Second phase of Unity Square office development approved

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Second phase of Unity Square office development approved
The next phase of Nottingham’s Unity Square office development is set to move ahead after securing approval from the council. Peveril Securities and Sladen Estates are behind the major scheme on Queens Bridge Road, for which the original hybrid application was approved in January 2019.
Phase 1 of Unity Square is now complete and occupied by HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC). Phase 2 would provide a 12 storey office development with 235,000 sq ft of space.
The reserved matters planning application was approved at a planning committee meeting yesterday.

Go ahead given to extend Nottingham building for student scheme

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Go ahead given to extend Nottingham building for student scheme
Plans to extend a Nottingham City Centre building to provide 104 student bedspaces have been approved. Maven Property (Nottingham) LP are behind the proposals for the two storey building on Lower Parliament Street, whose ground floor is occupied by two retail units for Poundland and Bonmarche. The plans for the site involve an upward extension of between one and three stories to create a building three to five stories in height. The ground floor would be retained as retail use, with the upper floors used as 104 student bedspaces with a mixture of cluster and studio flats. The development also includes communal lounges, a gym, a laundry room and cycle store with two small roof gardens. The development would be three stories at the northern end facing Lower Parliament Street, stepping up to five stories facing Thurland Street.

Derby businesses go flat out to win flipping fantastic fundraising pancake race

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Derby businesses go flat out to win flipping fantastic fundraising pancake race

Businesses across Derby went head-to-head in an annual Shrove Tuesday pancake race raising money for city children in the process.

Public relations agency Penguin PR battered the competition to lift the trophy, beating teams from doughnut makers Project D, sportswear giant HUUB and digital marketeers Alphageek.

The annual event was organised by staff at carbon composite company Pentaxia, in Alfreton Road, and was designed to raise money for YMCA Derbyshire’s new nursery provision, Derwent Stepping Stones.

Each firm taking part donated to the registered charity which will allow nursery staff to purchase a new water wall for the children’s outdoor play area, replacing a broken one.

Penguin PR director Sarah Newton said: “We’ve taken part in a few fundraising activities for the YMCA including the annual sleep easy event and the community meal; it’s such a brilliant cause.“We thoroughly enjoyed the race and, even though the combined age of our team was significantly higher than most of the others, it was flipping brilliant to win.”

It is the fourth time the annual race has taken place and other businesses taking part included Natwest, two teams from Pentaxia and a team from YMCA Derbyshire.The 25m relay was held over three heats, with each team member required to flip the pancake at the start, the middle and the end.

The winners received a carbon trophy and medals, while every competitor received a pot of honey made by Pentaxia’s own bees, who live in five hives at the Alfreton Road site.

Pentaxia Managing Director Tim Ollier said: “As a company we are very keen to give back to the local community and if we can have some fun and rope in some other local businesses then all the better.

“This year’s pancake day challenge was absolutely brilliant, and we’d like to thank everyone involved. We can’t wait for next year to try and win the trophy back.”

New report reveals recommendations to manufacture a digital future for industry

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New report reveals recommendations to manufacture a digital future for industry
A major new report that seeks to future-proof the UK’s manufacturing sector, helping it adapt to, and benefit from, digital technologies has been published. The Digital World 2050 report marks the conclusion of a six-year study funded by Connected Everything – an ESPRC-funded network led by the University of Nottingham comprising circular economists, digital manufacturing experts, and more. It has identified five key recommendations that will support the longevity of UK manufacturing. Co-authored by researchers from the Universities of Nottingham, Exeter, Liverpool, and Cambridge, the study draws together evidence from a plethora of areas, such as policy literature and government documents, as well as conversations with leaders from academia, industry and policy that took the form of conferences, surveys and roundtables. Dr Oliver Fisher, co-author and former research fellow at the University of Nottingham’s Faculty of Engineering, said: “When we started this horizon scanning work, imagining what manufacturing in 2050 would look like was a daunting prospect. But by bringing together of expertise from across disciplines we were able to gain new insights and perspectives on the challenges and opportunities that may emerge as digital technologies are embedded within manufacturing processes and workforces. “I hope the knowledge generated within this report will help accelerate the transition towards a sustainable manufacturing future.” To establish the recommendations, researchers identified four themes: industrial digital technologies in 2050; digitisation and the manufacturing workforce of the future; digital support for achieving net zero by 2050; and digitally enabled manufacturing excellence – from which five recommendations emerged strongly:
  1. Connect technology to manufacturers: To create opportunities, increase productivity and solve industry challenges.
  2. Reduce digital manufacturing knowledge barriers: To make solutions simple and intuitive for all users.
  3. Consolidate digital manufacturing guidance: So that manufacturers can access the relevant expertise to implement solutions.
  4. Support employee wellbeing during transition: To help them engage with digital transformation and not be left behind.
  5. Transparency of value chain data: To greater understand environmental and social impacts of manufacturing decisions and drive more sustainable choices.
Other recommendations included encouraging researchers to demonstrate the digital manufacturing costs vs benefits; supporting the design of sustainable products; providing financial incentives for manufacturers to decarbonise; and removing legislation preventing waste from being used as a viable alternative resource. Fiona Charnley, co-author and professor of Circular Innovation at the University of Exeter Business School, said: “Digital technology is becoming embedded throughout manufacturing and society and has a critical and growing part to play in addressing manufacturing challenges and delivering a more sustainable, circular and resilient future. “This horizon-scanning study will help industry identify suitable collaboration partners for future research, and determine opportunities for investment in new technologies. Maximising its contribution will depend on the decisions we make today, and the actions of governments, industry, and funders.”

