Burton RBS building sold to aid Solesmith brand expansion

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Burton RBS building sold to aid Solesmith brand expansion
Burton upon Trent commercial property agents and consultants, Salloway have completed the sale of a 5,671 sq ft two storey modern office/retail property in Burton town centre to local business, Solesmith. The move opens up an opportunity to grow a corporate merchandise and embroidery services side to the thriving business. The property is located at 38-41 Station Street, Burton and was formerly occupied by RBS, with recruiter Pertemps previously occupying the first-floor space. Solesmith are a local, well-established cult personalised gifting brand, conceptualized and founded by proprietor Lauren Dorling in 2014 when she realised there was a huge gap in the personalised gift market, an often-overlooked fashion accessory and gift opportunity – Great Socks. As the sock business has grown, ranges have been developed to include underwear, slippers, homeware and cosy loungewear with magical personalised touches. Solesmith now have gift ranges that they design and make for major high street brands such as Next, Joules, Dunelm and John Lewis. Lauren Dorling, proprietor of Solesmith, said: “What started as a sock brand has grown amazingly. All of our gifts are designed, photographed and personalised to order in our local workshop by our experienced, lovely skilled team. “We have invested a lot in technology and systems but are at capacity in our current business premises in Burton and have been struggling to find the right property locally to purchase for our very much needed business expansion and relocation. Luckily, Salloway were able to provide us with the solution to our property needs! “The new premises offer Solesmith room to grow as a design and online gifting business with more space, and an in-house photography studio. Alongside that we will have more focus on growing our sister brand Podsmith.co.uk, which specialises in corporate merchandise, workwear, embroidery services and product brand development for fellow independent businesses. “The new property is ideally located in Burton town centre to enable us to offer potential customers an interactive retail showroom facility to visit, to see first-hand the unique products we offer and to discuss personal design requirements for individual personalizing of our range of gifts and merchandise. We feel really passionate about our local area and working closely with other local businesses and customers to collaborate and grow opportunities here. “It was great to work with Salloway, another Burton business who really knows the market here and who helped the sale.” Responsible for brokering the sale, Anwar Hussain, associate partner at Salloway, added: “As a former bank comprising just under 6,000 sq ft, this property attracted a lot of interest. It really is great to see a local independent business become established not only in the local market but thriving nationally through its supply to major High Street brands and its online presence. We wish Lauren and her team the very best.”

Leicester-based technology innovator establishes new head office in the city

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Leicester-based technology innovator establishes new head office in the city
Cyferd, an innovative software company, has set up a new head office and AI research hub in a historic building close to Leicester city centre. 
Cyferd’s game-changing software can generate applications in seconds with just a few keywords, providing businesses across all sectors with a comprehensive suite of advanced tools that can help them to improve their operations and stay ahead of the competition on a global scale. 
The decision to set up in Leicester reflects the company’s commitment to the UK tech sector and its passion for helping underrepresented groups advance their journeys to successful careers in technology. The new head office is based in the Grade-II listed former Fielding Johnson Hospital building on Regent Road, close to the city centre and Leicester’s two universities. 
By establishing its head office in Leicester, Cyferd is committed to providing employment opportunities for local people and contributing to the city’s growing technology sector. The move is a testament to Cyferd’s belief in the potential of Leicester as a hub for innovation and entrepreneurship. 
The company’s founder and CEO, Ranjit Bahia said: “We are thrilled to be establishing the new tech hub of the UK, here in Leicester. Our vision is to bring together the brightest and best minds from all corners of the country in our new AI R&D facility. We aim to inspire the youth of Leicester and the UK, and show them that they could have a bright future ahead in the world of tech at our Leicester hub.” 
With the establishment of its head office in Leicester, the technology start-up is poised for continued growth and success in the field of AI. As the company continues to develop ground-breaking solutions, it is committed to encouraging the next generation of tech pioneers by starting outreach programmes into primary and secondary schools to encourage interest in STEM subjects and careers in tech. 
Leicester City Mayor Sir Peter Soulsby said: “I’m very pleased that Cyferd has chosen to make its head office in Leicester, thereby joining what is the largest cluster of creative and digital businesses outside London. “With two local universities at the forefront of design and technology on their doorstep, they certainly have a wealth of local talent to recruit from, and I welcome their commitment to developing local educational and job opportunities in this exciting sector.”

Work starts on second phase of Oadby residential development

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Work starts on second phase of Oadby residential development

Work on phase two of the Horwood Gardens development in Oadby is now under way.

