Plans submitted for 136-hectare sustainable urban extension transforming Skegness
The future transformation of Skegness has moved a crucial step closer as plans are submitted to deliver a 136-hectare sustainable urban extension creating hundreds of homes, much-needed jobs for the local community – and an exciting new future for the town’s generations to come.
The planned Skegness Gateway development to the west of the town will provide more than 20 hectares of combined retail, business and industrial space. It also will provide 1,000 new homes – including specialist housing, hundreds of jobs, much-needed open space and recreational amenities and a college and learning campus with space for business startups.
East Lindsey District Council will soon consult on a draft Local Development Order (LDO) allowing the opportunity for the public and other stakeholders to comment on the proposals.
The Skegness Gateway, on land principally owned by local family business Croftmarsh, with additional areas owned by the Scarbrough family, is set to breathe new life into an area of the Lincolnshire coast that drastically needs change in order to secure its future, boosting the local economy and providing the education and jobs for local people that will encourage them to stay in the area.
Croftmarsh says that the project is vital for the future-proofing of Skegness, helping it to take its rightful place in the East Midlands as a place of opportunity and ambition. The scheme will also boost social value for local people – both existing and new residents.
Sue Bowser, of Croftmarsh, said: “We are pleased to support the council in its vision to bring these ambitious plans to reality. This LDO submission is a really significant step. Our family has lived and worked in Skegness for many generations, so it’s a great source of pride that we can support a development that will help secure the town’s future by creating thousands of jobs and homes for both existing local residents and attract a new generation of people to the area.
“We are working closely with East Lindsey District Council and other partners to bring forward a scheme that will work alongside the regeneration being enabled by the Towns Fund.”
Once complete, the sustainable urban extension will help establish the town as a hub for investment, opportunity and ambition, as well as creating a new sustainable community that blends high-quality new homes with plentiful green space.
Sue added: “We know that Skegness is a town that needs economic transformation. The mechanism for that is through urban regeneration and expansion of skills, training and education – all secured by investment and infrastructure and digital connectivity.
“Ours is a town in real need. There isn’t enough money in the town to pay for this all year round and the secret to this is to have more people living here. We need to create jobs. We need to build infrastructure and provide the significant benefits that government is seeking in places such as Skegness.
“We want to enable the delivery of hundreds of new homes not just for the people who live in the local area – but for those people we want to attract to come and live and work in Skegness. This scheme will transform the area, putting it on the map and making the town famous not just for its beaches, but for its enterprise.”
The aspirations for the Skegness Gateway have been showcased to the local public and stakeholders through engagement events and were well received as a catalyst for economic growth and wider regeneration.
Matt Warman, MP for Boston and Skegness, said: “This local sustainable development includes a state of the art learning campus funded through the Skegness Town Deal, providing new training opportunities for the coast. Importantly, training including digital skills, motor vehicle, construction and engineering, will allow people to gain the skills and knowledge they need to get the jobs they want.
“Removing barriers to learning is a key focus for the Towns Fund and I’m delighted that this funding from Government will be helping to deliver these local opportunities.”
The Sanderson family – which owns the majority of the land set for development – has lived and worked in the Skegness area for seven generations and has long been passionate about securing the town’s future by providing jobs, skills and opportunities.
Neil Sanderson, also of Croftmarsh and Sue’s brother, said: “Skegness Gateway really is close to our hearts and homes, and making sure it becomes the reality that puts our town firmly on the map is our key aim. This is a town that we have grown up in and really understand what a difference the scheme and its benefits will make to local people.
“The LDO submission marks a key point in the journey to making these plans a reality for the whole of Skegness and the wider area to benefit from. We look forward to continuing our support to East Lindsey District Council throughout the process – and to making its vision a reality.”
Reserved Matters approval for 75 new homes in Calow
Woodall Homes has gained Reserved Matters approval for a residential development of 75 dwellings in Calow.
Further to Outline planning permission having been granted in December 2021, the brand-new development located on Top Road has now received Reserved Matters approval.
The new site will feature a mix of one, two, three and four-bedroom properties, including bungalows. The development will be accessed from Oaks Farm Lane, which is to be upgraded and will include a 2m wide footpath.
This development includes comprehensive landscaping proposals, providing for broad undeveloped areas of green infrastructure, wildlife-friendly habitats, native planting and additional hedgerows, plus the retention of existing woodland, which is to be protected. The public right of way through the development will also be maintained, providing recreational access to the countryside for the community.
Darren Abbott, planning director at Woodall Homes, said: “We can’t wait to get started on the new development, with work expected to begin in early 2023.
