BUSINESS REPORT


FEWER SHOPS ON HIGH STREET


Milton Keynes high streets ended 2017 with 39 fewer retail outlets than at the beginning of the year, PwC research compiled by the Local Data Company (LDC) reveals. This is a decline of 17 stores from 2016, and follows a trend of increasing closures since 2015. Store openings were also


the highest they have been for the last three years at 32 in 2017 compared to 20 in 2016 and 19 in 2015. The data shows that from


January 2017 to January 2018 32 shops opened on high streets, retail parks and shopping centres in Milton Keynes – alongside 39 closures. The data also shows that the


second half of 2017 saw substantially more closures and less openings than the first six months of the year, reflecting a tough trading environment including a slowdown in consumer spending, rising staff and business rates costs, as well as a slowdown in food and beverage growth as consumer confidence reached a four year low in December 2017.


123 Internet Group has enjoyed another great start to the year, doubling its turnover once again. With the team now expanding into double figures with an additional designer, web developer and digital marketing manager, the growth continues in the form of a new dedicated office space. The new office is based in Kiln Farm; a beautiful


converted barn that should provide plenty of opportunities for the growing business. As a full service digital agency, the aim is always to provide a friendly and welcoming atmosphere. The new boardroom is much bigger, giving the


company the capacity to host its own courses and larger meetings while the working area is more functional and filled with new technology. The expectation is that it will encourage the creative process and enhance the communication between staff


and clients alike. A dedicated 1Gig CityFibre line and an entirely new IP hosted phone system has also been added to increase efficiency and aid advancement as the firm takes on more projects. 123 Internet Group also wanted to recognise and


reward the hard work of the team. The new breakout room is the perfect space to relax and unwind with a pool table, air hockey and beanbags. Or there’s a Breakfast Bar for a morning coffee and catch up. With all of this in mind, the hope is that with this


new space the brand will be able to move towards an even bigger and brighter future. Keep up to date with the progress on the social media platforms as the team settle into the new office.


For more on 123 Internet Group services visit www.123internetgroup.com


OFFICE SPACE ADDS UP FOR 123 INTERNET GROUP


Create automated assistants to serve your business needs, drive higher engagement and satisfaction across your digital channels.


A chatbot can:


• Provide accurate information quickly 24/7 • Guarantee a great user experience • Use familiar communication channels • Improve customer service • Reduce customer service costs • Engage with new and existing customers


thebotforge design, build and deliver custom voice and text-based conversational interfaces powered by AI. Our chatbots can be delivered across multiple platforms: Alexa, Facebook Messenger, Twitter, Skype and your website.


We are here to walk you through your chatbot project all the way from initial planning to delivery, training and ongoing support.


t: 0800 061 4082 e: info@thebotforge.io w: www.thebotforge.io 6 inbusiness JUNE/JULY 2018


Page 1  |  Page 2  |  Page 3  |  Page 4  |  Page 5  |  Page 6  |  Page 7  |  Page 8  |  Page 9  |  Page 10  |  Page 11  |  Page 12  |  Page 13  |  Page 14  |  Page 15  |  Page 16  |  Page 17  |  Page 18  |  Page 19  |  Page 20  |  Page 21  |  Page 22  |  Page 23  |  Page 24  |  Page 25  |  Page 26  |  Page 27  |  Page 28  |  Page 29  |  Page 30  |  Page 31  |  Page 32