Thursday, July 10, 2025

Accelerator programme boosts growth for 5,000 East Midlands firms

A total of 4,790 businesses across Derbyshire, Nottinghamshire, and Leicester have received support from an initiative designed to foster innovation, growth, and sustainability. The programme, launched in 2023 by East Midlands Chamber and funded by the UK Shared Prosperity Fund (UKSPF), aims to help firms scale and navigate the challenges of modern business environments.

The initiative, which operates on behalf of local authorities in Derby, Leicester, and Nottinghamshire, has already led to the creation of 143 new businesses, the safeguarding of 505 jobs, and the creation of 598 new roles. Additionally, 401 companies have introduced new products, technologies, and processes, significantly improving their competitive edge. Several firms have also increased their export capability as part of the programme.

The Accelerator Programme, which offers expert business advice, grants, growth vouchers for technology investment, decarbonisation support, and sustainability workshops, has been extended until March 2025. Erewash businesses will also be included after joining the initiative.

For businesses looking to scale, the High Growth Accelerator provides tailored support, while those with international trade ambitions can benefit from the Export Accelerator. Businesses interested in the programme can register online to access one-on-one advice and explore the various support services available.

Chesterfield businesses focus on skills and innovation to boost the visitor economy

Chesterfield’s visitor economy continues to grow, but business leaders are calling for further investment in skills and innovation to ensure its long-term success.

At a recent roundtable event hosted by Destination Chesterfield, local business, tourism, and heritage leaders met to address challenges and explore how the region can nurture the next generation of hospitality and cultural professionals.

A key issue discussed was the shortage of skilled workers in certain areas of the sector, particularly in technical roles like chefs and kitchen staff. Industry leaders emphasized the importance of encouraging more young people to pursue these roles as a rewarding career path.

Regional efforts are being made to support local businesses through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund, which provides mentoring, coaching, and practical support. Over 100 Chesterfield businesses have benefited from this initiative, with significant results including the creation of new jobs and the adoption of new technologies.

The roundtable participants also highlighted the importance of early work experience opportunities for young people, which can serve as a powerful recruitment tool. Many agreed that connecting businesses with schools before students make career choices could help build a pipeline of talent for the industry.

Additionally, the conversation turned to the role of digital tools and AI in supporting business growth. While AI holds potential for marketing, customer insights, and data-driven decision-making, industry leaders noted that human connection remains irreplaceable in hospitality and tourism.

The event concluded with a consensus on the importance of collaboration and continuous support for training and development to help businesses thrive in an increasingly competitive environment.

New venture connects UK farmers with community buyers to reduce food waste

A new social venture has been launched by the University of Nottingham and the University of Bristol aimed at reducing food waste and addressing food insecurity. Circular Agriculture Hub connects small-scale farmers with community buyers, including food banks, social supermarkets, and small food producers, to sell surplus produce.

The venture was established with £40,000 in seed funding from ImpactU and is the outcome of a long-term academic collaboration between Dr Lucy McCarthy of Bristol and Professor Anne Touboulic of Nottingham. Research shows that seven per cent of food intended for consumption is wasted on UK farms each year. Meanwhile, millions of people face food insecurity. Circular Agriculture Hub aims to mitigate this issue by facilitating the redistribution of surplus or imperfect produce, such as misshapen vegetables or cosmetically damaged fruit, to those in need.

Initially operating offline in a brokerage-style model, the platform will evolve into a digital tool to enhance its national, and potentially international, reach. This social venture reflects the universities’ dedication to impactful research, social good, and sustainable food practices. The launch and initial investment funding align with the universities’ broader goals of addressing key societal and environmental challenges.

