Sterling Commercial Finance “delighted” to support the East Midlands Bricks Awards for fifth year in a row

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Sterling Commercial Finance “delighted” to support the East Midlands Bricks Awards for fifth year in a row
Sterling Commercial Finance has joined the sponsor line up for the East Midlands Bricks Awards 2023, backing the Residential Development of the Year category. Speaking with Business Link, Nic Rotton of Sterling Commercial Finance said: “At Sterling Commercial Finance, we are delighted to continue our support as sponsor for the East Midlands Bricks Awards 2023. “As property finance specialists, it is fascinating for us to see the wide-ranging developments taking place across the region with design, functionality and sustainability at their heart. “We are proud to continue our affiliation with the Residential Development of the Year category for the fifth year and we look forward to celebrating with everyone later in the year.” The awards, which will take place on Thursday 28 September at the Trent Bridge Cricket Ground, celebrate the outstanding work of those shaping the landscape of our region, recognising development projects and people in commercial and public building across the East Midlands – from offices, industrial and residential, through to community projects such as leisure schemes and schools. Nominations are now OPEN for East Midlands Business Link’s annual Bricks Awards. To nominate your (or another) business/development for one of our awards, please click on a category link below or visit this page.
Award categories include: Nominations end Thursday 31 August. Find out who last year’s winners were here.

Book your tickets now

Tickets can now be booked for the awards event – click here to secure yours. The special awards evening and networking event will be held on Thursday 28 September 2023 in the Derek Randall Suite at the Trent Bridge County Cricket Club from 4:30pm – 7:30pm. Connect with local decision makers over canapés and complimentary drinks while applauding the outstanding companies and projects in our region, and hear from Mike Denby, Director of Inward Investment and Place Marketing at Leicester City Council, our keynote speaker. Dress code is standard business attire. Thanks to our sponsors:                                                             To be held at:

Hegarty Solicitors makes raft of promotions

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Hegarty Solicitors makes raft of promotions
Hegarty Solicitors has made a raft of promotions across the firm, seeing Martin Banwell and Will Stokes become partners. Martin qualified as a solicitor in 2013 and joined Hegarty Solicitors in 2018 working in the wills, trusts and probate department. Martin specialises in tax and estate planning and the administration of estates, as well as preparing, acting on, and contesting wills as well as being a member of numerous groups including Solicitors for the Elderly, Society of Trusts and Estates Practitioners, and the Law Society’s Private Client section. Martin said: “I am pleased to have been promoted to partner and I look forward to continuing to work within an excellent team here at Hegarty.” Will works in the commercial property team and has an extensive experience across a wide range of commercial property matters after qualifying as a solicitor in 2005. Will joined Hegarty Solicitors in 2020 and in the same year was recognised as a “rising star” in the Legal 500. He works on all aspects of commercial property law including acquisitions, landlord and tenant matters, overage agreements, refinancing of property portfolios, and conditional sale contracts. Senior partner Kally Singh said: “It is great to have Martin and Will on board as new partners of the firm and we look forward to seeing them contribute to the growth and success of Hegarty Solicitors in the years to come.” Hegarty Solicitors has also promoted three to associate – Pavinder Khela, Natasha Downing, and Emma Carter. Pavinder joined the family department at Hegarty Solicitors in 2016 after working in London from 2003. Pavinder’s expertise in family law includes advising clients on prenuptial agreements, separation agreements, divorce, all financial matters, and pension sharing and all aspects of private children disputes including living arrangements, contact disputes involving parents, grandparents, aunts, uncles, and unrelated parties. Natasha worked for Paul Browne Solicitors in 2010 (which merged with Hegarty Solicitors in 2015) after studying law at De Montfort University in Leicester. Natasha then completed the Chartered Institute of Legal Executives course and qualified as a graduate member in 2008. She is a specialist in new build and help to buy schemes. Emma qualified in 1999 and joined Hegarty Solicitors in 2010 where she first began working in the employment law department before moving to wills, trusts, and probate in 2014. Emma now specialises in private client services such as wills, powers of attorney, probate application and administration of estates and trusts together with Court of Protection applications. Emma said: “I’m looking forward to continuing my work as part of the team and am currently looking forward to my move to our Stamford office come May.” Meanwhile, family lawyer and head of the Family Law department, Chris Brown will become Hegarty Solicitors’ first senior associate. Chris said: “I am grateful to the partners for this recognition of my hard work and the opportunity to progress within the firm.” Chris joined Hegarty Solicitors in 2012 after qualifying as a solicitor in 2009. He is an expert in advising clients about the division of assets and financial implications of a divorce. Chris is a member of Resolution and holds their Accreditation as a Specialist Lawyer in Complex Financial Remedies and has held that accreditation since 2015. His experience working in the Family Courts also gives him the knowledge to advise clients on the likely outcome if their case does not settle, often helping clients to avoid contested Court proceedings. Kally Singh said: “At Hegarty Solicitors we are committed to developing our staff and supporting them in their personal growth. These promotions demonstrate the expertise, dedication, and enthusiasm of our team and we would like to congratulate Martin, Will, Pavinder, Natasha, Emma, and Chris on their much-deserved promotions.”

