Gateley to support Go Beyond as Nottingham charity partner

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Gateley to support Go Beyond as Nottingham charity partner
Professional services group Gateley has named Go Beyond as the chosen charity partner for its Nottingham office, following an internal nomination and voting process. The charity, which has a centre in Daleside in Derbyshire, gives children and young people aged 8-13 facing serious challenges in their lives the opportunity to experience a week-long break in the outdoors intended to encourage self-belief and inspire adventure. Many of the children and young people supported by the charity have been bereaved, abused or bullied, or are living in poverty or caring for loved ones. In 2024, the charity provided more than 1,000 breaks with the ambition of giving attendees the chance to escape their worries and pressures and give them the experiences they need to increase their self-belief and see the world in a different light. As part of the partnership, Gateley will host a series of fundraising activities throughout the year in a bid to raise crucial funds to support the hosting of future breaks. In addition, the office will also arrange volunteering days for colleagues to help with the renovation of existing spaces and support wherever else it may be needed. Go Beyond’s summer fundraising campaign “Ice Cream Moments” encourages people to donate £3.50 – the average cost of a scooped treat – to go towards their residential breaks. To support this, Gateley recently paid for an ice cream van to visit its office, with colleagues and other local businesses asked to donate to Go Beyond instead of paying for their frozen delight. Helen Burgess, partner at Gateley, said: “We are very proud to be supporting Go Beyond as our chosen office charity this year. With so many colleagues in the office also parents of young children, they were the overwhelming choice of the team who are in awe of the incredible work they do to help children and their families, as well as providing opportunities to spend time in nature.” Vanessa Fairfax-Woods, business development manager at Go Beyond, added: “Go Beyond are thrilled that Gateley have chosen to support us as their charity partner. They have started strong and thrown themselves into fundraising for us with Ice Cream Moments and some challenge events. They are already making a difference to children who desperately need a break.”

Nottingham CRO Platelet Services appoints director of business development

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Nottingham CRO Platelet Services appoints director of business development
Nottingham-based contract research organisation (CRO) Platelet Services has appointed Payash Bahuguna as director of business development in order to drive growth for the company’s platelet function testing services. Platelet Services is a contract research organisation providing full-range pre-clinical services in platelet testing, supporting both small biotech companies and large pharmaceutical corporations worldwide in drug discovery and development. With decades of collective expertise, the company continues to expand its capabilities in assay development and high-throughput testing formats to better serve early-stage research. As director of business development, Payash will bring a unique blend of scientific expertise and commercial acumen to the role. She has extensive experience in marketing and business partnerships spanning drug discovery contract research, artificial intelligence, and academic sectors. Her professional journey with platelets began nearly a decade ago at Platelet Solutions, a University of Nottingham spin-out company. Holding a Master’s degree in Biotechnology and Business Entrepreneurship from the University of Nottingham and accreditation as a Chartered Marketer, Payash will focus on identifying new business opportunities, building strategic partnerships, and driving company growth. Natalia Dovlatova, CEO of Platelet Services, said: “It is a pleasure to welcome Payash to the Platelet Services team. Some of us had the chance to work alongside her at Platelet Solutions, so we know first-hand the skill, business expertise and enthusiasm she brings. “I am confident that Payash’s experience and energy will play a key role in strengthening our relationships with clients and opening new doors for future collaboration.”

