” Sometimes the simplest things are the most profound. My job is to bring out in people & what they wouldn’t dare do themselves “
Henton and Chattell acquires Newark site from Farmstar
Henton and Chattell is taking over the Newark branch of Farmstar Ltd.
The acquisition marks the next stage in Henton and Chattell’s growth strategy and strengthens its presence in the agricultural, groundcare, and garden machinery sectors across the East Midlands.
The deal will see the Newark depot fully integrated into Henton and Chattell’s operations from this week. All existing staff will be retained.
Peter Chaloner, managing director of Henton and Chattell, said: “We are incredibly pleased to officially welcome the Newark team and customers into the Henton and Chattell family.
“This is a significant milestone for our business, and the Newark site provides us with a strong platform to further expand our reach and deliver an even broader range of products and services in the region.
“We would like to extend our sincere thanks to Sam Davies, Managing Director of Farmstar Ltd, whose constructive and collaborative approach has helped ensure a smooth and positive transition for all parties involved.”
Work begins on £23m affordable housing development in Bulwell
Nottingham Community Housing Association (NCHA) has broken ground on two long-vacant brownfield sites in North Nottingham, paving the way for the construction of 102 affordable homes in Bulwell.
The £23m development will see the transformation of two adjacent five-acre sites, including the former Henry Mellish School on Kersall Drive and the disused Piccadilly playing field.
Delivered in partnership with Nottingham City Council, the schemes will bring forward a mix of two- and three-bedroom houses. Of these, 34 will be available for shared ownership. A further 68 homes will be made available for social rent through the City Council’s housing register.
All homes will meet a minimum EPC rating of A, offering residents lower energy bills and a reduced carbon footprint.
Fran Cropper, new business and development manager, said: “We’re really pleased to be working with Nottingham City Council again on this important scheme with social value. We’re proud to bring this new housing scheme to Nottingham, addressing local housing needs while paving the way for a sustainable future.”
Cllr Jay Hayes, executive member for housing and planning at Nottingham City Council, said: “This development marks a significant step forward in the city’s commitment to providing high-quality, affordable homes for local people.
“We’re proud to see NCHA delivering housing that not only meets an urgent need but that will also help build strong and inclusive communities. Everyone deserves a safe, secure place to call home, and I look forward to seeing the Henry Mellish and Piccadilly developments come to life.”
Known as Maple Fields and The Crescent, the developments will deliver 45 and 57 homes respectively. The sites have stood empty for over 15 years and benefit from full residential planning consent, previously secured by Godwin Developments.
Owl Partnerships are the lead contractor on both sites. Gareth Wilkes MCIOB, construction director at Owl Partnerships, said: “Breaking ground on these sites is a proud moment for the team. It’s the result of strong collaboration and a shared vision to deliver homes that truly serve the Nottingham community. We’re focused on delivering quality and sustainability, and creating places people are proud to live.”
Nottinghamshire Healthcare receives £2.6m for heating decarbonisation project
Nottinghamshire Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust has secured £2.6 million in funding to overhaul the heating system at The Wells Road Centre in Nottingham. The project is part of the Government’s Public Sector Decarbonisation Scheme, designed to help public sector organisations meet carbon reduction targets.
The funding will enable the Trust to replace the gas boilers currently in use at The Wells Road Centre with a high-temperature water source heat pump. This system uses electricity to extract heat from a nearby water source to provide both heating and hot water, replacing the centre’s reliance on gas. Additional energy efficiency upgrades will include the installation of internal LED lighting, improvements to the Building Management System, and enhanced insulation.
This move will significantly cut carbon emissions, aligning with the Trust’s Green Plan and its goal to achieve Net Zero. The project is expected to have positive environmental, operational, and community impacts, contributing to a more sustainable healthcare environment. The work is scheduled to start in 2025/26 and is expected to be completed by March 2028, with minimal disruption to services.