Engage & Grow Central Midlands co-founder named number one coach worldwide

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Engage & Grow Central Midlands co-founder named number one coach worldwide
Co-founder of Engage & Grow Central Midlands, Rachael Bull, has recently been announced as the world’s number one Engage & Grow Global coach. Engage & Grow is a global brand on a mission to re-engage and re-energise workforces across the world. Their bespoke group coaching programmes and workshops create significant change for businesses in every field, industry and size, turning underperforming staff into fully engaged employees that become the driving force behind their company’s growth and success. Since launching Engage & Grow Central Midlands last summer, Rachael and her brother, UK business coach Matt Bull, have built up a portfolio of clients and they’re looking to expand the company’s services across the construction and life sciences sectors. To meet its growing client base’s needs, the company has bolstered its support to include people auditing, employee experience strategy, strategic narrative and communications, alongside their Engage & Grow group programmes. Rachael said: “When we started Engage and Grow Central Midlands last May, three months after I had my son, I found out about the monthly tally board of top 5 global coaches and knew I wanted to achieve that one day. I never thought that it would happen within a year of setting up the business! “What we do is having a big impact on businesses’ success and it’s never been a more important time for companies to focus on their people. They’re the driving force behind every organisation and nothing will work well unless they do. “One common issue that business owners are facing is retaining their employees, so they’re having to recruit to replace rather than recruit due to growth. With recruiters headhunting more now than ever, it’s time for businesses to up their game and prioritise creating an exceptional employee experience so they have a happy, high-performing, highly engaged workforce who love what they do and are brilliant at it. That’s exactly what we do. So, if you’re serious about your people, we want to help.”

Next’s first quarter sales fall by less than expected

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Next’s first quarter sales fall by less than expected
First quarter sales have fallen at Next, though by less than expected, according to a new trading statement for the thirteen weeks to 29 April. Full price sales were down 0.7% against last year, moderately ahead of Next’s guidance which was to be down 2%. The retailer’s full year guidance is however unchanged, with profit before tax of £795m still expected, decreasing 8.7% on last year. Next said: “Although our first quarter performance moderately exceeded our sales guidance, we believe it is too early in the year to alter our overall sales expectations for either the half or full year.” Charlie Huggins, manager of the ‘Quality Shares Portfolio’ at Wealth Club, said: “This is another solid update from the bellwether of the UK High Street. Sales have fallen by less than expected, and although Next hasn’t increased its full year guidance, this seems to be borne more out of prudence than anything else. “The current retail environment is sorting the wheat from the chaff. On the one hand you have the likes of Superdry, Boohoo and Asos which are really struggling, not to mention countless other retailers that have gone bankrupt. At the other end of the spectrum are the likes of Next and Primark, which appear to be getting stronger. “Next’s strength is allowing it to snap up weaker rival’s brands (like Made.com) at knock-down prices and plug them into its online distribution network. By offering these brands, Next expands choice for customers and gives them even more reasons to keep coming back. “Overall, Next is doing everything investors could ask of it in a difficult retail environment. Economic pressures could yet worsen as higher interest rates really start to bite. But that won’t worry Next too much. It looks to be in a much stronger position than rivals to weather any storm.”

Sportpark scores in world-leading energy efficiency assessment

Stuart Pearcey
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Sportpark scores in world-leading energy efficiency assessment
The £9m extension of Sportpark in Loughborough has been awarded Passivhaus status – one of the world’s most challenging energy efficiency and comfort standards in the world. It means SportPark’s new Pavilion 4 will provide sports organisations with environmentally future-proof accommodation in a building with triple-glazed windows, an enhanced thermal efficient airtight building fabric, external solar shading, and a highly efficient heat and ventilation system under a roof covered with solar panels to further reduce its energy demand. The extension was delivered by the Leicester and Leicestershire Enterprise Partnership as part of the Getting Building Fund. Funds were designated for investment in local, shovel-ready infrastructure projects to stimulate jobs and support economic recovery across the country. The LLEP was allocated £20m, supporting the SportPark expansion with £6m. Further funding support has been provided by Loughborough Town Deal. Andy Reed, LLEP Co-Chair, said: “Sustainability is a pillar of our economic growth strategy and, in funding SportPark Pavilion 4, we enabled development of a superb building at the highest standards of energy efficiency. “The project has also supported more than 400 jobs within the construction phase alone, brought additional sports-related organisations to our region, and created a living lab for local architecture students with an interest in sustainable building design.”