Midlands mid-market outperforms expectations but challenges persist

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Midlands mid-market outperforms expectations but challenges persist
Midlands mid-sized businesses are reporting stronger-than-expected performance in 2025, fuelled by resilient customer demand, AI adoption and an improving skills outlook, according to the latest Economic Engine research from accounting and business advisory firm, BDO. The survey of over 500 mid-sized business leaders shows more than three-quarters (76%) have already beaten growth targets set at the start of the year, with one-fifth (20%) saying they have significantly exceeded expectations. Better-than-expected staff recruitment and retention (49%) and rising customer demand (47%) were key drivers of outperformance, supported by productivity gains from technology and AI (43%). This positive trading picture is translating into continued capital commitment. Over half (51%) are holding investment steady, with more than a third (37)% stepping it up. Only one in 10 (11%) are delaying or scaling back UK investment. These figures suggest regional companies are backing their own pipelines and balance sheets, even as wider economic sentiment remains subdued. Despite their strong performance, confidence in the UK as a place to grow remains limited for some Midlands businesses. Nearly two-fifths (39%) of mid-sized companies surveyed describe the UK as a “strong environment” for long-term business growth, while 61% say conditions have become more challenging. One in five (20%) are already shifting operations or investment overseas. That caution reflects persistent structural pressures. On workforce issues, a third (33%) cite plugging skills gaps as their biggest challenge. Rising wage expectations are another significant pressure (17%), reflecting the ongoing effects of inflation and higher National Insurance contributions. Operationally, managing supply chain disruption is one of the most pressing barriers to growth (24%). At the same time, while AI is seen as a driver of productivity, more than a quarter of Midlands companies (26%) cite adopting new technologies as a challenge, highlighting the uneven pace of digital transformation across the mid-market. To fuel their growth, Midlands mid-sized businesses are looking to secure new investment or finance (53%) and investing in automation, technology or AI (51%). A further 36% are launching new products or services. Kyla Bellingall, regional managing partner at BDO in the Midlands, said: “These findings highlight the strength of the Midland’s mid-market – businesses are delivering growth and continuing to invest despite challenging conditions. But they also carry a warning; confidence in the UK as a place to scale is not guaranteed. “With mid-sized businesses continuing to contribute significantly to the regional economy, creating a wealth of additional jobs to boost the future outlook in the Midlands, the government will want to use the Autumn Budget to reassure this segment of the market and address persistent barriers around skills, costs and competitiveness. Only with the mid-market firmly and confidently anchored in the Midlands, will we see the growth the regional economy needs.”

G F Tomlinson secures position on NEUPC refurbishment framework for the Midlands

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G F Tomlinson secures position on NEUPC refurbishment framework for the Midlands
Midlands-based contractor, G F Tomlinson, has been appointed to the North Eastern Universities Purchasing Consortium (NEUPC) ‘Building Refurbishment Services’ framework for Lot 4C – Midlands region. The contractor will be covering refurbishment projects valued between £4 million and £10 million across higher education and public sectors throughout the East and West Midlands as part of the framework, which will run for an initial four-year term from June 2025 to June 2029, with the potential for a two-year extension. The NEUPC framework provides a procurement route for refurbishment works to a wide range of public sector institutions, including universities, further education colleges and schools, NHS Trusts, charities, and other public sector bodies that are members of the consortia. G F Tomlinson is one of only two contractors appointed to the £4m – £10m Midlands Lot. Works under the framework will cover all aspects of refurbishment typically required in university and education buildings. These include improvements to laboratories, lecture theatres, libraries, commercial kitchens, accommodation, meeting and conference rooms, and plant areas. Adrian Grocock, managing director at G F Tomlinson, said: “We are delighted to have been successful in our bid for the new NEUPC Framework. Being appointed to Lot 4C in the Midlands reflects our continued commitment to quality, safety, and adding social value through our work. “This framework opens the door to some of the region’s most respected educational and public sector clients, and we are proud to be part of a collaborative approach that supports sustainable, impactful refurbishment of vital educational infrastructure. “This appointment builds on our extensive track record with clients such as the University of Nottingham, Nottingham Trent University, University of Lincoln, Keele University and Nottingham College.” Andy Hughes, deputy head of operational procurement and category manager at NEUPC, said: “We are pleased to award a long-term framework that is open to all members of the NEUPC, covering a diverse range of requirements in refurbishment works that we hope will provide savings as well as quality work for our members.”

