Corby company picks up hat-trick of awards in one month
A Corby-based holding company of businesses involved in the supply, distribution and fabrication of wood veneer and decorative laminate panels for the built environment sector, has netted a hat-trick of awards in a month.
See Limited is celebrating after beating off stiff competition to pick up the Sustainability Award at the Northamptonshire Business Excellence Awards (NBEAs) on Thursday, November 7.
The award recognises projects, innovations or actions that have improved the sustainability of a business and the environment and encouraged customers or clients to do the same to ensure a more sustainable future.
Independent and accredited judges, including head judge Nick Hewer, star of The Apprentice, recognised See Limited’s efforts to significantly reduce the carbon footprint of all companies in its group, including operating businesses – Performance Panels and Bousfields – and across the construction industry as a whole.
These efforts included establishing four key initiatives to fight climate change: producing an Annual Carbon Footprint Report to record the CO₂ impact of all businesses in the group; forming an internal Carbon Reduction Team to implement initiatives to reduce CO₂ emissions year-on-year; partnering with More Trees to plant trees all over the world; and signing up to the Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi) to adopt best practice to significantly reduce carbon footprint.
The company also champions a sustainability driven product portfolio and supports customers to make their construction projects more environmentally friendly by providing environmental product data on materials including BioCarbon Laminates and SanFoot® Real Wood Veneer.
When presenting the award, host Alex Horne said: “The winners of this award have proven that they really benefit the environment as well as encouraging others to follow suit. They have shown a real commitment and dedication to ensuring a sustainable future.”
This latest win follows the company winning the Green Award at the NNBN Awards and national award success, as the Gold Winner in the Sustainability Award category at the National Building & Construction Awards – both in October. See Limited was also a finalist at the Building Innovation Awards in the Best Carbon Reduction Innovation or Practice category in Manchester on Thursday, October 17.
Robert Thompson, CEO of See Limited, said: “Sustainability is a daily topic of conversation for us, so it is great to start receiving awards and recognition for the moves we have made to reduce our carbon emissions across all of our businesses.
“Not only do we want to reduce our own carbon footprint, we also want to make it easier for contractors to make more sustainable choices with their buildings and encourage those within our supply chain to start adopting more sustainable practices.
“We’re proud to lead by example in our industry and if we all make small changes, it can have a big impact on people and the planet.”
Lincolnshire-headquartered Jointline makes £300,000 investment in hydroblasting
Lincolnshire-headquartered specialist civil engineering firm Jointline has fuelled its continued expansion with a £300,000 investment in hydroblasting technology. Established in 1987, the privately-owned company – which works across highways, airport runways and internal lining projects – is on track to achieve a record annual turnover approaching £18m.
The hydroblasting equipment delivers rapid line and rubber removal and retexturing across concrete, asphalt and composite surfaces. The new investment has enabled the company to add a service that had been wholly outsourced to its raft of in-house capabilities.
Two members of staff have been recruited to operate Jointline’s new hydroblaster unit, which benefits from a bespoke fit-out, eight-hour operation and low noise emission. Two high-performance jet driers have also been purchased to enable quick drying across external surfaces.
Gary Massey, Managing Director of Jointline, said: “The demand for hydroblasting from airfields, National Highways, tier one contractors, and local authorities led to our strategic decision to invest in bespoke machinery and boost our in-house capabilities. While we will continue to work with preferred supply partners on some major projects, by self-delivering this service we can be more flexible and reactive to client needs.
“We are proud that one of the new members of staff we have taken on to operate the hydroblaster is ex-army and applied for the role because he saw that we were members of the Armed Forces Covenant.
“It is encouraging to see the new wave of infrastructure projects being tendered across the UK and overseas in recent months, which will help to our expansion plans. We are also eager to see the detail of the government’s 10-year infrastructure strategy, which is anticipated to be published in late spring. The early success of this investment may even lead to us commissioning additional hydroblasting units next year.”
Jointline’s recent hydroblasting projects include the removal of thermoplastic lining at Immingham Docks for Dyer & Butler, to make way for the installation of new walkways. The firm has also removed epoxy road markings and parking areas airside at Heathrow Airport for Ferrovial to allow for temporary roadway linings to be applied.
In Norfolk, Jointline was commissioned by Tarmac to remove old road markings and install a new cycle path and thermoplastic road marking configuration.
Jointline has four main divisions; airfields; highways; off-highways and civils; and maintenance. Earlier this year, it deployed £1m of company funds in the investment of specialist grooving plant and machinery and took the headcount of skilled professionals to a record high of 120 employees.
The Witham St Hughs-headquartered firm has recently completed extensive rehabilitation works and grooving on the Southern Runway at Heathrow Airport, along with the significant Aircraft Servicing Platform (ASP) replacement works at a military airbase in Lincolnshire.
The team has also successfully completed a comprehensive National Highways project to upgrade M1 North and Southbound carriageways from Junctions 39 to 42.
The firm has undertaken renovation and improvement works at the majority of major civilian airports in the UK, as well as runways across continental Europe, Africa, Asia, and South America.
Caitlin Southall joins WBR Group as Head of SSAS Proposition
Leicester-headquartered WBR Group, the independent provider of SSAS services and tax experts, has appointed Caitlin Southall as the Head of SSAS Proposition, a newly created role.
Caitlin has over 12 years of self invested pensions experience and joins WBR Group from Nucleus Financial, bringing a wealth of experience and expertise in the pension sector.
Caitlin’s appointment is effective immediately, she reports to Martin Tilley and will be based at WBR Group’s Wimbledon office but will spend time between all six offices.
