Precept cook up a storm by volunteering at YMCA Derbyshire

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Precept cook up a storm by volunteering at YMCA Derbyshire

Volunteers from a Derby company swapped their pens for serving spoons when they cooked up lunches for the community.

HR & Employment company Precept – part of the Barron McCann group – took part in the YMCA Derbyshire Community Meal which, in collaboration with local mental health charity Head High, gives local businesses and community groups the opportunity to provide a nourishing meal for people who might be feeling isolated.

They served traditional Australian pie, mash and peas followed by Lamingtons – a butter cake coated in an outer layer of chocolate sauce and rolled in desiccated coconut that is popular Down Under – to mark Australia Day. Precept staff also donned comedy hats decorated with miniature corks, and themed the dining room accordingly.

More than 100 people attended the event at the YMCA, in London Road, which is aimed at combatting loneliness, a major cause of mental health problems amongst adults.

Also enjoying lunch were members of YMCA in Capetown, who were visiting the city to hear of the successful projects that their counterparts in Derby have been involved with. Pictures of the day were also sent to the YMCA in Australia to showcase celebrations of their national day.

As well as supporting the YMCA’s Community Meal, Precept are also Derby County Community Trust partners and donate to the Mortgage Advice Bureau Foundation. They support S.H.E. UK, too; a charity based in Nottinghamshire that offers support for survivors of childhood sexual abuse, exploitation and sexual violence. 

Rob Tice, Managing Director of Precept, said: “When we heard about the community meal, we thought that it would be a great way of supporting the YMCA in a practical way. We had some guidance about quantities – we have never cooked for such large numbers before – and staff at the YMCA were really helpful.”

Emma Tice, who is Head of HR & Employment Law at the firm – and who had spent 11-and-a-half-hours preparing the Lamingtons the day before – said: “We wanted to bring a bit of fun to the day, and I think we certainly did that.

“Precept will certainly be joining forces with the YMCA again and we’re currently exploring how the partnership can be developed.”

Rob added: “We found it hard work but a great team-building exercise and we all found it very rewarding. The best part, for me, was meeting and spending time with the people who attended the lunch. We’d highly recommend that other community groups and businesses get involved.”

University of Nottingham spin-out company will develop rapid diagnostic kits for people with cystic fibrosis

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University of Nottingham spin-out company will develop rapid diagnostic kits for people with cystic fibrosis
People with cystic fibrosis will be able to test themselves at home for a common bacterium that can lead to a dangerous infection, thanks to a new diagnostic kit developed by experts from the University of Nottingham. The creation of a spin-out company, that will eventually manufacture the diagnostic kits, has been made possible thanks to the award of an Innovate UK-funded ICURe (Innovation to Commercialisation of University Research) Exploit grant, which has enabled the experts to turn their research into a market-ready business. This grant followed a successful Biofilms ICURe Sprint grant in partnership with the National Biofilms Innovation Centre (NBIC). ICURe is a programme of market discovery whereby early career researchers can establish if there is a commercial market for their research, science, or technology. It essentially offers them time ‘out of the lab’ to speak to potential customers, partners, and investors to validate the commercial potential of their innovation. At the end of this process, a panel known as the ‘options roundabout’ will recommend the best commercialisation pathway – that could include carrying out further research, exploring licensing opportunities or seeking funding for spinning out the business.
The University spin-out company, called MiDx Ltd, will be headed by Dr Shaun N Robertson from the School of Life Sciences at the University of Nottingham. He has led the commercialisation efforts alongside Professor Miguel Cámara who has developed a simple, specific, and non-invasive diagnostic test to enable the rapid detection of Pseudomonas aeruginosa (P.a.) in people with cystic fibrosis partly through funding from NBIC and Cystic Fibrosis Trust. Cystic fibrosis is a genetic disease that affects around 11,000 people in the UK, and over 160,000 globally. One of the most important bugs that causes infections in people with cystic fibrosis, is P.a. – a bacterium that is present everywhere, but rarely has negative effects on people with healthy lungs. For people with cystic fibrosis this bacterium can be deadly, and it is the leading cause of decline in lung health, compromising people’s quality of life. There is a pressing need for a straightforward, precise, and non-invasive diagnostic approach to identify P.a. during initial pulmonary infections, allowing for quicker and more straight-forward medical intervention. MiDx has pinpointed biomarkers unique to P.a., aiming to use them for the creation of an uncomplicated, cost-effective, and precise Point of Care diagnostic test for early detection of this pathogen. Dr Shaun N Robertson from the School of Life Sciences said: “Through our research, we have developed clinically validated unique biomarkers of P.a. infection, patented their use and generated antibodies against them with high sensitivity and excellent specificity. This has enabled us to develop a lateral flow test which people with cystic fibrosis will be able to perform themselves at home. “Thanks to our work with ICURe, and follow-on funding, we have been able to lay the foundations for this new spin-out, where we can now look at getting this test to market. We have also found significant scope for growth into other conditions where a lateral flow device for P.a. would be of interest, principally in non-CF bronchiectasis and Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease.” The team from Nottingham are part of the SETsquared-delivered ICURe Exploit cohort, which have been also successful in securing follow-on funding of £300,000, to turn their biofilms-related innovations into world-leading spin-outs. Dr Lucy Allen, Director of Research and Healthcare data at Cystic Fibrosis Trust, said: “A quick and simple test to detect Pseudomonas aeruginosa could be game-changing for those with cystic fibrosis, so we’re delighted the Trust’s early support for this research has moved it a step closer to commercialisation. Rapid detection will allow for swifter treatment, preventing further long-term lung damage.”