Leicester City and King Power deepen ties with University of Leicester through new scholarships and initiatives
Leicester City Football Club and King Power have reinforced their partnership with the University of Leicester through a fresh agreement to enhance collaborative efforts in Thailand. The expanded cooperation focuses on child health, education, and professional development, aiming to drive impactful change in both Leicester and Thailand.
A major element of the partnership is the extension of the Leicester City Football Club Professorship in Child Health, which has been a key resource since its establishment in 2018. The role will now support projects related to gestational diabetes and environmental health in Thailand, alongside ongoing research into the health of pre-term babies.
The agreement also includes the launch of two new scholarships: one for disadvantaged students in Leicester and another for Thai students to study at the University of Leicester. These scholarships will provide much-needed financial support to help young people overcome barriers to higher education. Additionally, the University will offer professional development programmes to King Power executives, strengthening the ties between the two organisations.
This partnership underscores a shared commitment to education, health improvement, and the creation of lasting opportunities for individuals in both regions.
HyMarnham Power hits key milestone in low-carbon hydrogen production project
The HyMarnham Power project, a collaboration between GeoPura and JG Pears, has reached a significant infrastructure milestone in its low-carbon hydrogen production initiative. Located in the East Midlands, this project has completed essential utility works, with electrolyser commissioning now underway.
Scheduled to begin full operations in Autumn 2025, HyMarnham Power is among the first projects under the Hydrogen Allocation Round 1 (HAR1) to be realised. The £50 million project is expected to drive the development of green hydrogen, with a capacity of 15MWe from electrolysers. Local energy sources, including a biomass CHP plant, will support its operations, meeting the low-carbon hydrogen standard and reinforcing the region’s push for sustainable energy solutions.
The project has a strategic location on the site of the former High Marnham coal power station, which is now a key renewable energy hub. This site benefits from an active National Grid substation, which will support future renewable energy and hydrogen projects.
HyMarnham Power is part of GeoPura’s plan to expand its hydrogen-powered generator fleet, providing zero-emission power across various industries, including construction, events, and broadcasting. The facility is set to support Midlands-based companies aiming to lower their carbon emissions.
The government, through its commitment to HAR1, is backing projects like HyMarnham Power as part of its energy security and economic growth plan. As the UK continues to invest in clean hydrogen technologies, this milestone underlines the growing role of hydrogen in decarbonising sectors across the country.
Derby care group sold after 50 years of ownership
Willover Property Limited, which owned and operated Stanley House and Abbeydale nursing homes in Derby, has been sold. The converted and extended care facilities were opened by the Shepperson family back in 1975 and 1986.
The nursing homes were acquired by local care operators Iqbal and Perminder Sanghera, who own New Lodge Nursing Home in Mickleover.
Former director Mike Shepperson said: “It has been an honour and a privilege to care for so many wonderful residents and to work alongside a truly dedicated team. Abbeydale and Stanley House have always been about putting people first and I am confident that through the sales process by NGA Care, the homes are in excellent hands.
“Selling a business that has meant so much to my family and I was a significant milestone, and I couldn’t have done it without the exceptional support of our accounting and tax advisors PKF Smith Cooper.”
Iqbal said: “It was a pleasure working with Nick Greaves of NGA Care on a successful transaction, the whole process from start to finish was well managed and professional.
“Stanley House and Abbeydale’s values, staff, and community ties will remain intact. The homes have been a cornerstone of Derby for five decades. My priority is to honour its heritage while ensuring seamless continuity in the exceptional care residents and families rely on.”
Accounting, taxation and transaction support services for the sellers was handled by David Nelson, senior partner at PKF Smith Cooper, with employment tax advice led by Megan Jones. Martyn Brierley, partner & head of corporate & finance at Flint Bishop, assisted by George Ottewell and Louise Calow, dealt with all legal aspects of the transaction. Nick Greaves of NGA Care marketed the group for sale and identified the buyers.
