Mountpark has started construction on a 1.46 million sq ft logistics park, Mountpark Hinckley, in the heart of the UK’s Golden Triangle.
It follows Mountpark securing approval of a complex hybrid planning application by Rugby Borough Council, Hinckley & Bosworth Borough Council and Nuneaton & Bedworth Borough Council. Detailed consent has been granted for the development of a 491,926 sq ft unit, which has been pre-let to a major supermarket retailer.
Mountpark has appointed Winvic Construction to deliver the infrastructure and enabling works, as well as the vertical build of Unit 1, which is scheduled for practical completion in spring 2026.
Mountpark has also submitted Reserved Matters Applications for the two remaining plots, which will offer 514,100 sq ft and 258,000 sq ft of logistics space.
“This marks an exciting step forward with construction now underway on site at Mountpark Hinckley, following over five years of dedicated work by our planning team to bring the development to fruition,” said Tom Kilmister, senior development director at Mountpark.
“This project reflects our commitment to unlocking new sites, our continued investment in the East Midlands’ logistics infrastructure and our ability to deliver high-quality space that supports market demand for our customers.
“The pre-letting of Unit 1 is a testament to our customer-focused approach, working closely with occupiers to deliver tailored solutions that align with their operational needs and long-term growth ambitions.”
West Northamptonshire Council has approved the conversion of a commercial property in Northampton into shared residential accommodation.
Kingswood House, located in Cliftonville, will be transformed from its former use as offices into a house in multiple occupations (HMO) that accommodates up to 23 residents. The building previously housed an insurance firm, a fertility clinic, and a laser eye surgery business.
The development will reconfigure the property into five shared flats. These will include a four-bedroom unit on the lower ground floor, two three-bedroom units on the ground floor, an eight-bedroom unit on the first floor, and a five-bedroom unit on the second floor. All bedrooms will be en suite, and each flat will have shared kitchen and living areas. Two communal laundry rooms will be available to all residents.
The conversion is mainly internal, with only minor alterations planned for the building’s exterior. The property will retain 15 on-site parking spaces. The first floor has already been stripped of its internal services in preparation for redevelopment.
The council considers HMOs a critical part of the local housing strategy, particularly for students, young professionals, and others requiring short- to medium-term accommodation. This project is expected to support demand in the area’s pressured rental market.
Watches of Switzerland Group posted full-year revenues of £1.65bn, up 8% year-on-year, as the business rebounded in the UK and US markets. The company, which is headquartered in the East Midlands, reported 2% revenue growth across the UK and Europe, while sales in the US rose sharply by 16% in the 12 months ending 27 April 2025.
The group attributed the stronger second-half performance to stabilised trading following a period of consumer hesitation linked to the initial announcement of US tariffs. While April trading returned to typical levels, the unresolved US tariff situation continues to add uncertainty to the outlook.
The retailer expanded its showroom portfolio during the year, opening a new flagship Rolex boutique on Old Bond Street in London. Several high-profile Rolex developments were also delivered in the US, including new and upgraded locations in Texas, Florida, and Georgia.
The business remains focused on capitalising on sustained demand for luxury timepieces, despite broader macroeconomic pressures and geopolitical risks affecting future planning, particularly in the US. It maintains a strong pipeline of showroom openings and anticipates continued interest in key high-demand brands.
Global HSE Group have joined the sponsor line up for the East Midlands Bricks Awards 2025, backing the ‘Commercial Development of the Year’ category.
Supporting the event for a second year, Global HSE Group are industry leaders in comprehensive fire safety, specialising in passive fire protection and technical fire consultancy, as well as delivering sustainability and MEP (building services), and their own in-house training academy.
Operating nationally across the UK and Ireland, clients include some of the UK’s leading student accommodation providers, hotels, universities, consultants, architects, and developers. They also support several of the UK’s largest housing associations, councils, and public sector organisations.
Global HSE Group place people and compliance at the heart of everything they do and pride themselves on their highly knowledgeable and experienced, multi-disciplinary team who work seamlessly to deliver safer buildings right across the UK.
