Ford & Stanley secures two-year Gemini Rail partnership

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Ford & Stanley secures two-year Gemini Rail partnership
Derby talent services specialist, Ford & Stanley Group has been awarded the exclusive recruitment partnership for Gemini Rail Services, one of the UK’s leading rolling stock maintenance and overhaul businesses. The recruitment provision and partnership will utilise all three recruitment businesses within the Ford & Stanley Group – Ford & Stanley TalentWise, Ford & Stanley Recruitment and Ford & Stanley Executive Search. The two-year deal will see Ford & Stanley provide white-collar and executive search talent solutions, underpinning the rail firm’s ambition and strategy in an exciting few years ahead. Director Dan Taylor, alongside Head of Sales Jon Levers of Ford & Stanley, who worked closely with Gemini Rail Services stakeholders on the designing of a partnership bespoke to specific business needs, said: “We could not be more excited to start 2024 with confirmation of this new partnership. “With less money being invested in the building of new trains, it is expected there will be an increase in demand for modification and fleet improvement. With this upturn in the overhaul market, there has never been a more opportunistic time for those both in rail seeking an exciting career move and those from transferable industries to consider a career within UK rail industry. “We’re thrilled to be working with such an established and well-respected business as Gemini Rail which draws on its rich rail heritage and deep-rooted culture of innovation spanning over a century. We look forward to help supporting Gemini Rail Services in becoming an employer of choice in the UK Rail industry.” Gemma Smithson, Head of HR at Gemini Rail Services, said: “We are delighted to cement our existing relationship with Ford & Stanley – it is a logistical step in the longstanding relationship that exists between our two businesses.” Sean Forster, recently appointed COO of Gemini Rail Services, added: “We have an exciting few years ahead which comes with a pressing need to secure the best talent from a ‘noisy and competitive’ candidate market. “Ford & Stanley offered a low maintenance, highly effective cost down / quality up initiative which made it an easy decision for us to entrust our white-collar business needs, in addition to a continuation of playing a pivotal role in building our executive leadership team.”

Health testing company moves onto the high street

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Health testing company moves onto the high street

The owners of an East Midlands-based health testing company is set to offer a face-to-face advice service on the high street after purchasing its first retail outlet.

Healthy Stuff Online Ltd, based in Castle Donington, operates a worldwide testing service for people looking for insights on their health, including food allergies and intolerances.

It has now purchased a health food shop in Knaresborough, near Harrogate, which has been serving customers for more than 30 years.

Staff at the branch, who have all been retained, will now receive training to help customers take the range of Healthy Stuff tests in an on-site consulting room, which will be created later this year.

And its array of self-administered tests will be available to buy in store to complement the existing range of health supplements and well-being products which are already available to purchase.

While the historic building has undergone a refurbishment programme it still sells its complete range of health and wellbeing products, as well as its popular pick and mix loose tea range.

Healthy Stuff chairman Jason Wootton said: “We are absolutely delighted to be working with the team at Natural Choice which has been supporting the people of Knaresborough with their health and wellbeing for decades.

“We intend to support the company’s existing offering completely, but believe we can enhance the customer experience through our testing so they can gain valuable insights into which products will help them improve their health.

“Our tests, which are clinically proven and very similar to those used by medical professionals, are in heavy demand, but we want to go one better and help the NHS by inviting people into our new store to take a test as part of a wrap-around service involving face-to-face consultation and access to health and well-being products.

“We are thoroughly enjoying working alongside the staff at the store and we are learning more every day about this exciting market, which will be used to expand the group and develop further offerings to our current clients and partners.”

It is the first time Healthy Stuff has entered the high street, but it has plans to open several stores throughout the UK during 2024.

The company is making the move into bricks and mortar after doubling in size over the last year, thanks to a huge increase in demand for its hair and finger-prick blood sample tests from people taking investigations into their medical symptoms into their own hands.

The change in behaviour has been prompted by delays in seeing their GPs and people’s awareness of the ease and convenience of home testing following the widespread use of lateral flow tests during COVID.