Newly opened MKM branch pledges long term support for local charity

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Newly opened MKM branch pledges long term support for local charity
The UK’s largest independent builder’s merchant invited the founder of A Child Of Mine, a local Stafford-based charity, to mark the branch officially opening its doors to the trade and public. To highlight MKM’s commitment to the local community, the branch has pledged its ongoing support to A Child Of Mine with an initial donation of £1000 – which was very swiftly followed by an additional £300 raised through a raffle organised by the MKM Stafford team. Ryan Hitchin, branch director at MKM Stafford, said: “As a local, independent business, we are extremely passionate about our local community; that’s why we are delighted to celebrate the official opening of our new branch by announcing this partnership with A Child of Mine.” Gayle Routlegde, founder of A Child Of Mine, said: “I am so incredibly grateful to MKM Stafford for choosing us as its charity partner. A Child Of Mine is a small charity – in fact, full time it’s just me, and we have one part time helper – so the support of a local business like MKM Stafford really does mean the world to us. “At A Child Of Mine, we support bereaved parents and their families by providing accurate, practical information, working to improve professional bereavement services, and delivering direct services to families who have lost a child, including financial assistance. Our ultimate goal is to connect families who have had this experience, offering support and letting them know they are not alone.” Ryan Brammer, branch director at MKM Stafford, added: “This partnership isn’t a one hit wonder for us, we really want to support Gayle in her mission at A Child of Mine however we can. All of our newly formed team, bar one, are parents, so it’s a matter close to all of our hearts. “Our ongoing support will include providing materials for in-person events for the charity, raising awareness of their fantastic work through our own social media channels, and donating stock where appropriate. At MKM Stafford we’re here to support A Child of Mine for as long as they want us too.” Open to both the trade and general public, MKM Stafford is a purpose built, state-of-the-art builder’s merchant that is conveniently located on Stone Road, just a short drive from the town centre, and five minutes from the nearby Tollgate Industrial Estate. Creating 20 new jobs in the area, the branch provides an extensive range of building materials, plumbing and heating, timber, landscaping, joinery and more. The branch also boasts a stunning kitchen and bathroom showroom and outdoor landscaping display, which showcases all the latest designs, colours and trends. Ryan Hitchin, MKM Stafford’s branch director, concluded: “We might be a new independent business, but we have a highly experienced and skilled team on-hand to help our customers every step of the way, no matter what project they are working on. “The people we have selected for our newly formed team are truly the best of the best – not only are they fantastic at what they do, but they all share a common goal with us; making MKM Stafford a great place to work. “Our aim and commitment is to provide outstanding levels of customer service in a welcoming, friendly and fun environment. In addition to our extensive product offering, we also offer a range of first-class services, from free same day or next day delivery, to free kitchen and bathroom design services.” Both hailing from the Staffordshire area, and with almost 40 years of industry experience between them, both Ryan Hitchin and Ryan Brammer are ideally suited to take on the task of helming the new MKM Stafford branch. They are both excited by the challenge, and relish the opportunity of running their own business with MKM.

BrandAlley acquires Internet Fusion Group preserving jobs at Kettering distribution centre

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BrandAlley acquires Internet Fusion Group preserving jobs at Kettering distribution centre
BrandAlley, the off-price premium and luxury brand e-tailer, has purchased certain assets of Internet Fusion Group, a global multi-platform e-commerce business, that includes Country Attire and Surfdome, as part of its expansion plans. The move marks a significant strategic opportunity to enhance BrandAlley’s infrastructure and will render BrandAlley operations more cost-effective. In addition to IFG’s intellectual property across multiple domains, BrandAlley is acquiring the logistics operation and customer service division out of administration and preserving over 125 jobs. BrandAlley will not trade from IFG domains and will not be purchasing IFG’s existing payables or stock, however customer orders currently with carriers will be delivered. The investment comes at a time of focused growth for BrandAlley, following 15 consecutive years of successful trading and multiple acquisitions including Achica, Cocosa, Lombok and BrandAlley France. Rob Feldmann, CEO of BrandAlley, said: “The IFG customer is very much aligned to our existing customer profile and the acquisition will enhance our existing operational structure to deliver the best possible service for our members. We look forward to welcoming over 125 new employees from IFG to the BrandAlley family, all of whom will be key in driving our exceptional customer experience.” The acquisition was delivered in conjunction with Director of M&A Advisory, Simon Smith of Full-Pitch Consulting. Legal advice was provided by Rob Russell, DLA Piper.

Nottingham lawyer makes partner in Shoosmiths’ latest promotions round

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Nottingham lawyer makes partner in Shoosmiths’ latest promotions round
Law firm Shoosmiths has announced eight new partners in its May promotions round. In the firm’s Nottingham office, Matthew Kemp has been appointed as partner. Kemp advises funds, landlords and corporates, with a particular focus on investment. The other new Shoosmiths partners are: Jill Briggs, Kate Garcia, Holly Hirst, Liz McKillop Paley, Chris Moakes, Lisa Sigalet and Brian West. Shoosmiths has also promoted 12 to legal director and 24 to principal associate. Shoosmiths chairperson, Peter Duff, said: “We would like to thank all this year’s promotees for their contribution to Shoosmiths. The dedication they have shown to clients and their commitment to Shoosmiths’ values has been exceptional. “At Shoosmiths, we are committed to developing and nurturing our people to create the best lawyers of tomorrow – getting this right is integral to Shoosmiths’ strategic expansion across our chosen markets in the years to come.”

