Go-ahead given for more than 200 new modular homes at Nottingham’s Alliance Boots campus

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Go-ahead given for more than 200 new modular homes at Nottingham’s Alliance Boots campus
Plans for more than 200 new homes within the Alliance Boots campus in Nottingham, set to be part of the ‘residential quarter’ of the wider site redevelopment, have been approved.
The reserved matters submission from GraceMachin Planning & Property on behalf of Ilke Homes Land Limited, sought approval for 207 dwellings, consisting of 96 houses and 111 apartments.
The homes, off Thane Road, are to be delivered by way of modular, off-site construction, by Ilke Homes.
The reserved matters submission relates to a 17.6 hectare site which crosses the boundary between Nottingham City and Broxtowe Borough.
A corresponding ‘reserved matters’ application has been submitted to Broxtowe Borough Council for 397 dwellings within their administrative area. In total, 604 dwellings are proposed across the entire site.

Manufacturers report rise in output, but decline expected to resume next quarter

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Manufacturers report rise in output, but decline expected to resume next quarter
UK manufacturers reported a rise in output in the three months to November, the first increase since the three months to July 2022, according to the CBI’s latest Industrial Trends Survey. However, production is expected to decline in the next quarter. The survey found that while stocks remained broadly adequate, total order books and export order books were reported as below normal. Selling price inflation is expected to remain historically high in the next three months (though below the record high reached earlier this year). The survey, based on the responses of 230 manufacturing firms, found:
  • Manufacturing output volumes rose in the three months to November (balance of +18%, from -4% in the three months to October), the first increase since the three months to July 2022. However, output is expected to fall in the three months to February (-10%).
  • Output increased in 9 out of 17 sectors in the three months to November. The increase in output reported this quarter was largely driven by the food, drink & tobacco, motor vehicles and transport equipment, and chemicals sectors.
  • Total order books were reported as below “normal” in November, and to a similar extent to October (balance of -5% from -4%). Export orders were also seen as below normal, but to a lesser extent than last month (-7% from -14%). Nonetheless, both total and export order books remained above their long-run averages (-13% and -18% respectively).
  • Expectations for average selling price inflation for the next three months remained at a broadly similar level to last month (+47% from +46%), although this remains comfortably below the multi-decade highs seen earlier in the year (+80% in March). Expectations for selling price inflation remained well above the long-run average (+6%).
  • Stocks of finished goods were seen as broadly adequate in November, to a similar degree as in October (+5% from +7%).
Anna Leach, CBI deputy chief economist, said: “The rise in manufacturing output this month appears to be at least partly driven by improvements to supply chains, with several companies reporting they were able to fulfil orders as materials and components became more readily available. Total order books remained much weaker than earlier in the year, however, and output is expected to fall again in the quarter ahead. “Against a difficult economic backdrop, manufacturers welcomed aspects of last week’s Autumn Statement, notably business rates relief and commitments to R&D and infrastructure spending. “But little was said about two of the most pressing issues that are currently holding the sector back: the future of the business energy support scheme and access to skills. This leaves big question marks hanging over the competitiveness of UK manufacturing.”

Nearly a third of East Midlands employers have seen an increase in staff sickness

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Nearly a third of East Midlands employers have seen an increase in staff sickness

Almost one-third of employers in the East Midlands have seen an increase in staff sickness absence, according to a new survey.

Workplace expert, Acas, commissioned YouGov to ask employers in September if they had seen any changes to the number of employees being off sick compared to 12 months ago.

The poll found that for the East Midlands:

  • 31% of employers had seen an increase in sickness absence
  • 1% had seen a decrease
  • Nearly two-thirds (60%) said the number of staff taking sickness absence had stayed roughly the same
  • 8% didn’t know.

Acas East Midlands director Dwinder Virk said: “East Midlands businesses are seeing an increase in the number of employees absent through sickness, and they may be impacted by increases in flu or COVID cases, or the effects of long COVID.

“When employees are unwell, it is important that businesses have a clear absence policy to reassure them about their rights and to ensure the business stays on an even keel.

“Effective handling of sickness absences at work can also provide clarity for employers and employees, and help avoid potential disputes.”

Acas advises that employers should have an absence policy in place that is clear about what is expected from both employers and employees if staff need time off work.

An absence policy should include:

  • How to report absences and keep in touch. This includes who the employee should contact and when;
  • What support is available for staff during absences and when they return to work;
  • When the employee needs to get a fit note;
  • How much the employee will be paid and for how long; and
  • What to do if someone needs time off for reasons related to a disability.

Final unit snapped up at new industrial development

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Final unit snapped up at new industrial development

The final unit has been sold at Wymeswold Business Quarter, where 95 local jobs will be created when construction is completed on the site.

The unit has been sold to Fleet Auction Group.

Adjoining the existing Wymeswold Industrial Estate, Wymeswold Business Quarter, Prestwold is a new industrial development which will be completed in early 2023 to provide 20 purpose-built new build industrial units, ranging in size from 1,900 sq ft to 12,000 sq ft.