East Midlands professional services group swoops for Northern Irish firm

East Midlands professional services group Cooper Parry is continuing its run of acquisitions, snapping up Northern Ireland-based firm CavanaghKelly. Over 25 years, the seven partners and 100+ strong CavanaghKelly team has built a strong reputation as one of the region’s most respected multi-service line accountancy and business advisory firms. This latest deal is Cooper Parry’s 15th in just over two years.   Ade Cheatham, CEO, Cooper Parry said:  “CavanaghKelly gives us more than a footprint – it gives us a foundation. Their values, their people, and the trust they’ve built in Northern Ireland make this a perfect fit. “Together, we’ve got the chance to build something bold across the island – with roots, rhythm, and real ambition. It’s another big step in making CP the standout challenger firm across the UK and Ireland.” Des Kelly, CavanaghKelly founding partner, continued: “In selecting the right partner for the next phase of our growth journey, we went through a thorough evaluation of our options. Immediately, Cooper Parry stood out, creating an incredibly strong first impression. Our alignment on values, vision and ambition couldn’t be stronger. “The deeper our discussions became, the clearer it was that CP’s bold vision for service lines, tech, outsourcing and delivery models aligned perfectly with ours – challenging the norm, thinking differently, and delivering quality service through quality people. We cannot wait to be part of this.” Catherine Martin, CavanaghKelly managing partner, added: “Joining CP presents an exciting opportunity to accelerate our journey.  It’s an exciting time for our staff and our clients, and we’re looking forward to what we can achieve together.”

Huxloe and Shipster join forces to enhance parcel management for eCommerce retailers

Huxloe Group, a third-party logistics provider from Kettering, has teamed up with Shipster, a provider of advanced shipping integration software, to create a smarter parcel management system tailored for eCommerce retailers. This new collaboration integrates Shipster’s sophisticated shipping rules engine with Huxloe’s delivery and multi-carrier management systems, providing a comprehensive solution for retailers seeking to enhance their logistics operations.

Retailers using Shipster’s platform can now access Huxloe’s expansive network of fulfilment and carrier management services, while maintaining the flexibility of Shipster’s customisable shipping rules.

Huxloe handles over 50 million parcels annually for major clients, including eBay and Amazon, and the partnership enhances its offering with greater shipping customisation for complex needs.

This alliance also gives retailers access to a broader range of couriers, including Evri, Yodel, Royal Mail, and FedEx, without being tied to a single provider. As the delivery sector evolves, the collaboration ensures that retailers can remain responsive to market shifts and optimise their logistics operations.

Doc, I’m from the future: East Midlands businesses seek skills flux capacitor

East Midlands business leaders are channelling their inner Doc Brown – and they’ve got a message for their past selves: “Great Scott! Train your team!” In a nod to Back to the Future’s 40th birthday, Lloyds’ Business Barometer shows nearly half (45%) of East Midlands bosses would go back in time to boost skills in their workforce. A similar proportion would invest more in marketing or communications (47%), while two in five (40%) would launch new products or services. Look ahead to the future and the skills race is still on. Nearly half (47%) say upskilling is key to growth, with skills relating to sustainability (62%), AI (51%), cybersecurity (48%) and leadership (45%) top of their priority lists. Dave Atkinson, regional director for the East Midlands, said: “Across the East Midlands, businesses are taking cues from past experience as they plan ahead and prioritise the skills that will help them grow. “Alongside know-how in areas like sustainability or AI, leadership skills are seen as a vital ingredient to long-term success – something that will help companies not only achieve their ambitions, but also build even stronger resilience.”

Trentbarton submits demolition plans for Derby bus depot

Trentbarton has proposed demolishing its bus depot on Meadow Road in Derby as part of its long-term redevelopment plans. The company, which has been in operation for over 100 years, plans to demolish three buildings that no longer meet modern standards. The structures are described as outdated, poorly insulated, and containing non-notifiable asbestos.

The plans, now submitted to Derby City Council, outline that the depot will remain operational during the demolition process. Trentbarton’s fleet will continue to operate from Meadow Road while redevelopment takes place.

Previously, the company had sought approval to relocate its depot to a larger site in Stores Road, in the north-east of the city, but the permission appears to have lapsed due to a lack of development.

A decision on the latest demolition proposal is expected later this year.

