Gateley RJA secures Eastern Procurement framework appointment

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Gateley RJA secures Eastern Procurement framework appointment
Leicester-based Gateley RJA, the specialist quantity surveying, employer’s agent, project management and clerk of works arm of professional services group, Gateley, has secured a place on Eastern Procurement’s £17m development consultancy services framework. Eastern Procurement drives procurement solutions for councils, housing providers and other public bodies across the East of England. Its development consultancy framework has been designed as a one-stop shop for providing built environment services. Initially appointed for four years, Gateley RJA will deliver employer’s agent, quantity surveying and clerk of works services across core regions including the East of England, East Midlands, North and North East Lincolnshire, Milton Keynes and Buckinghamshire. Steven Collin, managing director at Gateley RJA, said: “We are thrilled to be awarded a place on Eastern Procurement’s development consultancy framework which will see us support with built environment services across the East of England. “Eastern Procurement prides itself on quality and efficiency, so the appointment really is testament to the high standards produced by our dedicated teams across schemes for the private rented and affordable housing sectors.”

Viridis backs ‘Sustainable Development of the Year’ at the East Midlands Bricks Awards 2025

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Viridis backs ‘Sustainable Development of the Year’ at the East Midlands Bricks Awards 2025
Viridis Building Services Ltd has joined the sponsor line up for the East Midlands Bricks Awards 2025, backing the Sustainable Development of the Year category for a further year. Growing your business by building greener, Viridis are experts in providing sustainable passive environmental building services solutions incorporating renewable, low carbon, low energy, H.V.A.C, M.E.P, systems for the built environment whilst meeting client’s aspirations, helping you create sustainable, appealing and cost-effective buildings on the journey to Net Zero. Speaking with Business Link, a spokesperson for Viridis Building Services Ltd said: “We’re proud to once again sponsor the Sustainable Development of the Year award at the Bricks Awards. At Viridis Building Services, sustainability isn’t just a buzzword – it’s the foundation of everything we do, which is why we are so passionate about sponsoring this particular award. “Last year’s event was a fantastic showcase of innovation, collaboration and local talent, and it was inspiring to see so many projects delivering real, measurable impacts, having positive impacts on local social aspects, the environment and the local economy. We believe that building sustainably should also mean building smart, achieving environmental excellence without excessive cost, and this is what we saw last year. “This year, we’re especially looking forward to reviewing and understanding the amazing projects completed and in the pipeline, which promote sustainability in its greatest form. It allows opportunity for connecting with like-minded professionals, celebrating the power of local collaboration, and shining a spotlight on those who are pushing boundaries in sustainable design and construction. “We strongly encourage everyone in the industry to nominate the projects that are helping to shape a greener, more responsible future.” The East Midlands Bricks Awards, which will take place on Thursday 2nd October at Nottingham’s famous Trent Bridge Cricket Ground, celebrates the successes of property and construction companies in Derbyshire, Nottinghamshire, Leicestershire, Lincolnshire, and Northamptonshire. Recognising those behind the changing landscape of the East Midlands, the occasion highlights development projects, businesses, and people in commercial and public building across the region – from office, industrial and residential schemes, through to community projects such as leisure schemes and schools. It also toasts the work of architects, agencies, and those behind large schemes. Welcoming almost 150 professionals, nominating a company or project for the awards is a great way to showcase your successes, recognise your team’s efforts, bolster morale, and reach our audience of over 60,000 business readers, while also offering a chance to connect with respected professionals. It’s completely free to enter and making the top three finalists in your category also wins you free tickets to the event.

To make a nomination for the East Midlands Bricks Awards 2025, please click here.

Supporting imagery, video, documents, or links to these, can be sent to bricks@blmgroup.co.uk. Video nomination pitches are also welcome as an alternative or companion to written entries. Categories include: All finalists will have the chance to take home the Overall Winner award, which this year comes with a grand prize of a year of marketing/publicity worth £20,000, with the opportunity to split or gift the marketing to a charity of your choice.