With all units now sold or let, over 95 local jobs have been created. This will benefit the local economy and help to reduce the commuting times of those who work at the business park – as most of the business owners and their employees live within a 5 mile radius. The developer, The Prince Group, has included a number of incentives to further reduce the environmental impact of the development, including a green travel plan, ride to work scheme and free bus passes.

The development has been built on land that is part of The Prestwold Estate, which is managed by Loughborough-based specialist land development and property consultancy Mather Jamie.

Acting as their strategic land adviser, Mather Jamie initiated the idea to create Wymeswold Business Quarter and acted as project manager to assist The Prestwold Estate and The Prince Group to obtain planning permission, commission construction and then promote the units for sale or lease.

The site forms part of the old Officer’s Mess from the WW2 Wymeswold Airfield. The developers have plans to name some of the buildings after some important figures that were stationed at the airfield during the War.

Geoff Prince, Managing Director from the Prince Group, said: “We have a long standing relationship with Mather Jamie and always value their advice and guidance which on this occasion has helped The Prince Group deliver and create something that will benefit businesses and create local employment.”

A second phase development at Wymeswold Business Quarter is now proposed which will create 21 units and 80-100 more local employment opportunities. Mather Jamie, along with consultants Pegasus Group, Golby & Luck and Gordon White Hood, are currently project managing the planning application for this second phase. If approved, construction on the next wave of units will begin in Q2 2023 and will be available to let/buy early in Q1 2024.

Hamish Byers, associate director, Mather Jamie, said: “The speed in which all units have been occupied shows the success of the development and that there is definitely a demand for industrial units within a rural community and when carefully planned these facilities can positively impact local communities and the environment.

“My clients, the Prestwold Estate, are committed to developing opportunities which benefit the local community and as long standing owners and employers in the local area, it was very important for them to deliver a scheme of high quality and maximising local opportunities.”

As part of the first and second phases of the development, the Estate are trying to minimise the environmental impact and provide additional benefits. Throughout 2022 the Estate has planted over 450 trees and have plans to develop and enhance the natural environment further over the coming years.

LLEP to recruit new Chief Executive

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LLEP to recruit new Chief Executive

A new Chief Executive is being recruited to lead Leicester and Leicestershire Enterprise Partnership (LLEP) as it continues to work with partners to drive sustainable economic growth.

The LLEP Board is recruiting an “influential strategic leader” to manage the LLEP, looking purposefully at both delivery of vital services and long-term sustainability. The successful candidate will also be tasked with shaping and reforming current activities while exploring new ways of generating future funding.

Directors decided at a recent Board meeting that it is an appropriate time to appoint to the role vacated by Mandip Rai earlier this year.

Leicester City Council, the LLEP’s accountable body, has now started a recruitment process in conjunction with co-chairs Anil Majithia and Andy Reed OBE.

Sue Tilley has been working under the interim title head of LLEP since Mr Rai left the organisation in March 2022. She has undertaken additional responsibilities relating to management of LLEP staff, support to the Board, and external promotion of the organisation with partners.

The interim role was formed in response to external uncertainty as integration of LEPs into local authorities was proposed as part of County Deal devolution.

Agreement between local partners and Government has yet to be reached in relation to devolution in Leicester and Leicestershire. Therefore, the LLEP Board has decided that a more permanent leadership solution is required.

Mr Majithia said: “We are grateful to Sue for accepting additional leadership responsibilities earlier this year and her work with directors and officers in recent months as we continue to deliver projects on the priorities of our Economic Growth Strategy.

“However, it’s clear that it could be some time yet before a clear picture emerges on local devolution, therefore a more permanent LLEP leadership solution is required.”

Don’t dwell on financial downturn says Beylmayne

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Don’t dwell on financial downturn says Beylmayne
Local independent financial planners, Belmayne, are reassuring investors there is no need to change their retirement plans because of current market volatility. The Dronfield-based firm is urging people not to concentrate on recent market news, but to review their retirement objectives and focus on making sure their plan is on target. Belmayne partner, Jon Stevens, said: “Investing is not about trying to enter or exit the markets at the right moment, it is the time spent in the markets that matters. If the headlines in your life haven’t changed, then neither should your investments.” The professional financial planning process enables investors to establish goals and build an achievable plan, taking into account variable levels of returns in good and bad years. Belmayne advocates evidence-based investing and gives clients access to a highly diversified, low-cost suite of solutions. Jon added: “Planning for retirement is a detailed process and there are many moving parts. We use cashflow forecasting tools to demonstrate how markets will vary and how we can protect your finances from this volatility. It is easy to get lost in the ‘noise’ surrounding the recent economic turbulence, but by focusing on long-term goals, we can ensure investments remain on track.”

