Proposals to redevelop National Stone Centre in Derbyshire receive support from local community

Tess Egginton
-
0
Proposals to redevelop National Stone Centre in Derbyshire receive support from local community
A six-month-long public consultation process concerning proposals to redevelop the National Stone Centre (NSC) in Derbyshire has received overwhelmingly positive support from the local community. The virtual and physical consultation, led by the NSC’s partner the Institute of Quarrying (IQ), included attendance by representatives of the NSC and IQ at Wirksworth Market and the Matlock Go Green Event, as well as a meet and greet at the NSC. Feedback forms were also available online on the IQ website. Two further town hall-style meetings also took place at the NSC, with attendees drawn from across the local community. James Thorne is IQ’s Chief Executive Officer. He says: “This process was very much about listening to what people had to say and providing a channel via which all feedback could be delivered – positive and negative. “We had a good response to the consultation, both in person and in writing. This included insightful feedback on the project’s outline plans, which we have taken and used to inform a further iteration of the proposed development plans. “We are looking to make a significant contribution to the Derbyshire visitor economy and through doing so, inspire future generations to join an exciting sector to help tackle significant challenges, such as digitisation, the circular economy, zero carbon and skills of people in the industry today.” Throughout the consultation, IQ reassured regular visitors to the National Stone Centre that facilities such as the much-loved café will remain operational during the building works. Updates to the proposed plans are being incorporated into the full planning application which will be submitted to Derbyshire Dales District Council in due course.

WilSon Energy expands team with a raft of new appointments

Tess Egginton
-
0
WilSon Energy expands team with a raft of new appointments

Midlands-based WilSon Energy, a provider of fully integrated heating, metering, Pay as You Go, billing and bureau services for residential homes and commercial developments, has announced the expansion of its team with six new appointments.

The appointments follow a period of sustained growth for the Newark-based business, leading to a proactive recruitment drive to meet customer demand.

In addition to several new client wins, WilSon Energy has seen increased demand for its support with billing and bureau management services. Earlier this year, the firm also secured a large-scale Heating Interface Unit (HIU) service and maintenance contract for a major utility provider.

The six new recruits will be working across the whole business.

Joining the customer support team is Adam Waby, who returns to the business, focusing on supporting its field engineers and internal technical support, as well as Emma Tomlinson. Emma also previously worked at WilSon around five years ago in the billing and bureau department and has now returned to the business with renewed enthusiasm after getting married and having two children.

Sami Zaqiri has been recruited to the role of field service engineer. Having worked extensively as an HIU service engineer for several years, Sami has in-depth sector experience as well as general plumbing and heating knowledge. James Hawley has also joined the business as a field service engineer and similarly to Sami, has also worked in this area extensively, after a career in the military.

Shannon Haywood has joined the post pay billing and bureau team again bringing with her a wealth of customer service skills. Chris Rathore has taken up a sales role and is responsible for new billing and bureau and pre-payment contracts. In addition to this he works extensively with new utility connections, fiscal meters and energy procurement.

Finally, Steve Burn moves to head of mechanical and electrical project management. For the last couple of years, he has worked successfully delivering a number of multi-utility projects in the residential sector.

Andy Wilkinson, CEO at WilSon Energy, said: “WilSon Energy has seen significant growth in the last 12 months with new contract wins in Heat Network and District Heating schemes across a wide portfolio of residential and commercial developments. We have also seen growth in our Energy Billing and Bureau solutions and these appointments are testament to that success and our proactive approach to meeting customer demand for our extensive range of services.

“We are pleased to bring these new staff members on board at an exciting time for the business and wish them a long and rewarding career with us.”

Ashby property firm makes key IT appointment to drive growth

Tess Egginton
-
0
Ashby property firm makes key IT appointment to drive growth

A property consultancy has appointed a new leader of its IT operations to help drive the firm’s ongoing growth.

Fisher German has appointed Carl Stirland as IT director, where he will oversee more than 20 in-house professionals in teams specialising in software development, project management, business change, IT infrastructure and IT service management.

Carl joins Fisher German with 30 years of IT experience across the construction, housebuilding, engineering, manufacturing, and distribution sectors.

This included 20 years of service at a multi-million-pound construction and development group, where he played an instrumental role in laying the digital foundations for key projects to be carried out efficiently, ranging from supermarket developments through to mass housebuilding.

He also spent two years at a FTSE 250 construction firm to help them overhaul their cloud migrations, network, and telecom systems for around 6,000 users.

Carl has recently worked for a leading multi-national plc supplying insulation, roofing, commercial interiors, and specialist construction products as the UK IT business partner to develop the firm’s technological efficiency across 580 distribution centres and trade counters.

Carl said: “Joining a progressive firm such as Fisher German is a brilliant challenge for me to be able to put my three decades of IT experience into practice to help accelerate the firm’s ongoing growth.