Administrators secure future of Nottingham manufacturer

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Administrators secure future of Nottingham manufacturer

After being appointed joint administrators to Nova Group Products Limited on 2 May 2023, Tim Bateson and Howard Smith from Interpath Advisory have secured the business’s future.

Based in Nottingham and previously known as Fabriweld, the company is a manufacturer and processor of aluminium and steel products, primarily focussed on home speaker accessories and casings for commercial electric vehicle charge points.

The business had faced a significant drop in revenue over the last two years due to lower demand for consumer-led products. With pressure on cashflow building, the directors explored a number of funding options but, with no solvent solution to be found, took the decision to seek the appointment of the joint administrators.  

Immediately following their appointment, the joint administrators concluded sales of the business and assets to Innovation Lifts Limited and Innovation Group Products Limited, two companies affiliated to Nottingham-based Innovation Laser Limited. 

As part of the transactions, all of the company’s 25 employees will transfer to the purchasers.

Tim Bateson, director at Interpath Advisory and joint administrator, said: “From its home in Nottingham, Nova Group has been producing quality products for over 40 years, so we’re pleased to have been able to conclude these transactions which will enable production to continue and jobs to be preserved. We wish the purchasers and the company’s skilled employees all the very best for the future.”

Leicestershire-based baker to the Royals rises to challenge of a greener future ahead of King’s Coronation

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Leicestershire-based baker to the Royals rises to challenge of a greener future ahead of King’s Coronation
A Leicestershire-based cake making business, that has provided cakes for The Royal Family, is reducing its emissions and energy usage with the installation of 4,500 sq ft of solar panels, supported by funding from Lloyds Bank. Fiona Cairns is a luxury bakery brand that designs and makes cakes for all occasions. A favourite of The Royal Family’s, the team made the Royal wedding cake for their Royal Highnesses, the Prince and Princess of Wales. They supply cakes and biscuits to high-end retailers including Waitrose, Harrods, Fortnum and Mason, and Selfridges. The company also exports on a weekly basis to Dunnes Stores in the Republic of Ireland. The family business was founded almost 40 years ago by Fiona Cairns, a former pastry chef who honed her skills in Michelin starred Hambleton Hall, Rutland, and her husband in 1986. Now, the company has more than 120 staff and is a second-generation family business. The company is now focussing on introducing sustainable initiatives that will help the firm remain resilient, become more cost effective, all while having a minimal impact on the planet. To support the firm to meet its green ambitions, it approached Lloyds Bank, securing funding via the Clean Growth Financing Initiative, which provides customers with access to discounted lending for green purposes. With this support, solar panels have been fitted to one of the business’s three production units, covering 4,500 sq ft. The panels will supply almost a third of the building’s energy, equating to around 10% of the business’s total energy usage, and reduce CO2 emissions by 15 tonnes per year. The business is also looking at opportunities to increase this figure by using the electricity generated during the factory’s non-operational weekend hours to charge its fleet of three electric forklift trucks. The business recently became RSPO certified for demonstrating that its palm oil comes from sustainable sources. Its food waste is used to help generate electricity, and as of April 2023, the cakemaker will aim to send zero waste to landfill. Most of the firm’s packaging is currently produced locally by Leicestershire suppliers, and the company is looking at strategies to reduce the quantity used, including shrinking the size of the plastic windows in its cake boxes. Further plans are also in the pipeline to install solar panels across all three production units on site, with the hope that renewable energy will be the dominant energy source in the future. Tara Patel, director at Fiona Cairns, said: “Sustainability is something I’ve been passionate about for a long time, and as the next generation of leadership, it’s important to look at all areas of the business to see where we can reduce our impact on the environment. The installation of our solar panels forms just one part of our sustainability journey, and when combined, these changes are helping us to bring down the emissions of our business. “Retailers are increasingly scrutinising the emissions of their suppliers. As a partner to some of the UK’s most prominent retailers, it’s our responsibility to ensure we’re operating as sustainably as possible, helping them to achieve their net zero ambitions, as well as our own.” Noshad Khowaja, relationship director, SME banking at Lloyds Bank, said: “Fiona Cairns is a fantastic brand which has built an excellent reputation with its customers. From royalty to the supermarket shelf, it’s great to see a local firm like this not only succeed in the world of business but also realise the benefits and opportunities that come with sustainable changes. “The food and drink sector accounts for over a quarter of the planet’s greenhouse gas emissions. At Lloyds Bank we’re committed to helping businesses such as Fiona Cairns to reduce their environmental impact and supporting sectors to work towards a low carbon economy.”

