E-commerce fulfilment company raises £2m
Warehow, an expanding e-commerce fulfilment company catering to fashion and homeware retailers, has raised £2.1m in a Series A funding round led by the Midlands Engine Investment Fund II through its appointed fund manager Mercia Ventures, with support from existing investor MENA Moonshots.
Warehow enables retailers to sell on multiple marketplaces such as eBay, Very, Next and John Lewis through one fulfilment service. Items are picked and packed at its two state-of-the-art warehouses near Worksop and shipped by third-party couriers. Warehow also manages returns processing.
The company was founded in 2021 by Laurence Guy, Al Gerrie and Pete Harris as a spin-out from Laurence’s e-commerce business We Are Pentagon Group. Warehow employs 70 staff and has partnerships with leading brands such as River Island, Hoover, True Religion, and Puma. The company has doubled its revenue over the past year.
The latest investment, which brings the total raised to over £3.75m, will enable Warehow to further develop its technology, create additional storage capacity in one of its existing warehouses and step up its sales and marketing activities.
Co-founder and CEO, Pete Harris, said: “This funding is a significant milestone for Warehow. It will enable us to accelerate our growth trajectory and execute our business plan more effectively. We’re excited about the opportunities and challenges ahead as we continue to scale.”
Howard Mitchell of Mercia Ventures said: “Managing fulfilment across multiple sales channels is a complex task. Larger retailers are often focused on physical stores and their websites, while smaller businesses may lack essential infrastructure. Warehow’s efficient warehouse operations and innovative use of technology are key drivers of its success. This funding will enable the team to scale the business and meet the increasing demand.”
David Keenan of Nimbus Finance provided fundraising advice to Warehow. Ashley Taylor and Peter Mayhew from Shakespeare Martineau provided legal advice to Mercia on the deal.
Investigative tech firm Altia appoints Head of Product as it ramps up growth
Technology specialist Altia has appointed a new Head of Product as it looks to drive forward its innovative investigation software across the UK and beyond.
Sarah Saxton-Jones joins Altia’s UK team and will be tasked with leading the expansion and development of the tech expert’s products and services offering.
Key to her role will be overseeing the delivery of Altia HQ, the company’s new flagship platform which is designed to streamline and accelerate the crime-solving process with the most innovative investigation software.
Headquartered in Nottingham, Altia serves a global audience, providing law enforcement agencies, government departments, and private sector businesses with intelligence and investigation software.
The appointment comes during a period of growth for Altia, with the company recently making two senior appointments in its Asia, Pacific, Australia, and China team to strengthen its presence in the region.
The acquisition will further bolster Altia’s top-level positions, allowing it to accelerate its products and services to new and existing customers, with Sarah bringing with her over two decades of experience in driving large-scale digital transformation, innovation, and strategic business change across government entities, private sector and intelligence communities.
Throughout her career, Sarah has supported government entities and their suppliers to transition from traditional project management methodologies to more effective agile methodologies, enabling new products to support operations and successful migration of data centres to hybrid cloud platforms.
In her previous role as a Programme Director, Sarah led strategic government initiatives spanning technology, people, estates, and business change, where she optimised relationships with domestic and international partners, including CT Policing, The Ministry of Defence and other security and intelligence agencies.
Her work has led to significant technological advancements, delivering multi million pounds in efficiencies, while also adding substantial value to the UK Government’s customers.
Meanwhile, Sarah is experienced in enhancing the intelligence lifecycle and operational focus through strategic planning, developing objectives and key results (OKRs) to support the expansion of cloud products and applications.
Rob Sinclair, CEO, Altia, said: “At Altia we pride ourselves on delivering the best and most innovative tools to help our customers. Naturally, that means we want to work with the best and we are incredibly excited to have Sarah join our team.
“Her proven track record in smoothing the transitions to modern methodologies, delivering technological advancements, and enhancing operational transparency will be invaluable as we continue to innovate and expand our products and capabilities.”
Additionally, Sarah is a champion of culture change, advocating for inclusivity and innovation in traditionally change-averse environments. She was honoured with the Director General Award for innovation in 2021, a testament to her commitment to driving positive change.
“With her extensive experience and leadership, Sarah is set to play a pivotal role in the continued success and growth of Altia,” added Rob.
On appointment in her new role, Sarah said: “Altia has a background in delivering new and innovative technologies in the investigation field and I’m thrilled to have this exciting opportunity to join the team at a time of growth.
“I’m looking forward to contributing to the innovative projects that Altia has on the horizon and getting stuck in to help drive forward the impactful work that Altia is known for.
“I look forward to the challenges ahead and to being part of a company that is truly making a difference in the investigative tech field.”
Ernest Doe & Sons expands into southern Lincolnshire with acquisition of Burdens Group branches
Ernest Doe & Sons has acquired agricultural machinery dealer The Burdens Group’s southern Lincolnshire branches, located in Sutterton and North Kyme.
