Nottingham student accommodation scheme set for expansion
SNGgroup has secured approval for the expansion of Stanley House, a Grade II listed property and student accommodation in the heart of Nottingham.
The original Stanley House, acquired in December 2017, was transformed into 107 studios and completed in 2019.
Now, in response to the growing demand for student accommodation, SNGgroup has received planning permission for Stanley House Phase II, which will add an additional 45 student and service accommodation units by September 2025.
Stuart Singh, Managing Director of SNGgroup, said: “We are thrilled to announce the expansion of Stanley House. Our goal has always been to provide students with not just a place to live but a modern and secure home that elevates their university experience.
“Nottingham’s student population continues to grow, and we are committed to meeting that demand with high-quality accommodation that is both centrally located and fully equipped with the latest amenities.”
The demand for student accommodation in Nottingham has skyrocketed in recent years. This growth has made it crucial for the city to offer additional housing options. Stanley House Phase II will meet this need by adding 45 new units.
The new addition will also feature a brand-new common area, available for both Stanley House and Stanley House Phase II residents, fostering a sense of community within the two blocks.
Completion of Stanley House Phase II is expected in September 2025.
Joe joins Agrovista to lead glasshouse team
Nottingham-based Agrovista has appointed Joe Shepherdson as glasshouse team manager to help build the company’s position in the protected horticulture sector.
He joins Agrovista from within the industry, backed by eight years’ experience in glasshouse horticulture sales and a further six working for a vegetable breeder, firstly in the UK specialising in cucumbers and hydroponic lettuce, then as product manager for cucumber varieties in Western Europe.
Joe said: “Over the years I have built a passion for the industry – I like the way the horticulture sector works, dealing with down-to-earth people on a face-to-face basis.
“I’ve known of Agrovista for years – it is well set up and has built an excellent reputation, which makes it a very attractive place to work. The new role has brought me back to the UK market, which I had started to miss, and gives me more responsibility at management level, whilst being back on the front line with growers. I look forward working with the team and making the most of the opportunities as we move ahead.”
Mike Bannister, head of glasshouse horticulture said: “Joe has been a welcome addition to the team and is already working alongside me to provide valuable managerial support in all aspects of the business. “Joe brings a wealth of experience and a fresh approach to the business as we continue to strengthen our position in the industry.”
PepsiCo launches new campaign to celebrate women in frontline roles at Leicester, home of Walkers Crisps
Food and drink company PepsiCo has launched a new campaign celebrating women in supply chain and operations roles at its UK sites, including Leicester, aiming to inspire more women to pursue frontline roles.
As part of the ‘She Is PepsiCo’ campaign, portraits of three female employees will replace the current design on trucks used across PepsiCo’s distribution network. This will showcase the women’s major roles in bringing favourites like Sensations, Snack A Jacks and Sunbites to consumers.
The campaign features Manufacturing Technicians Manjit Kaur (59), who started her career chopping potatoes at PepsiCo’s Leicester Walkers factory in 2011, and Ewa Doroslawska (36) from Coventry, whose PepsiCo career spans almost 20 years.
Alex Praja (26), also a Manufacturing Technician who decided to pursue a career in engineering after joining PepsiCo, completes the group of women heroed in the campaign. The trio were nominated by their respective site directors, who were asked to highlight employees consistently going above and beyond in their roles.
Each woman has also received a grant of £5,000 to donate to a local women’s charity of their choice.
This month, the trucks have been officially unveiled at special ceremonies taking place at PepsiCo’s Leicester, Coventry and Skelmersdale sites, and the three charities – Women’s Aid Leicestershire, Young Women’s Trust, and Kairos Women Working Together – presented with cheques. The families, friends and colleagues of Manjit, Ewa and Alex also attended the celebrations.
Alison Atkins, HR Director Supply Chain, PepsiCo UK and Ireland, said: “We’re proud to be spotlighting the incredible work of women in frontline jobs across our sites, and bringing their stories to people all over the UK.
“As well as recognising their crucial role in producing some of the UK’s most-loved snacks, we hope this campaign will inspire more women to pursue careers across the supply chain. Be sure to look out for our special trucks on the roads!”
