New chair appointed to Leicester and Leicestershire Business Board
Andy Reed OBE has been appointed to chair a new Business Board tasked with helping to shape economic strategy in Leicester and Leicestershire.
The Leicester and Leicestershire Business Board will bring senior public and private sector leaders together to consider matters relating to growth in the city and county.
The Business Board is a key part of the new Leicester and Leicestershire Business and Skills Partnership led by Leicester City Council and Leicestershire County Council.
The Leader of the County Council and the City Mayor have appointed Mr Reed, the former Chair of the Leicester and Leicestershire Enterprise Partnership (LLEP), as the Business Board’s first Chair.
Mr Reed brings substantial relevant experience, and his appointment provides continuity in business and stakeholder advice to the city and county councils.
The purpose of the Business Board is to boost skills and growth by building the local business voice into delivery of economic strategy.
The Board is a key component of the Business and Skills Partnership, which will have input into functions including the Business Gateway Growth Hub and the Careers Hub.
Mr Reed said: “It’s so important that the voice of business is available to local authority leaders as they form growth policy in our city and county.
“The Leicester and Leicestershire Business Board will provide input from businesses of all sizes during decision-making, working with our elected leaders to inform broad economic strategy.”
Introduction of the Business Board comes after the Government ceased funding for local enterprise partnerships (LEPs) nationwide at the end of March.
Work has since continued behind the scenes to develop the new Business and Skills Partnership and associated Business Board.
Cllr Nick Rushton, Leicestershire County Council Leader, welcomed Government sign-off for the new Business and Skills Partnership, adding: “I’m delighted that Andy has agreed to chair the new Business Board and am keen that we get the new arrangements up and running as soon as possible.”
Sir Peter Soulsby, Leicester Elected Mayor, said: “Building a strong business voice into the development and delivery of our economic strategy is very important and we look forward to working alongside Andy as we establish the new Business Board.”
Work is now underway to recruit Board members. The first meeting is expected to be held later this year. Subsequent meetings are expected to be held every two months in and around Leicester and Leicestershire.
Members are set to serve a three-year term, which may then be extended by a further three years.
East Midlands scale ups attracted more than $36m in Q1
Innovative businesses in the East Midlands attracted $36 million across 13 deals in venture capital (VC) funding in the first quarter of the year, according to the latest KPMG Private Enterprise Venture Pulse report.
While the number of deals remained relatively stable, decreasing only from 13 to 12, the total value of these deals experienced a significant decline, falling from over $58 million to $36 million compared to the same period in the previous year.
Some of the largest raises came from businesses with a healthcare focus – Locate Bio raised $10.6 million for a clinical study, University of Nottingham spin-out IsomAb raised $9.4 million to develop a new treatment for cardiovascular diseases, and Neupulse secured $3 million to advance a wearable device aimed at tackling Tourettes Syndrome.
In 2023, there were a total of 47 VC investments in the East Midlands, worth more than $155 million.
Khush Purewal, partner and head of deals at KPMG in the Midlands, said: It is reassuring to see that funds continue to flow into businesses in the Midlands, particularly those that are pioneering in the healthcare sector.
“Over the last 18 months, the macroeconomic environment has changed dramatically with political uncertainty and cost of borrowing all rising. As we find ourselves in a new normal, we need to think about how we move ahead, and right now, investors are focusing on companies prioritising routes to profitability and that are creating sustainable growth to succeed in the current environment.
“The diversity of our scaleup ecosystem still attracts VC investors who are looking for innovative companies with robust unit economics and a path to growth. As the economy remains challenging, continuing to support fast growth businesses is important to the UK’s economic recovery and growth, and is key to levelling up as we look to attract and develop talent across our regions.”
UK national outlook
Nationally, VC investment into UK businesses continued to slide in the opening quarter for 2024, falling to levels last seen in 2018.
Coming off the back of $4.9 billion raised by UK businesses in the last quarter of 2023, just $3 billion in funding was raised in Q1’24 — the lowest amount seen in twenty-two quarters. Deal volumes were also down with the Venture Pulse report recording just 519 deals completed in the period, levels not seen since 2016.
While deal volume was very subdued, deal sizes remained quite healthy as VC investors focused their funds on the most promising startups.
B2B businesses looking for VC investment faced particular challenges as companies across sectors felt pressure to tighten their pocketbooks and improve their internal efficiencies. This slowdown is likely to affect the interest of VC investors heading into Q2’24, although B2B startups with embedded technology solutions will likely prove more resilient than those with additive technology offerings the report found.
On the fundraising side, Q1’24 saw some larger VC funds in the UK showing interest in acquiring the portfolios of smaller funds; during the quarter, for example, Molten Ventures completed its acquisition of Forward Partners for $52 million. Another trend seen recently in the UK has been the focus on investment corridors; this has been particularly true in the fintech sector, where a number of UK fintechs are working to connect to the fintech ecosystems emerging in the Middle East.
What’s happening elsewhere?
Global VC investment fell slightly from $83.8 billion across 9,458 deals in Q4’23 to $75.9 billion across 7,520 deals in Q1’24 amid geopolitical tensions, the extended drought in exits among VC-backed companies, and a continued pullback in investment at later deal stages. The level of VC investment in Q1’24 was the lowest since Q2’19, while the number of VC deals was the lowest since Q2’16.
VC investment in Europe rose from $15.1 billion in Q4’23 to $17.9 billion in Q1’24, buoyed by a large $5.2 billion raise by H2 Green Steel in Sweden. With few exceptions, VC investors in Europe continued to show caution given the challenging geopolitical and macroeconomic environment, including the high interest rate environment; while interest rates have smoothed, there is little sign that they will decline to a significant degree in the near future.