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. Upon submitting a nomination, we will get in touch for any information, imagery, and video nominees would like to be featured on their showcase page.

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:

With a limited number of sponsorship opportunities remaining, please contact Angie Cooper at a.cooper@blmgroup.co.uk to learn more if you are interested in becoming an East Midlands Bricks Awards 2025 sponsor.

Pink Storage expands in Midlands with £1.5m Nottingham deal

April Lara
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Pink Storage expands in Midlands with £1.5m Nottingham deal

Self-storage operator Pink Storage has acquired Nottingham-based facility StoreWise in a deal valued at £1.1 million, with a further £370,000 committed to upgrades. The 1.3-acre site, which houses 102 existing storage units, will be rebranded and integrated into Pink Storage’s tech-enabled service model, bringing the company’s UK footprint to 22 sites, a 22% portfolio growth this year.

The company plans to add 150 new units, boosting overall capacity for business and domestic users in the East Midlands. Upgrades will include resurfaced roadways, 24/7 CCTV, automatic number plate recognition, and digital access via online sign-up and secure PIN codes.

The site remains operational during the transition. Around 100 existing customers are being migrated to Pink Storage’s platform, with continuity provided by the existing site manager, who will remain in post.

This is the company’s fourth site addition in 2025, underscoring its strategic push into the Midlands and North. Pink Storage is seeking further acquisition targets as part of its growth strategy, which is focused on scalable technology, regional expansion, and improving access to secure storage in underserved locations.

Nottingham BTR project approved with design changes

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Nottingham BTR project approved with design changes

A major build-to-rent (BTR) scheme adjacent to Nottingham railway station has secured planning approval, with conditions requiring changes to its visual design.

The second phase of MRP Nottingham’s Queens Road development will deliver 247 residential units across three connected buildings ranging from 8 to 18 storeys. It follows the earlier delivery of a 406-bed student accommodation block on the same site, forming part of a long-term redevelopment of this strategic city centre gateway.

The new scheme includes a mix of studio, one-, two-, and three-bedroom apartments, alongside shared four—and five-bedroom units. The project is designed as a fully build-to-rent offering and aligns with rising investor and institutional interest in rental housing in key urban centres.

However, Nottingham City Council’s planning committee approved the application to revise the top three floors to deliver a “softer” visual profile. The director of planning and transport, in consultation with committee leadership, has been delegated final design decisions.

Located at the historic “Wagon Works” site on the corner of Queens Road and London Road, the project sits opposite the Hicking Building, now a successful mixed-use redevelopment, reinforcing the area’s ongoing urban regeneration.

UK explores hydrogen blending for gas supply decarbonisation

April Lara
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UK explores hydrogen blending for gas supply decarbonisation

The UK Government is actively considering introducing hydrogen blending into the national gas network as part of wider decarbonisation efforts. According to energy minister Michael Shanks, a formal decision is expected shortly following an evidence-gathering phase assessing the impact on consumers and infrastructure.

Blending up to 20% hydrogen with natural gas is technically feasible with most existing boilers and appliances in domestic and commercial settings. Gas network operators have indicated that current infrastructure could handle such a mix without significant modifications, offering a transitional path toward lower-carbon heating.

Scotland is leading several green hydrogen production projects to leverage the country’s renewable energy capacity. Recent developments include a large-scale hydrogen facility approved in Kintore, Aberdeenshire, and discussions around the Grangemouth industrial site as a potential hydrogen hub.

While hydrogen presents a cleaner alternative to natural gas, its lower energy density requires greater volumes to produce the same heat output. This raises ongoing questions about the viability of a 100% hydrogen gas grid for domestic use.

Tariff uncertainty triggers cautious recalibration among UK mid-market firms

April Lara
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Tariff uncertainty triggers cautious recalibration among UK mid-market firms

According to new research from Grant Thornton UK, UK mid-sized businesses are adjusting their international strategies amid growing trade pressures. While overall sentiment remains relatively strong, a shift in confidence is evident as decision-makers respond to an evolving global trade landscape.