Her role will include the review, development and promotion of the professional services offered by the group to their SSASs and sponsoring employers.
Caitlin Southall has an impressive background in the financial services industry.
Prior to her role as Senior Technical Marketing Manager at Nucleus Financial, she served as a Pension Technical Manager at Curtis Banks, where she was responsible for developing and managing pension products, providing technical support, and ensuring compliance with regulatory requirements.
Caitlin was also active in thought leadership, contributing to industry discussions on topics such as the gender pension gap and pension policy reforms.
She is also known for her industry expertise on pension issues, having contributed to various industry publications and podcasts.
Martin Tilley, COO of WBR Group, said: “We are delighted to welcome Caitlin to our team. Her extensive experience and innovative approach will be invaluable as we continue to develop and expand our SSAS proposition. This appointment underscores our commitment to providing the highest levels of service and innovation to our clients.”
Caitlin Southall, Head of SSAS Proposition, said: “Having spent my 12 year career at Suffolk Life, Curtis Banks and latterly at Nucleus Financial, it was a difficult decision to leave the business I had seen grow and develop so much.
“But when the opportunity came to step into the senior leadership team of such a dynamic and thriving business, I couldn’t turn it down. This is a fantastic opportunity to contribute to the continued growth and success of the company, and I look forward to working with the talented team at WBR Group.”
Derbyshire firm acquired to form data protection powerhouse
Databarracks, the technology and business resilience specialist, has acquired COOLSPIRiT.
The Commvault Solution Provider Partner now joins Databarracks, the Managed Service Partner, to form a “data protection powerhouse.”
COOLSPIRiT’s CEO Damon Robertson said: “We’re thrilled to be joining a team who like us, have spent over 20 years protecting organisation’s data and continuity. I’ve known Databarracks Co-Founder Peter for a long time and Databarracks is an organisation that we know will be a great home and fit for our team and our customers.”
Databarracks Managing Director, James Watts said: “Three years ago we acquired 4sl, to become the UK’s largest Commvault MSP. With COOLSPIRiT, we add a fantastic Solution Provider and CASP capability.”
Robertson continued: “From our innovative infrastructure, cyber and data protection capabilities to Databarracks’ expertise in Business Resilience and Public Cloud, there are immediate benefits for customers of both organisations.
“Over the last few years, Commvault has made some terrific acquisitions and innovations and is shifting to subscription services. It aligns exactly with what Databarracks is doing in public cloud data protection and cyber resilience. Together, we have the best team in the industry and a global delivery capability using the public cloud.”
Watts continued: “In addition to COOLSPIRiT’s expertise in Commvault, it also offers many other technologies across data protection, infrastructure, storage and cyber and brings some fantastic partnerships.
“When COOLSPIRiT and Databarracks were founded, we were protecting organisations against data loss and downtime caused by IT failures, fires or floods. We’ve since entered the cyber-era. Organisations still face those threats, but now too, the existential threat of ransomware and cyber.
“There are very few true data protection specialists and fewer still who can also help address the growing cyber, business continuity and resilience challenges.
“Our vision is that the only way to guarantee your recoverability and have confidence in continuity is with a holistic, integrated approach. IT Operations, Cyber, Risk, and Business Continuity can’t be siloed. Great response capability is only possible when the functions work together in concert.
“At Databarracks, we don’t just provide technology, we deliver outcomes for our customers. Prepared teams, organised response, faster recovery, reduced risk and improved resilience. The right technologies are vital but must be combined with the people and process to match. That is the value we add.”
Administration sale saves manufacturing business
A Lincolnshire manufacturing business has been saved and jobs preserved following its fall into administration.
Gareth Harris and Deviesh Raikundalia of RSM UK Restructuring Advisory LLP were appointed as Joint Administrators of MTAG Composites Limited, MTAG (Holdings) Limited and Electric Future Group Limited on 12 July 2024.
Based in Coningsby, MTAG Composites is the trading company in the group which manufactures composite parts for the rail, aerospace, automotive, construction and leisure sectors.
Following RSM’s appointment, the Joint Administrators temporarily ceased operations to assess the position, but since 19 July have continued to trade the Composites business with the support of its highly skilled workforce and key customers whilst seeking a sale of the business and assets.
As a result of that process the business and assets of MTAG Composites Limited were sold on 14 November 2024 to a new entity, GRP Alliance Limited which intends to continue to trade from the existing site in Lincolnshire without interruption and who have a first option to purchase the assets of MTAG (Holdings) Limited within the coming months.
RSM was advised by Sarah Foster, Natalie Bromley and Jawad Ilyad from Addleshaw Goddard solicitors, with support from Sanderson Weatherall agents.
Deviesh Raikundalia, Restructuring Advisory Director at RSM and Joint Administrator, said: “We are delighted to have preserved specialist employment in the local economy, and completed the sale of this well-respected business.
“We also welcome the new investment that the purchaser is providing for MTAG, which ought to secure its long-term future and create a platform for growth. We are particularly grateful to the loyal staff, customers and other stakeholders who have supported us during our trading period given the uncertainty of the outcome following our sudden appointment.”
Ten aspiring Northamptonshire entrepreneurs become second cohort in Vulcan Creatives business incubation programme
Ten aspiring entrepreneurs have become the second cohort chosen to take part in Northamptonshire’s Vulcan Creatives business incubation programme.
Vulcan Creatives, which launched last year with the inaugural group, is a free six-month initiative run by the team at Northampton’s serviced workspace Vulcan Works.