The number of VC deals dropped considerably in Europe, falling from 2,419 deals in Q4’23 to 1,798 deals in Q1’24. This decline was particularly noticeable at later deal stages, with the number of Series D+ deals in the region dropping to just eleven. The geographic diversity of VC investments held strong during the quarter, with eight jurisdictions in the region attracting at least one $100 million+ funding round in Q1’24, including Sweden, the Netherlands, France, Germany, the UK, Spain, Israel, and Italy.
Chamber-Toyota partnership champions energy efficiency amongst small businesses
A new partnership between East Midlands Chamber and Toyota Motor Manufacturing aims to bring to life energy efficiency for small businesses.
The fully funded Energy Reduction workshop, part of the Accelerator project funded by the UK Government through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund, provides a rare opportunity to experience a practical demonstration and shop floor observation with Toyota Energy Specialists.
It also includes an overview of their strategic approach to decarbonisation and energy cost management and aims to demonstrate decarbonisation and competitiveness in action.
East Midlands Chamber Deputy Chief Executive Diane Beresford said: “Any decision-maker in a business that meets the eligibility criteria of the Accelerator project is welcome to express their interest in joining us on the day although larger-sized SMEs with a particularly high energy consumption will take priority and we expect manufacturing and logistics businesses to derive the most value.
“Whilst participation is fully funded, the workshop is valued at around £600 per person so I’ve no doubt it will be a highly popular offer.”
Toyota Manufacturing UK Senior Manager, Environment and Carbon Neutrality Project John Malpas said: “We have over 30 years of energy kaizen experience achieving significant energy reductions and technological breakthroughs. The workshop aims to inspire others through sharing our decarbonisation activities by practical observations and demonstrations on the shopfloor by our Energy Support and Collaboration Team.”
Businesses can choose from three dates. Each session is limited to 15 places, takes place over the course of five hours and will be held on the following Tuesdays: 30th July, 24th September and 29th October.
Businesses interested in attending are invited to contact Ian Bates, Policy and Representation Manager at East Midlands Chamber ian.bates@emc-dnl.co.uk.
Fraudster sentenced for £1.5m renewable energy and home safety scam
A fraudster who conned elderly and vulnerable residents out of £1.5m for renewable energy and home safety products has been sentenced to seven years imprisonment alongside a 10-year directorship ban.
Robin MacDonald, aged 45, of Park Row, Bretby, Burton-on-Trent, was found guilty of conspiracy to commit fraud by false representation along with charges of fraudulent trading following a five-month trial at Nottingham Crown Court where more than 200 victims gave evidence.
Between 2014 and 2015, MacDonald repeatedly mis-sold victims products including solar panels and emergency medical buttons through his businesses Sunpower Renewables Ltd and Stirling Technologies Ltd trading as Proshield Alarms.
The defendant was prosecuted following an investigation led by the National Trading Standards Regional Investigations Team East Midlands, hosted by Nottinghamshire County Council, and supported by Derbyshire County Council Trading Standards.
Sunpower Renewables sold renewable energy products to customers and sales representatives often bullied and pressured victims into signing contracts for works which were then completed to a poor standard, with some creating structural instability in homes.
Proshield Alarms promised customers round the clock safety through products which would allegedly alert emergency services in the event that their alarm systems were triggered, with victims being misled through the deliberately false statements made by sales representatives and the marketing brochures.
A second defendant was found not guilty by the jury on the same charges.
Roy Hancher, aged 54, of Light Ash Lane, Coven, Wolverhampton, pleaded guilty to fraudulent trading prior to the trial and was sentenced to one year and eight months imprisonment, suspended for 18 months and a six-year directorship ban. Nicola Mather, aged 44, of Spindletree Drive, Derby, pleaded guilty to money laundering prior to the trial and was sentenced to one year imprisonment suspended for one year as well as 200 hours of unpaid community work.
Mark Walker, Interim Service Director for Place at Nottinghamshire County Council, said: “I’d like to thank and recognise all of the victims who came forward and worked with our investigators to bring this case to trial and these individuals to justice.
“These sentences show that the dishonest selling of products will not be tolerated.
“There is a saying that if something seems too good to be true, then it probably is and sadly scammers hope to exploit this for their own gain.
“We would always advise residents to be alert to cold calling and to never buy at the door. If residents have any concerns or if something doesn’t feel right, then it probably isn’t, and nobody should ever be afraid to close the door.
“Scammers may turn up out of the blue offering something you didn’t think that you needed, but by working together to spot their behaviour we can make sure that they don’t take advantage of friends, loved ones and neighbours.
“If you think you’ve fallen victim to a rogue trader, you can report this to the Citizens Advice Consumer Helpline by calling 0808 223 1133. You can also contact them for advice prior to entering into a contract to purchase goods or services.”
Lord Michael Bichard, Chair, National Trading Standards, said: “MacDonald and his associates preyed on and took advantage of vulnerable people – stopping at nothing to get what they wanted.
“Lingering in the homes of their victims for hours, they bullied customers – many of them elderly – into signing contracts at vastly inflated prices for products they didn’t want or need.
“I hope that the sentences handed down today will provide some solace to the victims and serve as a powerful deterrent to anyone hoping to make money from fraudulently selling renewable energy and home safety products.”