The firm’s April 2025 Business Outlook Tracker found that while most mid-market leaders remain upbeat about the domestic economy in the short term, fewer expect their profits to rise, suggesting emerging caution. Optimism surrounding economic conditions slipped slightly, and profit expectations have seen a more notable drop.

Internationally, trade with the US is under review. Despite strong historical ties and growth potential, tariffs are causing businesses to rethink. A majority still see the US as a key market, but a growing number are preparing to scale back or exit entirely. Nearly half of firms with current US trade exposure expect to stop altogether, and only a minority foresee no disruption.

Barron McCann opens doors to future tech talent

April Lara
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Barron McCann opens doors to future tech talent

IT services firm Barron McCann recently hosted an employer engagement day for 15 students from Bemrose School in Derby, offering them hands-on exposure to workplace operations and technology. Aimed at students facing barriers to traditional work placements, the event focused on building skills and confidence through structured activities.

The day included a guided tour of the company’s Innovation Hub, warehouse, and training facilities, where students explored the operational side of an IT services business. They were then grouped to develop and present ideas around two business themes: social media and community engagement, and inclusion in the workplace.

The initiative also highlighted the importance of inclusive design, with students from the school’s SEND (Special Educational Needs and Disabilities) department contributing personal insights into accessibility challenges and improvements.

Barron McCann’s programme is part of a broader effort to support local talent pipelines and widen access to technology and business services careers. By engaging with secondary school students early on, the company is helping to address skills gaps while reinforcing its commitment to community partnerships and social value.

As corporate insolvencies hit 2025 high, full impact of current economic uncertainty yet to be felt, says R3 Midlands

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As corporate insolvencies hit 2025 high, full impact of current economic uncertainty yet to be felt, says R3 Midlands
Rising costs and ongoing economic and political uncertainty are continuing to drive corporate insolvencies upward, while an increasing number of local entrepreneurs are seeking insolvency and restructuring advice and considering the future of their businesses. This is according to the Midlands branch of the UK’s insolvency and restructuring trade body R3 and comes on the back of latest figures from the Insolvency Service which show that corporate insolvencies in England and Wales increased by 2.9% last month [April] to a total of 2,053 and by 13.2% compared to April 2023’s figure of 1,813. R3 Midlands chair Stephen Rome, a partner at law firm Penningtons Manches Cooper in the region, said: “April’s corporate insolvency figures were the highest we have seen since July 2024, with Creditors’ Voluntary Liquidations remaining the process companies most commonly enter into. “Their consistently high numbers reflect the ongoing challenges, high costs and political and economic uncertainty Midlands businesses face, as well as the toll these are taking on their finances and their confidence in their ability to turn their situation around. “Compulsory liquidations have also hit their highest level in more than five years as creditors chase down unpaid debts in an attempt to meet their own payment deadlines, led by the HMRC as the Government attempts to balance the national books. “April saw the introduction of the new rates for Employers’ National Insurance Contributions and Minimum Wage, which have increased overheads for local businesses at an already challenging time. Many companies will already have increased prices and cut expenditure to cope with the existing economic challenges and many, especially SMEs, will find it increasingly difficult to respond to further cost increases. “It is unlikely that we will see the full impact this will have on Midlands businesses until later in the year, but the prospect of these changes being introduced has influenced an increasing number of directors’ decisions to seek insolvency and restructuring advice and consider the future of their businesses. “The recent rise in unemployment indicates that the tax increases, along with the prospect of the Employment Rights Bill coming into law, has also affected hiring levels and investment as management teams wait to see how it will impact on their wage bills. We expect this to continue until the picture is clearer. “Alongside this, Midlands businesses have faced the impact of the introduction of the US tariffs. While some of the outcomes from the US President and Prime Minister’s recent announcement will be a relief to businesses in a range of sectors, a number of the details of the tariffs still need to be confirmed, and there is no denying their introduction will make it more expensive for local companies to export to America. “The uncertainty and unpredictability around US tariff policy generally is also likely to affect costs, growth and investment as both business owners and lenders will look at how the tariffs will affect revenue and profits and may choose to change their plans, or review or withdraw their funding once these have been considered. “Looking across the local economy, the sectoral picture is a mixed one. Construction continues to be affected by ongoing issues with the price of materials, payment and client hesitancy about commissioning new work, while the care sector is trying to navigate the Government’s proposals to end overseas recruitment for social care visas. “On a more positive note, Midlands retailers have benefited from the late Easter and improved weather, which has led to an increase in sales, and hospitality has also seen a rise in activity and spending levels. However, there is no escaping the fact that all of these sectors will be seriously affected by the changes to National Insurance and Minimum Wage, which will put a further squeeze on margins and increase costs, and could lead to more businesses becoming financially distressed. “R3’s message to anyone worried about the finances of their business is to seek professional advice as soon as concerns arise. It can be an incredibly hard conversation to have, but timely discussions with a qualified advisor may provide more options than waiting until a problem becomes more severe. “Most R3 members will give prospective clients a free initial consultation so they can learn more about the issues they face and outline the potential options to resolve them.”