“I am passionate about working for a business that is focused on providing great client satisfaction, and my role is to ensure that Fisher German’s IT platforms enable the business to maintain this and improve even further.

“Another key aspect of my role is striking the balance between future proofing the business’s IT portfolio – both for our colleagues and through the services we provide to clients – whilst also ensuring the company’s digital and operational strategies are aligned.”

Carl, who is also a chartered engineer and chartered IT professional, will be based at the firm’s Ashby-de-la-Zouch headquarters with nationwide responsibility for developing the firm’s IT capabilities across its 29 offices.

Managing partner, Andrew Bridge, added: “We are excited for Carl to join us and to oversee our continued investment in sophisticated and market-leading IT solutions for our colleagues, to help deliver a first-class client service.”

Plans approved for apartments at former Nottingham lawn bowls club

Tess Egginton
-
0
Plans approved for apartments at former Nottingham lawn bowls club
Plans to transform a former lawn bowls club on Addison Street, Nottingham, have been approved.
The proposals, from Unitech Plus Ltd, would see the construction of 29 one, two, and three-bed apartments. The development would predominantly form three buildings which would front Addison Street. In addition the original three storey element of the pavilion would be retained and converted and two storey extensions added to the east and west.
It is proposed that the area that currently makes up the bowling green would be used as a communal garden area for future residents.
11 parking spaces and 30 cycle storage spaces are planned.

Businesses react following Liz Truss’s resignation as Prime Minister

Tess Egginton
-
0
Businesses react following Liz Truss’s resignation as Prime Minister
Following the resignation of Liz Truss as Prime Minister, seeing her become the shortest-serving PM in history, East Midlands business leaders are reacting. Mike Staton, director of Mansfield-based Staton Mortgages, said: “It’s hard to imagine it but it’s pretty safe to say Liz Truss is leaving the country in a worse position than she found it. If ever there was going to be a definition of the grass isn’t always greener, Liz Truss has owned it. Liz Truss has made one correct decision in her role of Prime Minister, and she made that today by handing in her resignation. “However, the fine print needs needs to be checked so that there is no possibility that she can perform another U-turn on this decision. How she ever got voted in shows how much of a farce the current system is. Under no circumstances should another Prime Minister be allowed to have this sort of power without being voted in by the public. Ladies and Gentleman, Liz Truss has left the building, and Thank God.” Imran Hussain, director at Nottingham-based Harmony Financial Services, said: “Truss and her party have made a mockery of our country and we are simply left with no choice but to have a general election now or be left rudderless moving into the new year. And it’s shaping up to be a brutal 2023.” Lewis Shaw, founder of Mansfield-based Shaw Financial Services, said: “I’m generally not speechless, and right now is no exception. We need a general election. We cannot have more of this circus. Every day we look more like a banana republic led by donkeys. Everyone I talk to agrees: let’s have an election get it over and done with once and for all, and inject some democracy back into the UK. The game is up for the Tories now; if they can make it as painless a transition as possible because that’s the only honourable thing they can do now, I’m sure we’d all be grateful.” Tony Danker, CBI director-general, said: “The politics of recent weeks have undermined the confidence of people, businesses, markets and global investors in Britain. That must now come to an end if we are to avoid yet more harm to households and firms. “Stability is key. The next Prime Minister will need to act to restore confidence from day one. “They will need to deliver a credible fiscal plan for the medium term as soon as possible, and a plan for the long-term growth of our economy.” Adam Bamford, COO of Derby-based corporate gift firm, Colleague Box, said: “Another day on the hamster wheel of British politics. What is the point in the time and expense of another leadership race? The Tories are a complete shambles with infighting at every turn. Until we have a general election we are stuck with this cycle of unending mediocrity at the top with jobs for mates. Get us a general election quickly and let us have a say.” Rachel Hayward, Managing Director of the Derby-based business bids and tenders specialist, Ask the Chameleon, said: “It was clear she could not carry on, as there were no avenues or U-turns left. I am frankly embarrassed by our Government. What has happened to this country? This is a drama even the writers of The Crown couldn’t cook up. So what next? Or who? Can we PLEASE choose someone with credibility and a plan? Oh wait.” East Midlands Chamber (Derbyshire, Nottinghamshire, Leicestershire) Chief Executive Scott Knowles said: “One of the roles of Government is to create an environment where businesses can thrive in order to create jobs, stimulate economic investment and generate wealth. “This endless saga of political instability is anything but that and, once again, businesses are left to pick up the pieces. “For months, they have had to endure a relentless cycle of uncertainty that has created a zero-confidence environment, hampering their ability to plan ahead and invest. “They can at least take some consolation from the fact they won’t have to sit through another lengthy leadership election. But once a new Prime Minister is in place within the next week, they will expect the chosen individual to work with firms to find solutions to the increasing pile of challenges they face as the crisis in the cost of doing business deepens.”