Business leaders to gather at Kelham Hall for Chamber President’s Celebration

On 9 October 2025, the East Midlands Chamber will host its annual President’s Celebration at Kelham Hall. The event promises to unite over 500 business leaders from the region for an evening of networking, celebration, and inspiration.

Taking place at The Renaissance at Kelham Hall, the evening will begin with welcome drinks and networking in the Library and Music Hall, allowing guests to mingle and unwind. The venue also features a Billiards Room for those seeking a bit of fun before the formal proceedings begin.

The evening will feature keynote speaker Dr Jo Salter MBE, the UK’s first female fighter jet pilot, who will share her insights on leadership and high-performance in fast-paced environments. Dr Salter’s stories from her air force career will offer valuable lessons for business leaders looking to make an impact in their organisations.

Following the speeches, the finalists for the East Midlands Chamber Business Awards 2025/26 will be announced across 12 categories. A high standard of entries is expected this year, with judges facing a difficult task in selecting the winners.

£8m funding package secured for Loughborough student accommodation scheme

Paragon Bank has provided an £8m funding package to SME developer Six Degrees, part of 9 Property Group, to support the refinance and development of a 100-bed purpose-built student accommodation (PBSA) scheme in Loughborough. The facility has helped refinance the existing site and is supporting the development of a new, high-spec PBSA complex located in the heart of Loughborough town centre. Now three months into construction, the scheme is on track to welcome its first intake of students in September 2026. The accommodation will comprise of 100 en-suite bedrooms arranged across 22 cluster flats. The completed scheme is expected to deliver a Gross Development Value (GDV) of £12.2m. Taj Ubhi, founder and CEO of 9 Property Group which owns Six Degrees, said: “We’re excited to be bringing forward another PBSA development in a location we know well. Paragon’s understanding of the sector and agile approach to funding has made them an ideal partner, and we’re looking forward to delivering this scheme ahead of the 2025 academic year.” Karl Kent, relationship director at Paragon Bank, said: “We’re proud to support Six Degrees with this high-quality PBSA scheme in a town where demand for student accommodation continues to grow. “Taj and the team have a strong track record in delivering similar projects and we’re confident this development will be a welcome addition to Loughborough’s student housing offering. It’s been a pleasure to work with Six Degrees on their first deal with Paragon and we look forward to supporting them on future projects.”

Derby industrial investment sold

Acting on behalf of a private landlord client, NG Chartered Surveyors has completed the freehold sale of two modern industrial units on the Sir Francis Ley Industrial Estate in Derby. Units 26 and 26a Cottonbrook Road have been acquired by property investment firm Manston. Strategically located near the junction with Osmaston Road, the site offers excellent connectivity to both the inner and outer ring roads, providing access to the south of Derby city centre. The fully let investment includes long-standing tenants McDonald’s – operating the unit as a delivery hub – and auto parts. The transaction was led by NG’s head of agency, Thomas Szymkiw, who said: “This was a fantastic opportunity to bring to market a high-quality, income-producing asset in one of Derby’s most established industrial locations. We’re pleased to have achieved a successful outcome for our client and to have helped facilitate Manston’s latest acquisition.” Manston was advised by Phil Randle of Salloways commercial property consultants.

Derbyshire healthcare e-learning firm snapped up

Agilio Software, a Sheffield-based provider of healthcare software solutions, has acquired Blue Stream Academy, a Derbyshire healthcare e-learning solutions firm. This strategic acquisition brings together two well-recognised providers in Primary Care to create a comprehensive and complementary healthcare learning platform. The combined platform will integrate content from Blue Stream Academy, which covers the wider healthcare practice team, with Agilio’s GP-aligned courses. The acquisition significantly expands Agilio’s sector reach, taking the company into new healthcare sectors including Social Care, Urgent Care, and Hospice & Palliative Care. “We are excited to join forces with Agilio Software,” said Casey Braddock, Blue Stream Academy CEO. “Our combined expertise and resources will enable us to deliver even greater value to our customers, providing them a broader range of content and access to Agilio’s platform of market-leading HR tools.” Ben Betts, CEO of Agilio Software, added: “We are delighted to welcome Blue Stream Academy and all their customers to the Agilio family. “This acquisition aligns with our vision of providing comprehensive and innovative healthcare learning solutions as part of making our frontline healthcare services operationally excellent. Together, we will continue to support and empower healthcare professionals with the best tools and resources available.”

