| Region | % citing a lack of available talent in their region |
| South West |
53% |
| Thames Valley |
47% |
| West Midlands |
41% |
| Yorkshire and the Humber |
40% |
| East Anglia |
39% |
| East Midlands |
37% |
| Central South |
33% |
| North East |
30% |
| South East |
24% |
| Greater London |
23% |
| North West |
22% |
Skill shortages threaten to derail optimism around ‘levelling-up’
UK business leaders are optimistic that the Government’s levelling-up agenda can realistically be delivered but the so-called ‘skills gap’ is proving a challenge for the regions outside of London and the South East, according to new research from accountancy and business advisory firm, BDO.
The survey of 500 leaders of medium-sized businesses across England and Scotland, reveals that almost all respondents (94%) believe the Government will deliver on its levelling-up promises in the next decade. More than half (54%) say that this could realistically be achieved within the next three years.
However, despite optimism around the Government’s agenda, access to skilled people may be a threat to the growth of regional businesses. All those surveyed reported some form of staff shortages, with a third saying that their biggest recruitment challenge is a lack of available talent in their region.
Looking at the comparison throughout the UK, those worst affected by regional skills shortages are outside of London and the South East and areas heavily reliant on the manufacturing sector.
More than a third of manufacturing businesses nationwide cited staff shortages as the number one issue affecting their ability to operate at normal levels, with 40% of manufacturers unable to fill their apprenticeship positions.
In a bid to reduce the so-called ‘skills gap’ a £3.8bn investment in skills and education was announced as part of the recent Budget and spending review, including £170m allocated to funding apprenticeships.
The Chancellor also announced that £1.7bn of the £4.8bn levelling-up fund has been allocated to more than 100 small-scale infrastructure projects throughout the UK. These include a ‘growth zone’ in Derbyshire, the redevelopment of Leicester train station and transport investments in Liverpool, Plymouth, Newcastle and Nottingham.
Ed Dwan, partner at BDO, said: “After experiencing a period of great uncertainty, it is pleasing to see that business leaders from across the country are optimistic that real progress on the ‘levelling-up’ agenda will happen in the not too distant future.
“The investment in shovel-ready projects announced as part of the levelling-up fund will be a welcome boost to those areas that need them the most. However, it is clear there is more to levelling-up than just transport and infrastructure, and the Government must not overlook this.
“Skills and staff shortages are being reported across the board and remain a large barrier to the growth of many businesses, particularly of those in some in the regions outside of London and the South East.
“The newly announced £3.8bn skills investment from the Government is crucial in order to ensure the skills gap doesn’t widen, but there is no quick fix. As businesses navigate complex challenges post-Brexit and pandemic, the Government must listen to their needs and implement long-term policies that will have an impact nationwide in order to truly ‘level-up’ the UK.”
Further delays hit new Daventry cinema
The opening of Daventry’s new cinema has been put back again following delays to remedial work being carried out by the project’s main contractor.
Willmott Dixon have made a number of attempts to remedy defects related to a ceiling support system affecting all four auditoriums. Their latest works are due to conclude during November, but these delays have prevented the Arc Cinema completing their own fit out in time for a Christmas opening.
The remedial work – which must be completed before The Arc Cinema can install their state-of-the-art digital laser projectors and screens, immersive surround sound systems, and leather recliner seats – is being carried out at no extra cost to West Northamptonshire Council or the operator.
Much of the other work on the £12.5m Mulberry Place development is largely complete, including the cinema’s foyer, the two restaurant units, and the new public square with decorative fountains. Operators for the restaurants are also lined up.
Councillor Lizzy Bowen – Portfolio Holder for Economic Development, Town Centre Regeneration and Growth on WNC – said: “This is a really exciting project that will deliver a first-class leisure destination, so it’s very frustrating that it won’t open for Christmas as we had hoped.
“Please be assured we are engaging with Willmott Dixon on a regular basis to get the remedial work completed as quickly as possible, so that our partners at The Arc Cinema can complete their fit-out.
“The work that The Arc Cinema have carried out inside the building so far is really impressive and, once finished, this will be a fabulous leisure facility that the people of Daventry and the surrounding area can really be proud of.
“I know there is a lot of anticipation around this development, and I would like to thank everyone for bearing with us as we get closer to completion. We’re just as eager for it to open as you are, and I for one can’t wait to settle down to watch a great movie at this wonderful new cinema.”
New multi-million pound vehicle test track set to attract global interest
A Government minister has visited a new multi-million pound vehicle test track being built inside a Victorian railway tunnel in West Northamptonshire.