Speaking with Business Link, Andrew Cooper, Managing Director at Global HSE Group, said: “We’re really proud to be returning as a sponsor of the East Midlands Bricks Awards 2025, once again sponsoring the ‘Commercial Development of the Year’ category. Last year’s event was a brilliant celebration of the region’s property and construction talent, and it was fantastic to see so many inspiring projects and passionate people under one roof.
“Sponsoring this category for the second-year running was an easy decision for us. At Global, we’re committed to supporting excellence in property and construction, and the East Midlands Bricks Awards is a perfect platform to do that. We’re especially excited to see the nominations this year, there’s no doubt the standard will be incredibly high again.
“We’d encourage anyone who has delivered an exceptional project to complete a nomination form. It’s a great opportunity to shine a spotlight on the teams, collaborations and achievements within the region, and we’re looking forward to another memorable evening of celebrating success and connecting with peers across the industry.”
Chris Sharman of Global HSE Group (right) hands over the Commercial Development of the Year award to Tim Hubner and Nick Pettit of G F Tomlinson at the East Midlands Bricks Awards 2024
The East Midlands Bricks Awards, which will take place on Thursday 2nd October at Nottingham’s famous Trent Bridge Cricket Ground, celebrates the successes of property and construction companies in Derbyshire, Nottinghamshire, Leicestershire, Lincolnshire, and Northamptonshire.
Recognising those behind the changing landscape of the East Midlands, the occasion highlights development projects, businesses, and people in commercial and public building across the region – from office, industrial and residential schemes, through to community projects such as leisure schemes and schools. It also toasts the work of architects, agencies, and those behind large schemes.
Welcoming almost 150 professionals, nominating a company or project for the awards is a great way to showcase your successes, recognise your team’s efforts, bolster morale, and reach our audience of over 60,000 business readers, while also offering a chance to connect with respected professionals. It’s completely free to enter and making the top three finalists in your category also wins you free tickets to the event.
To make a nomination for the East Midlands Bricks Awards 2025, please click here.
Supporting imagery, video, documents, or links to these, can be sent to bricks@blmgroup.co.uk. Video nomination pitches are also welcome as an alternative or companion to written entries.
Categories include:
All finalists will have the chance to take home the Overall Winner award, which this year comes with a grand prize of a year of marketing/publicity worth £20,000, with the opportunity to split or gift the marketing to a charity of your choice.
Nominations will close on Friday 15th August.
New for this year, all entrants will also have the opportunity to be featured on our dedicated nominee showcase on the East Midlands Business Link website, providing space for marketing your achievements. Upon submitting a nomination, we will get in touch for any information, imagery, and video nominees would like to be featured on their showcase page.
The East Midlands Bricks Awards 2025
What: The East Midlands Bricks Awards 2025
When: Thursday 2nd October (4.30pm – 7.30pm)
Where: Derek Randall Suite,Trent Bridge Cricket Ground, Nottingham
Keynote speaker: Councillor Nadine Peatfield – Leader of Derby City Council, Cabinet Member for City Centre, Regeneration, Strategy and Policy, and Deputy Mayor of the East Midlands
Tickets: Available hereDress code: Standard business attire
Thanks to our sponsors:
To be held at:
With a limited number of sponsorship opportunities remaining, please contact Angie Cooper at a.cooper@blmgroup.co.uk to learn more if you are interested in becoming an East Midlands Bricks Awards 2025 sponsor.
Staffline, the Nottingham-based recruitment group, has secured a significant strategic partnership with one of the UK’s leading food and drink supply chain management and logistics providers covering the whole of the UK and Ireland.
This new partnership comprises an initial two-year agreement with a one-year extension option to outsource to Staffline 100% of the agency labour services that are currently supplied by the wholly owned in-house labour supplier. This partnership will see the Group deliver flexible, temporary employment solutions in addition to managing second tier suppliers across the client’s chilled and ambient business operations.
The contract is anticipated to strengthen Staffline’s market position in the logistics sector. The mobilisation of 3,000 temporary workers across driving, warehousing and security activities will begin no sooner than the end of Q2 2025 and is expected to continue during Q3 2025.