Derby businesses fear uncertainty will hit investment in potential vote of no confidence
Derby City Council is being called upon to reconsider holding a potential vote of no confidence in its leader, Councillor Baggy Shanker, in an emergency meeting it is understood is due to be held in secret this evening.
Organisations representing thousands of businesses, including the Business Improvement Districts (BIDs) for the Cathedral Quarter and St Peters Quarter, plus Marketing Derby, as well as investors, such as St James Securities and Wavensmere Homes, have submitted letters expressing deep concern about the introduction of political instability at a crucial time for Derby.
At immediate risk is a huge sum of up to £500 million of investment with genuine fears that instability will further affect investor confidence costing the city jobs and investment.
Wavensmere Homes, which has already built over 900 new homes in the Nightingale Quarter, with a further 500 homes in the immediate pipeline, has said it may now consider re-evaluating a further £250 million of investment in Derby.
St James Securities said that negotiations on the next phase of the £230 million Becketwell scheme were at a very sensitive stage and feared this might be threatened.
The BIDs are especially concerned about losing city centre regeneration momentum and today Marketing Derby has written to the Mayor of Derby, Councillor Ged Potter, reiterating these concerns and urging a different approach be taken to solve any political problems.
All submissions have stressed they are non-party political and supportive of the four-year electoral cycle introduced last year. This being broken could lead to three years of uncertainty.
The vote of no confidence from opposition leaders relates to the conduct and actions of Cllr Shanker regarding the failed Sinfin Waste Treatment Plant.
Shanker was quoted by the BBC saying the motion was “a desperate act of political opportunism.”
A statement from Shanker added: “It is no coincidence that two of the signatories to the motion happen to be standing against me in the general election to become the next MP for Derby South.”
Excor snaps up Teal Park warehouse
Supply chain solution provider Excor Services, part of Park Logistics Group, has acquired a new warehouse property in Nottingham to service their ongoing expansion requirements.
The deal agreed between agents FHP and Innes England saw the acquisition of the brand new 26,409 sq ft facility with a large secure yard at the Teal Park scheme, which provides a 20-unit warehouse and trade park scheme totalling 160,000 sq ft owned by national investors, Northwood Urban Logistics.
Iain Taylor, director at Northwood Urban Logistics, said: “We are very pleased to welcome our latest occupier to Teal Park demonstrating that it is appealing to a wide range of occupiers who will be able to adapt the units for a variety of uses.”
Mark Tomlinson, director at FHP who acted on behalf of Northwood, said: “It is great to welcome another good quality Tenant to the scheme. There are very few units which offer such good quality space around the city and there are now only 4 units remaining of this 20-unit development.
“The remaining warehouse units are of a very high quality on large secure fenced plots with substantial yard depths. There are just 2 trade units remaining sitting alongside established occupiers… Screwfix, Howdens, Toolstation, Paintwell and Karcher.”
Craig Straw, director at Innes England who acted on behalf of the tenant, said: “We have advised Park Logistics for many years and are delighted to have assisted Excor Services in their latest acquisition. Securing a Grade A warehouse close to their existing base at Colwick was key so Teal Park offered the perfect solution.”
Phillips Sutton and JLL act as joint agents on the scheme.
Leicestershire philanthropist receives Uganda Red Cross Society award
The Chairman of a Leicestershire-based charitable foundation has received the Henry Dunant Award from the Uganda Red Cross Society (URCS).
Dr Nik Kotecha OBE DL was invited to receive this year’s award because of the collaborative work between the society and the Randal Charitable Foundation to open a manufacturing plant for sanitary pads in Uganda. This plant, through its operation of producing affordable reusable sanitary pads, will significantly improve the lives of up to 50,000 Ugandan girls and women each year.
The plant was officially opened in the summer of 2023 by Dr Kotecha and is now working towards its goal of manufacturing 100,000 re-usable sanitary pads annually – directly helping to tackle missed educational opportunities for girls, who may miss 18% of the academic year, because of poor sanitary protection during their menstrual periods.
It is also creating locally based, skilled employment opportunities for vulnerable girls and women who are being trained to make and market the pads and ensure the long-term sustainability of the facility.
Speaking virtually at the Uganda Red Cross Society’s National Council Meeting (General Assembly) in Kampala, Dr Kotecha, said: “Thank you very much for this award. It is a privilege to receive this on behalf of our Foundation. Many of you will know that Uganda was my birthplace and my home as a child. A place that I have been to many times, and of which I’ve got some very fond memories.
“Especially the time when I visited last year to open this incredible manufacturing facility, which I’m very humbled to have had the opportunity to collaborate with the Uganda Red Cross to create.
“It’s amazing how life comes together – it was over 50 years ago in 1972 when my family left Uganda during the time of Idi Amin, and it was the Red Cross that helped and supported us to leave, settle and start a new life in the United Kingdom.
“So, it’s an honour to be presented with this award and to support the Uganda Red Cross Society to save and significantly improve the lives of so many girls and young women.”
Named after the founder of the International Red Cross, the award acknowledges and rewards outstanding humanitarian services and actions by an individual, and is the highest award given by the Uganda Red Cross Society each year.
During the ceremony, Robert Kwesiga, Uganda Red Cross Secretary General, read a Citation to the members of the National Council (General Assembly). He said: “We are pleased to present the Henry Dunant Award to Dr Kotecha, for his outstanding contribution towards the establishment of the Uganda Red Cross Reusable Pads Manufacturing plant, at our Youth Training Centre in Namakwa, Mukono.
