Private Business November 2011: hot topics for private companies

The November edition of Private Business begins with a look at the main themes from the most recent of our Enterprising UK surveys. The results show that, although there are plenty of challenges in the near future, most private businesses are pushing ahead and aiming for growth. We also highlight the winners of the recent Private Business Awards and profile the success stories and inherent enthusiasm of the winning companies.

Using a partnership structure for your business is certainly not a new concept, but it’s one that has provided many benefits for John Lewis, the UK department store. In this edition we talk to Laura Whyte, Personnel Director, and Charlie Mayfield, Chairman, to find out how why a partnership structure has so many positive aspects for their employees and their business.

Executive remuneration has been creating headlines in the news over the past few months. We look at why toughening up executives’ targets and ensuring they reflect your business strategy are vital for effective remuneration packages that meet your long-term goals.

Shazam, the music discovery company, is one business which has shown how innovation and cutting-edge technology can push a private business forward. We talk to Andrew Fisher, Shazam’s CEO, to find out more about their mobile app and the future for mobile-based music.

As always, we round up this issue with our regular Bits at the back section, where we highlight the hot topics and issues that are affecting private businesses.