Albert Ellis, chief executive officer of Staffline, said: “We are delighted to have secured such an important, value enhancing strategic partnership.
“This new contract reinforces Staffline’s strong reputation as a trusted partner for supplying volume labour to the food and drinks, logistics and FMCG sectors and materially enhances the Board’s expectations of Group performance over the life of the contract.
“Over the coming months the Staffline team will be working with the leadership to manage a smooth transition, creating efficiencies, synergies and opportunities for all parties.”
Cambridge & Counties Bank reported a 15% year-on-year rise in gross new lending for 2024, reaching £376 million. The growth was driven by continued property and asset finance strength, despite a cooling interest rate environment.
The bank’s pre-tax profits stood at £35.8 million for the year. Property finance drawdowns totalled over £285 million, marking a third consecutive year of growth in that core segment. Asset finance lending rose sharply, up 39% to £89 million.
Finance for classic, vintage, and sports cars increased notably, climbing 41% to £72 million. Customer loan balances rose 11% to £1.23 billion, while customer deposits grew 10% to £1.27 billion.
The lender invested heavily in operational infrastructure during the year, including new offices in Manchester and Reading to support asset finance. Headcount increased by 8%, ending the year with 243 employees.
2024 also saw the expansion of its lending portfolio with new offerings such as development finance and more fixed-rate products. The bank continues to focus on SMEs and underserved segments of the UK market, aiming to support business investment and property growth.
Mansfield District Council has been awarded £1.58 million from the UK Shared Prosperity Fund, with funding allocated via the East Midlands Counties Combined Authority. The investment will support business development, workforce upskilling, community grants, and local events.
This round of funding is part of the wider £2.6 billion UK Shared Prosperity Fund, which aims to reduce regional disparities and boost economic performance across the country. The financial package was reviewed during a council meeting in early May.
The Access Group, a Loughborough-based provider of business management software, has acquired Fonn, extending its offering in ERP software globally.
Founded in 2016, Fonn is a project management platform that streamlines documentation, task tracking, and communication for teams in the construction, fit-out, and facility management industries. Fonn has grown to a base of 50,000 users from within the construction industry across the UK, USA and Norway.
Claire Carter, managing director of Access ERP, said: “Fonn is a great fit for our business. The proven success and innovation from the Fonn team excite us and show huge potential for the future of this world-class product, in conjunction with the other solutions we provide today. We are delighted to welcome Fonn into our Access ERP eco-system.”
Jan Tore Grindheim, Fonn CEO, said: “Joining The Access Group marks a significant milestone for Fonn. We have been impressed by the Access Group’s focus on customers and commitment to innovation. We are excited to join the team where we can accelerate our ambitions, further enhance our customer experience, and become part of a bigger mission.”
Greencore’s £1.2 billion acquisition of Bakkavor has taken a step forward with the boards of both companies agreeing the terms of a recommended acquisition.
The transaction, which Bakkavor is unanimously recommending to shareholders, would create a leading UK convenience food business with a combined revenue of £4 billion and approximately 30,500 employees.
The businesses believe that their combination will drive significant benefits for customers and colleagues and will make a significant continuing contribution to the UK economy.
Greencore shareholders are expected to own approximately 56 per cent of the combined group, while Bakkavor shareholders will own approximately 44 per cent.
Bakkavor, a major supplier of ready meals and desserts to UK supermarkets such as Tesco and Sainsbury’s, earned £2.29 billion in revenue last year, more than 80% in the UK. Greencore, based in Dublin with significant operations in Worksop, brought in £1.81 billion over the same period through its ready meals and food-to-go products.
Leslie Van de Walle, the chair of Greencore, said: “We have long admired Bakkavor and we are pleased to announce a transaction that will create a true UK leader in convenience food.
“We intend to bring together our strong and complementary companies to deliver high-quality, innovative food to UK customers and consumers. We are excited about the potential that a combination presents and the value it will deliver for both Greencore and Bakkavor shareholders.”
Simon Burke, chair of Bakkavor, said: “We are very happy with the progress made by Bakkavor delivering its strategy and significantly improved returns, both in the UK and abroad. We have clear plans for continued growth and are confident in the prospects for Bakkavor over the coming years.