Locally-owned franchise expands into London

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Locally-owned franchise expands into London
A franchise has secured a key expansion just months after it was bought by Long Eaton entrepreneur Liam Hobbs. Mr Hobbs bought the More Than Loft Ladders franchise last October – nine years after he became a franchise holder with the company and built up his business across Derbyshire, Nottinghamshire and South Yorkshire – operating from his base in Long Eaton. The first new franchisee to join More Than Loft Ladders since the acquisition are London-based entrepreneurs Indika Wanigaratne and Krish Hapugoda who will be operating in Edgeware, Harrow, Uxbridge, Watford and Wembley. Both have run several businesses in the South East – most recently a restaurant near Watford. Mr Wanigaratne explained: “I first became aware of the business potential for loft conversions when I needed to do work on my own house to create additional storage space. I contacted local and national companies and was shocked by some of the standard of services on offer. “Having supported the trades people who I eventually hired for the job, I started to look into diversifying my own business interests into this field and came across More Than Loft Ladders. “Liam’s experience as a franchise holder himself and the comprehensive help and support he provides for everyone in the franchise is amazing and we are very much looking forward to building our business in this geographical area. Krish and I will be recruiting fitters so that we can concentrate on sales, marketing and customer service. “More Than Loft Ladders is a growing business which operates in a competitive industry but, with the support of Liam and his team and the fantastic reputation that the company already has in other parts of the country, I am confident that we will make a success of our new venture.” Liam Hobbs continued: “We already have seven franchise holders who cover a wide area from Liverpool to Northampton and are delighted to have Indika and Krish on board in this important patch around London so soon after acquiring the franchise. “We have been working hard to cement the support package available to new and existing franchisees which ranges from a full training programme and customer finance packages. Having been a franchisee myself, I know how important it is to be part of a network with support, advice and additional services. “This is a growing market – particularly in the current economic climate. Homeowners recognise that, rather than taking on more mortgage debt with a larger home, they can maximise the storage or living space in their current homes by converting the loft. “Upgrading insulation at the same time also makes perfect sense in both the shorter and longer terms with heating bills continuing to rise at such an eye-watering rate. “With a solid reputation and growing customer demand, I am confident that our growth plans will be achieved, and I look forward to providing personal and practical support to many more franchise holders in the coming months.”

New images reveal how Leicester railway station will look after radical overhaul

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New images reveal how Leicester railway station will look after radical overhaul
New images showing how Leicester’s railway station will look following a proposed multi-million-pound transformation have been shared by the city council. Leicester City Council is planning to restore the historic station building back to its Victorian glory, relocating its main entrance so that it opens onto Station Street and directly faces the city centre. The city council has already successfully secured £17.6million from the Government’s Levelling Up Fund to help realise the ambitious plans to revitalise the landmark building and create a more attractive and accessible gateway into the city. Now, the city council, Network Rail and East Midlands Railway (EMR) are working in partnership to bring forward the ambitious proposals, with the support of key industry stakeholders. City Mayor Peter Soulsby said: “Leicester’s railway station is a beautiful building but is in need of a radical overhaul to help it meet the needs of a modern city the size of Leicester. “We have been working closely with rail industry partners to develop ambitious plans to revamp and revitalise the station. It is a major project that will make a huge difference to the city. It will help transform the area into a vibrant gateway and make a vital contribution to Leicester’s future growth and prosperity. “We also have the chance to restore this historic, landmark building back to its Victorian glory. “The award of over £17million from the Government’s Levelling Up Fund is a tremendous endorsement of the importance of this project. Since then, we have been carrying out detailed design work and we’re very excited to share new images that show how the station will look following its ambitious redevelopment.”
Leicester Station artist's impression
Will Rogers, Managing Director for East Midlands Railway, said: “We’re delighted the investment at Leicester railway station has been approved and we’re excited to work alongside Leicester City Council and Network Rail to significantly improve the facilities for our customers. “The investment will see the iconic Leicester railway station restored back to its Victorian glory. The development will transform Leicester, as the gateway to the city, by encouraging integration with the surrounding community and offering an improved customer experience to all station visitors.” Gavin Crook, Principal Programme Sponsor for Network Rail’s East Midlands route, said: “The new images show just how far this project will transform Leicester station entrance, bringing better facilities and creating a fitting gateway to the city. “We’ll continue to work closely with Leicester City Council and East Midlands Railway to deliver these ambitious, major improvements for passengers.” Under the plans, the area outside the entrance will be remodelled with a ramp and steps leading up to the main entrance to the main concourse and ticket hall. The ticket hall itself will be re-configured and opened up to provide more space for passengers. New skylights will be installed in place of the existing suspended ceiling to further enhance the sense of space and let more natural light into this part of the building. A new secure cycle store will be created close to the new entrance. Station Street will be closed to traffic and replaced with an attractive new pedestrianised open space, with trees and landscaping, that will link directly to the Granby Street super crossing and into the city centre. Taxis will be relocated from inside the existing covered main entrance hall – or porte-cochere – to a new purpose-built looped taxi rank area off Fox Street, immediately adjacent to the new entrance. This will free up the glass-roofed porte-cochere to be revamped as an attractive new plaza for cafes, bars or retail.
Leicester Station artist's impression
The original Station Street façade of the Grade II-listed station building will also be revealed and carefully restored. The proposed transformation will require the demolition of the Parcel Yard pub building and the next-door taxi office. The owners have been informed of the plans and negotiations are ongoing. Planning and listed building consent will also be required before work can start on site. If given the go-ahead, work is expected to start on-site later this year. Before then, people will be invited to have their say on the proposals when an online consultation and digital walkthrough of the plans launches next month.