Minister for Business and Industry Lee Rowley was at the Catesby Aerodynamic Research Facility to see the progress on this unique project as it nears completion.
The facility, near the village of Charwelton, is a previously disused Victorian railway tunnel which has been transformed into a unique indoor world class aerodynamic vehicle testing centre.
The almost 3km-long and perfectly straight tunnel is more accurate and efficient than a wind tunnel and will give the UK a unique proposition in automotive and race car development, which is attracting global interest.
The project has been led by Aero Research Partners (ARP) with construction firm Stepnell designing and building the unique scheme.
The delivery of the project was made possible through a partnership approach, which involved West Northamptonshire Council. The Council bought the tunnel from the Department for Transport and it is now leased to ARP.
The project also received £4.2 million of investment from the Government’s Local Growth Fund, secured through the South East Midlands Local Enterprise Partnership (SEMLEP).
Work on site got underway in January 2018 and is now in its final stages, with ARP undertaking commissioning and trials before Stepnell returns to lay the final asphalt layer so vehicle testing can get underway.
Derbyshire firm shows its support for the UK armed forces as it picks up a silver employers award
A Swadlincote company has strengthened its pledge to help support current and ex-service personnel after it was officially recognised for the work it does to recognise the contributions made by Britain’s armed forces and provide employment for veterans.
MTMS, which provides depot maintenance services for the rail and transport industry, was this week awarded the Silver Defence Employer Recognition Scheme for its ongoing commitment to upholding the values of the Armed Forces Covenant.
The company previously held the bronze award but has taken another step further by introducing a host of new measures, including offering an extra five days unpaid leave for any employees who might be called away with the Territorial Army or the UK’s other reserve forces.
It also advertises itself as a pro-military veteran employer, has pledged to give careers advice to young people attending their local army, air force or navy cadet units and also offers a free counselling service to ex-military staff who might be suffering from anxiety or need advice on overcoming other life or career issues.
MTMS, which employs 35 people and is based in Marquis Drive, was handed its silver award by Kirstie Lawrence, deputy regional employer engagement director for the East Midlands, and is now aiming to get its gold award some time during the next 12 months.
The firm currently employs three former servicemen, including Andy Tarrant, who is now a compliance and quality assurance advisor but previously served as a Royal Engineer before leaving the army in 2003.
He is also a mentor for Buildforce, which is an organisation set up to help service leavers make the transition to the civilian world.
He said: “Making the transition from life in the military to civvy street can be very difficult for many people because of the change in the way of life, the type of situations you work in and a change in status.
“Having a company that promotes itself as service leaver-friendly by displaying the silver award is a huge benefit because it shows that they understand the issues that military personnel face, whether they have just left the forces or are a reservist.”
Malcom Prentice, Managing Director of MTMS, said: “At this time of year we take time to recognise the sacrifices of Britain’s Armed Forces but at MTMS we recognise that our servicemen and women put their lives on the line to protect us 365 days of the year.
“It’s only right that we repay that by offering them the opportunities they deserve when they leave or, if they are a reservist, the extra support they need to fulfil their duty.
“In return we have benefitted greatly from the former service personnel that we have employed. They leave the forces with excellent qualifications and plenty of transferrable skills, and they’ve got a really good work ethic too.”
Communication across branches: how to ensure your teams get all the information they need
Communication between teams is crucial to create good collaboration and make sure effective work is done. Business leaders should do all in their power to enable that good communication across multiple branches and offices. There are many ways to do this, and management should lead by example.
Business leaders should take a holistic approach to communication across branches and teams. They should consider the bigger picture for the business and consider all areas of their organisation. This article will explore some of the most effective ways to improve communication between staff in multiple locations.
Choose One Central Communication Platform
Often business leaders are tempted to try out multiple communication platforms for various uses. This can lead to an excessive number of communication tools which can, in turn, lead to poor communication.
It is best to choose one platform and make sure that all teams in the business use it. For instance, communication platforms like Slack allow direct messaging between individuals as well as group communications. This can be a great way to ensure communication and avoid having too many platforms for staff to choose from.
Create A Feedback Culture
Feedback is crucial to help staff and management improve and progress. All people in a business can benefit from feedback, from entry-level staff to CEOs. Creating a culture of feedback can guarantee that this powerful tool is utilised often. After completing projects, it is a good idea to host a meeting to assess how the project went, what could be improved on and what was successful.
Business leaders should single out employees who have done good work and praise them in front of others. If providing feedback on how individual employees could improve, it is best to do so in private. Leaders should avoid criticising employees in front of their peers as this can lead to mistrust in management.