“However, there has always been a clear strategic, commercial and financial rationale for a combination with Greencore. Having considered a combination previously, we believe that this Transaction now proposes terms that we consider are very attractive to Bakkavor’s shareholders.
“The Transaction offers shareholders a significant premium, with an attractive combination of cash on completion and the ability to participate in the future value creation anticipated from bringing the two businesses together. For this reason our board is unanimously recommending it to shareholders.”
Dalton Philips, chief executive officer of Greencore, said: “We are bringing together two experienced teams and our complementary portfolios will drive benefits for customers and consumers across the UK.
“The combined group will be able to invest more in innovation and product development ensuring we can provide the consumer with greater food choices at more points in the day, bringing together Greencore’s “food for now” expertise with Bakkavor’s “food for later” portfolio.
“We look forward to welcoming Bakkavor’s employees and creating an exciting, combined business for all stakeholders. Bakkavor is the ideal partner for Greencore and we look forward to delivering on the significant growth potential of the enlarged business.”
PepsiCo has installed three electric ovens at its site in Leicester, following the recent completion of a £58 million investment in the factory. It means snacks including Wotsits, Monster Munch, Frazzles, Chipsticks and Cheetos, are now cooked using ovens powered by 100% renewable electricity.
As part of the upgrade, PepsiCo has installed two new electric ovens and converted its previously gas-powered oven to now run on electric. Switching to these new electric ovens will help reduce the Leicester site’s greenhouse gas emissions by 1,500 tonnes per year.
The oven upgrades are the latest in a series of sustainability initiatives at PepsiCo’s UK sites as the company continues work to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Last year, PepsiCo replaced elements of the existing manufacturing line for Doritos in Coventry with new equipment, reducing greenhouse gas emissions by over 700 tonnes a year and invested in new, more efficient fryers at Brigg, the home of Pipers Crisps.
Richard Clarke, manufacturing director at PepsiCo UK and Ireland, said: “It’s fantastic to see the impact of our investment in each and every batch of delicious snacks made using our new electric ovens.
“With a brand-new production line, better facilities for our teams, and now these more sustainable ovens, we’ve been able to transform our home in Leicester and secure its future growth. We’re incredibly proud of all the work that goes into making our iconic snacks right in the heart of the UK, and even more so now we’re doing it in a more sustainable way.”
In addition to introducing new, lower-emission ovens, PepsiCo’s £58 million investment in the Leicester site has also seen the company install a new manufacturing line and upgrade facilities for its 1,192-strong team.
Rushton Hickman has let Suite 11a Faraday Court, in Burton, to Trial Systems Ltd, becoming the commercial property agents’ own new neighbour.
The open plan office suite is situated within a high specification office development complex in Centrum 100, two miles from Burton upon Trent town centre.
The tenant, Trial Systems Ltd are a software development, support and training company who have been operating for more than 20 years.
Taylor Millington, senior surveyor at Rushton Hickman, said: “Faraday Court is always a popular location, and it’s a pleasure to be able to place a local business into a prime position within Burton.”
The Clowes family, with the support of Clowes Developments, hosted a special fundraising event at Pride Park Stadium on Thursday 8th May 2025, raising £62,326.16 for Macmillan Cancer Support.
Macmillan has been named Clowes Developments’ chosen charity for the year, in memory of company founder Charles Clowes, who passed away ten years ago, and their colleague Paul Turner, who died earlier this year. The company chose Macmillan because of its vital work supporting people affected by cancer across the UK.
The event, called The Charles Clowes Decade Dinner, was organised by Sarah Berry (née Clowes) to honour Charles’ legacy and launched a year-long fundraising campaign for Clowes Developments. It brought together friends, family and property industry colleagues to celebrate his life and support a good cause.
Guests enjoyed a champagne reception sponsored by O’Brien Contractors Ltd, live music from a local pianist Wil Pearson and a performance by The Function Band. Speeches were given by Clowes Development’s Managing Director Thomas Clowes, Sarah Berry and Jade Lambert from Macmillan, who spoke about the charity’s work.