Breedon on track to deliver record earnings for 2022

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Breedon on track to deliver record earnings for 2022
Breedon, the construction materials group, is on track to deliver record earnings in 2022, according to a new trading statement regarding its performance for the 10 months to 31 October 2022. Trading conditions during the second half have “remained supportive,” and the Leicestershire firm says this has enabled the company to fully recover rising input costs through robust pricing and disciplined cost management. In the four months to October 2022, the business delivered revenue growth of 16% compared to the same period in 2021. This resulted in revenue of £1.19bn in the year to date, some 14% ahead of the equivalent reported period last year. Rob Wood, CEO, said: “This time last year we reminded our investors of the agile and entrepreneurial DNA that sets Breedon apart. Our rapid response to changing market conditions, local focus, vertically-integrated business model and disciplined financial framework will again enable us to deliver record results.
“Visibility in the trading landscape has been poor for some years now, for a variety of reasons. Against this constantly changing backdrop, our team’s commitment and resolve have delivered quality products and great service to our customers, regardless of the economic or political landscape. For this, we thank them. Their focus and determination in turn continues to deliver for all our stakeholders.”

Eight storey apartment building approved in Nottingham

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Eight storey apartment building approved in Nottingham
Plans for a new apartment building in Nottingham have been approved.
The proposals for 1 Wallett Street come from Arkwright Property Co Ltd and would see existing buildings on the site demolished.
The site currently comprises a collection of industrial buildings and a large surface car park, which will be replaced with a building that steps down in height from 8 storeys on the frontage to Crocus Street to 4 storeys adjacent to Meadows Way.
141 apartments are planned, comprising 72 one bed and 69 two bed flats.
There would be 44 car parking spaces at the ground floor level along with bin and cycle storage facilities.

Chattertons Corporate Team celebrate completion of ten deals in October

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Chattertons Corporate Team celebrate completion of ten deals in October
October has been a busy month for the Corporate Team at Chattertons Solicitors which has completed ten deals with a further eight expected to complete by the end of 2022. Over the last year the firm has been involved in over 50 transactions ranging in value from £200,000 to £20m. Many of them have involved businesses located throughout the UK, which showcases the demand for advice from East Midlands based-advisers. The deals completed in October include the sale of London-based Rogers Removals to worldwide Cadogan Tate Group Limited, who are internationally recognised as a market leader, with removals, storage, freight and fine art logistics operations in London, Paris, the Côte d’Azur and the United States. Clients include royalty, presidents, government agencies, business magnates, blue chip corporations and celebrities. Other deals include the sale of Appliance Care to Pearson North Devon Limited, the sale of architectural firm WSW Consultancy Limited to Stiles Harold Williams Partnership LLP, both based near Brighton, the sale of Mustard Models to Whole Grain Limited, and Derby-based Diacom Networks to Grantcroft Limited. The tenth deal was the highly publicised acquisition of Leeds-based insurance broker Ravenhall Risk Solutions by Jenston Group. Adam Gilbert, head of Corporate, said: “Despite the uncertainty in the economy there seems to be a continuing appetite in the SME market to buy and sell businesses and our pipeline of future deals is still very strong.” He added: “The recent rises in interest rates is also not perturbing activity as many business owners remember when interest rates were much higher. Good businesses will always find buyers, largely irrespective of what the economy is doing as long as the buyer and the seller have a realistic approach to valuation. There is definitely a willingness to dismiss the speculation by doom mongers and those with a clear strategy and solid business plan are clearly pressing full steam ahead with their plans.”

New Derby centre for sustainable tech business

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New Derby centre for sustainable tech business
Sustainable technology business Circulayo has officially opened a new centre in Derby. The firm, which was founded last year by RDS Global, is on a mission to reduce the use of single-use plastic. Its new base at Perkin’s Yard is called the Flow Centre – named after Flow, a reusable packaging system devised by Circulayo. Flow uses technology to power a system where reusable cups are as easy and as cheap to use as single-use disposables. The system has already been used at numerous events across the city, including beer festivals and the recent Marketing Derby Food and Drink Awards. Councillor Baggy Shanker, from Derby City Council, cut the ribbon on Circulayo’s new premises. He said: “I was absolutely delighted to officially open the new line at Circulayo. It will be able to take 12 million cups a year from landfill if users across the city use this truly innovative and sustainable idea. “Circulayo’s mission is so important to us all and the future of our planet. We can all do more to be sustainable and we are privileged to have this concept here in Derby. I hope food and beverage businesses across Derby use this facility and collectively we all do our bit to eradicate single use plastics.” Chief Executive Andy Flinn said: “Our new sustainable technology venture is being rolled out into Derby venues and we couldn’t be prouder. We have proven that a zero-waste future for Derby is possible and it’s great to finally see our ideas and passion be at the forefront of people within our community.”