Commenting on her inclusion in the She Is PepsiCo campaign, Manjit Kaur, Manufacturing Technician – Sensations, Leicester, said: “I’m very proud of this nomination – it’s something I never expected and to get this kind of recognition is amazing.
“It doesn’t matter if you’re a man or a woman, you can reach the same goal if you have a willingness to learn and you put your mind to it.”
80,000 sq ft industrial unit sold on Sherwood Business Park
Lucinda House, an 80,000ft2 industrial/warehouse unit situated on Sherwood Business Park, Nottinghamshire, has been sold.
The premises comprise a modern detached industrial/warehouse unit providing a mixture of storage, production, packing and mezzanine space with offices, canteen and staff welfare facilities.
The property is being sold to a nearby owner occupier as part of their expansion.
Darran Severn of FHP Property Consultants said: “I am pleased the sale of Lucinda House has completed in what has been a great outcome for both our client and the purchaser. After an initial marketing period, we were pleased to agree a sale within a matter of months.
“The sale was not without its complications, but pleasingly we were able to work with all parties to resolve these and complete the sale.
“There’s not much availability between 30,000ft2 and 80,000ft2 across the region on both a leasehold and freehold basis, therefore I would be delighted to hear from any property owners who have a unit of this size, as we are speaking with a number of businesses who wish to locate to a premises such as this one.”
Danielle Upton of Smith Partnership who acted on behalf of the vendor said: “I am delighted to have represented our client in the successful sale of this significant industrial property, and I look forward to supporting them again on their future ventures.
“I am grateful to Darran Severn at FHP for his collaborative and supportive approach to the deal, which enabled the sale to progress as smoothly and efficiently as possible for our mutual client.”
Ministers must look again at key employment proposals after sharp wake-up call from Government’s own watchdog, say small firms
The Federation of Small Businesses (FSB) is urging the Government to address significant concerns about its Employment Rights Bill which have been laid bare this week (Monday) in a report from the official policy watchdog, the Regulatory Policy Committee (RPC).
The RPC has judged that eight of the 23 individual impact assessments (IAs) for the legislation, including some of its biggest measures, were not fit for purpose.
Responding to the findings, Tina McKenzie, Policy Chair of FSB, said: “The RPC’s findings support the concerns that FSB has been raising about the disproportionate impacts on small employers. Red rating after red rating demonstrates that the proposed legislation has simply not been thought through.
“This is a sharp wake-up call for Ministers who must think again about the dangers of a cavalier approach to jobs and work. The country cannot afford to pile further cost and risk on to small employers based on such an overwhelmingly weak evidence base.
“With the red-flagged impact assessments including high-impact measures like formal dismissal from day one, the Government must urgently do the basic work required to understand the impact of its own policies and accurately quantify the likely impacts on employers and the labour market.
“Parliament must step up and make sure it is challenging Ministers’ approach to such consequential legislation. Jobs, wages and living standards will suffer if Government fails to bring forward sensible policy or do the work to understand how and to what extent it is making employment harder and harder to provide.”
MD of Leicester sustainable travel consultancy named Modeshift Honorary Member
Robin Pointon, Managing Director and Founder at GO Travel Solutions, a sustainable travel consultancy based in Leicester, has been named a Team Modeshift Honorary Member. This recognition was given at the 2024 National Modeshift Convention in Leeds, acknowledging Robin’s significant contributions to sustainable travel.
Modeshift, a membership organisation for sustainable travel practitioners, awards the Honorary Member title to individuals who have made a meaningful impact on promoting sustainable travel.
The organisation’s work addresses important global issues such as climate change, air quality, physical activity, road safety, congestion, health and wellbeing, and equal opportunities through encouraging sustainable travel choices.
Robin said: “It’s great to receive this recognition from Modeshift. Sustainable travel is both a professional focus and a personal passion for me. I believe that by combining this passion with partnership working, we can address some of the most pressing health and environmental issues facing our world today.”
Modeshift Chair, Ross Butcher, said: “I’m thrilled to award Robin with Honorary Member status. Each year, we celebrate individuals who have made outstanding contributions to Modeshift and the wider field of sustainable travel.