Strongest year to date for Midlands deal activity

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Strongest year to date for Midlands deal activity
Deal activity in the Midlands marked its strongest year to date in 2022, with 1,068 transactions up by 2.3% year on year and a total value of £26.8bn, up by 22.6%, according to Experian’s M&A review.
The Midlands was the UK’s busiest region for deal making outside of London and the South East, with an involvement in 12% of total value and 15% of the total volume of all UK deals. Value analysis shows that Midlands mega deals valued at over £1bn were up by 20% to six transactions, while there was also a strong upturn in the smaller deal segment. Experian suggests that 2022 was a period for big ticket exits and less private equity investment, with six acquisitions and only three IBOs, and four deals with an exit. Overall IBO and SBOs were down by 20% compared to 2021 and the volume of deals funded by venture capital fell by 11% to 135 transactions, bucking the national trend. There was a significant cross-border element to Midlands deal making and 2022 was the busiest ever year for Midlands outbound investment in terms of deal volume, with 54 deals – up 35% year on year. Meanwhile, inward deals were up by 20%, with 91 deals representing the highest figure for overseas M&A into Midlands-based companies since 2007.
By industry, the volume of transactions in the Midlands’ manufacturing sector remained consistent from 2021 to 2022 retaining the top spot in terms of both volume and value, up by just over 1% for each year on year. Despite wholesale and retail volumes also remaining stable as the second most active sector in the Midlands with 257 transactions the value of these dropped around 50% compared to the previous year. Most sectors have seen a positive improvement in the volume and value of deals, in line with the overall increase in transactions for the region. However, there were some notable exceptions with professional services dropping by 8% to 222 deals during 2022 and infocomms, which fell by 3.6% to 188 deals. Experian’s research further shows a decline in the volume of private equity funded transactions in the Midlands, but the volume of deals funded by the first and second most active investors in the region, Midlands Engine Investment Fund and Business Growth Fund increased from 12 and ten in 2021 to 13 and 12 last year, respectively – suggesting that the core investors are still finding deals in the region. In contrast the volume of debt funded deals has increased in the Midlands by both volume and value up by 6% and 34% on the last year results. The two most prolific debt providers were HSBC with 12 (totalling £49m) and Shawbrook Bank with nine deals, while SME Capital and Thincats both provided debt for eight transactions each.

Notts green hydrogen pioneer backed with £36m investment

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Notts green hydrogen pioneer backed with £36m investment
Nottinghamshire-based green hydrogen pioneer GeoPura has received £36m investment from global industry leaders, with the round led by GM Ventures, the investment arm of General Motors, and co-led by Barclays Sustainable Impact Capital with participation from SWEN CP and Siemens Energy Ventures to scale its green hydrogen business, which is replacing diesel-fuelled generators and enabling zero-emissions energy across the board to create a more sustainable world. The world-renowned investors will also act as strategic partners for GeoPura as it scales its hydrogen power generation technology. GeoPura currently provides hydrogen power to Balfour Beatty, HS2, National Grid and the BBC among other sustainability-driven customers, replacing traditional diesel generators with its Hydrogen Power Unit (HPU) technology. The HPUs are used for temporary, supplementary, off grid and backup power. GeoPura plans to grow the use of hydrogen into other hard-to-decarbonise areas of our energy system, such as EV charging and supplementary grid power, as economies continue to electrify. With hubs in Nottingham and Newcastle upon Tyne in the UK, the £36m investment will enable GeoPura to mass manufacture HPUs alongside partner Siemens Energy, increase the production of green hydrogen to fuel the units and drive green skills in the North East and throughout the UK, while supporting the global deployment of the technology. GeoPura plans to deploy a fleet of over 3,600 HPUs by 2033, providing clean, low-cost reliable power, and displacing more than six million tonnes of CO2 emissions through their operation over their life. In response to customer demand, the company aims to bring a number of new products to market, addressing smaller and larger power requirements. The company will work closely with its new strategic partners to advance the technology needed to enable the mass electrification that underpins decarbonisation. Andrew Cunningham, CEO of GeoPura, said: “Green hydrogen is too often seen as a technology that will happen in the future, but GeoPura and our partners are delivering a commercially viable technology, today. The world can’t afford to wait a decade for green fuels to scale – we must act now. “This investment allows us to build on our installed base of HPUs and hydrogen production infrastructure to stimulate the green hydrogen economy, and then expand the use of clean fuels into other hard-to-decarbonise areas of our energy system. “We have secured the right mix of investors, forming strategic partnerships that not only provide the funds to enable us to scale rapidly, but also the skills and resources to accelerate the transition to zero emission fuels. With the support of our investors we can help turn the market on its head and build a green hydrogen economy this decade, not next.” “The need for green hydrogen energy solutions is expanding as a wide range of customers move toward replacing diesel-powered sources,” said Wade Sheffer, Managing Director, GM Ventures. “Our investment in GeoPura demonstrates our focus on scaling breakthrough innovations that can advance sustainability, while supporting GM’s progress toward an all-electric, zero-emissions future. GeoPura’s HPUs and GM’s HYDROTEC fuel cell expertise have the potential to provide better energy solutions across industries.” James Ferrier, Director, Principal Investments, Barclays Sustainable Impact Capital, said: “Building low-carbon capacity and capability in our energy supply is key for a timely transition to net-zero. Whilst most of the focus in the UK is rightly on ‘greening’ our energy grid, industries which are reliant on fossil-fuel powered generators – such as construction, film production and events – should not be forgotten. “Establishing tailored methods of off-grid green energy generation such as GeoPura’s Hydrogen Power Unit technology will be crucial for the decarbonisation of these industries, and we are excited to support GeoPura as they begin to scale.” François Pasquier, Investment Director at SWEN CP, said: “SWEN CP, through its impact strategy dedicated to renewable gas infrastructures in Europe, is proud to support the growth of GeoPura and to enable carbon emission reductions in hard to abate sectors. We believe that the quality of the team, the robustness of the technology and the strategic partnership with Siemens Energy are the perfect ingredients to make GeoPura a successful solution to tackle climate change.” Kendra Rauschenberger, General Partner at Siemens Energy Ventures, said: “Having worked alongside GeoPura from the early days, it has been incredible to see the development of this business as more customers turn to utilizing green hydrogen for their sustainable energy needs and commitments. “At Siemens Energy Ventures, our focus is on building, investing in and scaling up start-ups that can make a real difference to the complex energy transition our world is facing. Our strategic investment, alongside the investments from all partners, make GeoPura ready for its next phase of rapid growth. We look forward to being part of the journey.”

