Tritax Big Box Developments reshapes leadership team

April Lara
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Tritax Big Box Developments reshapes leadership team

Tritax Big Box Developments, the development division of Tritax Big Box REIT, has appointed Jonathan Wallis as Managing Director, marking a strategic change in its senior leadership. Wallis, who previously headed the company’s Northampton office and served on the TBBD Board, will oversee daily operations and the delivery of logistics developments across the UK.

Andrew Dickman, after 3.5 years as Managing Director, will transition to Chairman of TBBD. In this capacity, he will focus on strategic projects, stakeholder engagement, and client relationships, while continuing to guide the company’s long-term direction alongside Wallis and fellow directors Tom Leeming and Will Oliver.

The leadership restructuring is part of TBBD’s wider growth plan, aimed at ensuring continuity while positioning the business to expand its portfolio of premium logistics space and strengthen its market presence.

Bennett Engineering partners with charity Aquabox to resolve key manufacturing challenge

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Bennett Engineering partners with charity Aquabox to resolve key manufacturing challenge
Bennett Engineering has partnered with Aquabox to design a cutting tool that resolves a key engineering challenge for the charity providing safe drinking water and humanitarian aid to people affected by natural disasters, extreme weather and conflicts. Aquabox provide two solutions, a family filter, capable of filtering water at the rate of one litre per minute, and designed to meet the needs of a typical family group, and a community filter – exactly the same technology, but scaled up to process up to six litres per minute, and designed for schools, clinics and community centres. The magic of the Aquabox filter system is the central core of sub-micron filter membranes which are impenetrable to bacteria and most viruses, and which instantly produce safe, clean water for drinking. The problem is that sometimes the plastic pipe containing the straws has not met the strict tolerances that Aquabox requires. Dominic Wish, trustee of Aquabox, approached Bennett Engineering at the East Midlands Chamber’s Manufacturing Event at Loughborough University to see if they could help. Bennett Engineering designed and manufactured, with partner S.T. Engineering in Ilkeston, a “pencil sharpener.” The cutting tool is designed to shave off some of the external plastic from the pipe without affecting the internal filter. The design means that the pipe cannot be shaved too much as the limit has been set against the exact tolerance Aquabox require. Craig Harbron, director and senior design engineer, Bennett Engineering, said: “Even though this might look simple to design and manufacture a lot of thought has gone into this tool. From the people using it, we knew the volunteer age range to the way the plastic would cut when against the blades were all considered as I put the design together. I am really pleased with the outcome.” Dominic Wish, trustee of Aquabox, said: “The very slightly out-of-tolerance filter components have caused us significant assembly problems resulting in additional scrap.  This simple, but effective, tool allows us to shave a small amount from the outside of the filter membrane component prior to gluing into the assembly. Scrap rates are down, and assembly is much easier – thank you to Bennet Engineering.” Seleena Creedon, director, Bennett Engineering, said: “It’s been our pleasure to help Aquabox with something that might seem small but is clearly crucial to make sure the final filter product is perfect. Aquabox are doing amazing work, we’re proud to have supported them in this small way to carry on getting their life-saving filters out to people who need them.”

Autumn boost for East Midlands economy as business cashflow improves

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Autumn boost for East Midlands economy as business cashflow improves
A late summer fall in the number of East Midlands businesses with overdue creditor payments, as well as a decrease in insolvency-related activity, could indicate a much-needed boost for the local economy heading into the final quarter of 2025. This is according to the Midlands branch of national restructuring, turnaround and insolvency trade body R3, and is based on an analysis of data from business intelligence provider Creditsafe. R3’s figures show that the number of East Midlands businesses with invoices overdue for payment dropped from 25,607 in July to 24,462 in August, while the quantity of debts owed by liquidated firms in the region fell by a sizeable 10.08% over the same time period. There was also a decrease in insolvency-related activity in August compared to August of last year, showing fewer liquidator and administrator appointments as well as creditors’ meetings. R3 Midlands chair Stephen Rome, a partner at Penningtons Manches Cooper in the region, said: “It’s encouraging to see the local economy tightening up on the all-important business cashflow, particularly as there is much speculation about tax rises in the Autumn Budget and how the Government will counter increased spending and a widening fiscal ‘black hole’. “In recent months, however, while we have seen some economic improvements provide companies with a bit of breathing space for growth, there is no doubt that trade remains tough. “R3 would urge any business owners struggling financially to seek advice as early as possible. Most R3 members offer a free initial consultation to explore potential solutions for any significant financial issues.”