Derby leader opens new Kia Academy

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Derby leader opens new Kia Academy
The leader of Derby City Council, Councillor Baggy Shanker, has opened the new Kia Academy in Derby, as part of National Apprenticeship Week. The Kia Academy is a purpose-built 40,000 square foot building in St. Mowden Park, Derby. The new academy will equip students with key skills and knowledge to forge a career in the automotive industry. The building has been created to facilitate advanced electrical training as well as upskilling apprentices and adult learners. The academy has opened during National Apprenticeship Week to emphasise the company’s dedication to training and nurturing new talent. Councillor Baggy Shanker, Leader of Derby City Council, said: “I started my career as an apprentice engineer in Derby over 30 years ago, so it was a great honour to have been invited to open this fantastic new training facility. Kia has chosen to invest in Derby and its people, bringing its innovative approach and leadership in electrification to the region. “Training, technical skills, and innovation have always been at the heart of Derby, and we look forward to and welcome the successful unification between Kia and the area. I am excited to see the future of the automotive industry upskill, learn and thrive in Derby.” Paul Philpott, President & CEO of Kia UK Limited, said: “We are delighted to officially open the all-new Kia Academy here in the heart of Derbyshire. I would like to offer my gratitude to Councillor Shanker for opening this exciting facility, which will be the home for all Kia apprentices and adult-learners. “As the automotive industry advances with electrification at its heart, we continue to highlight the importance of technical training and apprenticeships. These students will become the industry-leaders of the future and form the backbone of Kia. “I am excited to see how the Kia Academy grows over the coming years and watch as it engages and educates the next generation of Kia experts. Having first launched our apprenticeship programme 19 years ago, the all-new Kia Academy marks the next confident step in our journey to becoming a leading provider in sustainable mobility.”

Report recommends proposals needed to balance Nottingham City Council budget

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Report recommends proposals needed to balance Nottingham City Council budget
Draft budget proposals put forward to close a £50m funding gap in 2024/25 will be discussed by Nottingham City Council’s Executive Board next week. In a report to the Board on 13 February, officers have recommended that the council will need to go ahead with the budget savings initially set out in December last year to ensure its continued financial sustainability. All councils are legally required to set a balanced budget each year. The recommendation has been made following confirmation from the Government in its Local Government Settlement of how much funding councils will receive in the next financial year. The council has also now been issued with new statutory instructions by the Improvement and Assurance Board currently overseeing the authority which mean it has a legal duty to maximise the savings brought forward as part of the budget-setting process in order to minimise the amount it requires in Exceptional Financial Support from Government. Like councils across the country, Nottingham is facing significant budget pressures due to the cost of increased demand for children’s and adults’ social care and rising homelessness. Exceptional Financial Support of up to £40m is being sought from the Government to address the budget gap for 2024/25 and up to £25m for the overspend forecast in the current year which led to the issuing of a Section 114 report by the council’s Chief Finance Officer and the introduction of spending controls. Public consultation took place on the budget proposals in December and January via an on-line survey and a range of engagement events. Views were received from over 5,400 people with the most comments received on the following proposals:
  • Introduction of a charge for public toilets
  • Introduction of a charge for garden waste bins
  • Increases to Council Tax and Adult Social Care precept
  • Reduction of public transport infrastructure
  • Review of Library Services
There are some changes included in the Executive Board report which mitigate the original proposals relating to public transport.
  • Current link bus services will be retained by using alternative funding sources. Funding for the Medilink service will be removed from April 2025, but in the meantime the council will work with the NHS Trust to develop an alternative operating model for the service.
  • Public transport infrastructure, including Park & Ride sites, will be retained by using alternative funding sources, subject to review in the wider region and the emerging Combined Authority from 2025/26.
  • Concessionary fares will be reviewed in conjunction with the wider region and the emerging Combined Authority to ensure a consistency of approach. Efficiencies will be created within smart ticketing and the removal Robin Hood ticket machines.
Insight and learning from the consultation process will be used in the design phase and to mitigate impact where possible in the implementation of proposals. Additional targeted consultation will be required on some of the proposals based on more detailed proposed delivery models. The council’s final budget will be set at a meeting of all city councillors on 4 March.

Chesterfield firms urged to access skills support to grow town’s economy

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Chesterfield firms urged to access skills support to grow town’s economy

Businesses across Chesterfield have been told they must act today to futureproof their businesses and the town’s economy, by ensuring their staff are receiving the relevant training and skills.

The Chesterfield Employability and Skills Conference (Thursday, 8th February 2024) was hosted in partnership by Chesterfield Borough Council and Destination Chesterfield.

The event at the Winding Wheel Theatre in the heart of the town introduced a new wave of support for firms in the area, signposting businesses to relevant schemes which will help them to upskill and reskill their staff. Attendees at the event were given the chance to meet with representatives from the following organisations:

·       Chesterfield Borough Council, Skills Brokerage Service

·       Chesterfield College

·       Derbyshire BAME Forum

·       Direct Education Business Partnership

·       University of Derby

·       D2N2 Careers Hub/D2N2 LEP

·       Derbyshire County Council/National Careers Service

·       North East Derbyshire District Council

·       Department for Work and Pensions

·       Auto Windscreens, owned by Markerstudy Group

·       East Midlands Railway

The call for businesses to access this support comes as firms in some of the town’s key sectors say they are finding difficulties in filling vacancies with suitable skilled people.

The latest East Midlands Chamber Quarterly Economic Survey showed that more than 70% of businesses in the region are struggling to fill vacancies, with skilled manual or technical roles proving the most challenging. Industries such as construction, manufacturing, engineering, digital and health & social care are just some of the sectors which Chesterfield Borough Council aims to support with workforce growth.