Utilise Video Conferencing Technology
When ensuring communication between teams in multiple locations, it can be beneficial to use video conferencing technology. This allows teams to communicate in real-time where face to face time isn’t achievable. It may help to implement weekly cross-team video conferences to ensure that everyone can discuss the company goals and projects and ensure they are all on the same page.
Use Cloud Storage
Cloud storage can be an excellent way to ensure that all teams have the documents and information they need to do their work correctly. This can be particularly beneficial if your business deals with a lot of paperwork. Business leaders should make sure that teams scan all hard copies to upload to the cloud, allowing staff in all locations access. Management should ensure that the cloud storage they use is appropriate, offers all the services they need and can easily host the amount of documentation they use.
Set Company-Wide Goals
Having company-wide goals can be a great way to guarantee that all team members are working on the same page. Business leaders should be clear in their plans for the business and take the time to update all employees on what these goals are regularly.
Having clear, bigger-picture goals to work towards can help employees feel more confident in their roles and check that they know what they need to do to contribute to the company’s success. When discussing the company goals, business leaders should highlight the importance of communication.
Make Files Easy To Share
In addition to cloud storage, the documents your business uses should be easy to share. Sometimes employees will need to share documents via email or through communications platforms, so they must know how to make larger documents more manageable to work with. Adobe offers excellent guides to help users learn how to compress a PDF file which can be invaluable for employees who need to share documents regularly. Business leaders should teach their staff to understand the ways to turn larger documents into more manageable sizes.
Host Social Activities Outside Work
Ensuring your employees can connect outside of work is a great way to help foster stronger workplace bonds. The more comfortable employees feel with one another, the more likely they are to reach out at work when they need help or information. Business leaders should consider hosting regular social events such as drinks after work on Fridays, company retreats and business lunches.
Team lunches can be a great way to fit socialising into the typical working day. If your offices are spread across a larger area, leaders should consider hosting quarterly get-togethers for meals or team-building exercises. Leaders could also encourage staff to create company-wide clubs or societies so that employees with similar interests can bond outside of work.
Lead By Example
Business leaders should show their staff a good example by acting in the way they expect their staff to behave. A good way to show your commitment to creating a healthy communication culture at work can be to have an open-door policy. This allows employees face time with management to air concerns or offer suggestions.
Use Project Management Tools
Project management tools can be an excellent way to keep track of the various work and projects being done at any given time. It can also be an excellent way for employees to track their own work and identify who they need to collaborate with to get their job done. Business leaders should look into the various available tools and ensure that the one they choose will be beneficial for the type of work their business carries out.
Reward Collaboration
Rewarding good collaboration and communication can be a great way to encourage the behaviours you want to see in a business. Reward systems can be implemented that allow employees to give points to other employees when they help them out or do good work. Over time these points can be built up and redeemed by the employee into rewards such as vouchers or gifts. This can be an excellent way to encourage collaboration between employees and help staff feel valued.
Choose The Right Leaders
The leaders in a business make all the difference in ensuring a healthy culture of communication. When hiring or promoting employees to leadership roles, choosing people who make effective communication a priority is crucial. Interview processes should include questions about communication style and how a prospective leader will boost communication across various teams.
Hire The Best People
Hiring the right employees, to begin with, can make a huge difference in ensuring effective collaboration. Business leaders should make their company attractive to the best talent by offering a competitive salary, attractive conditions and a positive work environment. There should also be clear progression paths for employees of every level.
Final Thoughts
Ensuring effective communication across multiple branches can be a real challenge for business leaders. It is crucial to confirm that all areas of the business are considered and that employees have the tools and knowledge they need to communicate effectively. Encouraging healthy social interactions among employees can also be invaluable.
Management should lead by example and show junior staff the type of behaviours they expect to see. Offering employees training in communication can also be an excellent way to improve collaboration across the board.
Proposals submitted to demolish Domestic & General offices for major student scheme
Plans to demolish an office building in Nottingham, to make way for student accommodation, have been submitted to the city council.
The plans for Chaddesden House, at 77 Talbot Street, come from McLaren Property (Nottingham) Limited.
The building currently hosts the offices of Domestic & General, which will move to new premises on Station Street in late 2022.
A design statement says: “The vision for this proposal is to create a high quality purpose built student accommodation scheme with external courtyards and landscaping, which sits well within the conservation areas well as within its more immediate context.
The new development is to provide 318 student beds over 10 levels, as well as communal facilities. A mix of 1 bed self contained studio apartments and ensuite cluster bedrooms, with clusters ranging from 4-8 beds, would be created.