Pennington’s solicitors acted buyside, with Rob Burns of Hazelwoods undertaking the financial and tax due diligence process. Funding was arranged by Steve Sargeant at Barclays.
Manufacturing struggles to regain momentum
The UK manufacturing sector showed tentative signs of stabilisation in July, but the underlying picture remains fragile as demand softens and cost pressures mount.
Manufacturing output was broadly flat in the three months to July, according to the latest CBI Industrial Trends Survey. Although declines were recorded across a wide range of sub-sectors, these were largely offset by stronger activity in the motor vehicles & transport equipment and food, drink & tobacco sectors. However, manufacturers expect output to fall slightly over the coming quarter to October.
Demand conditions continued to weaken. Total new orders fell during the past quarter, primarily due to a drop in domestic orders, while export orders remained unchanged. Looking ahead, firms anticipate declines in both domestic and overseas orders through to October.
Exporters, in particular, are grappling with growing headwinds. More than half of manufacturers—56%—cited pricing as a key constraint on exports, up significantly from 38% in April. This likely reflects a combination of higher US tariffs and the appreciation of Sterling against the US dollar. In addition, one in five firms reported that quotas and licensing issues are limiting export potential, a level rarely seen since the 1980s.
Cost pressures intensified further. The growth in average costs accelerated for the third consecutive quarter, reaching the fastest pace since January 2023. While both domestic and export prices rose, they failed to keep up with rising unit costs, pointing to a continued squeeze on manufacturers’ profitability. Firms expect domestic prices to rise at an above-average pace over the next three months, while export prices are anticipated to remain flat.
Business sentiment has continued to decline. Optimism among manufacturers deteriorated again in July, with little sign of recovery in investment appetite. Spending plans for the year ahead remain weak across the board, including in buildings, plant & machinery, training & retraining and product & process innovation. Firms highlighted that investment is being held back by uncertainty around future demand, inadequate returns, and persistent labour shortages.
The jobs outlook also remains subdued. Manufacturing employment fell for the third quarter in a row and is expected to decline slightly further in the three months to October. Shortages of skilled labour remain a pressing issue, with more than one quarter of firms citing this as a constraint on output in the next three months.
Ben Jones, lead economist, CBI, said: “Conditions in UK manufacturing remain challenging, with many firms reporting subdued and unpredictable demand. High input costs, labour shortages and global supply chain disruptions are continuing to put pressure on margins and capacity.
“Rising labour costs have undermined manufacturers’ external competitiveness. While some exporters are finding opportunities overseas, overall sentiment is cautious, with economic and policy uncertainty weighing heavily on investment decisions.
“What manufacturers really need now is stability—starting with predictability in the tax environment, alongside delivery at pace on the government’s industrial strategy, skills reforms and steps to bring down energy costs. As we look ahead to the Autumn Budget, government must work to reassure businesses to avoid additional uncertainty that could further weaken investment prospects.”
BDO welcomes new head of manufacturing in the Midlands
Accountancy and business advisory firm BDO LLP has named partner Chris Cole as its new head of manufacturing in the Midlands.
Having joined BDO in December 2023 as audit partner, Chris takes over the role from Jon Lanes, who was appointed as head of risk advisory services at BDO earlier this year.
In his new position, Chris will be responsible for managing the Midlands manufacturing team. He will also continue in his role as audit partner in the region.
Chris has more than 20 years’ experience in the industry, with particular expertise in auditing US-listed businesses under the United States Public Accounting Oversight Board (PCAOB) standards, including auditing SOX controls – measures put in place by companies in order to identify and prevent errors or inaccuracies in financial reporting.
Having worked in the US, UK and Australia throughout his career, Chris has built up significant international credentials, while bringing expertise across a wide range of sectors, such as automotive, international manufacturing and mining. At BDO, he is responsible for leading the region’s US reporting proposition, while working alongside the London Audit Group’s US team.