To address those challenges, Chesterfield’s new skills brokerage gives businesses in the borough the opportunity to gain free, impartial, bespoke advice to support them to access funding, alongside connecting companies to training and development opportunities.

The full range of services offered includes:

·       Access a range of fully funded courses to upskill the workforce, ranging from basic skills and business fundamentals to leadership and management, green and digital skills.

·       Accessing a variety of funding streams.

·       Support to employ Apprentices, including how to access apprenticeship funding and information around the apprenticeship levy.

·       Recruitment and retention advice.

·       Succession planning.

·       Advice and continued support.

Michael Timmins, Director at AECOM and Chair of the Chesterfield Skills and Employment Partnership, said: “It was fantastic to see so many businesses in attendance at the Employability and Skills Conference.

“We know that firms across our area are concerned about the future of their workforces, so it is extremely important that we continue to highlight the support that is out there. I would urge businesses of all sizes to make the most of the assistance available.

“We must all work together to secure the future growth of Chesterfield and ensure that our workforce has the right skills and abilities to meet future challenges.”

Cllr Tricia Gilby, Leader of Chesterfield Borough Council and Vice Chair of the Chesterfield Skills and Employment Partnership, said: “We work closely with a wide range of partners to help local people develop the skills that businesses need both now and in the future, which in turn will help ensure everyone can benefit from a growing local economy.

“Our Skills Brokerage service aims to help businesses access the funding and the information they need to deliver skills development programmes for their employees, but this is just one of the initiatives we have launched that aim to help businesses based in our borough to grow.

“If you are running a business in Chesterfield, please contact our team directly to find out more about the support available to you.”

Chesterfield Borough Council’s Skills Brokerage Service is benefiting from funding through the UKSPF, after the council was successful in securing £2.6m from the Government. It will fund initiatives up to April 2025, which are designed to improve life for local people and support local businesses.

Leicester Arena gets new name in recognition of support from charitable trust

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Leicester Arena gets new name in recognition of support from charitable trust

The largest indoor arena in Leicester will now be known as the Mattioli Arena.

It comes after the Ian & Clare Mattioli Charitable Trust accepted an offer of naming rights to Leicester Arena.

The venue – previously the Morningside Arena – is currently being rebranded.

The Trust has donated funds to the Leicester Riders Foundation, the charity which develops basketball and other sport participation for people of all ages across Leicester and Leicestershire.

The generosity of the Mattioli family has resulted in the Trust being offered naming rights, in recognition of their continued support.

Recent donations from the Trust are in addition to the £500,000 donation made to help fund the Arena’s extension in 2022.

The Arena team will work with the family to create a lasting legacy gifted to communities in Leicester and Leicestershire.

The Trust – established by the Mattioli family in 2016 – works to help enhance the lives and opportunities of local people.

In particular it works with communities and socio-economic groups which are often sidelined and which struggle to access opportunities for advancement, personal growth, and to fully participate in society.

Ian Mattioli MBE, founder of the Trust and CEO of Mattioli Woods PLC, said: “We are delighted to continue our support of the Arena, and are proud to accept the naming rights.

“The Mattioli Arena delivers high-quality and high-class events, while at the same time focussing on its community commitments and increasing the profile of the city.

“Leicester has always looked after our family in the very safest of environments and that is why we are delighted to be part of creating a legacy for the diverse communities we support in the City of Leicester and beyond.

“To also be able to do this through sport and a venue that has the potential to impact so many people is something we will continue to take great pride in, and we hope it will be used by many, many people over coming years.”

Kevin Routledge, Chairman of Leicester Riders, Trustee of Leicester Riders Foundation, and a Director of the Arena, said: “Once again, Ian and Clare Mattioli Charitable Trust has shown its commitment to the city and the work of our Foundation, and the Mattioli Arena, and we are hugely appreciative of that.

“The work of the Riders Foundation, and the demands on the Arena, continue to grow and we are committed to further enhancements to our facilities.

“We are hugely appreciative to the Mattioli family’s generous support, which will enable us to deliver an arena, community services, and events that will continue to make the city proud.”

The 3,000-capacity Mattioli Arena stages an increasingly wide range of national and international sports and entertainment events.

It also provides a wide range of community sports opportunities through the Riders’ extensive underage basketball programmes through the Leicester Riders Foundation.

The venue also provides opportunities for Leicester College students, wheelchair basketball users, and other community sport users – making it the largest of its type in the UK.

Last year’s extension to the Arena is already bringing significant additional revenue to the city. It consists of a standalone, 1,200-metre squared, two-court sports hall, with a new entrance to the arena also completed at the top of Memory Lane.

It also has the largest solar array on any individual building in the city, generating 246 kW(p) of solar power and helping the Arena towards becoming a Net Zero business.

SMEs to focus on workforce stability in 2024 amid ongoing economic pressures says barometer

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SMEs to focus on workforce stability in 2024 amid ongoing economic pressures says barometer

Workforce stability is the main focus for SMEs in 2024, despite ongoing economic pressures and an uncertain climate, according to the latest barometer from people experts HR Solutions.

The results of the fourth annual SME Business Survey from the HR specialists were revealed at Your Business Expo at Sywell Aerodrome.

More than half of respondents (54%) said their biggest business issue this year is recession and cost of living, with 47% citing recruitment as a problem and 39% worried about bringing in new business.

Yet less than a quarter of those surveyed plan to make any redundancies, instead putting an emphasis on efficient resource management.

And with half troubled by maintaining profitability and 56% concerned about controlling costs, there is little surprise that 53% plan to focus on cost reduction in order to maintain workforce stability and make better use of resources.

