Nottingham software company named top for AI
Nottingham-headquartered software company, Ideagen, has been named a ‘Leader’ in the Verdantix Green Quadrant: EHS Software 2025 scoring highly in both AI integration, document management and quality management.
Since the explosion of AI in 2022, the market has undergone a pivotal shift, as AI features start to redefine the value users can extract from EHS software.
Ideagen’s innovative AI integration earned a top score of 2.5/3.0 for its ability to enhance efficiency and support decision-making. From risk classification to action plan creation, Ideagen’s AI-powered features were recognized for the way they support users with tools that streamline processes and deliver actionable insights.
Ideagen also posted the highest scores of any vendor for document (2.5/3.0) and quality management (2.4/3.0) and was described as having made ‘monumental strides’ since the 2023 report.
Speaking about the news, Ideagen CEO, Ben Dorks, said: “The Green Quadrant is widely regarded as one of the most influential comparisons of EHS platforms in existence, so we are incredibly proud of the momentum we have made in strengthening our position as a ‘leader’.
“Our commitment to innovation is at the core of everything we do. Our investment in AI and focus on delivering a dynamic, user-friendly platform ensures we continue to meet the evolving needs of our customers, and it’s great to see that reflected in this ‘leader’ status.”
Businesses’ profit growth to stall following rising employment costs announced in Autumn Budget
New research from business and financial adviser Grant Thornton UK LLP finds that, following the increases announced in the Autumn Budget to employer National Insurance Contributions and National Minimum Wage, UK businesses’ profit growth expectations remain low and many are looking to review employee costs across the board including implementing hiring freezes.
The firm’s latest Business Outlook Tracker, which surveyed 800 UK businesses in December 2024, finds that the increasing employment costs announced in the Budget are one of the biggest challenges for businesses heading into 2025, along with attracting and retaining top talent.
Over half (52%) of the businesses surveyed anticipate that they will have to reduce hiring or cut jobs and offer reduced or no pay increases and bonuses to their employees, due to the increasing cost burden. Two thirds (66%) also plan to review their employee benefits offering, with 16% expecting to reduce their investment in employee reward and benefits over the next six months.
Over half (54%) of respondents also think it likely that their business will need to pass on the impact of these higher employment costs to customers by increasing prices.
The research shows that medium-sized businesses are more affected by these changes than larger businesses. More medium-sized businesses plan to cut jobs (55%), freeze or reduce hiring (55%) and pass on cost increases to customers (56%), compared to their larger counterparts (42%, 43% and 47% respectively).
Medium-sized businesses’ confidence in their funding position has been on a steady decline over the last year and remained stagnant in December, at –9 percentage points (pp) lower than the start of this year.
While the changes announced in the Budget are already resulting in them looking at ways to cut costs, almost two thirds (65%) of medium-sized business respondents anticipate that their business will need to apply for additional funding next year. Of these, almost one in four (23%) say it will be needed to cover increasing employment costs.
Despite these planned changes to try and manage costs, medium-sized businesses’ confidence in their profit growth remains subdued and has dropped significantly compared to February (-21pp). Almost half of the medium-sized business respondents (43%) now expect their profit levels to decline over the next six months.
This contrasts to the profit growth expectation of large corporates – where only 26% of respondents expect profits to decline. This corresponds to their overall confidence around the outlook of the UK economy with 92% of large corporates being optimistic compared to 72% of medium-sized businesses.
Matt Buckingham, Midlands Practice Leader, Grant Thornton UK LLP, said: “Attracting and retaining talent is one of the key drivers of growth in the Midlands and the pressures employers are feeling around cost inflation and tax changes need to be managed carefully.
“When reviewing employee benefits packages, transparency and clear communication around any changes is essential. Employees should understand how they will be impacted by any changes and what new or revised benefits are available, otherwise take-up rates could be lower than hoped for, along with any associated employer National Insurance savings.
“While employers should ensure that they’re doing everything they can to keep costs down, offering a competitive reward and benefits package is still essential. A comprehensive review of benefit costs to ensure best value is achieved from insurers will help ensure they’re maximising the return on any spend and help businesses to both manage increases and continue to recruit high-quality employees.
“Employee expenses can be a considerable cost to a business. The changes announced in the Autumn Budget have prompted many employers to consider how they can deal with increased employment costs, but it’s important for businesses to remember that there’s often scope to make savings that will help to offset some of them.
“Taking advantage of employment tax exemptions may help them to maximise any spend, along with understanding any tax-free benefit options. The ability to offer benefits such as work-related training or purchasing holiday can also enhance a business’ employee value proposition, often with little or no additional cost.”
Also commenting on the results, Schellion Horn, Head of Economic Consulting, Grant Thornton UK LLP, said: “Our previous Business Outlook Tracker was undertaken just before the Autumn Budget, at a time when the Chancellor was looking to manage expectations around the fiscal challenge ahead so as not to cause too much market instability on Budget day.
“It might have been expected that business confidence in the economy, investment potential and profitability would rebound after this – however that’s proven not to be the case.
“Our research indicates that the changes to employer’s National Insurance contributions and the National Minimum Wage announced in the Budget have hit businesses hard across the board – but particularly small to medium sized businesses.
“After the last few years of having to manage costs due to high inflation, wage growth and rising interest rates, just when there is light at the end of the tunnel, the market is now faced with further cost increases and the likelihood of interest rates staying higher for longer.
“Many of the businesses surveyed are looking to pass on at least some of these cost increases to customers. This will put pressure on inflation and keep interest rates higher for longer, which in turn will place more pressure on business costs.