“There is already a fantastic community growing within Calow, with our nearby Churchfields progressing well. We love working within the area and I know the entire team are looking forward to the beginning of this next project.”
Woodall Homes currently have five developments under construction across Derbyshire and Nottinghamshire.
Bioscience space proposed for The Island Quarter
Approximately 190,000 square feet of bioscience space is being proposed for Nottingham’s Island Quarter development.
Developer, Conygar has revealed that it is currently finalising a detailed planning application, and is progressing discussions with a potential funding partner, for the space.
It expects to submit the application in the coming weeks.
The building will include both laboratory and office space, as well as conference facilities and car parking and be located adjacent to an existing bioscience hub.
Conygar added: “We continue to progress the detailed designs for subsequent phases and are in advanced discussions with potential investors in connection with further commercial and residential developments and would hope to make announcements in that respect over the coming months.”
Record revenues expected at Van Elle following strong first half
Strong trading momentum has been reported through the first half of the year at Van Elle, the ground engineering contractor, according to a trading update for the six months ended 31 October 2022.
The company says that all divisions have operated at high activity levels, with significantly increased revenues delivered in Housing and General Piling. As a result, the group expects to report record revenues for the period of approximately £81m, representing an increase of 35% on the prior year comparative of £60.1m.
Profit before tax is expected to exceed £3m for the period, up from £1.9m.
Van Elle meanwhile has indicated that although there has been some easing in supply chain disruption during the period, inflation, and in particular wage, fuel and materials costs have continued to impact the group.
Looking ahead, the firm said: “Whilst recognising the current economic uncertainty in the UK, strong activity levels are expected to be sustained through the second half of the year, despite the winter months which traditionally deliver lower activity levels due to weather disruptions.
“The Board is pleased with the progress made in the first half of the year and anticipates trading for the full year to be slightly ahead of market expectations.”
“Robust” trading and new CEO for Forterra
Forterra has revealed that Neil Ash will become Chief Executive Officer designate on 3 April 2023, following the announcement that Stephen Harrison will be stepping down as CEO during the first half of 2023.
Neil has almost three decades’ experience in the building materials sector and an impressive track record of improving performance and delivering growth. Currently at Etex, the Belgian lightweight building materials manufacturer, he leads the Building Performance division which is a €2 billion revenue business. During his time at Etex Neil oversaw major capex projects, significant acquisitions, and developed its sales approach which delivered strong top line growth.
His experience includes 15 years at Lafarge, where he undertook many roles, including the role of Vice President International Business Development and Sales and Commercial Director UK & Ireland of Lafarge Plasterboard.
Justin Atkinson, chairman, said: “We are very pleased to appoint Neil as the next CEO. His business leadership and extensive building materials sector knowledge will be invaluable to Forterra in the next stages of our development and the Board looks forward to working with him.
“The Board and I are grateful to Stephen Harrison for the significant contribution he has made to the business during his tenure as CEO. We wish him all the best for the future after he leaves Forterra in the second quarter of 2023.”
The news comes as Forterra provides an update for the ten-month period ended 31 October 2022, in which trading “has remained robust” with YTD sales volumes in line with last year. The firm says this reflects ongoing production capacity constraints and record low inventory levels. Group revenue in the period was 23% ahead of the prior year, driven by selling price increases. Full year results are expected to be in line with management’s expectations.Stephen Harrison, CEO, said: “Trading remains robust although we are watchful of the impact of the recent instability in financial markets and the reported negative impact this is currently having on the housing market.
“The group enters this uncertain time in a position of strength having a strong balance sheet with low levels of debt and high levels of cash generation. Inventories remain at record low levels and despite the current uncertainties we remain well-placed to mitigate the effects of a softening of demand by substituting imported bricks with domestically manufactured product.”
Eden PR adds new Account Manager to growing team
Eden Public Relations is pleased to welcome Conor Davies as its newest Account Manager, following a roll of new client wins in Q3 and Q4.
Leading Midlands-based public relations and marketing communications agency Eden PR has strengthened its account management team with the appointment of Conor Davies.
Joining the team with a variety of industry experience, Conor brings a range of valuable skills to the Eden team, including strong journalistic and web copywriting, event management and client relations as well as social media content strategy. He will be a core part of the agency’s growing account management team, helping to oversee work for a variety of Eden’s clients, as well as management of the junior members of the team.
Conor brings six years of agency and in-house communications experience to the team. He has worked across a range of B2B and B2C sectors, including charity, sport, IT and the healthcare sector among others. Within these roles, he’s helped to implement press campaigns for events across the UK, Ireland and the USA, including running press days and carrying out interviews for features, press releases and social media content.