Recruitment and employee retention were also revealed to be pressing issues, driven by competitive job markets and the expansion of the talent pool due to remote working. A worried 45% of SMEs are concerned about the need for wage adjustments in line with inflation, 52% believe employee retention is a key issue and 38% are concerned about talent attraction.

In response, SMEs are rightly prioritising employee engagement and HR Solutions recommends that business owners focus on creating an attractive workplace culture that values diversity, encourages open communication, and promotes work-life balance.

A strong company culture not only supports employee retention but also makes the organisation more attractive to potential employees.

The fieldwork for the survey took place at the end of 2023 and the company surveyed businesses that fall into the SME bracket across multiple industries, including manufacturing, aerospace and defence, agriculture, construction and engineering, education, electronics, healthcare, retail, professional services, hospitality, finance, energy, insurance, property, and pharmaceuticals.

CEO Greg Guilford said: “With our survey now in its fourth year, we can see a clear shift in the mindset of SMEs. Financial performance and securing new business will naturally remain at the forefront of owner directors’ minds, but as we know with the cost-of-living crisis and fears of a recession, finances continue to be a top priority.

“We use the results of our survey to provide the best possible specific support, advice and resources for SME business owners to use to overcome these challenges. It is important that SMEs look inwards, and ensure they have the right staff in place. They must also review internal processes to streamline and reduce inefficiencies.

“We would also implore that business owners look at the resources and seminars we have on offer for all the support they need in tackling these issues. Strategic planning and innovative thinking is the most effective way to increasing turnover this year.”

Continued expansion for pet treats manufacturer

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Continued expansion for pet treats manufacturer
Commercial property agents and consultants, Salloway, have let a 7,750 sq ft industrial unit to Pet Treats Wholesale Ltd. Unit 6, Crown Industrial Estate is located at Anglesey Rd, Burton upon Trent, and provides a larger packing and fulfilment provision for Pet Treats’ continued business growth. Business founder and owner, Dominic Jolivet said: “Pet Treats has its roots firmly established in Burton upon Trent. From humble beginnings using just a single oven, to becoming the largest manufacturer of gourmet sausages for dogs in the UK, Pet Treats Wholesale Ltd. has been supplying treats to dogs (and their owners) since 2011. “We manufacture our range of sausages, sticks, slices, and pate, as well as many of our dried natural products, using British meat, right here in our factory in Staffordshire. For everything else, we only work with trusted UK and EU suppliers, to ensure your pets are getting the very best natural treats. “We sell to members of the public directly from our website and store, as well as to trade and wholesale customers, including large companies with multiple stores nationwide.” Director, Louis Jolivet added: “Due to our continued growth, we needed to find a larger unit to house our packing and fulfilment part of the business. Personal thanks to Simon – local Salloway agent, for alerting me to this unit as it was coming to market and for the speed in which lease matters were progressed. From initially viewing the unit to taking occupation, the whole process took just 6 weeks!” Salloway commercial agency surveyor, Simon Walker said: “Timing was crucial for this lease deal to happen, and all parties are extremely happy that letting terms were agreed and matters concluded very swiftly. “It is always a joy to witness continued success and growth with any local business in the area and I am delighted that Unit 6 Crown Industrial Estate was a very suitable and timely property solution to be able to provide to Pet Treats.”

Study highlights staffing challenges faced by rural Peak District businesses

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Study highlights staffing challenges faced by rural Peak District businesses
Rural businesses in the Derbyshire Peak District are facing significant challenges in recruiting and retaining staff due to a combination of global and national influences, and place-specific factors, according to a new study led by researchers at the University of Derby. Undertaken with employers and employees in the Derbyshire Peak District, the study has led to the researchers making a number of key recommendations for changes to policy that need to take place to support rural businesses in the region and encourage people to work in the area. The study, Exploring Identity, Place and Worker Attraction and Retention in Rural Businesses, was funded by the National Innovation Centre for Rural Enterprise (NICRE). It was led by Carley Foster, Professor of Services Marketing and Head of the Centre for Business Improvement at the University of Derby, working with Dr Susan Kirk, Reader in International Human Resource Management at Newcastle University Business School. Professor Foster explained: “The Peak District has so much to offer in the way of ‘natural capital’ – it’s a beautiful place to live and work, which is something that isn’t exploited enough. We think there is lots more to do to promote the Peak District as a place to work as a way of encouraging people to move to the region to work and enjoy these lovely surroundings.” Despite being located in the middle of England, surrounded by large cities like Derby, Sheffield and Manchester, the region’s businesses face a number of challenges in recruiting and retaining skilled staff. These include:
  • The impacts of Covid and Brexit, with people opting for hybrid or work-at-home arrangements, and reduced availability of workers from Europe
  • Lack of skills in certain sectors, including hospitality, the visitor economy and in specialist roles
  • Demographic challenges, with young people tending to move out of the area, reducing the size of the local labour market
  • Cost and availability of public transport, and the cost of housing in areas where there is a lot of second home ownership
Dr Kirk said: “Some employers are implementing initiatives to mitigate the challenges. For example, they adapt their employment packages to appeal to different people at different life stages and this is something we would encourage. But there’s much more that needs to be done to address the challenges, at a regional and national level.” The researchers’ recommendations include:
  • Positive promotion of the Derbyshire Peak District as a place to work
  • Emphasis on the value of different occupations in sectors like hospitality, and the importance of apprenticeships for small businesses in addressing skills gaps and retaining younger workers
  • Employers and business support organisations working together to creatively tackle some of the shared issues, such as transport shortages
  • Lobbying for improved public transport and more affordable housing
The team’s research has been supported by both the Peak District Partnership and Business Peak District. Dr Peter Dewhurst, who chairs both organisations, said: “This research investigation highlights some significant challenges that Business Peak District is working with others to address. In doing so we are looking to ensure that businesses across the Peak District are no longer at a competitive disadvantage to their urban counterparts.” One early positive outcome has seen the research being used in a successful £15 million Levelling Up ‘Ashbourne Reborn’ bid, led by Derbyshire Dales District Council. This two-year development project will transform Ashbourne town centre.