Local companies support the most vulnerable this winter

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Local companies support the most vulnerable this winter
A host of local companies have donated over £28,000 to help those hardest hit this winter during the cost-of-living crisis. Derby Homes set a target of raising enough money to buy 500 slow cookers, 500 air fryers and 500 electric blankets/throws. Their contractors and suppliers have responded generously with contributions already received from Buildbase, ARCUS Consulting, EEM, Nationwide Windows, Eurocell, Marley, Buxton Decorators, SPK Contractors, JAL Roofing, Vaillant Group, Bell Group and Westville Group. Derby City Council Local Area Coordinators are working closely with Community Action Derby and Food 4 Thought Alliance, who are organising delivery to residents across the city. One of the first residents to receive a heated blanket was hugely appreciative of the gesture. The elderly gentleman from Derby has a number of physical health conditions which limit his mobility. Due to the cost-of-living crisis he’s not been able to afford to put his heating on and has had to sit in the dark after running out of credit on several occasions. He wanted to remain anonymous but did say: “I’ve been struggling for weeks, the cost of living is having a huge impact on me every day. “I’m reluctant to ask for help but having spoken to Community Action Derby I realised I could get some help. They helped me apply for the Household Support Fund vouchers. “I’ve now been able to buy food from Sainsburys and top up my electricity. I can’t remember the last time I ate three meals in a day. “Having used the blanket for the first time last night I can’t tell you how it was. It actually made me feel human.” Derby Homes chair Mike Ainsley said: “It has been a difficult few years for us all, however 2022 remains an anxious time as the country begins to see the growing cost of living pressures. “As a collective group we are doing everything we can to help residents through the crisis. There’s still time for local firms to get involved too to help the cause. “Heating an individual by using the blankets can save people hundreds off their energy bill when compared to solely relying on central heating. We hope they can make a real difference. “Likewise, alternative cooking appliances such as slow cookers and air-fryers can be a cheaper way of heating food than traditional electric or gas ovens, especially for smaller meals. “The amount of energy home appliances use varies massively. Using a slow cooker, for example, for eight hours costs around 44p (1.30kWh), which is a big reduction compared to when using an electric oven (which uses around 3.04kWh costing £1.03). “Meanwhile it costs 3.5pence per hour for a heated throw on full power compared to 70pence per hour for a 2kw electric fan heater. “The items will be handed out to the most vulnerable, to the people who will benefit from them most. This includes elderly people, or those with specific medical conditions which make them immobile, very unwell, or feel cold.” Councillor Roy Webb, cabinet Member for Adults, Health and Housing, said: “The cost-of-living crisis is affecting everyone, and the rollout of these appliances will go some way to reducing the financial pressure on our most vulnerable residents. “A full raft of cost-of-living support is available to help people struggling with the rising cost of energy, food and bills, which can be found at https://www.communityactionderby.org.uk/crisis-support/help-with-the-cost-of-living.”

Dr. Martens CEO “pleased” with half year results

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Dr. Martens CEO “pleased” with half year results
The CEO of iconic British brand Dr. Martens is “pleased to report another strong set of results” for the first half of its financial year in which the business opened 21 new stores. According to interim results for the six months to 30 September 2022, revenue has risen while profits have slipped. During the period, when the consumer environment weakened, revenue grew to £418.6m at the Northamptonshire-headquartered firm, up from £369.9m in the first half of last year. Profit before tax meanwhile slipped to £57.9m from £61.3m. The company noted it has made a proactive decision to continue with targeted investment for the future rather than reducing investment for short-term profit. Kenny Wilson, Chief Executive Officer, said: “I am pleased to report another strong set of results covering the first half of our financial year. Underlying revenue growth was 18% and the EBITDA margin was in line with our guidance. I’d like to thank all Dr. Martens people for their hard work and custodianship over the last six months in helping to deliver these results.

“Our growth is built on the successful execution of our DOCS strategy, led by the DTC-first approach, with DTC revenue up 21%. At the heart of our continued success is the strength of our brand, highlighted by underlying pairs growth and continually improving brand metrics. We have further pricing headroom for AW23 so we will offset cost inflation once again.

“Although there are economic challenges ahead, we are well positioned for future growth. We will continue to drive growth investment to deliver the DOCS strategy, mainly in new stores, marketing, people, technology and inventory. Reflecting our confidence in the future, our balanced global revenues and our strong balance sheet, the board has decided to increase the interim dividend by 28% to 1.56p per share.”