Leisure centres in Lincoln to reopen under new operator

April Lara
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Leisure centres in Lincoln to reopen under new operator

Two leisure centres in Lincoln that abruptly shut down in April are set to reopen by mid-July under new management. The City of Lincoln Council has appointed Greenwich Leisure Limited (GLL) as the interim operator of Yarborough and Birchwood leisure centres following the collapse of the previous operator, Active Nation.

GLL, a not-for-profit social enterprise with over 250 leisure facilities across the UK, will manage both centres on a two-year contract. The council owns the buildings and moved quickly to secure a new operator after Active Nation ceased trading due to financial pressures, citing the energy crisis as a key factor. The council had offered a £500,000 support package, but the charity did not accept the terms.

Since the closure, the Lincoln City Foundation has maintained outdoor operations at both locations. GLL plans to upgrade facilities, replace gym equipment, and recruit staff across various roles. More details on programmes, memberships, and courses are expected to be released this summer.

The transition aims to minimise disruption to residents and maintain local access to fitness and wellbeing services, while providing stability for the council’s broader leisure strategy.

Nottinghamshire net zero specialists snapped up

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Nottinghamshire net zero specialists snapped up
Sureserve has acquired Nottinghamshire-based HI Group, a specialist in net zero strategy, design and programme management. HI Group operates as a managed service provider, acting as lead consultant to organisations embarking on their net zero journey and supporting them in their transition to low-carbon operation. The company has established a strong presence across complex property portfolios in the commercial estate sector in the region, working with both private and public organisations including Gloucestershire College and Duxford’s Imperial War Museum with a focused expertise in the further education sector. Over the past four years, HI Group has experienced strong growth, driven by increasing demand for decarbonisation services. The total volume of emissions it supports organisations in managing has grown from 3,800 tonnes in 2020 to over 120,000 tonnes in 2024, as a growing number of companies, including larger emitters, embrace the need to adopt structured pathways to net zero. Sureserve Group is one of the UK’s leading energy and compliance services providers, and the acquisition, which was finalised this month, further strengthens its position as a trusted partner in the renewables sector across the UK. Commenting on the acquisition, Graham Levinsohn, group CEO at Sureserve, said: “The acquisition of HI Group aligns with Sureserve’s mission – to be the trusted partner of choice to the public sector in delivering essential and affordable heating, energy savings and compliance solutions as we continue to play a key and progressive role in decarbonisation. “We are delighted to welcome HI Group and their employees to Sureserve and we look forward to working with HI Group’s clients, staff, and management in continuing to build on a successful platform.” Russell Burton, co-director at HI Group, said: “We are pleased to join the Sureserve at a time when the demand for structured, evidence-based net zero strategies is accelerating. From the outset, it was clear that Sureserve shared our values and our long-term commitment to enabling decarbonisation in the real economy.” Laura Bishop, co-director at HI Group, added: “This partnership gives us the opportunity to scale our delivery model, enhance our data services and continue supporting clients to plan and implement meaningful, measurable net zero programmes. We look forward to building the next phase of our journey together.”