CEO of Corby-based Cambridge Nutritional Foods announces retirement

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CEO of Corby-based Cambridge Nutritional Foods announces retirement
The CEO of Cambridge Nutritional Foods (CNF), Chris McDermott, is to retire after 22 years with the business. McDermott is set to retire from the Corby-based, employee-owned business in January 2026 and will be succeeded by Ashley Farmer, the current chief commercial officer. CNF has experienced significant growth under McDermott’s leadership, by expanding its brand portfolio from The 1:1 Diet (formerly Cambridge Weight Plan) to include the launch of women’s wellbeing brand Serenova and food product development & manufacturing provider Food Nutrition Partners. McDermott joined the business as PR manager for The 1:1 Diet in 2003, working his way up to business development director in 2012 before becoming CEO in 2015 – heading up CNF for the last 10 years. He said: “Working at CNF has been the most extraordinary adventure of my life, and it has been the greatest privilege to lead this business. Its most important element to me has always been its people, and I am grateful to all those I have met and the achievements we have made together. “I wanted to create the best possible environment to make this decision, knowing that the business would be in the best position to move on to the next level. “Ashley has made a significant difference to the business and has brought a huge amount of drive, energy and financial rigour to all of our commercial functions. With his strong leadership in place and an exciting new strategy, I am confident in this exciting next chapter in the history of CNF as he takes the business to new heights.” Farmer joined CNF in 2023, with more than 10 years’ experience in direct selling businesses, to unify sales, marketing, product, and the digital functions of the company. He said: “Chris has steered the business through some pivotal moments, and I know that his passion, drive, and skill has delivered so much to our customers and stakeholders, and I would like to thank him personally for that. “We are entering a new chapter with a bold vision to shape a future of lasting growth and success, so I am extremely proud to be taking on the role of CEO as we continue to grow from one brand into multiple businesses. “I am excited to get started, accelerate progress to deliver success, and build an exciting new future for CNF.”

Invicta Holdings acquires Spaldings Group

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Invicta Holdings acquires Spaldings Group

Invicta Holdings Limited, listed on the JSE, has completed the purchase of UK distributor Spaldings Limited for R282.2 million through its subsidiary, Invicta Global Holdings Limited. The acquisition took effect on 1 September 2025.

Spaldings, established in 1954 and based in Lincoln, Lincolnshire, supplies agricultural and ground care replacement parts and machinery. The company reported a net profit of £526,838 for the year ending 31 December 2024. Annual profits for 2025 are projected between £1.4 million and £1.6 million, with a net asset value of £4.5 million at the end of 2024.

The deal aligns with Invicta’s plan to expand internationally in markets where it has sector experience and management capacity. The acquisition is expected to support growth in Invicta’s global replacement parts and engineering business, enhance procurement efficiency, and broaden the product range. Funding will come from Invicta’s existing cash reserves.

The transaction is classified as a category 2 acquisition under JSE Listings Requirements and does not require shareholder approval.

David Fox, non-executive chair at Spaldings, said: “In Invicta Holdings, we have found a like-minded business that has significant expertise in our core markets – individuals who have shown great desire to support Spaldings in the next phase of our growth journey, while backing the existing management team to achieve those ambitions.” Law firm Mills & Reeve advised on the sale of the holding company of the Spaldings Group to Invicta Holdings. The Mills & Reeve team acted for the sellers, Inspirit Capital and the management shareholders of the Lincoln-based company. The team was led by corporate partner and head of international Tom Pickthorn and principal associate Hayley Simonds, with support from Ashley Kerr. Hayley Simonds said: “Spaldings is a company with a rich heritage and strong footprint – not only in the East Midlands, but also in the agricultural sector. This deal is not only a significant milestone in the company’s growth journey, but also demonstrates the ongoing appeal of high performing regional businesses to acquisitive overseas buyers.”

Currys posts sales growth and announces £50m share buyback

April Lara
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Currys posts sales growth and announces £50m share buyback

Currys has reported a strong start to its financial year, with growth across the UK, Ireland and Nordic markets. Like-for-like revenue in the UK and Ireland rose three per cent during the 17 weeks to 30 August, supported by double-digit increases in categories such as gaming, AI computing and large domestic appliances. Sales of cooling products and coffee machines remained steady, while demand for televisions, tablets and air fryers declined.

The retailer’s recurring services continued to expand, with customer credit adoption reaching 23.3 per cent and iD Mobile subscribers growing 22 per cent year-on-year to 2.3 million. Margins in the UK stayed stable despite ongoing cost pressures, with higher sales volumes providing operating leverage.

Currys also announced a £50 million share buyback alongside a £25 million dividend, raising total shareholder returns to £75 million. The company reported a reduced pension deficit, down from £403 million in 2022 to £134 million, with contributions expected to fall significantly from 2026.

The update comes amid a challenging high street environment. The retailer experienced a website outage following extended maintenance, while shares have dropped roughly 12 per cent since July, though they remain around 20 per cent higher year-to-date. Analysts have warned that slowing wage growth could weigh on retailers in the coming months, but Currys maintains a positive outlook.