The scheme being built by Ashberry Homes – part of the Bellway Group – is named after the first curator of the University of Leicester’s Botanic Garden, Arthur Horwood.

Horwood Gardens is bringing 71 homes for private sale and 46 affordable homes available for local people through low-cost rent or shared ownership.

Phase one included the construction of 45 private properties, and all the affordable homes, and now work has begun on the remaining 26 three, four and five-bedroom houses, which occupy a smaller site on the opposite side of Gartree Road.

Shirley MacLeod, sales manager for Ashberry Homes, said: “Work at Horwood Gardens is advancing extremely well, as we can see from our progress on phase one and the start of construction on phase two.

“This is great news for this part of Leicestershire as there is certainly demand for new housing here and in particular for high-quality, well-designed properties.

“The range of homes here has proved to be very attractive. There is something for every kind of buyer, whether they are purchasing their first home, upsizing to accommodate a family, or looking to downsize into a modern and more efficient property.

“Horwood Gardens is already an integral part of the Oadby area as a neighbourhood and a community is forming. And it is very fitting that it is named after Arthur Horwood as people in the area are rather fond of the Botanic Garden, which was transferred to Oadby in 1947 and is still here to this day.”

The scheme is part of wider 310-home project which is being delivered jointly by Ashberry Homes and Bellway. Work started towards the end of 2020.

The developers are investing more than £987,000 in local services and infrastructure through the contributions agreed as part of the planning agreement, including funding for bus passes, healthcare, primary and secondary education, as well as library contributions, allotment contributions and Coombe Park Pavilion contributions.

Miller Homes makes divisional managing director promotion

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Miller Homes makes divisional managing director promotion
Ben Massey has been promoted to divisional managing director for Miller Homes, leading the company’s regional offices in East Midlands, South Midlands, and Yorkshire. Ben joined Miller Homes in 2001 after completing his degree in residential development at Nottingham Trent University. Over the last 22 years, he has progressed through the company, becoming land director for the Midlands regions in 2013, before achieving promotion to the post of regional managing director for Miller’s East Midlands office and its South Midlands office, which opened in Northampton in 2022. As divisional managing director, Ben will oversee the East Midlands and South Midlands regions, as well as taking on responsibility for the Yorkshire regional office, based in Wakefield. Ben Massey said: “I’m very pleased to be taking on this new role at Miller Homes, working with our excellent teams across three unique and distinctive regions. I look forward to developing our presence in the South Midlands, where we will be celebrating our first completions this summer, while continuing to deliver top quality homes at new and existing sites in the East Midlands and Yorkshire. “At Miller Homes, we take great pride in the work we do, building the best houses possible for our customers and maintaining strong relationships with contractors and landowners across the UK. It’s a real privilege to continue my professional journey with Miller as a divisional managing director, building on the invaluable experience I have gained to date with the company.” Stewart Lynes, Chief Executive Officer at Miller Homes, said: “Since joining the company in 2001, Ben has made an excellent contribution to our work in the East Midlands, and more recently, he has played a key role in setting up a new regional office in South Midlands. “His promotion to divisional managing director is well deserved and I’m sure he will work hard with the three regional teams to continue to grow our reputation as a quality homebuilder that customers can trust and rely on.”

Double award glory for Northamptonshire housebuilder

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Double award glory for Northamptonshire housebuilder

A Northamptonshire housebuilder is celebrating after winning big at a local business awards ceremony.

East Haddon-based Cora took home the gold award in the Sustainability category at this year’s SME Northamptonshire Business Awards, while Managing Director Luke Simmons scooped silver in the Business Person of the Year category.

The business creates developments throughout the Midlands, focused on sustainability and building energy efficient homes for the future.

The shift in focus comes after the business rebranded from Barwood Homes late last year.

Luke said: “We are absolutely thrilled to take home such prestigious awards, in recognition of all the hard work put in over the last year.

“Everyone at Cora is committed to sustainability and creating amazing places that support our environment. We are proudly Northamptonshire-based, so winning a local award makes this feeling that extra bit special.”

Cora has invested heavily in renewable energy alternatives on its sites, while it is also researching innovative new ways to heat its homes using waste water recovery systems.

It has also contributed more than £11,000 towards nature preservation in the last year while planting over 9,000 trees and shrubs.

The business also recognises its social responsibility and puts great emphasis on training apprentices and graduates, while setting targets to hire more people from disadvantaged backgrounds.

It has also set a goal of designating 50% of its homes for affordable housing over the next two years.

Luke added: “As a business we recognise the impact our industry has on the world – and we want to make it a better one.