Chris said: “Manufacturing forms part of the rich fabric of the Midlands and contributes significantly to the region’s economy, accounting for hundreds of thousands of jobs.
“Our latest quarterly Manufacturing Outlook, in partnership with Make UK, reflects the sector’s importance – both domestically and internationally. As such, we have developed strength and depth in our manufacturing capabilities and I’m absolutely delighted to be taking over the role of Head of Manufacturing in the Midlands.”
Kyla Bellingall, regional managing partner at BDO in the Midlands, said: “Chris is a fantastic asset to our team in the Midlands, combining technical expertise with deep sector understanding. He is perfectly placed to help our manufacturing clients navigate the uncertain economic terrain and tackle those sector-specific challenges that are real barriers to growth.”
Nottingham Building Society appoints new chief technology officer
Nottingham Building Society has appointed Russ Thornton as its new chief technology officer.
Russ initially joined the 176-year-old mutual in March 2025 as a strategic advisor in an interim capacity from Shawbrook Bank, a specialist bank where he spearheaded a comprehensive multi-year digital transformation, from creating the strategy and its roadmap to delivering its execution.
He replaces Paul Howley, who departs in July following three years at the organisation as its first ever chief technology and transformation officer in 2022.
Russ brings 34 years of experience in leading digital transformations to drive business growth, having also held senior leadership positions at Cofunds, Legal & General, Aegon, and WorldRemit. He will now be responsible for the delivery of Nottingham Building Society’s core banking and mortgage transformation strategies.
Speaking about the appointment, Sue Hayes, CEO at Nottingham Building Society, said: “Russ brings deep expertise and a proven track record of delivering digital transformation at pace and scale. Since joining us earlier this year, he’s had a great impact, and I know he will continue to do so as he leads our transformation programme.
“He has successfully delivered complex transformation across banks, fintechs, and global financial services institutions, including most recently at Shawbrook, where his work played a key role in more than doubling the bank’s loan book and deposits while radically improving digital experiences for customers and brokers alike.
“This is a pivotal moment for the Society as we prepare to launch new technology that will transform the mortgage experience for brokers, borrowers, and colleagues alike. Russ shares our values, our purpose, and our belief in building a modern mutual that serves real lives.
“With over three decades of experience, Russ has led enterprise-wide technology strategies, built and scaled high-performing engineering and product teams, and driven operational excellence through innovation. He brings not only technical depth, but also the leadership and cultural insight needed to embed lasting change that puts the customer first.”
Sue added: “We pass our thanks on to Paul Howley for everything he has done during his time with us. Paul’s legacy is not only the systems and structures he helped deliver, but the culture he helped shape.”
Russ Thornton added: “I’m extremely excited to join the Society at such a transformative point to continue to deliver on its purpose and promise to its members and communities. That sense of purpose and its ambition to serve members who don’t fit the traditional mould was really attractive to be part of.
“Under Paul’s guidance, the team has made fantastic progress modernising its mortgage and savings platforms, and I’m looking forward to building on that momentum. My focus will be on ensuring we have the right capabilities, controls and culture in place to grow with confidence and deliver great outcomes for our members and broker partners.”
It has also been confirmed that Aaron Shinwell, formerly of Santander UK, where he was commercial director – homes, will be starting his new role as chief lending officer at Nottingham Building Society in August.
Road improvements at M1’s J28 could boost surrounding economy
New figures released by Midlands Connect and Natalie Fleet MP show that within three miles of Junction 28 of the M1, strategic companies collectively support over 43,000 jobs and generate more than £10.5 billion in annual turnover.
Midlands Connect’s Roads Programme Lead, Swati Mittal, said investment in road upgrades could help ‘boost’ the area’s economic growth.
Advanced Manufacturing and Retail are the dominant sectors, accounting for the largest shares of employment and economic output. The first sector alone contributes over £1.6 billion in turnover and employs more than 10,000 people, highlighting the area’s role as a hub for manufacturing and supply chain activity.
