Office building let at The Triangle
A major office deal has been completed at one of Nottingham’s most prestigious addresses.
The transaction has seen the 4,055 sq ft building on the NG2 Business Park, on the fringe of Nottingham city centre, let.
The two-storey building sits alongside existing occupiers including Experian, Mercedes Benz, Jaguar, Land Rover, Pentland, Specsavers, Staffline and VF Northern Europe.
Charlotte Steggles, Director at NG Chartered Surveyors, brokered the deal on behalf of a private landlord client. Amy Howard of FHP Property Consultants acted for the new tenant.
Charlotte said: “This is a great outcome for both the new occupier and our forward-thinking landlord who has continued to invest in The Triangle.
“This city fringe location combines the benefits of city centre premises with the attraction of a modern business park environment that also provides good access to the city’s main arterial route, and this deal shows that demand for high quality office space is very much alive and kicking in the city.”
Amy said: “We are pleased to have successfully assisted our retained client in securing their office suite after an extensive year-long search for the ideal fit for their requirements.
“NG2 Business Park, located on the fringe of Nottingham city, offers a prime location with nearby amenities such as cafes, bars and restaurants as well as excellent transport links and secure parking. The business park provides the perfect out-of-town office space within an in-town location.”
2025 Business Predictions: David Roberts, owner and founder of JDR Group
It’s that time of year, when Business Link Magazine invites the region’s business leaders to offer up their predictions for the year ahead.
It has become something of a tradition, given that we’ve been doing this now for over 30 years.
Here we speak to David Roberts, owner and founder of Derby digital marketing agency JDR Group.
2024 has been a pivotal year for the marketing industry, particularly for SMEs.
More business owners are recognising the importance of digital marketing, not just to attract customers but to streamline operations, align marketing and sales and improve decision-making through data-driven insights.
The ability of CRMs to automate processes, track KPIs, and predict outcomes is becoming a fundamental part of business strategy and companies which invest in CRMs and AI-driven platforms are reaping the benefits.
Both these technologies had a significant effect on SMEs during 2024.
Demand for marketing agencies remains strong, but there’s a noticeable trend of businesses attempting to bring marketing in-house. While this can provide a sense of control, it often leads to challenges in managing marketing and sales effectively, resulting in missed opportunities.
Marketing agencies that stay ahead of technological advancements, especially in AI, and demonstrate their value to clients will continue to thrive.
Agencies will need to demonstrate they can deliver better results faster, which requires constant upskilling and investment in technology, and they will need to clearly communicate their value and show measurable results to retain clients.
We are confident and optimistic about 2025, because we have experienced downturns before and this experience gives us a strong foundation to navigate whatever 2025 brings.
The biggest factor influencing businesses in 2025 will be uncertainty, particularly regarding the new government’s policies, taxation, and economic trends. New employment laws, rising taxes, and energy policy changes are all likely to affect SMEs.
These factors could have a knock-on effect on smaller businesses in their supply chains or local economies, so businesses will need to plan ahead, understand their ideal customers and implement systems to attract and retain those customers.
Marketing agencies will need to be proactive in helping them with this, while they will need to also be mindful of new technology which will affect the marketplace.
We know about the effect of AI, which will continue to transform marketing, but also we are looking at driverless cars in the USA, where the technology is advancing rapidly and where Tesla is looking to launch innovations, and blockchain.
Companies will need to stay informed about all of these innovations to ensure they do not miss out on any opportunities they’ll bring during the next 12 months.
Nottingham team acts on major petrol stations purchase
Law firm Freeths Nottingham has advised Zuber Issa, CEO of EG On The Move, on the acquisition of Applegreen’s 98 petrol filling stations across the UK, boosting its forecourt presence.
The purchase is expected to be completed by the end of the month, bolstering the business’s sites to almost 150. EG On The Move is known for its electric vehicle fast charging features and franchises.
As part of the deal, all 1,142 Applegreen’s UK petrol filling roles will be retained, bringing the EG On The Move employee headcount to 4,500.
The transaction was led by Freeths’ Real Estate Partner Atiyya Khaliq, supported by (amongst others) Managing Associates Michaela Maosn and Zac Clayton, and Associate Sam De La Bertauche.