Nottingham Building Society appoints non-executive director

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Nottingham Building Society appoints non-executive director
Nottingham Building Society, the mortgages and savings mutual, has appointed Clodagh Gunnigle to its board as a non-executive director, replacing Simon Linares, who will retire from the role in November after six years on the board. A chartered accountant with extensive experience in banking and consumer financial services, Clodagh has held senior leadership roles across finance, credit and risk, before building a portfolio of non-executive appointments. She currently serves on the boards of Alpha Bank London, where she chairs the Remuneration Committee, and Admiral Financial Services, supporting the business as it diversifies into unsecured lending and auto finance. She was also previously on the board of Lowell, where she chaired the Audit and Risk Committee, and is a non-executive director, serving as chair of Audit and Risk, at Sonas, a Domestic Violence charity in Ireland. In her executive career, Clodagh held senior roles with GE Capital and Arrow, gaining deep expertise in governance, transformation, and M&A. She has been instrumental in driving cultural change, improving governance frameworks, and implementing performance and risk management best practice across multiple organisations. Simon Linares joined the Nottingham Building Society’s Board in 2019, bringing a wealth of HR, communications and leadership expertise from roles at Direct Line, O2 Europe, Telefonica, and Diageo. Over the past six years, he has played a key role in shaping the Society’s people strategy and strengthening its culture. Robin Ashton, chair of Nottingham Building Society, said: “We are delighted to welcome Clodagh to the Board. She brings a rare combination of deep technical expertise in finance, credit, and risk with proven experience in transformation and governance across a range of financial services businesses. Her insights will be invaluable as we continue to grow and modernise the Society while staying true to our mutual purpose. “On behalf of the Board, I would also like to thank Simon for his contribution over the past six years. His leadership, strategic insight, and passion for developing people have made a lasting impact on the Society, and we wish him the very best for the future.”

DSP (Interiors) helps grease the wheels of industry with second project for engineering components firm

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DSP (Interiors) helps grease the wheels of industry with second project for engineering components firm
Interior fit-out specialists DSP (Interiors) has completed a second major project for engineering components firm Hayley Dexis. The firm has completed the turnkey design and fit-out of the new Hayley Dexis facility in Burton-on-Trent. Hayley Dexis is a trusted supplier of industrial components and consumables including bearings, seals, power transmission systems, lubricants, PPE and tools. Rapid business growth prompted the need for a larger, more sophisticated facility to meet increased demand and enhance the working environment for staff and clients alike. DSP delivered a comprehensive design-and-build solution, including space planning, bespoke interior finishes, mechanical and electrical works and building control management. The result is a fully customised facility incorporating a dedicated trade counter, open-plan and private offices, breakout area and a purpose-built mezzanine for maximised storage. Garry Waters, manager, said: “We were thrilled to be working with the DSP team again on this project. They did such a fantastic job at our Derby branch, we wanted the same high-quality finish for our Burton site and the results are second to none.” DSP (Interiors) managing director Louisa Priestley said: “We’re incredibly proud to have been invited back to work with Hayley Dexis on their next chapter of growth. It’s always rewarding to build lasting relationships with clients who value quality and trust us to help bring their vision to life. “This project was all about creating a functional, modern space that not only supports operational efficiency but also provides a positive and inspiring environment for the team. We paid close attention to every detail – from the space planning right through to the bespoke finishes – to ensure the final result truly reflected their needs and ambitions. “We’re delighted with the outcome and look forward to continuing our partnership with Hayley Dexis in the future.”