Conor said: “I am delighted to be joining the amazing team at Eden PR and am excited to start working with my clients. It’s a very busy and fast-paced time to be joining Eden, with lots going on and new client wins. 2023 is looking like a big year for us!
“The team at Eden have been incredibly welcoming so far, and already have helped me to feel at home. Everyone is incredibly supportive of each other and I’m looking forward to continuing my own self-development, as well as overseeing the growth of our client-base and fantastic junior staff at our Lace Market office.”
Joint Managing Director at Eden PR, Kathryn Greenwood, said: “It’s been great to add Conor to our growing team at Eden. He will help oversee the account management for some of our biggest accounts and we are excited to see the ideas he will bring to the table.”
East Midlands Chamber urges region’s businesses to get involved with devolution consultation
East Midlands Chamber is urging businesses in Derbyshire and Nottinghamshire to get their voices heard by taking part in a consultation over devolution plans.
The four upper-tier local authorities in Derbyshire and Nottinghamshire last week launched a public consultation into proposals to establish an East Midlands County Combined Authority.
Set to be formed in 2024, the overarching authority would give the two counties more decision-making powers on areas such as transport, adult skills training, and the environment, as well as bring £1.14bn in extra funding over a 30-year period.
The consultation, running from 14 November until 9 January, is open to residents, businesses, community and voluntary groups, and other organisations in the region.
East Midlands Chamber chief executive Scott Knowles said: “The devolution deal for Derbyshire and Nottinghamshire is a huge opportunity by providing a political structure that removes obstacles to decision-making, enhances the ability to attract investment and ultimately creates an environment conducive to business growth.
“It will help these counties to take strides forward in productivity and innovation, enabling firms to drive the economic growth that creates jobs and wealth locally.
“Devolution also gives businesses a greater say over what happens in their area as they will be represented within the proposed governance structure.
“The Chamber is supporting these plans to create a mayoral county combined authority, but it’s important the full business community’s views are heard so we would urge organisations of all shapes and sizes to get involved with the consultation.”
The leaders of Derbyshire County Council, Nottinghamshire County Council, Derby City Council and Nottingham City Council signed up to work on a devolution deal on 30 August this year at the Rolls-Royce factory in Derby, following an announcement from the Government that a package of new powers and funding worth £1.14bn were available for the area.
Since then, the councils have been working on agreeing a more detailed proposal for consultation, which includes more information about how devolution would work in the two counties. The public consultation, which features a survey, represents the next step in the process, allowing everyone the chance to give their views on proposals.
To take part in the consultation, visit www.eastmidlandsdevolution.co.uk
Honorary professorship for Leicestershire business leader
An honorary professorship has been bestowed by De Montfort University upon a Leicestershire philanthropist and business leader.
Dr Nik Kotecha OBE DL, has been appointed Professor of Entrepreneurship, Innovation & Philanthropy for the Faculty of Health & Life Sciences, some 35 years after he completed his PhD in Medicinal Chemistry.
Since leaving education, Dr Kotecha has become a well-known entrepreneur, having founded Loughborough-based Morningside Pharmaceuticals in 1991, which he divested of in October this year. In 2017 he established his own charitable foundation, the Randal Charitable Foundation, which has an aspiration to directly save 1 million lives in the UK and globally.
Dr Kotecha, who is also a pro chancellor at DMU, said: “I was carefully considering a career in academia after university, and with 30 years in business instead, I never thought I would be receiving the title of ‘professor’.
“To now be honoured with this title is special. DMU teaches many students who are in the situation I was in 40 years ago. Many are the first generation of their family to go to university, from disadvantaged families and diverse ethnic cultures.
“When I meet their families and see these young people walk by me onto the stage at graduations, in my role as pro chancellor, I am incredibly proud that DMU has provided these excellent graduates with the opportunities they deserve.”
For Dr Kotecha the honorary professorship is particularly special because his family came to Leicester 50 years ago as refugees, when he was a child, after the Ugandan Asian community were expelled by the Dictator Idi Amin.
Supported by his parents, he was able to secure a County Council grant, which enabled him to gain a first-class (Hons) degree in Newcastle, and then his PhD at Imperial College London with further doctoral research at the University of Cambridge.
As part of his new role, Dr Kotecha will be delivering guest lectures, while sharing his expertise with students and academics across all faculties, with a focus on enterprise and innovation development, as well as student employability.
Talking about his ambition to share his own experiences, in the hopes of inspiring the next generation of entrepreneurs, Dr Kotecha said: “Education opened many doors and gave me important chances in life. I would be humbled if today’s students would see my story as an inspiration to raise their aspirations and follow their own dreams. It takes passion, commitment, hard work; but can be achieved by anyone who has the will and a positive attitude.