“However, in practice, many of these firms – particularly those in the mid-market with less market power – will be unable to pass through all cost increases and will need to resort to other measures to manage these cost pressures.
“Even with these planned changes, medium-sized businesses clearly anticipate that they will not be enough to stabilise their profitability, with almost half expecting their profits to decrease moving forward. The Bank of England has now also downgraded its 2025 growth forecasts and warned that interest rates will fall more slowly than anticipated.
“With this in mind, the focus for businesses of all sizes, but particularly smaller to medium-sized, will continue to be managing costs and streamlining efficiencies where possible.
“For those looking to access new funding, staying on top of the available grants and investments, such as from local councils, and taking advantage of them where possible could make a real difference to those looking to offset the impact of ongoing cost pressures.”
EMEC strengthens team with strategic ecologist appointment
Nottingham-based Environmental Consultancy, EMEC has appointed Steve Alton as a Strategic Ecologist.
With a BSc (Hons) in Biology and recognition as a Fellow of the Royal Society of Biology, Steve has spent over three decades shaping conservation landscapes across the UK and therefore brings a wealth of experience and expertise in biodiversity and conservation.
His diverse career has included roles such as County Conservation Officer for Nottinghamshire Wildlife Trust, UK Programme Lead for Kew’s Millennium Seed Bank Project, and Conservation Officer at Ashdown Forest in Sussex. He has also advised on habitat creation for the renewable energy sector and co-managed a wildflower seed company with his wife.
In his new role at EMEC, Steve will be advising Network Rail’s Eastern Region Biodiversity Framework on how to manage their trackside land to ensure Biodiversity Net Gain compliance.
Steve’s decision to join EMEC was driven by his recent move back to Nottinghamshire and a desire to re-engage with the local conservation community. “Rejoining Nottinghamshire Wildlife Trust and EMEC felt like a golden opportunity to contribute to conservation in the region where my career began,” he shared.
Dr Ed Tripp, Consultancy Director at EMEC, added: “EMEC Ecology is thrilled to welcome Steve to the team. We are confident that his extensive knowledge and passion for biodiversity will be invaluable in advancing the conservation goals of our business and those of our clients.”
Beyond his professional achievements, Steve is passionate about music—whether making it, listening to it, or watching live performances. An avid gardener, he specialises in growing exotic and carnivorous plants. He is also a fan of science fiction and fantasy literature and enjoys cooking.
Financial services optimism falls
Optimism in the financial services (FS) sector fell at the quickest pace since September 2022, according to the latest CBI Financial Services Survey. That is despite business volumes growing at a faster pace in the quarter to December.
The quarterly survey, conducted between 21 November and 9 December 2024, showed that FS firms expect a similarly quick pace of volumes growth over the next quarter. Investment intentions were mixed, with around two-thirds of firms reporting that “other” factors, mainly linked to the cost implications of Autumn Budget measures, were likely to limit investment over the next 12 months.
Key findings:
- Optimism in December, compared with three months ago, fell at the fastest pace since September 2022 (weighted balance of -28% from -13% in September).
- Growth in business volumes picked up in the quarter to December (+32%) after a modest increase in the three months to September (+6%). Firms expect a similarly quick pace of volumes growth over the next three months (+32%).
- Average spreads fell at a survey-record pace in the quarter to December (-62% from -55% in September) and are expected to decline at a slightly slower rate over the next three months (-57%).
- The value of non-performing loans increased in the quarter to December (+18% from 16% in September) at the fastest rate since March 2021. Their value is expected to rise at a broadly similar pace over the next quarter (+21%).
- Profitability fell at a more modest pace in the quarter to December (-14% from -43% in September). FS firms expect a significantly quicker drop in profitability over the next three months (-55%).
- Headcount declined at a quicker rate in the quarter to December (-25% from -15% in September). Firms expect headcount to fall at a similar pace next quarter (-26%).
- Firms expect to increase IT investment in the next 12 months (compared to the last 12). However, capital expenditures on land & buildings and vehicles, plant & machinery are expected to fall.
- Around two-thirds of firms reported that “other” factors were likely to limit capital expenditure over the next 12 months (65%, near last quarter’s record high of 66%). Comments highlighted that companies are most concerned about the impact of substantial cost increases from the Autumn Budget on investment.
Leicestershire businesses offered support to thrive in the green economy
A fully funded advisory service offered by the University of Leicester is launching this month to help Leicestershire’s small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) thrive.
City and County SMEs are invited to the launch of the GreenerFuture Leicestershire service on Thursday 23 January.
GreenerFuture has been developed by Leicestershire CAN (Collaborate to Accelerate Net Zero), an Innovate UK-funded Net Zero Living Programme project to deliver carbon reduction services across the county.
Leicestershire CAN brings together partners across the public and private sectors, academic institutions and community energy groups so that businesses can learn how to cut their costs, comply with their supply chains partners, and develop new greener products and services.
The University’s School of Business is delivering the advisory service element of the project with a website containing a raft of tools and online resources to help SMEs kickstart, continue and evidence their green journey, and including 1-2-1 sustainability consultancy and expert advice.
Professor Paul Baines, from the University of Leicester School of Business, said: “We’re delighted to offer this unique carbon reduction service to help Leicestershire businesses and other organisations become more sustainable at no cost to them.
“This service is available in only a select few counties in the whole country, so we’re very privileged to be able to offer this in Leicestershire.
“Getting fully funded support from the project is ideal for businesses looking to strip out costs in their value chain to make themselves more competitive, upskill their employees on sustainable business, or learn how to develop new more sustainable products and services.”