Led by Vulcan Works’ on-site business growth manager Darren Smith and funded by West Northamptonshire Council utilising £40,000 of the UK Shared Prosperity Fund (UKSPF), Vulcan Creatives supports ambitious local people hoping to kick start a new business or grow an existing idea with specialist support.
The programme opened for applications in the summer and almost 50 entries were sent in. Those were then whittled down to the final 10 businesses. They are:
- Saphiah Otuo-mensah, who offers Mensah Wellbeing assessments, therapy and training
- Adam Lee, who founded the Northampton-based coffee brand Shoetown Coffee with his brother
- Robert Lambert, who has a Game & Digital Media Development company
- Amy Lin, preschool education company
- Danielle Heneghan runs a Human-Centric UI/UX and Web Development Agency with a focus on AI-driven solutions and accessibility for the neurodiverse
- Olivia Krawczyk, a graphic designer
- Tia Dang, creative design studio specialising in branding, social media management, photography, and videography
- Ben Hellon, fitness and wellness services, primarily designed to support former prisoners
- Blandine Davies, non-invasive aesthetics, health and wellness treatments
- Faye Taylor, web developer and host
Nielsen McAllister joins DF4TA’s 100 Club as the Derby charity fundraises to fight food poverty in run up to Christmas
Derby-based PR and communications specialist Nielsen McAllister has announced a series of plans to support Derby Food 4 Thought Alliance (DF4TA) as the city-based charity launches its Christmas campaign for those facing food insecurity.
The St Peters Quarter business, based on Green Lane, has become the latest sponsor of the charity’s 100 Club, pledging £100 for each of the next 12 months which will help feed 20 children for three days a month – equating to 240 children a year.
The team selected DF4TA as Nielsen McAllister’s charity partner for the year and has already seen two members use their employee ‘Charity Days’ to provide hands-on assistance.
Digital marketing apprentice, Rory Hay and account executive Tom Starkey, provided help straight away, spending a day working with DF4TA following its hugely successful school uniform appeal from earlier this year.
More than 3,000 items of clothing were donated during a five-day pop-up Uniform Shop at the Derbion Community Hub and both Rory and Tom helped move the items for distribution.
Tom Starkey said: “Rory and I had a great day helping DF4TA. It was rewarding to know that each box would be going to help children in need, and we’re proud to support such a worthy cause.”
With its sponsorship cementing recent support provided to the charity, the agency is also joining DF4TA’s reverse advent calendar campaign this December. Here members of the team will donate one item of food a day to provide goods that will be distributed to people in need across the city.
Paul Brookhouse, manager of the Derby charity, said: “We are enormously grateful to Nielsen McAllister for its ongoing sponsorship. Donations of money and time are essential to our future and make a massive difference to the help we can provide to those in need.”
This month, DF4TA celebrates the first anniversary of its 100 Club and has revealed that 25 businesses signed up for the fundraising campaign in 2024. Despite this success, the charity is seeking more businesses to sign up to its campaign and support it buy urgently needed food items, particularly in the run up to Christmas.
Paul said: “We often find it hard to feed all the families who come to us asking for help. More people than ever before are struggling with food insecurity, and quite often we have to make an urgent appeal for donations.
“We would be delighted if more businesses could help us in any way they can. Their support will help us make a real difference to so many at this time of year.”
According to recent data revealed at The Derby Child Poverty Summit this year, 38.3% of all children in Derby city are living in poverty – and this number is rising. Broken down further, nearly half of all children (47.6%) of those living in the Derby South constituency are doing so in poverty.
Simon Wildash, Managing Director at Nielsen McAllister, said: “Sadly, there are too many families and children in the city who are facing food insecurity and so we are proud to be able to support the Derby Food 4 Thought Alliance as they seek to help those in need.
“Rory and Tom really enjoyed volunteering at DF4TA this month and we hope that through providing practical support alongside joining the 100 Club we will be able to help Paul and the team in the run up to Christmas and beyond.”
New funding to transform cyber training in the East Midlands
A groundbreaking project to close the cyber skills gap and create a resilient workforce to protect businesses and communities against online threats has won Government funding.
CyberSprint: Fast Track to the Future, will redefine how cyber security training is delivered moving it from traditional IT to reskilling professionals in sectors ranging from law to logistics, creative industries to construction.
And it will also see cybersecurity embedded in the curriculum for 93 schools and colleges across the region, helping students gain vital foundation to keep them safe online.
De Montfort University Leicester (DMU) will lead the £76,000 project, working in collaboration with an alliance of regional leaders in cybersecurity, education, and business. Together, they will develop an inclusive and scalable training toolkit that serves diverse sectors and communities.
DMU’s Dr Ismini Vasileiou said CyberSprint had the potential to transform not only training but change the face of the industry, by including bold ambitions to improve diversity within the cyber profession and better reflect the diversity of the region.
She said: “CyberSprint is set to transform cybersecurity training in the UK, fostering a workforce capable of meeting today’s digital challenges while providing opportunities for people from all walks of life to contribute to a more secure, cyber-resilient future.”
Innovate UK announced its backing for the programme this week. Traditional cybersecurity programmes often target individuals with technical backgrounds, CyberSprint brings cross-sectoral approach, offering training to non-technical professionals working in fields such as law, psychology, finance and business.
The CyberSprint model ensures that a diverse range of participants acquire practical, industry-recognised cybersecurity skills that can be readily applied in the workplace.
CyberSprint’s partners are: East Midlands Cyber Security Cluster, Leicester and Leicestershire Business and Skills Partnership, Leicestershire Careers Hub, SASIG (Specialist Awareness Security Information Group), Barclays Eagle Labs, Digital Planning Limited, East Midlands Chamber, the Chartered Institute of Information Security (CIISEC), and the Chartered Institute for IT (BCS).