“We are proving that investing in sustainable practices and delivering on our social ambitions can have a real impact not just on our customers, but us as a business too.

“This is a very exciting time for our business and I speak on behalf of the whole team when I say we are looking forward to extending our reach further throughout the Midlands and beyond.”

Shoosmiths’ Wealth Protection and Disputed Wills and Trusts teams transfer to Rothley

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Shoosmiths’ Wealth Protection and Disputed Wills and Trusts teams transfer to Rothley
Law firm Shoosmiths has transferred its Wealth Protection team and members of its Disputed Wills & Trusts and Court of Protection teams to Rothley Law following a strategic review. The 41-strong team joining Rothley includes three former Shoosmiths partners Adam Draper, Melissa Maple and Lucy Taylor, and legal director Charlotte Dunn. The transfer follows a strategic review by Shoosmiths in 2022 which led to the firm’s decision to withdraw from the consumer facing High Net Worth and Family markets. Subject to client agreement, ongoing matters and relationships will be transferred to Rothley. Chairman of Rothley Law, John Verrill, said: “We are delighted to bring onboard the High Net Worth, Disputed Wills and Trusts and Court of Protection teams from Shoosmiths. This is a major cornerstone of our growing Rothley consumer practice. “The quality of the client work being produced by these teams is incredibly high and the level of care, passion and quality they bring to their clients is exceptional, producing a culture of ‘above and beyond’. We look forward to working with these teams in innovative ways, to grow and develop these disciplines and to win increased market share. “We thank Shoosmiths for the ease of transition of these valued partners and staff and we will maintain a complementary offering for their firm to ensure that they can remain a broader service port of call and refer such opportunities to Rothley with confidence in future.” Peter Duff, chairperson at Shoosmiths, said: “They are a first class team and we fully expect to maintain close relationships on both a personal level and also for the benefit of our mutual clients. We wish the team and Rothley Law every success in the future.”

Motor Source ESFL champions crowned

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Motor Source ESFL champions crowned
Teams from the West Midlands Police, North Wales Police and London Fire Brigade have been crowned this season’s champions in the Motor Source ESFL in the women’s league, men’s open age and veterans leagues. An epic day of football took place at the beginning of June, and not just the FA Cup Final, no, it was the finals day for the Motor Source Emergency Services Football League! Playing at Broadhurst Park Stadium in Manchester on Sunday 4th June, the final matches from the Women’s, Men’s Open Age and Veterans Leagues took place, with the West Midlands Police Women’s Team, North Wales Police Men’s and London Fire Brigade Veteran’s coming out victorious and taking home the trophies. Final Scores: Women’s Final – West Midlands Police 5 – 0 London Fire Men’s Open Age – North Wales Police 1 – 0 Thames Valley Police Men’s Veteran – London Fire 1 – 1 Met Police with London Fire winning on penalties. Players from the winning teams shared what this means to them after their victories: West Midlands Police Women’s FC West Midlands Police Women’s FC Coach London Fire Brigade Veterans FC The Motor Source ESFL was set up in 2019 by two Detective Constables who work for West Yorkshire Police, Andy Smurthwaite and Pete Overton, with the aim to bring together the police service, the fire service, the NHS and the prison service in a competitive UK wide league and the only league of its kind in the UK! It was during the duo’s involvement in the running of the West Yorkshire Police Team that they realised how limited fixtures were and the difficulties in arranging games. Each of the respective Emergency Services have their own competition but surprisingly there were none that brought the 999 community together. From here the idea of the Emergency Services Football League was born! Title sponsors of the league, Motor Source Group offer new car discounts for Emergency Services personnel, saving them on average £6,019 each on their new cars, and have been supporting the ESFL from its initial days. CEO Steve Thornton said: “It has been our pleasure to be closely involved with the ESFL again this season. Seeing all of the teams really dedicate themselves to their league and matches, and then what it means to them to be involved in the finals day is just brilliant. “The ESFL is a great incentive to bring people together from all Emergency Services and give something really positive to help boost their health and well being too.” Find out more about the ESFL and register your team here: https://www.esfl.co.uk/register/