The acquisition was facilitated through the appointed administrators at Begbies Traynor (Central) LLP, following The Burdens Group’s entry into administration.
With existing branches across Essex, Suffolk, Norfolk, Cambridgeshire, Hertfordshire, Sussex, Surrey, and Kent, Ernest Doe & Sons is a family-owned business with a heritage dating back to 1898, and is committed to extending its footprint into Lincolnshire.
“We are thrilled to welcome the Sutterton and North Kyme branches into the Ernest Doe family,” said Managing Director Angus Doe. “Our focus is on maintaining the strong customer relationships cultivated by The Burdens Group, while introducing the high standards of quality and service that have defined Ernest Doe & Sons for over 125 years.
“We look forward to serving the local community and supporting our new customers with the expertise and dedication that our longstanding customers have come to rely on.”
Main contractors asked to give views on Cleethorpes’ Pier Gardens scheme
The next step towards the transformation of Cleethorpes’ Pier Gardens is underway, as main contractors are asked to give their views on the scheme.
Called ‘Preliminary Market Consultation’, this is normal practice for public sector organisations and is part of the process ahead of full tenders being released for large contracts.
It allows for interested businesses to look at the detail of the project and comment and takes the form of online questionnaires and a physical event, which will be held on Thursday 12 September from 1pm at The Knoll in Cleethorpes.
Following this, officers will look at the responses, opinions and views before finalising details and releasing the main tender for the work of principal contractor, which is expected to be done later this year.
The scheme for Pier Gardens is supported by £18.4m, which was awarded to Cleethorpes from the Levelling Up Fund (LUF).
The designs were finalised after the views of hundreds of people were gathered during public events, meetings and consultations. This feedback supported more modern and wildlife friendly planting schemes, along with areas for children’s and adults’ social activities, and an area that could enable pop up events, performances and group exercise. Additionally, people wanted to make sure that the gardens had improved lighting, sympathetic to the surroundings.
As a result, specific zoned areas have been designed by landscape architects, WSP, that feature water play, terraced play features, play structures for both junior and older children, along with a flexible event space towards the Sea Road end and a quieter area for reflective contemplation at the Memorial Gate end.
Welcoming this next step in Pier Gardens’ development journey, North East Lincolnshire Council’s Portfolio Holder for Culture, Heritage and the Visitor Economy, Cllr Hayden Dawkins, said: “Cleethorpes has been evolving and improving over the years and this a further step in growing our resort, which is fast becoming a jewel in the crown of our country’s East coast.
“This transformation of Pier Gardens is going to create wonderful spaces for both visitors and local people to visit and enjoy – spending time together as families and we all look forward to this work starting, and more importantly completing.”
Construction work begins on £7.5m Community Pavilion in Stapleford
Construction work on a new £7.5m Community Pavilion on the Hickings Lane Recreation Ground in Stapleford has begun.
The pavilion will be a state-of-the-art, multi-use building, with a recreation and sports ground, that will replace some of the town’s out-of-date community facilities.
Due to open in 2025, it will bring local community groups together under one roof as a central hub for people of all ages to meet, learn, play, dance and keep fit.
It includes:
- Community café
- 2 function rooms
- 2 multi-use events and learning spaces
- Community centre space
- Enhanced and increased onsite car parking spaces and cycle storage
- Two cutting-edge 3G multi-sports pitches, a seven-a-side multi-use pitch, space for two five-a-side grass pitches or one seven-a-side pitch, plus changing rooms
Leicester and Leicestershire skills plan makes progress
One year on from the publication of the Local Skills Improvement Plan (LSIP) for Leicester & Leicestershire, East Midlands Chamber has launched its progress report outlining the measures taken to date.
The original LSIP was launched in summer 2023 with the aim of making Leicester & Leicestershire the best place in the country for developing people with the skills needed for businesses to thrive, the economy to grow and individuals to succeed.
Recommendations were made against three broad priorities:
- Partnering with Further Education Colleges and others on the continued development of an education and skills offering that responds to the needs of business
- Growing businesses’ understanding of local skills offerings and delivery
- Ensuring local structures are fit for purpose to support collaborative working across businesses and educators
- Securing over £3m of Government funding for colleges to develop new programmes in the areas of green leadership
- Decarbonising transportation programmes with courses on electric/EV vehicles
- Rollout of a new local skills bootcamps programme aligned to specific priorities around green and digital upskilling, including a course on Generative AI
- Development of a new business ‘scorecard’ capturing business views on skills needs and provision
WBR Group in strategic expansion with appointment of Leicester law heavyweight
WBR Group (WBR), the independent provider of SSAS administration and tax advisory services, has made a strategic move, marking a significant milestone in its ongoing commitment to delivering exceptional legal services.
As part of this new chapter, WBR Group is welcoming Roy Botterill, a highly respected corporate lawyer, to join the firm’s team as Director of Law. Roy brings with him a wealth of experience from his previous role at Shakespeare Martineau, where he served for many years as Head of Leicester Office.
