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ANS strengthens AI and data capabilities with Makutu acquisition

April Lara
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ANS strengthens AI and data capabilities with Makutu acquisition

Manchester-based technology consultancy ANS has acquired Derby firm Makutu, a specialist in data engineering and AI solutions. The transaction brings 25 data and AI professionals into ANS, expanding its capacity to deliver enterprise-scale data platforms.

Makutu, founded in 2020, provides services across Microsoft Fabric readiness, OneLake migration, predictive analytics, and IoT integration. Its client base includes local authorities, housing providers, utilities, and retail organisations. The consultancy has been recognised as a leading emerging player by industry analysts.

The acquisition reinforces ANS’s focus on Microsoft technologies. The company employs more than 100 certified Microsoft specialists, including four Most Valuable Professionals, and was named Microsoft Services Partner of the Year in 2024.

Following its 2022 purchase of Dynamics 365 consultancy Preact, ANS continues a strategy of combining selective acquisitions with internal growth. Makutu’s expertise in AI and real-time data is expected to enhance ANS’s ability to support organisations across sectors with scalable, data-driven technology solutions.

Radcliffe on Trent scheme connects new homeowners with local businesses

April Lara
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Radcliffe on Trent scheme connects new homeowners with local businesses

A new initiative in Radcliffe on Trent is linking incoming residents with independent businesses in the village.

Spitfire Homes, a Midlands-based developer, has launched its Gold Card programme at Sherbourne, its first Nottingham housing collection. The scheme gives new homeowners access to offers from local retailers, hospitality venues, and leisure providers, with businesses able to set their own promotions at no cost.

Early partners include Radcliffe Golf Club, Lisa’s Barber Shop, The Flower Shop, One More Chapter Bookshop, Ava Joyce Ladies Boutique, and Fruitlicious Fruit and Veg Shop. The programme aims to increase footfall for local traders while helping new residents integrate into the community.

The Sherbourne development will also contribute more than £2 million to local infrastructure, including £450,000 for highways and transport improvements and £870,000 to expand Radcliffe-on-Trent Infant and Junior Schools.

The Gold Card scheme remains open to additional local businesses. Spitfire Homes is actively seeking new partners to expand the programme and strengthen community engagement.

Derbyshire businesses call for final teams to join charity golf day helping families in need

Tess Egginton
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Derbyshire businesses call for final teams to join charity golf day helping families in need
Two Derbyshire businesses are calling on local firms to sign up for a charity golf day later this month, with just a few team places remaining. South Normanton-based strategic marketing agency Purpose Media and Derby-headquartered S. O’Brien Heating Solutions are teaming up for a second year to host the event at Morley Hayes on 24th September, in aid of Miles for Smiles. Building on last year’s success, which raised £15,000 for the European team competing in the Cairn’s Cup, the ‘Ryder Cup of disabled golf’, organisers are aiming to generate even more vital funds this time around. This year, proceeds will support Miles for Smiles, a local charity which has raised more than £380,000 since 2016, providing grants and memorable experiences to 379 families and organisations affected by disabilities, life-changing and life-limiting conditions across South Derbyshire, East Staffordshire and North West Leicestershire. “After the tremendous success of last year, we’re excited to be hosting the golf day again. We have just a few places left, and we’d love to see more businesses and groups get involved. It’s a fantastic opportunity to enjoy a day of golf, while supporting a charity that makes a real difference to so many families,” said Steve O’Brien, owner of S. O ‘Brien Heating Solutions. Matt Wheatcroft, managing director of Purpose Media, added: “Sport has the power to bring people together, and by taking part in this event, businesses can enjoy a great day out while also helping Miles for Smiles continue its incredible work. “Our experience last year shows that businesses in our region are prepared to do their bit for a good cause and we’re certain that, once again, they will want to be a part of such a positive initiative.” It costs £400 per team of four to take part in the golf day, which will include breakfast, a two-course dinner and awards ceremony, as well as competitions throughout the day, including longest drive and closest to the pin. To book one of the remaining spaces, visit: https://www.purposemedia.co.uk/purpose-media-golf-day-2025

Tourism drives £2.53 billion into Nottinghamshire economy

April Lara
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Tourism drives £2.53 billion into Nottinghamshire economy

Tourism in Nottinghamshire generated £2.53 billion in economic impact in 2024/25, representing a 6.7 percent increase compared with the previous year. The sector attracted 34.96 million visitors and supported more than 22,500 jobs across the county.

Visitor spend was led by retail, accounting for over a third of the total at £1.89 billion. Food and drink contributed £0.53 billion, while accommodation and recreation grew steadily, with hotels and guesthouses increasing 7.4 percent. Transport and other related expenditures also rose, highlighting the broad economic benefits of tourism across multiple sectors.

Marketing and public relations activity played a key role in driving growth. Visit Nottinghamshire reported a total audience reach of 765 million, generating an advertising value equivalent of £7.34 million. Coverage included domestic and international media features on cultural, historical, and sporting attractions.