Liz Truss resigns as Prime Minister

Michael Fisher
-
0
Liz Truss resigns as Prime Minister
Liz Truss has resigned from her post as Prime Minister, making her the shortest-serving PM in history. The markets have thus far been quiet, but the value of the pound did rise immediately after the announcement, signaling the lack of faith in Truss’ leadership. There is no news yet on who will take over, or who will throw their hats into the ring, but Jeremy Hunt has claimed that he will not be running for leadership. Labour leader Keir Starmer has demanded an election.

Nottingham modern slavery experts to advise UK construction industry

Tess Egginton
-
0
Nottingham modern slavery experts to advise UK construction industry
Modern slavery experts at the University of Nottingham are part of a new partnership to promote ethical labour in the UK construction industry. The ‘Alliance against Exploitation’ brings together the University’s Rights Lab; SCAPE, one of the UK’s leading public sector procurement authorities; the Gangmasters and Labour Abuse Authority; modern slavery charity Unseen; and Achilles, a leader in supply chain risk and performance management. The partnership has been formed to eradicate modern slavery and labour exploitation across the construction sector by sharing intelligence, identifying emerging trends and committing to robust auditing procedures. In interviews with 1,200 UK construction workers, almost half said they had not received written terms and conditions of employment while almost one in three admitted using non-standard evidence of right to work documentation to gain employment. The interviews, conducted by Achilles across the industry, also revealed four out of five workers had not been spoken to about modern slavery. Dr Alexander Trautrims, associate director at the Rights Lab and professor of Supply Chain Management, said: “This newly formed alliance will help to make real progress in addressing modern slavery in the construction sector through public sector procurement processes. Modern slavery continues to be a significant management challenge across the construction supply chain and collaborative initiatives like this are key to developing the knowledge that is required for progress.”

“Another robust quarter” for Dunelm

Tess Egginton
-
0
“Another robust quarter” for Dunelm

Dunelm, the Leicestershire-headquartered homewares retailer, has reported “robust trading” in an update for its first quarter.

The company said it was “pleased” with the performance during the 13-week period ended 1 October 2022, against the backdrop of a challenging environment.

Sales of £357m were down 8% year on year, which the firm said was expected, given a very strong comparative period, with Q1 last year benefitting from pent up demand and the firm’s rescheduled summer sale.

Compared to pre-pandemic, however, total sales grew by 36%.

Digital sales made up 33% of total sales in the quarter, in line with the same period last year.

Nick Wilkinson, Chief Executive Officer, said: “It has been another robust quarter for Dunelm against a very strong comparative period, which illustrates the strength and resilience of our business model and the appeal of our market-leading offer.

“Dunelm has emerged from the last two years as a bigger, better business, with total sales up 36% against the same period pre-Covid. We have benefitted from the commitment, expertise and adaptability of our colleagues and supplier partners – the same qualities that are serving the business as we navigate the current inflationary challenges.

“As we enter what will clearly be a challenging winter for consumers, our absolute focus remains on making every pound count for everyone, through a tight grip on operations. We will continue to offer outstanding value at all price points, so our customers can make their own choices around adapting to the economic backdrop. This focus on value has seen Dunelm successfully navigate previous periods of economic uncertainty.

“The landscape is a demanding one, but we feel both energised and confident in our ability to grow market share as the 1st choice for UK homelovers.”

“Solid” third quarter for Travis Perkins

Tess Egginton
-
0
“Solid” third quarter for Travis Perkins
Travis Perkins has hailed a “solid performance” during its third quarter, with its Merchanting businesses outperforming their markets and an improved performance in Toolstation. According to a Q3 2022 trading update for the three months to 30 September 2022, the Northampton-based group delivered “resilient” trading with total sales growth of 10.7% and like-for-like sales growth of 7.4%. Nick Roberts, Chief Executive, said: “The group has delivered a solid performance during the third quarter with the Merchanting businesses again outperforming their markets and an improved performance in Toolstation. We continue to benefit from our diverse end market exposure from small independent builders through to large contractors delivering national infrastructure projects. “During the second half of the year we have seen growing macroeconomic uncertainty. We are focused on maintaining cost discipline in our businesses and the actions taken to simplify our operating structure in recent years have created the flexibility to adapt to changing market conditions. “All of our businesses see opportunities to further develop their propositions to meet our different customers’ needs, as they seek to navigate an increasingly complex construction landscape, characterised by new environmental and safety legislation and a commitment to deliver against net zero targets. We remain confident that our market-leading businesses, backed by focused capital allocation, a strong balance sheet and significant strategic growth opportunities, leave us well placed to outperform in our markets.”

Triumph Motorcycles Ltd expands opportunities for Loughborough students through generous philanthropic donation

Steve Fisher
-
0
Triumph Motorcycles Ltd expands opportunities for Loughborough students through generous philanthropic donation

The largest UK-owned motorcycle manufacturing company has provided philanthropic funding to Loughborough University to support its students.