Fletchers expands in Midlands with acquisition of Shoosmiths’ Serious Injury practice

Fletchers Group has agreed to acquire the Serious Injury practice of national law firm Shoosmiths, in a deal that significantly expands the Group’s presence across the Midlands and South East. Around 80 colleagues, including eight partners, will join Fletchers – the serious injury and clinical negligence law firm. The move adds new bases in Birmingham, Northampton and the Thames Valley, complementing the Group’s existing hubs in Manchester, Liverpool, Leeds, Bolton, Southport, Newcastle, and Cambridge. Fletchers Group CEO Peter Haden said: “Shoosmiths’ Serious Injury practice has a strong track record in complex, high-value cases, including major birth injury and catastrophic injury claims. I am confident that they will make a major contribution to our business – not just in case volumes but through their deep experience of this area of the law.” The deal also includes a substantial number of Court of Protection clients, further strengthening Fletchers’ specialist legal services in this complex area. Shoosmiths’ Serious Injury lead partner Phil Barnes will lead the new business in the Midlands and South and oversee the integration over the next six months. He said: “From the outset, Fletchers stood out as a firm that not only shares our values but has the infrastructure, appetite and vision to take our practice to the next level. I’m incredibly proud of everything our team has achieved at Shoosmiths, and I’m excited about what we’ll be able to do together as part of Fletchers in the years ahead.” Shoosmiths’ CEO David Jackson added: “The serious injury market has evolved quickly, and continued success in this area demands substantial, specialist investment. After extensive discussions, we’re confident that Fletchers offers the right home for our people and our clients, with the focus, scale, and ambition needed to support long-term growth.” The deal brings Fletchers’ total legal headcount to over 800.

Midlands mid-sized businesses predict growth despite trade bottlenecks

Midlands mid-sized businesses are optimistic about plans to export overseas in the next year, despite recent turmoil in global trade and tough economic challenges. This is according to the latest research from accounting and business advisory firm, BDO. BDO’s survey of over 500 mid-sized businesses reveals that more than a third (35%) of regional companies are confident about their growth prospects over the next 12 months. Expansion plans also include opening new premises, recruiting new staff and investing in new technologies and R&D. Midlands businesses see exports as an important part of their growth strategy over the next year – with nearly two in five (39%) citing strong or growing demand as their main motivation. More than half (51%) said favourable trade agreements or government support in receiving markets makes them more attractive. Asked which regions would be the most appealing, 41% said Eastern Europe and Central Asia as businesses work to forge new trade corridors amid ongoing negotiations between the UK and other territories. Similarly, more than a third (34%) were most interested in Asia-Pacific. For nearly one in three (30%), the opportunity to diversify away from dependence on other markets, such as the European Union, was a deciding factor. As the Government continues to discuss favourable terms on trade with the United States, North America ranked as the most attractive export region for more than a third (35%). Despite optimism amongst Midlands businesses, major challenges could still stifle growth prospects. Nearly two thirds (60%) consider the combination of overseas trade complications and supply chain pressures, including changing tariffs and delays or shortages in distribution networks, as a top challenge. This follows continued uncertainty around trade tariffs for the US market. Kyla Bellingall, regional managing partner at BDO in the Midlands, said: “These findings show the resilience of the Midlands mid-market in the face of significant challenges and their potential to be a major international force for UK economic growth. “Mid-sized businesses in the region generate significant revenues and support hundreds of thousands of private sector jobs. Frictionless trade is crucial to help these companies power the UK economy forward. “Although the Trade Strategy published last week is welcome, targeted support for mid-sized businesses – whether that’s new hubs to support them to export or trade deals enabling their access to international markets – must build on this and create the right conditions to help them deliver their plans for growth and thrive.”