Macmillan currently supports nearly 3.5 million people in the UK living with cancer, a number expected to reach 4 million by 2030. The charity helps with not just medical needs but also financial and emotional support.
Sarah Berry said: “Organising a charity dinner in honour of my dad is something I’ve wanted to do for a long time, and I’m incredibly proud to have finally made it happen.
“Macmillan gave our family invaluable support during an incredibly difficult period, and this event was my way of giving something back while helping others facing similar challenges.
“The evening was a beautiful celebration of community, compassion, and remembrance, I’m so grateful to everyone who attended, donated, or supported in any way. Everyone’s generosity made the night truly special and helped make a real difference.”
Through their partnership with Macmillan Cancer Support, Clowes Developments aims to raise vital funds and awareness to support the charity’s essential services helping to ensure that people living with cancer across the UK receive the care, guidance and resources they need at every stage of their journey.
Jade Lambert, regional relationship fundraising manager at Macmillan Cancer Support, added: “The Charles Clowes Decade Dinner was a truly inspiring evening. I am incredibly moved by the generosity and compassion shown by everyone who attended.
“To raise over £62,000 in one night is simply phenomenal, and we cannot thank the Clowes family and Clowes Developments enough for choosing to support Macmillan in such a meaningful way.
“This donation will make a real difference to the lives of thousands of people living with cancer – helping us provide vital practical, financial, and emotional support to those who need it most. Events like this remind us of the power of community and kindness, and we are so grateful to be part of this journey in honour of Charles and Paul’s legacies.”
The Nottingham-based provider of investigation and intelligence management software, Altia, has appointed a director of sales and partnerships for Europe, the Middle East and Africa (EMEA) to further expand its global footprint.
Natalie Farr will lead commercial growth across EMEA, improving sales functions and processes. She will collaborate closely with global and product-specific teams to embed best practices that align with customer needs.
Natalie brings a wealth of experience in public safety, national security, and enterprise transformation.
She began her career working with UK police forces before moving into senior roles at Microsoft, where she helped transform law enforcement and defence organisations across the UK as part of the Public Safety and National Security division.
She also held a leadership role at Google, further broadening her expertise at the intersection of technology, public service, and innovation.
Rob Sinclair, CEO of Altia, said: “At Altia, we pride ourselves on delivering the best and most innovative tools to support our customers, and that starts with having the right people. We are incredibly excited to welcome Natalie to the team.
“Her exceptional experience, along with her ability to lead high-performing teams and build strategic partnerships, will be invaluable as we scale our presence internationally and continue to evolve our sales approach to meet the needs of our customers.”
Natalie will work alongside the senior team to ensure that Altia’s solutions and services are closely aligned to both evolving market demands and customer outcomes.
Natalie Farr said: “I’ve always found purpose in helping organisations that protect the public, and that’s why I’m so excited to join Altia.”
“I get a real buzz from creating tangible impact, and working in policing and justice is where I know I can make a meaningful difference. This role brings together everything I care about: innovative technology, frontline impact, and the opportunity to lead a global team.”
A strong advocate for diversity in tech, Natalie regularly volunteers in schools to promote STEM careers and inspire young women to pursue roles in technology and leadership.
The UK Government’s latest migration reforms are drawing criticism from the business community. Industry groups warn that they could intensify existing labour and skills shortages unless backed by a robust domestic workforce strategy.
The new rules, outlined in a white paper, include tighter criteria for skilled worker visas, a higher English language requirement, an increase in the qualifying period for settlement to 10 years, and a cap on post-study work visas for graduates to just 18 months. The care worker visa route will also be closed entirely.
These changes are expected to significantly restrict the flow of overseas workers into key sectors such as health and construction, industries already facing serious recruitment gaps.
According to data from the East Midlands Chamber, nearly 70% of regional firms reported difficulties filling both skilled and non-skilled roles in recent quarters. Businesses are calling for investment in training infrastructure, including reforms to the apprenticeship levy, to provide more flexibility and align with labour market needs.