Roy’s commercial law expertise will be an integral part of an overall service WBR Group can offer to clients, particularly SMEs, who are seeking an exit or looking to pass the business down through the family.
WBR Group established a legal services business in November 2023: WBR Law operates from its established offices in Leicester and London, where small, dedicated teams provide clients with personalised legal services.
The firm’s existing leadership, comprised of Alan Simpson, Michael Conlon, and Anne Fendt, each of whom have over 30 years of legal experience, will be further strengthened by Roy’s arrival. The firm already has a strong offering in commercial property law. There is particular emphasis on SSAS pension clients alongside SMEs, larger businesses and clients with property portfolios.
In line with this growth, WBR Law is expanding its team further to include a paralegal, graduate trainee solicitor and administrative support. These additions reflect WBR’s commitment to fostering new talent and continuing to provide high quality legal services to its clients.
WBR Law operates as a separately regulated business under the Solicitors Regulation Authority (SRA), ensuring the highest standards of professional conduct and client care. With the collective expertise of its directors and a clear vision for growth, WBR Law is well positioned to continue serving its clients with distinction.
Tom Moore, CEO of WBR Group, said: “I have known Roy for many years, and I’m delighted he has decided to join us at WBR. His extensive experience in corporate law and his leadership skills will not only enhance our service offering but also position WBR Group as a top choice for businesses seeking comprehensive commercial and related tax advice.
“Our specialised legal services, including commercial property, SSAS and company commercial services, perfectly complement WBR Group’s broader financial and tax advisory expertise, enabling us to offer clients a seamless and integrated solution for all their business needs. We are excited about the future and the continued growth of our talented team.”
Roy Botterill, Director of WBR Law, said: “I am thrilled to join WBR Group at such an exciting time in its development. The firm’s commitment to excellence and its collaborative, client-focused approach aligns perfectly with my own values. I look forward to working with my fellow Directors to further strengthen our service offering and to contribute to the firm’s continued success.”
Northamptonshire entrepreneurs invited to apply for incubation programme
The team at business support hub Vulcan Works are welcoming applications for the second cohort of their successful entrepreneurial incubation programme.
Vulcan Creatives launched earlier this year to support would-be entrepreneurs in Northamptonshire.
The free, six-month programme, funded by West Northamptonshire Council and the UK Shared Prosperity Fund (UKSPF), supports ambitious individuals to create business plans and learn the skills needed to succeed in the world of entrepreneurship.
In the first cohort, 10 businesses were selected to work with Vulcan Works onsite business growth manager Darren Smith to either turn their ideas into viable businesses or grow their fledgling enterprises.
Preference was given to those working in the creative or digital sector – emerging industries in the county that Vulcan Works was created to support. Nine of the participants, including a photographer, app developer, interior designer and a musician, graduated from the programme last month and a special event was held to celebrate their success.
All graduates were helped to secure funding for their businesses and two have taken up workspaces at Vulcan Works to continue their journey.
Those who completed the programme attended a Vulcan Creatives Showcase event to mark their graduation. During the event, each participant gave a presentation about their journey to the specially invited guests.
The second cohort will begin the programme in September, which aims to support a minimum of 40 entrepreneurs in becoming enterprise-ready over the next two years.
Participants must be Northamptonshire residents aged 18 or over and be able to commit to a minimum of two days per week actively engaging in business support and coaching activities.
Those who take part in Vulcan Creatives will also receive free access to the Vulcan Works facilities during the course of the programme and up to 50% off workspace in the building after graduating.
Applications are open now and will close on Friday 6th September.
Darren said: “Vulcan Creatives has already proven itself to be a fantastic way for entrepreneurs to get a helping hand to turn their ideas into reality. The programme has been supported by so many local businesses and individuals to make it as useful and inspirational as possible and the recent graduation of our first cohort shows how successful it has been.
“We are excited to welcome the second cohort of aspiring businesspeople to our ranks, and seeing the programme benefit even more creative visionaries.”
Cllr Daniel Lister, Cabinet Member for Local Economy, Culture and Leisure, said: “It is great news that local businesses are able to apply for the second phase of the Vulcan Creatives programme.
“The project, which is funded by UKSPF, enhances the fantastic support already on offer for local businesses at the Vulcan Works and complements the Council’s commitment to developing our economy.
“This is why we have already put £3 million into supporting local business and £1.5 million into getting local people and skills in the area. We acknowledge that there are skills gaps in our workforce and we need to develop these to enable local companies and entrepreneurs to grow their businesses.
“We want to see businesses thrive and want to support them in doing this. I encourage all businesses able to apply for the Vulcan Creatives scheme to do so immediately and for every local employer to explore the vast number of projects, grants and support we have on offer at West Northamptonshire Council.”
Nominations close on Thursday! Enter the East Midlands Bricks Awards 2024 NOW!