Support for disabled passengers earns award for East Midlands Airport

Stuart Pearcey
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Support for disabled passengers earns award for East Midlands Airport
East Midlands Airport has won a prestigious Business Disability Forum ‘Disability Smart Inclusive Customer Service’ award in the category of inclusive customer service. Disability Smart Awards recognise the work of teams and individuals who have gone above and beyond to improve the experiences of disabled people, and ten were presented at an event in London. Chris Drury, Head of Customer Services at EMA, said: “This award shows our recent investment is being recognised and, more importantly, passengers who rely on the support of our assisted travel team can easily access travel for which there should be no barriers.” East Midlands Airport was congratulated for its innovative and inclusive approach to customer service. The airport has invested heavily in new specialist equipment for disabled passengers. It has introduced easier ways for customers to communicate with the Assisted Travel team wherever they are in the airport. Key to the success of the airport’s inclusive approach to customer service is the relationship with its independent Accessibility Advisory Group. Christiane Link, who chairs the forum, said: “This award truly reflects EMA’s passion for creating an inclusive environment for all customers. It is a significant accomplishment and testament to the work and commitment of the airport’s Assisted Travel team. “East Midlands Airport understands that the lived experience of disability is vital to improving the customer experience. The airport is in constant conversation with me and the advisory group, and it is a pleasure to advise them and see passengers benefit from our collaboration.”

Phenna Group makes fifth acquisition of 2023

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Phenna Group makes fifth acquisition of 2023
Nottingham-headquartered Phenna Group has made its fifth acquisition of 2023 with Cansford Laboratories, cementing a strong start to the year whilst augmenting its rapidly developing Health Sciences platform and adding complementary services to existing offerings. Phenna aims to invest in and partner with selected niche, independent Testing, Inspection, Certification and Compliance (TICC) companies that serve a variety of sectors, ensuring customers’ peace of mind by delivering first class assurance & consultancy services. Formed in 2010 and accredited to ISO 17025:2017, Cansford Laboratories has established its position as a fast, reliable, and innovative leader in high quality drug, alcohol, and steroid testing. Its founders pioneered hair testing more than 30 years ago, dedicating their careers since to improving and expanding the possibilities of drug and alcohol testing. Today, its methods are used by laboratories across the globe. From a base in Cardiff, it offers a UK-wide testing service for individuals and organisations in family law, social care, criminal law, education, and the workplace. Cansford’s team of experts offer hair, oral fluid, nail, and dry blood spot testing with related services including collection and expert witness support. John Wicks, CEO of Cansford Laboratories, said: “We are thrilled to be partnering with  Phenna Group. Having been through acquisition processes in the past, I fully appreciate how challenging they can be. Since first meeting Paul and his team, they acted very professionally, ensuring a smooth and commercially focused process. “Our interactions have been very straight forward, and I’m convinced that Phenna will provide exactly the support we need to help us deliver our exciting future growth plans. Cansford Laboratory have a great team culture and securing a partner that valued that was paramount in our decision making. I look forward to working with the Phenna Group team into the future.” Paul Barry, Group CEO of Phenna Group, said: “Cansford Laboratories is a business that we’ve admired for a while, and I’m absolutely delighted that John and Lolita have decided to partner with us. From our early engagements, it was very obvious our values and cultures aligned and that together, we could continue to build on their already impressive track record. “This deal augments our developing health sciences division and I look forward to welcoming their talented team into our Group and to working with them all, to deliver continued success for the business.” Phenna Group were advised by RSM and Avonhurst. Cansford Laboratories were advised by Lexington Corporate Finance and Berry Smith LLP. Thomas Edwards, a director at Lexington Corporate Finance, said: “It came as no surprise to us that there was significant interest in Cansford from both trade and private equity buyers, considering the organisation’s impressive reputation as a leader in high quality drug, alcohol, and steroid testing. “The business has scaled up considerably since its formation in 2010, thanks to the leadership of John Wicks and Lolita Tsanaclis, so it needed a buyer that matched this ambition. From working with Cansford it became clear that Phenna was the ideal fit. “This transaction builds on Lexington’s strong credentials in the healthcare and TICC sectors, increasing the total value of deals Lexington has advised on in 2023 to almost £150 million.”