At the launch, guests can find out more about the expertise and resources available and hear from inspiring business owners who have already taken steps towards net zero with the help of Leicestershire CAN.
Businesses will have an opportunity to try a simple diagnostic tool to identify their sustainability journey stage and the most beneficial actions they can take, based on their business needs.
Software developer wins multi-million-pound damages inquiry against ex business partner
Leicester-based software developer THJ Systems Ltd, advised by law firm Freeths, has won a multi-million-pound damages inquiry against ex business partner Dan Sheridan.
Following a trial in July, the High Court handed its judgment down awarding £3.35m in damages after a judge ruled Sheridan had failed to properly advertise the developer’s OptionNET Explorer software.
Both THJ and Sheridan founded the business in 2010 to combine OptionNET Explorer with Sheridan’s options trading mentoring business, Sheridan Options Mentoring Corp. THJ expelled Sheridan from the business in 2016 when the relationship broke down, citing various failings on the part of Sheridan – including his failure to properly advertise THJ’s software.
In 2022, The High Court ruled that there was justification for Sheridan being pushed out of OptionNET. A judge stated that his failure to advertise “robbed THJ of a benefit it reasonably expected to receive under the LLP Agreement.”
This recent trial considered factual and expert evidence that set out the extent to which THJ believed subscriber numbers had been negatively impacted by the failure to advertise by Sheridan.
The subscriber numbers had not increased as both had forecast and then flat-lined. The High Court was asked to rule on what should have happened, ultimately concluding that THJ had been denied the ability to earn profits of at least £3.35m.
Acting for THJ, Martin Noble, Intellectual Property & Media Partner at Freeths, said: “This judgment follows on from our successful visit to the Court of Appeal 12 months ago, when it put in place an injunction against Sheridan and reiterated that copyright did in fact subsist in the screenshots of the software that Sheridan had been using.
“THJ was able to demonstrate to the court’s satisfaction that the business had been adversely affected by Sheridan’s failures and an appropriate award has been made.
“It is unfortunate that Mr. Sheridan did not take advantage of the several opportunities he was previously given to avoid the trials in this case and the associated significant costs and expense. That should serve as a warning to businesses involved in a dispute to consider alternative dispute resolution at every stage.”
Andy Mitchell, owner of THJ, added: “We are pleased that this chapter of the proceedings has been decided in our favour. It goes some way to recognising the failures by my former business partner that resulted in a very significant loss of subscribers to my software.”
Midlands commercial contractor completes management buyout with seven-figure deal
A commercial contractor working on high-profile retail developments across the Midlands is set for growth following a management buyout supported by a £720,000 funding package from Mercia Debt and Frontier Development Capital.
GI Sykes, a third-generation family business, employs 40 permanent staff as well as dozens of independent contractors. The buy-out gives control of the business to the existing management team led by Richard Downs, who becomes MD, and including fourth-generation family member James Sykes (Operations Director), Anthony Bennett (Contracts Director) and Dan Westbury (Commercial Director).
The deal provides an exit for brothers Richard and Jason Sykes, grandsons of the founder, though they will continue to work with the business as consultants.
GI Sykes was established in the 1940s by Richard Sykes as a painting and decorator, and took advantage of the post-war housing boom to expand its services. The company now also delivers specialist coatings for cladding, roofing and flooring and carries out general building work, maintenance and repairs.
Clients include local authorities, developers, private landlords and commercial property agents. GI Sykes carries out work on many high-profile developments such as Harvey Norman’s flagship store at Merry Hill, MacArthur Glen Designer Outlets, River Island, Home Bargains and McDonalds restaurants.
Half of the company’s funding package comes from Mercia’s SME Loans Fund to support the buy-out, and the remainder from the Midlands Engine Investment Fund II, through its appointed fund manager Frontier Development Capital, to support the future growth of the business.
Richard Downs said: “The Sykes family has built a great business with a solid reputation and we are proud to be taking over the reins. We want to maintain the family business ethos, which is all the more relevant as some of our employees now have their own children working in the business.
“We will continue to provide the same first-class service to existing clients while seeking opportunities to expand our service lines and client base. We aim to achieve steady growth, while continuing to support our loyal workforce and, through our apprenticeship scheme, nurture a new generation of skilled tradesmen in the region.”
Hospitality software firm acquired
Mews, the hospitality cloud, has acquired Clarity Hospitality Software Solutions, which has its UK office in Leicestershire.
Clarity was founded in New Zealand in 1992 to provide property and event management systems to upmarket properties and hotels.
In 2016, Clarity opened its UK office and now provides its solutions and services to hundreds of hotel groups, event venues and independent hotels across APAC and the UK, managing thousands of rooms and maintaining a profitable business.
Mews is used by hundreds of hotels in APAC and the UK. The acquisition increases the presence of Mews in these regions as more hotels adopt its technology to revolutionize their guest offering.
Mews has experienced significant momentum over the last year, including a valuation crossing $1 billion, surpassing 75,000 hospitality staff platform users worldwide and increased its customers in the UK by 42% and APAC by 16%.
Matt Welle, CEO of Mews, said: “We’re excited to partner with a team with deep industry knowledge who will help to continue transforming the industry across the world.
“This acquisition takes us one step further on our vision to build a truly connected network of hotels globally, and we look forward to working with even more customers in the UK and APAC who believe in a future of personalized hospitality, enabled by technology.”
Richard Valtr, founder of Mews, added: “This partnership represents a fantastic investment into the APAC and UK markets, where we continue seeing hospitality brands adopting cloud technologies to streamline operations and reimagine the guest experience. We’re excited to welcome Clarity into the Mews ecosystem.”