“This project is helping us to improve and touch lives, especially vulnerable girls in rural communities. The Pads are a point of regaining dignity of the girls who drop out of school due to lack of Pads. The same project is contributing to the economic welfare of girls and women in the communities who sew the Pads and find this as a point of psychosocial support for their emotional and mental wellbeing.
“This is the noblest award we give in the Red Cross, and we are excited to present it to Dr Nik Kotecha, for his outstanding contribution towards the National Society development.”
The award was accepted on Dr Kotecha’s behalf at the National Council Meeting by Business and Investment Ambassador, Grace Muliisa, who is also the Managing Director of EcoBank Uganda.
Rachael McCormack, Chief Operating Officer of the Randal Foundation, added: “We were delighted to be invited to join the National Council Meeting 2024 for the Uganda Red Cross Society, marking 60 years of celebrating humanity in Uganda – at their meeting in Kampala.
“Presenters spoke of how the work of the society has been hugely supported by partners to enable them to go further. Throughout the year, their work has included activity which puts their teams at risk – but despite this, in the service of others, they deliver, with commitment and a focus on serving the most vulnerable.”
Andrew + Ashwell makes leadership team promotions
Andrew + Ashwell, a property consultancy firm in Leicestershire, has promoted two surveyors within its leadership team.
Kelvin Wilson, a seasoned professional with a wealth of experience in the industry, has been elevated to the position of director, having previously served as an associate director. Additionally, Joe Dodd, a dedicated member of the team, has been promoted to the role of associate director.
Kelvin Wilson, who has been an integral part of Andrew + Ashwell for several years, has consistently demonstrated exceptional leadership, expertise, and a deep commitment to delivering outstanding service to clients.
His promotion to director is a well deserved recognition of his hard work, dedication, and proven track record of success within the company. In his new role, Kelvin will play a key role in shaping the strategic direction of the firm, driving growth, and ensuring the continued delivery of high-quality service to clients.
“I am honoured and excited to take on the role of director,” said Kelvin. “Having been at the firm 10 years this year, starting as a fresh faced graduate in 2014, I have seen the company continue to evolve and I look forward to building on our long term reputation of excellence and to continue driving the company forwards.”
Joe Dodd, who has shown exceptional commitment in his role at the company, has been promoted to the position of associate director. Joe’s promotion is a testament to his hard work, expertise, and commitment to delivering exceptional results for clients.
In his new position, Joe will continue to play a key role in supporting the company’s growth and success, working closely with the leadership team to drive innovation and excellence in service delivery for clients, whilst helping the younger members of the team to progress.
“I am very proud to be given a new role and responsibilities as associate director at A+A,” said Joe. “I have been fortunate to gain guidance from a team with a wealth of experience and I am committed to continuing to deliver the highest standard of service to new and existing clients and contributing to the ongoing success of the company.”
Manchester Airports Group seek planning permission for new manufacturing park
Manchester Airports Group is seeking planning permission to turn land near East Midlands Airport into a new hi-tech logistics and manufacturing park as part of the East Midlands Freeport.
It relates to a site just south of the A453 alongside the airport, and if approved could result in more than 2,000 new jobs once fully operational and employ up to 174 people during a two-year construction period.
It’s estimated the new development could contribute up to £132m per year in GVA to the East Midlands economy, along with almost £9m in additional annual business rates contributions.
The land has been designated a tax site as part of East Midlands Freeport to help attract new investment and jobs to the region. The draft local plan also identifies it as a potential location for strategic distribution, located in the heart of the country close to the M1 and major road network, the UK’s number one dedicated cargo airport, and the East Midlands Gateway rail freight hub and logistics park – all within what’s known as the UK’s logistics ‘Golden Triangle.’
The plans laid before North West Leicestershire District Council describe the outline proposals as several units up to 25m tall, providing up to 135,000 square metres of floorspace for general industrial and storage or distribution uses, along with offices. The largest units would be located closest to the A453, with smaller units along the southern end of the site. This would help towards meeting a need identified by North West Leicestershire District Council for 2.5m square metres of additional warehousing in the area by 2041.
EMA’s MD Steve Griffiths said: “This is a prime site for a development of this kind, given its proximity to major road and rail networks and the UK’s number one express air cargo hub. Given its status as a Freeport tax site, we are confident that if approved, we will have little difficulty in attracting businesses, bringing much-needed jobs to the region during its construction and operation.
“The proposals we have submitted to the council outline how we have carefully considered the opportunities and constraints of the site, seeking to strike the balance between the need for such a development against the potential impact on the environment and local residents. We have met and will continue to meet members of Diseworth Parish Council and community groups and have aimed to address their concerns in our proposals.”
Tom Newman-Taylor, Chief Exec of East Midlands Freeport, said: “Our mission is to act as a catalyst for economic regeneration across the East Midlands to create thousands of jobs boosting skills for local workers, and accelerating the region’s commitment to decarbonisation through sustainable development and low-carbon energy investments.
“We support moves by our key partners to develop the Freeport’s strategically important sites which offer unparalleled connectivity to the rest of the UK. We also welcome the consultation the airport has carried out with the local community and the steps they have taken to address their concerns as part of the process.”
Gain exposure amongst the property & construction industry at the East Midlands Bricks Awards 2024
Raise the profile of your business by submitting a nomination for Business Link’s prestigious East Midlands Bricks Awards 2024!
Toasting the region’s property and construction industry, its people, and exceptional developments, the annual awards attract leaders from across the region and are the perfect way for firms to promote the work they are completing and create more buzz.