New operations manager appointed at APSS

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New operations manager appointed at APSS
Lincolnshire-based commercial interior design and fit out company, APSS, has appointed John Bysouth as its new operations manager following the recent restructure of the senior leadership team. John steps into the role after over a decade with the business. He has consistently demonstrated exceptional leadership, dedication, and a deep understanding of the commercial interiors industry. John’s journey with APSS began over 10 years ago as joinery manager. With a hands-on approach and a keen eye for detail, he quickly progressed into project management, leading a wide range of successful fit-out and refurbishment projects. His ability to oversee operations from the ground up—paired with outstanding organisational skills—has made him a vital part of the APSS team. In his new role, John will be responsible for overseeing day-to-day operations across the business, ensuring projects continue to run smoothly, efficiently, and to the high standard customers have come to expect. Commenting on his promotion, John said: “I’ve had the chance to grow with the business, and stepping into the role of Operations Manager is a fantastic next chapter. I’m looking forward to building on our strengths and continuing to deliver exceptional results for our customers.” Richard Mycroft, recently appointed as managing director of APSS, added: “John’s promotion is well deserved. His experience, knowledge and steady leadership have made a real impact across the business. He’s a natural problem-solver with a clear vision for operational excellence, and I have every confidence he’ll continue to drive us forward in his new role.”

Lincolnshire investment opportunities worth £3.6bn revealed at UKREiiF

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Lincolnshire investment opportunities worth £3.6bn revealed at UKREiiF
The Greater Lincolnshire Combined County Authority (GLCCA), and newly elected Mayor, Dame Andrea Jenkyns, have revealed major investment opportunities at annual real estate investor forum UKREiiF. As a newly formed Combined County Authority, GLCCA hosted a pavilion, working in partnership across the Greater Lincolnshire inward investment teams and Team Lincolnshire – a public and private sector group of Lincolnshire ambassadors – to put investment opportunities worth £3.6bn to the economy to investors. Dame Andrea announced the investment opportunities for Greater Lincolnshire, which sit across 17 locations and include everything from shovel-ready housing developments to long term multi-sector investment sites. Greater Lincolnshire’s core sectors of agri-food, energy, defence, and ports and logistics all have investment sites on offer. The area also has big growth opportunities in advanced engineering and manufacturing as well as automation and agri-tech. Dame Andrea Jenkyns said: “Greater Lincolnshire is critical to the UK’s economy for its food security, defence capabilities and much more. Not only do I care about giving more to the residents of the area I represent, I also know what a significant contribution we make to the nation. “The GLCCA is already developing a clear plan to deliver with the powers and funding that have been negotiated – but we’re ambitious – and I fully plan to start work on getting more devolved funding and powers for Greater Lincolnshire as soon as possible. “Our area has attractive investment opportunities and enormous potential for growth, and I know by working together with dedicated teams across Greater Lincolnshire, we can maximise the opportunities at UKREiiF to boost growth and investment.” Tony Reynolds, inward investment manager at Lincolnshire County Council and Team Lincolnshire lead, said: “By attending UKREiiF as a collective, we are showcasing what Greater Lincolnshire can offer to a national audience of developers and decision makers within the property and investment industry. The conversations we have at this event can positively impact the economy of Greater Lincolnshire for many years to come. “Greater Lincolnshire has clear investment opportunities and now the GLCCA has been formed and with the strong voice of Dame Andrea as Mayor, we can accelerate growth and be at the front of the queue for discussions with government and future funding opportunities.”