Further information submitted to support £200m Leicestershire logistics hub planning application

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Further information submitted to support £200m Leicestershire logistics hub planning application

The Drummond Estate, a local family trust, and partners Landchain, have submitted additional information as part of the planning process for a £200 million logistics hub close to junction 21 of the M1.

The site is allocated in Blaby District Council’s adopted Local Plan for employment use and is the only single large site capable of meeting the Council’s employment land requirements fully and responding to the pressing need for strategic logistics space.

The proposals would create approximately 2,000 new jobs and a breadth of opportunities in the employment training sectors. It would deliver 106,830 sq m of advanced warehouse and distribution space with integral offices, offering the ability to sub-divide plots to provide flexibility to satisfy a wide range of demand. Set within a new woodland belt and landscape framework, it also includes a specialised Logistics Training Centre, which would assist in plugging the growing skills-gap for high-tech logistics employees across the region.

The planning application for the 30-hectare site, which lies to the east of the M1 and south west of the Enderby Park and Ride, was submitted in 2019. The new information submitted includes:

Design and Access Statement – to reflect the new design and updated drainage strategy, including the removal of the proposed access road from St Johns, replacing this with an increased area of public open space within the east of the site.

Environmental Statement – which reflects the amends to the scheme and includes accumulative impacts of any further new developments since the original application was submitted in 2019.

Transport Assessment – updated following further extensive modelling work to assess the proposed development in Leicestershire County Council’s Pan Regional Transport Model. An extensive multimillion-pound package of highways and transport improvements have been identified and incorporated, including those identified by Leicestershire County Council, such as:

– Lubbesthorpe Way widening scheme

– Upgrades to the B4114/Park & Ride and B4114/Penman Way signal junctions to MOVA signal operation

– Desford Crossroad scheme improvement

– Travel Packs for all new employees with 6-month bus pass

– New footpath/cycleway along St Johns

– Delivery of a highway scheme of capacity enhancement at the A563 / Meridian South roundabout

It has also been agreed that the Proposed Development will include for a Framework Travel Plan and a strategy will also be agreed for the provision of a bus service to serve the development.

As a result of the additional work and mitigation measures, the Local Highway Authority has confirmed that the impacts on the road network would not be severe and concludes that the residual cumulative impacts of development can be mitigated in accordance with the NPPF.

Martin Ward, on behalf of the landowners The Drummond Estate and Landchain, said: “We have worked closely with the local highways authority and planning authority to agree the scope of the additional work and have now submitted this so that the application can be considered.

“This £200 million high quality development supports the Council’s allocation of this site for employment uses in its adopted Local Plan and will create thousands of local jobs. The Training Centre will assist those looking to upskill within today’s high-tech logistics sector.”

The logistics sector is fast-growing and becoming increasingly more technologically sophisticated, it already accounts for more than a tenth of jobs in the region.

Ben Grinnall from Landchain said: “With the added benefit of access to a large workforce in the area, this strategic location is ideal to realise the growth opportunity of this sector, benefitting the regional economy.

“The proposal creates a strong landscaped framework within which this very high quality, environmentally-advanced development will be set. It will help to meet the needs of national and local businesses with well-designed employment space at a Grade A logistics site.”

Leicestershire-based Stephen George was the architect.