Element Logic UK expands with BS Handling Systems acquisition

April Lara
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Element Logic UK expands with BS Handling Systems acquisition

Element Logic UK has acquired BS Handling Systems, a Leicester-based provider of intralogistics solutions and warehouse fit-outs. The deal strengthens Element Logic UK’s capacity to deliver integrated warehouse automation across the UK and Ireland.

BS Handling Systems brings over 20 years of experience in designing, installing, and servicing conveyors, sortation systems, mezzanine floors, racking, and automated packaging. This expertise complements Element Logic UK’s existing AutoStore® technology and product portfolio, enabling the combined business to offer end-to-end intralogistics solutions.

The acquisition supports Element Logic UK’s strategy to broaden its offerings beyond AutoStore®, addressing growing market demand for fully integrated warehouse solutions. Customers can now access scalable automation services that cover both technology deployment and physical warehouse infrastructure.

From a commercial perspective, the integration aligns Element Logic UK’s technology leadership with BS Handling Systems’ operational capabilities, enhancing service continuity and local expertise. The combined teams aim to streamline warehouse operations for clients and expand capacity for future projects across the region.

This move forms part of Element Logic’s ongoing growth trajectory, reinforcing its position as a leading provider of advanced warehouse automation solutions in Europe. The acquisition highlights a focus on merging global scale with specialised local knowledge to meet evolving intralogistics requirements.

“We are excited to welcome BS Handling Systems to the Element Logic family,” said Scott Torrington, managing director of Element Logic UK and Ireland. “Their strong industry expertise and customer focus aligns well with our goal to innovate warehouse solutions, providing comprehensive in-bound and out-bound services quickly and focusing on delivering value to our customers.” “We are delighted to announce the next step in BS Handling’s journey as we join forces with Element Logic UK,” said Robert Brand-Smith, MD of BS Handling. “This partnership brings together our proven expertise in conveyors, storage and automation, to merge with Element Logic’s global scale and proven innovation, providing full turnkey integrator solutions specifically for the UK and Ireland markets. “For our customers, it means continuity with the same trusted team, combined with even greater capability, resources, and technology with Element Logic UK. For our staff, it opens up exciting new opportunities to grow and develop within one of the top automaton companies in the world. We’re proud of what we’ve built to date, and the future with Element is going to be extraordinary. We are all very excited for the journey ahead!”

TSC Simulation secures six-figure funding to expand operations

April Lara
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TSC Simulation secures six-figure funding to expand operations

Nottingham-based TSC Simulation has received a six-figure investment from the Midlands Engine Investment Fund II, managed in the East and South East Midlands by Maven Capital Partners. The funding comes via the British Business Bank and is aimed at supporting the company’s growth, software development, team expansion, and new product launches.

Founded in 1978, TSC develops operator training simulators and high-fidelity simulation platforms used across multiple industrial sectors, including oil and gas, nuclear, utilities, food production, and pharmaceuticals. Its systems replicate real-world plant and control operations to enhance safety, performance, and decision-making. TSC’s simulators are deployed in more than 30 countries and are used by major clients, as well as educational institutions delivering standardised industry training programmes and emergency response courses.

The company is introducing simulation tools aligned with renewable energy applications, including hydrogen production, in response to growing demand from the education and industry sectors. TSC remains a family-owned business, led by CEO Andrew Bolton, who succeeded founder Michael Bolton in 2022.

The Midlands Engine Investment Fund II, with a total capital of £400 million, provides equity investments up to £5 million and debt financing from £25,000 to £2 million for small and medium-sized businesses across the Midlands region. The fund has previously supported multiple regional businesses seeking to scale operations, develop new products, or innovate within their sectors.