Commenting on the deal, Atiyya Khaliq said: “As a long-standing client, it’s always a pleasure to support the team with its ongoing strategic growth. This deal secures a wider presence across the South of England, cementing its position as leader within the market.”
UK economy returns to growth
The UK’s economy returned to growth in November.
According to new figures from the Office for National Statistics (ONS), GDP (gross domestic product), a key measure of economy growth, expanded by 0.1%, although this was below expectations of 0.2% growth. It reverses a 0.1% fall in October.
It reflects, across key sectors, monthly services output expanding by 0.1% in November, after falling by 0.1% in October, construction output increasing by 0.4% in November, following a fall of 0.3% in October, and production output falling by 0.4% in November, following a fall of 0.6% in October.
UK GDP showed no growth in the three months to November.
Ben Jones, CBI Lead Economist, said: “After a string of disappointing data, it’s good to see that growth returned to positive territory in November, though the economy is still only on track for a very modest expansion at best over the final quarter of last year.
“In the wake of the Autumn Budget a mood of caution seems to have settled over UK businesses. Many firms are entering 2025 with a focus on reducing operational expenditure, which is likely to weigh on pay, hiring and investment in the months ahead.
“The Government can help shift the UK’s economic narrative with more determined focus on measures that could underpin growth.
“Reforming the business rates system, implementing flexibility in the Apprenticeship Levy and supporting people to stay in work through expanding employer occupational health provision would give businesses immediate flex for investment.
“In the long-term there is a pressing need to develop an effective industrial strategy that supports our whole economy.”
Plans to revitalise Boston’s Rosegarth Square take step forward with Crown House redevelopment approval
The planning application for the redevelopment of Boston’s Crown House has been approved. This mixed-use building will be a prominent part of the Rosegarth Square area.
The Crown House development will 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, as well as relocating the current toilets and Changing Place into the new building. 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. The changes to the area will also enable quick and easy access to both the bus and train stations and become the gateway to the heart of Boston. This project is a significant part of the Rosegarth Square transformation. With planning permission and demolition notices, Boston Borough Council can now start with the next steps of this project.
The 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 David Middleton, Chair of Planning Committee at Boston Borough Council, said: “The approval of the Crown House redevelopment is a significant milestone for Rosegarth Square and for Boston as a whole. This project exemplifies how thoughtful planning can transform underused spaces into vibrant hubs that benefit the entire community.
“The committee was impressed with the vision and detail in the plans, which will not only enhance the area’s aesthetic appeal but also provide practical benefits like improved connectivity and new facilities. We look forward to seeing this exciting development come to life.”
Nottinghamshire’s DEA Aviation secures new multi-million pound finance package
DEA Aviation, a specialised aerial data-acquisition company based in Nottinghamshire, has secured a multi-million pound finance package with Santander UK, supported by UK Export Finance (UKEF).
Natural energy snack brand raises £2.4m to fuel growth
TRIBE – the natural energy snack brand with a manufacturing site in Leicester – has raised £2.4m in a funding round led by Mercia Ventures and including Yeo Ventures, Crowdcube and private investors.
The funding will enable it to continue its rapid growth and make seven new senior appointments.
TRIBE’s products are all vegan, gluten-free and contain only natural ingredients. They are stocked at health food stores and major supermarkets such as Sainsbury’s, Tesco, Waitrose, the Co-op and Morrisons.
The company gives one pence from every TRIBE bar sold to its sister charity, TRIBE Freedom Foundation. To date over 400,000 people have taken part in its runs and events and it has raised more than £1.9m to combat modern slavery.
TRIBE was founded in 2015 by former lawyers Robert Martineau and Tom Stancliffe, who had previously set up Run for Love, a 1,000-mile run to raise funds to combat modern slavery. After realising they could not find energy snacks without refined sugars and additives, they decided to make their own.
TRIBE delivered revenue of £4m in 2024 and plans to reach over £20m by 2027. The company, which has its head office in London, employs a ten-strong team and uses a network of subcontractors, with logistics carried out in Dudley and manufacturing at sites in Leicester, Chester, Rochdale and Corwen, Wales.
As part of the funding round, the company has appointed a new Chair in the form of Steve Rich, the former Managing Director of FulFil who led its sale to Ferrero for £140m in 2022.