Survey shows 8% average drop in employee engagement since the pandemic

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Survey shows 8% average drop in employee engagement since the pandemic
Average employee engagement has dropped by 8% since the pandemic, according to a survey of more than 800 workers. The research was carried out by Nottingham Business School (NBS), part of Nottingham Trent University, and Engage for Success (EFS), who were supported by the CIPD. An online survey conducted in 2022 asked a representative sample of the UK population to self-report their levels of engagement across four main areas – engagement with their job, their colleagues, their manager, and their organisation. It also required them to reflect on their experiences during the pandemic. The results – which form the first EFS Employee Engagement Index – showed that employee engagement significantly dropped by 11% during the pandemic for the majority of employees across all of the areas of engagement measured. Only a 3% creep in recovery has since been seen, with employee engagement in the UK now rated as 8% lower than before the pandemic. However, the drop in engagement was clearly impacted by the organisational response and the methods used to engage with employees during the pandemic. Employers who used a variety of methods, providing options to their employees, were relatively insulated by the drops in engagement. Respondents who stated their organisations offered them no online health and wellbeing initiatives during the pandemic reported a 13% drop in engagement. This dramatically compared to only a 1% drop for respondents who reported their organisations provided four or more health and wellbeing initiatives. Similar findings were seen for learning and development, communication channels and employee involvement methods. Almost half (44%) of respondents reported having no learning and development opportunities available to them by their employer during the pandemic. The degree of drop in engagement also varied across position, demographics, and personal circumstances. Engagement of respondents on furlough was lower than for non-furloughed workers and remains lower. Co-lead researcher Dr Sarah Pass, senior lecturer in Human Resource Management at NBS and EFS board member, said: “Our findings show the importance of getting the organisational response right during times of crisis and uncertainty for employees. “Organisations that involved, supported, and developed their employees saw minimal drops in employee engagement during the pandemic and are almost back to current levels. Whilst those who did little saw both significant drops in engagement during the pandemic, and a minimal creep since. “Findings also highlight the fundamental role of the line manager with frequency of interactions with managers linked to levels of employee engagement.” The EFS Employee Engagement Index will now be introduced annually on a national level but can also be used by individual organisations to give them insight into areas they may wish to develop and empower them to gain a fundamental understanding of employee engagement in their organisation. Jonny Gifford, senior adviser for organisational behaviour at the CIPD, the professional body for HR and people development, said: “The pandemic posed a huge disruption to working lives and many organisations are still establishing what the ‘new normal’ is for them. Employee motivation, commitment and how people identify with their organisations need to be at the heart of this. “After a period of extreme disruption, now is a good time to rebuild engagement with a strong focus on development opportunities, wellbeing support and rebuilding communications and interactions. This will help organisations attract, retain and get the best out of people and is key to individual and organisational success.” Dr Pass added: “A drop in engagement during the pandemic is understandable, however the lack of rebound is deeply concerning, especially in the current climate. Organisations need to act and put the people issues at the centre of the business agenda if they want to successfully meet the uncertainties and opportunities ahead.” The findings have been published in full in the UK Employee Engagement Survey 2022 report, including a foreword by David MacLeod and Nita Clarke, co-authors of the MacLeod Review and co-founders of Engage for Success, and Peter Cheese, chair of the EFS board.

Manufacturing output volumes fall at fastest rate in over two years

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Manufacturing output volumes fall at fastest rate in over two years
Manufacturing output volumes fell at their fastest pace since September 2020 in the three months to February, according to the CBI’s latest Industrial Trends Survey. The survey found that expectations for selling price inflation were at their lowest since May 2021, having declined steadily from the multi-decade highs seen in early 2022. But expectations for selling price inflation remained well above their long-run average. The volume of total order books and export order books were reported as below normal, while stocks of finished goods were seen as broadly adequate. The survey, based on the responses of 280 manufacturing firms, found:
  • Manufacturing output volumes fell in the three months to February (weighted balance of -16%, from -1% in the three months to January), a significant disappointment to last month’s expectations (+19%), and at the fastest pace since September 2020. Output is expected to rise moderately in the three months to May (+7%).
    • Output fell in 11 out of 17 sectors in the three months to February. The decrease in output reported this quarter was largely driven by the motor vehicles & transport equipment, chemicals and paper, printing & media sectors.
  • Total order books were reported as below “normal” in February, to a similar extent as in January (-16% from -17%). This was broadly in line with the long-run average (-13%). Export order books were also seen as below normal and to a greater extent than last month (-27% from -22%). This was below the long-run average (-18%).
  • Expectations for average selling price inflation in the three months ahead were the lowest since May 2021 (+40%, from +41% in January), having declined steadily from the multi-decade highs seen in early 2022 (+80% in March 2022). But they remained well above the long-run average (+6%).
  • Stocks of finished goods were seen as adequate in February, with the balance broadly similar to January (+9% from +12%).
Anna Leach, CBI deputy chief economist, said: “Conditions in manufacturing remain challenging, with output disappointing and order books having thinned out since late last year. However, if growth is going to return to the sector on a sustainable basis, then manufacturers need more than the boost some will receive from lower energy prices over the winter season. “The Chancellor must use the upcoming budget to tackle one of the biggest threats to the future competitiveness of the sector. Following the Inflation Reduction Act in the US, manufacturers are worried about the relative competitiveness of operating from a UK base. They are calling on the government to deliver its own alternative to help drive a home-grown, secure, low-cost energy system and sector by significantly boosting incentives for green investment in the UK.”

Nottingham-based gas cylinder maker appoints new Europe sales director as company goes for growth