Holly Porter, Managing Director of BCS, The Chartered Institute for IT, said: “We are excited to be part of The CyberSprint initiative which is an important step towards meeting the local cyber security needs in the East Midlands, with a programme that has nationwide potential. It is driven by a network covering education, industry and academia and will equip people with the industry-recognised skills needed in the digital economy.
“What’s more it draws from the diverse range of talent available across the region to ensure there will be a plentiful supply of skilled cyber security professionals in the future.”
CyberSprint will work with Leicester Careers Hub’s Digital Accelerator Programme to integrate cybersecurity learning into the curriculum for 93 schools and colleges across the East Midlands.
For adults, the Leicester and Leicestershire Business and Skills Partnership will deliver cybersecurity bootcamps and targeted training for career changers and working professionals.
The project’s commitment to diversity and digital inclusion aims to reach disadvantaged communities, creating entry points for those who might otherwise be excluded from cybersecurity careers.
Major Lincolnshire industrial unit sold for £3.3m
Watling Real Estate has completed on the sale of a substantial industrial unit in Lincolnshire for £3.3m.
Ben Holyhead and Chris Davies in the Birmingham office of Watling Real Estate were instructed by Elizabeth Welch and Matthew Ingram of Kroll, who were appointed joint administrators of Cartwright Bros (Haulage) Ltd in June this year.
A sale of the 78,733 sq ft unit on Freeman Road, North Hykeham, Lincoln was secured to a local occupier.
Ben Holyhead said: “Given the critical shortage of standing freehold industrial stock within Lincolnshire and the wider East Midlands, and with the cost of developing new accommodation exceeding £100 per sq ft, we anticipated strong interest in this unit.
“We were pleased to achieve the asking price of £3.3 million following a competitive bidding process and to conclude the sale in a timely fashion. It’s great to see this unit acquired by a local occupier, providing them with much needed space to expand their business, as well as providing valuable employment opportunities for the local economy.”
The administrators were supported by law firm Shoosmiths, with plant and machinery advice provided by Gordon Brothers.
Plans unveiled to put Leicester on the map as a music city
Ambitious plans to make Leicester one of the UK’s foremost music cities were unveiled on Thursday 14 November at the Leicester Business Festival.
The newly formed Leicester Music Board (LMB) will champion the city’s music scene and raise the profile of its diverse and vibrant music industry on a national stage.
The LMB is a partnership of music industry and education organisations and professionals working together to support the growth of the city’s music industry.
It is being supported by Leicester City Council to build on the success of the inaugural Leicester Music Conference which attracted more than 300 delegates, and engaged 30 music organisations, along with many emerging and established artists.
Greg Aiello, MD of PPL PRS, said: “Leicester has a long history of creating amazing talent, and nurturing the creative arts. Music has been, and will continue to be the heartbeat of this great city. The Leicester Music Board aims to put music at the forefront, working with and building out the ecosystem that is already in place, as well as supporting those initiatives that will really drive change and growth.
“As an industry, music not only contributes to the success of those wonderful creators that make the music we all love, but also to the many businesses, venues, communities and behind the scenes teams that help to showcase the talent. It is an exciting time to be part of a forward thinking board that captures that same spirit of creativity, championing music for the benefit of the Leicester community.”
One of the first tasks of the new board will be to guide the development of the Leicester Music Conference and Festival 2025, which is expanding across two days next year.
A Young People’s Music Careers Conference will form the first day on Thursday 27 February 2025, followed by the Leicester Music Conference for industry professionals at all career stages on Friday 28 February 2025.
Taking place at the city centre’s 2Funky music venue, it will feature industry panels, networking opportunities, one-to-ones with industry professionals, live performances and workshops.
Yasin El Ashrafi, who founded the Leicester Music Conference and has been an integral part of the city’s music industry for more than a decade, said: “I’m genuinely excited about our ambitions for the city. With a powerful blend of expertise across music, education and community, we have an incredible foundation to build upon.
“Our focus is to expand the music conference, conduct a thorough mapping and audit of local music businesses, and collaborate on creating a lifelong music strategy for our city. Together, we’re working to elevate Leicester’s music scene, ensuring it remains vibrant, inclusive, and impactful for generations to come.”
A key aim is to develop better pathways into industry careers through the development of a ‘lifelong’ music strategy for the city, from early years music education through to professional industry careers. It aims to ensure opportunities exist within the city to stop the exodus of talent.
Sarah Barton-Wales, Head of Leicestershire Music, said: “Leicester Music Board is leading the way to bridge the gap between music education and the music industry and I am delighted that Leicestershire Music (as the strategic lead organisation for Leicestershire Music Hub) is represented on the Board.
“Progression pathways into a career in music, in its broadest sense, are unique and individual and there is a lot of work to do to educate parents and schools in the many ways in which this can be achieved. This includes encouraging creativity back into the curriculum, formal qualifications such as BTEC and GCSE music and opportunities outside of the classroom to get real world experience. Not to mention the level of support and opportunities that young people need in order to make that leap from education into work.
“The Board will place industry and education side by side to make sure that young people are supported into a career much better and equipped with the skills to build their careers in the way that they want to. Leicester, with its diverse and vibrant music scene, offers young people a wealth of career opportunities on their doorstep and the Board will help to advocate for Leicester City and all it has to offer.”
It will also strengthen grassroots support for the city’s music community through collaboration, fundraising and events creating opportunities for musicians, producers and industry professionals.