“Our industry addresses some of the most critical challenges facing the world today—climate change, air quality, physical activity, road safety, congestion, health, equality, and more. With the combined expertise, experience, and passion of Team Modeshift, we can—and will—achieve incredible things when we work together.
“Congratulations, Robin!”
As an Honorary Member, Robin will continue to support Modeshift’s mission to increase levels of sustainable travel, advocate for best practices, and promote the growth of the organisation.
Freeport and Investment Zone status boosts Nottingham and Derby’s foreign investment attractiveness
The East Midlands Freeport and Investment Zone have potentially helped Nottingham and Derby improve their attractiveness to overseas investment significantly – despite the current economic challenges and lower GVA growth forecasts in 2025, says a new report.
The Irwin Mitchell and Centre for Economics and Business Research (Cebr) study examines the latest changes to Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) attractiveness of 50 locations based on 10 economic indicators.
According to the report, the Midlands’ only representation in the top 10 came from Birmingham, which ranked seventh overall. However, compared to the previous quarterly edition, there was a noticeable improvement in the fortunes of other cities in the region with Nottingham scoring 28.4 overall. Derby also improved its score to 33.5.
The report says both cities are benefitting from their relative proximity to the East Midlands Investment Zone and Freeport.
Investment Zones in the UK are designated areas where the government collaborates with local authorities and businesses to foster economic growth and innovation. These zones aim to leverage local strengths and untapped potential by offering a range of incentives, including tax reliefs, planning support, and business assistance.
Freeports are designated areas, typically located at seaports or airports, where normal customs and tax rules do not apply. These zones offer various incentives such as tax reliefs, simplified customs procedures, and reduced tariffs to encourage economic activity, trade, and investment. The aim is to create hubs of innovation and economic growth by attracting businesses that benefit from these regulatory advantages.
Bryan Bletso, Partner and Head of International at Irwin Mitchell, commented on the findings: “Despite the economy facing numerous challenges and setbacks, the level of foreign direct investment into the UK remains strong.
“Our latest report provides valuable insights into the factors driving investment decisions and highlights the importance of strategic locations such as Freeports and Investment Zones.
“The Department for Business & Trade’s latest statistics revealed London accounted for a third of all UK FDI projects in the 12 months to April 2024.
“The findings in our report, which highlight the growing influence of the East Midlands Investment Zone and Freeport, should therefore be considered by policymakers and businesses looking to attract and retain investment in the UK.
“Nottingham and Derby, in particular, are prime examples of how these strategic locations can enhance regional investment appeal.”
Pushpin Singh, Senior Economist at Cebr, said: “Our findings underscore the transformative potential of Investment Zones and Freeports in reshaping the UK’s investment landscape.
“Cities like Derby and Nottingham are emerging as significant beneficiaries, demonstrating how targeted infrastructure and skills development could potentially create hubs of economic opportunity.”
The Office for National Statistics recently published the latest FDI statistics, revealing that the value of the UK’s inward FDI position increased by £126.8 billion, reaching £2,068 billion.
According to the latest statistics from the Department for Business and Trade, 1,555 projects landed in the UK during the 2023/24 financial year because of FDI, resulting in 71,478 new jobs being created. Highlighting the dominance of London, the capital is attracting approximately the same number of FDI projects as the combined number for the Midlands, North West, North East, and Yorkshire.
Plans lodged for mixed-use scheme incorporating underlying caves in Nottingham
Plans for a new mixed-use scheme on Derby Road in Nottingham, incorporating underlying caves, have been submitted to the city council.
The proposals, from Tarry Properties Ltd, include 64 units of Purpose Built Student Accommodation with associated communal areas, laundry and cycle parking, and 29 one bedroom short-stay accommodation units, together with commercial spaces at ground floor and within the caves.
The site currently comprises of a three-storey building that once housed the Dancing Dragon restaurant on the ground floor with private accommodation above, and a one/two storey building that formerly hosted the Ropewalk Pub. Both buildings are vacant and have been for a considerable amount of time.
There are surviving ‘caves’ underneath the former Dancing Dragon which are to be revealed by the proposal.
The plans would see the existing buildings demolished with retention of the facade of number 103-106 retained. The development will be four and five stories high.