Digital engagement continued to expand, with the Visit Nottinghamshire website recording 4.49 million views, social media campaigns reaching 4.1 million users, and newsletters connecting with 41,000 subscribers. The Nottingham Tourism Centre welcomed over 100,000 visitors, providing guidance, accessibility support, and local retail services that contributed to extended stays and higher spending.

Visit Nottinghamshire is now preparing a 10-year Destination Management Plan focused on sustainable growth, sector innovation, and raising international profile to further strengthen Nottingham and Nottinghamshire’s position as a leading visitor destination.

Derby IT firm expands team to support growing school network

April Lara
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Derby IT firm expands team to support growing school network

Derby-based L.E.A.D. IT Services has expanded its workforce to meet rising demand from schools and academy trusts across the UK. The company provides IT support, equipment supply, and technology installation to education and business clients.

The firm recently added three full-time staff, bringing its total number of employees to 64, with further recruitment planned. The new team members include a field technician, a digital marketing officer, and an office administrator, all entering their first full-time roles after completing apprenticeships or college.

L.E.A.D. IT supports over 200 schools nationwide, providing full IT helpdesk services and installing advanced classroom technology such as interactive Smartboards. These systems allow teachers to store lessons digitally and enable pupils to access homework via QR codes, reducing reliance on printed materials.

The expansion aligns with increasing demand for educational technology and digital infrastructure, with the company continuing to grow its services across Derby, the wider Midlands, and other regions of the UK.

WBR Group strengthens SSAS team with duo of appointments

Tess Egginton
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WBR Group strengthens SSAS team with duo of appointments
WBR Group, the independent provider of SSAS administration and integrated professional services, has appointed Jenni Harland to director of SSAS operations and Abigail House as SSAS proposition manager. Jenni joined WBR in July 2021 as pensions operations leader, bringing with her over nine years of SSAS experience, having previously held roles at Talbot and Muir and The Pensions Partnership. Jenni has looked after a large portfolio of SSASs during her time at WBR Group and her knowledge has enabled her to deal with many cases of a complex nature, which has expanded her technical skills across all aspects of SSAS. Since joining WBR, Jenni has risen through the ranks before her promotion to director of SSAS operations. In her new role, Jenni will manage WBR’s SSAS Pension Operations and New Business team. Abigail joins WBR with over 15 years of experience within the financial services sector. She started her career at Lloyds TSB, before moving to HSBC and more recently Abigail was head of strategy & propositions at Alltrust. Throughout her career, Abigail has collaborated with product, marketing, compliance, and transformation teams to align propositions with regulatory requirements, market trends, and evolving customer expectations. Abigail will be reporting to Caitlin Southall, director of SSAS transformation and proposition, continuing to strengthen WBR’s SSAS proposition. Tom Moore, CEO, WBR Group, said: “We’re proud to welcome Abigail to the team and to see Jenni step into this well deserved leadership role. Their combined expertise and energy will be instrumental as we continue to scale our SSAS proposition and deliver the high standards of service and innovation our clients expect. These appointments reflect our ongoing investment in talent and our commitment to remaining the UK’s leading independent SSAS provider.” Jenni Harland, director of SSAS operations, said: “It’s a privilege to take on this new role at such an exciting time for WBR Group. I’ve had the pleasure of working alongside an exceptional team over the past four years, and I’m looking forward to leading our operations as we continue to grow, innovate, and deliver outstanding outcomes for our clients.” Abigail House, SSAS proposition manager, said: “Joining WBR Group is a fantastic opportunity to help shape the future of its SSAS proposition. I’m eager to collaborate with the team to develop solutions that meet the evolving needs of our clients and advisers, and to build on WBR’s strong reputation in the market.”

Major demolition works underway as regeneration of Northampton’s town centre gathers pace

Tess Egginton
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Major demolition works underway as regeneration of Northampton’s town centre gathers pace
Major demolition works are now well under way at Northampton’s 35–45 Abington Street as the regeneration of the town centre gathers pace. The removal of long-vacant buildings, including the former M&S, BHS, and Job Centre, is clearing the way for a new development that will bring modern homes, retail, and leisure opportunities to the heart of the town. Specialist contractor Colemans has completed key preparatory works, including internal soft strip, services disconnection, and the safe removal of asbestos. Hoarding and scaffolding have been installed along Abington Street and Wellington Street, and heavy machinery, including 40-tonne and 70-tonne excavators, has now entered the site to begin mechanical demolition, initially focusing on the former M&S building. Cllr James Petter, cabinet member for local economy, culture and leisure at West Northamptonshire Council, said: “Colemans have made excellent progress so far to carefully deconstruct these long-vacant buildings, overcoming complex challenges such as asbestos removal and site preparation, and we’re now seeing the physical transformation take shape. “This phase of works is all about preparing the site ready for a developer to come on board and deliver a vibrant scheme that will bring much-needed housing, modern retail and leisure spaces, and a more attractive public realm. “It’s a bold step forward in our long-term strategy to revitalise Northampton, support local businesses, and attract new investment. I’m proud of the work being done and excited for what’s to come.” James Doherty, project manager for Colemans, said: “We’re pleased with the progress made so far, with the safe delivery of heavy machinery to site marking an important milestone. “Our team is now carrying out the careful deconstruction of the buildings using a combination of precision equipment and controlled sequencing. “This approach allows us to safely remove each structure while keeping the site secure and disruption to a minimum. “It’s a privilege to support the council’s vision and help create a clear, ready site for the next stage of Northampton’s regeneration.” Once demolition is complete, the site will be transformed into a residential-led development with flexible ground-floor units for retail and leisure.