Triumph Motorcycles Ltd has provided £45,000 to support the Student Success Academy and three Opportunity Scholars. Originally made possible through the generous donation of alumnus Chris Gill in 2021, the Student Success Academy aims to help students achieve their goals during their time at University by providing a holistic package of support through initiatives including Academic Success Coaching, Micro-Internships and the Future Black Talent Programme. Additionally, Triumph will be supporting three students who receive cash bursaries through the Opportunity Scholarship. These scholarships are allocated to UK students living in areas of low participation in higher education, areas of socio-economic deprivation, or those entitled to Free School Meals. The Scholarship eases the financial burden to those wanting to attend university by providing them with £3,000 per year for three years. The initiative has seen a record number of Scholarships awarded, with a cohort of 53 for the 22/23 academic year. Triumph supports scholars who began their university experience this month and are studying Product Design Engineering and Automotive Engineering.

Rolls-Royce and Alder Fuels join forces to fuel the race to net zero

Tess Egginton
-
0
Rolls-Royce and Alder Fuels join forces to fuel the race to net zero
Rolls-Royce has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with Alder Fuels, a clean tech developer and greencrude producer, to further test Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) as it makes the next step on its journey to commercial scalability. The SAF, which has been produced based on Alder Fuels’ proprietary greencrude technology, is being readied for global rollout as a drop-in replacement to petroleum-based jet fuel and will be a critical tool for decarbonising the skies. The testing, which will include flight tests on a Rolls-Royce Pearl engine, will evaluate the energy efficiency, emissions criteria, and low-carbon credentials of the SAF produced from Alder Greencrude (AGC) and is part of Rolls-Royce’s ambition to play a fundamental role in enabling the sectors in which it operates to achieve net zero carbon by 2050. Frank Moesta, SVP Strategy & Future Programmes – Business Aviation, Rolls-Royce, said: “The use of Sustainable Aviation Fuel as a low-emission solution and its global commercial deployment are essential to the decarbonisation of medium to long-haul air travel. While we are also working on electrification, hybrid-electric and hydrogen technologies as long-term alternatives, rapid decarbonisation is within reach through this critical pathway. Through our partnership with Alder Fuels, we are taking the next steps on our journey to net zero and are committed supporters of the UN Race to Zero goal of 10% SAF use across aviation by 2030.” “At Alder, we are on a path to transform energy on the global stage and partnership is key to our vision. As a pioneer in both industrial technology and sustainable aviation, Rolls-Royce will play a leading role in decarbonizing the aerospace industry. Their name is synonymous with the best of engineering,” said Bryan Sherbacow, president and CEO of Alder Fuels. “Our hope is that this collaboration will not only mark an important milestone for the decarbonisation of aviation, but that it will send a strong global signal to the market that the future of sustainable flight is here and the time to transition is now.” Alder Fuels uses sustainable biomass such as regenerative grasses, forest residues, and agricultural waste products to create low-carbon Alder Greencrude (AGC) that can be converted into a drop-in SAF using existing bio and petroleum refinery infrastructure. The process, which has been developed in close partnership with the US Department of Energy’s National Renewable Energy Laboratory, can achieve greenhouse gas reductions of over 80 percent compared to fossil-based jet fuel. The engine tests will assess the performance of AGC-derived SAF compared to fossil-based jet fuel to further support its performance as a drop-in replacement for traditional jet fuel and generate critical data for the development of a 100% SAF specification by ASTM International. In addition, the SAF will undergo a full lifecycle and criteria emissions assessment, and the data associated with this assessment will be transparently reported to advance global decarbonisation efforts. Rolls-Royce has previously committed to ensuring all its Trent and Business Aviation engines are compatible with 100% SAF by 2023. All Trent and Business Aviation engines are already certified and ready to operate on a 50% SAF blend with traditional fossil-based aviation jet fuel.

Plans submitted for further 107,000 sq ft of industrial and warehousing space at Markham Vale

Tess Egginton
-
0
Plans submitted for further 107,000 sq ft of industrial and warehousing space at Markham Vale
Markham Vale is set for further expansion, with detailed plans submitted for four buildings totalling 107,250 sq ft of industrial and warehousing space. Markham Vale is a 200-acre joint venture development between property developer HBD and Derbyshire County Council. It is one of the region’s flagship industrial schemes, attracting new businesses and creating thousands of new jobs. The development plans for Plot 6 will see the construction of four new units targeting BREEAM ‘Excellent’ standards alongside dedicated parking, electric vehicle charging bays and space for bicycles. Richard Hinds, development surveyor at HBD, said: “It is great to get plans underway for this next stage of development at Markham Vale. “It’s a very successful industrial and logistics location, which means demand has remained high for new space – our robust financial backing and our strong track record for delivery means that we are able to continue progressing new schemes throughout the more challenging periods for the economy, injecting much-needed Grade A space into the market.” Derbyshire County Council’s cabinet member for clean growth and regeneration, councillor Tony King, said: “Plans for four new buildings at Markham Vale is a strong signal from our property partners, HBD that the site will continue to attract a wide range of businesses. “Markham Vale plays a key role in helping to deliver on our commitment to building a strong, diverse, and green economy by creating jobs for local people and attracting local, national, and international businesses. “We look forward to seeing the plans progress and welcoming more businesses to the site in the future.” HBD recently instructed M1 Agency as joint agent alongside JLL for the delivery of the remainder of Markham Vale; 18 acres of serviced development land with the potential to deliver circa 250,000 sq ft of additional employment space for growing businesses.