“Refurbishment of the existing building was considered at an early stage but unfortunately was not found to be viable.
“Instead the existing building will be demolished in order to make way for this new development.”
Safety tech startup Tended receives £2.4m funding boost
Lincolnshire safety technology startup Tended has secured £2.4m in investment to further propel its growth, bringing the company’s total funding to £4.4m.
The funding was led by existing investor Blackfinch Ventures, with participation from early-stage European venture capital firm Basinghall Partners, UKRI, and a number of industry-specific angel investors.
Founded in 2017 by Leo Scott Smith, Tended creates wearable safety solutions that are used across industries, including construction, manufacturing, utilities, and logistics to improve employee safety and site efficiency.
The start-up already counts industry leaders, such as Siemens, Rolls-Royce, Network Rail, Unilever and Babcock, as its customers, helping them to improve their occupational safety.
Tended’s CEO and founder, Leo Scott Smith, said: “Every company has its own unique set of safety challenges. Interventions such as training and processes only go so far to improve safety. We’re helping companies uncover and understand the underlying influences of unsafe actions and provide the resources to help them change those behaviours
“We aim to help companies achieve sustainable change to promote a safer workplace and positive employee experience. The team has been working hard on product development and thanks to investors like Basinghall, we’re one step closer to making sure loved ones return home from dangerous working environments at the end of the day.”
Ginette Oebel, founding partner at Basinghall Partners, said: “Tended is an inspiring company with a vision to significantly improve safety in workplaces using precision and science-based tools. Basinghall is delighted to support Tended on its journey and also to make Tended’s solutions accessible to our Industry Partners.”
Foresight invests £750k into AI software solutions provider
Foresight Group, a listed private equity and infrastructure investment manager, has made a £749,000 growth capital investment into The Modular Analytics Company Limited (TMAC), using equity finance from the Midlands Engine Investment Fund (MEIF) as part of a c.£1.5 million funding round.
Founded in 2018 by Jimmy Hosang and Sean Northam, TMAC is a rapidly growing contact centre software solutions company. With significant operations across the Midlands, TMAC’s proprietary artificial intelligence and machine learning software drives efficiency, reduces costs and improves results for large contact centres primarily in the insurance, retail and banking sectors.
This funding round supports the company’s growth plans, allowing it to focus on developing its software as a solution platform, as well as make key senior hires as they consolidate their East Midlands base.
Jordan Lavender, investment manager at Foresight, said: “We are delighted to be supporting TMAC on its next stage of growth. With digital transformation projects becoming more widespread in organisations, TMAC is well placed to take advantage of this flourishing market. The team have extensive experience in this sector and I am pleased they have selected Foresight as their partner for the next exciting phase of their journey.”
Commenting on the investment, Jimmy Hosang, CEO and co-founder of TMAC, said: “I’d like to thank the British Business Bank, Foresight Group and the Greater Manchester Combined Authority in supporting us in our vision to create a market leading AI company that the regions can be proud of.
“This investment will allow TMAC to invest in our products and create numerous jobs across the Midlands and Greater Manchester which are both high quality and diverse in nature, including speech analytics consultants, data engineers, product and UX specialists and B2B marketeers.”
Plans in for 49 homes and extensive flood alleviation scheme in Northamptonshire
Terra has submitted a Full Planning Application to West Northamptonshire District Council for 49 new homes, provision for a community hall, and 4,000 cubic metres of water storage ponds.
The 4.2ha (10.4-acre) site is located off Farndon Road, in the rural village of Woodford Halse, Daventry.
Located between Daventry and Banbury, close to Hinton – the largest village in the Parish of Woodford cum Membris – the area has been affected by flooding during the past 10 years. In November 2012, there were four areas within the village where flooding occurred and 10 properties flooded internally.
A Flood Investigation Report by Northamptonshire County Council recommends extensive water alleviation measures. The development of new dwellings is required to fund the works, which will intercept surface water from the stream and manage its slow release.
The plans for the site propose two Sustainable Drainage Systems (SUDS) to be created either side of a low density development of 49 two, three and four-bedroom houses and two-bedroom bungalows. The home designs reflect the traditional architectural styles found within the village.
A site for a new community facility to potentially replace the Parish’s Memorial Hall is also proposed, including designated parking provision. New tree and native hedgerow planting, Public Open Space and footpath links will deliver additional benefits. The architect for the scheme is Birmingham-based UMAA Architecture Ltd.