Rushton Hickman sees success on the rink

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Rushton Hickman sees success on the rink
Commercial property agents Rushton Hickman Ltd have successfully let and won the management of a unit on the modern Rink Drive development on the edge of Swadlincote town centre. The property comprises a modern end-terraced industrial unit of steel portal frame construction. The ground floor and upper floor provides 2,288 sq ft of industrial and office space, which has been transformed by the new tenant, My Life Interiors; they specialise in the designing and installation of kitchens and bathrooms in the Swadlincote, Burton-upon-Trent and surrounding areas. Rushton Hickman Ltd’s client, Mr Bolton said: “After managing my rental investment myself, I decided to talk to professionals. “At the first meeting with Graham Bancroft, I immediately felt confident and comfortable as he outlined a strategy for the rental of the property. It was obvious to me that Graham totally understood the market. “I was then introduced to Jade Martin, who would be responsible for the management of the property – Jade exceeded all my expectations.” Associate Director, Jade Martin concluded: “We are pleased to have been able to find the perfect premises for the Swadlincote based business to enable them to fulfil their business needs, whilst also agreeing terms quickly for our client to avoid a vacant period. “Demand is still strong in this sector and we would recommend anyone looking to sell or let their premises contacts us, as we would be delighted to discuss potential options.”

Exchange programme brings American accountant to Nottingham

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Exchange programme brings American accountant to Nottingham
Nottingham accountants Page Kirk recently welcomed a visitor from the USA, as part of an exchange programme with associate firm in Wisconsin. Jordan Ditter, Senior Accountant with Wegner CPAs in Madison, spent a month at the Page Kirk offices on Gregory Boulevard, where he not only gained an appreciation of British accounting practices, but also managed to take in some of the local sights and entertainment – including a match at the City Ground and a visit to a traditional pantomime. The trip comes hot on the heels of Page Kirk’s Sonja Dengler spending time in Madison and finding out more about accountancy on the other side of the pond. The exchange was made possible by Page Kirk’s membership of Accelerate – a network of accountancy firms affiliated with Crowe Global. The connections across borders mean that the local accountancy business is kept abreast of the very latest developments in best practice and technology. At the same time, their clients have access to international expertise, while members of staff can benefit from opportunities to work overseas. Jordan said of his recent visit to Nottingham: “Overall, it was a really great experience. I felt like I learned a lot while at Page Kirk and even though I was in Nottingham to work, there were still lots of opportunities for leisure and activities. “It was great to meet a whole new team of people that I hope to stay in touch with after the exchange programme. Nottingham is a great city and I hope to make it back again someday.” Sonja reflected on her own trip to the USA: “The team at Wegner not only embraced me as a colleague but also went above and beyond to make me feel at home in a new work environment. Their hospitality was truly commendable. I felt encouraged to immerse myself in the culture, both professionally and personally.” Page Kirk are currently looking for qualified accountants and auditors to join their team. Benefits include the opportunity to take part in their international work exchange programme.