Monthly fall in corporate insolvencies masking true economic picture

Tess Egginton
-
0
Monthly fall in corporate insolvencies masking true economic picture
A month-on-month fall in the number of corporate insolvencies in England and Wales is unlikely to be a true reflection of the financial health of local businesses, warns the Midlands branch of insolvency and restructuring trade body R3. National figures published by the government’s Insolvency Service show that the number of companies entering insolvency fell to 1,679 in September 2022, a 13.5% decrease compared to the previous month’s total. According to R3 Midlands, when a longer-term view of the national data is taken it demonstrates more accurately what may be happening with businesses in the region. In comparison to September 2021’s figure of 1,453, corporate insolvencies have increased by 15.6%, and this month’s total is also 11.3% higher than September 2019’s figure of 1,508. R3 Midlands chair Eddie Williams, who is also a partner at PwC in the East Midlands, said: “September’s decrease in corporate insolvencies is due to a drop in Creditors’ Voluntary Liquidations, while the year-on-year increase has been caused mainly by a rise in Compulsory Liquidations, which is probably due to the end of legislation around winding-up petitions. “The increase in corporate insolvencies between September 2019 and September 2022, on the other hand, can be attributed to a significant increase in the number of Creditors’ Voluntary Liquidations. “The triple whammy of the withdrawal of Covid support, the current economic turbulence and the challenging business climate are key factors in directors feeling that they are unable to continue trading and opting to close their business voluntarily. “Currently, local companies are operating against a backdrop of mounting uncertainty, which is impacting heavily on their financial health. A volatile pound, a decline in consumer confidence and lower household spending have all contributed to weaker economic growth. “With conditions likely to worsen before they improve, business owners need to remain alert and seek advice at the first sign of financial distress. “Most insolvency practitioners in the Midlands region will offer a free hour’s consultation to a potential client so that they can understand more about their business, its circumstances and outline what options might be available.”

Lettings of premium new build units boosts Leicester’s trade counter offering

Tess Egginton
-
0
Lettings of premium new build units boosts Leicester’s trade counter offering
Following pre let deals negotiated by joint marketing agents Andrew + Ashwell and APB, four new tenants now occupy the recently completed trade counter units at Parker Drive Trade Park, Leicester. North of Leicester city centre, the 3.8 acre site forms part of one of Leicester’s most popular industrial estates. Parker Drive Trade Park was redeveloped from a former redundant industrial site and has become a local hub for warehouse and trade counter users, including B&Q and Travis Perkins, operating close by. The new units of 5,000 to 8,000 sq ft deliver high quality modern warehouse accommodation and are adjacent to the first phase 35,000 sq ft premises already occupied by Selco. All four units on the second and final phase were pre-let while being developed speculatively by Trafalgar Global. Trade kitchen and joinery supplier Howdens Joinery was the first to complete, with the company taking 8,000 sq ft. First launched in 1995, Howdens has more than 700 trade outlets across the UK and Europe. The new premises will further enhance customer service. Leicester-based PVCU window and door manufacturer Unique Window Systems Ltd – also with larger premises nearby – has taken 8,500 sq ft to help expand business with trade, commercial and new house build markets. City Electrical Factors Ltd (CEF) has taken 5,000 sq ft; extending the company’s broad network of wholesale distribution outlets for the electrical trade. Established over 70 years ago in Coventry, CEF has 400 outlets in the UK – almost twice as many as the nearest competitor – with the latest expansion aiming to further boost service. Relocating to modern bespoke premises, another leading electrical wholesaler, Rexel, completes the lineup, also taking 5,000 sq ft, in providing local electricians, contractors and industrial organisations with high quality electrical products, site supplies and project solutions. Geoff Gibson, A+A consultant, said the success of the final phase at Parker Drive Trade Park illustrates continued strong demand for modern, purpose-built accommodation. “The dearth of high quality modern new-build trade premises has long been an issue in Leicester. Parker Drive has proven to be a particularly sought after location for trade counter activity and it is heartening to know that when we do see new development, buildings are snapped up by substantial companies able and keen to expand.”