“I started Morningside from a home garage 30 years ago and grew it through entrepreneurship and embracing innovation into a global pharmaceuticals manufacturer and exporter. I hope that I will be able to share my story with students and inspire them to say, ‘if he can do it, I can do it’. If this is the case, then I will have succeeded in my role as professor.”
As well as sharing his experiences with the students, Dr Kotecha will also be taking up an advisory role with the university’s Leadership Team; drawing on his experience as an influencer in business, politics, and philanthropy.
This experience as a regional and national leader in the business world includes being chair of the East Midlands CBI, a Department for International Trade Export Champion; and a Board Member for the Midlands Engine Council, the Centre for Social Justice, the British Asian Trust and the Leicester and Leicestershire Enterprise Partnership (LLEP).
Talking about the advice he plans to share with students, Dr Kotecha added: “I was there making life-changing decisions as a student in the 1990s, so I understand what today’s students are going through now. I would like to help them discover that the skills they have learned in academia will open them up to so many more exciting opportunities in the world.
“My advice would be, find your passion. Then when you find your passion, discover your purpose in life. And having discovered your purpose in life, find your career.”
Congratulating Dr Kotecha on his appointment, pro-vice chancellor and dean of the Faculty of Health and Life Sciences, Simon Oldroyd, said: “DMU is so proud to welcome Dr Kotecha as a professor of Entrepreneurship, Innovation and Philanthropy. He is one of Leicestershire’s great business success stories and he has helped millions around the globe.
“The vast experience Dr Kotecha has accrued in the world of medicine, business and philanthropy over 35 years, coupled with his incredible drive to succeed and help others, will bring huge benefits to our students, academics and the wider community.”
Another successful year for the East Midlands Expo
Last Monday (14 November) the annual East Midlands Expo descended on the East Midlands Conference Centre, with Business Link in attendance as partners.
Proving once again to be a huge success, the event organisers have already received “fantastic feedback” from exhibitors and delegates alike.
Free to attend, the established event of over 20 years presents everything you require for the ultimate day of business generation.
The day of networking opened to attendees at 9am, and welcomed speakers Alex Thornton (Human Alchemy), Mark Rayers and Tony Goddard (BSP Consulting), Luke Prout (Streets Chartered Accountants), and Andrew Pritchard (East Midlands Councils), all offering some positivity on what has been a year of uncertainty.
A sold out networking lunch also took place.
The East Midlands Expo will return in 2023. For more information click here.
Nottingham Castle closes to visitors as Trust begins process of appointing liquidators
Nottingham Castle Trust has begun the process of appointing liquidators, with the Castle grounds and exhibitions closing to all visitors until further notice.
Tim Bateson and Chris Pole of Interpath Advisory have been nominated by the board to be appointed as liquidators to formally wind up the affairs of the Trust. Their appointment will take place during the course of the next ten days.
A statement from Nottingham Castle says: “We would like to thank all the Castle’s supporters, including the thousands of visitors that have been through our gates. Finally, a huge thank you to staff and volunteers who made Nottingham Castle such an amazing place to visit.”
The news follows work to transform the castle, with a £31m redevelopment project including the refurbishment of the 17th century Ducal Palace, medieval Gatehouse, and sprawling cave networks. A new Visitor Centre, located within the foreground of the remodelled landscape, meanwhile, was created to provide new guest facilities.
Visitor numbers have been lower than anticipated, while the Trust has seen a number of controversies.
Nottingham City Council’s portfolio holder for leisure, culture & planning, Cllr Pavlos Kotsonis, said: “It is a matter of huge disappointment that Nottingham Castle Trust, which has been responsible for operating Nottingham Castle, has informed us that in light of its trading performance, it is in the process of appointing liquidators and closing the site, which it will be handing back to the council.
“This is clearly a significant blow for the city and its visitor economy. The council’s immediate priority is to work with the appointed liquidators to support those staff at the Castle who have been affected by this sad news, and to safeguard the site and its collections while it is not operational.
“We appreciate the significant efforts that the employees of the Trust have put into the site and understand how devastated they must be by this news.
“We will re-open the castle as soon as possible. Once we have a clearer picture from the liquidators, we will explore all available options together with our key partners The National Lottery Heritage Fund, Arts Council England and others to develop a fresh business model.
“There is a real commitment from all parties to see this important cultural asset fulfil its full potential for the city and the wider region as a successful visitor attraction, playing a key part in our wider plans to bring investment, jobs, visitors and growth to Nottingham and its residents.”
Wilko enters talks for £30m loan
Nottinghamshire-headquartered Wilko is in talks to land an emergency loan as cost pressures grow for retailers as we approach Christmas, according to The Times.