Dougall Love, Owner and CEO of Clarity Hospitality Software, said: “For us, great hospitality technology is all about streamlining tasks to increase productivity, provide a top-class experience to guests and driving repeat and referral business, making for more efficient and profitable hospitality businesses.
“Mews truly shares our vision of providing remarkable guest experiences and we’re excited to continue supporting our customers with world-class resources as we join forces with Mews.”
Northampton frozen food distributor sold to national food supplier
Northampton-based frozen food distributor Central Foods has been sold to a national food producer and wholesaler, Gressingham Group.
Central Foods has revenues of over £50m and has firmly established itself as a key independent supplier of brand and own-brand frozen food to the UK hospitality industry since it was founded in 1996. Its customers include Bidfood, Brakes, Whitbread and Greene King.
It has been purchased by Suffolk-headquartered Gressingham Group, owner of the retail brand Gressingham duck, as well as well-known wholesale foodservice specialists including Reids of Norwich, JF Edwards, and Peter Thomson Group.
MHA’s corporate finance team was the lead adviser to Central Foods throughout the sale process, which included identifying potential partners both in the UK and internationally who were capable of protecting Central Foods’ customer relationships and team culture, while enabling the shareholders to meet their personal objectives. MHA’s advisory role also involved commercial and tax advice.
Gressingham Group was selected as a partner due to its alignment with Central Foods’ values and culture as well as its market reputation.
For Gressingham Group, the acquisition complements its growing offering in the UK food sector and Central Foods’ founders, Gordon and Alison Lauder, will remain involved in the business as existing staff step into new management roles to ensure the company’s continued success.
Gordon and Alison Lauder, founders, Central Foods, said: “We believed it would be a challenging brief to identify a partner which would complement Central Foods’ business, safeguard our culture, and offer security and progression opportunities for our staff.
“MHA’s guidance to prepare for the transaction was comprehensive, and the targeted process the team delivered yielded options which meant we could focus on selecting the best partner for Central Foods.
“We placed our trust in the MHA team who consistently provided incisive commercial advice and hands-on support with detailed aspects of the negotiation. The MHA team’s proactive communication and collaborative approach was fundamental to ensuring we reached this significant milestone.”
James Lawson, partner at MHA Corporate Finance, and MHA’s lead on the transaction, said: “Our process garnered interest from a number of potential strategic acquirers on an international basis, however Gressingham Group’s complementary UK market reputation and similar culture set it apart.
“It’s heartening to know we have helped deliver a transaction which enables the founders to achieve their personal objectives and we are certain this new partnership will see Central Foods and Gressingham Group continue to go from strength to strength.”
William Buchanan, director, Gressingham Group, said: “We are excited to bring Central Foods into Gressingham Group.
“The business opens up a new market category for us and its reputation for excellent products and service complements our existing presence in the foodservice sector. We look forward to continuing to make frozen food wholesalers’ lives easier.”
Nottingham businesswoman recognised as a #iAlso100 Honoree by f:Entrepreneur
Nottingham businesswoman Tara Askham, founder of TKA Finance Training, has been selected as one of this year’s #iAlso100 by f:Entrepreneur, celebrating her remarkable achievements as a female entrepreneur and her commitment to empowering others through accessible finance education and mentoring and coaching.
The #iAlso100 campaign, launched in 2018, shines a spotlight on women who are driving change in their fields while juggling multifaceted lives. This year, the campaign continues its mission to inspire, support, and showcase the growing trend of women redefining entrepreneurship and creating new measures of success across industries.
TKA Finance Training, Tara’s business is dedicated to demystifying accounting and finance for non-finance managers, entrepreneurs, and business owners. Through interactive courses and real-life case studies, Tara empowers decision-makers to confidently navigate financial concepts like profit and loss accounts and balance sheets to drive business growth and efficiency.
From her beginnings as an admin apprentice to becoming a social enterprise co-founder and award-winning educator and subject matter expert to global accountancy bodies, Tara’s career has been defined by resilience and innovation. A published author, volunteer mentor, and a proponent of sustainability and accessibility in business, Tara embodies the spirit of the #iAlso campaign.
“I am honored to be recognised as part of the #iAlso100. My mission is to inspire others, particularly women, to see finance not as a barrier but as a pathway to opportunity,” said Tara. “I look forward to contributing to the f: Entrepreneur community and helping other female entrepreneurs to develop strong financial foundations for lasting success.”
Through her mentorship and volunteering roles with organizations like UnLtd, UK Government Help to Grow Management Scheme, NatWest Charity S&CC, and Santander Women in Business, Tara is dedicated to fostering a supportive ecosystem for entrepreneurs. Her vision aligns with f: Entrepreneur’s goal to increase female-led businesses from 20% to 30% by 2030.
New Year’s resolutions – seek a fresh PRspective from the media: by Greg Simpson, founder of Press For Attention PR
Greg Simpson, founder of Press For Attention PR, helps you achieve your 2025 PR resolutions.
It’s that time of year when we’re making resolutions. Whether health, wealth, or just plain happiness, we’re all at it. How many you’ve already broken…
Of course, to do these properly, we need targets or good old ‘goals’ if you prefer and crucially, we need to know where we are starting from.
This should be the case with your PR efforts too. You may have a resolution to make a more strategic effort with your PR campaign or perhaps you want to rekindle a campaign that spluttered out a little last year?
Perish the thought but maybe you didn’t do ANY PR in 2024 whatsoever. It has been known.
As we all know, what gets measured gets managed. So, what might you measure with regards to your PR efforts this year and against what benchmarks?