Jobs lost as SOS Wholesale enters administration

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Jobs lost as SOS Wholesale enters administration
SOS Wholesale Ltd, based in Derby, has fallen into administration, with the majority of the company’s 100 employees being made redundant. SOS Wholesale is a discount delivered wholesaler that supplies consumer goods to convenience, discount, independent, major multiple, and garden centre retailers in the UK and Ireland. Founded in 1996, the business has grown to become one of the largest wholesalers in the country, providing an extensive range of branded products, including groceries, soft drinks, toiletries, household goods, and confectionary from its warehouse and distribution centre in Derby, and supported by its sales team in Barnsley. In recent months, the business had suffered many of the challenges facing the retail supply chain, including rising input costs and changing consumer spending habits. With cashflow and profitability under pressure, the business was unable to meet its financial obligations as they fell due, and so the directors took the decision to place the business into administration. Rick Harrison and Howard Smith from Interpath were appointed joint administrators to SOS Wholesale Ltd on 8 September. Trading at the business has now ceased, and the majority of the company’s 100 employees have been made redundant. A small number of staff have been retained to assist the joint administrators in their duties as they explore options, including launching a sale process for the business and its assets. Rick Harrison, managing director at Interpath and joint administrator, said: “The retail sector is currently facing a number of challenges which are being felt throughout the supply chain. While SOS Wholesale had established itself as one of the largest wholesalers in the market, the challenges it faced and the impact on its finances proved insurmountable. “Regrettably, the business was not in a position to continue trading and the majority of staff have been made redundant. We urgently call on any interested parties to come forward as we explore options for a possible sale of the business and its assets. We are also prioritising support to those employees impacted by redundancy, including supporting them in making claims to the Redundancy Payments Service.”

SOCOTEC UK and Ireland swoops for Lloyds Datum Group

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SOCOTEC UK and Ireland swoops for Lloyds Datum Group
Burton-based SOCOTEC UK and Ireland has acquired Belfast-headquartered Lloyds Datum Group (LDG), experts in foundation testing, structural monitoring, geotechnical and environmental systems.
The strategic acquisition enhances SOCOTEC’s capabilities in the infrastructure field, with LDG’s expertise expanding SOCOTEC’s overall offering, as well as marking further growth into the island of Ireland and SOCOTEC’s first office in Northern Ireland. LDG comprises of both Lloyd Acoustics Limited and Datum Monitoring Ireland Limited. Alongside utilising SOCOTEC’s experience to enhance client offerings in Ireland, there are also plans to utilise LDG’s expertise increasingly within the rest of the UK, primarily to complex foundation and micro-piling projects.
Matthew Marriott, CEO, SOCOTEC UK & Ireland, said: “This acquisition of Lloyds Datum Group is the next step of our growth strategy and the expansion of our Infrastructure capabilities across the UK and Ireland. “Following our second Scottish acquisition in two years, our first major acquisition in Ireland marks the next stage of expanding our geographical footprint, doubling our overall office space in Ireland, and demonstrating our commitment to continue investing in this important area.”

Nigel Dillon, managing director, Lloyds Datum Group, said: “Partnering with SOCOTEC UK and Ireland gives LDG an incredible platform from which to expand and deliver an enhanced service offering to our clients.

“With our Belfast HQ and Dublin office in place, we are looking forward to becoming part of SOCOTEC’s presence on the island of Ireland, and building upon our existing legacy, while accessing wider resources and expertise.”
Nigel Dillon will continue in his position to lead LDG under the new SOCOTEC ownership.

ANS strengthens AI and data capabilities with Makutu acquisition

April Lara
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ANS strengthens AI and data capabilities with Makutu acquisition

Manchester-based technology consultancy ANS has acquired Derby firm Makutu, a specialist in data engineering and AI solutions. The transaction brings 25 data and AI professionals into ANS, expanding its capacity to deliver enterprise-scale data platforms.