With nominations closing this Thursday (5th September) for East Midlands Business Link’s prestigious Bricks Awards, don’t miss this opportunity to raise the profile of your business by submitting an entry!
Celebrating the region’s property and construction industry, its people, and outstanding developments, the annual awards attract leaders from across the East Midlands and are the perfect way for businesses to promote the work they are completing and create more buzz.
Award categories include: most active estate agent, commercial development of the year, responsible business of the year, residential development of the year, developer of the year, deal of the year, architects of the year, excellence in design, sustainable development of the year, contractor of the year, and overall winner.
A highlight in the business calendar, winners will be revealed at a glittering awards ceremony on Thursday 3rd October (4:30pm – 7:30pm) in the Derek Randall Suite at the famous Trent Bridge Cricket Ground – an evening that will also provide plenty of chances to forge new contacts with property and construction professionals from across the region.
The event will additionally feature Paul Southby, partner at Geldards LLP, chair of the Advisory Board to Nottingham Business School, chair of Broadway independent cinema, trustee of Clean Rivers Trust, chair of Nottingham Partners, board member of Marketing Nottingham and Nottinghamshire, and former High Sheriff of Nottinghamshire, as keynote speaker.
To nominate your (or another) business/development for one of our awards, please click on a category link below or visit this page.
- Most active agent
- Commercial development of the year
- Responsible business of the year
- Residential development of the year
- Developer of the year
- Deal of the year
- Architects of the year
- Excellence in design
- Sustainable development of the year
- Contractor of the year
- Overall winner (this award cannot be entered, with the winner, and recipient of a year of marketing/publicity worth £20,000, selected from those nominated for the event’s other awards)
Nominations end Thursday 5th September
Book your tickets now
Taking place on Thursday 3rd October (4:30pm – 7:30pm) in the Derek Randall Suite at the Trent Bridge Cricket Ground, tickets can now be booked for the East Midlands Bricks Awards 2024 – click here to secure yours. Connect with local decision makers over nibbles and complimentary drinks while applauding the exceptional companies and projects in our region.
Dress code is standard business attire.
Thanks to our sponsors:
To be held at:
Planning permission granted for Leicestershire business park
Planning permission has been granted by Blaby District Council for the development of Stoney Stanton Business Park in Stoney Stanton, Leicestershire.
Stoney Stanton Business Park is being brought forward by Clowes Developments and its team including IMA Architects. FHP Property Consultants and Andrew + Ashwell have been instructed as agents on the scheme.
The business park will see the creation of eight industrial/warehouse buildings, compromising of a combination of terrace and single units. When complete, Stoney Stanton Business Park will feature a range of units from 5,942 sq ft to 28,717 sq ft. All will be available to purchase or rent.
Kevin Webster, Associate Director at Clowes Developments, says: “We are committed to enhancing the local economy and promoting future growth by developing sites that meet the needs of growing businesses. We are thrilled to be finally launching Stoney Stanton Business Park and we look forward to creating a hub for thriving businesses.”
Tim Gilbertson, Director at FHP, adds: “The M69 Corridor, Hinckley and surrounding areas and indeed South Leicester have been crying out for new development for some time. This scheme is ideal for expanding local occupiers as we can offer a range of buildings from as little as 5,900ft² upwards.”
Mike Allwood, Director at Andrew + Ashwell, says: “We are keen to invite early interest from any party looking to purchase or rent space. We see interest coming from companies already based in the area but also those business owners who perhaps live to the south or west of Leicester who want to take advantage of this great location without the daily grind of commuting in along the M69 and M1.”
Nottingham architectural practice expands with collection of new hires
Architectural practice CPMG has expanded its teams in London, Birmingham and Nottingham, contributing to the growth of the next generation and its own presence in the sector.
Strengthening CPMG’s Nottingham headquarters, architectural assistant Ieuan Thomas and Part 1 architectural student Elliot Tiney join the practice to continue their respective journeys in the sector following their studies at the University of Nottingham and Nottingham Trent University.
Elliot is a returning member to CPMG’s growing team, having completed two weeks of work experience with the team in Nottingham earlier this year. Both have had the opportunity to immerse themselves in CPMG’s specialist areas including education and healthcare.
With more than eight years’ experience in the industry, Matthew Drewitt joins the Nottingham team as an architect, with core knowledge areas including the residential, civic, cultural, office and leisure sectors, as well as a key focus on promoting the utilisation of grey belt land in Nottingham.
Matthew said: “Beginning my journey at CPMG seemed like a given, with its open-minded approach to helping the city that it has called home from the very beginning. With this comes the opportunity to work on a range of projects including local and seminal projects, as well as the larger work across the UK that we are becoming increasingly known for.”
Architectural technologist Kebba Barrow joins CPMG’s team in Birmingham and is looking to further his expertise after graduating from the University of Wolverhampton in 2022 with a degree in architectural technology. The focus areas in Kebba’s new role include the technical aspects of projects such as effective cohesion of individual specifications and ensuring compliance with building standards and codes.