A major housing development in Melton Mowbray is moving forward as Bloor Homes submits plans for 900 new homes in the town’s south, marking a significant phase of the broader Melton South Sustainable Neighbourhood initiative. The site off Kirby Lane forms part of a larger scheme for up to 2,000 homes designated in Melton Borough Council’s local plan.
The Bloor proposal outlines a seven-stage phased delivery of the 900 units, including around 130 affordable homes. The development would incorporate extensive green infrastructure, such as a semi-natural woodland, a new park, green corridors, and hedgerow walks.
This application follows a separate approval granted in December for 1,200 homes in the northern part of the town. That northern scheme includes nearly £30 million in developer contributions for community services and infrastructure.
The Melton South plan, approved in 2021, includes residential construction and land allocated for new schools and employment use. Davidsons Homes has also been contracted to build additional housing across the wider southern site.
The council anticipates that approximately 1,700 homes within the Melton South scheme will be completed by 2036. A public consultation on Bloor’s 900-home application remains open until 2 June.
Journeo has secured a £10 million framework agreement with First Bus UK to supply technology solutions to improve fleet efficiency and safety.
The three-year contract, running until March 2028 with an option to extend by two years, will see Journeo provide its Software as a Service (SaaS) platform and related systems to enhance vehicle operations. Key components of the deal include access to the Journeo Portal for secure video and data processing, upgrades to CCTV infrastructure, digital wing mirror installation on new vehicles, and remote asset monitoring services.
This agreement builds on a partnership between the two companies dating back to 2010 and comes as First Bus expands its fleet through the acquisition of RATP London, bringing its vehicle count to over 5,750, more than 10% of which are electric.
The collaboration supports First Bus’s transition to a fully zero-emission fleet by 2035 while enhancing operational oversight and service quality across its network.
Joint venture owners Wykeland Group and Lincolnshire Co-op have rejuvenated Lincoln’s Waterside centre, delivering a £3m programme of investment and securing the long-term commitment of three major retail brands.
The investments by Yorkshire-based property development business Wykeland and Lincolnshire Co-op have been delivered in under two years since they acquired Waterside and have now resulted in a trio of high street stores renewing their leases.
Fashion and homeware retailer H&M has extended its lease at Waterside and committed to a major £2m revamp of the centre’s anchor store.
Next and The Body Shop have also each signed new leases, giving a major vote of confidence to Waterside and ensuring the three popular stores remain in Lincoln city centre for years to come.
New operators have also come on board, including luxury lifestyle brand Rituals, which is opening a new store at Waterside next month.
Hull-based Wykeland and member-owned Lincolnshire Co-op acquired Waterside in June 2023. Since then the owners have committed to a significant and ongoing programme of investment that has given Waterside a new lease of life.
This has included the creation of a new coffee shop at the heart of Waterside, operated by local independent operator Seven Districts Coffee.
Waterside’s joint owners are also investing to create a more attractive and welcoming frontage to the centre from Lincoln’s High Street, along the River Witham. This will enable an improved pedestrian flow by the riverside, into the centre and across the river into The Cornhill Quarter.
Two units on High Street have been acquired to form part of the centre and enable the reshaping of the entrance to take place, while Waterside has also undergone a rebrand.
These changes have also attracted more visitors into the centre, with footfall in 2024 up by three per cent compared to 2022, before Wykeland and Lincolnshire Co-op acquired Waterside, bucking the national trend.
Wykeland managing director Dominic Gibbons said: “Since acquiring the Waterside centre in a joint venture with Lincolnshire Co-op, we’ve invested significantly to ensure it remains a key destination for both local people and visitors to Lincoln.
“The new, long-term commitments by H&M, Next and The Body Shop reflect the strength of Waterside and the very positive reaction from tenants to the rejuvenation of the centre.
“Waterside’s footfall is buoyant, trading is strong and there’s a great deal of confidence in the centre’s future.
“The investments we’re continuing to make, with our partners at Lincolnshire Co-op, are enabling Waterside to buck the retail trend and play a key role in Lincoln remaining a highly attractive location.”
Kevin Kendall, head of property at Lincolnshire Co-op, said: “It’s been fantastic to work alongside Wykeland to bring new services into the area, as well as updating pre-existing ones.