East Midlands company receives global award during 40th anniversary year

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East Midlands company receives global award during 40th anniversary year
Michael Howard, founder and Managing Director of Frontier Software plc, has collected a prestigious award at the Global Payroll Association (GPA) Awards held on 8 June in Edinburgh, Scotland. Described by the GPA as a ‘disruptor in the payroll industry’, Michael was presented with the Judges Award, in special recognition of Frontier Software’s 40 years in the provision of payroll software and services worldwide. At the event, which celebrates the global payroll industry, a delighted Michael collected the award from CEO Melanie Pizzey and judges David Spencer and Ana Ronco-Dumas. Michael, who founded Frontier Software in 1983, said he was honoured and especially proud to receive the award during the company’s 40th Anniversary celebrations. Michael flew in from Melbourne, Australia to celebrate with solution providers and payroll professionals from across the globe, and then departed the next day for the office in Manila, Philippines. Upon accepting the award, he thanked both the GPA and judges for recognising his active role within the payroll industry, and the work of Frontier Software, saying: “I am very proud of the company and all that it has achieved.” He added: “Payroll is critical to every business and across 40 years Frontier Software has never stood still. There is always more that we can be doing, and we must keep listening, learning, and developing our solutions in line with the technology, legislation, and the demands of existing and potential new customers.” In a market where providers come and go, Frontier Software has remained a constant that can be relied upon and trusted to deliver when it comes to payroll software and services. With a focus on payroll and HR and an ambition to provide first class products and customer service, the company goes from strength to strength with the indefatigable Michael Howard at the helm!

Next ups sales and profit guidance as trading beats expectations

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Next ups sales and profit guidance as trading beats expectations
In an unscheduled update Next has revealed better trading than expected, upping its sales and profit guidance for the year. The Leicestershire-based company said: “Trading in the last seven weeks has been materially better than the guidance we issued in May and we are updating the market accordingly.” Full price sales in the first seven weeks of the second quarter were up 9.3% versus last year. It compares to Next’s guidance of -5%. In the period, Next has beaten its full price sales estimates by £93m. As a result the firm said: “We are upgrading our full price sales guidance for the full year by £137m and our full year profit guidance by £40m to £835m.” Next has put the reason for the improved performance down to the onset of warmer weather, particularly coming after a wet and cold April, and, in an inflationary environment, increases in annual salary uplifting household income. Next added: “We do not think it is a coincidence that sales stepped forward so markedly at a time of year when many organisations make their annual pay awards.”

Frasers Group take 8.9% stake in Currys

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Frasers Group take 8.9% stake in Currys
Frasers Group is further growing its retail portfolio, taking an 8.9% stake in electricals retailer Currys. It comes just a week after the Shirebrook-based business acquired a strategic stake of 18.9% in online electricals retailer AO World Plc. The £75m investment was said to be the culmination of productive talks over the last two years about establishing a strategic partnership. Frasers has since upped its stake to 21.3%. Through the investment, Frasers Group said it would benefit from AO’s “valuable know-how in electricals and two-man delivery,” helping to drive growth in the firm’s bulk equipment and homeware ranges. In turn, Frasers said AO will have the opportunity to benefit from its expertise and ecosystem. Frasers Group has also announced a £70m maximum share buyback programme. Earlier in the month it was revealed that up to 200 jobs could be slashed at Frasers Group’s Shirebrook headquarters and in London as the retail giant tries to streamline processes.

Growth Hub celebration event sells out as European business funding support draws to a close

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Growth Hub celebration event sells out as European business funding support draws to a close

All tickets have now been reserved for a one-off event celebrating business growth success in Leicester and Leicestershire.

The LLEP Business Gateway Growth Hub organised the event to mark the conclusion of a partnership project – part-funded by the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF) – run by Leicester City Council, Leicestershire County Council, East Midlands Chamber, and the LLEP.

The event, on 23 June, will feature a host of local businesses and service providers.

It will be hosted by Jim Willis, Managing Director of digital agency Bulb Studios, and will include updates on future business support available from Leicester City Council, the county, and the LLEP.

The end of the project, on 30 June, means that the Business Gateway Growth Hub will return its focus to signposting local businesses to support available locally, regionally, and nationally.

Keynote speaker Tajinder Banwait will tell guests about the journey of her fragrance brand, Urban Apothecary London, from kitchen table in Leicester to 30 international markets.

Tajinder, honoured with a Queen’s Award for Enterprise last year in recognition of excellence in international trade, will also share tips as businesses from across the city and county gather to recognise outcomes of the Business Gateway Growth Hub.

Tickets have sold out for the showcase, which takes place at the Holiday Inn, St Nicholas Circle, from 9.30am to 2pm on Friday 23 June.

There is now a waiting list and anyone with a ticket who will not be able to attend is asked to let event organisers know.

Tajinder said: “I’m looking forward to sharing my story with the Leicester and Leicestershire business community, and in doing so I will hopefully inspire others. 