Makutu, founded in 2020, provides services across Microsoft Fabric readiness, OneLake migration, predictive analytics, and IoT integration. Its client base includes local authorities, housing providers, utilities, and retail organisations. The consultancy has been recognised as a leading emerging player by industry analysts.

The acquisition reinforces ANS’s focus on Microsoft technologies. The company employs more than 100 certified Microsoft specialists, including four Most Valuable Professionals, and was named Microsoft Services Partner of the Year in 2024.

Following its 2022 purchase of Dynamics 365 consultancy Preact, ANS continues a strategy of combining selective acquisitions with internal growth. Makutu’s expertise in AI and real-time data is expected to enhance ANS’s ability to support organisations across sectors with scalable, data-driven technology solutions.

Radcliffe on Trent scheme connects new homeowners with local businesses

April Lara
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Radcliffe on Trent scheme connects new homeowners with local businesses

A new initiative in Radcliffe on Trent is linking incoming residents with independent businesses in the village.

Spitfire Homes, a Midlands-based developer, has launched its Gold Card programme at Sherbourne, its first Nottingham housing collection. The scheme gives new homeowners access to offers from local retailers, hospitality venues, and leisure providers, with businesses able to set their own promotions at no cost.

Early partners include Radcliffe Golf Club, Lisa’s Barber Shop, The Flower Shop, One More Chapter Bookshop, Ava Joyce Ladies Boutique, and Fruitlicious Fruit and Veg Shop. The programme aims to increase footfall for local traders while helping new residents integrate into the community.

The Sherbourne development will also contribute more than £2 million to local infrastructure, including £450,000 for highways and transport improvements and £870,000 to expand Radcliffe-on-Trent Infant and Junior Schools.

The Gold Card scheme remains open to additional local businesses. Spitfire Homes is actively seeking new partners to expand the programme and strengthen community engagement.

Derbyshire businesses call for final teams to join charity golf day helping families in need

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Derbyshire businesses call for final teams to join charity golf day helping families in need
Two Derbyshire businesses are calling on local firms to sign up for a charity golf day later this month, with just a few team places remaining. South Normanton-based strategic marketing agency Purpose Media and Derby-headquartered S. O’Brien Heating Solutions are teaming up for a second year to host the event at Morley Hayes on 24th September, in aid of Miles for Smiles. Building on last year’s success, which raised £15,000 for the European team competing in the Cairn’s Cup, the ‘Ryder Cup of disabled golf’, organisers are aiming to generate even more vital funds this time around. This year, proceeds will support Miles for Smiles, a local charity which has raised more than £380,000 since 2016, providing grants and memorable experiences to 379 families and organisations affected by disabilities, life-changing and life-limiting conditions across South Derbyshire, East Staffordshire and North West Leicestershire. “After the tremendous success of last year, we’re excited to be hosting the golf day again. We have just a few places left, and we’d love to see more businesses and groups get involved. It’s a fantastic opportunity to enjoy a day of golf, while supporting a charity that makes a real difference to so many families,” said Steve O’Brien, owner of S. O ‘Brien Heating Solutions. Matt Wheatcroft, managing director of Purpose Media, added: “Sport has the power to bring people together, and by taking part in this event, businesses can enjoy a great day out while also helping Miles for Smiles continue its incredible work. “Our experience last year shows that businesses in our region are prepared to do their bit for a good cause and we’re certain that, once again, they will want to be a part of such a positive initiative.” It costs £400 per team of four to take part in the golf day, which will include breakfast, a two-course dinner and awards ceremony, as well as competitions throughout the day, including longest drive and closest to the pin. To book one of the remaining spaces, visit: https://www.purposemedia.co.uk/purpose-media-golf-day-2025

Tourism drives £2.53 billion into Nottinghamshire economy

April Lara
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Tourism drives £2.53 billion into Nottinghamshire economy

Tourism in Nottinghamshire generated £2.53 billion in economic impact in 2024/25, representing a 6.7 percent increase compared with the previous year. The sector attracted 34.96 million visitors and supported more than 22,500 jobs across the county.