De Montfort University cuts jobs amid financial strain

April Lara
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De Montfort University cuts jobs amid financial strain

De Montfort University (DMU) in Leicester is cutting 80 roles as part of a wider effort to close a £22 million funding gap. A total of 94 positions, including senior lecturers, associate professors, lecturers, and research staff, have been placed at risk.

The university cited a sharp drop in student numbers, stagnant tuition fees, and rising employer National Insurance contributions as key pressures. Although some cost-saving measures had already been introduced, such as voluntary severance schemes, pausing non-essential projects, and restricting spending, these have not been enough to balance the books.

The financial shortfall is partially linked to investments in new campus developments in London and Dubai. While these projects were intended to diversify income and reduce reliance on domestic undergraduate tuition, they have contributed to current budget challenges.

DMU still needs to find an additional £5 million in savings to meet its target, as institutions across the UK grapple with intensifying cost pressures and shifts in the higher education landscape. The university remains one of Leicester’s major employers and plays a significant role in the regional economy.

Green light given for rural redevelopment in Peak District village

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Green light given for rural redevelopment in Peak District village
Planning permission has been granted for the redevelopment of The Beeches, a former farmhouse complex in Bradbourne, Derbyshire. The scheme includes the creation of four new dwellings through the conversion and reconstruction of existing barns, alongside the replacement of the original farmhouse with a bespoke new home. Working in collaboration with Planning & Design Practice, who led the planning strategy, Matthew Montague Architects has developed a design that blends traditional rural architecture with contemporary living. “This is a fantastic opportunity to breathe new life into a rural site with deep heritage,” said Paul Myers, architect at Matthew Montague Architects. “Our approach balances tradition and modernity—preserving what’s important while allowing the buildings to serve a new purpose. It’s great to see The Beeches move forward as a model of sensitive rural regeneration.”

Lack of financial education holding young entrepreneurs back

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Lack of financial education holding young entrepreneurs back
Young people lack the financial education to equip them for entrepreneurship. Almost one in five young people (19%) in the UK say that better financial education at school and college would help them to set up or grow a business, according to data from the Federation of Small Businesses (FSB) released to mark National Numeracy Day (21 May). FSB says that the government must now make financial education a compulsory part of the national curriculum in England. Almost a quarter (24%) of young people in the UK struggle with financial knowledge when it comes to starting and running a business, while one in ten (10%) say they struggle with maths, according to FSB’s Generation Entrepreneur research, with Simply Business. FSB is calling for all secondary schools, and primary schools at Key Stage 2, in England, to give effective financial education to equip young people with the skills needed to start their own business. Jennifer Thomas, area manager at the Federation of Small Businesses, said: “To thrive in business, the next generation needs strong financial skills—starting from an early age. That’s why it’s time for the Department for Education to make financial education a compulsory part of the school curriculum and ensure teachers are properly equipped with the training and tools to deliver it. “Whether it’s understanding taxes, applying for funding, managing invoices, or handling personal finances alongside a growing venture, young people deserve the knowledge that will give them the confidence to succeed. Embedding financial literacy into education will lay the foundation for future entrepreneurs and a more financially savvy society.”

“A fantastic event celebrating the achievements of the construction industry” – enter the East Midlands Bricks Awards 2025 now!