The awards provide an opportunity to put on display outstanding new commercial and residential developments, as well as those putting sustainability at the forefront and illustrating design excellence; recognise the region’s developers, architects, contractors, and agents making great impact over the past year; showcase significant deals and those involved, and ensure responsible businesses get their moment in the spotlight.
A highlight in the business calendar, winners will be revealed at a glittering awards ceremony on Thursday 3rd October, at the Trent Bridge Cricket Ground – an evening of celebration and networking with property and construction professionals from across the East Midlands.
To nominate your (or another) business/development for one of our awards, please click on a category link below or visit this page.
Award categories include:
Tickets can now be booked for the 2024 awards event, click here to secure yours.
Taking place in the Derek Randall Suite at the Trent Bridge Cricket Ground on Thursday 3rd October, from 4:30pm – 7:30pm, connect with local decision makers over nibbles and complimentary drinks while applauding the outstanding companies and projects in our region.
Attendees will also hear from keynote speaker Paul Southby, partner at Geldards LLP, chair of the Advisory Board to Nottingham Business School, chair of Broadway independent cinema, trustee of Clean Rivers Trust, chair of Nottingham Partners, board member of Marketing Nottingham and Nottinghamshire, and former High Sheriff of Nottinghamshire.
Dress code is standard business attire.
Thanks to our sponsors:
- Most active agent
- Commercial development of the year
- Responsible business of the year
- Residential development of the year
- Developer of the year
- Deal of the year
- Architects of the year
- Excellence in design
- Sustainable development of the year
- Contractor of the year
- Overall winner (this award cannot be entered, with the winner, and recipient of a year of marketing/publicity worth £20,000, selected from those nominated for the event’s other awards)
Nominations end Thursday 5th September
Tickets can now be booked for the 2024 awards event, click here to secure yours.
Taking place in the Derek Randall Suite at the Trent Bridge Cricket Ground on Thursday 3rd October, from 4:30pm – 7:30pm, connect with local decision makers over nibbles and complimentary drinks while applauding the outstanding companies and projects in our region.
Attendees will also hear from keynote speaker Paul Southby, partner at Geldards LLP, chair of the Advisory Board to Nottingham Business School, chair of Broadway independent cinema, trustee of Clean Rivers Trust, chair of Nottingham Partners, board member of Marketing Nottingham and Nottinghamshire, and former High Sheriff of Nottinghamshire.
Dress code is standard business attire.
Thanks to our sponsors:
To be held at:
Global Brands expands spirits portfolio with Irish acquisition
Chesterfield-based Global Brands has announced a further expansion of its spirits portfolio, thanks to its recent partnership with Shanky’s Whip, the original Irish black liqueur and whiskey blend.
The partnership will see Global Brands take full UK distribution for Shanky’s Whip across on and off trade, online and cash and carry channels. The strategic alliance comes on the back of Global Brands’ recent spirits focus, having recently announced their off trade partnership with Red Leg Rum and the launch of Take, their own flavoured Tequila.
Owned by importer and distributor Biggar & Leith, Shanky’s Whip is a unique Irish whiskey liqueur, blended with vanilla and caramel, made to shot, sip, or mix. Shanky’s current major listings include Greene King, Amazon, Costco and Whitbread, amongst other regional groups and venues.
Global Brands, whose portfolio includes VK, Hooch, and Franklin & Sons, is set to leverage its robust distribution network, and market insights to enhance the market prominence of Shanky’s Whip, propelling its growth by positioning the brand as a challenger against mainstream competitors.
Julian Atkins, MD at Global Brands, said: “Becoming the UK distributor for Shanky’s Whip marks another milestone in our ongoing spirits strategy as we continue to diversify the business into new categories through a combination of NPD and working with established industry partners. Elwyn Gladstone and Mark Teasdale have an amazing track record of creating and building brands and we are delighted to be working with them.”
“Shanky’s authentic provenance, unique brand proposition and iconic flavour is fast becoming a consumer favourite, and we’re looking forward to leveraging our capabilities to support the brand.”
Elwyn Gladstone, Founder of Biggar & Leith, added: “This partnership with Global Brands will help to expand our distribution footprint across the UK. We have enjoyed tremendous growth for Shanky’s Whip overseas and see real opportunity here in the UK.”
“Global Brands will play a key role in our UK growth, and we look forward to seeing the results of the partnership come to fruition over the coming months, on our journey of achieving key grocery listings.”
30,000ft² of warehouse space let on Sherwood Park
Acting on behalf of longstanding clients, Tim Gilbertson of FHP Property Consultants has let a substantial warehouse at Sherwood Park just off Junction 27 of the M1 motorway.
In this latest letting on the park, a long lease has been agreed to expanding local occupier Staytite, who have taken over 30,000ft² of accommodation set on a large site.
Tim Gilbertson, director of FHP, said: “Once again it has been a pleasure acting on behalf of our longstanding clients to dispose of another unit for them here, this is the latest in a number of lettings we have undertaken over the last few years and it has been a pleasure once more to act on their behalf.
“Equally, it has been enjoyable to work with Staytite and see their expansion and relocation from slightly further north taking benefit of this excellent building which sits adjoining the M1 motorway.
“In a market where demand remains healthy, supply levels are really dropping now but we continue to see disposals happen in this mid-range sector, and this latest letting of 30,000ft² takes more space from our market so I applaud Staytite in securing this building so quickly.
“From our client’s perspective, it’s been a great deal as not only have we given them a new occupier but also done so in double quick time leaving virtually no void period between the departure of the former tenant and the arrival of the new one.