One in four small firms plan to close, downsize, or restructure if energy bills relief ends in April next year

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One in four small firms plan to close, downsize, or restructure if energy bills relief ends in April next year
Small firms’ survival during the ongoing energy price crisis will depend on continued government support through Energy Bill Relief Scheme (EBRS) beyond March 2023, according to a new Federation of Small Businesses (FSB) energy survey.The survey, which measured the impact of the energy price crisis on small businesses, shows small firms await with both hope and anxiety for clarity on whether they will still be eligible for support amid the on-going government review of the six-month scheme, which is due to end on April 1, 2023. The findings have been submitted to the Department for Business, Energy & Industrial Strategy (BEIS).A quarter of small firms (24%) plan to close, downsize, or radically change their business model if the government reduces energy support post-March next year. This rises to 42% of firms in the accommodation and food sector, followed by the wholesale and retail (34%), and manufacturing sectors (29%).More than four in ten small firms (44%) are considering raising prices to cope with soaring bills when the current EBRS is due to end, and a third (30%) expect to cancel or scale down planned investments.One in five (18%) have said they would need to keep prices the same, even though their energy bills are increasing, because customers simply cannot afford further increases. A majority of 63% say energy costs have increased this year compared to last year. Some 44% report a double, triple or even higher increase in their energy bills, and nearly one in five (19%) say their bills had tripled or higher. In response to the eye-watering bills, nearly half of small firms (46%) have already raised prices although it has been impossible for them to pass on full costs to consumers tightening their belts amid the cost of living rises. In light of the findings, FSB suggests the government should

·    Continue support under the current EBRS to avoid a cliff edge on April 1, 2023;

·    Consider the size, not just sector or geography, of firms when determining which businesses are vulnerable, and therefore entitled for further support;

·    Maximise planning certainty over the long-term so that small businesses can plan ahead; and

·    Help small businesses to invest in energy efficiency, through incentives like voucher schemes

FSB development manager, Natalie Gasson-McKinley, said: “Our research indicates that small firms are being held back from investment and are at the brink of collapse because of sky-rocketing energy costs. It’d be a real shame and great loss to our economy if those who managed to get through the pandemic and this tough winter with government support end up closing their businesses because relief ends too sharply in April. “Latest OECD forecasts suggest the UK economy will suffer the biggest hit from energy crisis among G7 nations. But the tides can be turned if the government extends the period of energy support to struggling small businesses after the EBRS ends in April next year. “It’s important that the government provide certainty to small firms for the long-term as they can’t plan on a six-month horizon. “Think of the engineering business in Hampshire which 40 local families are dependent on, and the independent launderette that has been serving the community for years. To allow well-run businesses to go under would be a false economy as we enter a recession. “Business size must be taken into account as a relevant factor in the government review of the EBRS, given the stark impact on small firms which have typically lower margins and are least able to deal with the rising costs. It can’t be a purely sector-based decision, otherwise it’ll lead to deadweight and unfairness.”

Third annual survey highlights challenges facing SMEs

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Third annual survey highlights challenges facing SMEs
Businesses in the UK are being urged to share the challenges they expect to face over the next 12 months in the third annual SME Business Survey. The study, originally launched by Northants human resources experts HR Solutions in the midst of the pandemic in 2020, is live now for 2022 and is open to all small and medium sized enterprises and focuses on key issues such as the impact of rising costs, and employee retention. This is the third year that HR Solutions have run the survey, which they use to gain a deeper understanding of the year ahead and discover how SMEs plan to navigate the changing business climate. Chief Executive of HR Solutions, Greg Guilford, said: “The past three years that we have carried out our survey, have arguably been three of the most challenging years for SMEs for some time. “Last year’s survey found that SMEs were keen to manage their costs more effectively whilst also highlighting that recruitment was set to be a serious challenge. The survey allows us to do a ‘stock take’ on key trends for SMEs, and reflect on how the market is changing. “It also gives us the opportunity to support those enterprises that really need the extra help. In response to the challenges identified in the 2021/22 survey, we worked with a number of SME partners to deliver further guidance and support in key areas including business finance, employee retention and recruitment using webinars, seminars and detailed support packages.” Last year’s findings showed many SMEs were struggling with employee retention so HR Solutions teamed up with Vestd to discuss The Great Resignation and whether share and share option schemes could be the answer. Another webinar showed key ways to secure top performing employees within a challenging recruitment market. The 2021 SME Business Survey results also showed that cash flow within businesses is more important than ever, so HR Solutions partnered with Nordens accountants to look at the importance of cash flow and forecasting. Greg added: “The more people that take part in the survey, the clearer the picture is for us of what challenges need addressing and what support SMEs need right now. The work we do provides a wealth of material to enable SMEs to thrive and succeed, despite those challenges. “We are hoping to get a record number of participants this year. The survey is available online now and is quick and easy to complete. Take a look and be part of something that benefits our business community.” To take part in the 2022 SME Survey visit https://www.hrsolutions-uk.com/sme-business-survey before the end of the year.

Gateley hails “strong” six months

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Gateley hails “strong” six months

The board of Gateley, the legal and professional services group, is “pleased with the strong performance” of the group in the six months ended 31 October 2022.

According to a trading update ahead of Gateley’s half year results, revenue has grown by 22% and is expected to be not less than £76 million. 

Underlying adjusted profit before tax meanwhile has grown by 11% and is expected to be not less than £9.4 million for the period.

Rod Waldie, Chief Executive Officer of Gateley, said: “In a period that included previously announced investment to strengthen our operating model and some predicted and appropriate post-pandemic increases in operating costs, our resilient business model, enhanced by an increasing range of complementary services, and our embedded ‘one-team’ culture, remain the driving forces behind another strong financial performance by the group. 