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“A fantastic event celebrating the achievements of the construction industry” – enter the East Midlands Bricks Awards 2025 now!
With nominations now being welcomed for Business Link Magazine’s East Midlands Bricks Awards 2025, last year’s ‘Contractor of the Year’ winner has reflected on the prestigious event. Michael Sims, Managing Director of Clegg Construction, said: “We were thrilled to have won Contractor of the Year at last year’s Bricks Awards — a fantastic event celebrating the achievements of the construction industry within the East Midlands. “Huge thanks to Business Link for putting together such a memorable night, and to our amazing team and clients for their continued support!” The East Midlands Bricks Awards celebrates the successes of property and construction companies in Derbyshire, Nottinghamshire, Leicestershire, Lincolnshire, and Northamptonshire. This year’s eagerly anticipated awards ceremony, marking 10 years of the event, will take place on Thursday 2nd October at Nottingham’s famous Trent Bridge Cricket Ground. Recognising those behind the changing landscape of the East Midlands, the occasion highlights development projects, businesses, and people in commercial and public building across the region – from office, industrial and residential schemes, through to community projects such as leisure schemes and schools. It also toasts the work of architects, agencies, and those behind large schemes. Welcoming almost 150 professionals, nominating a company or project for the awards is a great way to showcase your successes, recognise your team’s efforts, and reach our audience of over 60,000 business readers, while also offering a chance to connect with respected professionals. And better yet, it’s completely free to enter! Making the top three finalists in your category also wins you free tickets to the event, where you’ll be in the running for one of our coveted awards.

To make a nomination for the East Midlands Bricks Awards 2025, please click here.

Supporting imagery, video, documents, or links to these, can be sent to bricks@blmgroup.co.uk. Video nomination pitches are also welcome as an alternative or companion to written entries. Categories include: All finalists will have the chance to take home the Overall Winner award, which this year comes with a grand prize of a year of marketing/publicity worth £20,000, with the opportunity to split or gift the marketing to a charity of your choice.

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. Upon submitting a nomination, we will get in touch for any information, imagery, and video nominees would like to be featured on their showcase page.

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:

With a limited number of sponsorship opportunities remaining, please contact Angie Cooper at a.cooper@blmgroup.co.uk to learn more if you are interested in becoming an East Midlands Bricks Awards 2025 sponsor.

East Midlands Airport targets cargo growth with airfield development

April Lara
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East Midlands Airport targets cargo growth with airfield development

East Midlands Airport has announced plans to develop 123.5 acres of airfield land to support expanding its cargo operations, aiming to attract logistics and warehousing partners. The site, located near the runway in Castle Donington, includes four plots—three of which will have direct runway access via proposed new taxiways and stands for up to 18 additional aircraft.

The scheme outlines 122,000 square metres of warehousing and 51,000 square metres of landside yard space. Developers are currently being sought to advance the project.

A commissioned economic study projects the airport could increase its freight handling capacity by 54% to 583,000 tonnes annually by 2043. The forecast suggests this growth could generate up to £3.9 billion in economic value and create more than 21,000 jobs across the region.

The expansion aligns with the airport’s strategic push to strengthen its leading UK cargo hub position. The development will increase connectivity and investment opportunities for the surrounding East Midlands logistics and manufacturing sectors.

Formal consultations with local stakeholders are expected as the plans progress.

Shoe Zone posts £2.3m loss as weak demand hits earnings

April Lara
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Shoe Zone posts £2.3m loss as weak demand hits earnings

Footwear retailer Shoe Zone reported a pre-tax loss of £2.3 million for the six months ending 29 March 2025, reversing a £2.6 million profit from last year. Revenue declined by 6.5% year-on-year to £71.5 million. The company also confirmed it will not issue a dividend.

The drop in earnings prompted a sharp market reaction, with shares falling over 17% in early trading.

Shoe Zone attributed the downturn to soft consumer demand, unseasonal weather, and rising costs linked to the UK government’s Autumn Budget. The company cited increased outgoings related to National Insurance and National Living Wage changes, impacting the second half of the financial year.

The retailer had initially forecast full-year pre-tax profits of £10 million, but revised that down to £5 million due to challenging trading conditions in Q1. While Q2 showed some signs of recovery and currency and freight costs have eased slightly, the business expects the operating environment to remain difficult amid low consumer confidence.

Shoe Zone previously closed several stores in response to rising overheads, and its net cash position has also weakened. The company is yet to provide updated full-year guidance beyond the £5 million estimate.