Derbyshire narrowboat manufacturer unlocks growth

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Derbyshire narrowboat manufacturer unlocks growth

An Ashbourne-based narrowboat builder is expanding into a new premises thanks to financial support from HSBC UK.

Oakums Narrowboats will use a £881,000 funding package to purchase a new 14,000 sq ft property in Carsington Water. The additional space will increase the business’s capacity by 350 per cent, expanding its manufacturing capability and enabling the business to build seven boats at once, compared to two currently. The funding has also streamlined operations by facilitating the import of key boat parts from overseas.

The newly acquired premises will support Oakums to fulfil its ever-growing order book and reduce its waiting list. With half of the business’s customers based overseas, the funding will also facilitate further international growth for the business.

The funding package allows the business to continue its fast revenue growth, which has doubled year-on-year since the business was founded in 2019. Oakums has already reached £1.4 million of revenue in the past three months and is now anticipating annual revenue to increase to £6 million as a direct result of the expansion.

Liam Hainsworth, director at Oakums Narrowboats, said: “This funding marks a significant milestone and empowers us to embark on a new era of expansion and innovation within our industry.

“This is a strategic leap forward for us and paints a positive outlook for our future operations. Oakums has flourished from a personal hobby to a dynamic workforce of 14 skilled builders, and the banking team’s support has been instrumental in achieving this transformative growth.”

Mark Greasley, relationship manager at HSBC UK, added: “We’re dedicated to ensuring small businesses and enterprises can thrive both domestically and globally. Oakums has created a business model that we’re excited to get behind, and we couldn’t be more pleased to be able to support the company as it continues to grow.”

Founded by former architect Liam Hainsworth, Oakums Narrowboats manufactures luxury narrowboats for private sale. The business specialises in modern ‘Rosie and Jim’ style boats, and its core customer base includes holiday homes for international customers and houseboats for UK-based customers.

Trio of lettings secured at Leicestershire business park

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Trio of lettings secured at Leicestershire business park
Three Leicestershire businesses have secured new industrial premises at Armston Farm, Cosby after property consultancy, Wells McFarlane negotiated a trio of lettings. Fox County Ltd, Fuses Electrical and Magna Manufacturing will all now be based at the South Leicestershire business park as they look to facilitate expansion. “Our business provides servicing and repair for leisure vehicles, specifically motorhomes and caravans but also horse boxes and trailers,” explains Fox County’s Managing Director, Jak Yeates. “Our work is predominantly workshop appointments or home visits so we needed a premises that was well connected and easily accessible. “Armston Farm is within easy reach of many of the surrounding villages as well as the M1, M69 and A5. The move means we’re able to work indoors, so we can now work all year round and on multiple vehicles at the same time. This has also led us to hire another service technician and offer parts supply via a small shop so it’s been hugely positive.” Bespoke joinery firm, Magna Manufacturing is hoping for similar growth at Unit A2, a 1,263 sq ft warehouse. Director Paul Leaver says: “We’d previously shared an old factory in Blaby with another company but when they decided not to renew the lease, we started to explore alternative options. “The unit at Armston Farm offered so much potential. It means we can have an open workshop and increase our team, but also allows us to build a mezzanine floor for a small office from where we can run our accounts and project management. Wells McFarlane were absolutely spot on to work with, we’re grateful for their support.” Wells McFarlane’s commercial asset manager, Tina Flynn negotiated all three lettings. She concludes: “It’s always pleasing to help tenants find their ideal premises, especially when it’s to support business growth and future success but securing a hat trick of new neighbours like this is definitely unusual! “Rural business parks like Armston Farm remain popular as business owners aspire to move to more strategic and sustainable locations. We anticipate this level of demand to continue across the Midlands so encourage interested tenants or landlords with similar properties to get in touch.”

Health and safety consultancy appoints new operations manager

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Health and safety consultancy appoints new operations manager
Independent health and safety consultancy, Acorn Safety Services has appointed Zeynep Guzelkasap as the company’s new operations manager. Health and safety expert, Zeynep, joined the company as business manager in January 2023 having started her career in the asbestos industry 13 years ago. Since joining Acorn Safety Services, Zeynep has been instrumental in the continued growth of the company, establishing herself as a high-skilled professional with a wealth of experience in construction management. She said: “I’m delighted to be taking on this new role at Acorn Safety Services, particularly at such an exciting time for the business. “Acorn Safety Services continues to grow. We recently moved into new, much larger offices, and we are looking to add to the wide range of services we offer to our clients, particularly when it comes to important areas such as legionella and fire safety. “Personally, as a mum of two young children and a woman in an industry which has been traditionally very male-dominated, I am thrilled to have been given the opportunity to take on this senior role as well as the support I need to grow my career.”