Wilko is said to be looking to alternative lenders for a £30 million injection, entering the talks after being unable to agree to an extension of its revolving credit facility, due to interest rate rises.
The news follows the business agreeing a sale and leaseback deal with DHL at its Nottinghamshire distribution centre to unlock £48 million.
The company said this would be just the first of a series of positive partnership benefits that would allow the business to further improve the proposition and the customer experience across its 402 stores and wilko.com.
At the time, Jerome Saint-Marc, wilko CEO, said: “It’s standard business practice to constantly review how we manage our finances. This property deal with DHL represents long-term stability for us and our team members and is the right response to the current market conditions and our priorities.
“We’re making smart choices to trade a business and allow us to continue to invest in our long-term transformational strategy. Wilko remains family owned and continues to focus on helping hard working families to be the best that they can be, delivering great value products to our customers.”
Mobility products manufacturer secures J28 warehouse unit
Commercial Property Partners (CPP) has let a 64,002 sq ft modern warehouse facility at The Nursery in South Normanton to Pride Mobility UK Limited.
The US company, the designer and manufacturer of mobility products, recently acquired the Nottinghamshire-based rise/reclining chair manufacturer Sitting Pretty with a view to relocating its whole operation to accommodate future expansion plans.
Unit 2, which forms part of The Nursery industrial scheme, offered Pride Mobility three times the space of the previous manufacturing site, with circa 85 staff relocating to the new base, which also enjoys easy access to Jct 28 of the M1, only one mile away.
Built in 2006, Unit 2 is a detached steel portal frame unit with 10m clear working height, four dock level loading doors, two level access loading doors, a two storey open plan office with canteen and welfare facilities. Externally, the unit boasts a 40m concrete, fenced and gated yard and circa 80 parking spaces.
Wincobank Way forms part of the South Normanton industrial estate, an established commercial location which has attracted numerous key occupiers including Eurocell, Alloga UK, Radius Systems and GXO Logistics. Road connectivity and access to a local skilled labour market also help to underpin the location as a sought-after manufacturing and logistical base.
Sean Bremner, director at CPP, said: “Staff retention was a key requirement for the tenant and so finding a solution within relative close proximity to their existing premises was important. The company is very brand conscious and Unit 2 represents a high quality building to fit the profile of Pride Mobility UK Limited.
“There was a lot of interest in the facility and we’re delighted to have secured Pride Mobility UK Limited whose expansion ambitions can only be good for the area.”
Stephen Wright, operation director at Pride Mobility UK, said: “Thanks to Sean Bremner, CPP & the owners of the Building. We have been able to move into this building much quicker than we expected, which in turn has given us the space we desperately needed due to the business growing rapidly since acquiring Sitting Pretty back in July 2021.
“The new building gives us the space we need to move the whole operation under one roof, including dispatching goods from South Normanton instead of our Pride Mobility subsidiary in Oxfordshire and more importantly being able to keep all of our existing staff and their wealth of experience rather than having to relocate the business to a different area.
“From January 2023, Sitting Pretty by Pride Mobility Ltd will be running its newly polished, full scale operation out of South Normanton for the foreseeable future.”
Growth for rg+p’s planning division
The planning division at multi-disciplinary design practice, rg+p continues to grow with director, Chris Lindley reporting two new appointments alongside instructions from across the development industry including strategic land promotion, affordable housing, later living, commercial, energy and heritage projects.
“Since I joined the practice circa 18 months ago, the team and our work has evolved quite significantly,” says Chris. “Two new senior planners, Ellie Dukes and Dale Radford have joined with backgrounds in planning policy and development management respectively, meaning we’ve been able to collaborate more closely with our design colleagues, especially on the architecture and placemaking sides.
“We’ve also increased the diversity of our portfolio, undertaking several projects in historic environments involving listed building and scheduled monument consent regimes. This includes the Butterley Engineering site in Derbyshire where our work is supporting a significant regeneration project. Further diversification has seen us appointed on renewable energy schemes including solar PV installations in sensitive environments such as the Grade II listed St Mary’s College in Oscott, West Midlands.
“Of course, this is not to discount our work in the housing sector, where we remain especially active, working for five leading affordable and specialist housing providers across the UK as well as promoting strategic land opportunities including an outline planning application we have recently submitted in the Derbyshire Dales for respected land promoters, Richborough Estates.
“Looking ahead, there are inevitably challenges to navigate. Firstly, urgent reform is needed in the planning sector to rebalance resources and unblock the sheer volume of cases so that development can progress. Secondly, more effective and constructive communication between public and private sector colleagues is absolutely essential as it can overcome these resource challenges and focus professional debate.