Tom Stancliffe, co-founder of TRIBE, said: “Our journey began with a 1,000-mile run to fight modern slavery and our mission is to fuel active lives with natural energy.
“We are really excited and proud to partner with Mercia and Yeo Ventures for the next stage in our journey. Our new Chair, Steve Rich, also brings huge experience and knowledge to our Board as we look to accelerate our growth.”
Rafael Joseph of Mercia Ventures added: “With consumers moving away from ultra-processed foods, healthy snacks are amongst the fastest-growing grocery categories.
“Restrictions on displaying ‘unhealthy’ foods in supermarkets are also bolstering TRIBE’s sales. TRIBE has all the ingredients for success – an exceptional product underpinned by consumer trends and the ideal team to back it up.”
Christopher Gale, Investment Manager at Yeo Ventures, said: “We are delighted to be partnering with Tom and Rob, alongside the team at Mercia Ventures, to support TRIBE in the next phase of its growth journey.
“Positioned at the intersection of sports nutrition and healthy snacking, TRIBE provides a natural alternative to the ultra-processed products that no longer meet the needs of today’s health-conscious consumers.
“TRIBE aligns well with our thesis to drive the transition towards a natural and healthy food system, and we look forward to seeing the meaningful impact that the business will have in this evolving market.”
State-of-the-art storage facility completed for Rolls-Royce in Derby
Indurent, a developer and operator of industrial and logistics space across the UK, has completed and handed over a 148,000 sq ft state-of-the-art warehouse facility for Rolls-Royce.
The bespoke storage facility, which is located at Indurent Park Derby, will support the company’s significant manufacturing operation in Derby and increase space in its operational areas.
The unit has been built to the highest sustainability standards, achieving a BREEAM ‘Excellent’ accreditation and an EPC A+ rating for energy efficiency.
The Indurent team worked closely with Rolls-Royce throughout the design and build process, with the specification being adapted to meet Rolls-Royce’s exact needs, including enhanced floor loading three times greater than a standard floor, the installation of a single 12m high door and 100-ton capacity crane for the movement of valuable heavy parts.
The facility is equipped with 1MV of power with solar panels installed across the roof space for on site power generation to reduce energy costs. Indurent has also overseen the delivery and installation of bespoke climate control and lighting systems to the warehouse.
Indurent Park Derby is a 50-acre industrial park. In addition to Rolls-Royce, it is home to heat pump manufacturer Vaillant and Swedish medical technology company Getinge, which has established a Global Centre of Excellence for Chemistry at the park alongside its UK headquarters. Kia has also established their national base for training and development associated with their range of electric vehicles.
Rob Richardson, Development Director at Indurent, said: “We are extremely proud to complete and hand over this state-of-the-art facility for Rolls-Royce, a globally-renowned company which is at the forefront of innovation in manufacturing.
“The arrival of Rolls-Royce to Indurent Park Derby adds to the cluster of high-tech R&D and manufacturing businesses in Derby and underlines that the development of versatile industrial and logistics space, with the availability of a large amount of power, is critical for supporting high-growth sectors, creating a diverse mix of employment and boosting local economies.”
Terry Meighan, Infrastructure Director at Rolls-Royce, added: “The project was delivered on time and on budget but, most importantly, it was done safely. This facility is key to delivering our wider site redevelopment work and is the first of our significant builds to be completed.”
Winvic Construction was the lead contractor for Indurent on the unit, who were supported by Wakemans as project manager.
Affordable housing development site acquired in Langley Mill
Social enterprise Places for People (PfP) has acquired an affordable housing development site in Langley Mill, Derbyshire, working in partnership with Derby-based developer Wheeldon Brothers Ltd.
The Langley Mill site will be a key development supporting the launch of the organisation’s new apprenticeship and skills initiative PfP Thrive based out of its headquartered academy in Derby.
The new development will feature 109 homes, including 43 two- and three-bedroom homes for shared ownership and 66 homes for affordable rent. Designed as a mix of semi-detached, terraced and detached properties, each home will offer modern interiors and two dedicated parking spaces.
Phased construction is scheduled to begin in April 2025 and the sales launch planned for early 2026.