Preferred development partners selected to transform Derby City Centre

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Preferred development partners selected to transform Derby City Centre
Plans to regenerate Derby have taken a step forward with Derby City Council announcing a partnership made up of VINCI Developments UK and ION Developments as their preferred strategic development partner. In early 2023, the Council announced its intention to work with an experienced development partner to create a cohesive masterplan for the regeneration of several important city centre locations. Following an expression of interest process and procurement exercise through the Pagabo Developer Led Framework, VINCI and ION have been invited to develop more detailed plans for the cultural heart of the city. Over the coming months the partnership will work collaboratively with the Council, local businesses and community stakeholders to develop their vision and design for the regeneration of the city centre. Initial plans include a revitalised cultural quarter which will offer a range of leisure, commercial and community facilities, connected to a new business and residential district, incorporating the Bold Lane area and Northern Quarter. Within the proposed plans is a new cultural, commercial, and creative public space, which will be located on the site of the former Assembly Rooms. The multi-functional building will have spaces for meeting, working, and creating above restaurant and commercial space, to enhance the city centre offer. The plans are set in a redesigned and enhanced Market Place, which will become a focal point for the city and will create new and improved green spaces, including ‘pocket parks’ to support relaxation and wellbeing. The scheme also aims to create ‘green and blue corridors’ to improve connectivity between open spaces, such as Cathedral Green and the River Derwent and encourage more active travel across the city centre to underline the city’s net zero ambitions. Both firms have extensive experience in long-term regeneration and place management projects in collaboration with local authorities. The partnership will combine the extensive innovation, insight and experience of VINCI and ION, with the Council’s vision and understanding of the needs of the city. Councillor Nadine Peatfield, Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for City Centre, Regeneration, Culture and Tourism said: “Derby is a city of growth and economic significance, representing a regional economy of around £15bn, but despite all this our city centre does not reflect our status as an industry leader. “We’re on a journey to transform Derby into a vibrant city centre with culture at its heart, creating a go-to destination which not only attracts visitors from outside of the city but also offers an affordable place for our citizens to enjoy. “Attracting potential strategic development partners such as VINCI and ION is a huge step forward in bringing this ambitious vision to life. Both VINCI and ION hold a wealth of knowledge and experience and we’re very much looking forward to working with them on plans for our city centre’s exciting future.” Steve Parry, Managing Director of ION Developments, said: “We are delighted to be selected alongside VINCI Developments to work up these exciting plans for Derby City Council and the people and businesses of Derby. “Together, we will use our extensive experience to create a thriving city centre location that offers a blend of cultural, community, and commercial space to meet Derby’s needs, both now and long into the future.” Graham Lambert, Managing Director of VINCI UK Developments, said: “Derby as a city has much to offer and potential to be harnessed. We share the ambition of the Council, the local community and businesses, in seeking to revitalise the cultural core of the city. “The Council has laid the foundation for this, and we will create community led assets, flexible and diverse spaces and a quality business district that compliments the inward investment in the city. “We are proud to be chosen by the Council as partner for this important strategic project and look forward to working collaboratively with the Council and local stakeholders.” Avison Young have worked alongside the Council in a strategic property advisory role as well as supporting the procurement process, which was completed through Pagabo’s Developer Led Framework. Laura Loftus, Director and Contract Lead, Avison Young, said: “We are delighted to have supported the Council in developing the brief and the procurement process for this project. “VINCI and ION have clearly demonstrated their ambition on the scale and pace of the development, and their track record in sustainable regeneration provides a clear indication that the Council’s objectives and ambitions can be met through a series of well-planned developments which frame the future revitalisation of the City Centre.” Jonathan Parker, Development Director, Pagabo, said: “We’re delighted to see such an influential regeneration scheme getting underway with help from our specialist Developer Led Framework, to support Derby City Council’s ambitious plans, following a further competition process. “The scheme will take place over various sites in the city centre and promises to bring huge benefits to the local community. We can’t wait to follow the scheme as it progresses.” VINCI and ION will now work closely with the Council, local businesses and community stakeholders over the next six months to develop their vision and submit their plans for the city centre.

Green energy drive pays off for digital marketing agency

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Green energy drive pays off for digital marketing agency
Digital marketing agency Purpose Media is powering into 2024 – fuelled by green energy. The Derbyshire company, which has started the year with a number of new business wins, has invested in solar panels to provide clean electricity to its South Normanton headquarters. It has also replaced all its light fitments with LED bulbs, swapped petrol company vehicles for electric models and introduced free EV charging for staff and visitors. Managing Director Matt Wheatcroft said the business had been conscious of its environmental footprint and enlisted the help of experts from the University of Derby to conduct a detailed audit. “We’re committed to doing all we can to operate sustainably, and the university helped us assess the impact we were having on the environment and recommended measures we could implement to improve things,” he explained. The study revealed that installing solar panels could reduce the company’s carbon output by 6.3 tonnes each year, while moving to company electric vehicles could save a further 1.4 tonnes. The business also adopted a recommendation to switch light fittings to LED and decided to introduce two EV charging points which are free to use for employees and clients. The move has been close to a six-figure investment for the company, although some of that cost was mitigated by a £20,000 Green Entrepreneurs’ Programme grant from the university towards installation of the 109 solar panels. Matt now intends to investigate options for increasing insulation within the company’s offices to improve efficiency further and reduce heat loss. “We’re delighted with how the project has progressed to date and that we are making our contribution towards improved sustainability,” said Matt. “On top of the reduction being achieved in our emissions, we are also seeing substantial savings in our energy bills. Even after the installation of our two EV chargers, electricity costs have fallen by two-thirds during the winter months, and we expect not only to be self-sufficient in the summer but to also be able to supply excess power to the grid. “We think it should all add up to a saving of around £20,000 each year.” Communications director Steve Hall is one of the Purpose team who is able to take advantage of the free EV charging at work. “It helped persuade me that switching to an electric vehicle, despite increased up-front costs, was economically viable in the longer term as well as being good for the planet,” he said.

Merger to create “leading UK homebuilder”

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Merger to create “leading UK homebuilder”
Leicestershire-based housebuilding giant Barratt has revealed plans to acquire Redrow in a more than £2.5bn deal. Redrow shareholders will hold approximately 32.8 per cent of the combined group and Barratt shareholders will hold approximately 67.2 per cent of the combined group.

David Thomas, group chief executive of Barratt, said: “We have great respect for Redrow, its overall strategy, its leadership and employees, and its high-quality homes and communities.