Tania Lee, founder of UMC Management and a champion of women in music, said: “The launch of the Leicester Music Board marks an exciting milestone for the city’s creative community, promising to amplify the voices and talents of local musicians, venues, and industry professionals.
“From a community perspective, the Board represents a dedicated effort to celebrate and nurture Leicester’s rich musical heritage while creating new opportunities for growth and inclusivity. By focusing on supporting artists, preserving grassroots venues, and fostering a vibrant music culture, the Board aims to make Leicester a hub for diverse musical experiences.
“For residents and creatives alike, this initiative brings hope for increased investment, collaboration, and visibility, ensuring that music continues to be a unifying force that reflects the city’s dynamic and multicultural identity. The community’s involvement and support for this endeavour are essential, as the Board seeks to empower local voices and transform Leicester into a thriving centre for music innovation and cultural pride.”
A Music Mapping process – supported by Liverpool Music Board – and community consultation has also been launched. The mapping will provide a snapshot of the current music businesses and music education providers located in Leicester City, with the view to informing the strategy to address gaps in provision and unlock funding for the city.
The mapping will also feed into a national database of music venues in the UK to help organisations such as UK Music advocate and lobby on behalf of the creative economy. In Liverpool, its mapping has already been used to put on new night bus routes to better serve the night-time economy.
The Leicester Music Board is made up of representatives from HQ CAN, 2Funky Arts, Leicester City Council, TiME – Technology in Music Education UK, National Youth Jazz Collective, Leicestershire Music, UMC Management, PPL PRS and DMU.
Stage set for Phase II as final unit let at Wymeswold Business Quarter
Specialist commercial agents Mather Jamie have completed the letting of the last available unit in Phase I of the Wymeswold Business Quarter development.
Having been involved throughout the process from initial site acquisition, sale of all the units and subsequent lettings of these units, the completion of Unit 8 marks full occupation of the successful first phase.
Wymeswold Business Quarter is a purpose-built industrial hub designed to cater to modern business requirements. Phase I introduced 20 industrial units offering flexible spaces ranging from 1,900 to 12,000 sq ft.
Mather Jamie worked closely with The Prince Group, the owners and developer of the site, guiding the project from its initial planning stages through to completion and marketing. The final letting of Unit 8 to Revive POS signifies full occupancy of Phase I.
Kenny Whomsley, Managing Director and Founder at Revive POS, said: “Taking occupancy of our new office and warehouse is a pivotal moment for us. Our new location allows us to streamline our supply chain, scale up our offerings, and continue innovating to meet the evolving needs of our customers. This facility represents our commitment to quality, service, and sustainability as we grow.”
With Phase I fully occupied, attention now shifts to Phase II of Wymeswold Business Quarter. The next phase will feature 20 additional high-specification industrial units, ranging from 2,195 to over 5,000 square feet, with completion targeted for Q4 of 2025.
Fraser Hearfield, Commercial Surveyor at Mather Jamie, said: “Wymeswold Business Quarter has provided much needed new build industrial and warehousing units into the local Loughborough Market, and it’s rewarding to see Phase I reach its completion. We are excited to advance into Phase II, providing much-needed commercial space that will continue to support business growth in the region.”
The development has already contributed to the local economy, creating 95 jobs in the area. Phase II is expected to generate an additional 80-100 employment opportunities, further boosting the local community.
Derbyshire travel specialist sold to competitor
Luxury holiday rental specialist Menorca Private Owners (MPO) has been sold to Oliver’s Travels, an award-winning consolidator in the high-end villa rentals space, with support from accounting and advising firm PKF Smith Cooper.
MPO is a family-owned business which was established in 2003 by Paul and Jane Perera to provide luxury holiday accommodation to holidaymakers seeking sun and relaxation on the island of Menorca.
The acquisition of MPO is the biggest to date for Oliver’s Travels, adding an additional 32 villas to its existing portfolio of 127 properties which it manages on the island. The deal swiftly follows the acquisition of French company Homes and Provence, which completed in July 2024.
The shareholders of MPO were advised by Adam Rollason (Tax Partner) and Darren Hodson (Corporate Finance Partner) who provided tax structuring and deal support, respectively.
Adam Rollason commented: “We are delighted to have been able to assist the Perera family on this transaction. Paul, Jane and Peter have built a great business, and I have no doubt that the team at Oliver’s Travels will have further success as they look to expand their market share across the Balearic Islands.”
Darren Hodson, Corporate Finance Partner, added: “It has been a pleasure working with the shareholders of MPO on this transaction. We wish them all the best in their future endeavours.”
Managing director of MPO, Pete Perera, said: “I’m excited by the opportunity to grow the business and continue to be part of the MPO family. I know I speak for the entire team that the business has been left in great hands and will continue to deliver the personal service our owners and travelling clients know us for.”
Vistry Group completes first homes at Alvaredus in Fairham, Nottingham
Vistry Group, the provider of affordable mixed-tenure homes, has completed the first homes at Alvaredus, its development of 333 new homes in Fairham, on the southern edge of Nottingham.
Lee Parry, Vistry’s Managing Director for the North East Midlands, welcomed James Naish, MP for Rushcliffe, and Cllr. Neil Clarke, Rushcliffe Borough Council Leader, and representatives from Homes England, Rushcliffe Borough Council, Clowes, Gatehouse Investment Management and emh to celebrate the completion of the first batch of the new homes.
Alvaredus is a new development of 333 two, three and four-bedroom homes. 68 of the properties will be being sold on the open market under the Countryside Homes brand, 165 are destined for the affordable market with 100 homes owned and managed by emh group and a further 65 properties will be available through MTVH.