“I’m proud of how far I’ve come and of Urban Apothecary’s Leicestershire roots and connections. By returning to where it all started for me I hope to encourage other local entrepreneurs to follow in my footsteps.”

A mini expo at the event will outline the Growth Hub’s ongoing offer and signpost businesses to further support.  

Those attending the event will gain tips on business growth and be able to network with other business owners and entrepreneurs over a buffet lunch.

New associate director for Armsons Barlow

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New associate director for Armsons Barlow
Derby-based project managers, construction cost consultants and building surveyors Armsons Barlow have appointed Ryan Thompson as associate director. Ryan takes on the new role eighteen months year after joining the company as a senior quantity surveyor. Prior to joining Armsons Barlow, Ryan spent 10 years working as a quantity surveyor and project manager and gained experience of delivering a variety of schemes ranging in value across several sectors. Coming from a main contractor’s background, Ryan also has a strong grounding in managing costs, from estimating through to final account stages, including tracking and appropriately valuing variations. Since joining Armsons Barlow, he has delivered a diverse range of project management, quantity surveying and cost management services to both private and public sector clients. Ryan is currently managing several high-profile projects, including the new office HQ for Molson Coors Brewing Company and a new 127,000 sq ft warehouse for storage and logistics firm ATL. In his new role as associate director, Ryan will manage a small team of surveyors and lead the company’s services on a portfolio of schemes for one of its key clients. Commenting on his new role, Ryan said: “I’m thrilled to have been appointed to the role of associate director at Armsons Barlow eighteen months after I joined the company. “In my new role I hope to use my experience over the past decade to continue to deliver the highest levels of services to our broad client base across the UK. “This marks a new chapter for me at Armsons Barlow, and I look forward to continuing to learn and work alongside a great team of colleagues.” Josh Toon, director of Armsons Barlow, added: “We’re delighted to announce Ryan as associate director and are confident that he’ll thrive in his new role. “His progression from senior quantity surveyor to associate director in such a short space of time is testament to his hard work and commitment to the company and its clients. We look forward to seeing his continued progression over the coming years. “Ryan is a real team player, which enables us to provide clients with a consistently first-class service and achieve the most cost-effective delivery of their project objectives.”

Corporate insolvencies surge by over 50% as businesses battle high prices and borrowing costs

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Corporate insolvencies surge by over 50% as businesses battle high prices and borrowing costs

A month-on-month surge of over 50 per cent in the number of corporate insolvencies in England and Wales highlights the toll that three years of economic turmoil is taking on local businesses, with increasing numbers of companies expected to turn to an insolvency process over coming months to help resolve their financial issues.

This is according to the Midlands branch of the UK’s insolvency and restructuring trade body R3 and comes on the back of latest figures from the Insolvency Service which show that corporate insolvencies jumped by 51.2 per cent in May 2023 to a total of 2,552 compared to April’s total of 1,688, and by 39.8 per cent against May 2022’s figure of 1,825.

Furthermore, the May 2023 corporate insolvency levels shot up by 151.9 per cent in comparison with May 2021’s total of 1,013 and by 170.3 per cent against May 2020’s total of 944. Corporate insolvencies also increased by 89.3 per cent compared to the pre-pandemic figure of 1,348 in May 2019.

R3 Midlands chair Stephen Rome, director of law firm Thursfields in the region, said: “These corporate insolvency figures are the highest we’ve seen since January 2019, as the fallout from battling the effects of the pandemic – coupled with rising costs, increased creditor pressure, and high inflation – is causing more businesses to turn to an insolvency process.

“The key driver of the rise in numbers is the increase in Creditors’ Voluntary Liquidations, which are at a near four-and-a-half year high, and more than double the number they were in May 2019. Many directors are running out of time and options, liquidating their businesses before the choice is taken away from them.

“Firms are operating in a market where consumers are spending cautiously, costs are increasing and suppliers are chasing debts in an attempt to manage their own cashflow challenges. This is creating a tough climate for businesses of all sizes at a time when they need an injection of cash.

“While the summer months might provide some relief from energy costs, firms will have to pay to keep their premises, staff and customers cool, which will hit any potential savings.

“Going forward, interest rates and inflation will continue to create challenges for businesses seeking funding over the summer, which could be the tipping point for those companies on the brink of insolvency.

“Directors need to remain vigilant to signs of corporate distress and seek advice if they start to see stock levels increase, cashflow become an issue, or if there are issues paying rent, staff or bills. Seeking appropriate support as early as possible will give more potential solutions than acting only when problems become more severe.”