Financial and related professional services remain vital part of East Midlands economy

Financial and related professional services firms remain a vital part of the East Midlands economy, according to new research into the industry’s nationwide contribution to UK employment and output. TheCityUK’s ‘Enabling Growth Across the UK 2025’ report shows that the industry employed 88,000 people and contributed £7.2bn – or 5.6% – of the region’s GVA. Industry hubs in Nottingham, Leicester and Northampton underpin this growth, contributing almost four in ten of all financial and related professional services jobs in the region. The East Midlands has historic strength in banking, and nearly two fifths (38%) of the industry’s contribution to GVA comes from the local banking sector. This is almost twice the economic output of the legal services sector, the second largest sector within the industry in the region. The financial and related professional services industry benefits from major universities in the region with strong ties to the financial services. The University of Nottingham and Nottingham Trent University are home to research and career development centres in areas including banking, accountancy and law, supplying a pipeline of highly skilled talent. Sandra Wallace CBE, TheCityUK chair in the Midlands, said: “The East Midlands has deep roots in banking and legal services and is increasingly attracting firms looking for talent and new opportunities to invest. With targeted support for skills and investment, and a stronger local voice in policymaking, we can help the financial and related professional services industry continue to deliver jobs and prosperity.” TheCityUK’s report also sets out a practical policy framework to build on this success and enable the industry to further drive growth across the country. Its recommendations include:
  • Ensuring that the new Strategic Investment Opportunities Unit in the Office for Investment is built on a real and close partnership with the private sector, including, where appropriate, using secondees and other industry experts
  • Stimulating local growth by continuing work towards a devolution settlement across all English regions and sensible alignment with the UK nations, while creating a new Leadership Academy to gather expertise
  • Developing pipelines of local talent by ensuring Skills England works closely with businesses, including on a more flexible Growth and Skills Levy
  • Delivering on the government’s proposal to reform the planning system to encourage growth-enabling infrastructure through greater efficiency, predictability and resource allocation

Showcase sustainable developments at the East Midlands Bricks Awards 2025

With the nomination deadline looming for the East Midlands Bricks Awards 2025, there are 10 categories open for entry, providing a perfect opportunity to shine a light on outstanding businesses, teams and projects at the annual event celebrating the region’s property and construction industry. One such category is Sustainable Development of the Year, which can be entered here. The winner of this category will be the scheme that has displayed a true commitment to sustainable development in the East Midlands, whether this be in an environmental development, social enterprise or a scheme which will benefit the region in other ways, so long as it benefits the future generation. It’s completely free to submit a nomination and making the top three finalists in your category also wins you free tickets to the awards ceremony. Last year, Henry Brothers Construction Ltd scooped the award for Alfreton Park School, beating out stiff competition from CPMG (for the Sir Peter Rubin Centre for Veterinary Education) and Keepmoat (for Gedling Green). Upon winning, Henry Brothers Construction said: “We were absolutely thrilled to pick up the award for Sustainable Development at the East Midlands Bricks. Alfreton Park School was a very special project to us, we really enjoyed our engagement with the pupils and fundraising activities and hopefully this will have a lasting impact on the local communities. We are so pleased that this was recognised by the judges. It was great to attend such an informal and relaxed networking & awards evening hosted by East Midlands Business Link.” With this year’s Sustainable Development of the Year award once again sponsored by Viridis Building Services, a spokesperson for the company said: “We’re proud to once again sponsor the Sustainable Development of the Year award at the Bricks Awards. At Viridis Building Services, sustainability isn’t just a buzzword – it’s the foundation of everything we do, which is why we are so passionate about sponsoring this particular award. “Last year’s event was a fantastic showcase of innovation, collaboration and local talent, and it was inspiring to see so many projects delivering real, measurable impacts, having positive impacts on local social aspects, the environment and the local economy. We believe that building sustainably should also mean building smart, achieving environmental excellence without excessive cost, and this is what we saw last year. “This year, we’re especially looking forward to reviewing and understanding the amazing projects completed and in the pipeline, which promote sustainability in its greatest form. It allows opportunity for connecting with like-minded professionals, celebrating the power of local collaboration, and shining a spotlight on those who are pushing boundaries in sustainable design and construction. “We strongly encourage everyone in the industry to nominate the projects that are helping to shape a greener, more responsible future.” Submit your nominations for Sustainable Development of the Year here before entries close on Friday 15th August. Winners will be revealed at a glittering awards ceremony on Thursday 2nd October, at the Trent Bridge Cricket Ground (4:30pm – 7:30pm) – an evening also offering an opportunity to establish new connections with property and construction professionals from across the region, and hear from keynote speaker Councillor Nadine Peatfield – Leader of Derby City Council, Cabinet Member for City Centre, Regeneration, Strategy and Policy, and Deputy Mayor of the East Midlands. Other award categories open for entry include: Most Active Agent, Developer of the Year, Responsible Business of the Year, Commercial Development of the Year, Contractor of the Year, Deal of the Year, Architects of the Year, Excellence in Design, and Residential Development of the Year. All entry forms can be accessed here. The Overall Winner award will also be presented at the event. This award cannot be entered, with the winner selected from those nominated for the event’s other awards. The Overall Winner of the East Midlands Bricks Awards 2025 will also receive a grand prize of a year of marketing/publicity worth £20,000, with the opportunity to split or gift the marketing to a charity of your choice.  