Joining the experienced collective at CPMG’s London studio, Amit Patel arrives as a Part 1 architectural assistant, after completing a placement as an architectural assistant at the practice’s Nottingham headquarters before returning to university. Amit is expecting to enhance his expertise through a range of current projects and collaboration with senior architects, engineers and contractors after studying architecture at the University of Loughborough.
Alongside Amit is architectural assistant student Isaac Ma, who has joined the team while studying at the University of Bath. Supporting the practice’s overarching aim of developing skills in the sector, Isaac’s work so far has included exposure to all project stages including early design and construction. He has also developed skills relating to 3D modelling and drawing production.
Speaking on how he is finding his role so far, Isaac said: “There have been a lot of firsts for me so far in my time at CPMG, which have allowed me to reshape my understanding and approach towards design. The experience so far has been incredibly valuable, especially being able to meet such knowledgeable professionals that I can learn from.”
Nick Gregory, director at CPMG and Nottingham office lead, said: “The continued growth we have seen across our Nottingham, London and Birmingham teams is an aspect we are incredibly proud of. It’s a reflection of our own success but is also positive in terms of what it means for our industry.
“Supporting the ongoing development in the sector is crucial, and welcoming enthusiastic individuals in the early stages of their careers is a core element of this, as is supporting the progression of those with experience in the industry that join us.
“By fostering a culture centered around collaboration, and with an incredibly talented team, we’ve been able to secure some remarkable achievements over the past year across both public and private sectors.”
Derby businesses encouraged to apply for innovation and growth grants
Derby businesses are being encouraged to apply for grants and support from a project that is making a difference to the city’s business community.
Since its launch last year, the Derby Accelerator project has provided adviser support to over 370 businesses, with 25 applying for grants and 19 receiving growth vouchers. These initiatives are expected to create 50 new jobs and safeguard 19 existing positions.
Funded by the Government’s UK Shared Prosperity Fund, the Derby Accelerator project is made up of five strands:
- Start-up Accelerator: Providing support for individuals looking to launch their own businesses.
- Net Zero Accelerator: Offering free energy audits and training to help businesses reduce their carbon footprint.
- Digital High Street Accelerator: Connecting businesses with digital technology experts to enhance their online presence.
- Innovation Accelerator: Providing intensive support to high-growth businesses.
- Financial Accelerator: Offering growth vouchers and grants to help businesses invest in training, consultancy, and innovation.
Work completes on new Leicestershire SEND school
A new specialist school for pupils with Social, Emotional, and Mental Health (SEMH) needs has completed in Shepshed, Leicestershire, offering facilities for students aged 4-16 from September 2024.
Bowman Academy, which is situated on the former site of St Botolph’s Primary School, located to the east of Shepshed on Loughborough Road, will see pupils benefit from a range of facilities to suit their needs.
This includes classroom suites with vinyl areas to support practical learning, a sensory ‘dark room’, practical teaching spaces including a domestic kitchen, a library, a calming room, and a main hall with a demountable stage.
The new build SEND school, which has been designed sympathetically to the needs of SEMH learning, has space for 64 pupils, with facilities for 16 primary-aged children across two ground floor classrooms, with the remaining 48 secondary-aged pupils split across two ground floor classrooms, and a further four on the first floor. The first floor also has an additional three classrooms for practical uses.
Pick Everard provided architectural services for main contractor Bowmer + Kirkland, which was procured by the Department for Education (DfE) under the Modern Methods of Construction (MMC1) framework.
Joe West, associate at Pick Everard, said: “Working on SEND schools is always a privilege, with unique design applications and special consideration for the needs of a diverse range of learning.
“Creating an environment that is both functional and comfortable for pupils was central to the aims of the project, which should in turn aid the school in attracting and retaining students in the area.
“The construction technique employed on this project was a fully offsite solution, so thorough sequencing and planning was paramount to ensure all materials were delivered safely and successfully, as well as meeting the highest standards.
“We’re delighted to have worked alongside Bowmer + Kirkland once again to deliver this fantastic academy for pupils in the area with SEMH needs.”
Driving sustainability initiatives, Bowman Academy’s design includes a ‘fabric-first’ approach, which reduces the energy requirements of the building through measures including high levels of insulation, heat recovery and air tightness.
High efficiency boilers have been installed at the school, which will be run by the Community Inclusive Trust (CIT), as well as LED lighting with occupancy and daylight controls for resource management. The building also has glare control and sustainable natural ventilation, providing a low energy cost solution.
Additionally, the site includes a photovoltaic panel array, providing a ten per cent energy consumption offset from renewable technology.
Steve Waldron, Bowmer + Kirkland Contracts Manager, said: “We have been working for the DfE since 2013 and are proud of the 73 schools we have completed, but specialist schools are unique in the enormous difference they make to the pupils and their families.
“We are delighted to continue our relationship with Pick Everard to deliver another fantastic facility which will improve the lives of so many young people.”