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Nottingham-based gas cylinder maker appoints new Europe sales director as company goes for growth
Luxfer Gas Cylinders, which has its UK base in Nottingham, has welcomed a new sales director – one with ambitious plans to grow Luxfer Gas Cylinders Europe significantly over the next few years. Following a distinguished career spanning almost 25 years in the automotive, manufacturing and engineering industries, Nick Herbert joins Luxfer at an important time, with the cylinder-maker recently celebrating its 125-year anniversary. “Luxfer really is Nottingham’s best kept secret, tucked away in Colwick, and when I saw the role, it ticked so many boxes,” says Nick. “There’s a great culture here. It’s a dynamic business, a growing and stable company with the strength of a global group behind it. Luxfer clearly invests in its people – high calibre, passionate individuals – and its mission is to create a safe, clean and energy efficient world. That’s inspiring in itself.” As Luxfer continues to expand its alternative fuel offering, designing hydrogen solutions to help decarbonise the transport sector, Nick’s mix of experience was a perfect match. An engineer by degree, studying at Loughborough University, Nick spent the first part of his career in the profession before evolving his expertise into project management. Roles with leading automotive organisations Tsubakimoto and Gates Corporation followed, working with the likes of Toyota, Ford, Jaguar and Volvo, after which Nick secured his first director position with vehicle conversion specialists Bri-Stor Systems. He then ventured into the green energy sector with a company manufacturing components for wind turbines. Nick attributes the move to Luxfer Gas Cylinders to being inspired by its ground-breaking work harnessing hydrogen fuel. “Before joining Luxfer, I didn’t have an appreciation of the scale and diversity of the gas cylinder industry. Nor did I realise that the hydrogen economy, from a transportation perspective, is as dynamic as it is. That was a huge draw for me. “It was also a great opportunity to tie together all my experience as an engineer and a project manager, with my automotive experience, business development, commercial leadership, sales background, and just be a part of something inspiring, as we move forward with our growth strategy.” Nick has no doubt that Luxfer Gas Cylinders is in good company as innovators in the region. “The Midlands is a real hotbed of industrial excellence,” he continues. “In the East Midlands we have household names like Rolls Royce, Toyota and Bombardier. Slightly further afield is JCB and in the West Midlands is Jaguar, Land Rover and Aston Martin, to name a few. But as well as industrial excellence, we have world-leading academia through the region’s universities, right on our doorstep.” With a passion for UK manufacturing and particularly supporting STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths) education, Nick is keen to attract more young talent into the industry by shifting perspectives. “Manufacturing and engineering is not necessarily what people think it is. There are many other routes to supporting UK manufacturing that aren’t traditional ‘engineering’ based, and if more young people see that, it’s going to open up manufacturing to people who might have never thought of it before. Bringing in future talent is really going to help boost and support UK manufacturing, far and wide. “Because you study engineering at university or as an apprentice, it doesn’t mean you’re destined to be doing that for the rest of your career. I’m from an engineering background but I no longer work day-to-day as an engineer. You get that grounding and then you can go on to so many other areas of interest.” As a champion of nurturing young talent, Nick is pleased to be joining a company with an established and recognised apprenticeship scheme. “As industry manufacturing grows, the attraction of apprenticeships grows,” says Nick. “Higher education isn’t for everybody, yet if you still want to develop and progress, an apprenticeship offers that ability to earn and learn – what’s better than that?” He concludes: “The best career advice I would give to others wanting to build their future in this industry is work hard at being your best and doing your best. Every chance you get, give it your all. Focus on that and the opportunities will come.”

New leadership team announced as wilko accelerates turnaround

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New leadership team announced as wilko accelerates turnaround
Nottinghamshire-headquartered wilko has formed a new senior leadership team, as the household and garden retailer implements plans to stabilise the business and accelerate its turnaround. CEO Mark Jackson says: “We’ve already begun our turnaround programme to drive wilko forward. As part of this we quickly identified significant changes to the wilko operating model to enable us to stabilise the business, and then thrive again. “We’ve reviewed our strategic plan and have set three priorities: getting the business in better shape, drive sales both instore and online, driving down operating costs.” To “enable a step change in business performance,” and drive its turnaround plan, wilko has put in place a refreshed, “more streamlined,” senior leadership team. Dave Murphy, Group Finance Director, becomes Chief Finance Officer replacing Karen Mackay, who has resigned from the company and will be leaving in March, following a handover period. Amanda Jones, Retail Director, will take on the new role of Chief Operating Officer with responsibility for stores, logistics, and central operations. Deborah Rabey joins as Interim Chief Customer Officer to lead the commercial, digital and marketing teams. Deborah is an accomplished commercial director with a wealth of experience across supply chains, global sourcing and marketing following 14 years at director level with Tesco. Philippa McNamara continues as MD of the product development unit – Kin Limited. Anne-Marie Haydock is promoted into the HR Director role to replace Kate Price who is leaving the business in April, following a handover period. James Dorling continues in his role as Property, Procurement and Transformation Director. Mark continues: “To deliver our strategic priorities we must remain focused, and our leadership structure needs to be fully aligned to achieve this. Having now reviewed the current structure, we need to remove both the duplication of functions and operating costs. “As part of this review, we’ve had to take some necessary and difficult decisions as we create a new operating structure that helps stabilise the business, from which we can then drive the business forward. “Having now announced the new top leadership functions, we’ve already begun conversations with the senior management team and wider organisation to implement the new structure. “This includes some changes to our management structure at both our stores and head office. Right now, we’re unable to confirm the scale of change as conversations are ongoing but it will mean a number of roles will be made redundant to support the wider plan. “We’re fully supporting affected individuals as a result of these changes. Such change will be unsettling to our team members and the wider business, and we’re acting swiftly to put in place the new organisational structure.” Wilko is the UK’s 23rd biggest retailer, employing 16,000 team members. It operates 400 stores across the UK.