Nilam Buchanan, Regional Managing Director for Central and North at Places for People, said: “This development represents an important opportunity to provide high quality, affordable homes for the Langley Mill area, enhancing its appeal as a desirable place to live.
“With shared ownership making new-build homes more accessible, and the combination of high-quality design and excellent connectivity, the scheme promises to appeal to a diverse range of residents, contributing to a thriving and inclusive community.
“Thanks to our successful collaboration with Wheeldon Brothers, we are pleased to address the demand for new housing in this location and we are actively seeking further development sites in the East Midlands.”
Founder of Leicester sustainable travel consultancy appointed to board of Modeshift
Robin Pointon, Managing Director and Founder of Leicester-based sustainable travel consultancy GO Travel Solutions, has been appointed to the board of Modeshift, a membership organisation for sustainable travel practitioners.
Robin has extensive experience in the transportation sector, having worked with Leicestershire County Council and Midland Fox/Arriva in public transport roles. As the founder of GO Travel Solutions in 2008, Robin has been dedicated to developing innovative travel planning solutions that encourage sustainability.
“I am excited to be joining the Modeshift board and support its national initiatives,” said Robin. “I believe my experience in sustainable travel will be beneficial to Modeshift’s future endeavours and I look forward to fostering positive change through collaborative partnerships.”
Ross Butcher, Chair of Modeshift, welcomed Robin to the board: “We are delighted to have Robin join the Modeshift board. His extensive experience and commitment to sustainable travel will be a valuable addition to our efforts in promoting and advancing sustainable travel practices across the country.”
Topping out held at new local centre in Leicestershire
A topping out ceremony has been held at a new local centre at New Lubbesthorpe in Leicestershire which is being delivered by developer Charterpoint in association with The Drummond Trust.
The event was attended by delegates from Blaby District Council – councillors and planners, Lubbesthorpe Parish Council, Leicestershire County Council, Forest House Medical Centre, The OWLS Academy Trust, the local Primary Care Network, Bentley Project Management and surveyor CJ Consilium, who joined representatives from Charterpoint and The Drummond Trust for the event.
It marked a significant milestone in the construction of the two-storey, mixed-use development known as the Brook Centre.
When completed, it will house a Sainsbury’s Local store and four additional units for retail, including a café/bistro, on the ground floor, with the first floor being occupied by Forest House Medical Centre.
Charterpoint MD Giles Nursey said: “We were very pleased to stage a topping out ceremony at Brook Centre to mark a key milestone in the delivery of this important community facility for New Lubbesthorpe.
“It was the perfect opportunity for the Charterpoint team to demonstrate the progress that has been made on site. Once completed, Brook Centre will provide new retail facilities and a café/bistro, plus a new base for Forest House Medical Centre – all enhancing the facilities of this pioneering new community.”
Brook Centre will be the first local centre at the new community in Blaby which will eventually include more than 4,000 new homes.
It was designed by Franklin Ellis Architects and is being built by Derby-based contractor Davlyn Construction on behalf of Charterpoint and The Drummond Trust. Work is expected to be completed by spring 2025.
Land sold for new Coalville care home
The former Coalville Van Centre and associated buildings located just off Ashby Road in Coalville have been sold in a deal arranged by specialist land development and property consultancy Mather Jamie.
The site has been sold to Deeley Group and the company has agreed a deal with Exemplar Health Care to deliver a new care home which will provide comprehensive care for adults living with complex mental health needs, dementia, neuro-disabilities, and physical disabilities.
Deeley Group has now started work on the development with an anticipated completion date in 2026.
Work is underway to demolish the existing buildings to make way for the new care home which will feature 36 en-suite bedrooms split across three units.
Exemplar Health Care currently operates 50 complex care services across England.
Commenting on the deal, Sam Tyler from Mather Jamie, said: “This will be an exciting development for Coalville and ensure valuable brownfield land is utilised to deliver much needed local services which in turn will also create employment opportunities.”
Commenting on the acquisition of the site, Eleanor Deeley, Joint Managing Director at Deeley Group, said: “As demand for high-quality, complex care grows, we are delighted to have been able to secure a site to deliver this for those in Coalville and the surround areas.