“On behalf of the board, I would like to thank our clients for their support and our dedicated people for their ongoing hard work, commitment and can-do attitude. 

“We are excited by the wide range of opportunities that are presenting themselves to the group and look forward to continuing to grow the business, both organically and via acquisition, in line with our stated strategy.”

Leicester reviews platform acquired by US firm

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Leicester reviews platform acquired by US firm
AppHub, an ecommerce enablement platform, has acquired Leicester-based REVIEWS.io, the reviews platform founded in 2012 by Callum McKeefery and Nicole Albano. Fueled by a $60 million growth investment from Silversmith Capital Partners, the deal marks AppHub’s eighth and largest acquisition to date. As part of the acquisition, McKeefery will join the AppHub Board. REVIEWS.io was founded as a platform for collecting and publishing genuine reviews to build trust among consumers and merchants. REVIEWS.io has since evolved to leverage first-party data to help positively influence purchase behavior. The business has 8,000 customers, including some of the most well known brands in ecommerce, such as Vuori, Pura Vida and Boxraw. AppHub believes there are significant opportunities to accelerate REVIEWS.io’s growth by leveraging AppHub’s broad customer base, multi-product offering, and value-add services. “The product suite offered by REVIEWS.io fully supports the AppHub mission to build software that enables ecommerce success,” said Arjun Batra, co-founder and co-CEO of AppHub. “Our combined platform addresses a range of pain points for ecommerce businesses, including marketing, conversion, logistics, and now reviews, making it well positioned to serve both SMB and enterprise customers.” “Ecommerce has become incredibly crowded, forcing brands to compete more aggressively than ever for customer attention,” said McKeefery. “When we started REVIEWS.io 10 years ago, we wanted to create a product that would allow brands to build trust with their customers by enabling direct, useful feedback. AppHub is a great partner for us because of their broad ecommerce expertise and customer footprint, which will enable us to further accelerate growth.” “In addition to adding a great product, the acquisition of REVIEWS.io is transformational for us because it doubles our headcount to ~100 employees and expands our footprint to better serve our growing global customer base,” said Kris Eng, co-founder and co-CEO of AppHub.

New life for Grimsby building

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New life for Grimsby building
A vital step in the transformation of Grimsby’s St James’ Square has been completed, with local company the E-Factor purchasing St James’ House. The former office building has been bought by the E-Factor Group, which has plans to bring the building back to life using a £1.5m slice of Towns Fund money along with significant private investment. The move provides a major boost for the Square and will pave the way for the building to be completely renovated and transformed into a business hub exclusively for local businesses. Mark Webb, Managing Director of E-Factor, said: “We’re absolutely delighted that we can now plough on with our plans to develop this building and provide quality business accommodation for a variety of local businesses and entrepreneurs right in the town centre. “There will also be space for business events and small conferences, all aimed at supporting local business people. This is a significant investment for our company, but we are determined to continue to be part of the positive story of growth in this area. “We recognise that this building has been empty for some time and with our investment, supported by the Towns Fund, we are confident we can bring it back to life. “We are an independent limited company, but every bit of our profits are reinvested in supporting the huge contribution local business owners and entrepreneurs make to this town. “E-Factor will once again be providing wrap around business support, easy in easy out terms and all the guidance we can give to help create and grow successful local businesses. The more people who do business in the town centre, the better it will be for shops and restaurants also located there.” North East Lincolnshire Council’s Cabinet approved a business case to help renovate the building last year with the use of Town Deal money. Whilst not putting any council cash into the scheme, authority approval was needed to enable the release of Government monies. North East Lincolnshire Council leader, Cllr Philip Jackson, said: “The success of the Wilkin Chapman building on Cartergate and the redevelopment of St James’ Square, a key heritage asset in the town, meant that the next step was to deal with St James’ House in a way that can increase footfall in the town centre and provide benefit to other local businesses. “I’m delighted E-Factor has taken this building on to bring a new dimension to St James’ Square, a fantastic heritage asset in our town centre. We are extremely pleased to support this scheme.” Confirmation of the building’s new future has delighted those who have worked hard in the background to progress plans. This includes the Church’s representative body, the PCC (the Parochial Church Council) – the former owners of the building. Fr Chris Hewitt, Vicar of Grimsby Minster and Chairman of the PCC, said: “St James’ House was built in the early 1970s and for many years provided offices and meeting space in the town centre for a variety of organisations including the council, the BBC and it also provided accommodation for the Parish office. “More recently the building became surplus to requirements and over the last few years a number of alternative options were investigated, which unfortunately did not proceed. We took the decision to appoint Scotts Property to dispose of the building and they received a number of expressions of interest. “We carefully considered these, not only from a financial perspective, but also with regard to the presence of Grimsby Minster and our social investment in St James’ Square and the surrounding area. The proposal from E-Factor provided the best fit and we are delighted to have sold the property to them. We look forward to seeing it play an important role in the future of St James’ Square and the town centre.” Lawrence Brown, Managing Partner at property agents Scotts, explained: “We’ve been working with the PCC and the Minster, together with other agencies, for several years to try to bring forward various alternative uses for the building. We’ve considered residential conversions, offices, medical related uses, art galleries and cultural space together with retail and restaurant units. “We’ve been so close on several occasions – most recently immediately prior to the lockdown at the start of the pandemic, but, as everyone knows, this changed everything.  All of this work had taken place ‘behind the scenes’ and when we were instructed, by the PCC, to openly market the property we received lots of interest from a range of different people. “After careful consideration the offer from E-Factor met the objectives of the PCC most closely and we can now look forward to seeing a refurbished building in the heart of the town centre.” E-Factor Group Ltd (E-Factor), have been both developing and managing a portfolio of commercial properties around North East Lincolnshire for more than 12 years.