The East Midlands Bricks Awards 2025

What: The East Midlands Bricks Awards 2025 When: Thursday 2nd October (4.30pm – 7.30pm) Where: Derek Randall Suite, Trent Bridge Cricket Ground, Nottingham Keynote speaker: Councillor Nadine Peatfield – Leader of Derby City Council, Cabinet Member for City Centre, Regeneration, Strategy and Policy, and Deputy Mayor of the East Midlands Tickets: Available here Dress code: Standard business attire Thanks to our sponsors:                                                                

To be held at:

HSG UK extends partnership with Derby County for 2025/26 season

Derby County Football Club has confirmed the continuation of its partnership with HSG UK for the 2025/26 season. The family-run business, based in Pride Park, will maintain its presence on the back of the Men’s and Women’s First Team shirts and shorts, as well as the Men’s B Team and Under-21s.

This marks the third consecutive season of the collaboration, which began in the promotion-winning 2023/24 campaign and was renewed for Derby’s return to the Sky Bet Championship in 2024/25.

HSG UK, recognised for its innovative and award-winning washroom services and water-saving solutions, has earned a solid reputation in the industry. The company was honoured with the prestigious King’s Award for Enterprise in May 2024, alongside recognition at the Family Business Awards and East Midlands Chamber Business Awards.

The renewed agreement underscores HSG UK’s dedication to supporting local businesses and the community, reflecting both its deep ties to Derby and its mission to assist companies nationwide in reducing their environmental impact.

M&S accelerates store renewals and strengthens East Midlands distribution amid cyber recovery

Marks & Spencer is ramping up its store investment with £300m dedicated to the renewal of its outlets in the current financial year. The plan includes 16 new stores, nine extensions, and 12 renewals. The new locations will feature improved store formats, with wider aisles, enhanced entrances, and modern shelving displays.

The expansion involves 12 food halls, two full-line stores, and two outlet stores. New full-line stores are set to open in Bath Southgate and Bristol Cabot Circus, while new food halls will be introduced in Bell Green, Sydenham, Abingdon, Cannock, and Farnham.

This renewed activity comes as M&S has signed 47 property deals in the last year, surpassing the combined total of the previous three years. The company is also reviewing over 300 potential new locations in the UK as part of its goal to optimise its estate, aiming for 180 full-line stores and 420 food halls by the end of the 2028 financial year.