Visitor spend was led by retail, accounting for over a third of the total at £1.89 billion. Food and drink contributed £0.53 billion, while accommodation and recreation grew steadily, with hotels and guesthouses increasing 7.4 percent. Transport and other related expenditures also rose, highlighting the broad economic benefits of tourism across multiple sectors.

Marketing and public relations activity played a key role in driving growth. Visit Nottinghamshire reported a total audience reach of 765 million, generating an advertising value equivalent of £7.34 million. Coverage included domestic and international media features on cultural, historical, and sporting attractions.

Digital engagement continued to expand, with the Visit Nottinghamshire website recording 4.49 million views, social media campaigns reaching 4.1 million users, and newsletters connecting with 41,000 subscribers. The Nottingham Tourism Centre welcomed over 100,000 visitors, providing guidance, accessibility support, and local retail services that contributed to extended stays and higher spending.

Visit Nottinghamshire is now preparing a 10-year Destination Management Plan focused on sustainable growth, sector innovation, and raising international profile to further strengthen Nottingham and Nottinghamshire’s position as a leading visitor destination.

Derby IT firm expands team to support growing school network

April Lara
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Derby IT firm expands team to support growing school network

Derby-based L.E.A.D. IT Services has expanded its workforce to meet rising demand from schools and academy trusts across the UK. The company provides IT support, equipment supply, and technology installation to education and business clients.

The firm recently added three full-time staff, bringing its total number of employees to 64, with further recruitment planned. The new team members include a field technician, a digital marketing officer, and an office administrator, all entering their first full-time roles after completing apprenticeships or college.

L.E.A.D. IT supports over 200 schools nationwide, providing full IT helpdesk services and installing advanced classroom technology such as interactive Smartboards. These systems allow teachers to store lessons digitally and enable pupils to access homework via QR codes, reducing reliance on printed materials.

The expansion aligns with increasing demand for educational technology and digital infrastructure, with the company continuing to grow its services across Derby, the wider Midlands, and other regions of the UK.

WBR Group strengthens SSAS team with duo of appointments

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WBR Group strengthens SSAS team with duo of appointments
WBR Group, the independent provider of SSAS administration and integrated professional services, has appointed Jenni Harland to director of SSAS operations and Abigail House as SSAS proposition manager. Jenni joined WBR in July 2021 as pensions operations leader, bringing with her over nine years of SSAS experience, having previously held roles at Talbot and Muir and The Pensions Partnership. Jenni has looked after a large portfolio of SSASs during her time at WBR Group and her knowledge has enabled her to deal with many cases of a complex nature, which has expanded her technical skills across all aspects of SSAS. Since joining WBR, Jenni has risen through the ranks before her promotion to director of SSAS operations. In her new role, Jenni will manage WBR’s SSAS Pension Operations and New Business team. Abigail joins WBR with over 15 years of experience within the financial services sector. She started her career at Lloyds TSB, before moving to HSBC and more recently Abigail was head of strategy & propositions at Alltrust. Throughout her career, Abigail has collaborated with product, marketing, compliance, and transformation teams to align propositions with regulatory requirements, market trends, and evolving customer expectations. Abigail will be reporting to Caitlin Southall, director of SSAS transformation and proposition, continuing to strengthen WBR’s SSAS proposition. Tom Moore, CEO, WBR Group, said: “We’re proud to welcome Abigail to the team and to see Jenni step into this well deserved leadership role. Their combined expertise and energy will be instrumental as we continue to scale our SSAS proposition and deliver the high standards of service and innovation our clients expect. These appointments reflect our ongoing investment in talent and our commitment to remaining the UK’s leading independent SSAS provider.” Jenni Harland, director of SSAS operations, said: “It’s a privilege to take on this new role at such an exciting time for WBR Group. I’ve had the pleasure of working alongside an exceptional team over the past four years, and I’m looking forward to leading our operations as we continue to grow, innovate, and deliver outstanding outcomes for our clients.” Abigail House, SSAS proposition manager, said: “Joining WBR Group is a fantastic opportunity to help shape the future of its SSAS proposition. I’m eager to collaborate with the team to develop solutions that meet the evolving needs of our clients and advisers, and to build on WBR’s strong reputation in the market.”