“This is an exciting opportunity to bring together two highly complementary companies, creating an exceptional homebuilder in terms of quality, service and sustainability, able to build more of the high-quality homes this country needs.

“The combined group would leverage the respective strengths of both Barratt and Redrow, delivering significant benefits to our people, our supply chains, and – most importantly – our customers.”

Barratt and Redrow generated aggregate revenue of £7.4bn in FY 2023, delivering total completions of 22,642.

Matthew Pratt, group chief executive of Redrow, said: “Redrow and Barratt combined creates a leading UK homebuilder. Together, we’ll be in a much better position to offer a broader range of high-quality and energy efficient homes to customers.

“The Redrow brand, with its premium, characterful homes, has an excellent reputation and will remain a key part of the combined group. As with Barratt, Redrow’s fifty-year success story is based on its people, products and supply chain partners.

“Both businesses are a great fit and there are many exciting opportunities to innovate and share knowledge across a range of different areas.”

Steve Morgan, Redrow’s founder, said: “During the 50 years since I founded Redrow, I could not be more proud of the unique reputation it has earned for building premium homes and thriving communities.

“Barratt is a home builder I have long admired due to their likeminded attention to quality. I am confident that the Barratt / Redrow combination with their three high-quality complementary brands, will create a standout home builder for the future and accelerate the delivery of much needed homes across the UK.”

Caroline Silver, Barratt’s non-executive chair, will lead the combined group as non-executive chair. Barratt’s chief executive, David Thomas, will be group chief executive of the combined group. Mike Scott, chief financial officer of Barratt, will be chief financial officer of the combined group, and Steven Boyes, chief operating officer and deputy chief executive of Barratt, will be chief operating officer and deputy chief executive of the combined group. The board of directors will be a combined board comprising the existing executive and non-executive directors of Barratt, with the addition of Matthew Pratt, currently group chief executive of Redrow, who will join the combined group and assume the role of chief executive officer, Redrow, and group executive director, and Nicky Dulieu, currently senior independent director of Redrow, and Geeta Nanda, currently non-executive director of Redrow, who will both join as non-executive directors.

Barbara Richmond, group finance director of Redrow, has agreed to join the combined group to support the integration for a period of not less than 12 months.

The combined group will be renamed Barratt Redrow plc.

Coalville corrugated packaging firm makes acquisition

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Coalville corrugated packaging firm makes acquisition
The Logson Group, the Coalville-based independent supplier of corrugated packaging, has completed the acquisition of Challenge Packaging, an independent sheet plant based in East Sussex. Colin Prior, sales director and Simon Allen, chairman, along with the rest of the existing management team will remain with the business, continuing to lead Challenge Packaging as a stand-alone business within the Logson Group. Simon Allen, chairman, Challenge Packaging, said: “I am delighted to be involved in the next phase of Challenge Packaging’s development as we progress our future plans. “Our alignment with The Logson Group ethos serves to strengthen our market position whilst further diversifying our offering as we strive to maintain and grow our reputation as the Southeast’s leading packaging solution provider.” Martin Coppard, Managing Director, Challenge Packaging, added: “I am incredibly excited to work with the entire Challenge team, alongside colleagues at Logson Group, as we begin the next phase of our journey. “Joining with Logson, as our ideal partner, allows us to expand and evolve our market leading capabilities and drive customer service to new levels.” David Richardson, Logson Group CEO, added: “Challenge Packaging is a great addition to the Logson family, and we are pleased to have acquired the business allowing us to expand our reach into the Southeast of the country. “Simon, Colin, and the team at Challenge Packaging, have built a very strong business that has shown continued growth and development over many years. There is a strong correlation between the two organisations in terms of culture, drive, and approach to customers. We are very excited to be able to share expertise and capabilities with the wider Logson Group.” Challenge Packaging will join the existing Logson Group brands of Board24, Boxes and Packaging, Cases24, Jardin Corrugated, Red Rose Packaging, Boxshop, The Cardboard Box Company and Durham Box. Logson Group has a turnover of over £400m per annum and employs over 1,300 people.

BDO bolsters East Midlands team with partner hire

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BDO bolsters East Midlands team with partner hire

Accountancy and business advisory firm BDO LLP has strengthened its Midlands team with the appointment of a new partner.

Having previously worked at BDO between 2011 to 2018, Steve Round re-joins the firm as a tax partner in the East Midlands. He specialises in transaction tax and advising owner-managed businesses, their shareholders & private equity-backed businesses on tax issues arising during all stages of a business’s lifecycle.