Ford & Stanley secures two-year Gemini Rail partnership

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Ford & Stanley secures two-year Gemini Rail partnership
Derby talent services specialist, Ford & Stanley Group has been awarded the exclusive recruitment partnership for Gemini Rail Services, one of the UK’s leading rolling stock maintenance and overhaul businesses. The recruitment provision and partnership will utilise all three recruitment businesses within the Ford & Stanley Group – Ford & Stanley TalentWise, Ford & Stanley Recruitment and Ford & Stanley Executive Search. The two-year deal will see Ford & Stanley provide white-collar and executive search talent solutions, underpinning the rail firm’s ambition and strategy in an exciting few years ahead. Director Dan Taylor, alongside Head of Sales Jon Levers of Ford & Stanley, who worked closely with Gemini Rail Services stakeholders on the designing of a partnership bespoke to specific business needs, said: “We could not be more excited to start 2024 with confirmation of this new partnership. “With less money being invested in the building of new trains, it is expected there will be an increase in demand for modification and fleet improvement. With this upturn in the overhaul market, there has never been a more opportunistic time for those both in rail seeking an exciting career move and those from transferable industries to consider a career within UK rail industry. “We’re thrilled to be working with such an established and well-respected business as Gemini Rail which draws on its rich rail heritage and deep-rooted culture of innovation spanning over a century. We look forward to help supporting Gemini Rail Services in becoming an employer of choice in the UK Rail industry.” Gemma Smithson, Head of HR at Gemini Rail Services, said: “We are delighted to cement our existing relationship with Ford & Stanley – it is a logistical step in the longstanding relationship that exists between our two businesses.” Sean Forster, recently appointed COO of Gemini Rail Services, added: “We have an exciting few years ahead which comes with a pressing need to secure the best talent from a ‘noisy and competitive’ candidate market. “Ford & Stanley offered a low maintenance, highly effective cost down / quality up initiative which made it an easy decision for us to entrust our white-collar business needs, in addition to a continuation of playing a pivotal role in building our executive leadership team.”

Health testing company moves onto the high street

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Health testing company moves onto the high street

The owners of an East Midlands-based health testing company is set to offer a face-to-face advice service on the high street after purchasing its first retail outlet.

Healthy Stuff Online Ltd, based in Castle Donington, operates a worldwide testing service for people looking for insights on their health, including food allergies and intolerances.

It has now purchased a health food shop in Knaresborough, near Harrogate, which has been serving customers for more than 30 years.

Staff at the branch, who have all been retained, will now receive training to help customers take the range of Healthy Stuff tests in an on-site consulting room, which will be created later this year.

And its array of self-administered tests will be available to buy in store to complement the existing range of health supplements and well-being products which are already available to purchase.

While the historic building has undergone a refurbishment programme it still sells its complete range of health and wellbeing products, as well as its popular pick and mix loose tea range.

Healthy Stuff chairman Jason Wootton said: “We are absolutely delighted to be working with the team at Natural Choice which has been supporting the people of Knaresborough with their health and wellbeing for decades.

“We intend to support the company’s existing offering completely, but believe we can enhance the customer experience through our testing so they can gain valuable insights into which products will help them improve their health.

“Our tests, which are clinically proven and very similar to those used by medical professionals, are in heavy demand, but we want to go one better and help the NHS by inviting people into our new store to take a test as part of a wrap-around service involving face-to-face consultation and access to health and well-being products.

“We are thoroughly enjoying working alongside the staff at the store and we are learning more every day about this exciting market, which will be used to expand the group and develop further offerings to our current clients and partners.”

It is the first time Healthy Stuff has entered the high street, but it has plans to open several stores throughout the UK during 2024.

The company is making the move into bricks and mortar after doubling in size over the last year, thanks to a huge increase in demand for its hair and finger-prick blood sample tests from people taking investigations into their medical symptoms into their own hands.

The change in behaviour has been prompted by delays in seeing their GPs and people’s awareness of the ease and convenience of home testing following the widespread use of lateral flow tests during COVID.

Rushton Hickman sees success on the rink

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Rushton Hickman sees success on the rink
Commercial property agents Rushton Hickman Ltd have successfully let and won the management of a unit on the modern Rink Drive development on the edge of Swadlincote town centre. The property comprises a modern end-terraced industrial unit of steel portal frame construction. The ground floor and upper floor provides 2,288 sq ft of industrial and office space, which has been transformed by the new tenant, My Life Interiors; they specialise in the designing and installation of kitchens and bathrooms in the Swadlincote, Burton-upon-Trent and surrounding areas. Rushton Hickman Ltd’s client, Mr Bolton said: “After managing my rental investment myself, I decided to talk to professionals. “At the first meeting with Graham Bancroft, I immediately felt confident and comfortable as he outlined a strategy for the rental of the property. It was obvious to me that Graham totally understood the market. “I was then introduced to Jade Martin, who would be responsible for the management of the property – Jade exceeded all my expectations.” Associate Director, Jade Martin concluded: “We are pleased to have been able to find the perfect premises for the Swadlincote based business to enable them to fulfil their business needs, whilst also agreeing terms quickly for our client to avoid a vacant period. “Demand is still strong in this sector and we would recommend anyone looking to sell or let their premises contacts us, as we would be delighted to discuss potential options.”

Exchange programme brings American accountant to Nottingham

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Exchange programme brings American accountant to Nottingham
Nottingham accountants Page Kirk recently welcomed a visitor from the USA, as part of an exchange programme with associate firm in Wisconsin. Jordan Ditter, Senior Accountant with Wegner CPAs in Madison, spent a month at the Page Kirk offices on Gregory Boulevard, where he not only gained an appreciation of British accounting practices, but also managed to take in some of the local sights and entertainment – including a match at the City Ground and a visit to a traditional pantomime. The trip comes hot on the heels of Page Kirk’s Sonja Dengler spending time in Madison and finding out more about accountancy on the other side of the pond. The exchange was made possible by Page Kirk’s membership of Accelerate – a network of accountancy firms affiliated with Crowe Global. The connections across borders mean that the local accountancy business is kept abreast of the very latest developments in best practice and technology. At the same time, their clients have access to international expertise, while members of staff can benefit from opportunities to work overseas. Jordan said of his recent visit to Nottingham: “Overall, it was a really great experience. I felt like I learned a lot while at Page Kirk and even though I was in Nottingham to work, there were still lots of opportunities for leisure and activities. “It was great to meet a whole new team of people that I hope to stay in touch with after the exchange programme. Nottingham is a great city and I hope to make it back again someday.” Sonja reflected on her own trip to the USA: “The team at Wegner not only embraced me as a colleague but also went above and beyond to make me feel at home in a new work environment. Their hospitality was truly commendable. I felt encouraged to immerse myself in the culture, both professionally and personally.” Page Kirk are currently looking for qualified accountants and auditors to join their team. Benefits include the opportunity to take part in their international work exchange programme.