Retail also plays a major role, contributing nearly £6.7 billion in turnover and supporting 16,900 jobs, showing how the corridor also serves regional consumer markets. The concentration of logistics and business services shows the importance of fast, reliable links to the wider motorway network.
This concentration of industry and retail sector hubs underscores the need for reliable connectivity to sustain business operations, freight logistics, and access to skilled labour.
Data shows that by 2035, due to the economic success of the area, there could be 81,830 extra trips a week using Junction 28, even though the junction is at 107% capacity in the morning rush hour.
Midlands Connect Roads Programme Lead, Swati Mittal, said: “With over 43,000 jobs and £10.5 billion turnover concentrated within just 3 miles, junction 28 enables national and international connectivity for key industries.
“Investment to address congestion, improve journey reliability, and unlock capacity will support manufacturing competitiveness, supply chain efficiency, and enable planned growth in housing and employment in the region.”
Bolsover MP Natalie Fleet, the Parliamentary Champion for Junction 28, said: “These figures show how critical making improvements at junction 28 is for employment and the economy.
“People in Bolsover and beyond need to be able to travel to and from their jobs in this area without sitting in congestion and businesses need to get goods in and out of their sites without unnecessary delays.
“I will continue to push for the improvements that we need.”
Just 3 weeks remain to make your nominations for the East Midlands Bricks Awards 2025
With just three weeks remaining until nominations close for the East Midlands Bricks Awards 2025, ensure to submit your entries for the 10th annual celebration of the property and construction industry by Friday 15th August.
It’s an ideal opportunity to boost your firm’s profile, showcase successes, reward teams, and bolster morale, all while reaching our audience of over 60,000 business readers.
Scheduled to take place on Thursday 2nd October (4:30pm – 7:30pm), the Bricks shine a light on the outstanding work of those shaping the landscape of our region, recognising development projects, businesses and people in commercial and public building across the East Midlands – from offices, industrial and residential, through to community projects such as leisure schemes and schools. We also highlight the work of architects, agencies and those behind large schemes.
The glittering awards ceremony revealing winners, at the famous Trent Bridge Cricket Ground, will also offer the perfect chance to forge new contacts with property and construction professionals from across the region.
The event will additionally welcome Councillor Nadine Peatfield – Leader of Derby City Council, Cabinet Member for City Centre, Regeneration, Strategy and Policy, and Deputy Mayor of the East Midlands, as keynote speaker.
To nominate your (or another) business/development for the East Midlands Bricks Awards, please click on a category link below or visit this page. Entry is free – with finalists also winning free tickets to the awards ceremony.
Categories include:
Tickets can now be booked for the East Midlands Bricks Awards 2025, click here to secure yours.
The special awards evening and networking event will be held on Thursday 2nd October in the Derek Randall Suite at the Trent Bridge Cricket Ground from 4:30pm – 7:30pm.
Connect with local decision makers over nibbles and complimentary drinks while applauding the outstanding companies and projects in our region.
- Contractor of the Year
- Developer of the Year
- Architects of the Year
- Most Active Agent
- Deal of the Year
- Residential Development of the Year
- Sustainable Development of the Year
- Commercial Development of the Year
- Excellence in Design
- Responsible Business of the Year
- Overall Winner
Nominations will close on Friday 15th August.
New for this year, all entrants will also have the opportunity to be featured on our dedicated nominee showcase on the East Midlands Business Link website, providing space for marketing your achievements.The East Midlands Bricks Awards 2025
What: The East Midlands Bricks Awards 2025 When: Thursday 2nd October (4.30pm – 7.30pm) Where: Derek Randall Suite, Trent Bridge Cricket Ground, Nottingham Keynote speaker: Councillor Nadine Peatfield – Leader of Derby City Council, Cabinet Member for City Centre, Regeneration, Strategy and Policy, and Deputy Mayor of the East Midlands Tickets: Available here Dress code: Standard business attire Thanks to our sponsors:
To be held at:
Time Out: Jane Biggs, managing director, Bygott Biggs
It’s Friday, and the weekend is just around the corner. That means it is time to kick up your feet and relax with some quick fire questions. This ‘Time Out’ features Jane Biggs, managing director at Bygott Biggs, who it turns out is a secret black belt at karate.