“Unfortunately, the pandemic has exacerbated a reliance on virtual communication and this prohibits building natural rapport. There are some local authorities positively addressing this by re-introducing forums for discussion, and their officers and members should be applauded for this, but it’s needed as standard practice on a national scale to bring professionals together and promote positive dialogue.
“From an rg+p perspective, we anticipate several significant instructions maturing over the next year as we continue to support our architecture and project management colleagues and diversify further into the commercial, student and education sectors, meaning we are therefore likely to recruit in the near future. We’re also seeking to become more knowledge-led, using our expertise and awareness of legislative reform to add value for clients,” concludes Chris.
200 Degrees names Switch Up as charity partner in three-year commitment
East Midlands-based coffee roaster 200 Degrees Coffee has announced its partnership with Nottingham-based Switch Up, as part of a three-year commitment.
The roaster has created a unique Switch Up roast of coffee and brand-new coffee pods, which will be available to order across its 18 coffee shops, with £1 in every kilo roasted going directly to the charity – with a minimum commitment of £10,000 a year.
The speciality grade coffee itself is grown in Guatemala produced exclusively by female farmers, which is unusual in the typical male dominated coffee industry, under the ‘La Morena’ collective group from Volcafe Select. Since they joined the programme, the farmers have raised the quality of their coffee, increased their yields, and, as a consequence, started earning more. In teaching them best practices, their farms are turning out excellent coffee and becoming viable businesses.
Customers can request the Switch Up blend when purchasing bags of coffee in store or online, and on sit in or takeaway drinks during selected times.
Switch Up, which was founded by CEO Marcellus Baz BEM, empowers young people, children and young adults from disadvantaged communities affected by crime and violence to reach their true potential. The charity uses its five-pillar approach to help connect young people with employment, training and education opportunities.
The three-year partnership with 200 Degrees will provide much-needed funding for the charity, enabling its team of mentors to continue to offer their vital support to young people and run its sister organisation the Nottingham School of Boxing.
CEO Rob Darby said: “Life can be challenging and volatile for some young people and the incredible work Marcellus and the Switch Up team do has a direct and positive impact on young lives.
“200 Degrees is a Nottingham born business and it’s important to us to support local organisations and causes. The passion, care and impact of Switch Up is immeasurable and we are humbled and proud to be supporting them.”
200 Degrees is also hosting its annual Swap Shop event, across its 18 coffee shops, on Tuesday 6 December. The coffee roaster is asking customers and members of the public to bring new, unused and unopened hygiene items in exchange for a delicious cup of coffee. These items will then be donated to local charities who need them most, with 200 Degrees’ Nottingham Flying Horse Walk shop gifting its donations to chosen charity Switch Up.
Marcellus Baz, founder and CEO of Switch Up, said: “We are absolutely delighted to be galvanising our partnership with 200 Degrees. The support of 200 Degrees, through their amazing Swap Shop initiative, made a significant difference to the help we could provide to vulnerable families across Nottingham last Christmas.
“This year is set to be even bigger and better through the addition of the donations that will be made through the Switch Up coffee. Purchasing a few bags will make a fantastic Christmas gift or it’s a really great way for local businesses to lend their support to a worthy cause that impacts their city.
“All funds will go towards supporting those struggling with their mental health or at risk of having no food on their table or presents under their tree this Christmas. Unfortunately, with the aftereffects of the pandemic and the cost-of-living crisis still being felt, this will mean that we will be helping more local people than ever before.”
Since its inception in 2013, Switch Up has continued to support over 800 young people at any one time from its boxing gym in St Ann’s, Nottingham, and earlier this year, from a second location in Mansfield. The charity has further plans for expansion, to reach and support more young people and their families.
4 tech upgrades all SBEs must have before 2023
Technology upgrades may seem like the least important investment for small businesses—but there’s a good reason why they should be prioritised. Startups Magazine reveals that more than three quarters of UK SBEs fail to compete with more established organisations due to their lack of access to innovative technologies. Many SBE professionals still rely on spreadsheets and other outdated technologies, which negatively affects their growth, recruitment efforts, and cybersecurity.
Budget constraints often hold back entrepreneurs from investing in the latest technologies. Instead of purchasing every innovation, small businesses can optimise their budgets and experience their desired growth by focusing on the following technology upgrades:
Upgrade your cybersecurity software programs
Cyberthreats have advanced, which makes it easy for attackers to prey upon businesses with old hardware and software programs.