Nottingham charity welcomes new Celebrity Ambassador
Nottingham-based charity, Footprints Conductive Education Centre has welcomed Pat Lally as its newest Celebrity Ambassador.
Pat is an actor and voice over artist from Manchester, and has appeared in many films, theatre productions and TV programmes, including Bohemian Rhapsody, Coronation Street, Emmerdale and Hollyoaks.
Pat has supported Footprints for a number of years, including being part of Team Footprints FC charity football matches.
The announcement forms part of the charity’s ambitious plan to grow, enabling it to work with and provide more support to children living with communication and mobility difficulties across the East Midlands, as well as empowering and supporting their families.
It also follows a recent announcement that the charity will soon be relocating to the new Footprints Centre in Clifton.
Footprints’ Business and Charity Manager Stephen Frew said: “We’re so pleased to welcome Pat to the Footprints team as our newest Celebrity Ambassador, especially at such an exciting time for us and everyone we’re connected to. Pat brings his experience and network to our charity and we’re so pleased he will be supporting us.
“By working with Pat, and our fantastic team of ambassadors, we will ensure more people know about Footprints, we can reach more families and form new partnerships.”
East Midlands businesses latest to be targeted by HMRC in National Minimum Wage non-compliance crackdown
Small and medium-sized businesses in the East Midlands are the latest to be targeted as part of HMRC’s crackdown on perceived non-compliance with the National Minimum Wage (NMW).
The tax authority has confirmed that the East Midlands has been added as one of 12 locations being specifically targeted. Businesses found guilty of non-compliance will be ordered to pay NMW arrears to workers in addition to increased National Insurance Contributions (NICs).
If a business does not accept HMRC’s initial offer of a health-check meeting, they also risk financial penalties of up to 200% and public naming and shaming.
Many of these businesses could be inadvertently breaking the rules due to their complexity and common misunderstandings around how to accurately calculate NMW beyond an hourly rate of pay.
HMRC has committed more than £27 million to tackling NMW non-compliance, with regional enforcement being its main focus. Areas are being targeted based on data suggesting a larger volume of workers potentially being paid below the required NMW rate, as well as intelligence gathered such as complaints made by workers in the region.
HMRC is targeting workers paid in excess of £30,000 per annum. Therefore, Azets estimates that more than 50% of the East Midlands’ SMEs could be caught up in the enforcement activity, requiring checks of their business records and hours’ worth of administrative burden, even for compliant companies.
Kyle Newton, Head of National Minimum Wage at Azets UK, the accountancy and advisory firm, said: “Maintaining compliance with National Minimum Wage is commonly misunderstood, with the calculation made up of several components across five core pillars – it is not just an hourly rate of pay. As an employer, unless you understand these pillars and have policies in place to govern and control each, you are at risk of non-compliance.
“From our experience, it is sometimes the case that enforcement is inconsistent with the circumstances of the targeted business, meaning that often HMRC calculations have applied incorrect assumptions.
“With HMRC continually ramping up enforcement and the Government granting the Low Pay Commission further powers to align NMW rates with real living costs, now more than ever there is a greater probability of business facing scrutiny. Employers should take proactive steps to ensure compliance before a letter lands on their desk.”
Many East Midlands-based businesses will receive letters from HMRC as part of a three-stage process.
Targeted businesses will receive an HMRC nudge letter providing a list of common areas that can lead to NMW non-compliance. The next stage is a letter from HMRC offering to perform a free health-check. Failure to take up this offer will result in HMRC opening up a formal enquiry.
Kyle Newton added: “Effectively HMRC is flooding the post code area, using a variety of methods to gather intelligence to aid its enforcement and collection of National Minimum Wage arrears and penalties.
“Additional tactics include targeting workers directly through a series of letters and social media campaigns encouraging them to check their pay and whistle blow if they believe they are paid below the required rate.
“By taking proactive steps to ensure compliance and mitigate risk, businesses will avoid the 200% legal penalties, protect their reputation, and ensure fair treatment of their employees.
“The phased approach gives an employer the opportunity to make corrections without severe penalty, but if you ignore the phase two letter, HMRC has been clear it will enforce and penalise to the full letter of the law.”
East Midlands business confidence falls, but remains above national average
Business confidence in the East Midlands fell 10 points during August to 52%, according to the latest Business Barometer from Lloyds Bank Commercial Banking.
Although East Midlands businesses’ confidence in the economy climbed three points to 53%, their confidence their own business prospects fell 25 points month-on-month to 50%. When taken together these figures give a headline reading of 52% (vs. 62% in July).
Looking ahead to the next six months, businesses in the East Midlands identified their top target areas for growth as investing in their team, for example through training (34%), entering new markets (32%) and evolving their offering, for example by introducing new products or services (31%).
A net balance of 44% of businesses in the region also expect to increase staff levels over the next year – the same proportion as in July.