What is the first thing you do to get the weekend started?
Ask my husband to make me a gin and tonic.
What is your hobby?
Husband would say scrolling through rightmove – I think it’s country walks with the dog.
What is your favourite movie?
A classic – Four Weddings and a Funeral.
If you hadn’t been successful at what you do, what would you be doing instead as a career?
Interpreter. I studied Russian at Uni.
If you could have any superpower, what would it be?
Flying. I love travelling. Wouldn’t that make it so much easier?
What is your secret talent?
A black belt at karate.
What is your favourite genre of music?
Depends on the mood. If it’s dance my current fave song is Mark Ronson and Rae – ‘Suzanne’.
If you could travel to any moment in time, where would you go?
Back to before I met my husband! (Tongue in cheek – he’s reading this over my shoulder!)
East Midlands investment zones set to drive regional economic growth
The East Midlands is positioning itself for significant economic growth with a £4bn Government investment designed to support business expansion, job creation, and infrastructure development. The investment will focus on a series of key projects across the region, including the Hartington-Staveley site in Chesterfield, Infinity Park in Derby, and The Explore Park in Worksop, all of which aim to attract businesses and provide new opportunities for local economies.
This funding, managed by the East Midlands Combined County Authority (EMCCA), is guided by the newly formed Inclusive Growth Commission. The commission, led by the Royal Society of Arts, is tasked with ensuring the region’s development benefits a broad spectrum of its population. The commission’s recommendations, due for publication in September, will inform the EMCCA’s Local Growth Plan, which outlines how the region will contribute to national economic objectives.
The strategy also includes developing transport corridors, such as the Derby-Nottingham Trent Arc, and sustainable tourism, stretching from the Peak District to Sherwood Forest. These projects aim to create 100,000 jobs, build 52,000 homes, and boost the region’s economy by £4.6bn.
Local leaders, including Mayor Claire Ward, have emphasised the importance of inclusive growth, ensuring that people across the region, including those in rural and deprived areas, have access to well-paid, secure jobs. Public transport improvements, with the eventual transfer of responsibilities from local councils to EMCCA, are a central part of this vision.
The Mayor’s approach focuses on fostering a healthy, active population capable of seizing the opportunities generated by these investments. A key part of this strategy is collaborating with health organisations to address public health challenges, including mental health and economic inactivity, to ensure that more people can participate in the growing economy.
East Midlands engineering firm enters administration after contract issues
Franklyn Yates Engineering, a Derbyshire-based provider of mechanical and electrical services, has entered administration due to severe cashflow problems. Specialising in industries such as power, water, and energy from waste, the firm’s struggles stemmed from difficulties with a key contract, leading to financial instability.
The company’s joint administrators, Tyrone Courtman and Gareth Harris from RSM UK Restructuring Advisory, were appointed on July 15. They are now focused on liquidating the company’s assets to maximise returns.
Following the administration, 25 employees were made redundant, and the company’s future remains uncertain. In 2023, Franklyn Yates Engineering reported assets valued at £5 million and net assets just under £2 million.
The Greenbank Group, which owns Franklyn Yates, has confirmed that other businesses within the group remain unaffected and continue to operate normally.
Development approved for former colliery site in Nottinghamshire
A housing project on a former Nottinghamshire colliery site has been approved, following the finalisation of developer Harper Crewe’s community contribution agreements. The development will see the construction of 126 homes at the Clipstone Colliery site on Mansfield Road.