Linkline secures £12.5m to accelerate growth

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Linkline secures £12.5m to accelerate growth
Linkline Transport Limited, a family led warehousing and logistics business based in Wellingborough who boast clients such as Primark and GXO, has been provided with a facility worth £12.5 million from Shawbrook to fund their ongoing growth. Founded in 1993, Linkline offers logistics, haulage, warehousing, and pallet network services across the UK. The business has grown exponentially in recent years under the leadership of Managing Director, James Bowes who assumed the position in 2021. Under James’ leadership the company expanded into the warehousing sector and is now looking to accelerate its growth and move into further sites.
Shawbrook’s hybrid funding package worth a total of £12.5 million, includes a £5 million Confidential Invoicing Finance loan to support working capital requirements. In addition, a structured cash flow facility to support expansion plans is included within the deal. The funding allows Linkline to enhance their current services as well as providing them the headroom needed to explore expansion into additional sites in the near future. Dave Hilton, partner at Mazars conducted the Debt Advisory process on the deal. Matt Ingram at Squire Patton Boggs acted for Shawbrook and Dave Easdown of Knights Legal acted for Linkline. The Financial Due Diligence was completed by Knights Transaction Services. James Bowes, Managing Director of Linkline Transport, said: “Linkline at its heart is a family-owned enterprise and having grown up with the company it is exciting to see the growth we have experienced. Shawbrook has been a fantastic partner throughout the process and ultimately offered us a package that could not be matched in its scope and flexibility. “I greatly look forward to continuing to drive the business forward, with a particular focus on our high-quality warehousing facilities and am pleased to be able to do so with the support of Shawbrook.” Dave Hilton, partner at Mazars, said: “I have had a great relationship with both Shawbrook and Linkline for some time and it was a real pleasure to bring these parties together to facilitate this deal. “Linkline is a promising enterprise that has seen an exceptional level of success in recent years. With the leadership of James being coupled with the funding from a proven lender like Shawbrook, I have no doubt the business will continue to go from strength to strength.” Daniel Martin, senior director at Shawbrook, said: “Linkline are a strong family led enterprise who have been growing at a phenomenal rate in the last few years and we believe this additional funding will help them build on the fantastic platform they already have. “James has been a driving force behind the incredible growth they have experienced. His leadership has taken the business from strength to strength, and we look forward to supporting him as the business continues to expand.”

East Midlands firms need UK and EU to get along better, says Chamber Chief Exec

Stuart Pearcey
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East Midlands firms need UK and EU to get along better, says Chamber Chief Exec
East Midlands Chamber Chief Executive Scott Knowles says it’s vital for businesses in the East Midlands that the UK has a better relationship with the EU. In  the wake of a House of Lords European Affairs Committee’s report, he said: “As a Centre of Trading Excellence that is a powerhouse for manufacturing innovative goods distributed across the world, the East Midlands economy heavily relies on having positive trading relationships with our international partners – no more so than with the EU, our nearest export market. “Therefore, it’s promising to see the publication of a landmark report that acknowledges how UK-EU relations and trading have been far from ideal in the past few years – reflecting what our members keep telling us – and delivers a series of recommendations to reset the approach in how we work together. “In particular, we welcome clear and well-evidenced proposals for reform of access to the labour market for our employers, which have been battling acute skills shortages for a long time now. “Our latest Quarterly Economic Survey, which formed part of the British Chambers of Commerce’s research that was submitted to the committee, shows that six in 10 East Midlands businesses attempted to recruit in the first three months of this year and, of those, 73% faced problems in filling roles. “Industries like manufacturing, construction, logistics, hospitality and care continue to face huge capacity constraints caused by one of the tightest labour pools we’ve ever witnessed. “We need a fast, efficient and affordable system to access skills from outside the UK when we can’t recruit and train locally. “As we have set out in our Business Manifesto for Growth, the Shortage Occupations List is a key tool to do this but it must be expanded to reflect the reality on the ground. “UK firms are also hampered when it comes to travelling to Europe due to the lack of flexibility in some of the business travel and mobility rules in the Brexit deal, especially in relation to financial, professional and business services. “We urge the UK Government to respond decisively to these findings, so that firms can have the confidence in access to the skilled workers they need to grow their businesses and get economic growth moving.”

North Kesteven’s rural firms encouraged to explore growth grant potential

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North Kesteven’s rural firms encouraged to explore growth grant potential
Expressions of interest are open for a capital grant scheme which will help rural businesses in North Kesteven invest in sustainable growth. The Rural Business Grant is specifically aimed at supporting new and existing rural businesses to develop products, services and facilities of wider benefit to the local economy. Possible examples include farm businesses looking to diversify income streams, growth in the visitor economy including visitor accommodation, and investments in power or energy efficiency which will make a positive contribution to the District reaching net zero. The grant is being delivered by North Kesteven District Council for DEFRA, under the Rural England Prosperity Fund. The first window for Expressions of Interest is open from now until Thursday 1 June. Digital Expression of Interest forms can be found online at www.businessnk.co.uk There’ll then be a first call for full applications, and this will take place when the Expressions of Interest window has closed. North Kesteven District Council Economic Development Manager Alan Gray said: “We’re inviting rural businesses in North Kesteven to register their interest now in the Rural Business Grant, if they have a project they think may be eligible. “These early indications will allow our grants team to make initial assessments of eligibility and provide help where needed from the start, including ensuring applicants are given the time and support necessary to refine and develop investments in line with the objectives of the Rural England Prosperity Fund and meet the various requirements for evidence. “It will also help ensure that proper consideration is given to projects that may require planning permission, or any additional funding or legal matters which need to be concluded within the time frame set out for the delivery of projects.” The minimum grant available through the Rural Business Grant is £5,000, and depending on the project and investment needed applicants may be required to provide match funding. The Rural Business Grant will run until all funds have been awarded, and all projects must be deliverable before 31 March 2025. Full details on eligibility criteria are available with the Expressions of Interest form online. North Kesteven’s Rural England Prosperity Fund allocation is an addendum to the UK Shared Prosperity Fund, to help support rural areas in England and the two Levelling Up Fund missions of improving living standards and growing pride of place. The Rural Business Grant has received £450,000 from the UK Government through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund.