“Our joint investment is reflected in the shopping centre’s success – long-term commitments from tenants and increased footfall are both great indicators of this.”
Waterside’s owners and H&M are now jointly investing in a £2m refit of the centre’s anchor unit.
Among other investments, frontages on a number of smaller units at the centre are being revamped and £60,000 has been invested to refurbish the customer toilets.
The UK’s economy has grown more than expected in the first three months of the year, following a rise in activity in March.
According to new figures from the Office for National Statistics (ONS), GDP (gross domestic product), a key measure of economy growth, is estimated to have grown by 0.2% in March, following a 0.5% expansion in February.
It reflects, across key sectors, services output rising by 0.4% in March, construction output growing by 0.5%, and production output falling by 0.7%.
GDP in the first quarter, meanwhile, is estimated to have grown by 0.7%, following an uptick of 0.1% in the previous quarter.
Ben Jones, lead economist, CBI, said: “The rise in activity in March was a pleasant surprise, coming on the back of the strong bounce in February.
“While the latest data adds to signs that a gradual recovery in household spending may be underway, the strength of GDP over Q1 is likely to prove a one-off.
“An up-tick in inflation and a cooling labour market will see real household income growth slow this year, though lower interest rates should encourage consumers to save less and spend more.
“Businesses remain cautious over hiring and investment plans given the steep rise in employment costs following the Autumn Budget. And the uncertain global economic backdrop is hardly conducive for long-term planning.
“Now is a critical time for government to hardwire growth into the economy through the upcoming Spending Review. Measures to accelerate tech adoption alongside a modern Industrial Strategy can support the UK’s investment and growth potential and bolster the UK’s competitive position.”
With nominations now OPENfor Business Link Magazine’s East Midlands Bricks Awards 2025, taking place on Thursday 2nd October, last year’s winners are reflecting on the prestigious event’s impact and encouraging other firms to enter.
Russell Rigby, managing director at Rigby & Co, which took home Most Active Agent at last year’s event, said: “It is a real thrill and boost to be awarded the Most Active Agent of the Year award at the 2024 Bricks! The ceremony, and the award, generated a great deal of PR / media profile, which was very very helpful, and it also served as a great motivational boost to the team at Rigby & Co. I would encourage firms to enter and have a go!”
Russell also thanked Donna Hill and her team at BH PR & Communications for assisting with the business’s nomination. Russell added: “Donna writes our award nominations and has an incredible track record!”
Marking 10 years of the event, this year’s eagerly anticipated awards ceremony will take place on Thursday 2nd October at Nottingham’s famous Trent Bridge Cricket Ground.
The East Midlands Bricks Awards celebrates the successes of property and construction companies in Derbyshire, Nottinghamshire, Leicestershire, Lincolnshire, and Northamptonshire.
Recognising those behind the changing landscape of the East Midlands, the occasion highlights development projects, businesses, and people in commercial and public building across the region – from office, industrial and residential schemes, through to community projects such as leisure schemes and schools. It also toasts the work of architects, agencies, and those behind large schemes.
Welcoming almost 150 professionals, nominating a company or project for the awards is a great way to showcase your successes, recognise your team’s efforts, and reach our audience of over 60,000 business readers, while also offering a chance to connect with respected professionals. And better yet, it’s completely free to enter!
Making the top three finalists in your category also wins you free tickets to the event, where you’ll be in the running for one of our coveted awards.
To make a nomination for the East Midlands Bricks Awards 2025, please click here. Or to go directly to a category’s nomination form click on the category headings below.
Supporting imagery, video, documents, or links to these, can be sent to bricks@blmgroup.co.uk. Video nomination pitches are also welcome as an alternative or companion to written entries.
Categories include:
All finalists will have the chance to take home the Overall Winner award, which this year comes with a grand prize of a year of marketing/publicity worth £20,000, with the opportunity to split or gift the marketing to a charity of your choice.
Nominations will close on Friday 15th August.