The final 100 will become private rental homes through Start Living, the single-family build-to-rent joint venture between Gatehouse Investment Management and TPG Real Estate Partners.
Alvaredus is part of Fairham, the 606-acre mixed use neighbourhood scheme championed by Homes England and Clowes Developments, helping to deliver new employment opportunities and assisting Rushcliffe Borough Council in meeting its aim to create 13,500 new homes by 2030.
Lee Parry, Managing Director of Vistry North East Midlands, which is developing Alvaredus under the Countryside Homes brand, said: “After years of planning and construction work, it’s always great to see houses built and people moving in, turning this site from a development into a real community.
“We’re hugely proud to be contributing to the wider Fairham scheme, creating an exciting new place to live that combines a green setting with exceptional transport links and all the vibrancy that the nearby city of Nottingham has to offer.”
James Naish, MP for Rushcliffe, said: “It is great to see this site coming to life with a genuine mix of high-quality private sale, affordable and private rental homes being built here in Rushcliffe, with excellent housing options for people from all walks of life.
“Both major parties at the general election committed to building at least 1.5 million homes over five years, and I’m pleased to see how quickly this site is now progressing after years of planning. I’ve no doubt that developments like Fairham will help to tackle the UK’s housing crisis.”
Rushcliffe Borough Council’s Cabinet Portfolio Holder for Planning & Housing Cllr Roger Upton said: “This is a milestone for the Fairham development, and we’re pleased to see the completion of over 300 new homes at Alvaredus by Vistry Group.
“These homes are part of the 606-acre site, which will welcome a thriving new neighbourhood, bringing new homes, employment opportunities, and a new sense of community here in the Borough.
“The development forms a key part of our Local Plan and will help meet the Borough’s housing need and central government’s aim for 13,500 new homes by 2030.”
Kate Henderson, representing Clowes Developments and Homes England, the Partnership responsible for bringing forward Fairham, commented: “Residents moving into their brand-new homes at Alvaredus, Fairham is a very exciting occasion for the Partnership.
“Fairham is going to continue to evolve over the next few years as we deliver 3,000 new homes, one million square feet of employment, green open spaces and so much more. We have worked hard to deliver the essential infrastructure.
“Elements of the 606-acre brand new neighbourhood are starting to come to life but there’s more to do. We are delighted to welcome the first residents, and we hope they enjoy being part of the Fairham story for years to come.”
Chris Jones, Executive Director of Development at emh, said: “We are delighted to be a partner in this development, not only to deliver high-quality, mixed tenure affordable homes that respond to the needs within the local area but also ensuring that we create places where people are proud to live.
“We look forward to welcoming residents to their new homes and seeing this fantastic community grow.”
Paul Stockwell, Group Managing Director at Gatehouse Investment Management, added: “It is hugely exciting to see the first homes completed at Alvaredus, and we look forward to families moving into the Start Living homes in the coming weeks.
“Our focus is on providing residents high-quality homes with excellent local amenities and strong transport links, and as such we are pleased to see Start Living as part of the offer at this landmark scheme.”
Sandra Lukoseviciene joins digital innovators Cube Purple
Cube Purple, a software company, has welcomed Sandra Lukoseviciene, CEO and founder of the award-winning OK’s Digital, to their expanding team. Sandra’s expertise and visionary approach bring a transformative shift to Cube Purple, strengthening its ability to drive revolutionary solutions in today’s technology landscape.
Sandra has earned acclaim across the UK for her work in digital solutions, celebrated for empowering businesses with accessible tools that elevate their digital presence. Through OK’s Digital, she has simplified complex processes, helping business owners leverage high-end visuals and cutting-edge digital training. Her mission aligns seamlessly with Cube Purple’s commitment to innovative and effective software solutions.
In joining Cube Purple, Sandra’s creative approach to digital solutions combines with Cube Purple’s robust software development capabilities. Together, they will offer a comprehensive suite of products, from time management systems and fire safety tools to custom app and software development, cloud solutions, in-house systems, and advanced AI-driven automations, all designed to empower businesses to thrive in today’s competitive environment.
“Joining Cube Purple marks a pivotal step forward,” Sandra said. “It’s not just about broadening our capabilities; it’s about aligning with a team that shares our vision for growth and impact. Together, we’re positioned to offer an even richer range of solutions, enabling businesses to embrace and excel with technology.”
Mark Shaw, CEO of Cube Purple, also sees this as an invaluable opportunity. He said: “Sandra’s forward-thinking approach perfectly complements our commitment to cutting-edge software. With her expertise on board, we’re uniquely positioned to blend creativity and technical excellence, helping businesses streamline and grow in an ever-evolving marketplace.”
As part of this new phase, Cube Purple will launch the Purple Pod—a podcast dedicated to inspiring and informing businesses on digital transformation.
Worksop land sale paves way for care home and houses
A new care home and 10 houses are set to be built in Worksop following the completion of a land sale.
Property consultancy Fisher German has completed the sale of a 3.8-acre site, based to the north of Gateford Toll Bar, to Stancliffe Homes.
The development is set to include a 70-bedroom care home as well as 10 residential dwellings of varying sizes to cater for local needs.
Fisher German provided the landowner with strategic development advice before acting on the sale of the site.
Outline planning permission for the land was granted in December last year, and Fisher German was able to devise a well-structured agreement which reduced the time to complete the sale.
Work on the site is now anticipated to commence when the final planning conditions have been agreed.
Alex Morrison, of Fisher German, said: “We are delighted to announce the completion of the sale of this site in Worksop.
“This development will introduce a much-needed care facility to the area, offering accommodation and creating valuable employment opportunities. Additionally, it will include the construction of 10 high-quality new houses.