Grantham outlet development set to begin in 2026

April Lara
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Grantham outlet development set to begin in 2026

Construction on a £100m designer outlet near Grantham is scheduled to start in 2026, with completion expected by 2028. The development will feature 137 retail units and is projected to create more than 1,200 jobs, including roles in retail and hospitality.

Planning permission for the Grantham Designer Outlet Village was granted by South Kesteven District Council in 2017. The project experienced multiple delays, attributed to factors such as the Covid-19 pandemic, supply chain disruption linked to the Ukraine conflict, and rising inflation.

The site is strategically located on the A1, providing strong transport links for visitors and logistics. Developers plan to include additional services, such as hotels, to complement the retail offering and support local employment.

Local council representatives have highlighted a need for industrial and high-tech business space in the area, noting that the site could alternatively support business growth and advanced manufacturing facilities.

The development is expected to become a regional attraction, providing economic benefits to Grantham and the wider Lincolnshire area, while contributing to the local jobs market and commercial infrastructure.

Autopack hits the acquisition trail with deal to buy Nottingham namesake

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Autopack hits the acquisition trail with deal to buy Nottingham namesake
Independent integrator of packaging lines Autopack has bought Nottingham-based Autopak Machinery, a designer and manufacturer of bespoke bag filling and handling equipment. The move furthers Autopack’s capabilities in the flexible packaging market and continues to build its wider offer in processing and packaging lines for businesses across the UK. Autopak Machinery will be rebranded as APM and the move follows the retirement of the company’s founder Aubrey Davies. The management team will remain in place and Autopack’s strategy is to invest in new product development. “This acquisition of APM is another piece in our strategy to become a one-stop-shop for our customers,” said Autopack Managing Director Wayne Kedward. “Keeping in place the current management team is central to our plan to grow the business and maintain the promise to our customers; we give quality advice with quality machinery.” With its headquarters in Hereford, Autopack is an independent supplier of packaging and processing machinery to the food, drink, chemical, cleaning and personal care sectors. The deal with APM is its third acquisition and brings the total turnover of the group to £17m. In 2020, it bought Spanish flexible packaging equipment specialists Postpack. This was followed by the addition of Gainsborough-based engineering business Technosys. “Every packaging line that we deliver is underpinned by our approach to building lasting partnerships with our customers,” added Wayne Kedward. “This drives our success, and our team bring their invaluable knowledge to each and every project that they work on. “The addition of the APM team not only brings the number of employees across the group up to 58, but it also further enhances our extensive technical knowledge, ensuring that we remain the UK’s leading independent integrator of packaging and processing lines.” “Autopack’s strategy and immense experience bodes well for the future of APM,” added Aubrey Davies. “I’m delighted that our management team will be on hand to work on a wide range of projects. It’s also a huge boost that investment will be at the heart of Autopack’s strategy as the business focuses on delivering for a growing range of flexible and rigid packaging customers.”

Burton industrial property sold to local investor

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Burton industrial property sold to local investor
Rushton Hickman has sold a vacant industrial property to a local investor. The warehouse premises consists of 7,402 sq ft of space with an external yard area of 0.26 acres and is situated in a prominent position on the B5017 (Shobnall Road), which allows access to Burton upon Trent town centre and is within two miles of the A38 trunk road. The property was originally home to a multi-disciplinary contractor, but since it became vacant, the owner was advised on how to proceed, allowing for maximum return without capital expenditure. Taylor Millington, senior surveyor at Rushton Hickman, who brokered the deal, said: “Although the premises required a lot of internal and external works, this was a rare opportunity to acquire industrial space in Burton upon Trent. “Upon marketing we received a lot of interest from investors and owner occupiers looking at the site for income and development purposes. The successful sale of this property highlights that the industrial market in Burton and the surrounding areas continues to be strong.” The purchaser, Aden Woodward, director of Woodward Property (Midlands) Limited, said: “The property in now undergoing renovation and we will either use it for our Woodward Group HQ or look to lease the property. We will be sure to use the Rushton Hickman team to either lease our existing building or this new unit.”