A design statement submitted by Arc Design Studio shares: “The proposed redevelopment at Canning Circus aims to revitalize a historically vibrant yet currently underutilized area. The project will feature purposebuilt student and short-stay accommodation, offering a range of high-quality residential units tailored to Nottingham’s growing student population.
“The ground floor will house commercial spaces, enhancing the activity along Derby Road. This blend of residential and commercial uses will not only provide essential housing but also stimulate economic activity and promote social interaction in the public realm.
“The building’s design includes a distinctive corner feature that wraps around key routes, boosting visibility and enhancing the area’s visual appeal. This strategic design is intended to establish a dynamic and inviting gateway to the city, benefiting both the local economy and urban landscape.
“Additionally, the Dancing Dragon building includes a cave entrance currently used for storage. The proposal seeks to transform this unique feature into a bar/restaurant, aimed at increasing foot traffic and serving the public.”
Lincolnshire firm’s industrial workwear business acquired
Lindström Group, a textile service company, is acquiring Lincolnshire-based Micronclean’s industrial workwear business in the UK.
This transaction is set to enhance Lindström’s position in the UK market and expand its customer base, particularly in the heavy industry sector.
The deal is an asset transaction where Lindström acquires the customer contracts and related textiles, and transfers Micronclean’s on-site service personnel to Lindström. Micronclean are closing their Grantham site and to ensure uninterrupted service, the clients will transfer to Lindström.
The company has been operating a workwear laundry in Grantham that serves currently over 180 customers mainly from heavy industry and food industry. The deal will grow Lindström’s customer base and market reach, especially in these industries.
Micronclean is a family-owned textile service company focused on offering workwear and cleanroom services in the UK and India. The company employs altogether over 400 people.
Lindström has been operating in the UK since 2001. The service offering covers workwear and industrial wipers, with over 4,400 customers. Lindström employs 140 people and operates service centres in Bedford, Bradford and Manchester, in addition to four others in the industrial wiper business.
“We attach great importance on the brilliant customer service and offering great value. Micronclean has been known for its quality, innovation, and customer-centric approach — values that resonate with our own,” says Ian Muir, Managing director of Lindström Ltd.
Sports hospitality company strikes £300k debt finance deal
Nottingham-based Vision4Sport Events has secured £300,000 debt finance from the Midlands Engine Investment Fund II to support its sports hospitality business.
Founded in 2014 by former professional golfers Chris Newbold and Karl Wesson, V4SE has grown from a side venture into a provider of elite event packages for private clients, including Wimbledon, Formula One, the Ryder Cup, and exclusive golf tours. With demand steadily increasing, V4SE has achieved a strong post-pandemic recovery, reaching a projected turnover of over £3m in 2024.
The £300,000 new investment will provide additional working capital that will help drive strategic growth across key areas, including an expanded presence at global events such as the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, Las Vegas Grand Prix, and The Players Championship at Sawgrass. To support this growth, V4SE will create new local roles in sales, business development, and finance.
Chris Newbold said: “Like many businesses, the pandemic had a huge impact on us and our ability to operate. The investment from the Midlands Engine Investment Fund II and the support Maven has shown will allow us to grow the business to new heights with some exciting projects and events being added to the portfolio.
“In the short time since completion, we have already added to our workforce and look forward to further recruitment over the coming months and years. Investment has often felt like a daunting prospect in the past but the clear dialogue with the Maven team throughout the process along with their clear support for what we do, has been extremely helpful and encouraging.”
Jonathan Lowe, Partner – Regional Debt Funds at Maven, said: “We are pleased to support Vision4Sport as they enter this exciting new chapter. Their resilience and dedication to exceptional service, even through recent challenges, are a testament to their strength in the sports hospitality sector. Our investment will provide V4SE with the capital, expertise, and strategic insight to continue building on a solid foundation, realising ambitious growth plans, and seizing new opportunities in the market.”
Jody Tableporter, Director at British Business Bank, said: “The Midlands Engine Investment Fund II was launched to help ambitious entrepreneurs and small businesses to scale up and grow. This investment in Vision4Sport further highlights the importance of having access to the right type of finance at the right time. It will enable the business to expand, create new jobs, and make a positive impact in the region.”
Residential land sold in Leicestershire
Catesby Estates has sold a residential site in Countesthorpe, Leicestershire, to Miller Homes.