Nottingham museum receives £8k to help fund new shop front

Tess Egginton
-
0
Nottingham museum receives £8k to help fund new shop front
Nottingham-based Framework Knitters Museum has received funds to upgrade its newly established café and shop – Parker’s Yard – with a discrete and secure reception area. The funds for the project, which will begin and complete this winter, have been awarded through the Museum Development East Midlands (MDEM)’s Recovery and Reboot Grants, and also includes core funding and a donation from the Friends of the Ruddington Framework Knitters Museum. The Recovery and Reboot Grants have been designed to help museums in the East Midlands to rebuild and strengthen their offer to customers, particularly where they’re implementing new approaches and ideas, in response to the impact of the pandemic. The £8,335 project will redefine the shop front and will see the installation of a reception desk for point of sale and display areas, which will allow items to securely and safely remain on display when the shop is closed but the café is open. Sarah Godfrey, manager of the museum, said: “Our recent building project, Parker’s Yard, allowed us to introduce a new reception, café and shop area, to help improve the visitor experience. However, as the shop and café have different operating hours and share the same space, some challenges did arise. “Thanks to the MDEM funding and a generous donation from the Friends of the museum, we are now able to create a dedicated shop sub area, where people can purchase items and locally crafted goods can permanently be on display in a secure unit. “We’ll be able to make better use of the reception area, extend and improve our shop offering and enable the café to open outside of the museum hours, which will help us to increase our revenue, as well as provide increased employment and volunteering opportunities for local residents.”

High demand for places as more new businesses inducted at Loughborough start-up incubator

Tess Egginton
-
0
High demand for places as more new businesses inducted at Loughborough start-up incubator

Twenty-four new businesses have been accepted onto the autumn cohort for Leicestershire start-up incubator LUinc.

A total of 81 founders expressed interest in applying for one of 20 available places. The cohort was extended to 24 members.

Since 2011, the incubator has worked with Loughborough University graduates and researchers on developing new businesses.

Last year, its services were extended to founders from outside of the campus as part of a partnership with the Leicester and Leicestershire Enterprise Partnership (LLEP) and Charnwood Borough Council.

The project aims to develop a new generation of local businesses which are ‘fit for the future’ in their agility, focus on emerging markets, and commitment to scale-up and growth.

LUinc. provides a six-month programme aiming to increase productivity and job creation by incubating innovative new businesses.

Of the 24, fifteen local entrepreneurs were accepted for the project’s third cohort after applying from outside of the university ecosystem. The remaining nine are graduate start-ups and research spinouts.

Members benefit from free weekly meetings, one-to-one coaching, structured training, and roundtable discussions delivered by a range of experienced experts and entrepreneurs.

The first two cohorts helped launch 12 new businesses, supported 304 individuals through events or 1-2-1s, and steered 24 businesses to enterprise or start-up support.

Sirius Transformation joined LUinc. in the Spring of 2022 after making an initial inquiry through the Careers and Enterprise Hub in Loughborough town centre.

Founded in late 2021 by former 3M employees James Whyley and Steven Sleath, Sirius is a manufacturing process improvement consultancy based on its founders’ extensive regulated industry experience. It now operates UK-wide.

James, from Loughborough, said: “We’ve gained a lot from the camaraderie with fellow entrepreneurs and also having that natural rhythm to our working days that we had when working within a corporate environment but might have lost had we decided to start up from home.”

Steven, from Syston, said: “We have gone from an idea to a fully functioning business while part of LUinc.”

Pete Hitchings, incubator manager, said: “Bringing together businesses from the University and the local area has grown a diverse community of business owners who are really invested in helping one another to succeed.”

Dr Nik Kotecha OBE, chair of the LLEP Innovation Board, said: “It’s essential for any economy to have productive and innovative small businesses and entrepreneurs.

“Programmes such as those at LUinc. are retaining and developing bright new business ideas, which is so important in the wake of the pandemic.”

Cllr Jonathan Morgan, leader of Charnwood Borough Council, said: “It is great to see so many start-up companies seeking support from LUinc. and we look forward to seeing them grow and develop in the future.

“As a Council, we’re committed to creating a thriving economy; small businesses are often central to that and that’s why we are keen to support them.”

The ongoing project was part-funded with £314,000 from a Covid-19 Recovery Fund, created using Enterprise Zone Business Rates.

LUinc. is now accepting expressions of interest for its Spring 2023 cohort.