You might look at how many stories you published and issued and how many got used. This is what we call your ‘hit-rate’. How well did you do? For some, the figures will be reassuringly high.
I pride myself on a 100 percent hit rate for my clients but that’s my job and I will only release stories I know will get covered and make a difference for my client.
You may have different pressures.
What about the amount of stories you started but honestly, never finished? Maybe time got the better of you or the moment passed? Perhaps you lacked a decent picture or couldn’t herd the cats into place before the news angle fizzled out?
This happens a lot, don’t worry.
You might measure how often your pictures got used, whether your quotes were included or check out how many brand mentions you managed to squeeze in.
Many people like to consider the cost/value ratio of advertising v editorial. Essentially how much you ‘paid’ in editorial resource via an agency or in-house v how much that same space would cost if bought as an advert.
I do not do this, it is pretty much taboo now in PR for various reasons I won’t bore you with, but it might help as ONE metric to consider.
Rather than this, I’d measure the tone of the coverage. Go for quality over quantity. Does it portray your business as you would wish?
Also, was the coverage in the right place?
You can compare all sorts of things and even compare versus your competitors, but the key thing is to go for something you can measure fairly easily that makes a difference to you and preferably you can check quarterly. That way you can address problems or embrace opportunities in a far more timely and effective manner.
Finally, do you know what your target media thinks about you? Do they know you? Do they know exactly what you do?
That research is incredibly powerful.
We are offering the target media audit worth £250 as a free service throughout January and February. Get in touch if you’d like us to help you discover what your target media thinks and knows about you.
A former business journalist, Greg Simpson is the author of The Small Business Guide to PR and has been recognised as one of the UK’s top 5 PR consultants, having set up Press For Attention PR in 2008.
He has worked for FTSE 100 firms, charities and start-ups and conducted press conferences with Sir Richard Branson and James Caan. His background ensures a deep understanding of every facet of a successful PR campaign – from a journalist’s, client’s, and consultant’s perspective.
See this column in the January issue of East Midlands Business Link Magazine here.
2025 Business Predictions: Vinod Patel, Deal Advisory Partner at BDO LLP
It’s that time of year, when Business Link Magazine invites the region’s business leaders to offer up their predictions for the year ahead.
It has become something of a tradition, given that we’ve been doing this now for over 30 years.
Here we speak to Vinod Patel, Deal Advisory Partner at BDO LLP.
Whilst macro-economic headwinds have continued to create a difficult trading environment for many regional East Midlands businesses, their resilience and ambition remains unwavering. The region is well known for its strong manufacturing, logistics and technology base and these sectors will continue to evolve in the coming months. Businesses that successfully leverage emerging technologies and automation will attain enhanced productivity and efficiencies. This is increasingly important in a time of labour challenges (availability and cost), tighter budgets impacting operational and capex spend and higher ‘growth’ targets.
It goes without saying that the Autumn Budget has definitely added an additional layer of pressure for many businesses; notwithstanding, it has provided a degree of certainty about how the UK and regional East Midlands economy will look in the coming years. Yes, the National Insurance Contribution (NIC) increase will sting for many, undoubtedly impacting on cost bases in 2025. For some, this will result in a reduction in headcount, a pause on pay rises and a freeze on recruitment, amongst other things. What it’s likely to also bring, is a greater examination of pricing strategies (by those businesses that are able to) in response to increased costs.
Against what remains a challenging business landscape, the East Midlands region must continue to invest in education and skills development, ensuring that the workforce is equipped to meet the demands of a rapidly changing job market. Local universities and colleges will continue to attract students and researchers, contributing to innovation and economic development. However, this also requires greater collaboration with businesses to provide tailored training programmes, fostering innovation and entrepreneurship. Retention of talent in the East Midlands is also critical and the region’s strategic location certainly offers a varied mix of urban and rural living which appeals to a broad talent pool. This is complemented by affordable housing, high quality education, healthcare and a range cultural and recreational activities.
Of equal importance, is the strong transport infrastructure, including major motorways, rail links (although these would benefit from increased investment) and proximity to East Midlands Airport, all supporting increased national and international trade in 2025 and beyond.
Overall, there is a growing sense of optimism and excitement for the East Midlands in 2025 and beyond, thanks to a relatively stable base post-election. Additionally, government initiatives and local enterprise partnerships are actively supporting growth through investment in infrastructure, business support services, and skills development. This was evidenced most recently, through the approval of the £160 million East Midlands Investment Zone (“EMIZ”) and East Midlands Freeport investing more than £2 million in the Future Energy Skills Hub (“FESH”). Funding of this nature certainly helps to create a more business-friendly environment that encourages investment and expansion – something that a number of East Midlands businesses and entrepreneurs are focused on in the coming months.
Combined with the market expecting interest rate reductions during the next 12 months (likely to be welcomed by many), this may further strengthen appetite for deals – trade, private equity, debt and IPOs. M&A activity could also be triggered by a desire to consolidate, particularly in those markets that are becoming increasingly fragmented and/or facing revenue and margin pressures.
In short, investment in people, technology and infrastructure must continue to be the priority, to ensure that the region (society and economy) remains competitive and forward-thinking.
Permanent placements fall at fastest pace for 16 months in the Midlands
The latest KPMG and REC UK Report on Jobs survey, compiled by S&P Global, signalled the sharpest fall in permanent placements since August 2023 in the final month of 2024. Temp billings continued to increase, albeit at a softer rate than that seen in November.
Demand for permanent staff continued to fall in December, with the rate of decrease the most pronounced in four-and-a-half years.