The 18.5 acre site is located adjacent to Foston Road and Leicester Road and has outline planning for 170 energy efficient homes; of which 25% are affordable, and public open space with play areas.
An outline planning application was registered with Blaby District Council in January 2024, and went before planning committee in July 2024, receiving a majority in favour resolution to grant.
Following this, the sale completed in October 2024, resulting in a 10 month turnaround from the submission of the application to a land sale.
Myron Osborne, Chief Executive of Catesby Estates, said: “Achieving a local level consent for this non-allocated site and securing a buyer within a short time frame of just 10 months is testament to the hard work and skill of the in-house Catesby team, as well as the appetite from housebuilders to acquire prime residential land.
“This deal represents our second sale to Miller Homes in recent months, and with a reputation for delivering high quality, award-winning new homes, we look forward to seeing them take this through its final planning stages and delivering sought-after, energy efficient homes for the area.”
Aaron Grainger, Head of Land at Miller Homes, said: “We are delighted to have acquired this site. We were committed to completing this deal quickly and worked closely with Catesby Estates to achieve this. We are looking forward to when our reserved matters consent is secured, and we can start work on delivering quality new housing for the area.”
Natalie Edwards at Eversheds and Victoria Potterill-Tilney at Gowling WLG worked on the legals, and Trevor Wells of Wells McFarlane acted for the landowner.
The Access Group swoops for charity CRM software provider
The Access Group, a Loughborough-headquartered provider of business management software, is acquiring Donorfy, a UK-based provider of CRM software for charities.
New Planetarium blasts off in Sutton
The wonders of the universe are to be brought to life as a new £6.8 million Planetarium prepares for liftoff.
Sherwood Observatory Science Discovery Centre and Planetarium is a joint project between Mansfield and Sutton Astronomical Society and Ashfield District Council. The project is one of 16 being funded by the Council’s £62.6million Towns Deal.
It has now welcomed its first visitors to the state-of-art facility as they were transported out of this world.
The world class centre has seen a disused underground Victorian reservoir transformed into 59-seater Planetarium showing a journey through space with immersive shows. The original features of the reservoir, such as the intricate brick arches, have been kept, preserving the history of the building.
It also features an exhibition hall, classrooms, meeting rooms and café. It will open to the public on Monday 25 November.
Cllr Jason Zadrozny, Leader of Ashfield District Council, said: “It really is spectacular and it is something that will transform the lives of not just the people of Ashfield but also further afield.
“It has been incredible to see the building through the various stages of construction and to see the vision really come to life. I am proud to have been some small part of the process.
“The immersive shows really are incredible and I would encourage everyone to make sure they experience the Planetarium and all that it has to offer. This is something so unique and will see more visitors coming to Ashfield as they are transported through space.
“It truly is an educational experience like no other and hopefully will see more young people develop an interest in learning more about space.”
Steve Wallace, Planetarium Project Manager, said: “This project has been a great example of how collaborative effort can produce amazing things.
“Our fantastic new Planetarium and Science Centre, sitting alongside our original observatory will be a huge draw to bring people to the area and to inspire the next generation of scientists and engineers. We cannot wait to welcome our first visitors when we open our doors on the 25 November.”
Adrian Grocock, Group Managing Director of G F Tomlinson which delivered the project, said: “We are delighted to have completed works to this unique and significant Nottinghamshire landmark scheme – providing a world-class immersive facility for all ages in the heart of the Midlands.
“The Sherwood Observatory will inspire and entertain visitors, and for many years to come they will enjoy the learnings that come with understanding the wonder and science of space.
“We’ve wholeheartedly enjoyed working alongside the Sherwood Observatory team, Ashfield District Council and other stakeholders who helped in bringing this incredible project to life.”
Company fined after an explosion injures employees
A company which produces electricity from food waste by anaerobic digestion has been fined more than £300,000 after an explosion caused two employees to suffer life changing injuries.
The metal tank the two men were working on was projected high into the air before crashing to the ground nine seconds later.
On 20 September 2017, two employees of Bio Dynamic (UK) Limited were using a grinder to cut and replace pipework at the top of an 11-metre high metal tank containing waste slurry. They were not using harnesses. Sparks from the grinder ignited flammable gasses causing the tank to explode.