New Business Gateway report reveals needs of Leicester’s Black Business Community

Tess Egginton
-
0
New Business Gateway report reveals needs of Leicester’s Black Business Community
A new report commissioned by the LLEP Business Gateway provides a blueprint for future support for the Black Business Community in the city and identifies some key challenges. The main issues include finding and securing funding; a lack of networks for support, and awareness of the business support already available. The report was produced by University of Leicester intern, Lara Anubi, following a number of interviews with leading figures in the Black Business Community locally.   A new research report has highlighted the challenges faced by Leicester’s Black Business Community in starting and sustaining businesses across the city. It was commissioned by the Business Gateway to ensure that all local businesses are made aware of the support available to them regardless of ethnic origin or any other characteristic. Sue Tilley, Chief Executive of the LLEP and acting Business Gateway manager, explained: “We know that we support a lot of SMEs classified as white British and also a lot of Asian businesses, particularly in the textiles sector, but we felt that the black community were not using our services as much. We wanted to find out if this was because we needed to communicate differently or because we need to adapt our offer.” The contributors included Annie Otum of Black Owned Leicester, Mark Esho MBE of Easy Internet, Pamela Sharpe of Mela & Sharpe, Dorothy Francis MBE of CASE, Byron Dixon OBE CEO of Micro-Fresh, Chintu Lamba of Initiated Nation, and Abdikayf Farah representing the Somali business community. Lara Anubi who undertook the interviews commented: “It was fascinating for me as a young black woman to talk to these inspiring people and identify the common issues that need to be addressed if more black businesses are going to thrive in Leicester.” The key findings in the report include:
  • The black community is Leicester’s fastest growing ethnic community.
  • The main communication issue appears to be that large parts of the community are not aware of the support that is already available from the Business Gateway and others.
  • There is a lack of active business networks for the Black Business Community in Leicester.
  • Funding is a very big issue for this community. There is a lack of generational wealth (i.e. help from parents) and a lack of ‘financial education’ about where to find the right type of funding.
  • Black enterprises typically only survive for 3 years as opposed to the 7 years for Leicester’s average businesses.
  • Black female businesspeople are under-represented in this community.
  • The local Somali business landscape is far more varied than the black business community in Leicester in general in terms of its variety.
The Business Gateway is now proposing a number of actions to provide support to this community and these include:
  • Increasingly engagement where gaps exist. For example, the Business Gateway have agreed to provide a workshop for Somali founders to support the existing business network.
  • Speaking to banks or other finance providers about finance pathways. This includes local grant providers which would help address the issues around taking on debt.
  • Ensuring business support information is cascaded via wider networks, including those highlighted in the report.
  • Engaging more frequently with business leaders in the community around strategy and inclusivity.
  • Ensuring BAME businesses are reached by forthcoming new LLEP and Business Gateway business support programmes.
Consideration is also being given to commissioned work to:
  • Reignite networking and peer support for local black owned businesses.
  • A report on finance options specifically aimed at the black community.
  • Workshops in a highlighted area, for example financial literacy.
Sue Tilley commented: “Several of the contributors to the report very kindly offered to help us with networking events and other activities and we would strongly encourage anyone from this community to make sure they get involved; building your network is one of the best things you can do at the start of your journey to launching your own business. “We are also going to make sure that all the information points used by ethnic communities get regular information from the Business Gateway so that they can refer their clients to our free impartial support.” The full report is at: https://bit.ly/3MIbepI

Nottingham healthtech company raises £3.4m to transform mental health diagnoses

Tess Egginton
-
0
Nottingham healthtech company raises £3.4m to transform mental health diagnoses
Early stage Healthtech company, BlueSkeye AI Ltd, has secured £3.4m in funding to pursue its mission to improve people’s quality of life through the use of its proprietary face and voice analysis technology. The round was led by XTX Ventures, which invested alongside Foresight Group (through The Midlands Engine Investment Fund), Praetura Ventures (through Praetura’s GMC Life Sciences Fund), the University of Nottingham and a consortium of high-net-worth individuals. As leaders in Artificial Technology (AI), which understands mood and mental wellbeing, the Nottingham-based company’s solutions are uniquely placed to serve the rapidly growing needs of the Digital Health & Wellbeing and Automotive sectors. In the UK alone, one in four people suffer from mental health issues at some stage of their lives, at an estimated cost of £117.9 billion to the economy and from 2024 all new cars sold in the EU must have camera-based driver safety monitoring systems installed. BlueSkeye AI’s trademark blending of advanced research into expressive human behaviour with specialist expertise in computer vision, machine learning and AI has many important use cases. In Digital Health and Wellbeing, BlueSkeye AI is poised to transform the diagnosis of mental health conditions and improve care, whilst in the Automotive industry it will significantly enhance safety and wellbeing for the drivers and passengers of vehicles. One key technology created by BlueSkeye is the B-Social Software Development Kit (SDK) that can be used to give social robots, virtual assistants, and any other interactive interface the ability to read a person’s facial expressions, head actions, and social gaze. The funding will further accelerate BlueSkeye AI’s expansion across both clinical and non-clinical health and wellbeing markets to transform patient pathways at scale. This will support service providers to address the global worldwide need for early diagnosis of mental health issues such as depression and anxiety, and the development of new products to support accurate digital diagnosis in the health and wellbeing sector. As part of this investment, BlueSkeye AI will expand its activities with a physical presence in the North-West of England. Founded in 2019, BlueSkeye AI is a spin-out from The University of Nottingham’s School of Computer Science. It was established by professor Michel Valstar (CEO) and Dr Anthony Brown (CTO), and chief machine learning and software engineer Dr Timur Almaev. Professor Michel Valstar, co-founder and CEO at BlueSkeye AI, said: “The demand for alternative pathways to access mental healthcare is enormous, and continues to grow by the day. “We’re committed to disrupting traditional approaches to healthcare to help improve the quality of people’s lives, and we’re particularly focused on the perinatal mental health sector. “With the support of XTX Ventures, Foresight Group and Praetura Ventures, we’ll strengthen the rollout of new clinical trials and product development, and champion the benefits of technology for reinforcing healthcare provision on a national, regional and global basis.”