“It is a really intricate parcel of land with good access, and we were able to use our expertise to advise the landowner on how to market the site.
“In this case our client’s main objective was certainty around the receipt they would achieve as a result of the sale. We structured an agreement which enabled the landowner certainty, so they can plan appropriately.
“It also meant that we were able to execute the deal swiftly which is highly beneficial for everyone involved.
“We now look forward to seeing the development come to fruition for the benefit of those in and around the area.”
Works start on Lincolnshire charity’s new HQ project
Works have now started on new premises for charity Naomi’s Garden following a team of construction partners coming together to offer free labour and materials at cost price.
Louth-based Naomi’s Garden provides conductive education to families who have loved ones with movement disorders, such as Cerebral Palsy, Parkinson’s, Dyspraxia and Motor Delay, as well as conditions including Autism, ADHD, sensory processing and genetic disorders and Long Covid.
Having outgrown its current centre – which limited the number of families it could support – the small team of therapists at the charity raised enough funds to secure a new building, however funds are still needed to complete the purchase and to renovate it to make it fit for purpose.
Landscape architecture practice, Influence Landscape Planning & Design, stepped in to support Naomi’s Garden by bringing together construction and professional services partners to move the project forward.
Internal works have now officially begun by Lincolnshire firm GBM Demolition, who are stripping out and widening door frames.
As previously reported, East Midlands-based construction partners who have committed to providing services are Influence, contractor G F Tomlinson, project manager and quantity surveyor Gleeds, solicitor Knights, and A + G Architects.
New to the project are commercial fit-out company APSS, glazer Tradeglaze, GRS Electrical, retailer B&Q Louth, and West Lindsey Landscapes. The charity is still hoping to find a drainage, heating, and M&E partner.
The new centre, located on Manby Park in Louth, was previously a motorcycle shop and needs extensive internal and external works to make it suitable for the charity to deliver its life changing services.
The construction partners will be working together to completely transform the building, with works including internal strip out, raising floors, installing ramps, new windows and doors, complete interior decoration, and landscaping to the exterior.
If enough money is raised, which is approximately £150,000, Naomi’s Garden’s new centre should be complete at the end of this year and welcoming families in early 2025.
When complete, the new centre will enable the charity to extend its working hours, provide group sessions and create a dynamic learning environment for all – no matter what their disability, resulting in supporting many more adults and children each year.
Managing director of Influence Landscape Planning and Design, Sara Boland, who lives in Louth, contacted Naomi’s Garden during the pandemic after having read about its plight and initially offered to help by providing landscaping services. That conversation continued to Sara offering to bring together a team of willing partners to deliver the works.
Sara said: “It’s been a real journey to get to this stage. This small charity worked incredibly hard to get to this position and through sheer grit and determination, the new centre they so desperately need is now in sight.
“A really big thank you to the companies which have supported us to date. What we are creating will positively impact so many lives and with these sort of services limited across the country, will offer more Lincolnshire and East Midlands-based families hope.
“Fundraising continues while the construction team and I focus on finding new partners and getting the work done. Any offers of help toward the project, no matter the size, are always welcome.”
Sarah-Jayne Walker, lead conductor at Naomi’s Garden, said: “As a small charity, we are overwhelmed by the kindness of local businesses who have come alongside us to help create Naomi’s Garden’s permanent home.
“Teamed with the fundraising efforts of our community we have started to see the transformation take place. We, as trustees, are beyond grateful as we continue to build on Naomi’s Legacy. Here’s to the next stages!”
Retailer B&Q at Louth recently chose the charity for its volunteering community day. At the end of October volunteers from the store spent a day creating some of the outside spaces, which included planting hedging, bulbs, hanging baskets, raised beds and clearing pathways. The retailer also donated £1,000 worth of B&Q materials which were needed for the day.
West Lindsey Landscapes were also present, preparing and digging the ground for the hedging which they kindly donated. B&Q and West Lindsey Landscapes have transformed the external areas of the new centre.
Naomi’s Garden has a SEND (Special Education Needs and Disabilities) specialist who works with the needs of children with autism, ADHD and sensory processing issues, and with the help of Lincolnshire County Council, also provides free school holiday provision services including free healthy meals and enriching activities.
To make a donation towards Naomi’s Garden’s new centre, please visit: https://www.gofundme.com/f/naomis-gardens-big-move?utm_campaign=p_nacp+share-sheet&utm_medium=copy_link&utm_source=customer
Midlands Connect seeks views on need for M54/M6 link
Midlands Connect is urging firms to come forward and let them know how the proposed M54/M6 link would impact their businesses and operations.
The organisation believes a lot of businesses along the M54 corridor would benefit from stronger connections to the northbound M6, but are currently held back by gridlock and daily delays on roads like the A449 and A460.
Integrated Transport Programme Lead for Midlands Connect, Swati Mittal said: “We want to hear from businesses and we want to hear their experiences. We want to hear about the impact that local congestion and gridlock on the A460 and A449 can cause your firm on a daily basis.
“Please do get in touch with us over the next couple of weeks. We need your views to highlight the critical demand to upgrade this vital link to the local road network. Your experiences and thoughts could make a massive difference, please do take five minutes to get in touch and let us know what the impact is on your business.”
The new government has outlined ambitions to unlock key economic growth corridors, and Midlands Connect wants to build a strong case for it to invest in the M54/M6 northbound link. They would like to speak to organisations that use this route to understand how it impacts their business operations, and how investment in the proposed link road would support their businesses to grow or operate more efficiently.