Nottingham Building Society appoints new chief internal audit officer

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Nottingham Building Society appoints new chief internal audit officer
Nottingham Building Society, the mortgages and savings mutual, has appointed Riaan Thiart as its new permanent chief internal audit officer. Riaan initially joined the 176-year-old mutual in March 2025 as a strategic advisor in an interim capacity following Sally Gaudion’s move into the chief customer officer role. In his position, he is responsible for providing independent assurance to the board and executive team, ensuring a robust third line of defence on matters of corporate governance, risk management and internal control. With over 28 years’ experience, Riaan has successfully led multi-national internal audit functions and implemented effective governance frameworks across complex financial services organisations. His career includes senior roles at Nationwide Building Society and Old Mutual PLC, as well as serving as managing director of Prelude Business Solutions Ltd, an advisory business focusing on assurance, programme management and process improvement. A certified internal auditor and Prince II practitioner, he has also previously acted as interim group internal audit director at Old Mutual, chief internal auditor for the Skandia Group across the Nordics, Europe and Latin America, and acting chief internal auditor for the Nedbank Group, one of South Africa’s largest banks. Sue Hayes, CEO at Nottingham Building Society, said: “Riaan has already made a significant impact during his interim role, providing valuable insight and assurance at a time of change for our Society. His depth of international experience, combined with his pragmatic and commercial approach, will be invaluable as we continue to strengthen our governance and risk frameworks. I’m delighted to welcome him permanently to the leadership team.” Riaan Thiart added: “I am proud to be joining Nottingham Building Society on a permanent basis. The Society has a strong purpose-led culture and a clear ambition for the future, and I look forward to working with colleagues, the Executive and the Board to ensure our internal audit function continues to add value, provide assurance and support the Society in delivering for its members.”

Allscreens Nationwide to create jobs with new Leicester head office

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Allscreens Nationwide to create jobs with new Leicester head office
Allscreens Nationwide Ltd, the windscreen repair and replacement company, has opened its new head office in Leicester in a move that will create 50 jobs. The two-acre site in Thurmaston Lane was formerly owned by fashion company Boohoo, who announced the sale of the premises last year. Allscreens Nationwide welcomed Andrew Edwards, relationship director commercial banking, Royal Bank of Scotland – East Midlands, to help officially open the new head office, with RBS having supported the business with the purchase of the new site. The move gives Allscreens Nationwide the space to launch new departments including an ESG department, a customer liaison department, a network liaison department and a research and development department, creating up to 50 new jobs. The company’s existing Repair, Replacement and Recalibration Centre in Coal Cart Road, Birstall, will now close, with all staff transferring to the new 28,000 sq ft headquarters. All four sites – warehouse, fitting centre, contact centre and training academy – will now be housed under one roof, with 100 team members working from the Thurmaston Lane base. Daniel Sole, director at Allscreens Nationwide Ltd, said: “These are exciting times for Allscreens Nationwide, and we are especially delighted that our new head office means we are creating new jobs in Leicester, a city that has been our home for 32 years. “The company has strong growth ambitions for 2025 and this move forms part of our plan to consolidate our operations in Leicester and bring our workforce under one roof in the city. “We hope that this new state-of-the-art office space will not only further encourage our fantastic workplace culture, but also better support our customers in fleet and insurance, including Admiral Insurance, NFUM, Tesco, Novuna, BCA and Lex Vehicle Leasing. Our current repair and replacement rate is over 65,000 jobs per year. “With low emission heating and electricity systems and a move away from running multiple sites across Leicester, we also hope to reduce our carbon footprint which is a key target for us as a business.”

Group expands into elderly care home market with Lincolnshire acquisition

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Group expands into elderly care home market with Lincolnshire acquisition
Listed care home, Frampton House, in Lincolnshire, has been sold. A specialist care home registered for up to 30 residents, Frampton House occupies a Grade II listed, three-storey property that sits on two acres in Frampton village, just a few miles from the market town of Boston. Edward Brooks of Leisure Care Homes LTD has owned Frampton House for over 20 years and decided to sell the business to retire. Following a confidential sales process with Rosie Turner at Christie & Co, it has been sold to Kofi Mensah of Greenline Healthcare Group LTD. This marks the group’s first elderly care home, and part of its wider expansion of properties across the Midlands. Rosie Turner, senior business agent – care at Christie & Co, said: “After owning the home for over 20 years, my clients were ready to retire, and I am delighted that we have now completed the sale to Kofi and his team. The sale of Frampton House demonstrates that there is strong demand in the sector for homes of all sizes, including smaller converted and extended homes.”