The plans include a mix of 88 open-market and 38 affordable homes, ranging from one to five bedrooms. The development will also retain the historic Clipstone Headstocks, listed by Historic England, which stand as a reminder of the area’s industrial past.
The approval, granted in October 2024, comes after developer agreements to invest in local infrastructure. These include £150,000 for bus service improvements, over £174,000 for community facility enhancements in Clipstone, and £90,000 towards special educational needs services to increase capacity. The project will also contribute £123,000 to improving local medical facilities.
Initially, Newark and Sherwood District Council’s planning officers raised concerns about parking, roads, and the proximity of the new homes to the Grade II listed headstocks. Despite these issues, the planning committee gave the green light to the project, citing the community contributions as a mitigating factor.
Clipstone Colliery, which operated from 1922 to 2003, was once one of Britain’s most productive coal mines, producing nearly one million tonnes of coal annually at its peak.
£130m East Midlands boost expected from India trade deal
Businesses and workers in the East Midlands are set to benefit from the UK’s trade deal with India, according to the Government, as new analysis shows the agreement will deliver a £130m boost for the local economy.
Both Prime Ministers met yesterday morning for the signing of the UK-India trade deal, expected to bring a £4.8bn increase to UK GDP each year.
740 East Midlands businesses exported goods worth £130m to India last year, which could grow under the new deal. The region’s high value manufacturing and automation sectors, for example, could see a boost thanks to lower tariffs on advanced manufacturing goods and on importing Indian textiles.
Business and Trade Secretary Jonathan Reynolds said: “The millions brought to the East Midlands each year from the deal we’ve signed with India will be keenly felt across local communities, whether that’s higher wages for workers, more choice for shoppers, or increased overseas sales for businesses.”
The UK already imports £11bn in goods from India but liberalised tariffs on Indian goods will make it easier and cheaper. For businesses in the East Midlands, this could mean potential savings in the region’s established manufacturing sectors, including machinery, equipment and automotive components.
India’s trade weighted average tariff will drop from 15% to 3% which means companies in the East Midlands selling products such as luxury knitwear to India will find it easier to sell to the Indian market.
Aligned with the UK’s recent Industrial and Trade Strategies, the Government says the deal will support the sectors which drive the most growth for the economy – such as precision engineering and high-value manufacturing in the East Midlands – will offer significant opportunities for rail manufacturing – for which the East Midlands is globally recognised – and unlock opportunities for transport experts in the region.
Established in 1784 in Lea Mills, Derbyshire, John Smedley Ltd is a manufacturer and retailer of luxury knitwear who will benefit from liberalised tariffs on imports of Indian textiles.
Bill Leach, global sales director, John Smedley Ltd, said: “India is one of the fastest growing luxury markets in the world, and we are very excited about the UK- India Free Trade Agreement coming to fruition.
“John Smedley knitwear is already sold in over 50 countries around the world, and now that the FTA has been signed, we shall very much look forward to ensuring that an ever-increasing number of discerning luxury consumers in India will enjoy greater access to The World’s Finest Knitwear.”
Preparatory works get underway for Ashfield Automated Distribution and Manufacturing Centre
Preparatory works are underway for the £20 million Automated Distribution and Manufacturing Centre (ADMC) in Ashfield.
It is hoped the ADMC will be a national centre of excellence for automation and the jewel of a £100 million Innovation and Technology Park, bringing employment opportunities to the area.
The 2,800 sq m centre will support businesses of all sizes to design and implement bespoke automation strategies, boosting productivity, competitiveness, and long term economic growth.
Before work can begin on the building, major alterations to a road junction need to be completed alongside other associated works. The roadworks are set to start in the coming weeks.
Ashfield District Council leader, Cllr Jason Zadrozny, said: “This ADMC will become a magnet for businesses who recognise the need to embrace new technology to drive growth and improve. It will provide a legacy for generations to come and one that will attract more high skilled jobs to Ashfield.