Major demolition works underway as regeneration of Northampton’s town centre gathers pace

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Major demolition works underway as regeneration of Northampton’s town centre gathers pace
Major demolition works are now well under way at Northampton’s 35–45 Abington Street as the regeneration of the town centre gathers pace. The removal of long-vacant buildings, including the former M&S, BHS, and Job Centre, is clearing the way for a new development that will bring modern homes, retail, and leisure opportunities to the heart of the town. Specialist contractor Colemans has completed key preparatory works, including internal soft strip, services disconnection, and the safe removal of asbestos. Hoarding and scaffolding have been installed along Abington Street and Wellington Street, and heavy machinery, including 40-tonne and 70-tonne excavators, has now entered the site to begin mechanical demolition, initially focusing on the former M&S building. Cllr James Petter, cabinet member for local economy, culture and leisure at West Northamptonshire Council, said: “Colemans have made excellent progress so far to carefully deconstruct these long-vacant buildings, overcoming complex challenges such as asbestos removal and site preparation, and we’re now seeing the physical transformation take shape. “This phase of works is all about preparing the site ready for a developer to come on board and deliver a vibrant scheme that will bring much-needed housing, modern retail and leisure spaces, and a more attractive public realm. “It’s a bold step forward in our long-term strategy to revitalise Northampton, support local businesses, and attract new investment. I’m proud of the work being done and excited for what’s to come.” James Doherty, project manager for Colemans, said: “We’re pleased with the progress made so far, with the safe delivery of heavy machinery to site marking an important milestone. “Our team is now carrying out the careful deconstruction of the buildings using a combination of precision equipment and controlled sequencing. “This approach allows us to safely remove each structure while keeping the site secure and disruption to a minimum. “It’s a privilege to support the council’s vision and help create a clear, ready site for the next stage of Northampton’s regeneration.” Once demolition is complete, the site will be transformed into a residential-led development with flexible ground-floor units for retail and leisure.

Sandyford enters East Midlands with Derbyshire industrial estate purchase

April Lara
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Sandyford enters East Midlands with Derbyshire industrial estate purchase

Sandyford Properties has acquired Salcombe Road Industrial Estate in Alfreton, Derbyshire, marking its first investment in the East Midlands. The 35,300 sq ft multi-let estate comprises 16 units ranging from 1,550 sq ft to 3,100 sq ft.

The estate was purchased at auction for £2.5 million from Derbyshire County Council, which had owned the property since its original development. It generates a gross rental income of £203,114 annually, with potential to increase in line with market trends. The units feature steel portal frame construction, brick and block elevations, high eaves, roller shutters, and a large forecourt with dedicated parking.

Sandyford plans refurbishment and proactive asset management across the estate. Salcombe Road Industrial Estate benefits from direct access to the M1 motorway and strong connectivity to Derby, Nottingha,m and Mansfield.

The acquisition extends Sandyford’s portfolio beyond Staffordshire and Cheshire and positions the company for further growth in the region. FHP acted as advisor and will manage lettings, while Hill Dickinson provided legal counsel.

Double letting for event production specialist in Castle Donington

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Double letting for event production specialist in Castle Donington
On Event Production Co., a live, virtual and hybrid event production specialist, has let Units 27 and 28 at Trent Lane Industrial Estate. The deal sees On expand its footprint on Trent Lane Industrial Estate, where it is headquartered, enhancing its capacity to deliver large-scale event productions and bespoke scenic fabrication projects. The acquisition of two further 10,500 sq ft units will allow the company to scale its operations, increase workshop capacity, and further develop its technical and scenic production services. Brokered by Thomas Szymkiw, NG Chartered Surveyors’ head of agency, the lettings were arranged on behalf of a private landlord client. Thomas Szymkiw said: “We are delighted to welcome On Event Production Co. to Units 27 and 28 at Trent Lane Industrial Estate. Their move underscores the appeal of modern, flexible space in highly connected locations. It also reflects the ongoing strength of demand from creative and logistics-focused businesses across the East Midlands.”