Concurrently, recruiters suggested that redundancies had contributed to additional candidates being available to work, as indicated by sustained increases in both permanent and temporary staff supply.
On the pay front, permanent salary inflation remained modest, and well below the series average. Temp pay meanwhile rose for the second time in three months.
The KPMG and REC, UK Report on Jobs: Midlands is compiled by S&P Global from responses to questionnaires sent to around 100 recruitment and employment consultancies in the Midlands.
Sharpest fall in permanent placements for 16 months
December data signalled a further decline in the number of permanent placements made by recruitment agencies in the Midlands. Staff appointments were reportedly curtailed by hesitancy among firms to hire amid weak business confidence and economic uncertainty. The pace of contraction was marked and the most pronounced since August 2023.
At the UK level, the Midlands saw the second-softest drop in permanent placements, behind London.
Temp billings across the Midlands saw growth for the ninth consecutive month at the end of 2024. The rise in temporary staff placements contrasted with the UK average which signalled a solid decrease. Panellists noted that the expansion was sometimes due to new client wins. That said, the rate of increase in the Midlands was the softest seen for three months, and modest overall.
Permanent vacancies in the Midlands decreased for the seventh successive month during December. Of the four monitored English regions, the Midlands saw the second-sharpest reduction in demand for permanent staff, with the overall decline the most marked since June 2020.
With regards to temporary vacancies, the Midlands posted a fourth consecutive decrease in December. That said, the reduction in the Midlands was the softest of the four monitored regions.
Stronger rise in permanent staff availability
The supply of permanent staff rose again in December, thereby extending the current sequence of increasing candidate numbers to 21 months. Moreover, the pace of growth accelerated from November and was the steepest in 2024. Of the four monitored regions, the Midlands saw the strongest rise. Anecdotal evidence suggested that redundancies in the market had boosted the supply of candidates.
Temporary candidate availability in the Midlands increased for the twentieth consecutive month during December. The rate of growth in temp candidate supply eased from November to reach a three-month low. Panellists stated that new candidates had become available in the temporary staff market. The pace of the upturn was the second-strongest of the four monitored English regions, behind the North of England.
Permanent salaries rise moderately
Permanent starting salaries in the Midlands increased again in December, thereby extending the current sequence of inflation that began in March 2021. The rate of salary inflation quickened slightly from the previous survey period, though remained below the average seen over 2024. The rise in salaries for new permanent joiners was linked to shortages of suitably skilled candidates. The pace of salary inflation was weaker than the UK average.
Midlands recruitment firms registered an increase in temp pay rates for the second time in three months in December. The pace of wage inflation was only modest, however. Where temp hourly pay rose, recruiters pointed to the need to hire skilled staff, though this was partly offset by higher candidate availability.
Kate Holt, People Consulting Partner at KPMG in the Midlands, said: “While the Midlands saw the second-softest fall in permanent placements in the UK during December, the region’s businesses are still holding back on recruitment against an uncertain backdrop.
“A drop in permanent vacancies – the most marked since June 2020 – shows firms are worried about the economic outlook, despite signs of more stable conditions in 2025.
“If uncertainty prevails, Midlands firms must consider longer-term solutions to secure the skills they need to grow – whether this means investing more heavily in learning and development for existing staff or adapting their hiring strategies to attract the right candidates.”
Neil Carberry, REC Chief Executive, said: “This report emphasises a weak mood in some businesses as they built their budgets for this year, and made changes designed to save on costs after a tough Budget. That said, sentiment can change quickly. Temp billings across the Midlands saw growth for the ninth consecutive month at the end of 2024.
“December is always a hiring low point, and a new year brings new hope – with inflation under control, low unemployment and economic growth expected, the fundamentals are better than many appreciate. It is what happens now, as firms return to the market in January, that will decide the path ahead.
“Recruitment is one to watch in early 2025 because it is one of the earliest indicators of a broader economic recovery, with any sign of a turn hugely significant with the sector contributing a massive £44.4bn to the UK economy in 2023.”
Derby technology company ends year on a high with £7m turnover
A Derby-based technology company is celebrating a year of growth and innovation, closing 2024 with a record-breaking £7 million turnover – successfully quadrupling revenue in three years.
Alton Valley, based on Pride Park, has grown from a start-up into a trusted supplier of advanced network and security solutions, primarily serving the defence engineering sector.
Led by managing partner Carl Hamill, the achievement marks a turning point for the firm, which is now expanding its services across the UK and pursuing new opportunities to partner with organisations operating in mission-critical environments.
“We are incredibly proud to close the year on such a high note,” said Carl. “This milestone is a testament to the dedication and expertise of our team, as well as the trust our clients place in us to safeguard their critical systems. We remain committed to innovation and growth as we enter 2025.”
Carl added: “Technology evolves quickly, but so do the threats we face. Our ability to anticipate and address these changes is key to our growth. Organisations trust us to provide market leading security solutions, raising industry standards and we are honoured to be their partner in navigating these challenges.”
Supporting this ambitious growth strategy is newly appointed Jacob Watts, Alton Valley’s key growth partner.
He said: “I’m thrilled to be part of such an accomplished group and deeply impressed by everything they’ve achieved so far. Joining a team with this level of expertise is incredibly exciting and provides a strong foundation to drive continued growth and success.
“Our focus is not only on advancing technology but also on identifying new opportunities to enhance our services and deliver value to a broader client base. This record-breaking year demonstrates our ability to grow while maintaining the exceptional quality Alton Valley is known for.
“As we expand into new sectors, our goal is to create even more opportunities for collaboration, ensuring businesses across the UK can benefit from our expertise and innovative solutions. This achievement motivates us to build on our success through sustainable growth.”
