guidance from Craig and his team at Kreston Reeves. They have a clear understanding of our sector, with hands-on advice that helped secure this acquisition.”

Legal advice was provided by DMH Stallard and Fladgate.

Electric Storm Youth Launches Patron Consortium to Strengthen Future for Local Young People.

Electric Storm Youth (ESY), a charity dedicated to empowering young people across Lancing, Sompting and Adur has officially launched its new Patron Consortium to strengthen its advocacy and community reach. This initiative aims to create an influential network of high-profile champions for the region's youth and ESY is proud to unveil the first two members of this consortium: Tom Rutland Member of Parliament for East Worthing and Shoreham and prominent business leader Simon Bland.

Tom joins Electric Storm Youth with a deep personal commitment to social mobility and a mission to raise the voices of the next generation. Having previously met with the ESY Youth Forum to discuss local democracy, Tom is eager to use his national and local platform to raise the charity’s profile. Sharing his personal motivation, Tom said "Giving every young person the opportunity to achieve their potential regardless of their background is something everyone should support, and very important to me personally. I want to make sure that every young person in Adur has the confidence, skills and support they need to thrive, and I’ve been so impressed with Electric Storm Youth's work to empower young people across Adur. I'm delighted to be appointed as a patron to support them to have the biggest possible impact for the next generation.“

Simon brings extensive expertise in economic development and further education, alongside a clear and long-standing commitment to supporting young people. His experience and professional networks would add significant value to the organisation, particularly in strengthening external relationships, advocacy, and long-term sustainability.

With over 20 years’ experience in local government, alongside a range of governor roles across Special Educational Needs settings and Pupil Referral Units, Simon offers deep strategic insight and the benefit of a well-established and influential network. “I believe that young people need support to help them achieve their full potential. There is a lack of this support resulting in many young people being 'left behind'. I am looking forward to being able to use my knowledge and experience to help ESY deliver their mission.

The formation of the Patron Consortium marks a significant step in ESY’s growth. By bringing together leaders from politics, business, and education, the charity aims to bridge the gap between young people and the wider community.

Karen Jefford, CEO of Electric Storm Youth, commented “We’ve been very deliberate in creating a Patron consortium rather than appointing a single Patron. For us, this is about bringing together a diversity of skills, perspectives, lived experience, and professional networks that can actively support our ambition to grow and deepen our impact.

The role of a Patron at Electric Storm Youth is about advocacy, influence, challenge, and mentorship. Tom and Simon each bring distinct strengths and experiences that will strengthen our organisation, open new opportunities, and, most importantly, help us support young people now, laying the foundations for the future.”

ESY is currently seeking two additional Patrons to complete the consortium, looking for individuals who share their passion for youth empowerment and social inclusion.

www.electricstormyouth.co.uk

Hargreaves Welcomes Rivervale to Newly Refurbished Shoreham Warehouse Hub

Hargreaves Group, the private family owned investment and development company with a strong commercial and residential portfolio across the South East, is pleased to announce a significant new letting at Dolphin Enterprise Centre in Shoreham. Rivervale Cars, one of the leading vehicle leasing brokers in the UK, has committed to Unit A1–A3, following a series of successful lettings across the wider Dolphin Road estate in 2025 to Scout Shops, Crop Crop and The Dental Imaging Company — reinforcing the exceptional appeal of this thriving business location.

The recently refurbished 9,816 sq ft warehouse offers high quality, energy efficient accommodation in a prominent position, complemented by excellent parking and loading facilities. Rivervale’s new 10 year lease reflects strong confidence in both the building and the wider estate, which continues to stand out as one of Shoreham’s most attractive industrial and warehouse destinations.

Dolphin Enterprise Centre continues to provide opportunities for growing businesses, with a range of smaller units from 1,068 to 2,136 sq ft currently available. Larger newly refurbished units from 7,035 to 15,600 sq ft are also offered nearby at Dolphin Way, enabling Hargreaves to cater to a wide spectrum of occupational needs. The company also have prime trade counter and warehouse space available in Burgess Hill. For further information, please contact Hargreaves on 01903 777772 or via email at leasing@hprop.co.uk.