“My best wishes to both parties and I’d be delighted to speak to clients both old and new for any industrial or distribution space that they have coming available in the East Midlands as we continue to experience decent levels of demand and very limited supply in all locations and sectors.”
Andrew Black, Managing Director of Staytite, said: “This fantastic facility quadruples our previous storage capability and will allow Staytite to expand in line with the needs of our manufacturing and rail customers.
“Its strategic location offers swift delivery of expertise to the Midlands and North of England, ensuring we meet our clients’ demands with enhanced efficiency and reduced lead times.”
Refurb will have pub open again by end of next month
Building work has started on a £243,000 revamp of The Crown on the market square in the centre of Rugby with a view to its re-opening at the end of next month, having created six new jobs.
Every element of the interior will benefit from the investment including the installation of new furniture, wide planked timber floors, a feature fire place, carpet and lighting and redecoration of the toilets.
Local resident Joe Wild will be taking on the management of the pub, and says: “I am looking forward to opening the doors, meeting customers, and getting to know them. I want The Crown to offer relaxed top-quality drinks, good company, and great service – the sort of place I would like to go.
Nathan Darby, Star Pubs Business Development Manager, said: “The Crown is a lovely characterful pub in a prominent location in the town. In has become tired looking in recent times and so fallen out of favour. With its upgrade, new look and with Joe at the helm I am sure it will become a popular town centre local once again. I wish him and his new team every success.”
The refurbishment at The Crown is part of a £39m investment that Star Pubs & Bars is making in 621 pubs in 2024.
Start-ups aiming to help the elderly and support disadvantaged young people secure funding
A start-up business that aims to improve the lives of the elderly has won the Ingenuity Impact Entrepreneur of the Year award from Nuffield Health in the Ingenuity Impact Showcase 2024.
Run by the University of Nottingham and in partnership with Nuffield Health, the Ingenuity Programme provides start-up skills and training, networking, mentoring, and routes to funding for early-stage impact-driven businesses to make social, health and environmental change.
The most impactful ideas are awarded a top prize and receive a share of £75,000 funding to help them in the early stages of their entrepreneurial journeys.
The programme supports participants to turn ideas for change into exciting new ventures and adopts an agile and flexible approach to ensure diversity, inclusivity, and accessibility.
The Ingenuity Programme is designed to demystify entrepreneurship and support those not currently served by existing services available in Nottingham and in the UK’s start-up landscape. This includes engaging with and supporting underserved and underrepresented groups both from within the university and its local communities.
This year, the overall winner was Max Bateson from HYGGE who won the Ingenuity Impact Entrepreneur of the Year award, supported by Nuffield Health.
HYGGE aims to provide innovative solutions for the challenges of the UK’s aging population, integrating modern technology, adaptable living spaces, and a supportive environment to support caregivers and improve the lives of the elderly. This also aims to reduce the burden on informal carers and provide a cost-effective alternative to traditional care homes, promoting independence and social interaction for the elderly.
Max Bateson, Health Champion and Impact Entrepreneur of the Year, said: “Really happy to have gotten this far and to be able to present HYGGE. For me, the best part of this has been meeting so many people along the way who have been so great in offering expertise to help HYGGE.
“Working with Ingenuity has been great as every time I join a networking call in particular I always get a new boost of motivation to push harder as I see so many people doing amazing things to offer a product or service to help others!”
Other successful business ventures of the event included Jade Morgan from BaseGap who won the Communities Champion, and Saskia Manson from re-new who was the Climate Champion.
BaseGap, founded by Jade Morgan, tackles the double disadvantage of young people facing poorly designed homes and public spaces. This social enterprise believes young people aged 14-25 from underprivileged communities deserve inspiring surroundings. BaseGap works with them, educators, and councils to co-create comfortable and supportive spaces.
Re-new provides a library of reuse methodologies and real-world case studies to enable integration of material reuse into major redevelopment projects from the outset.
Jade Morgan said: “The Ingenuity Programme propelled BaseGap from a passionate idea to a viable social enterprise, equipping me with the skills and confidence to turn my vision into a reality. I’m truly grateful to the team for their continuous support!”
Ben Davies, Organisational Development Director at Nuffield Health, said: “At Nuffield Health, we are passionate about partnerships that tackle the UK’s major health, social, and environmental challenges, so we’re proud to once again be working alongside Ingenuity Impact, which provides vital support to emerging entrepreneurs who are making tangible and positive differences in their communities.
“This year, I’ve been blown away by the enthusiasm and professionalism of the winners. A huge well done to everyone who took part.”
Claire Mulholland, Director of the Ingenuity Programme, said: “I am delighted with the outcome of the 2024 Ingenuity National Competition and the positive, meaningful impact of the programme this year.
“The Ingenuity Programme team are so incredibly proud of our 2024 Changemakers and their commitment to developing businesses focused on improving health, tackling climate change and building stronger communities.
“Thank you to our participants, alumni, corporate, community and university partners, mentors, judges, contributors and other valued members of our Ingenuity Programme network.” East Midlands educators and employers address People and Skills challenges at summit
East Midlands Chamber’s annual People and Skills summit took place on 12th June at Nottingham Trent University, bringing together 200 delegates from the business community and education sector.
Through a series of talks, keynote speakers and workshops, the summit was centred around the Chamber’s Manifesto for Growth 2024 – which outlines a set of policy asks for the next government to consider.