OHEAP Fire and Security begins 2025 with merger
Derby-headquartered OHEAP Fire and Security is merging Risk Assessment Solutions into its range of fire protection, security, and training services, enabling it to offer a holistic safety risk management solution to all its customers.
The merger will include services such as health and safety training, risk assessments, and compliance documentation management in the OHEAP Fire and Security portfolio. This gives customers easier access to a full range of protection services.
Nicholas Heap, Managing Director of OHEAP Fire and Security, said: “We are delighted to be able to add additional, critical services to our portfolio as we bring Risk Assessment Solutions under the OHEAP umbrella.
“It means we can provide a wraparound protection and risk management solution for our customers, giving them peace of mind as they focus on their day jobs. This latest growth means we can better support the Risk Assessment Solution customers with a wider array of services to help them grow safely and securely.”
Nicholas concluded: “We are committed to ensuring we are the best people to help you protect your business or organisation, whether this is through additional services, the best people or the highest quality service. We aim to make OHEAP the protection partner of choice.”
Nottingham marketing and PR agency kickstarts 2025 with new office
Nottingham-based marketing and PR agency V Formation has marked the start of 2025 by moving into a new office in the city’s Lace Market.
The Penthouse at Bridlesmith Walk accommodates its team of 13 marketing and PR professionals and business support staff as well as providing space for further expansion.
Led by directors Hilary Campton and Sue Carr, V Formation has demonstrated consistent and sustained growth since it was established in 2007. Over the last two years, the team has continued to expand, with four strategic hires made to support the company’s increasingly diverse portfolio of clients.
“Our move to a larger base in the heart of Nottingham’s Lace Market marks an exciting new chapter for V Formation,” Hilary Campton says.
“Having recently grown the team, we needed a more flexible, collaborative space that facilitates creativity and allows room for further growth. The Penthouse is the ideal fit, and we look forward to welcoming our clients to our new home here in the city centre.”
Sue Carr adds: “We are delighted to reach this next milestone in V Formation’s journey. The new office not only reflects our growth but also reinforces our commitment to providing an environment that fosters personal and professional development, team wellbeing, and continuous learning.
“From our new base, we look forward to supporting existing and new clients, developing and implementing marketing and PR strategies that deliver tangible results.”
Sale to be explored for Leicestershire caravan retailer
Leicestershire caravan retailer Ryedale Caravan & Leisure has instructed PKF Smith Cooper to assist with undertaking a review into the business’s current financial position and options available, along with pursuing a marketing strategy in an attempt to find a purchaser of the business.
Brett Barton and Dean Nelson, Business Restructuring and Recovery Partners at PKF Smith Cooper, are actively engaging with the directors to achieve a successful rescue.
Based in Shepshed, Ryedale Caravan & Leisure is one of Leicestershire’s largest caravan and motorcaravan dealerships, headed up by directors Andy Iliffe, Steve Morris and Dave Steer, who have more than 90 years’ experience combined in the trade.
In addition to selling new and used caravans and motorhomes as well as caravan accessories, the Leicestershire company owns a caravan repair workshop and is one of the Midlands’ leading insurance repair specialists.
The Ryedale Caravan & Leisure dealership is situated on a 2-acre site just north of Leicester.
Commenting on the situation, the directors of Ryedale Caravan & Leisure said: “We are working with Brett Barton and Dean Nelson from PKF Smith Cooper, who are assisting us in reviewing the Company’s options and aiding with the marketing of the business for sale.”
£5.4m Nottingham College Centre for Supported Learners reaches completion
Midlands contractor, G F Tomlinson, has completed works for the pivotal new centre for Students with Learning Difficulties and/or Disabilities (The Gateway) at Nottingham College’s Basford campus.
The Gateway is a new two-storey building providing bespoke facilities for students with learning difficulties and/or disabilities (SLDD). Opening to students in February 2025, it comprises 13 classrooms, a teaching kitchen, dining area and ancillary spaces across a gross internal floor area of 1,350m2, as well as associated external works to the grounds.
A major build for the Nottingham College portfolio, The Gateway was procured via Pagabo’s Medium Works Framework and is one of two major new additions to the college’s Basford campus that G F Tomlinson has worked on this year.
The contractor completed the Construction Skills Centre (CSC) in November – a new build specialist facility offering flexible teaching and learning spaces to help meet the growing need for training for construction skilled trades in the local area.
Both buildings are designed to align with the Department for Education’s (DfE) output specification and support the sustainability ambitions of Nottingham College, working towards becoming carbon zero by 2030.
G F Tomlinson provided £2.1m of Social Value Added opportunities for the local community. This included organised site visits, regular newsletters and career talks with students from the college. 791 local student engagements, 187.5 hours of work experience placements and 48 apprentice weeks equating to 1,804 apprentice hours were provided.
Other social value initiatives included partnering with local SME’s Eastledge Ltd, JR Howitt Decorators, Morecroft Electrical Ltd, Optimus Architectural Ltd, SDS Metalwork, Telling Finishings Ltd, Vision Joinery Ltd and William Bailey Ltd where they collectively made a much-needed contribution to the Remar Nottingham Community Kitchen Foodbank, donating £300 worth of essential food items to assist local families in need.
The scheme incorporates several sustainability elements such as the installation of 106 PV panels, four air source heat pumps and high spec insulation meaning the new building needs much less energy to heat, and water wastage will be reduced due to state-of-the-art tap and plumbing solutions.