Preferred development partners selected to transform Derby City Centre

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Preferred development partners selected to transform Derby City Centre
Plans to regenerate Derby have taken a step forward with Derby City Council announcing a partnership made up of VINCI Developments UK and ION Developments as their preferred strategic development partner. In early 2023, the Council announced its intention to work with an experienced development partner to create a cohesive masterplan for the regeneration of several important city centre locations. Following an expression of interest process and procurement exercise through the Pagabo Developer Led Framework, VINCI and ION have been invited to develop more detailed plans for the cultural heart of the city. Over the coming months the partnership will work collaboratively with the Council, local businesses and community stakeholders to develop their vision and design for the regeneration of the city centre. Initial plans include a revitalised cultural quarter which will offer a range of leisure, commercial and community facilities, connected to a new business and residential district, incorporating the Bold Lane area and Northern Quarter. Within the proposed plans is a new cultural, commercial, and creative public space, which will be located on the site of the former Assembly Rooms. The multi-functional building will have spaces for meeting, working, and creating above restaurant and commercial space, to enhance the city centre offer. The plans are set in a redesigned and enhanced Market Place, which will become a focal point for the city and will create new and improved green spaces, including ‘pocket parks’ to support relaxation and wellbeing. The scheme also aims to create ‘green and blue corridors’ to improve connectivity between open spaces, such as Cathedral Green and the River Derwent and encourage more active travel across the city centre to underline the city’s net zero ambitions. Both firms have extensive experience in long-term regeneration and place management projects in collaboration with local authorities. The partnership will combine the extensive innovation, insight and experience of VINCI and ION, with the Council’s vision and understanding of the needs of the city. Councillor Nadine Peatfield, Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for City Centre, Regeneration, Culture and Tourism said: “Derby is a city of growth and economic significance, representing a regional economy of around £15bn, but despite all this our city centre does not reflect our status as an industry leader. “We’re on a journey to transform Derby into a vibrant city centre with culture at its heart, creating a go-to destination which not only attracts visitors from outside of the city but also offers an affordable place for our citizens to enjoy. “Attracting potential strategic development partners such as VINCI and ION is a huge step forward in bringing this ambitious vision to life. Both VINCI and ION hold a wealth of knowledge and experience and we’re very much looking forward to working with them on plans for our city centre’s exciting future.” Steve Parry, Managing Director of ION Developments, said: “We are delighted to be selected alongside VINCI Developments to work up these exciting plans for Derby City Council and the people and businesses of Derby. “Together, we will use our extensive experience to create a thriving city centre location that offers a blend of cultural, community, and commercial space to meet Derby’s needs, both now and long into the future.” Graham Lambert, Managing Director of VINCI UK Developments, said: “Derby as a city has much to offer and potential to be harnessed. We share the ambition of the Council, the local community and businesses, in seeking to revitalise the cultural core of the city. “The Council has laid the foundation for this, and we will create community led assets, flexible and diverse spaces and a quality business district that compliments the inward investment in the city. “We are proud to be chosen by the Council as partner for this important strategic project and look forward to working collaboratively with the Council and local stakeholders.” Avison Young have worked alongside the Council in a strategic property advisory role as well as supporting the procurement process, which was completed through Pagabo’s Developer Led Framework. Laura Loftus, Director and Contract Lead, Avison Young, said: “We are delighted to have supported the Council in developing the brief and the procurement process for this project. “VINCI and ION have clearly demonstrated their ambition on the scale and pace of the development, and their track record in sustainable regeneration provides a clear indication that the Council’s objectives and ambitions can be met through a series of well-planned developments which frame the future revitalisation of the City Centre.” Jonathan Parker, Development Director, Pagabo, said: “We’re delighted to see such an influential regeneration scheme getting underway with help from our specialist Developer Led Framework, to support Derby City Council’s ambitious plans, following a further competition process. “The scheme will take place over various sites in the city centre and promises to bring huge benefits to the local community. We can’t wait to follow the scheme as it progresses.” VINCI and ION will now work closely with the Council, local businesses and community stakeholders over the next six months to develop their vision and submit their plans for the city centre.