Speakers at the summit included: Professor Baback Yazdani, Executive Dean of Nottingham Business School; Kate Lee, Talent & Resourcing Manager, Samworth Brothers; Emma Kwiatkowski, Director, Hays; Craig Brothers, Vice President, East Midlands Chamber; Laura Shepherd, Director of Strategic Partnerships, Loughborough College and Dr Gareth Thomas, Managing Director, Skills and Employment Support Ltd.
East Midlands Chamber Head of Special Projects Richard Blackmore said:
“Reforming skills is an essential ingredient to economic growth and all the research we conduct with businesses in the East Midlands – like our latest Quarterly Economic Survey where 66% of respondents in the region reported difficulties recruiting staff – has underlined the need to address the issue. The East Midlands People and Skills summit is one of the ways the Chamber can get right into the heart of the issues faced by businesses, breaking them down and finding solutions to overcome each hurdle.
“Candidate needs are evolving, while factors like technology advance just as quickly. Businesses need to ready themselves for emerging technology like AI and what that might mean for the skills candidates might need in the future. Workplaces need to be attractive to new recruits and be open minded to finding ways to match their needs with those of prospective employees. That can mean consideration of things like having a strong Corporate and Social Responsibility policy, offering employees the opportunity to engage with communities and charities, for example.
“If we can pinpoint the sticking blocks in skills, recruitment and retention, we can fix them and that’s why it’s so important that businesses and educators engage with each other, to solve staffing issues both now and in the future.”
Skills & Employment Support Limited Managing Director Dr Gareth Thomas, who chaired a panel discussion on engagement between businesses and educators said of the benefit of the summit:
“It drives relationships, gets more businesses talking to the training organisations and the educators, and supports innovation. There’s a lot that the education sector can learn from industry and if some of that expertise can be shared on the back of the summit that’s great. The summit helps to raise awareness of the great offer of training and funded training that is available here in the East Midlands that most employers probably aren’t aware of.”
Small firms need Government to reduce cost of international trade
Small firms say the “supply chain could crumble” unless the next Government prioritises international trade.
Figures from the Federation of Small Businesses (FSB) show that one in five (22%) small firms are worried about the costs of exports and imports over the next five years.
The research also shows how one in four (27%) would like to see a reduction in the cost and time it takes to import and export.
Elsewhere, three in ten (28%) say that one of the measures in FSB’s manifesto proposal for a Small Business Act should focus on making it easier for the UK to trade internationally.
Tina McKenzie, FSB’s Policy Chair, said: “International trade fuels progress and fresh ideas, and without it, our supply chain crumbles. Small firms who reach global markets also tend to grow faster and be stronger during tough economic times.
“However, our research presents some troubling figures, so the next Government will therefore need to keep trade at the top of their agenda.
“Strengthening trade links with major markets like the EU and USA is key to the UK’s future as a global trading force. This would also incentivise small firms to start and continue trading.
“Our election manifesto outlines ways to achieve this, including creating a simple online trade portal that collects all the information small firms need to provide just once – a “once and done” approach. The hefty paperwork and confusing fees associated with international trade are also a concern, and those administrative burdens need to be reduced.
“Investing in training for Border Force staff is a quick way to keep goods moving smoothly across the borders, as will on-the-ground resources to improve customs training.
“There also needs to be plans for a next-generation export development grant or tax relief scheme, taking inspiration from successful international examples, such as the ones used in Australia for decades.
“In the 2026 review of the UK/EU Trade and Cooperation Agreement, the Government should negotiate to remove the need for an intermediary for the EU VAT system. They should also aim for mutual recognition of product standards and professional qualifications in key sectors.
“We were pleased to be invited to work with the Labour Party on an exports taskforce, which will create a better approach to industrial trade and policy, and be published shortly.
“Simplifying international trade for small businesses will allow us to drive significant economic growth and increase resilience. We must not let this opportunity pass us by.”
Stud Brook Business Park takes shape with lead construction contractor appointed
Clowes Developments have confirmed that TanRo will be the lead construction contractor on units 2-7 at the 20-acre Stud Brook Business Park in Castle Donington.
The mixed-use development will include employment, amenity, office and industrial units for sale or let ranging in size from 1,500 to 45,000 sq ft – as well as a retail offer. The units have been designed by IMA Architects.
James Richards, Development Director at Clowes Developments, said: “With the recent success and speed of delivery at Fairham Business Park, we have secured a contract to work with TanRo again on this development which is just a stone’s throw away from Fairham in Castle Donington. We are really pleased to see this site coming to life and we look forward to further cementing our relationship with TanRo on this project.”
Duncan Paterson, Contracts Manager at TanRo, added: “We are delighted to work with Clowes Developments again on this brand-new mixed-use development at Castle Donington.
“At Fairham Business Park, we have consistently delivered high-quality units ahead of schedule, and we are excited to bring the same level of excellence to Stud Brook Business Park. This collaboration underscores our commitment to developing premier commercial property that meet the needs of its occupiers and contributes to the growth of the local economy.”
NG Chartered Surveyors have been appointed as joint agents with FHP Property Consultants to market leasehold opportunities at Stud Brook Business Park.
Local partners celebrate completion of new homes in Blaby District
Representatives from emh group, Blaby District Council, Homes England and Lovell recently met to celebrate the opening of The Villers in Whetstone.
The Villers is an affordable housing development, providing a range of family housing, dementia-friendly bungalows, and supported living for people with a variety of complex needs. The homes are built on a former industrial brownfield site, and the development contains 77 homes with a range of types and sizes, with a split of social rent and shared ownership tenures.