Digital High Street Bootcamp launches for Rushcliffe businesses

Tess Egginton
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Digital High Street Bootcamp launches for Rushcliffe businesses
Businesses in Rushcliffe are receiving targeted support from East Midlands Chamber to embrace digital platforms with the launch of a new programme. The Rushcliffe Digital High Street project has received £25,000 from the Government via the UK Shared Prosperity Fund (UKSPF), following a successful bid from Rushcliffe Borough Council. The project will help independent businesses located on a high street within the borough to improve their in-store and online presence. A key part of the project is the Rushcliffe Digital High Street Bootcamp, a 12-week series of webinars taking place on Monday evenings, from 6pm until 7pm. These bite-sized chunks of learning, which begin on 6 March and run until June, aim to help businesses use digital tools to boost their high street presence. The topics are varied and include developing know-how on social media, setting up or improving a website, better SEO, email marketing, online and social advertising, and e-commerce. Diane Beresford, deputy chief executive of East Midlands Chamber, said: “Independent businesses thrive on the passion of business owners and their dedicated teams, but it is often hard to keep pace with all the tools and techniques that can help them grow. “We’re fully aware that high street businesses have very full working days. That’s why we’ve devised a series of webinars to run in the evenings when business owners can sit back and be guided by our expert consultants for a very manageable 45 minutes, with a further 15 minutes for any questions on implementing the advice provided.” Access to one-to-one support with Chamber digital adviser Steve Phillips is also being provided to 20 businesses on a first-come, first-served basis as part of the Rushcliffe Digital High Street project. Councillor Andy Edyvean, deputy leader and portfolio holder for business and growth at Rushcliffe Borough Council, said: “The past three years have been especially challenging for high street businesses through the Covid-19 pandemic, experiencing supply issues, rising fuel costs, a shift to online shopping, and a challenging and unpredictable economy. “We’re therefore one of the first to act in the region by utilising this UKSPF funding and applying it to local businesses’ advantage, with the support and expert insight of Steve and the Chamber. “It builds on our support for local businesses in recent times, distributing Covid grants quickly and effectively, webinars during the lockdown periods and high street digital recovery grants to assist with digital trading, payment and marketing initiatives.” The programme of targeted support complements the Rushcliffe Business Adviser project, which is also being delivered by East Midlands Chamber. Funded by Rushcliffe Borough Council, the Government and European Regional Development Fund, the project gives businesses beyond the high street the support they need via the Chamber-appointed Rushcliffe business adviser Insan Farooqi.

Frasers Group commences new share buyback programme

Tess Egginton
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Frasers Group commences new share buyback programme

Shirebrook-based Frasers Group has launched a new share buyback programme.

The aggregate purchase price of all shares acquired under the programme will be no greater than £80m.

The maximum number of shares that may be purchased under the programme will be 10m ordinary shares.

Frasers Group says the purpose of the programme – for the period up to and including the last trading day prior to the company’s financial year end on 30 April 2023 – is to reduce the share capital of the company.

Nuclear industry develops £20m plant in to Derby

Stuart Pearcey
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Nuclear industry develops £20m plant in to Derby
Later this year, the Sheffield-based Nuclear Advanced Manufacturing Research Centre will open a Nuclear AMRC Midlands facility at Infinity Park, Derby. The £20 million facility will focus on new technology areas to deliver the maximum impact for the UK’s nuclear manufacturers, and supply chain development across the Midlands region. Meanwhile, it has signed Tamworth-based Brown & Holmes, which is also developing a dedicated facility for clean assembly in Derby, to collaborate on technology development and expand its presence in the nuclear sector. The Nuclear Advanced Manufacturing Research Centre (Nuclear AMRC), based at the University of Sheffield and part of the UK’s High Value Manufacturing Catapult, collaborates with companies of all sizes to help them innovate and win work in the nuclear supply chain. Kevin Ward, managing director of Brown and Holmes, says: “The opportunity to sit alongside and collaborate with industry leaders will help us build on our past experiences working in the sector. We firmly believe this will be a major growth area in supporting the world achieve its goals for clean energy and sustainability, and one we wish to be a part of.” Sean Murphy, strategic relationship manager for the Nuclear AMRC, says: “We are pleased to welcome Brown and Holmes as members of the Nuclear AMRC. We look forward to supporting their continued exploration of the nuclear market, building on the exceptionally strong base they have today. “I was personally very impressed with the operations at Brown and Holmes, and feel that the Nuclear AMRC has much to gain from collaborating. Their expertise in fixturing, assembly and machining will enhance our research board and other areas of work, and I see us working together to jointly solve problems or innovate with new ideas.” As part of its tier two membership, Brown & Holmes will provide specialist design and technical services to support projects at the Nuclear AMRC, including consultancy on workholding solutions for the centre’s array of production-scale machining and fabrication cells at its research factory in Rotherham.  

Chesterfield-based commercial law firm appoints new employment director

Tess Egginton
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Chesterfield-based commercial law firm appoints new employment director
CMP Legal, a niche commercial law firm that specialises in corporate, commercial, dispute resolution and employment, has expanded its team with the appointment of a new employment director. The Chesterfield-based law firm that delivers services to clients in Derbyshire, Sheffield and across the UK, has welcomed Lauren Pickard as its new employment director. Lauren is a specialist employment law solicitor and joins CMP Legal from national law firm Knights plc where she worked as a senior associate, previously based in Sheffield. She has a wealth of knowledge and employment law experience from managing performance, disciplinary and grievance matters to redundancy and restructuring advice, delivering training, drafting contracts and much more. Lauren Pickard, employment director at CMP Legal, says: “I am delighted to join CMP Legal at such an exciting time for the firm in terms of growth. CMP Legal has swiftly established itself as a niche practice offering high quality advice. The lawyers at CMP Legal have a wealth of experience and this, combined with their desire to do things in a dynamic and progressive way, works strongly to the benefit of clients.” Lauren takes a practical and pragmatic approach to ensure that clients can take a commercial approach to employment law problems and CMP Legal looks forward to clients benefitting from her support as the employment team is further strengthened with her appointment Neil Brown, co-founder at CMP Legal, says: “Lauren has an excellent reputation in the region and will be a fantastic asset to both our business and our clients. We are delighted to welcome her into our expanding team as we continue to deliver exceptional service to our clients.” Anna Cattee, co-founder of CMP Legal, adds: “Having Lauren onboard not only strengthens our already highly regarded employment law offering, but strengthens our corporate acquisitions and mergers process for all things employment. She’s so personable that I know she’ll fit right in and our clients will reap the benefits of her knowledge.” Lauren will head up CMP Legal’s Employment Team working in conjunction with CMP Legal’s co-founder Neil Brown.