David Russell Smith, Senior Asset Manager at Hargreaves Group, commented:

“Dolphin Enterprise Centre continues to attract a diverse range of occupiers, from ambitious start-ups to established national brands. Our significant investment in our Shoreham warehouse portfolio means we are offering some of the very best accommodation in the market. We are delighted to welcome Rivervale to the estate following the comprehensive refurbishment completed in 2025, and we look forward to bringing more businesses into our expanding Shoreham community throughout 2026.”

Neil Chapman, Chairman of Rivervale, commented:

“Securing this unit at Dolphin Enterprise Centre marks an exciting step forward for our business. The building offers the high‑quality, well‑positioned warehouse space we’ve been actively seeking, and it provides an impressive setting for both our team and our customers. This move gives us the platform to elevate our operations, and we look forward to welcoming customers to our new facility once our fit‑out is complete.”

Hargreaves was advised by Stiles Harold Williams and Justice & Co. Rivervale Cars was unrepresented.

Five practical ways businesses can achieve affordable productivity by Fluid One

For many businesses, improving productivity often feels tied to major investment or large‑scale transformation. In reality, some of the biggest gains come from identifying hidden inefficiencies, strengthening the tools already in use, and simplifying the way the IT environment operates. When organisations focus on these practical areas, they often find meaningful improvements can be achieved without significant additional cost. With many businesses balancing growth ambitions against tighter budgets, knowing where to optimise can make a substantial difference. Here are five practical steps that help organisations stay productive without unnecessary spend.

1. Reduce supplier fragmentation

When IT responsibilities are split across several providers, delays and blurred ownership quickly follow. Issues take longer to resolve, and it becomes harder for teams to know who is responsible for what. A single trusted partner can streamline accountability, improve response times and keep systems aligned to business goals. Consolidating suppliers doesn’t just simplify communication, it often improves resilience and service quality.

2. Optimise your Microsoft licensing

As teams evolve, it’s easy for licences to drift out of sync with real working patterns. A simple review often uncovers unused features, overlapping tools or opportunities to simplify plans, improving value without reducing capability. Many organisations find this is one of the quickest ways to reduce ongoing spend while still giving employees access to the tools they need to work effectively.

3. Introduce AI in a structured, low‑risk way

AI doesn’t require a business‑wide rollout from day one. Starting with a small pilot group, measuring the impact and expanding gradually allows organisations to adopt AI in a controlled, cost‑effective way. This helps teams build confidence early, encourages practical experimentation and ensures investment is guided by real‑world results rather than hype.

4. Strengthen your security fundamentals

Preventable security incidents remain one of the most expensive and disruptive causes of downtime. Clear visibility, consistent controls and proactive monitoring help keep risk low and productivity uninterrupted. For businesses growing quickly, getting these basics right early avoids costly issues later and ensures security can scale smoothly with the organisation.

5. Ensure your IT support model scales with you

As businesses expand, their IT needs often grow quietly in the background. Regular check‑ins with a managed service provider help ensure performance, security and value remain aligned. A scalable support model prevents technology from becoming a barrier to innovation or operational momentum.

FluidOne brings these elements together through a single, accountable partnership designed to keep businesses secure, efficient and optimised. Support is available to help organisations unlock affordable productivity and ensure their technology continues to enable long‑term growth.

For further information, you can reach us through www.fluidone.com/contact, call us on 01273 384100 or email us at brighton@fluidone.com.

Baked Worthing shortlisted for Small Business Award 

Local firm Baked Worthing has been shortlisted for Britain’s best Bricks & Clicks business.

Wednesday 15 April 2026: Baked, based in Rowlands Road, Worthing, has been chosen as a finalist for the Bricks & Clicks Award at this year’s Small Awards. Now in its tenth year The Small Awards is a nationwide search for the UK’s greatest small firms, across all sectors. It is organised annually by Small Business Britain, which champions and supports the nation’s 5.5 million small firms.

Baked, founded in 2014 by Lauren Roffey, bakes and sells a huge range of brownies, blondies and brookies for sale in their shop/bakery in Rowlands Road as well as offering UK wide postal delivery. It has been selected as one of just eight finalists for the Bricks & Clicks Award that recognises small businesses that use multiple channels innovatively to develop their business.