University of Leicester unveils £150m student village

Tess Egginton
-
0
University of Leicester unveils £150m student village
The University of Leicester will officially unveil the city’s newest multi-million pound neighbourhood next week. A special event to mark the opening of the University’s £150m Freemen’s development, located in Welford Road, will take place on Monday 24 October. The landmark regeneration project has seen derelict halls of residence and an open air car park transformed into a high-tech centre for teaching, working and living. At its heart is the four-storey Sir Bob Burgess Building, named after the University’s former late Vice-Chancellor, which comprises two large lecture theatres, flexible teaching spaces and a state of the art space for staff to work, meet and relax. The building is a fitting tribute to Sir Bob, who presided over one of the University’s most successful periods between 1999 and 2014. The site also includes accommodation for 1,200 students, a social hub including a food outlet and bar and a 555-space multi-storey car park. The project has also seen the sensitive refurbishment and extension of the Grade II-listed Freemen’s Cottages as the centrepiece of the scheme. The new buildings are set within an impressive landscaping scheme of tree-lined walking routes, wildflower planting and gardens, with two generous public spaces providing a focal point. Kerry Law, deputy vice-chancellor (Professional Services), said: “Freemen’s is the realisation of years of careful planning to deliver the very highest quality environment for our students to live and learn in. “We have been delighted with the positive reaction of both students and staff as they settle in to their new home, which extends our vibrant city campus. “Freemen’s doesn’t only deliver first-class facilities for students and colleagues, but also provides benefits for the public, including pleasant open spaces and safer routes for pedestrians and cyclists. “The regeneration of a tired site into a landmark new neighbourhood is something the University and city can be very proud of, as the University embarks on its second century.” Freemen’s is powered by sustainable technologies, with the expectation more than 80,000 kWh of solar power will be generated each year. Freemen’s was delivered by the University, equity partner and constructor EQUANS and funding partner Equitix. The development was carried out in tandem with Leicester City Council’s work to create a much-needed link road connecting the east and west of the city, which includes sustainable transport improvements to junctions, crossings and infrastructure for walking and cycling. Contractor EQUANS was responsible for the highways upgrades around the Freemen’s Common site, in Welford Road and Putney Road.

Growing Derbyshire company acquires popular local pub

Tess Egginton
-
0
Growing Derbyshire company acquires popular local pub
Specialist business property adviser Christie & Co has completed on the freehold sale of The Blue Stoops in Dronfield, to growing Derbyshire-based pub company, Chilled Pubs. Sold on behalf of the True North Brew Co, the busy village pub and restaurant which underwent a refurbishment in 2017 is set in the heart of Dronfield and comprises a large internal bar, restaurant and function space, and a generous 140-cover beer garden. The business boasts a healthy average annual turnover of £929,250 and features additional upstairs space with potential for accommodation or additional trading areas, which was a great appeal to prospective buyers. Previous owner, Kane Yeardley of True North Brew Co says: “I will miss The Blue Stoops greatly, having invested lots of time and money into the property over many years. However, the time was right for me to reduce the True North portfolio, using Christie & Co’s experienced assistance and industry relationships in order to successfully sell. I wish Chilled Pubs all the best with their purchase.” Matt Hill, business agent – pubs & restaurants at Christie & Co, who handled the sale, says: “I’m thrilled to have completed on The Blue Stoops after running a fully open marketing process, where we had very strong interest from national and regional pub companies, off the £975,000 asking price. The pub is ideally positioned along Dronfield’s High Street, where trade will remain strong and was a rare opportunity to acquire a highly profitable village pub-restaurant. The successful sale is also a good sign in the market that interest remains high for quality freehold premises.” Chilled Pubs will now operate a total of six pubs across the region. The Blue Stoops is one of 14 pubs in the True North Brew Co estate, which has been established for 30 years. The group is currently working with Christie & Co to reduce their portfolio to a total of 10 sites and will then look to re-invest in a new larger site. Other sites currently on the market with Christie & Co include The Milton Arms, The York and The Old House.
1...411412413...560Page 412 of 560