“Regeneration is hugely important for Ashfield and our ambition to grow the District’s economy. We’re excited about work beginning and I look forward to seeing the centre take shape in the coming months.”
NOCO becomes official battery partner for Nottingham Forest
Nottingham Forest Football Club has announced a new partnership with NOCO, which will become the official battery power product partner for the 2025/26 season. As part of the deal, NOCO’s branding will be prominently displayed at the City Ground during all Premier League and domestic cup matches next season.
NOCO, a company established in 1914, is renowned for its advanced battery power solutions. Its product range includes jump starters, tyre inflators, battery chargers, and lithium batteries, all designed to deliver reliable power for both personal and professional use.
This partnership aligns with Nottingham Forest’s ongoing efforts to partner with innovative and reputable brands. The deal also signals NOCO’s expansion into the UK football market, enhancing its visibility in a key sector. Both organisations are expected to benefit from increased exposure throughout the season, with NOCO playing a pivotal role in supporting the club’s growth on and off the field.
Pennine Healthcare boosts manufacturing with ROTL worker programme
Pennine Healthcare has introduced a programme offering valuable employment opportunities to individuals nearing the end of their custodial sentences. By welcoming three ROTL (Release on Temporary Licence) workers into its cleanroom operations, the company is supporting community reintegration while strengthening its workforce. These placements provide the workers with essential skills development and help rebuild their confidence, contributing to their successful re-entry into society.
The success of this initiative has garnered attention from the Department of Health & Social Care, with a video produced highlighting the positive impact on both the workers and Pennine Healthcare. The initiative is also benefiting the company, with enhanced community engagement and a commitment to inclusive growth.
This move aligns with Pennine Healthcare’s broader strategy to foster social responsibility within the UK manufacturing sector. The company remains dedicated to creating diverse employment opportunities while contributing to the long-term sustainability of the medical device manufacturing industry.
Well-known family secures space for new deli and wine bar at community hub
A new deli and wine bar, run by a well-known family who traded in Derby markets for 60 years, has secured space in Mickleover, following a letting by commercial property consultancy OMEETO.
Lyndsey Morgan, who ran a delicatessen in the former indoor Eagle Market, is the man behind Brooks Deli and Wine Bar in Station Road. The family opened their first deli and wine bar in Ockbrook two years ago, but say their second site in Mickleover will be much bigger.
The new deli will be on the ground floor of the former Finewood Studio furniture shop. OMEETO completed the letting after the site was acquired by Derby’s MHL Commercial, which is sensitively refurbishing the site to create a hub for the community – including serviced offices, a Pilates reformer studio and an estate agency.
Chris Wright, OMEETO director, said: “Lyndsey from Brooks Deli is a well-known businessman in Derby, and we know that he’s going to bring something special to Mickleover.
“Residents in the village are excited to welcome the deli and wine bar to the area. We’ve all enjoyed the one in Ockbrook, so let’s see what the Mickleover deli will be like. What we do know, is that Lyndsey’s offering will be very well received in Mickleover, and exciting times are ahead this summer. Lyndsey has been a pleasure to work with, and we look forward to visiting.”
Brooks Deli and Wine Bar was set up by Lyndsey and his family after they left the Eagle Market. Expanding and opening in a second location was always Lyndsey’s plan and he had been searching for a suitable site.
Lyndsey’s dad, George, originally started the Morgan’s Sandwich Bar and Deli in Derby’s Market Hall in 1963. In 1988, the family-run businesses moved to the Eagle Market and traded under Lyndsey Morgan before he handed down the reins to his two sons, George and Thomas. They are now the third generation of the family to run the business.
Lyndsey said: “The building in Mickleover is a great location and we are very excited to be opening soon. The feedback we are receiving from people has been extremely positive and we really can’t wait to showcase the new site.
“After the success of the Brooks Deli and Wine Bar in Ockbrook, it is fantastic to be able to open a new venue in Mickleover.”