Motorpoint sees record first half revenues while pre-tax profit slips with increased investment

Tess Egginton
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Motorpoint sees record first half revenues while pre-tax profit slips with increased investment
Motorpoint Group, the Derby-based vehicle retailer, has reported record first half revenues and a drop in pre-tax profit in unaudited interim results for the six months ended 30 September 2022 (H1 FY23). Revenue increased to a record £786.7m, up 30% from £605.2m in the same period of last year, helped by market share growth, vehicle mix and price inflation. It marks progress as the company looks to grow revenues to £2bn. Profit before tax meanwhile slipped from £13.5m to £3m, which the firm said reflects increased investment relating to delivery of strategic objectives and to maintain a market leading price position, against record margins experienced in H1 FY22. Mark Carpenter, Chief Executive Officer of Motorpoint Group PLC, said: “I am pleased with the progress the group has made during the period, delivering record first half revenues, whilst executing on our investment strategy for growth despite increasingly difficult macroeconomic conditions. “Providing our customers with the best omnichannel car purchasing experience is integral to what we do, and we believe this can be achieved through investment in both physical branches and technology. The ongoing success of our investment during the period is reflected in our increased market share of the 0-4 year old market and improved efficiencies across the business. “We believe that Motorpoint is the best operator in the UK’s used car market. It has proven its ability to grow profitably over its 25 year history and right now there is a significant opportunity for the business to grow its market share whilst remaining profitable. “As a result, in line with previous guidance, profitability levels will be lower as we continue to invest in our strategic agenda. The investments made now will enable Motorpoint to emerge from the current macro environment in a stronger position as we seek to deliver sustained shareholder value.”

Alpha Power Cleaners expand with new warehouse and workshop in Loughborough

Tess Egginton
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Alpha Power Cleaners expand with new warehouse and workshop in Loughborough
East Midlands-based commercial cleaning equipment specialist Alpha Power Cleaners has announced major expansion plans, with the build of a new warehouse and workshop for their current Loughborough site. The new warehouse will be critical in facilitating the company’s growth plans over the next few years. Alpha Power Cleaners sell, hire, repair and service commercial cleaning machines for customers across the UK, with a hire fleet of equipment from leading brands such as Kärcher, Tennant and Mac International. The details of Alpha Power Cleaners’ build plans Alpha Power Cleaners has commenced construction of a new, significantly larger warehouse to replace their current warehouse and offices. Upon completion, their new warehouse will include a new workshop for repairs and servicing, and new office space to accommodate the company’s growing team. This investment will provide Alpha Power Cleaners with more space for their hire fleet of machines, and an updated and improved repairs and servicing workshop. This will not only increase efficiency of repairs and servicing, but it will also further reduce wait times, by making it easier and faster for the team to deliver commercial cleaning equipment to their customers. As the company doesn’t currently have another site to work at, it’s all hands on deck! The entire team is working hard to provide the same high level of service, whilst the new warehouse and offices are being built. The project is making good progress, with the structure and flooring of the warehouse already complete. Work is now starting on the interior of the site, with plans to commence construction of the exterior later this year. The site is due to be completed by Q3/Q4 of 2023. Investing in the next phase of expansion The new development will unlock major benefits, both for the team at Alpha Power Cleaners, and their customers. Once expansion has been completed, Alpha Power Cleaners will be continuing to increase their hire fleet, giving them the capacity to reach more customers. Then, the dedicated, improved workshop will allow the company to operate more efficiently, and decrease the wait times for machine repairs and servicing. With new bespoke repair bays, complete with scissor lifts for each service technician, the workshop team will be able to service larger industrial and commercial machines with greater ease and efficiency. This development will give Alpha Power Cleaners a state of the art workshop, market leading in their field as the workshops have been specifically designed for the maintenance of all manner of industrial and commercial cleaning equipment.
This is an aerial shot of the new warehouse floor being laid, showing 5 of 7 new repair bays.
This will lay the foundation for the ongoing future growth of Alpha Power Cleaners, as its customer base expands and its contract numbers continue to increase at the same pace. Alongside this, across all aspects of the development, Alpha Power Cleaners is committed to supporting the local community. “We are immensely proud of the strong relationships that we forge with the local community, and this new development will continue that people-focused approach,” commented Rob Freeman, Operations Director at Alpha Power Cleaners. “We are committed to serving the community of Loughborough. Alongside the new job opportunities that will be available when the development is complete, including new Office Admin and Service Technician roles – we are also sponsors of the local ‘Barrow Town Harriers Under 11s Football Club’ and ‘Loughborough Rugby Football Club Under 14s’. For us, this is a key part of our company ethos and what we stand for.” If you are interested in finding more about the new office admin and service technical roles, send across your details to Alpha Power Cleaners. These new roles are becoming available now so please email info@alphapower.co.uk for more information. About Alpha Power Cleaners Alpha Power Cleaners is a commercial cleaning equipment specialist, offering a wide range of services, including the sales, hire, maintenance and repairs of a huge variety of commercial cleaning solutions from all leading manufacturers. The team has over 80 years of combined experience in the industry, and have established a long-standing reputation for quality, efficiency, affordability and reliability. Alpha Power Cleaners serve a wide area across the UK including the Midlands, the South, Loughborough, Derby, Nottingham, Milton Keynes, Luton and London. If you are looking to hire a commercial cleaning machine, or need advice on what machine best suits your needs, contact the team today.