“We are delighted that Mather Jamie has helped us to secure the site and to be working to deliver the 36-bed scheme for Exemplar Health Care, this is our sixth scheme with Exemplar and further cements our partnership.”
Optimising logistics: how technology is transforming fleet management
Logistics often resembles a complex balancing act, where efficiency, compliance, and cost must be managed simultaneously. The introduction of cutting-edge technology is reshaping how businesses handle their logistics, leading to significant improvements in performance and cost-effectiveness. Advanced software solutions allow companies to streamline processes and gain a competitive edge in logistics operations.
The impact of technology on logistics efficiency
Technological advancements are revolutionising the logistics industry by automating processes that were once time-consuming and manual. Automated systems empower businesses to manage shipments and inventory more effectively. For example, automated route optimisation tools enable the creation of the most efficient delivery routes, factoring in variables such as traffic patterns and delivery schedules. This enhances the speed of deliveries and reduces fuel costs, thus boosting overall operational efficiency. A GPS fleet tracking system further enhances logistics efficiency by providing real-time location data for vehicles, allowing companies to optimise their fleet’s performance. Predictive analytics plays a crucial role in logistics management by analysing historical data to forecast demand accurately. This capability enables businesses to optimise inventory levels and plan for fluctuations in supply and demand. By taking a proactive approach, companies can reduce waste, improve service levels, and enhance customer satisfaction. These technologies contribute to operational efficiency while providing valuable insights that inform strategic decision-making.Enhancing compliance and safety through technological solutions
Adhering to regulatory requirements is an essential part of logistics management. By using compliance tools, businesses can effectively meet local and international regulations, avoiding fines and operational interruptions. Automating compliance reporting simplifies this process, ensuring companies maintain necessary documentation and consistently track safety standards without errors. Additionally, technology has enhanced safety measures within logistics operations. Software solutions that offer vehicle inspection features enable detailed assessments and maintenance management. By proactively conducting inspections and staying on top of maintenance schedules, businesses can prevent breakdowns and accidents, ensuring the safety of drivers and cargo. Driver monitoring systems contribute significantly to safety as well. These technologies track driver behaviour, such as speeding and harsh braking, providing opportunities for coaching and improvement. Prioritising safety protects assets, mitigates liability, and enhances a company’s reputation in the market.The role of real-time data in logistics decision-making
Real-time data access is a transformative element of modern logistics management. Connected devices allow companies to monitor operations continuously, gaining insights into delivery statuses, vehicle conditions, and driver performance. This capability enables businesses to make informed decisions quickly, addressing issues as they arise and ensuring smooth operations. Visibility is vital in logistics. Real-time tracking enhances supply chain transparency, enabling companies to address traffic delays or maintenance disruptions quickly. This responsiveness reduces losses and builds trust with customers who rely on timely, dependable service. Utilising data analytics alongside real-time information provides a comprehensive view of operations. Businesses can identify trends and uncover inefficiencies, making data-driven decisions that enhance logistics processes. This analytical approach fosters a proactive mindset, empowering businesses to anticipate challenges rather than merely react to them.Streamlining supply chains with integrated technologies
Integrating technology solutions into a cohesive logistics strategy can significantly streamline supply chains. Connecting different systems creates a seamless flow of information that enhances communication and collaboration among stakeholders. An integrated approach ensures that everyone, from suppliers to customers, has access to the same data, fostering transparency and trust. Collaboration tools enable improved communication among all parties in the logistics process. When suppliers, manufacturers, and distributors share real-time information, they can coordinate more effectively, reducing delays and misunderstandings. This cooperative method is particularly important during disruptions, where quick adjustments are essential to maintain service levels. Incorporating machine learning into logistics systems can further enhance decision-making. Algorithms can analyse historical data and predict outcomes, assisting businesses in identifying the best course of action in various scenarios. This increases operational efficiency and allows companies to respond proactively to market changes.Implementing technology solutions: best practices for local businesses
For businesses in the East Midlands seeking to optimise their logistics operations, implementing technology solutions effectively is crucial. Conducting a thorough assessment of current processes helps identify areas for improvement. Engaging with technology partners that offer tailored solutions can pinpoint the best tools to suit specific business needs. Training staff to adapt to new technologies is equally important. Ensuring employees understand the benefits and functionality of new systems fosters a culture of innovation and efficiency. Regular training sessions and feedback loops help organisations refine their approach and adapt to new challenges as they arise. Phased implementation of technology can facilitate a smoother transition. Starting with pilot projects allows companies to test new systems on a smaller scale before a full rollout. This method helps identify potential issues and adjust strategies accordingly, minimising disruptions to ongoing operations. Monitoring the performance of newly implemented technology is essential for continuous improvement. Regular assessment measures the effectiveness of solutions, allowing businesses to make data-driven adjustments as needed. By evaluating technology performance routinely, companies can ensure they maximise the benefits such tools offer.Gateley CEO “pleased” with half year results as revenue and profit rise
The CEO of Gateley, the professional services group, has said he is “pleased” with the acquisitive firm’s half year results.