Chesterfield delegates prioritise food, networking and convenience

April Lara
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Chesterfield delegates prioritise food, networking and convenience

A survey of 1,500 professionals conducted by Casa Hotel in Chesterfield has identified the elements delegates value most in business events. Networking and team-building topped the list, followed by venue and food quality. Long travel times, logistical challenges, and corporate jargon were cited as the main frustrations.

The research also highlighted emerging trends for 2025: wellbeing is gaining importance, jargon is increasingly off-putting, and convenience has become essential. Nearly a fifth of respondents identified excessive corporate language as a major turn-off, while more than a quarter flagged travel and parking as key concerns.

Casa Hotel, which recently marked its 15th anniversary and its 370,000th guest, has tailored facilities to meet these expectations. Meeting spaces are purpose-built, dining options feature locally sourced produce, and the location provides easy access to Chesterfield station and the M1. The hotel works closely with organisers to deliver customised event experiences.

Chesterfield is strengthening its reputation as a business events hub, offering a mix of heritage and modern venues suitable for conferences, corporate hospitality, and professional gatherings. Casa Hotel is part of Chesterfield Champions, a network of over 200 businesses, public sector organisations, and education providers that promotes collaboration, investment, and the town’s profile as a destination for commerce and events.

Asian-founded SMEs contribute £25bn but face systemic barriers

April Lara
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Asian-founded SMEs contribute £25bn but face systemic barriers

Asian-owned businesses contribute an estimated £25 billion to the UK economy and make up more than 6% of all SMEs, according to research by De Montfort University Leicester and Barclays Eagle Labs. The study involved 125 interviews with entrepreneurs, business leaders, and support organisations across England and Wales.

Findings highlight consistent obstacles to growth, including cultural attitudes towards debt and risk, investor bias, limited access to elite business networks, and challenges in securing finance. The research recommends tailored investment products, accelerator programmes, and targeted business support to address these barriers.

The Asian Founders Network, established in 2023 by DMU and Barclays Eagle Labs, has engaged over 1,000 entrepreneurs through events, roundtables, and networking sessions. The initiative aims to enhance recognition of Asian founders’ contributions and provide access to resources that support scaling and innovation.

The report highlights the potential for policymakers, investors, and business support organizations to boost economic growth by removing structural barriers for underrepresented entrepreneurs.

Eurocell “resilient” in subdued trading conditions

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Eurocell “resilient” in subdued trading conditions

Eurocell plc, the manufacturer and distributor of door and window products to the trade, has reported a “resilient” financial performance, against subdued trading conditions.

According to results for the six months ended 30 June 2025, revenue increased to £193.2m, up from £175.7m in the same period last year.

Adjusted profit before tax, meanwhile, was down 3% at £7.8m, which the firm said reflected higher finance costs following its acquisition of Alunet. Eurocell noted that its full year outlook is now below previous expectations, “with trading conditions remaining subdued and continuing macroeconomic uncertainty impacting key markets.”

Darren Waters, chief executive of Eurocell plc, said: “Our first half financial performance was resilient, in the context of trading conditions that remain subdued. We delivered an increase of 9% in adjusted operating profit despite lower organic volumes, thanks to a strong contribution from Alunet and effective cost control. Our cash generation was solid and our financial position remains strong.

“We have continued to invest to maintain momentum with our strategy, and have made further progress across a broad range of initiatives. The acquisition of Alunet in March is a compelling strategic fit for Eurocell and the business has performed very well.

“While demand in our core RMI market remains sluggish, we have seen some modest early signs of an improving picture in new build housing, albeit from a very low base. We are therefore continuing to focus on cost reduction and operational improvements to drive efficiency and mitigate against the impact of delayed market recovery.

“Whilst the full year outlook is below our previous expectations, the medium and long-term growth prospects for the UK construction market remain attractive and we are well positioned to drive sustainable growth in shareholder value.”