LLEP invests £90,000 in extending project to grow digital skills in Leicester and Leicestershire

Tess Egginton
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LLEP invests £90,000 in extending project to grow digital skills in Leicester and Leicestershire

Leicester and Leicestershire Enterprise Partnership (LLEP) and De Montfort University Leicester (DMU) will collaborate in extending a project to improve digital skills across Leicester and Leicestershire.

DMU has been commissioned to lead the LLEP’s Digital Skills Partnership (DSP) in delivery of the latest phase of its Digital Leicestershire project.

The University will utilise its experience to support the project vision of bringing people and organisations together to increase digital skills.

Digital Leicestershire has three areas of focus: 

  • Upskilling digital skills of local small businesses

  • Increasing digital inclusion

  • Developing educational pathways.

The £90,000 project is the second phase of an original LLEP project which commenced during the pandemic to increase online inclusion as residents were locked down.

Many services moved online as a consequence of the pandemic, yet ONS data showed that more than 11% of the East Midlands population were non-internet users and 9% had no digital skills at all.

The new-look DSP will serve as a single portal for small businesses to access digital expertise and technical training. It will also signpost courses varying levels and lengths, as well as working to facilitate inclusion through device, skills and connectivity.

It comes after the first phase of Digital Leicestershire saw the LLEP Skills Advisory Panel (SAP) allocate £300,000 towards addressing Digital Poverty in February 2021 as part of the local Covid recovery response. 

Local partners and voluntary groups were consulted about how the money should be used, with skills, connectivity, and availability of devices identified as areas of particular need.

Seven projects were funded – providing recycled devices, laptop lending, and digital buddy schemes – with the aim of supporting more than 1,200 disadvantaged people.

DMU has now been commissioned to take forward a second phase, using repurposed Growing Places Fund (GPF) money to deliver further inclusion activities including:

  • Getting more community organisations accessing free data

  • Supporting equipment recycling and lending schemes

  • Working with partners to access hard-to-reach groups

  • Engaging more businesses through Corporate Social Responsibility plans

  • Increasing use of online learning resources

  • Seeking additional funding for a digital skills strategy for schools.

Activities under the two-year project will continue to be conducted under the Digital Leicestershire brand.

Andy Reed OBE, LLEP co-chair, said: “Inclusion is a core pillar of our regional economic growth strategy and the speed of the move to digital during the pandemic left some in our communities behind.

“Addressing that gap will help to grow our region; the Good Things Foundation has estimated that every £1 invested in digital inclusion could see a return of £9.47 for the economy.”

Research for Phase 2 showed that more than 20,000 roles requiring specialist IT skills were advertised in Leicestershire over a 12-month period. By developing local skills, the project can help to provide a workforce needed by employers.

Helen Donnellan, PVC Regional Business and Innovation, DMU, said: “Digital inclusion is a real issue in Leicester and DMU has been involved in support work for many years with the city’s communities.

“We know that employers struggle to find people with digital skills and the knock-on effect this has on their ability to grow and thrive.

“This valuable work will help address this, helping people not only to gain sought-after skills but to get them into jobs.” 

The DSP engages with more than 70 local individuals across the groups, with direction and thought leadership provided by LLEP digital skills ambassador Amit Sinha.

Amit, also chief technology officer for SME and Scale at Microsoft, said: “Digital skills are vital for the future economy and the LLEP partnership with DMU will provide people in our region with not only the basic skills needed for everyday life but also the technical skills required by the employers and industries of tomorrow.”

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