Footage of the explosion captured by CCTV has now been released.
Tomasz Patek was flung out of the mobile elevating work platform (MEWP) into the air and landed on the ground in the slurry around the tank. He suffered serious injuries to his back, head and torso and was in hospital for two months. His injuries were so severe that he was not able to work for more than two years.
Tomasz suffers from pre and post-traumatic amnesia and has no specific recollection of the events. In a statement, he said: “After the accident, I was unable to recover emotionally.
“I did not realise what had happened and was in deep shock. I could not cope with the pain. I could not accept an accident had happened to me.”
Robert Tyrko was thrown into the air and landed back in the basket of the MEWP. Following the incident, Robert’s leg was amputated and he remains wheelchair bound as treatment is still ongoing to receive a prosthesis. Also, he sustained a fractured skull and a piece of metal in his elbow that continues to affect his daily life.
In his statement, Robert explains how the explosion has affected his day-to-day life: “This whole situation is having a huge impact on my relationship. I can’t help my wife in anything like I used to be able to. Magda is both wife and husband because all my responsibilities fell on her; along with the kids.
“Also my personality is explosive. I lose my patience very quickly. I attended appointments with a psychologist because I had nightmares that I was still having this accident.”
A joint investigation by the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) and the Environment Agency found that the company had failed to ensure the health and safety of its employees and others nearby.
The company had kept and treated waste in a manner likely to cause pollution to the environment. The explosion was caused by multiple failures in the company’s management system and exacerbated by multiple breaches of the company’s environmental permit.
At a hearing at Nottingham Crown Court on 22 November 2024, Bio Dynamic (UK) Limited, of Colwick Industrial Estate, Nottingham:
- pleaded guilty to breaching Section 2(1) and Section 3(1) of the Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974.
- pleaded guilty to breaching regulation 38(2) of the Environmental Permitting (England & Wales) Regulations 2016 (EPR), and s.33(1)(c) of the Environmental Protection Act 1990 (EPA).
Plans submitted for new mixed-use development in Boston
Boston Borough Council has submitted a planning application for the redevelopment of the Crown House site on the Rosegarth Square regeneration scheme.
The Crown House proposal, subject to planning consent, would see a new mixed-use building featuring retail units on the ground floor and apartments on the remaining two storeys above. The scheme will also be enhanced with landscaping, parking and cycle storage to complement the overall Rosegarth Square masterplan. The scheme aims to transform Rosegarth Square as a thriving community space. It will provide the opportunity for the retail units to offer outside dining as well as the wider area being used by family and friends to meet up and enjoy this part of the town.
Within these proposals the Council has also taken the opportunity to provide new public toilet facilities and to relocate the existing Changing Places facility. In addition, the council has also submitted demolition notices for both Crown House and the former B&M buildings, marking an important milestone in transforming this area of the town centre.
These plans follow in the footsteps of the recently approved planning consent for the proposed public realm works, which features new artwork, external social spaces, and a new entrance/drop-off area for the Len Medlock Centre. It will also include a sensory garden designed for quiet contemplation and reflection, as well as an amphitheatre-style seating area.
Councillor Anne Dorrian, Leader of Boston Borough Council, said: “The submission of the planning application is another major milestone in transforming this run-down part of town into an exciting new space for everyone.
“By integrating with the wider Rosegarth Square redevelopment, the proposal is expected to bring lasting benefits to Boston, improving the area’s visual appearance, accessibility, and community potential.
“It’s been a long-held aim of mine to be able to respond to resident’s concerns regarding the provision of public toilets so I am delighted that we are able to offer these improved facilities much nearer to the town centre.
“The plans reflect our commitment to bring a brighter future for our town and a place where Boston people, businesses and visitors can all be proud of.”
Derbyshire charity secures Big Lottery funding to expand work
The pioneering work by Derbyshire’s specialist child exploitation charity, Safe and Sound, has been further recognised with Big Lottery funding – enabling the charity to provide specialist support to more young people and families across the city and county.
The three-year funding will enable the charity to expand its ‘Transforming Young Lives’ programme – helping children and young people who are at risk or are victims of child exploitation and their families move forward with their lives.