Konsileo’s Nick Taylor-Ward sponsors the East Midlands Bricks Awards 2025

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Konsileo’s Nick Taylor-Ward sponsors the East Midlands Bricks Awards 2025
Nick Taylor-Ward ACII, Chartered Insurance Broker and Client Director at Konsileo, has announced his sponsorship of the East Midlands Bricks Awards 2025, celebrating excellence across the East Midlands property and construction sector. With over 30 years of specialist experience advising developers, contractors, property investors and professionals on all aspects of risk and insurance, Nick has built a reputation for delivering trusted guidance and tailored protection. Konsileo, independent whole-of-market insurance broker, combines state-of-the-art insurtech systems with a unique teal management model. This approach enables brokers to offer clients the very best of both worlds: competitive pricing powered by technology, and highly personal, face-to-face service grounded in deep sector expertise. Backing the Excellence in Design category, Nick Taylor-Ward commented on the sponsorship: “Supporting Bricks 2025 is a natural fit. It’s a fantastic opportunity to celebrate the strength of the region’s property and construction community, while highlighting the importance of risk management in ensuring sustainable growth and success.” To find out more about Konsileo, click here, or contact Nick Taylor-Ward at nick.taylorward@konsileo.com or +44 797 60 90 701. The eagerly anticipated East Midlands Bricks Awards 2025 will take place on Thursday 2nd October (4:30pm – 7:30pm) in the Derek Randall Suite at the famous Trent Bridge Cricket Ground, showcasing the region’s property and construction industry while providing a prime opportunity to connect with local decision makers over nibbles and complimentary drinks. A key event in the business calendar since 2015, the glittering awards ceremony will additionally feature Councillor Nadine Peatfield – Leader of Derby City Council, Cabinet Member for City Centre, Regeneration, Strategy and Policy, and Deputy Mayor of the East Midlands, as keynote speaker.

Tickets can now be booked for the event – click here to secure yours.

Attend to forge new contacts and see who takes home Most Active Agent, Commercial Development of the Year, Responsible Business, Residential Development of the Year, Developer of the Year, Deal of the Year, Architects of the Year, Excellence in Design, Sustainable Development of the Year, Contractor of the Year, and Overall Winner. The Overall Winner of the East Midlands Bricks Awards 2025, sponsored by SEV, will also be awarded a grand prize – a year of marketing/publicity with Business Link worth £20,000, with the opportunity to split or gift the marketing to a charity of their choice.

With the shortlist now announced, see who the finalists are here.

The East Midlands Bricks Awards 2025

What: The East Midlands Bricks Awards 2025 When: Thursday 2nd October (4.30pm – 7.30pm) Where: Derek Randall Suite, Trent Bridge Cricket Ground, Nottingham Keynote speaker: Councillor Nadine Peatfield – Leader of Derby City Council, Cabinet Member for City Centre, Regeneration, Strategy and Policy, and Deputy Mayor of the East Midlands Tickets: Available here Dress code: Standard business attire Don’t miss this opportunity to connect with property and construction professionals while applauding the exceptional companies and projects in the region. Thanks to our sponsors:                                                                                          

To be held at:

Derby law firm expands with significant Yorkshire acquisition

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Derby law firm expands with significant Yorkshire acquisition
Derby law firm Flint Bishop has exchanged contracts to acquire the entire business of Lupton Fawcett LLP, which has offices in Leeds, Sheffield, and York. The transaction, due to complete at the end of September, represents a major milestone in Flint Bishop’s growth strategy. The deal results in Flint Bishop acquiring the business and assets of a well-established Yorkshire-based law firm with complementary expertise, significantly enhancing its capabilities across commercial, employment, dispute resolution & litigation, property, and private client services, while also introducing new specialisms such as criminal & regulatory, ecclesiastical law, and intellectual property.  Upon completion, Flint Bishop will retain all three Lupton Fawcett offices, substantially expanding its footprint across the north of England. Combined with its headquarters in Derby and existing offices in Birmingham, Leeds, and Swansea, the firm will employ over 420 staff and is projected to generate annual turnover well in excess of £40 million.  The transaction follows Flint Bishop’s record-breaking financial year for 2024/25, which saw revenue growth of 53% year-on-year to £31.9 million.   Qamer Ghafoor, chief executive of Flint Bishop, said: “Our latest acquisition is a transformative step in our growth journey, enhancing our capabilities, broadening our geographic reach, and allowing us to deliver even greater value to our clients. “Lupton Fawcett has a proud heritage and an outstanding reputation, and we look forward to welcoming our talented new colleagues in Leeds, Sheffield, and York, supporting them with exciting career and development opportunities.” James Richardson, managing partner of Lupton Fawcett, said: “Joining Flint Bishop represents an exciting new chapter for both our people and our clients. The cultural alignment and shared commitment to excellence made this a natural fit. “This move ensures continuity and stability for our existing clients, while creating considerable opportunities for growth in Yorkshire and across the wider north of England as part of a truly national law firm.” Deal advisory services were provided by PKF Smith Cooper. David Nelson, transactions and advisory services partner, said: “We were delighted to provide Deal Advisory Services and support to Qamer Ghafoor and the Executive team at Flint Bishop on their recent acquisition of Lupton Fawcett. “We wish Flint Bishop every success with the integration of the Lupton Fawcett team and clients and seeing the continued growth and success of the wider business as it continues to scale and enter new territories and markets nationally.”