Green energy drive pays off for digital marketing agency

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Green energy drive pays off for digital marketing agency
Digital marketing agency Purpose Media is powering into 2024 – fuelled by green energy. The Derbyshire company, which has started the year with a number of new business wins, has invested in solar panels to provide clean electricity to its South Normanton headquarters. It has also replaced all its light fitments with LED bulbs, swapped petrol company vehicles for electric models and introduced free EV charging for staff and visitors. Managing Director Matt Wheatcroft said the business had been conscious of its environmental footprint and enlisted the help of experts from the University of Derby to conduct a detailed audit. “We’re committed to doing all we can to operate sustainably, and the university helped us assess the impact we were having on the environment and recommended measures we could implement to improve things,” he explained. The study revealed that installing solar panels could reduce the company’s carbon output by 6.3 tonnes each year, while moving to company electric vehicles could save a further 1.4 tonnes. The business also adopted a recommendation to switch light fittings to LED and decided to introduce two EV charging points which are free to use for employees and clients. The move has been close to a six-figure investment for the company, although some of that cost was mitigated by a £20,000 Green Entrepreneurs’ Programme grant from the university towards installation of the 109 solar panels. Matt now intends to investigate options for increasing insulation within the company’s offices to improve efficiency further and reduce heat loss. “We’re delighted with how the project has progressed to date and that we are making our contribution towards improved sustainability,” said Matt. “On top of the reduction being achieved in our emissions, we are also seeing substantial savings in our energy bills. Even after the installation of our two EV chargers, electricity costs have fallen by two-thirds during the winter months, and we expect not only to be self-sufficient in the summer but to also be able to supply excess power to the grid. “We think it should all add up to a saving of around £20,000 each year.” Communications director Steve Hall is one of the Purpose team who is able to take advantage of the free EV charging at work. “It helped persuade me that switching to an electric vehicle, despite increased up-front costs, was economically viable in the longer term as well as being good for the planet,” he said.

Merger to create “leading UK homebuilder”

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Merger to create “leading UK homebuilder”
Leicestershire-based housebuilding giant Barratt has revealed plans to acquire Redrow in a more than £2.5bn deal. Redrow shareholders will hold approximately 32.8 per cent of the combined group and Barratt shareholders will hold approximately 67.2 per cent of the combined group.

David Thomas, group chief executive of Barratt, said: “We have great respect for Redrow, its overall strategy, its leadership and employees, and its high-quality homes and communities.

“This is an exciting opportunity to bring together two highly complementary companies, creating an exceptional homebuilder in terms of quality, service and sustainability, able to build more of the high-quality homes this country needs.

“The combined group would leverage the respective strengths of both Barratt and Redrow, delivering significant benefits to our people, our supply chains, and – most importantly – our customers.”

Barratt and Redrow generated aggregate revenue of £7.4bn in FY 2023, delivering total completions of 22,642.

Matthew Pratt, group chief executive of Redrow, said: “Redrow and Barratt combined creates a leading UK homebuilder. Together, we’ll be in a much better position to offer a broader range of high-quality and energy efficient homes to customers.

“The Redrow brand, with its premium, characterful homes, has an excellent reputation and will remain a key part of the combined group. As with Barratt, Redrow’s fifty-year success story is based on its people, products and supply chain partners.

“Both businesses are a great fit and there are many exciting opportunities to innovate and share knowledge across a range of different areas.”

Steve Morgan, Redrow’s founder, said: “During the 50 years since I founded Redrow, I could not be more proud of the unique reputation it has earned for building premium homes and thriving communities.

“Barratt is a home builder I have long admired due to their likeminded attention to quality. I am confident that the Barratt / Redrow combination with their three high-quality complementary brands, will create a standout home builder for the future and accelerate the delivery of much needed homes across the UK.”

Caroline Silver, Barratt’s non-executive chair, will lead the combined group as non-executive chair. Barratt’s chief executive, David Thomas, will be group chief executive of the combined group. Mike Scott, chief financial officer of Barratt, will be chief financial officer of the combined group, and Steven Boyes, chief operating officer and deputy chief executive of Barratt, will be chief operating officer and deputy chief executive of the combined group. The board of directors will be a combined board comprising the existing executive and non-executive directors of Barratt, with the addition of Matthew Pratt, currently group chief executive of Redrow, who will join the combined group and assume the role of chief executive officer, Redrow, and group executive director, and Nicky Dulieu, currently senior independent director of Redrow, and Geeta Nanda, currently non-executive director of Redrow, who will both join as non-executive directors.

Barbara Richmond, group finance director of Redrow, has agreed to join the combined group to support the integration for a period of not less than 12 months.

The combined group will be renamed Barratt Redrow plc.

Coalville corrugated packaging firm makes acquisition

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Coalville corrugated packaging firm makes acquisition
The Logson Group, the Coalville-based independent supplier of corrugated packaging, has completed the acquisition of Challenge Packaging, an independent sheet plant based in East Sussex. Colin Prior, sales director and Simon Allen, chairman, along with the rest of the existing management team will remain with the business, continuing to lead Challenge Packaging as a stand-alone business within the Logson Group. Simon Allen, chairman, Challenge Packaging, said: “I am delighted to be involved in the next phase of Challenge Packaging’s development as we progress our future plans. “Our alignment with The Logson Group ethos serves to strengthen our market position whilst further diversifying our offering as we strive to maintain and grow our reputation as the Southeast’s leading packaging solution provider.” Martin Coppard, Managing Director, Challenge Packaging, added: “I am incredibly excited to work with the entire Challenge team, alongside colleagues at Logson Group, as we begin the next phase of our journey. “Joining with Logson, as our ideal partner, allows us to expand and evolve our market leading capabilities and drive customer service to new levels.” David Richardson, Logson Group CEO, added: “Challenge Packaging is a great addition to the Logson family, and we are pleased to have acquired the business allowing us to expand our reach into the Southeast of the country. “Simon, Colin, and the team at Challenge Packaging, have built a very strong business that has shown continued growth and development over many years. There is a strong correlation between the two organisations in terms of culture, drive, and approach to customers. We are very excited to be able to share expertise and capabilities with the wider Logson Group.” Challenge Packaging will join the existing Logson Group brands of Board24, Boxes and Packaging, Cases24, Jardin Corrugated, Red Rose Packaging, Boxshop, The Cardboard Box Company and Durham Box. Logson Group has a turnover of over £400m per annum and employs over 1,300 people.
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