For the six months ended 31 October 2024, group revenue grew to £86.3m, up from £82m in the same period of the year prior. Meanwhile, group underlying profit before tax rose to £10.6m, up from £10m. The results saw growth in legal services revenue (2.1%) overshadowed by revenue from consultancy services, which grew 13.6%.Rod Waldie, Chief Executive Officer of Gateley, said: “I am pleased with the Group’s performance in H1 25.
“The Group continues to benefit from the resilience created by our strategy of investing in a diverse and complementary range of professional services. We are pleased that our more recent organic investments are beginning to generate positive returns alongside the strong performance from our recently acquired businesses.
“Our balance sheet provides a strong foundation from which to take a long-term view of potential opportunities to further invest in both legal and consultancy services.
“Finally, as always, I would like to thank our clients for their support and our dedicated people for their ongoing hard work, commitment and can-do attitude.”
Derby industrial property sold
On behalf of private clients, FHP Property Consultants have sold Units 4 – 6 Downing Road, West Meadows Industrial Estate, Derby.
The property is situated on Downing Road, which is conveniently located close to Pentagon Island at the intersection of the A52 and A61.
The premises originally comprised three industrial/warehouse units which have all recently been combined and linked together providing 28,675ft2. The accommodation provides clear span space and has recently refurbished offices.
The unit has been sold to a local owner/occupier who required the space due to expansion.
Darran Severn of FHP Property Consultants said: “I am pleased this transaction has completed in what has been a great result for both our client and the purchaser. The unit itself provides good quality warehouse accommodation which is perfect for storage and distribution.
“There remains good demand for freehold warehouse units in Derby and further afield due to shortage in supply. As a result, I am currently speaking with several parties that missed out on this opportunity and would be delighted to hear about any available units.”
2025 Business Predictions: Alex Bennett, Managing Director, MEC Consulting Group
It’s that time of year, when Business Link Magazine invites the region’s business leaders to offer up their predictions for the year ahead.
It has become something of a tradition, given that we’ve been doing this now for over 30 years.
Here we speak to Alex Bennett, Managing Director at MEC Consulting Group.
We are of the opinion 2025 will be a year of opportunity. Having negotiated a turbulent five years with Covid, the cost-of-living crisis and political instability, we now have some certainty, and the property and construction industry can collectively start to drive the economy forward.
We are expecting a big push on residential development to meet the government’s 1.5m homes target, and have already felt an increase in activity in recent months. Now with the release of the new NPPF confirming increased housing targets, unlocking grey belt land and accelerating affordable housing delivery, residential development should progress at a faster pace and on more of an open-door policy than we’ve experienced in recent years.
This activity will hopefully drive more business growth, give confidence for additional investment in people and training, and enable us to escape ‘survival mode’ that has been de rigueur for the past five years.
But of course it is wise to approach these opportunities with a degree of trepidation.
How will the industry, its people and systems cope? Especially with the small matter of geopolitical issues that cause economic uncertainty.
The private and public sector is significantly under-resourced and heavily reliant on fundamentally broken systems. Plugging the skills shortage is a huge challenge with new funding, training and policies desperately needed to achieve these ambitious targets.
From a technical perspective, the new NPPF has introduced ‘vision led’ transport and has sought to clarify how the sequential test should be applied. Both will require further interpretation, no doubt through Appeal, as we seek to narrow the parameters and this will no doubt present challenges for developers and the industry as we seek to quickly understand how these new requirements can and will be applied.