In the East Midlands, M&S is focused on bolstering its distribution capacity. The company plans to replenish its Castle Donington warehouse, its main distribution centre for clothing and homeware, by August. Additionally, M&S is recovering from a cyber attack that disrupted its online operations, which led to a pause in customer orders for nearly seven weeks. The retailer aims to have its online platform fully operational within the next four weeks. The cyber attack is expected to cost the company £300m, though it is working to recover around £150m through cost management, insurance, and other trading actions.

More support to help Bassetlaw businesses cut their carbon footprint

Bassetlaw District Council is providing more financial support to small and medium-sized businesses looking to improve their environmental credentials and cut their carbon footprint. The Council has secured £80k from the government’s UK Shared Prosperity Funding to back decarbonisation projects which improve the natural environment whilst growing the local economy. Applications are now open for businesses to apply for a grant of up to £7,500 to invest in low carbon technologies across energy use, buildings and transport. Cllr Darrell Pulk, cabinet member for neighbourhoods, said: “We look forward to supporting businesses across the district make improvements which will help cut their carbon footprint, alongside their energy costs. “Our Vision 2040 is for Bassetlaw to become the greenest, most sustainable district to live and work, and this will help improve building efficiency for many local businesses.” Businesses have until 12noon on 21st July 2025 to submit their applications.

Harold Potter acquires 14,136 sq ft industrial property in Mansfield Woodhouse for HQ

FHP has completed the off-market sale of Millway at Old Mill Lane Industrial Estate, Mansfield Woodhouse, to Harold Potter. Harold Potter is one of the country’s leading heavy lifting equipment and overhead crane specialists and has taken on the site as its HQ. The property extends to 14,136ft² and comprises a detached warehouse with a two storey office block, car park, and yard. Surrounding occupiers include Howdens, Screwfix, Royal Mail and Jewsons. Anthony Barrowcliffe of FHP said: “It is always particularly great to sell a building off-market. This was not an easy sale due to having tenants in the offices to the front elevation, which we serviced notice on to obtain vacant possession of the building, alongside other various issues which we overcame throughout the process to sell this asset. “Our client (W.H Davies) were exceptionally good to work with and between myself and them we worked very hard to secure this sale. This transaction being a total team effort! “I wish Harold Potter Ltd all the success for the future and I know this building will be a fantastic HQ for their business.”

Unique Window Systems acquires counterpart’s assets

Unique Window Systems, the Leicester-based fabricator of UPVC and aluminium windows, doors, and curtain walling, has acquired the business and assets of AluFold Direct Ltd. Sunil Patel, joint managing director at Unique, said: “Having recently increased our turnover to £45 million and growing, we are in a strong position to invest in the business, and the acquisition of AluFold’s assets gives us the opportunity to further boost our aluminium capabilities. “With more companies being forced to close their doors in ongoing difficult market conditions, we are particularly pleased that the acquisition will help us grow further and retain capacity in the industry. “We have already celebrated 20 years in business this year, but we are not resting on our laurels. Our longevity makes us even more ambitious. “We want to continue to give our installers, and their homeowner customers, and the wider commercial market everything they need now and in the future, and as the demand for aluminium window and doors continues to grow, it’s a great time for us to strengthen our geographical footprint.” AluFold’s factory in Blackburn houses cutting-edge machinery including CNC machining centres, CNC 4-headed crimpers and dedicated assembly lines, providing Unique Window Systems with an opportunity to increase its presence in the North. Sunil continued: “We know that homeowner expectations are rising and to help our customers deliver on these expectations we need next generation capabilities and superior environmental performance across our entire UPVC and aluminium range. “Coupling the impressive assets from a well-respected brand such as AluFold Direct, with Unique’s considerable resources and expertise, builds on an already solid foundation of quality and performance. We are excited about this next stage of growth and the head start the acquisition gives us and our customers for 20 more successful years.” The deal was supported by Gunner Cooke LLP and Freeths LLP from a legal perspective and Torr Waterfield as accountants and business advisors.

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