Rail hub consultation is inadequate says Council

Tess Egginton
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Rail hub consultation is inadequate says Council
Blaby District Council has submitted its first response following the submission of the application for the Hinckley National Rail Freight Interchange. The application, from developers Tritax Symmetry, was lodged with the Planning Inspectorate on 3 February 2023. The Council had two weeks to comment on whether it believed consultation on the proposals had been adequate. This Adequacy of Consultation Representation has now been sent into the Planning Inspectorate highlighting significant concerns and setting out the Council’s belief that the consultation was not adequate and falls short of the standard expected. The scheme, earmarked for 660 acres of land between the M69 and the Leicester to Birmingham railway line, falls mainly within the boundary of Blaby District Council, south-west of Elmesthorpe village. While Blaby District Council can comment on the application it does not make the final decision – the scheme is considered of such scale and national importance it is determined by the Secretary of State. The Council’s Adequacy of Consultation Representation says:
  • Incomplete, inaccurate, and vague information has been provided and requested information remains outstanding
  • The Applicant’s approach is inconsistent with government guidance and the legal principles of consultation
  • While the Statutory Consultation began in January 2022, the highways modelling inputs were not agreed until March 2022 and the impacts and mitigation are still not agreed and may change. There has been premature and inadequate consultation in this regard
  • There is incomplete information on the need for and operation of the development as a rail freight interchange
  • The impacts of increased barrier down time at Narborough Level Crossing, including detrimental air quality for residents, have not been satisfactorily considered
  • The landscape impacts have not been adequately mitigated
Councillor Terry Richardson, leader of Blaby District Council, said: “For any consultation exercise to be effective, there must be genuine dialogue between the parties and meaningful consideration of the consultation responses by the applicant. “The information provided by the applicant also needs to set out the justification for the scheme and be capable of being fully understood by stakeholders and members of the public. While reviewing the consultation documents, we found essential evidence and information were simply not there or were presented before they were ready. “This is the case despite the Council’s frequent requests for extra information made in both writing and verbally during working groups and at other meetings between the Council and the applicant. “Our conclusion is that incomplete, inaccurate and vague information has been provided and information requested remains outstanding.” The Planning Inspectorate has until Monday 6 March to decide whether to accept the application. If the application is accepted, the Planning Inspectorate will begin assessing the developer’s plans. There will be a six-month-long examination phase, including hearings, towards the end of the year and a decision is expected by the middle of next year.

Nottingham eCommerce marketing agency hires viral star

Tess Egginton
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Nottingham eCommerce marketing agency hires viral star
Nottingham-based eCommerce marketing agency Contrast, founded by former professional athlete Elliott Davidson, has hired Mark Rofe as Head of Digital PR to launch a new Digital PR service. Mark Rofe, who most recently worked at Sheffield’s Rise at Seven agency, gained widespread media coverage in 2020 after purchasing a billboard to advertise himself for a date. He received more than 2,000 applications from potential suitors and appeared on the likes of ITV’s This Morning, The Late Night Show, and The Ellen DeGeneres Show. Mark leveraged his expertise to launch his own eCommerce brand, providing and delivering real Christmas trees to people’s homes. Under his guidance, the business secured coverage in hundreds of news outlets including Sky News, ITV, and The Guardian. Now, Mark aims to utilise his skills at Contrast to help other eCommerce businesses achieve similar media exposure. Mark said: “It’s a privilege to join the talented team at Contrast and play a role in introducing Digital PR as a new offering. I have long been impressed by Contrast’s unwavering commitment to delivering results for their clients. “Their reputation as a small yet mighty eCommerce agency precedes them, and I am eager to leverage my passion and expertise to help take their services to the next level. I am thrilled to embark on this exciting new chapter with such a dynamic and innovative company.” Elliott Davidson, founder and director, said: “With Mark’s background as an eCommerce owner and operator, this is a perfect match of DNA and knowledge. I’m excited about the future of Contrast for our current and future clients, the creative campaigns we will end up running with Mark at the helm of the department, and how we will grow.”

Purpose Media appoints second senior account manager

Tess Egginton
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Purpose Media appoints second senior account manager
Full service marketing agency Purpose Media has further strengthened their team following the appointment of Tania Garland as a senior account manager. Tania, who lives in Mansfield, joins Purpose Media from the print and advertising industry having previously worked as a project manager for a UK supermarket brand. She was responsible for all of their UK stores specialising in point of sale, front of house advertising and promotional materials. She also worked on large scale campaigns for seasonal events such as Christmas, Diwali and Easter. In her new role Tania will be advising on marketing strategy and acting as the account manager for a client portfolio that will include businesses in the tech, sporting, retail apparel and recruitment sectors. Tania said: “Whilst print and point of sale is an important part in the marketing mix I was eager to get more involved in digital marketing as this area of marketing is so much more trackable. As a company, Purpose Media is very client focused, forward thinking and innovative in the ways they ensure our client marketing strategies are focused, objectives are met and campaigns deliver an return on investment.”
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