Investment firm behind Pinewood film studios joins list of Center Parcs bidders

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Investment firm behind Pinewood film studios joins list of Center Parcs bidders
The investment firm behind Pinewood film studios has been added to the list of bidders for Nottinghamshire-headquartered Center Parcs. The real estate investor, Aermont is expected to put forward an indicative offer for Center Parcs, according to reports from Sky News. Center Parcs was put up for sale last month (May) by Brookfield with a £4-5bn price range. It follows news that Singaporean sovereign wealth fund Government Investment Corporation (GIC) is in talks regarding a joint bid for Center Parcs with private equity investor KSL Capital Partners, and reports that a vehicle managed by private equity giant CVC Capital Partners was considering putting forward an offer to buy the holiday resorts chain’s six UK and Ireland sites. Infrastructure funds, including Antin, are also exploring offers for the company, according to Sky News’ city sources. The first UK Center Parcs location opened at Sherwood Forest in Nottinghamshire in 1987. Today, Center Parcs serves over 2 million guests per year with a 98% occupancy rate.

Botham Accounting appoint Healthcare & Property debt advisory specialist

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Botham Accounting appoint Healthcare & Property debt advisory specialist
Botham Accounting, the Nottingham-based accountancy firm, have appointed Wes Hodelin and launched a dedicated debt advisory service for clients – Botham Capital. The boutique accounting practice who have a team of 40 and have seen year on year growth of 25%, specialise in the healthcare and property sectors with a nationwide client base. Wes brings with him 16 years’ of financial services experience, 10 years of which have been dedicated to healthcare and property financing. The majority of his career was spent in commercial banking and client coverage at RBS Group as a relationship manager, then at Santander Corporate as a relationship director. His most recent role was director of healthcare at MAF Finance Group, providing independent advisory and brokerage services to healthcare groups and property investors across the UK. Wes, who has experience working with funders from across the capital spectrum, from private credit and hedge funds through to bridging lenders and high street banks, said: “I am delighted to be joining the Botham Accounting team, having worked closely with them on several transactions where my origination, structuring and execution expertise have combined with Botham’s robust financial modelling and due diligence services. “The debt advisory practice will bring this all together under a single proposition which will serve to improve the client experience whilst making transactions efficient for all involved. Given Botham Accounting’s position as a mid-market boutique, and my track record of delivering funding in the £1m to £50m space, I am excited about unlocking the significant value our new and disruptive service will add to those who choose to engage us as advisers.” Tom Gregory, director of Botham Accounting, said: “We’re thrilled that Wes has joined us. Having Wes on board will enhance our offering to both existing clients as well as new clients. In addition to work such as accounts preparation and audits we’re spending an increasing amount of time on transactional work so having Wes’ involvement and his experience will be invaluable.”

East Midlands refreshment companies merge

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East Midlands refreshment companies merge
East Midlands refreshments companies R+R Hub and Posh Nosh are merging, resulting in a predicted combined turnover of over £2m in the next financial year, and the joining of more than 30 staff. Posh Nosh have more than 20 years of experience as a corporate caterer. Rhona King, the Managing Director, started her journey in 2001, when an opportunity arose to rename her company at that time, to Posh Nosh, from a competitor who was in the process of retiring. Soon to join the business was Rob King, now the commercial director of Posh Nosh. The team has grown over the last 20 years to now include a multi skilled work force, of caterers, drivers, and a customer service team. R+R Hub on the other hand, is comparatively new, born out of a continued demand of a variety of vending solutions from their sister company, Cema Vending. R+R Hub saw an opportunity to meet more customer demand by providing workplace refreshments in commercial settings, with concepts such as Micro Markets. “This is such an exciting opportunity for everyone involved,” said Rhona King, Managing Director of Posh Nosh. “This move means that we are all looking forward to the future. We have some ambitious growth plans, so make sure that you watch this space for some exciting developments.” Simon Leadley, Managing Director of R+R Hub, described the merger as “a perfect fit.” He explained that “two local businesses combining to offer the complete solution will mean that the best possible service can now be provided to our customers.”