These discussions would be used to form the basis of a qualitative report that will help build the case for this much-needed upgrade. Midlands Connect is urging local business to share their views over the next two weeks.
Views are invited via email to mcadmin@midlandsconnect.uk.
Future of Peak District hotel secured following acquisition
The Premier Inn Chesterfield West hotel and Highwayman Beefeater Restaurant, situated at the edge of the Peak District National Park just six miles from Chatsworth, has been acquired by the Devonshire Group, securing the site’s future.
The Group has purchased the site for an undisclosed sum and will focus on protecting and growing the impact of the hotel and restaurant within the local economy and Peak District visitor landscape.
Located in Eastmoor just off the A619, the hotel currently offers 25 rooms alongside a Beefeater restaurant, and employs 28 staff. The Devonshire Group will enter a period of planning to bring forward a new vision for the site that will be announced in due course.
In the meantime, the restaurant and hotel will retain the name The Highwayman. All existing staff at the site will continue in their employment at the hotel and restaurant under the Devonshire Group’s ownership.
The Devonshire Group has a strong track record of investing in local business and hospitality. It oversees a diverse collection of hotels, restaurants and holiday cottages across the Chatsworth Estate, including The Cavendish Hotel and The Devonshire Arms at Beeley and Pilsley.
The group has also owned the nearby Peak Village shopping centre and nature reserve since 2021, consistently developing the site’s offer since its acquisition, as well as its reputation as a destination for local communities and visitors alike.
Stephen Vickers, CEO of the Devonshire Group, said: “We are always looking for opportunities to create and grow businesses that have a positive impact on local people, local employment and the wider visitor economy in Derbyshire.
“The Highwayman site represents just that, providing us with the chance to enhance an already successful site to encourage even more visitors to this special corner of the UK, connecting them with nature, heritage and the wealth of local activities and produce on offer here.
“We are looking forward to welcoming our new colleagues to the Devonshire Group and sharing our plans for the site in due course.”
Richard Palmer, Managing Director of Devonshire Hotels and Restaurants Group, said: “We’re very excited about the opportunity to add the Highwayman to our portfolio of restaurants and accommodation in Derbyshire, and to build on the warm welcome and strong reputation created over years by the staff at this site.”
BRUSH acquires majority stake in Scottish engineering contractor
Loughborough-based energy engineering solutions provider BRUSH Group has acquired a majority stake in Scottish infrastructure and environmental engineering contractor McGowan Group.
The multimillion pound deal sees McGowan – a National Electricity Registration Scheme (NERS) accredited Independent Connection Provider (ICP) – become a key part of BRUSH Engineering Solutions, a leader in turnkey solutions to the UK’s power distribution network.
Based in Aviemore in the Scottish Highlands, McGowan employs 60 people in three business units: McGowan Infrastructure, McGowan Environmental, and Eco Cable Protect UK.
Nicolas Pitrat, CEO of BRUSH Group, said: “This is an exciting deal for both BRUSH and McGowan, creating significant growth opportunities both north and south of the border. There are strong synergies between our two businesses and McGowan’s impressive environmental credentials add a new dimension to our engineering capabilities.
“What’s more, their exclusive Eco Cable Protect business gives BRUSH customers a lower cost, lower carbon alternative protection system for cable and pipe laying projects across the UK.”
Ross McGowan, who founded McGowan Group in 2009 and will continue as Managing Director alongside the existing management team, said: “Becoming part of BRUSH Group is an exciting new chapter in our story and we’re looking forward to working with the team at BRUSH to apply our approach to working in the natural environment to a broader range of customers as we support the growth of the business across the UK.”
McGowan is the latest in a series of acquisitions by BRUSH, which when combined place the Leicestershire-based firm in a leading position among engineering solutions providers including Aprenda, ETA Projects, KUS Power Engineering, Poise and Rybka.
Nicolas Pitrat continued: “2024 has been yet another year of transformation for our business – one where we have made huge strides towards our vision of delivering complete turnkey solutions for our customers.
“Together, we are changing the landscape of the industry, redefining what it is to be an original equipment manufacturer; using our hard-earned experience, industry expertise, and drive for excellence to build a business fit for the future. As we move into 2025, we are in a stronger position than ever to deliver industry-leading products, services, and solutions to support the UK’s energy transition.”
Leadership unites as Penny delivers 7-language international programme
With elections and organisational change the focus of global affairs, one Nottingham-based expert has completed a major contract with one of the world’s foremost construction and engineering companies. Nottingham-based leadership and change specialist Penny Strutton, has been working with BrandSafway, which has a network of 340 strategic locations across 30 countries and more than 38,000 employees, on a major leadership and development programme. It has not only seen Penny delivering her “Think Forward” programme’s Elevated Leadership course in various countries but also, thanks to translation, in 7 different languages! Working with Penny over the last 6 months, the BrandSafway team have been discovering more about themselves and their leadership style and potential through the Lumina Learning concept. This includes psychometrics that reveal people’s dynamic personality, accelerate collaboration, creativity and problem-solving. Speaking about the programme, Penny said: “This has been one of the more challenging programmes to deliver purely from the scale and logistical perspective of so many countries, cultures and languages that we need to factor in but that challenge is what has made this such a rewarding journey for all of us. “There has been that one common thread uniting the entire programme as we’ve rolled it out and that is leadership. Now more than ever, in an era of great change and indeed challenge across the globe, this is a key skill that the world needs. “It has been fantastic to work with the BrandSafway team, they are a forward thinking organisation that is proactively placing their people at the heart of the business and I’ve learned a huge amount myself – how can’t you in such diverse teaching and learning situations!”