During the project, 774 miles were driven using low-emission vehicles and 79% local labour and 76% local spend was achieved within 20 miles of site. 1.5 tonnes of waste materials were rescued from the waste stream and 100% of site waste was recycled, aligning with the target of offsetting carbon during the project, in line with the Government’s Net Zero agenda.
Adrian Grocock, Group Managing Director of G F Tomlinson, said: “Building on our extensive experience within the Education sector, we’re pleased to have completed two pivotal educational schemes for Nottingham College, procured through the Pagabo National Framework for Medium Works.
“The Gateway will provide much-needed facilities to support the learning and development of SLDD students at the Basford campus, and alongside the Construction Skills Centre (CSC), we’re delighted to have played a critical role in bringing these landmark buildings to fruition.”
Carl Ara, Assistant Principal – Basford, said: “We are delighted with the new facilities at The Gateway, a purpose-built, dedicated space designed to support our students with learning difficulties and/or disabilities. This exceptional facility includes a wonderful outdoor sensory garden for students to enjoy, offering a calming and engaging environment.
“The interior spaces are currently being designed, and we are thrilled about the creative and functional features being incorporated. Once complete, The Gateway will be an inspiring, inclusive space where our supported learning students can truly thrive and reach their full potential.”
Adam Brumfitt, East Midlands Regional Delivery Manager at Pagabo, said: “Having supported the client in navigating the challenges associated with the procurement of these projects including tight timescales, the outcomes resulting from the appointment of GF Tomlinson for both projects via our Medium Works framework are great to see.”
Edge-of-town office letting makes a splash
Salloway Property Consultants have let a well-known office/headquarters premise on one of Derby’s key connecting routes.
The property, a detached 10,400 sq ft office building located on Sir Frank Whittle Road/Stores Road, was originally leased by Barclays Bank plc as a banking centre but was more recently occupied by the Department for Work and Pensions for use as a Job Centre, thanks to a previous letting secured by Salloway in the midst of the Covid-19 pandemic.
The new tenant, MWH Treatment Limited, part of the RSK Group, are a provider of water, wastewater and environmental services across the UK.
They have taken a new lease of the property as part of a strategic relocation and in order to enable them to create their own new regional headquarters, capable of accommodating their growing team and allowing for more collaboration, advanced technology integration and an enhanced working environment which aligns with the company’s forward-thinking ethos and business objectives.
Valery Shchukin, Project Manager at MWH Treatment Limited, said: “We are thrilled to announce our move to this exceptional new facility and extend our heartfelt thanks to Salloway Property Consultants and the landlord for their unwavering support throughout the process.
“The seamless transition has allowed us to remain focused on what matters most – our team’s future. With its strategic location, modern design, and spacious layout, this new regional headquarters is perfectly tailored to support our growing team.
“Designed to foster collaboration and innovation, the space, enhanced by minor refurbishment and IT upgrades, provides the ideal environment for our expanding team and long-term vision.”
Hugo Beresford, Associate Director at Salloway Property Consultants, was the agent responsible for the deal on behalf of his private pension fund client.
Beresford said: “This letting represents one of, if not, the largest single office letting which occurred within Derby in 2024 and I am delighted that I was able to negotiate and agree terms with such a high-quality tenant.
“I wish MWH all the best with their new premises, which I am sure will be perfect for their purposes. They have significant plans for the building which I look forward to seeing come to fruition.”
The landlord was represented by Hugo Beresford (Salloway Property Consultants) working alongside Philippa Edwards (Edwards Clegg Solicitors), and the new tenant was represented by Land Law LLP.
Next phase of development takes step forward at Vesuvius Worksop
CEG has instructed a £2 million construction contract to deliver highway infrastructure works which will facilitate the next phase of development at the Vesuvius development in Worksop.
The latest works will include an extension of the existing spine road, construction of a new roundabout and connections to all utilities. As well as providing access for the local bus service into the site, this will release the remaining sixteen acres of development land.
As a result, a deal has been secured for an acre of land to Admirals Yard Self Storage which will deliver a new secure storage facility.
Rob Sadler from Admirals Yard said: “Admirals Yard Self Storage is pleased to announce plans for a new personal and business storage facility on land adjacent to Asda and the new Fire Station.”
Antonia Martin Wright, Director of Commercial Development at CEG, said: “The quality of the first phase has ensured this is the prime industrial and business location in Worksop.
“This latest phase of infrastructure work will provide serviced land for development and I’m pleased to welcome Admirals Yard Self Storage to the site. We are marketing design and build development opportunities from 10,000 sq ft upwards and welcoming engagement from occupiers on all commercial basis.”
The 20-week programme of works will commence in January and will be delivered by Caddick Civil Engineering.
DTRE and FHP have been appointed as agents to market the site.
Rob Kos, Associate Partner at DTRE, said: “This latest phase of works continues to demonstrate CEG’s commitment to the scheme and by spring next year there will be two serviced and development-ready plots for local businesses.
“We are currently having a number of positive conversations with occupiers and purchasers alike and as there is such a shortage of well-located supply we expect to announce more deals imminently.”
Vesuvius is CEG’s regeneration of a 45-acre brownfield site close to the M1 and A1(M).
A 70,000 sq ft ASDA food store opened in 2020, followed by Travis Perkins and Nottinghamshire Fire and Rescue’s £3.4m new fire station.
CEG speculatively delivered the first phase of 16 light industrial units in summer 2021. These were let to a range of occupiers including Kitchen Craft, Escape Hot Tubs, Rother Valley Optics, electric vehicle charging specialist PowerPoint and Shark Eye’s research and design centre.
There are also three food and beverage units at the site, including Burger King.