This is in response to the increasing demand for its services and support which has grown from 100 cases in 2019 to supporting 385 children and young people in 2023/4.
Thanks to the funding, Safe and Sound will provide:
- Specialist one to one and group support for young people affected by child exploitation including online grooming, sexual exploitation, criminal exploitation (including County Lines), trafficking, modern slavery and radicalisation
- Specialist support for families where a child has been affected by exploitation
- Specialist support for young people and families through work in those communities that need a bespoke approach such as new arrivals
- Engagement with schools and community groups to raise awareness of the dangers facing young people online and in person
- Coordination and training for a growing volunteer base who support in a wide range of youth and outreach provision, fundraising and administrative work
Leicester event agency makes acquisition
Premier Events, a full-service event agency, has acquired PYTCH, an event production and technology company. This strategic acquisition marks a significant milestone for both Premier Events and PYTCH, as they join forces to create an “industry-leading, fully integrated, full-service event agency.”
Based in Leicester, Premier Events’ headquarters are equipped with over 30,000 pieces of AV equipment, multiple studios, a specialist woodshop and the firm employs a team of 40 professionals across seven key event service departments.
Ben McCarthy, Managing Director of Premier Events, said: “This acquisition is a major milestone for both Premier and PYTCH and a step forward in our mission to become an industry-leading, fully integrated, full-service event agency.
“Building on our strong organic growth in recent years, this partnership will help power our growth plans for 2025 and beyond.”
Johnny Palmer, founder of PYTCH, said: “After 25 years of being in the live events industry, I am delighted to announce that Premier Events have acquired PYTCH. They are a great fit, and Premier will manage the PYTCH brand, clients, and key staff moving forward.
“I am super excited to see how Ben and the team grow their larger operation, and I will remain available to support them in any areas required in the foreseeable future.”
The integration of PYTCH brings expanded benefits for clients of both companies. By combining Premier’s established strengths in AV production, event and delegate management, and creative services, with PYTCH’s cutting-edge technology, clients can expect a streamlined experience with access to a wider range of innovative solutions.
“We are excited to welcome PYTCH into the Premier Events family,” added McCarthy. “Their talent and technology perfectly complement our services and will enable us to deliver even more value to clients. This acquisition strengthens our roots as a premier AV provider and positions us to drive that area of our business forward.”
Trading beats expectations at Games Workshop
Trading is ahead of expectations at Games Workshop, the Nottingham-based manufacturer of miniature wargames, with results outperforming last year.
In a new update the firm revealed that, for the six months to 1 December 2024, core revenue is expected to be no less than £260 million, rising from £235.6 million last year, and licensing revenue is expected to be no less than £30 million, up from £13 million.
The Group’s profit before tax, meanwhile, is estimated to be not less than £120 million, ticking up from £96.1 million.
The business’s half yearly report will be released on 14 January 2025.
University offers free digital support for East Midlands businesses
Nottingham Trent University (NTU) in partnership with East Midlands Chamber is offering up to 12 hours of free digital support for businesses in areas across the East Midlands.
The support will be provided by a student Digital Skills Coach from NTU; businesses are invited to apply, highlighting the support they are looking for, and will be matched with the Coach with the most relevant skills.
The skills on offer from the NTU Digital Skills Coaches include:
- DATA MANAGEMENT AND ANALYSIS using Excel
- EMAIL SKILLS – email distribution and maximising email impact
- SOCIAL MEDIA tuition – platforms, set-up, posts, etc
- PAID MEDIA – explore paid socials, paid media and automated advertising
- SEARCH ENGINE OPTIMISATION (SEO) – improving website content to increase online ranking
- DIGITAL MARKETING support – creating content for websites, newsletters and social media
- Discover MARKETING TOOLS for your business
- Using tools such as GRAMMARLY to check written content
- Utilise MICROSOFT TEAMS to improve communications, information sharing across your team and hold virtual meetings
- How AI TOOLS can support your business with research, data analysis or content writing
- PROJECT MANAGEMENT TOOLS to support your business
- Produce ENGAGING PRESENTATIONS – make the most of presentation platforms such as Prezi, Canva and MS PowerPoint.