The Business Barometer, which surveys 1,200 businesses monthly, provides early signals about UK economic trends both regionally and nationwide.
National picture
The East Midlands’ confidence remained above the UK average, which was unchanged from July in August at 50%.
UK firms’ confidence in the overall economy increased two points to 47%, offsetting marginally weaker confidence from businesses in their own trading prospects, which fell two points month-on-month to 54% but remained above the long-term average.
The North East was the most confident UK nation or region in August (65%), followed closely by Scotland (64%).
Sector insights
Output expectations for the various sectors remained at or near their three-year highs. Construction had a steep increase to 58%, up by 14 points, whereas other sectors experienced slight declines. Trading prospects for manufacturing dropped by 2 points to 58%, at the same level as construction, while Retail and Services fell to 53% down 7 and 3 points respectively.
Dave Atkinson, regional director for the Midlands, Lloyds Bank Commercial Banking, said: “East Midlands business confidence remains above the national average – a testament to the steps that companies have taken to manage challenging periods.
“Our local firms have ambitious growth plans for the month ahead, led by investment in their teams – something that could be bolstered by the recent announcement of new green and digital skills courses from North East Derbyshire District Council and Chesterfield Borough Council. Whatever their ambitions, we will continue to be by businesses’ side as they put their plans into action.”
Will you take home the title of Overall Winner and a £20,000 marketing prize at the East Midlands Bricks Awards 2024?
With entries closing next week for Business Link’s prestigious East Midlands Bricks Awards 2024, there’s also a grand prize worth £20,000 up for grabs at the celebration of the region’s property and construction industry – going to the event’s Overall Winner.
While this award cannot be entered, the Overall Winner will be selected from those nominated for the occasion’s 10 other categories and will receive a year of marketing/publicity worth £20,000.
Speaking with Business Link, Chloe Sproston, Creative Director at Blueprint Interiors, the sponsor of Overall Winner, shared: “We’ve been involved in the awards since 2019 either as an award nominee or a sponsor. We continue to be impressed with both the quality of award submissions, but also the event, which attracts the elite of our region’s construction and property professionals.
“This year, we’re particularly excited to sponsor the Overall Winner category, further demonstrating our commitment to showcasing the very best talent in the region’s property and construction industry.”
Nominations for the event are open, and now is the perfect time to make your submissions, ahead of the deadline (Thursday 5th September).
To nominate your (or another) business/development for one of our awards, please click on a category link below or visit this page.
Award categories include:
- Most active agent
- Commercial development of the year
- Responsible business of the year
- Residential development of the year
- Developer of the year
- Deal of the year
- Architects of the year
- Excellence in design
- Sustainable development of the year
- Contractor of the year
- Overall winner (this award cannot be entered, with the winner, and recipient of a year of marketing/publicity worth £20,000, selected from those nominated for the event’s other awards)
Nominations end Thursday 5th September
A glittering awards ceremony revealing winners will take place on Thursday 3rd October (4:30pm – 7:30pm) in the Derek Randall Suite at the famous Trent Bridge Cricket Ground, also offering the ideal opportunity to forge new contacts with property and construction professionals from across the region. The event will additionally feature Paul Southby, partner at Geldards LLP, chair of the Advisory Board to Nottingham Business School, chair of Broadway independent cinema, trustee of Clean Rivers Trust, chair of Nottingham Partners, board member of Marketing Nottingham and Nottinghamshire, and former High Sheriff of Nottinghamshire, as keynote speaker. Tickets can now be booked for the East Midlands Bricks Awards 2024 – click here to secure yours. Connect with local decision makers over nibbles and complimentary drinks while applauding the outstanding companies and projects in our region.
Dress code is standard business attire.
Thanks to our sponsors:
To be held at:
Ground-breaking ceremony marks next phase of major Castleward regeneration
Construction work has officially commenced on the fourth phase of the major Castleward development in Derby city centre, where a further 112 new homes will be delivered.
Regeneration specialist Compendium Living, Derby City Council, housing developer Lovell Partnerships and Homes England celebrated the occasion with a breaking-ground ceremony on the brownfield site.
Castleward is a £100 million development and one of the city’s largest housing projects, situated between Derbion shopping centre and Derby Midland Station. In total, the scheme will provide around 700 new homes, as well as green space and nearly 35,000 square feet of commercial retail space. It is a long-term placemaking project, being delivered over a period of 15 to 20 years.
The fourth phase of Castleward will be close to Liversage Square and split over two sites, one located on Canal Street providing 62 homes and one on John Street with 50 homes. The development will consist of a range of two and three-bedroom houses and one and two-bedroom apartments.
The properties will be a mix of 78 open market sale homes and 34 affordable homes. Work on phase four is expected to be completed in early 2027.
Bruce Lister, Managing Director at Compendium Living, said: “Castleward is a hugely significant development, both for us at Compendium Living and for the people of Derby, and we couldn’t be happier to have commenced work on our fourth phase.