The Cybersecurity Breaches Survey 2022 revealed that two in five businesses experienced breaches and attacks in the past year, with some even getting threats at least once a week. Unfortunately, only 13% of small businesses review the security risks of their systems, making them very vulnerable to cyberattacks. To prevent these issues, the first tech upgrade small businesses need is an updated cybersecurity software program, such as SecPod SanerNow or LifeLock. These programs regularly check security vulnerabilities and block cyberthreats immediately, which are useful for small businesses.
Leverage virtual reality for recruitment tasks
It’s quite difficult for small businesses to attract candidates, especially if they’re still establishing their brand.
However, an insight on LHH regarding new technologies shares that businesses can use virtual reality gadgets like 8i to create 3D videos of the business for job postings. A survey found that these videos can increase the posting’s chance of being viewed by more than 12% and generate more applications by 34%, which is why it’s not surprising that big companies like GE and Ocado produce 3D recruitment videos. Aside from that, businesses can also utilise VR headsets for virtual interviews to make the applicant attraction and assessment process much easier.
Invest in AI for personalised marketing strategies
Marketing strategies can be difficult to execute when you have limited staff. Businesses typically have to assess thousands or even millions of marketing data to properly target their consumers.
To make this process easier, plenty of organisations leverage artificial intelligence. Our article on How to Use AI to Improve Your Marketing Strategy highlights that businesses can personalise their e-mail campaigns based on their target audience through tools like Optimail. On top of that, businesses can also upgrade from their marketing technologies to tools like Optimove, which can analyse customer data and generate actionable insights for your marketing campaigns.
Centralise your CRM technologies
Instead of juggling multiple customer service tasks, small business owners can improve their customers’ experience by utilising customer relationship management (CRM) tools.
These technologies are more crucial than ever, now that the Institute of Customer Service discovered a 16% rise in customer problems in the UK. The institute calculates that UK firms spend about £9.24bn every month to simply handle complaints from their consumers. These costly issues can be prevented by centralised CRM technologies, like Zendesk or Microsoft Dynamics. These tools organise customer data in its storage and automates interactions like calls and meetings to help businesses provide better customer experiences.
Relying on outdated technologies can lead to costly problems, like customer complaints, limited staff, and cyberattacks. Through these four upgraded technologies, SBEs can improve their offerings and optimise their operations.
Copley Scientific named Nottinghamshire Business of the Year
Copley Scientific, which designs and manufactures pharmaceutical test equipment used across the world, has been crowned the Nottinghamshire Business of the Year by East Midlands Chamber.
The Nottingham-based company – which exports about 85% of its products to more than 70 markets across Europe, Asia, Australasia, Africa, and North and South America – also won the Excellence in International Trade and Small Business categories at the Nottinghamshire Business Awards, which was held on Friday (18 November).
Established in 1946 and employing more than 30 people in Colwick, Copley Scientific has made major investments in its manufacturing capabilities in recent years to develop new products. As part of its global expansion, the company has made its website available in both English and Mandarin languages to help growth in China, while it has become a regular at trade shows in target markets.
The Nottinghamshire Business Awards, held in partnership with headline sponsor Mazars, recognised East Midlands Chamber members across 13 categories, ranging from Excellence in Innovation and Environmental Impact at organisational level through to individual honours for Entrepreneur of the Year and Apprentice of the Year, in addition to the overall Business of the Year winner.
Finalists, chosen by a judging panel of the Chamber’s senior leadership and board of directors, as well as sponsors, discovered their fate during a gala dinner attended by hundreds of people at the Nottingham Belfry Hotel. Scott Knowles, Chief Executive of East Midlands Chamber, said: “The past few years have been challenging for our business community, and yet we continue to see so many shining examples of business success across our region.
“It’s always important to celebrate these achievements and shout about the great things happening right here in Nottinghamshire. We know it is a fantastic place to do business and these organisations – many of which have worked together to maximise their impact within their sectors and communities – are doing a wonderful job.
“Later this month, the Chamber will launch a Business Manifesto for Growth in the East Midlands and Beyond in Parliament that illustrates how our region is a Centre of Trading Excellence. Our Business Awards are full of companies that are living proof of this.”
The Nottinghamshire Business Awards – one of three awards hosted by the Chamber, along with Derbyshire and Leicestershire – were hosted by comedian Patrick Monahan.
A raffle was held to raise funds for East Midlands Chamber president Lindsey Williams’ three chosen charities this year – Focus, Nottinghamshire Wildlife Trust and Treetops Hospice.
Lindsey, Chief Executive of housing association Futures Housing Group, added: “Behind every nominee and winner whose name will go up in lights are people and organisations that are truly delivering for the region. Their achievements generate employment, wealth and opportunity not just for those directly connected, but for the wider community.