Sandyford enters East Midlands with Derbyshire industrial estate purchase

April Lara
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0
Sandyford enters East Midlands with Derbyshire industrial estate purchase

Sandyford Properties has acquired Salcombe Road Industrial Estate in Alfreton, Derbyshire, marking its first investment in the East Midlands. The 35,300 sq ft multi-let estate comprises 16 units ranging from 1,550 sq ft to 3,100 sq ft.

The estate was purchased at auction for £2.5 million from Derbyshire County Council, which had owned the property since its original development. It generates a gross rental income of £203,114 annually, with potential to increase in line with market trends. The units feature steel portal frame construction, brick and block elevations, high eaves, roller shutters, and a large forecourt with dedicated parking.

Sandyford plans refurbishment and proactive asset management across the estate. Salcombe Road Industrial Estate benefits from direct access to the M1 motorway and strong connectivity to Derby, Nottingha,m and Mansfield.

The acquisition extends Sandyford’s portfolio beyond Staffordshire and Cheshire and positions the company for further growth in the region. FHP acted as advisor and will manage lettings, while Hill Dickinson provided legal counsel.

Double letting for event production specialist in Castle Donington

Tess Egginton
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0
Double letting for event production specialist in Castle Donington
On Event Production Co., a live, virtual and hybrid event production specialist, has let Units 27 and 28 at Trent Lane Industrial Estate. The deal sees On expand its footprint on Trent Lane Industrial Estate, where it is headquartered, enhancing its capacity to deliver large-scale event productions and bespoke scenic fabrication projects. The acquisition of two further 10,500 sq ft units will allow the company to scale its operations, increase workshop capacity, and further develop its technical and scenic production services. Brokered by Thomas Szymkiw, NG Chartered Surveyors’ head of agency, the lettings were arranged on behalf of a private landlord client. Thomas Szymkiw said: “We are delighted to welcome On Event Production Co. to Units 27 and 28 at Trent Lane Industrial Estate. Their move underscores the appeal of modern, flexible space in highly connected locations. It also reflects the ongoing strength of demand from creative and logistics-focused businesses across the East Midlands.”

East Midlands has emerging employment hub shows PwC Good Growth for Cities Index

Tess Egginton
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0
East Midlands has emerging employment hub shows PwC Good Growth for Cities Index
The 2025 Demos-PwC Good Growth for Cities Index indicates that the East Midlands has an emerging employment hub, with Derby and Lincoln both performing above average for jobs, measured by unemployment rates. Leicester and Northampton all performed above the UK average for the number of new businesses established per head. Lincoln ranks 20th in this year’s Index due to improvements in job opportunities, higher   educational attainment for 16 to 24 year olds, and more equal income distribution, compared to last year. Nottingham was the lowest performing city in the region, ranking 40th. The Index ranks 50 of the UK’s largest cities, excluding London, based on both the public’s assessment and the actual performance of 12 economic measures, which this year, in order of public importance, were: income; income distribution; safety; work-life balance; health; jobs; housing; environment; transport; high streets; skills and new businesses. The higher the city scores on the public’s top priorities, the better the city performs on the Index. Financial measures such as income and jobs have previously led in their importance to the public by a wide margin, but results from this year’s survey reveal a rise in the importance of non-financial measures. Skills, high streets, housing and transport have all risen on the public agenda. Income and income distribution remain the top two priorities but have seen their sharpest year-on-year decline. The East Midlands performance  The six Good Growth Cities in the East Midlands generally performed below the national average when measured against public priorities. Rankings in the Index are as follows:
  • Lincoln: ranked 20th (24th last year)
  • Derby: ranked 24th (23rd last year)
  • Leicester: ranked 32nd (20th last year)
  • Northampton: ranked 36th (39th last year)
  • Nottingham: ranked 40th (25th last year)
Alex Hudson, market senior partner, East Midlands at PwC, said: “The Index findings present a compelling narrative of transformation and opportunity within the East Midlands. The emergence of Derby and Lincoln as employment hubs underscores the region’s growing influence in the UK’s economic landscape. “The entrepreneurial spirit thriving in cities like Leicester and Northampton further highlights the dynamism and resilience of our local business community. Despite varied performances across the region, these insights are a useful tool for policymakers, investors, and business leaders to address existing challenges and leverage strengths to encourage inclusive growth. “By championing initiatives that support skill development, equitable income distribution, and enhanced infrastructure, we can cultivate a robust and sustainable economic future for the East Midlands – the opportunity is clear.” How other cities in the UK performed  York is the highest performing city in the Index, with Edinburgh rising to second place and Bristol in third place. These cities scored highly across high streets, skills, and jobs which are key indicators of prosperity that the public increasingly values. York ranked among the top three cities for both high street and jobs.
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