East Midlands has emerging employment hub shows PwC Good Growth for Cities Index

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East Midlands has emerging employment hub shows PwC Good Growth for Cities Index
The 2025 Demos-PwC Good Growth for Cities Index indicates that the East Midlands has an emerging employment hub, with Derby and Lincoln both performing above average for jobs, measured by unemployment rates. Leicester and Northampton all performed above the UK average for the number of new businesses established per head. Lincoln ranks 20th in this year’s Index due to improvements in job opportunities, higher   educational attainment for 16 to 24 year olds, and more equal income distribution, compared to last year. Nottingham was the lowest performing city in the region, ranking 40th. The Index ranks 50 of the UK’s largest cities, excluding London, based on both the public’s assessment and the actual performance of 12 economic measures, which this year, in order of public importance, were: income; income distribution; safety; work-life balance; health; jobs; housing; environment; transport; high streets; skills and new businesses. The higher the city scores on the public’s top priorities, the better the city performs on the Index. Financial measures such as income and jobs have previously led in their importance to the public by a wide margin, but results from this year’s survey reveal a rise in the importance of non-financial measures. Skills, high streets, housing and transport have all risen on the public agenda. Income and income distribution remain the top two priorities but have seen their sharpest year-on-year decline. The East Midlands performance  The six Good Growth Cities in the East Midlands generally performed below the national average when measured against public priorities. Rankings in the Index are as follows:
  • Lincoln: ranked 20th (24th last year)
  • Derby: ranked 24th (23rd last year)
  • Leicester: ranked 32nd (20th last year)
  • Northampton: ranked 36th (39th last year)
  • Nottingham: ranked 40th (25th last year)
Alex Hudson, market senior partner, East Midlands at PwC, said: “The Index findings present a compelling narrative of transformation and opportunity within the East Midlands. The emergence of Derby and Lincoln as employment hubs underscores the region’s growing influence in the UK’s economic landscape. “The entrepreneurial spirit thriving in cities like Leicester and Northampton further highlights the dynamism and resilience of our local business community. Despite varied performances across the region, these insights are a useful tool for policymakers, investors, and business leaders to address existing challenges and leverage strengths to encourage inclusive growth. “By championing initiatives that support skill development, equitable income distribution, and enhanced infrastructure, we can cultivate a robust and sustainable economic future for the East Midlands – the opportunity is clear.” How other cities in the UK performed  York is the highest performing city in the Index, with Edinburgh rising to second place and Bristol in third place. These cities scored highly across high streets, skills, and jobs which are key indicators of prosperity that the public increasingly values. York ranked among the top three cities for both high street and jobs.

Gi Group helps 50% of candidates secure new roles in seven days

April Lara
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Gi Group helps 50% of candidates secure new roles in seven days

Gi Group UK, part of Gi Group Holding, has helped 50% of unemployed and redundant candidates in the East Midlands secure new roles within a week of first contact.

The region recorded an unemployment rate of five percent from March to May 2025, the third highest in the UK. Candidates have been connected with employers across manufacturing, logistics, industrial, pharmaceutical, engineering, and automotive sectors, supporting workforce continuity during periods of job transition.

Working alongside its sister brand, INTOO UK & Ireland, Gi Group provides career coaching, financial guidance, CV development, and outplacement services. Redundancy is viewed as an opportunity for upskilling, enabling individuals to transition into new roles with confidence.

From Nottingham, Gi Group engages with a network of 25 local businesses. Across the UK, it employs around 240 staff in 69 locations, supporting over 1,000 clients.

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