New CFO for Watches of Switzerland

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New CFO for Watches of Switzerland
Leicester-based Watches of Switzerland Group is set to appoint a new chief financial officer as Bill Floydd stands down from his role from 12 May. Bill will be succeeded by Anders Romberg, who previously served as the group’s CFO for seven years from 2014 to 2021. Brian Duffy, CEO, said: “On behalf of the Board, I would like to thank Bill for his valuable contribution to the group and we wish him well for the future. “I am delighted that Anders is re-joining the business. He has a strong track record of financial leadership and thorough knowledge of our group, as well as the specialist luxury watch and jewellery categories, and I look forward to working with him again.” Bill Floydd, outgoing CFO, said: “I have enjoyed my time at Watches of Switzerland and would like to extend my thanks to Brian and the wider team for their support. The company has a bright future and I look forward to seeing its continued success.” Anders Romberg, incoming CFO, said: “I am very pleased to be returning to the Watches of Switzerland Group and to once again be working alongside Brian and the team to deliver our long-term strategy and to capitalise on the wealth of growth opportunities available to us.”

Administrators appointed to Alliance Transport Technologies

Tess Egginton
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Administrators appointed to Alliance Transport Technologies
Chris Pole and Ryan Grant from Interpath Advisory have been appointed joint administrators of Alliance Transport Technologies Limited. Operating from two sites in Clowne (Derbyshire) and Featherstone (West Yorkshire), the company specialises in the remanufacture of electronic components, providing a complete aftermarket solution to the commercial vehicle, bus and coach markets. In recent months, the company has faced a number of challenges, including delays to the launch of its new ESS product. The impact of these factors on trading meant that the company required additional investment to support the business moving forward. After exploring their options, the directors took the decision to seek the appointment of administrators. The joint administrators have retained the majority of the company’s 51 employees to enable operations to continue for a short period while they explore the possibility of a sale of the business and assets. Unfortunately, however, 15 members of staff have been made redundant. The joint administrators will be providing support to those impacted as a matter of priority. Chris Pole, Managing Director at Interpath Advisory, said: “Alliance Transport Technologies has been operating for 30 years, and in recent times, has pioneered the use of remanufacturing electronic components to allow commercial vehicle operators to decarbonise the maintenance of their fleets. “Our focus in the coming days will be to explore the potential sale of the business and its assets, and would invite any interested parties to contact us as soon as possible.”

Light Science Technologies looks forward with confidence as revenue rises but losses widen

Tess Egginton
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Light Science Technologies looks forward with confidence as revenue rises but losses widen
Light Science Technologies Holdings plc, the controlled environment agriculture (CEA) technology and contract electronics manufacturing (CEM) group, is looking ahead “with a certain degree of confidence” after “a challenging period” for the business. Newly released audited results for the year ended 30 November 2022 show that revenue  grew by 10.5% to £8.17m, from £7.39m in the year prior. However the company posted a loss before tax of £2.72m. The results come after (post-period) Light Science Technologies raised £1.59m gross proceeds, via a placing, subscription and retail offer, which is to be utilised for group working capital purposes and continued product development and intellectual property protection within the CEA division.

Simon Deacon, CEO of Light Science Technologies Holdings plc, said: “There’s no doubting that this was a challenging period for the company. However the progress made during the year, as we expanded our routes to market across both divisions, means that we can look forward with a certain degree of confidence.

“We have a strong and growing product range providing solutions for a variety of customers and a very healthy pipeline of opportunities. We remain innovative and at the forefront of the sector and are excited about the significant market opportunities. 

“We believe that our energy saving products range will drive new business while the continued food shortages will enable us to showcase our solutions, offering extended season growing.

“Importantly, global trends continue to drive the need to improve food security and, as such, we aim to harness demand and accelerate growth and profitability. Furthermore, as producers seek to navigate the changing landscape, indoor farming is likely to be a key component in tackling ongoing challenges and boosting homegrown food supply. 

“We are reassured by the continued support from existing and new shareholders who participated in the post-period fundraise. The funds raised will help us build on the strong momentum in our target markets. We very much look forward to further extending our reach as we invest in the business – and we believe this will result in increased revenue and margin growth. 

“We see demand trends as a validation of our vision and very much look forward to working with existing and new clients as we position ourselves at the forefront of Agri-tech solutions.”