The Small Awards celebrate the successes of Britain’s small businesses, with eleven different awards for small firms leading the way across everything from sustainability to digital adoption, and showcasing all types of small businesses including social enterprises, family-owned businesses, sole traders and start-ups.

“We are so proud to be celebrating a decade of the Small Awards. The awards celebrate the very best of the UK’s small business owners, who make such a difference in their local communities and are a key driver of the nation’s economic growth,” said Michelle Ovens CBE, Founder of Small Business Britain.

“The awards are a great opportunity to recognise the success and contributions of so many small businesses - Baked Worthing is extremely deserving of being a finalist, and we look forward to celebrating together in May.”

Speaking of her joy at being shortlisted for the award, Lauren Roffey said “To be recognised like this, on the national stage, is just wonderful. As so many people know, running a small business is tough going, and it feels great to see that our hard work has paid off.”

“I am very lucky to have a great team that work alongside me, and a loyal tribe of brownie fans that help keep us going and growing. I can’t wait to celebrate in May.”

Judged by a panel of industry experts, the winners of all categories, including the overall winner of the Small Business of the Year award, will be announced at an awards ceremony in London on 21st May 2026.

The ceremony will this year be held at Christchurch in Spitalfields London, with plans underway for a night of entertainment, inspiration and celebration for the UK’s greatest small businesses.

Kreston Reeves & Kreston ProWorks advise Japanese chemical company on UK acquisition 

Kreston Reeves and Kreston ProWorks have advised Washin Chemical Industry Co., Ltd. on its acquisition of JFBR Group Limited, the holding company of Foilco Ltd.

Headquartered in Japan, Washin Chemical Industry Co., Ltd manufactures hot stamping foils and specialty coatings and paints for products and consumer packaging around the world.

Established in 1987 in Greater Manchester, Foilco Ltd specialises in the marketing and supply of hot stamping foils for premium packaging, print and product decoration.

Kreston Reeves (UK) and Kreston ProWorks (Japan) worked together to provide their client with a seamless, multi-lingual service. They provided buy-side corporate finance, financial and tax due diligence support, combining local knowledge and global experience to ensure all stakeholders had the appropriate support and advice.

The strength of Kreston Global was further highlighted with Kreston Revicom (Italy) providing additional local tax expertise.

The team in the UK was led by Senior Partner Andrew Griggs and Corporate Finance Director Craig Dallender, supported by Sakshi Gupta (Corporate Finance Manager), Mohammed Mujtaba (Corporate Tax Partner), Karl Dillow (Corporate Tax Senior Manager) and Tanraj Bansal (VAT Senior). 

In Japan, the team was led by Kreston ProWorks CEO and Director Marek Lehocky, supported by Kazumichi Shimagaki. For Kreston Revicom, the team included Mario Wiel Marin (Partner) and Michele Zingarelli (Associate Partner).

Craig Dallender said: “Kreston Reeves and the Kreston Global network is well-placed to support businesses anywhere in the world looking to do business in the UK or to acquire UK businesses. We are delighted to have advised the Washin Chemical Industry Company on this acquisition and to work alongside the terrific Kreston ProWorks team. This transaction really demonstrates the strength of Kreston Global and our ability to leverage regional expertise and vast deal experience to provide our clients with high quality cross-border support.”

Marek Lehocky said: “Washin Chemical Industry Company is a global leader in specialist foils and coatings with customers around the world. Its acquisition of Foilco Ltd in the UK is an important step in its international growth, and we are pleased to have supported this transaction alongside Kreston Reeves. We also appreciate the role of Nihon M&A Center, a leading M&A advisory and brokerage firm, in bringing the buyer and seller together and enabling this successful cross-border transaction.”

Andrew Griggs, Kreston Reeves Senior Partner and Head of Global added: “This engagement clearly demonstrates the strength of the Kreston Global network and how our member firms collaborate seamlessly to deliver effective cross-border solutions for clients. I am extremely proud of the way Kreston Reeves and Kreston Proworks worked together as one team to successfully support a mutual client.”