Work completes on £23m urban logistics development in Wigston

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Work completes on £23m urban logistics development in Wigston
Developer Chancerygate has achieved practical completion on a 128,000 sq ft Grade A urban logistics scheme in South Wigston, near Leicester, which has a gross development value in excess of £23m. Known as Genesis Park, the development comprises 15 urban logistics units ranging from 4,800 sq ft to 18,570 sq ft which are available on a freehold or leasehold basis. Located close to a Tesco superstore, Lidl and Wickes, the development is just over five miles south of Leicester city centre and is also well connected to the M1 and M69. All units at Genesis Park feature electric vehicle charging points, secured cycle parking and 15 per cent roof lighting. In addition, the units are constructed from high-performance building materials to reduce CO2 emissions. The scheme has a BREEAM rating of Very Good and the units have an EPC rating of B. Chancerygate development director and head of its Birmingham office, Mark Garrity, said: “Genesis Park is a fantastic new addition to South Wigston’s well-established warehousing and logistics area. “Our new development provides occupiers with much-needed sustainable, high specification urban logistics accommodation in a well-connected strategic location within the East Midlands. “We have every confidence Genesis Park will be an enduring economic asset for the area, ensuring businesses are best placed to grow and deliver ongoing job creation.” Agents for Genesis Park are Avison Young, Phillips Sutton and JLL.

Work starts on 333 new homes for Fairham, Nottingham

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Work starts on 333 new homes for Fairham, Nottingham
On Friday (June 16), Countryside Partnerships, the mixed tenure developer, was joined by local dignitaries and stakeholders to mark the start of construction of 333 new homes at Alvaredus, Fairham, a new community being built to the south of Nottingham. Cllr Neil Clarke MBE, leader of Rushcliffe Borough Council joined representatives from the scheme’s housing providers, developers and partners, comprising Countryside Partnerships, emh group, Start Living, Gatehouse Investment Management, Clowes Developments and Homes England. The new development, called Alvaredus as a nod to the area’s lineage to Alvaredus de Clifton, a Norman knight, will deliver 333 new homes and provide a sustainable new community made up of two, three and four-bedroom properties. The new homes comprise 133 homes for private sale, 100 affordable homes for emh group and 100 private rental homes through Start Living, the single-family build-to-rent joint venture between Gatehouse Investment Management and TPG Real Estate Partners. Martin Harrison, Managing Director, North East Midlands, Countryside Partnerships, said: “I’m immensely proud to welcome our partners and stakeholders to site to celebrate the start work on Alvaredus, a new, attractive and sustainable community for Nottingham. “This is a start of an exciting new chapter for the area; widening the choice of homes, bringing employment and boosting the local economy.” Rushcliffe Borough Council’s leader and portfolio holder for strategic and borough wide leadership, cllr Neil Clarke, said: “I am thrilled to witness this ground-breaking ceremony that marks the beginning of housing development here at Fairham. “Today symbolises years of work and collaboration with the developer (Countryside), the landowners and other partners and stakeholders along with a commitment to create a community and legacy that we can all be proud of. “Let us celebrate this momentous occasion and look forward to the vibrant and thriving neighbourhood that this housing development will form part of.” Paul Stockwell, Managing Director of Gatehouse Investment Management, said: “Having worked closely with Countryside Partnerships on other developments, it is hugely pleasing to be undertaking another project with them, which when finished will be Start Living’s third site in Nottingham. Start of works is a major milestone for the scheme, and we look forward to welcoming families to the homes once construction is complete.” Robert Hepwood, director – Clowes Developments, said: “After many years of planning Fairham, we are absolutely delighted to welcome Countryside Partnerships to the development. To date, most of the works at Fairham have centred around a £100million infrastructure works package, ensuring that power, utilities, sewerage, drainage, and roads are in place. “The first four buildings on Fairham Business Park are nearing completion with occupiers scheduled to move in before the end of the year. We have worked closely with the NET to create a brand-new access road off Mill Hill serving the Park and Ride and Fairham. “Having the first housing developers mobilising their team on site is a very exciting next step for Fairham.”

Alvaredus will form part of Fairham, the 606-acre mixed use neighbourhood scheme championed by Homes England and Clowes Developments. Fairham will not only deliver new employment opportunities but will also assist Rushcliffe Borough Council in meeting its new homes target of 13,500 dwellings by 2030.

LLC completes hattrick of “spectacular” National Licensing Week Events

Tess Egginton
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LLC completes hattrick of “spectacular” National Licensing Week Events

Licensing Law Consultancy (LLC) has, for the third time, hosted the National Licensing Week Event 2023 in Nottingham, an event described as “spectacular.”

The National Licensing Week Event was conceived and first delivered in June 2019 by Walaiti Rathore and Licensing Law Consultancy.

The purpose was to support the Institute of Licensing’s annual National Licensing Week campaign, with a large scale national event to celebrate and raise awareness of licensing and the role it plays in everyday lives.