The Villers was delivered by emh group, as part of its Strategic Partnership agreement with Homes England, and in partnership with Blaby District Council and development partners Lovell.
Emh worked closely with Blaby District Council to ensure the development met critical local housing needs and helped to ease pressure on the local need for temporary housing.
Chan Kataria, Group Chief Executive at emh, said: “I’m delighted that we were able to come together with our partners to celebrate the completion of this fantastic scheme.
“Through our strong partnership with Blaby District Council, we have delivered homes that meet the needs of local people, helping them to meet their housing aspirations. I’m proud that we have been able to work with our partners to achieve emh’s ambition of building high-quality homes for thriving communities.”
Ian Jones, Housing Services Manager for Blaby District Council, said: “It is so satisfying to see this development completed. Thanks to our partnership with emh Group and Homes England we now have a range of modern and much-needed affordable new homes in Blaby District. This will enable more people to get on the property ladder as well as access homes at an affordable rent.”
The Villers has seen a high level of demand, particularly for the shared ownership homes which had over 500 people interested in the 39 available homes. All new residents come from the local area, helping them to stay connected to schools, family, friends and support networks.
The Villers is built on land which until recently consisted of derelict industrial buildings and overgrown vegetation. The site has historical significance, being the former home of the Whittle Estate, developed by Air Commodore Sir Frank Whittle, and later an important centre for the nuclear industry and computer research. The site also incorporates part of the embankment of the disused Great Central Railway.
The site has a sense of openness, with homes addressing a soft landscaped area centred around a pond creating a ‘village green’ feel. The connection to open green space is further enhanced through the integration of the wildlife corridor along the former railway line.
Coalville Town FC scores big with donations from Aggregate Industries
Grassroots football team, Coalville Town Youth Football Club, has a new, full size 3G pitch and extended car park thanks to a significant monetary and material donation from construction supplier, Aggregate Industries.
Coalville Town Youth FC started 25 years ago and over the past five years has become a non-profit organisation and then a charity. This enabled the club to be eligible for The Football Foundation and FA grants to improve its facilities.
Before it could receive grant funding for its priority 3G pitch, it was clear from the start that the club would need to raise a minimum of £220,000 to put towards the project. As well as other fundraising efforts by the club, Aggregate Industries’ Bardon Hill Community Fund donated the final £15,000 needed to get the club over the line of its £220,000 barrier.
Not stopping there, the team at Aggregate Industries was keen to offer further support to help the club complete its projects and grow. The business consequently donated 260 tonnes of Type 1 aggregate to complete the car park area at the Owen Street club, allowing parents and local crowds ample space to easily park.
This year Coalville Town Youth FC will have around 1,000 children and young adults signed up to one of its many teams. This includes both male and female football teams across every age group from under sevens to adult teams, mini football for those under the age of six and inclusive football sessions. In addition the facility will be used by the wider community for walking football, wellbeing sessions and as a training venue for other local football clubs and for Coalville Town Rugby Club.
Wayne McDermott, Club Secretary at Coalville Town Youth FC, said: “We are so grateful to Aggregate Industries for not only completing our efforts to raise £220,000 to kickstart our 3G pitch project, but then going above and beyond to donate such a high quantity of material from its local quarry to our car park.
“With our new 3G pitch, we will not only be able to better serve our many youth teams, but also offer more casual games, wellbeing sessions, and an educational program run by Derby County in the Community. In the past we have had to operate over four sites, however that’s changed now the 3G pitch has been installed at Owen Street, and we can use it seven days a week, which will enable it to become an important hub in the local community.”
The new car park was completed just in time for its first use during the club’s annual presentation weekend, which saw all of the players and their families attend to collect awards and celebrate their participation and achievements over the season.
Lee Sleight, Managing Director Aggregates at Aggregates Industries, adds: “When we heard how close Coalville Town FC was to raising the necessary £220,000 for their 3G pitch project, we were more than happy to help get them over the finish line. Upon seeing the great work they do for so many children and young adults in the local community, we knew that there was more we could do to support them and were delighted to be able to utilise our expertise in construction materials to donate the much-needed aggregates for their car park.
“We hope that both the funding and materials help the club continue to flourish and offer a greater breadth of services to Coalville locals.”
Government clears funding for TfL to order ten new Elizabeth Line trains to be built at Derby
The government has confirmed funding for TfL to procure 10 new Elizabeth Line trains to be built by Alstom at Derby, providing certainty for the factory.
Following careful consideration of TfL’s business case, the government has approved TfL’s request for funding for the additional trains.
The trains are needed due to strong passenger demand, expected growth on the Elizabeth Line, and will allow TfL to increase capacity on the network in the coming years.
In accordance with section 101 of the Greater London Authority Act 1999, the government will provide TfL with the capital funding requested for the additional trains only.
Alstom has signed a contract worth around €430 (£370) million for 10 new nine-car Aventra trains for Transport for London’s Elizabeth line, along with associated maintenance until 2046.
“We are delighted to now have a confirmed workload for Derby Litchurch Lane and our supply chain across the UK,” said Nick Crossfield, Managing Director UK and Ireland at Alstom.
He added: “The UK remains one of Alstom’s most important global markets.”
East Midlands Chamber Chief Executive Scott Knowles said: “The base at Litchurch Lane has been a powerhouse of UK train manufacture for decades and is a key driver of both Derby’s economy and the country when you consider the wider supply chain. “With the continued uncertainty the factory has been facing for so long, due to a gap in orders, news of this multimillion-pound order for the Elizabeth Line is welcome, especially as the new trains will be built at the site itself.”