At the end of the visit there was some time to discuss some of key issues experienced by many businesses. Ms Sandbach was interested in the problems organisations can face without a good broadband service, the impact of the living wage on local economy and the opportunity for younger people to join and grow in the business.
Roy Shelton CEO said, “When there isn’t good broadband infrastructure it can draw businesses away from an area. When businesses move away so does the young and local talent. We are lucky to attract young people as apprentices and graduates. Fortunately we have been able to use our own technology to enable the team to work in such a glorious location. We also have offices in other rural locations such as The Nostell Estate in Yorkshire, the Wilton Centre in Redcar and Welshpool. ITS has employed six young people either as graduates or apprentices in the last 12 months, we are rolling out new training programmes later this year to help develop their careers long term.”
Mr Shelton continued, “ITS has not felt the impact of the living wage, however one can appreciate that smaller businesses in different sectors may need to review their business models to support it. We have a lot of people in our organisation who are working mums, have young families and so we make sure people are fairly rewarded for their hard work and commitment.”
Ms Sandbach MP said, “Poor broadband connection is the biggest source of complaints I get into my inbox, therefore I am delighted to see the solutions that ITS can offer to local businesses and residents for superfast and ultrafast connections. If it is good enough for the PM’s constituency, then it is good enough for Cheshire.”