Once again, the event was a private invitation-only black tie celebration. These events have been attended over the years by representatives of the Institute of Licensing, directors of UK Hospitality and the Confederation of British Industry, Pub Watch, the Gambling Commission, Hospitality Association, leading operators with a local and national presence, representatives from international hospitality brands as well as leading businesses and professionals from all sectors.

Guests, over the years, have been treated to canapes, a three course meal, unlimited complimentary drinks all evening, spectacular entertainment acts and music, and have received various gifts including items from fashion designer Paul Smith.

The evening this year was compered, once again, by Bikram Rathore, who gave an overview of licensing’s importance and pivotal role in our efforts to recover from the number of crises currently shaping our economic landscape, before introducing a stellar line up of speakers; Dan Davies, the UK Chair of the Institute of Licensing and CEO of Rock Point Leisure, Karl Thomas, Chief Inspector of Nottinghamshire Police for the city centre, George Wishart from the Licensed Trade Charity, and Marcellus Baz, winner of BBC Sports Personality of the Year and CEO of the Switch Up group.

All speakers emphasised the importance of partnership working to help overcome the current challenges faced in hospitality and licensing, to ensure vibrancy and safety in businesses as well as in our communities.

Walaiti Rathore said: “I am humbled, once again, by all the guests who attended as it would not have been possible without them, some of whom travelled long distances to Nottingham to support LLC and this event.

“These events continue the aim of involving representatives or members of organisations within or closely connected to licensing and also people from businesses and professionals with no such connections. This has proved to be the best way to reach out to the wider public.

“A special mention this year for Alea for their continued incredible support as well as Michael Wisher Team Support, Chaiiwala, Equinox Audio Visual, Freedom Brewery and Clever Socks.”

Management buy-out for Lincolnshire engineering firm

Tess Egginton
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Management buy-out for Lincolnshire engineering firm
Lincolnshire-headquartered engineering firm, Blackrow, has undergone a management buy-out (MBO). Established over 40 years ago, the Grimsby-based firm provides specialist fabrication services to a blue-chip customer base across the world, with the 300 strong workforce delivering solutions including conveyors, gantry, mezzanine and platform manufacture, control and automations systems, structural and pipework fabrication and installations. The MBO sees Managing Director, Tony Booker, together with Gary Pexman (sales director), Nick Rands (operations director), Luke O’Brien (structural/piping director) and Callum Day (electrical director), join the board and become majority shareholders. Blackrow’s current directors and shareholders – Neil Ellis (finance director), Chris Marfleet, Darren Broughton and Glenn Richie – will remain on the board and retain an investment in Blackrow. ABN AMRO provided new facilities to fund the transaction. James Elliott, director at ABN AMRO, said: “Blackrow has a fantastic reputation in its markets and an impressive, loyal customer base. These factors, together with an excellent pipeline of projects over coming months and years led us to want to support the MBO and the future growth of the business.” Neil Ellis, finance director, said: “The current shareholders of Blackrow have had succession plans in place for some time and its very pleasing to have seen the MBO team take shape over the last few years and to transition into leadership roles, delivering excellent service to our customers and driving fantastic growth for the business. We believe that Blackrow is in very good hands for this next phase of its growth.” Tony Booker, Managing Director, said: “Neil, Chris, Darren and Glenn have led Blackrow through periods of both opportunity and challenge and the strength of the business today is testament to their determination to invest continuously in the business’s facilities, people and capabilities. The MBO team are delighted to be given the opportunity to acquire Blackrow and to continue to build and grow this market leading, regional business.” Blackrow and the shareholders were advised by corporate finance advisers, Dow Schofield Watts (Roger Esler, Paul Herriott, Jonathan Wilkinson, Mike Barker), legal advisers, Andrew Jackson Solicitors (Andrew Funnell, Jon Croft, Adrian West) and tax advisers, Tax Advisory Partnership (Russ Cahill). ABN AMRO was advised by Shoosmiths. The MBO team was advised by Wilkin Chapman (Adam Ottley). Roger Esler, corporate finance partner at Dow Schofield Watts, said: “It’s been a pleasure working with Blackrow over several years as the company navigated the challenges of the Covid pandemic to emerge as an even stronger and larger business today, with a fantastic reputation in its target markets and creating a robust platform for the MBO.” Andrew Funnell, head of corporate at Andrew Jackson Solicitors, added: “Blackrow has been through a number of buy-outs in its 40 year history and having been adviser to the company for over 20 years, it is great to see it continue its journey as a management owned business, with this MBO being the culmination of careful succession planning.”
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