In summary, if 2025 is going to present opportunity, then we must approach this sustainably and not act in haste that we create a vacuum of ‘what’s next’? We must learn from previous mistakes and not fall into the trap of a boom and bust strategy. This applies both to our business and the industry as a whole. If we can achieve this, then I suggest 2025 has cause for cautious optimism.
Businesses thanked for stepping up to the plate for YMCA Derbyshire
Businesses working in IT, accountancy, PR and much more have been warmly thanked for stepping away from their desks to cook meals for the community at YMCA Derbyshire’s campus in Derby.
YMCA Derbyshire runs a monthly project at its London Road base, working with businesses and partner organisations who undertake to pay for and cook a two-course meal for up to 80 people.
So successful is the project that cooking slots at the YMCA are filled for months in advance with companies keen to give back to the community and provide hot meals for those who need them most.
The company providing the most meals for YMCA Derbyshire in 2024 was Derby IT company L.E.A.D. IT Services.
The company’s last voluntary day in 2024 saw team members leave their laptops and support desks for a morning to cook up beef and veggie chill plus sponge and custard for pudding.
Sophie Jepson, resource and project manager at L.E.A.D. IT Services, said: “We always enjoy cooking meals for YMCA Derbyshire – it’s a nice change from our day jobs which are obviously fairly technical. It is a brilliant charity and we’re happy to lend our support where we can.
“There are still a lot of people struggling with the cost-of-living crisis and if we can help by cooking a meal for a morning, then it’s a pleasure to do so. The Community Meal is a great scheme, and we’re delighted to be involved.”
Another company which joined the project was Derby-based Vibrant Accountancy which provided a meal cooked up by learners from special educational needs organisation Transition 2.
Vibrant provided the ingredients for the meal prepared by Kristina, Seth and Maddie from Transition 2, which helps prepare Derby people with special educational needs and autism for employment.
Bev Wakefield, founder and owner of Vibrant Accountancy, said: “It was an amazing day. Vibrant’s vision is all about making an impact on our clients and our community, so we were very happy to come with the learners from Transition 2 to deliver the meal.
“It got the Vibrant team involved in the charity, but it was also about giving back and supporting the community.
“It was brilliant to see how much confidence Transition 2 had given Maddie, Seth and Kristina. This is a great organisation creating opportunities for people who perhaps didn’t think they would be available to them.
“The Vibrant team were sous-chefs on the day, the team from Transition 2 did all the cooking – we were just on hand with some chopping and peeling!”
Vibrant’s accountants and the Transition 2 team put together a two-course lunch featuring pasta and garlic bread, with lemon drizzle cake for pudding. Bev added that Vibrant Accountancy was also exploring ways of providing Transition 2 learners with further opportunities.
Simon Hancox, deputy head of service at Transition 2, said the YMCA meal was part of learners’ “bespoke pathway into employment.”
He said: “Transition 2 is committed to improving vocational outcomes for young people with SEND in Derby as part of Derby City Council’s plan for growth and building a resilient city that delivers strategies to promote inclusion in learning and employment.
“This event, and the build up to it, has helped learners to improve their functional skills, self-management, teamwork, personal and food hygiene, customer service, health and safety, stamina and work readiness, and to build aspirations for future work possibilities.”
YMCA Derbyshire runs its community meals on the last Friday of every month, in partnership with Head High mental health charity, run by Amanda Solloway.
Debs Powell at YMCA Derbyshire said: “The support we have had has been amazing. It’s so heart-warming that companies and partner organisations are willing to both pay for and send volunteers to cook a meal for people in our community.
“The meals are always so well received and it’s a great opportunity for businesses to volunteer and provide some help where it is really needed.”
Anyone who would like to take part in YMCA Derbyshire’s Community Meals can contact, debs.powell@ymcaderbyshire.org.uk
Construction supplier relocates to Nottingham industrial and logistics scheme, Power Park
A supplier of fixings and support systems to the construction sector, MIDFIX (Midland Fixings Limited) are relocating from Beeston to Oxenwood’s Power Park, Nottingham industrial and logistics scheme.