“Phase one of Castleward commenced over a decade ago and I am so proud of the bustling, vibrant community that has grown here in that time. To now be breaking ground on phase four is an incredible milestone, and we are looking forward to adding to our previous success and welcoming more residents into their new homes.
“We are committed to delivering this next phase to the same high standards, as we continue to breath a new lease of life into this brownfield site.”
Cllr Nadine Peatfield, Leader of Derby City Council, said: “It’s great to see work beginning on this latest phase of the Castleward Urban Village and I’m delighted to attend this groundbreaking ceremony with key partners behind the project.
“This development is a key part of our work to transform our city centre into a vibrant and attractive place to live, work and visit. Already we’ve seen hundreds of people call the area home and have created a new gateway between the city centre and the railway station.
“I’m looking forward to seeing the new homes take shape over the coming months and seeing more residents make the switch to city centre living.”
Derby retail unit sold for £1.3 million
Midlands property agency Bond Wolfe has secured the £1.3 million sale of a unit on Derby’s Southgate Retail Park to Connect Derby Properties Ltd.
The modern retail unit has The Gym Group as its long-term tenant on a reversionary lease until 20 March 2031.
As a result, the 11,643 sq ft purpose-built unit is currently generating a passing rent of £97,344 per annum exclusive, representing a low £8.36 per square foot.
The Gym Group has leased the unit since 2011. Southgate comprises 48,000 sq ft of retail space, anchored by a Lidl store.
Clark Brookes Turner Cary Solicitors in West Bromwich acted for the seller and Elliot Matther in Derby advised Connect Derby Properties Ltd.
James Mattin, managing director agency at Birmingham-based Bond Wolfe, said: “We are pleased to announce the sale of this key retail investment on Southgate retail Park.
“The property went under offer very quickly after being released to the market, which demonstrates further evidence of the demand for these types of assets from the private investor market.
“We are shortly releasing a number of similar opportunities in the area and would be pleased to discuss specific requirements from investors looking for opportunities.”
Streets Chartered Accountants continues run of mergers
Preston-based Turner Accountants has merged with Lincolnshire’s Streets Chartered Accountants, seeing the establishment of Streets Turner Chartered Accountants.
This latest merger is one of more than seven that Streets Chartered Accountants have completed in 18 months and which has seen the practice grow, now with more than 27 offices and fee income over £35 million.
Mike Turner, Managing Director at Turner Accountants, said: “I am delighted and excited about the merger. The practice was founded in 1996 by myself and over the years it has grown based on our reputation and the demands of clients in and around Preston.
“As with any business we cannot stand still and to overcome the challenges we and our clients face, we needed to develop our business. We looked for some time to find a perfect partner to support us and one with which we share mutual values and we believe we have found that in Streets.
“Certainly, there is a great match, both in terms of client focus and cultural fit. The merger has also given us the opportunity to promote three, highly valued, members of the team, Henry Abell, Lynda Rainford and Catherine Clifton to directors.
“Now that Turners is part of a larger practice, we can confidently promise greater continuity of service to our clients and improved career prospects for our team.
“We also believe that our clients will benefit in that the combined firm will be able to offer a wider range of services including areas of specialist corporate and private client tax planning, banking and finance, international advice, personal financial planning and even a virtual finance office whilst still retaining those personal relationships.
“As a result of the merger, we are also now able to undertake statutory audits for larger clients, as well as businesses and organisations across Preston.”
Streets Chartered Accountants’ Managing Partner, Paul Tutin, said: “In line with our strategy to become a truly UK practice we are looking at and working with a number of firms looking to become part of Streets. The merger of Turner Accountants in Preston is the latest in line with our plans to expand our geographical coverage and provides us with an ideal presence in Lancashire.
“We were delighted to enter into a conversation with Mike Turner and his team at Turner Accountants. Very early on in our discussions it was clear that we shared the same vision and values for the profession and for supporting our clients.
“We are really looking forward to working with Mike, Henry, Catherine and Lynda to grow the practice and to further establish it as a pre-eminent accountancy, business and tax advisory firm servicing the needs of businesses and individuals across Lancashire and the North West.
“Looking ahead with a number of further mergers and acquisitions in the pipeline which include a number of practices across the UK, we are on track to achieve our target revenue of £40m by the end of the year.
“The profession is going through significant consolidation with heightened levels of merger and acquisition. In contrast to many our approach seeks to build on the success of merging firms, ensuring we retain and build on their winning approach. An approach we believe is particularly liked by many of those looking to exit routes, the challenge of growing their practice or facing increased competition and the need to widen their service offering.”
Streets Law, Streets Chartered Accountants’ dedicated corporate and commercial law offering led by Managing Director and Solicitor, Adam Aisthorpe, undertook the legal work on Streets Chartered Accountants’ behalf for the merger, including drafting the sale and purchase agreement and dealing with the due diligence process in collaboration with internal colleagues in tax and audit teams.