UK steel sector faces push for consolidation

April Lara
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UK steel sector faces push for consolidation

The UK government is exploring options to consolidate the country’s steel industry, which currently comprises six major producers. Four of these companies are receiving government support amid financial strain caused by high energy costs, global steel oversupply, and tariff pressures.

Officials in the Department for Business and Trade are prioritising private-sector-led solutions, seeking potential buyers rather than pursuing nationalisation. Recent government interventions have included taking temporary control of British Steel in Scunthorpe and Speciality Steels UK following financial collapses, while Tata Steel in Port Talbot received a £500 million rescue package to support its transition to low-carbon production. Sheffield Forgemasters was nationalised by the Ministry of Defence in 2021 after prolonged financial difficulties.

Speciality Steels UK has shifted to electric arc furnaces, and the government is covering wages and operational costs while negotiating with commercial buyers. British Steel remains under government oversight as negotiations continue with Chinese owner Jingye, which has requested a substantial sum to transfer ownership.

Government sources indicate a strategic preference for closer collaboration between all UK steel producers and long-term consolidation to strengthen financial resilience. Officials stress nationalisation is not the intended approach, and any merger would require agreement from current company owners.

Ministers are engaging with domestic and international stakeholders to secure a sustainable future for the UK steel sector while maintaining private-sector involvement.

Wavensmere Homes secures prime regeneration site near Nottingham Railway Station

Tess Egginton
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Wavensmere Homes secures prime regeneration site near Nottingham Railway Station
Wavensmere Homes has been selected to bring forward the Waterway House site, accessed off Crocus Street, just south of Nottingham Railway Station and tram stop. The prime residential development opportunity has been promoted through the planning process by Rainier Developments and Strategic Land, with full consent granted by the City Council last year. The 0.25 ha island site is bordered by Waterway Street to the south, Newthorpe Street to the east, Crocus Street to the north, and with an area of public realm and the tram line to the west. The existing site comprises Waterway House – a vacant 1970s two-storey office building with around 750 sq m of floorspace – and cleared hardstanding areas. Previously owned by Nottingham City Council, the site has lain largely vacant and unoccupied since 2021. James Dickens, managing director of Wavensmere Homes, said: “Nottingham has been a key target for us for several years, but the site needed to be right. Our Nightingale Quarter development is moments away from Derby Train Station, while Canalside South is next to Wolverhampton Transport Interchange. “Given its sustainable city centre location – by the train station and tram stops – we are very excited about the potential for the Waterway House site, which is a genuine gateway into Nottingham’s city core. It’s the opportunity we’ve been waiting for and we’re delighted to be selected by Rainier to take this site forward.” Wavensmere has appointed architects Corstorphine and Wright to work up new plans for a residential scheme to be delivered by the Birmingham-headquartered regeneration specialist. Public consultation on the new design proposals is expected to take place before the end of this year, prior to a planning application being submitted. Richard Mees, chief executive of Rainier Developments and Strategic Land, said: “Wavensmere’s reputation for delivering complex city centre regeneration schemes shone through when we were undergoing our developer selection process. “The scale and setting of the Waterway House site has the potential to make a much needed contribution to Nottingham’s housing shortfall, while also transforming the street scene and driving investment into this quarter of the city centre. “Attracting a Midlands-based housebuilder who has accrued such a stellar national reputation is good news for Nottingham’s residential market. We very much look forward to seeing Wavensmere’s plans evolve over the coming months.”
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