New for this year, all entrants will also have the opportunity to be featured on our dedicated nominee showcase on the East Midlands Business Link website, providing space for marketing your achievements. Upon submitting a nomination, we will get in touch for any information, imagery, and video nominees would like to be featured on their showcase page.
The East Midlands Bricks Awards 2025
What: The East Midlands Bricks Awards 2025
When: Thursday 2nd October (4.30pm – 7.30pm)
Where: Derek Randall Suite,Trent Bridge Cricket Ground, Nottingham
Keynote speaker: Councillor Nadine Peatfield – Leader of Derby City Council, Cabinet Member for City Centre, Regeneration, Strategy and Policy, and Deputy Mayor of the East Midlands
Tickets: Available hereDress code: Standard business attire
Thanks to our sponsors:
To be held at:
With a limited number of sponsorship opportunities remaining, please contact Angie Cooper at a.cooper@blmgroup.co.uk to learn more if you are interested in becoming an East Midlands Bricks Awards 2025 sponsor.
Theresa Waddingham, partner at Streets Chartered Accountants, helps navigate changes to national insurance.
Following the changes to the employer national insurance contributions, some concerns have been raised over the optimum amount a director should receive through PAYE on their Limited Company.
For employee national insurance, the allowance is £12,570 per annum before any Class 1 employee national insurance becomes payable.
The lower earnings limit which ensures that you receive a qualifying year for state pension and goes towards receipt of certain state benefits is £6,500 per annum.
This means that earnings taken through PAYE between £6,500 and £12,570 will not incur any employee deductions.
I am sure you are now thinking what about employer national insurance?
From April 2025 the government lowered the level at which employer national insurance is applied to £5,000. Anything processed in excess of that becomes payable at 15%. Why pay it you may ask? You may not have to.
The government also removed some of the restrictions on claiming employment allowance. If you have a payroll with two or more directors/employees earning above £5,000, providing it is a qualifying entity, the £10,500 per annum allowance can be claimed.
This allowance offsets the employer national insurance that subsequently becomes due on the amount over £5,000. It therefore makes sense to process the maximum £12,570 per annum to obtain the qualifying year and the access to certain state benefits.
A word of caution; one director on your payroll with no other employees means that you cannot claim employment allowance. In order to obtain your qualifying year for state pension you will need to pay employer national insurance. Please see the link below on how to make the payment:
https://www.gov.uk/pay-paye-tax
You may note that there is no mention of tax. Do be aware of your tax code as that may influence your decision, as could corporation tax. For these areas please do consult one of our tax specialists for the optimum solution for your personal circumstances. Please feel free to get in touch by emailing info@streets.uk or calling your local office.
See this column in the May issue of East Midlands Business Link Magazine here.
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Operating nationally across the UK and Ireland, clients include some of the UK’s leading student accommodation providers, hotels, universities, consultants, architects, and developers. They also support several of the UK’s largest housing associations, councils, and public sector organisations.
Global HSE Group place people and compliance at the heart of everything they do and pride themselves on their highly knowledgeable and experienced, multi-disciplinary team who work seamlessly to deliver safer buildings right across the UK.
Speaking with Business Link, Andrew Cooper, Managing Director at Global HSE Group, said: “We’re really proud to be returning as a sponsor of the East Midlands Bricks Awards 2025, once again sponsoring the ‘Commercial Development of the Year’ category. Last year’s event was a brilliant celebration of the region’s property and construction talent, and it was fantastic to see so many inspiring projects and passionate people under one roof.
“Sponsoring this category for the second-year running was an easy decision for us. At Global, we’re committed to supporting excellence in property and construction, and the East Midlands Bricks Awards is a perfect platform to do that. We’re especially excited to see the nominations this year, there’s no doubt the standard will be incredibly high again.
“We’d encourage anyone who has delivered an exceptional project to complete a nomination form. It’s a great opportunity to shine a spotlight on the teams, collaborations and achievements within the region, and we’re looking forward to another memorable evening of celebrating success and connecting with peers across the industry.”
With a limited number of sponsorship opportunities remaining, please contact Angie Cooper at a.cooper@blmgroup.co.uk to learn more if you are interested in becoming an East Midlands Bricks Awards 2025 sponsor. 