The new 101,837 sq ft warehouse and administrative headquarters is one of the six-unit development, totalling just over 426,000 sq ft of warehouse space. The new warehouse will see the complete relocation and expansion of the business from their current facilities on Lilac Grove in Beeston which is located less than a mile away.
Accent Interiors will be undertaking a substantial fit-out for MIDFIX which includes extending the office accommodation to provide an additional 7,000 sq ft.
MIDFIX chose Power Park for its new HQ and central warehouse due to location and being able to create efficiencies through bringing three buildings under one roof. The move will create a state-of-the-art logistics centre and modern office facilities with space to facilitate future growth plans.
Stewart Little, CEO of Oxenwood, said: “Power Park Nottingham is proving to be an important scheme for the area, it has delivered much needed new industrial warehouse facilities into the market, and we are very pleased to welcome MIDFIX here.
“They are a successful local business who had been looking for the right building for some time and now join our other new tenants Kast Concrete Basins and Skillnet at Power Park.”
The joint letting agents for the scheme are M1 Agency, Savills and CPP.
The agents commented: “This letting is one of the largest warehouse deals in Nottingham for many years, it highlights the strong demand for high-quality, well-connected warehousing space but also shows the sensitivity to occupiers around maintaining and growing their workforce, being close to the city centre population has been key to this.
“We have good levels of interest in the remaining units and hope to announce further lettings soon.”
Craig Straw of Innes England, who acted on behalf MIDFIX, said: “We are delighted to have secured this modern purpose built facility on behalf of MIDFIX in such close proximity to their existing base enabling a seamless transition and minimal disruption to the workforce.”
Inflation slows
UK inflation slowed in December, according to new figures from the Office for National Statistics (ONS).
Measured by the Consumer Prices Index (CPI), inflation came in at 2.5% in the 12 months to December, down from 2.6% in November, and lower than expectations.
Significant downward contributions to the change came from restaurants and hotels, alcohol and tobacco, and clothing.
Core inflation, meanwhile, which takes out volatile factors like energy, food, alcohol and tobacco to give a clear picture of underlying trends, stood at 3.2% in the 12 months to December, decreasing from 3.5% in November.
Martin Sartorius, Principal Economist, CBI, said: “Inflation remained moderately above the Bank of England’s 2% target in December, reflecting the impact of ongoing price pressures such as strong wage growth. Looking ahead, we expect inflation will stay elevated this year, partly due to Autumn Budget measures contributing to higher prices.
“Persistent, above-target inflation supports our expectation that the Monetary Policy Committee will loosen policy at a gradual, quarterly pace throughout 2025. The next rate cut is still likely to come in February, which will bring some respite for businesses and households as they continue to face high borrowing costs.”
Roads Minister visits Derbyshire factory to learn of pothole repair technology
Future of Roads Minister Lilian Greenwood has visited Derbyshire – home of the worst potholes in the country, according to the RAC – to see cutting-edge technology helping councils tackle potholes.
She visited the JCB power systems plant at Foston the Minister spoke to engineers to learn about the latest innovations being used to tackle the pothole plague. She will operate JCB’s ‘pothole pro’, a machine that can fix a pothole in eight minutes, with a cost of around £30. The ‘pothole pro’ is currently used by 20 local authorities.
A £1.6bn investment in pothole repair nationally includes an additional £20 million for the East Midlands County Combined Authority, that will enable councils to fix up to 7 million more potholes.
She said: “Potholes are a clear sign of decline in our infrastructure and for too long roads like those in Derbyshire have been left in a state that endangers and costs road users.
“It’s time for change and we are investing £1.6 billion to fix up to 7 million more potholes across England this year, including over £75 million for the East Midlands Combined Authority.
“JCB’s ‘pothole pro’ is one of the many great examples of using new technology to repair potholes faster and demonstrates how companies are harnessing new technology to repair potholes faster.”
Ben Rawding, JCB’s general manager, municipalities, said: “Last month’s announcement by the Department of Transport of £1.6 billion of funding for road repairs in England during 2025 is very welcome. Our appeal to the Minister will be for this funding to be spent wisely to ensure permanent long-term repairs become the priority for local authorities making best use of value-adding, productive technology such as the JCB pothole pro.”