“So I’m proud to see the Chamber yet again take the opportunity to bring us together and celebrate our top talent – for their success but also for what they bring to the East Midlands as a whole.”
Howes Percival strengthens East Mids commercial property team with senior appointment
Howes Percival has strengthened its commercial property team in the East Midlands with the appointment of Michelle Woolston as a director.
An experienced property solicitor, Michelle has re-joined Howes Percival where she trained and worked for a number of years, from Kemsley & Company.
Michelle deals with all aspects of commercial property work, including commercial and residential development; advising landowners and developers in relation to options, conditional contracts and promotion agreements; dealing with landlord and tenant matters, including portfolio acquisitions and management; corporate support and secured lending.
Lucy Lord, commercial property partner at Howes Percival, said: “We are delighted to welcome Michelle back. She first joined Howes Percival as a trainee in 2000 and worked from both our Leicester and Northampton offices for a number of years after qualifying. Michelle is a very accomplished property solicitor with a proven track record, a wealth of experience and a loyal client following.
“The market remains resilient, and with the addition of Michelle we have strengthened our commercial property offering to support our clients.”
University appoints OMEETO for property disposals
Commercial property consultants OMEETO has been appointed by the University of Derby to handle the sale of several surplus properties in Derbyshire and Staffordshire.
OMEETO will work alongside Tim Garratt FRICS of Blackstar Advisory in the disposal programme which includes:
- Oaklands Manor in Buxton – a former outdoor pursuits centre with 57 acres of woodland which is currently used as a leadership training centre
- Northwood House in Buxton which was originally built as a gentleman’s residence and is steeped in local history which has scope for conversion
- The Harpur Hill Sports Centre in Buxton which is currently part of the Buxton and Leek College
- A commercial retail premises in Leek
Chilled Pubs Group snaps up modern food grade unit in Derbyshire
Burton-based commercial property agents, Rushton Hickman Ltd, has let a 5,163 sq ft (479.7 sq m) modern food grade specification unit to the Chilled Pubs Group for their in-house storage, food preparation and brewing purposes.
The property is located on Oaklands Farm, Coton Lane, Walton-on-Trent, and is fully insulated, including wipe down walls, cold store, resin flooring and internal drainage.
The Chilled Pubs Group are a well-established chain of local pubs specialising in high quality food offerings sourced from local suppliers.
Chilled Pubs commercial director, Travis Toyne, said: “We have a simple philosophy – seriously good food, in an unserious way!
“We chose this location as it is central to our current pubs and was only 1 mile from our previous smaller unit where the central team used to operate from. We needed somewhere that ticked the boxes for the company, but also our team who already worked in our central kitchen.
“We chose this unit as it gives us gives us consistency across our pubs, offers great growth opportunities, and the biggest opportunity for us is to be able to utilise the location of being on a dairy farm and explore the possibility of making Jersey Milk Gelato, having our own milk, and making our own butter.”
Rushton Hickman commercial property agent, Simon Walker, said: “I met Travis at another property, which didn’t quite meet with his requirements and advised him that he should view the unit that he has now leased without delay.
“I arranged access with my client and we both headed off to view that unit immediately, as finding the right property and completing the lease within a swift timescale was particularly important to Travis. Naturally, Chilled Pubs, the landlord and Rushton Hickman are all delighted to have completed on this lease deal.”
Further deadline extension for Pendragon takeover bid
Nottingham-headquartered car retailer Pendragon has further extended the ‘put-up or shut-up’ deadline for Hedin Group to make its firm offer for the business, though has said “there can be no certainty that a firm offer will be made.”
The Hedin Group, which has over 200 car dealerships, is a family-owned company with operations mainly in the sale and service of vehicles, wholesale of spare parts and tires for vehicles and rental car operations.
Back in September Pendragon received an unsolicited, preliminary and conditional proposal from Hedin Group regarding a possible cash offer for the entire issued and to be issued share capital of Pendragon at 29 pence per share, valuing it at £400m.
Then on 24 October, Pendragon confirmed that the put-up or shut-up deadline had been extended to 21 November to allow Hedin Group to finalise its necessary due diligence.
Now, “in order to finalise the necessary transaction documentation,” the company has requested and been granted an additional extension to the date by which Hedin Group is required either to announce a firm intention to make an offer for Pendragon or to announce that it does not intend to make an offer.
This must now be made by 9 December 2022.
Another bid for the firm however may yet be made, following speculation reported by The Telegraph that Constellation Automotive, the group behind Webuyanycar and Cinch, could launch a rival offer. Pendragon recently found itself embroiled in a $60m ransom demand after a cyber security breach.