At BDO, he will manage a portfolio of clients across a breadth of sectors, including technology, professional services, manufacturing, business services and real estate. He will also focus on transaction work, advising on corporate structuring, shareholder exits, business acquisitions, tax due diligence, succession and the creation of Employee Ownership Trusts (EOTs).

Kyla Bellingall, regional managing partner at BDO in the Midlands, said: “We’re delighted to welcome back Steve to our rapidly expanding East Midlands team.

“In the last 12 months, we have invested significantly in the region, cementing our position in the market with our long-term move to Nottingham city centre, while also attracting talented and high-performing individuals to strengthen our proposition.

“Steve will add considerable value as we continue to grow our tax and corporate finance teams in the East Midlands.”

Steve will be based in the firm’s Nottingham office and joins from Cooper Parry.

He said: “It’s fantastic to be back at BDO during a period of exciting growth in the region. I’m really looking forward to getting back out in the East Midlands market to reignite strong relationships with the private equity and advisor community, as well as owner-managed businesses that are the lifeblood of the region.

“I can’t wait to get stuck in and build close bonds across our local, national and international teams – a network that brings considerable value to our service offering.”

£14m of investment delivered by Loughborough Town Deal – with more on the way

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£14m of investment delivered by Loughborough Town Deal – with more on the way
Millions of pounds have been invested thanks to Loughborough Town Deal and more developments are on the way. The Town Deal is backing 11 projects with several already being completed or progressing well and 2024 looks set to be another big year. The Town Deal secured £16.9 million from the Government’s Towns Fund to support the projects and in total, they are worth more than £40 million of investment. Those already completed include a new Careers and Enterprise Hub in the town centre, the regeneration of the Bedford Square area, the creation of SportPark Pavilion 4 at Loughborough University and the upgrade of two kilometres of canal towpath through the heart of the town. The Living Loughborough project has also expanded free wi-fi in the town centre, created an augmented reality heritage trail and helped introduce free business support for local businesses. More elements of this scheme are being developed. In total, the investment for these projects is around £14 million. Other projects also well underway include work to save the last major Bell Foundry in Britain – John Taylor & Co. The scheme, which is also being supported by the Heritage Lottery Fund, is due for completion later this year. Dr Nik Kotecha OBE DL, Loughborough Town Deal chair, said: “I am delighted to see the progress that the Town Deal projects are making on the ground – projects which began as ideas for regeneration and improvements, over four years ago. “The total investment now being made is simply huge for Loughborough, its residents, and visitors to the town. It will help support the people of Loughborough for many years to come with new facilities, skills, jobs and an improved environment.” Dr Kotecha, whose tenure as chair of the Town Deal Board has come to an end, added: “I am proud of what our Town Deal has achieved so far and proud to have played a role in supporting the programme and projects through to this delivery stage. “We have faced and overcome a range of challenges, including right from the very beginning when we put together our investment plan with partners and local businesses – just as the pandemic hit. “However, we went on to secure £16.9 million from the Government to back our 11 projects. Today, work is well advanced, collaborating with many tremendous partners who have co-invested and have led – or are leading – the delivery of these exciting projects. Without the commitment shown by our partners, the programme just wouldn’t have been possible. “I am really pleased that some key projects have already been completed and will make a lasting difference for Loughborough. “I’m excited to see the successful completion of all projects within the Town Deal, and I would like to wish everyone who has supported the Town Deal over the past few years the best, in particular my fellow board members who have been instrumental in driving this forward. “The Town Deal will not only leave a legacy in terms of its projects but also in how it has brought people, organisations and businesses together for the benefit of the area.” Dr Kotecha was appointed co-chair of the board in 2020 alongside Cllr Jonathan Morgan, the former Leader of Charnwood Borough Council. Dr Kotecha has been chair since last year. A new chair will be appointed shortly. The other Town Deal projects which are still being progressed include the Lanes and Links scheme which will better link the town centre and Queen’s Park and see the creation of a Covid memorial; the creation of a Digital Skills Hub at Loughborough College; the creation of the Generator which will see a derelict building converted into a creative arts and culture hub; support for Great Central Railway; and support for a flood scheme for Loughborough’s Wood Brook. The Town Deal Board involves representatives from Charnwood Borough Council, Loughborough University, Loughborough College, Love Loughborough, Leicestershire County Council, the Leicester and Leicestershire Enterprise Partnership, Charnwood Together Economy and Skills Group, local businesses and Loughborough MP Jane Hunt.
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