Ideagen swoops for OnePlace Solutions in second acquisition of 2023

Tess Egginton
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Ideagen swoops for OnePlace Solutions in second acquisition of 2023
Nottinghamshire-headquartered Ideagen has further strengthened its suite of solutions for regulated industries by acquiring OnePlace Solutions.
The second acquisition of 2023 enhances Ideagen’s collaboration capabilities, enabling greater connectivity of Microsoft 365 within organisations. Ideagen CEO, Ben Dorks, said: “Today’s globalised world means secure and effective collaboration is essential to do business. In highly regulated industries, the need for auditable information management becomes even more crucial. “What James and the team at OnePlace Solutions have created is a trusted suite of solutions, that provide a simplified and consistent way for people to engage with business systems built on Microsoft 365. We know these will bring significant value to existing Ideagen customers and new prospects as we use our global footprint to help extend its reach.” James Fox, founder of OnePlace Solutions, headquartered in Sydney Australia, said: “When we looked at our ambitions for the company – to execute on our product roadmap and continue to lead the market with innovative solutions to help our customers – then this alignment with Ideagen made complete sense. “We like that Ideagen’s values mirror our own, it feels like a good fit, and it already has a footprint in the sectors and countries we operate in, so understand what we are trying to achieve. “The opportunity this presents is exciting and I’m looking forward to the journey ahead of us.” James will remain with Ideagen as head of Ideagen OnePlace Solutions. Ben, who also joined Ideagen through an acquired business, added: “I’m pleased that James is choosing to stay with us and be part of our exciting and ambitious plans. His knowledge and experience of Microsoft integration and enterprise collaboration requirements is a real asset to our team.” Ideagen OnePlace Solutions is a Microsoft Gold Partner providing cloud-based software that enables organisations to do more with their existing Microsoft 365 suite, supporting even greater interconnectivity between applications such as Outlook, Teams and SharePoint, thus increasing productivity, workplace collaboration, and enabling intelligent, compliant information management. The acquisition, Ideagen’s second of 2023 following food safety software Ideagen Qadex in January, builds on Ideagen’s presence in Australia which already includes Ideagen CompliSpace, providing governance, risk and compliance support for sectors such as education and aged care. It also adds to Ideagen’s collaboration portal: Ideagen Huddle, its customisable secure client portfolio, Ideagen PleaseReview, a document review, co-authoring and redaction software application and Ideagen Mail Manager, which solves the problem of storing and sharing important information contained within emails.

Government-funded leadership course helps small business leaders boost performance and resilience

Tess Egginton
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Government-funded leadership course helps small business leaders boost performance and resilience
Small business leaders across the East Midlands are invited to take advantage of the 90% government-funded Help to Grow: Management Course which the East Midlands Cyber Resilience Centre (EMCRC) are fully supportive of.

Designed by entrepreneurs and industry experts from the UK’s leading business schools, the course helps small business leaders and senior managers from every industry to boost leadership skills as well as business performance and resilience.

Help to Grow: Management is a 12-week course covering the critical components required to develop a resilient business strategy. It includes online and face-to-face sessions, 10 hours of 1-to-1 mentoring, peer networking, and support to develop a Growth Action Plan. 90% funded by UK Government, the course costs just £750 per person.

This practical leadership course provides time away from the challenges of running a business to invest in your leadership, equipping you with the knowledge and confidence to take your business to the next level:

  • Develop leadership skills across all areas of business including strategic planning, employee engagement, vision and values, finance, and marketing
  • Develop strategies for market segmentation, positioning and targeting to streamline the marketing approach
  • Gain exclusive access to a regional peer network to share practical challenges, ideas, and experiences
  • Work with a mentor to develop a Growth Action Plan tailored to your business and its unique journey
  • Learn how to engage your employees on the business journey and plan the future structure of the organisation
  • Identify new technologies and digital approaches to enhance innovation and productivity across your business
  • Improve operational efficiency to save time and money.

At the end of the Help to Grow: Management Course, you will be ready to lead the change required to scale your business, even in the most challenging of conditions.

To be eligible for the course, your business must employ between 5 and 249 people, and have been operational for at least a year. SMEs employing 10 or more people can enroll 2 senior managers on the course.

The course is delivered by multiple Small Business Charter accredited business schools in the East Midlands, including the University of Leicester School of Business. More information, including course dates and testimonials from course participants, is available from the Help to Grow: Management website.

Ian Harmer, Business Coordinator at the University of Leicester School of Business, said: “I would encourage owners and managers of SMEs with 5 or more employees to find out more by reviewing the participant testimonials at www.le.ac.uk/helptogrow or exploring the case study videos at Help to Grow Management – YouTube. This is a fantastic business opportunity, so do take a look at the resources available to you. The University of Leicester School of Business is delivering the course in both the East Midlands and East of England. The East Midlands course starts on May 5.”

Colin Ellis, Managing Director at the East Midlands Cyber Resilience Centre, added: “The EMCRC exists to help organisations to be resilient to cyber-crime and support them where we can in other ways, too – this is great scheme to help business grow.”

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