Lincolnshire construction firm celebrates milestone first year with 4,000 sq ft Saxilby office build

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Lincolnshire construction firm celebrates milestone first year with 4,000 sq ft Saxilby office build
Lincolnshire-based construction firm Build Manager is marking the end of its first year in business with a major achievement, securing and delivering its first major commercial contract, a bespoke 4,000 sq ft two-storey office development for IFI Group Ltd in Saxilby. The project, which spans a 25-week contract duration, represents a significant milestone for the young company and demonstrates its capacity to deliver fast-paced, high-quality commercial builds. Since being appointed at the end of 2024, Build Manager has wasted no time. In just over four months, the team has finalised designs, delivered the groundworks ‘in-house’, erected the steel frame and tarmacked the new entrance road. The new office is being developed for IFI Group Ltd, a specialist fire safety, risk management consultancy and training provider, and will support their continued growth within the region. The project has brought together a number of Lincolnshire-based collaborators, including architects LK2, structural engineers William Saunders, aggregate supplier UDCS Ltd, concrete supplier AMS Build Group Ltd, roofing and cladding contractor B C Roofing and architectural windows and door specialist Kole Architectural. Build Manager was launched just over a year ago with a focus on upfront commercial viability advice and streamlined, transparent project delivery. Winning the IFI Group contract marked the company’s first large-scale commercial development and a strong close to year one. “To end our first year in business by securing and delivering a significant commercial contract is something we’re incredibly proud of,” said Matthew Jones, director at Build Manager. “This project showcases what we’re all about, efficient delivery, clear communication, and a collaborative approach. It’s been a fantastic way to build momentum heading into year two.” Build Manager was set up by Lincolnshire-based construction professionals Matthew Jones and Ben Taylor. The pair, who have worked in management for a number of local main-contractors, set up on their own after spotting a gap in market for their services. Matthew, from Scotton, and Ben, from Sturton-by-Stow, Lincoln have been involved in many notable projects in and around the county, including £2.2m new build commercial units (60,000 sq ft) at Discovery Park on Whisby Road – North Hykeham, £3m renovation of Lawress Hall for the University of Lincoln and the new £4.5m Community Ward at John Coupland hospital in Gainsborough, to name a few. IFI Group Ltd shared their satisfaction with the process so far, praising Build Manager’s professionalism, reactiveness, and on-site efficiency.
How the finished project for IFI Group Ltd will look
“From the very beginning, the team has been incredibly reactive, professional, and easy to work with,” said Ben Freeman, director of IFI Group Ltd. “Communication has been clear and consistent throughout, and progress on site has been impressively efficient. It’s been a smooth experience so far, and we’re genuinely excited to see our new office coming to life.” As the office build continues at pace, Build Manager is inviting other local businesses considering new developments or construction work to reach out for some free upfront advice and viability studies. “Whether you’re planning a new office, warehouse, or commercial space, we’d love to hear from you. Our goal is to make the process smooth, stress-free, and successful,” added Matthew. Local businesses can contact Build Manager at info@build-manager.co.uk or find out more at www.build-manager.co.uk.

Central Airlines enters UK market with East Midlands cargo route

April Lara
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Central Airlines enters UK market with East Midlands cargo route

China’s Central Airlines has launched a new year-round cargo service to East Midlands Airport, marking its first UK operation. The service is operated on behalf of logistics firm YunExpress and runs twice weekly between Xiamen and Nottingham via Tianjin, with the return leg non-stop to Xiamen.

The route is served by a B777-200F aircraft, with flight data showing that the aircraft has been operating into Nottingham every three days since its initial arrival on 5 May. The official inaugural flight was conducted on 13 May.

YunExpress is also expanding its physical footprint at the airport with the development of a dedicated warehouse facility, signalling a longer-term commitment to the region’s logistics infrastructure.

East Midlands Airport has recently seen a rise in international cargo activity, with new freight services from Ethiopian Airlines and Atlas Air also commencing in May.

Central Airlines operates a mixed fleet that includes two B737-300Fs, four B737-800BCFs, and four B777-200Fs. The airline is focusing on growing its widebody operations while scaling back its narrowbody fleet.

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