Shin Nakamichi, Executive Officer, Washin Chemical Industry Co., Ltd, said: “We are grateful for the support provided by Kreston Reeves and Kreston ProWorks throughout this acquisition. Their advice was timely, practical and well-coordinated across Japan and the UK, which gave us confidence as we progressed the transaction.”

Legal advice to Washin Chemical Industry Company was provided by Nishimura & Asahi and RPC Legal. Foilco were advised by Lodders Solicitors. Japanese corporate finance advice was also provided by Nihon M&A Center Inc.

Southwick Community Centre set for major refurbishment

Visitors to historic Southwick Community Centre will benefit from an improved facility once heritage specialist Pilbeam Construction completes a crucial revamp in early May this year.

New windows and damp proofing, combined with internal and external refurbishment will transform the important community building into a more welcoming space.

Founded in 1945, Southwick Community Centre is one of the oldest community centres in the country.

The complex was originally derelict 16th-century farm buildings, including a barn, stables and piggeries.

Pilbeam Construction commercial manager Matt Hayler said: “It’s a pleasure for us to be working on Southwick Community Centre, a project that’s very close to home for our team and for me personally, as I live just around the corner.

“The centre brings so much to the local community, so we’re proud to support a building that plays such an important role for local people.

“With much of the centre remaining open throughout, we’ll ensure the work is carefully managed, clearly communicated and safely separated from visitors to minimise disruption.”

Work is due to start on April 1 and complete in early May, with specialist timber windows supplied by Ventrolla.

Pilbeam will work closely with the conservation officer to ensure the specialist windows match the existing ones precisely.

The £150k scheme will include installing replacement windows to the Barn Café and the George Porter Room, as the current windows are beyond repair. Drainage work will combat internal damp problems.

The café will be shut for two weeks to allow the work to be completed.

Southwick Community Centre manager Jayne Routley said: “Our centre hosts a vast array of activities with 50 different groups which bring our community together so it’s vital we provide a more comfortable space for them.

“We’re looking forward to welcoming our neighbours Pilbeam Construction and seeing their heritage construction skills at work.

“We know construction causes disruption to visitors, but the results will be worth the very short wait.”

Pilbeam Construction has previously worked for Adur and Worthing Councils, which owns the community centre, on projects at Worthing Town Hall and Worthing Theatres and Museum.

For more information please visit: https://www.pilbeamconstruction.co.uk/

For more information about the community centre please visit: https://southwickcommunitycentre.org.uk/

Expert advice on Closing the Skills Gap in Manufacturing and Engineering at Crawley breakfast event

Local manufacturing and engineering businesses will hear expert tips on closing the skills gap at the next meeting of METALL, the forum for manufacturing, engineering and technology businesses.

The breakfast event takes place on Tuesday 21 April at the Sussex and Surrey Institute of Technology at Crawley College. The practical presentations will be of particular interest for those businesses facing their most capable staff approaching retirement, new recruits arriving without the technical and practical skills their business needs, staff that are irreplaceable in the current market, or issues retaining and developing their best people.

Speakers Jeff Hughes, Engineering Manager of Welland Medical and Zoe Robson, Head of People at Ceres Power will share how they addressed workforce priorities within their businesses, with support from Crawley College and the Sussex and Surrey Institute of Technology (IoT). Dean Wynter (Vice Principal at Crawley College & SSIoT) will outline how businesses can access funding, tailored training, and qualifications like T Levels, HNCs, and HNDs to upskill staff.

Tony Summers, Partner and Head of Manufacturing at Carpenter Boxcommented:

“This is a fantastic opportunity for manufacturing businesses to explore one of the sector’s most pressing challenges – building and retaining a skilled workforce. With practical insight from industry peers and guidance from the Institute of Technology, attendees will gain clear, actionable ways to access training, funding and development pathways to support future growth.”

The event will end with an open Q&A, followed by attendees having the opportunity to tour the state-of-the-art IoT facility on the Crawley College campus. Registration for this free event is at https://www.metall.org.uk/events/

The event is sponsored by: Carpenter Box, NatWest and DMH Stallard LLP.