James O’Shea, Managing Director of Terra, said: “Roads, gardens and homes in Woodford Halse and Hinton have been affected by flooding. This can hamper the ability of Emergency Services to access properties, as well as causing havoc to daily life. There is a real need for a robust, permanent water alleviation scheme, which this quality scheme of family houses and bungalows can be the enabler for.
“Within the Daventry area, there is also a chronic shortage of new homes, especially in the rural villages. This much-needed development could enable local people to move into a modern, economical new home without needing to leave the area. We have already carried out consultation work and look forward to working alongside Officers, Councillors and additional consultees while the planning application is being considered.”
Furnished office expansion for Connect Derby
Connect Derby, the managed workspace provider, has extended its furnished office offering following the success of a pilot scheme at its Friar Gate Studios headquarters.
Just two months after it was launched, the furnished offices at Friar Gate Studios on Ford Street achieved 89% occupancy with tenants including recruitment specialists EMBS and lettings agency Monkey v Owl.
Now furnished offices are being introduced at Connect Derby’s other managed workspaces at the iHub innovation centre, Sadler Bridge Studios, Riverside Chambers, Marble Hall, and Kings Chambers.
The Covid-secure offices will be available to rent on a short-term basis of up to six-months, and will be equipped with desks, chairs, storage units, phone lines and high-speed broadband. Some offices also have a breakfast bar, sofas, tub chairs, coffee tables, plants, and artwork.
Furnished offices have been introduced at Connect Derby in response to the changing workplace environment and increasing demand from businesses for a short-term letting arrangement as they reassess the impact of the pandemic on their operations.
Commenting on the expansion of the furnished office offer, Ann Bhatti, head of Connect Derby, said: “Our initial pilot scheme at Friar Gate Studios was a huge success, providing businesses with the breathing space they need to consider their future accommodation needs.
“Since it was launched in 2014, Connect Derby have been pioneers of the managed workspace sector in the region. We hope the expansion of these highly quality furnished offices will encourage more people back into the city centre.
“We look forward to welcoming new businesses to Connect Derby and helping them to gain a competitive advantage in this new era of work.”
Nottingham’s See Tickets acquires exhibition services firm
Nottingham-based See Tickets has acquired LiveBuzz Group Limited, LiveBuzz Limited and LiveBuzz Web Design Limited (the “LiveBuzz Group”).
The LiveBuzz Group are a leading provider of services to the UK exhibition services sector and this strategic acquisition by See Tickets, an independent, full-service ticketing business wholly owned by Vivendi, will expand See Tickets’ presence in growing businesses.
See Tickets has the ambition to become the market leader in trade exhibition registration services. The board of See Tickets has been impressed with the technology and expertise demonstrated by the LiveBuzz Group. It plans to invest in the teams and in technology to expand the business further.
The Freeths team advising See Tickets was led by John Heaphy, Mallory Coxe and Maddy Scott.
John Heaphy said: “We are delighted to have acted for the See Tickets team (who are a long-standing client of Freeths) on their strategic acquisition of the LiveBuzz Group. It is really positive to see a client who is confident and bold enough to make an acquisition in the hospitality and leisure sector in what are still difficult times.”
Rob Wilmshurst, Global CEO at See Tickets, said: “It was great to work with Freeths on this acquisition who I have known for nearly 30 years!
“We are delighted to have completed this transaction and warmly welcome the LiveBuzz team to the See Tickets family.
“We firmly believe there is huge potential in this acquisition and the efficient combination of both existing operations will provide a powerful operating framework that will be unrivalled and will greatly benefit all stakeholders in the exhibition space in the UK and progressively in the other countries where See Tickets operates.”
Nottingham lands £3m funding boost to support jobs growth and training
Nottingham has been successful in applying for almost £3million of funding to be spent on improving skills, boosting employment and helping businesses to grow.
The City Council has received £2,879,496 from the Government’s UK Community Renewal Fund (UK CRF), which was the full amount of grant money applied for.
The £220million fund is designed to help pilot programmes and new approaches in local communities.
It will now fund the Council, in partnership with The East Midlands Chamber, Groundwork, University of Nottingham and Volunteer It Yourself, to deliver four UK CRF projects between now and June next year. These are:
- East Midlands Chamber (£1.1m): Support 280 businesses in key growth sectors to recover from the pandemic, and deliver a sector-based skills programme to convert Kickstart placements (a Government scheme where employers are given funding to employ under-25s on Universal Credit) and graduates placements into sustainable jobs;
- Groundwork (£1.2m): Fund a wage-subsidy for 100 people, creating jobs and helping employers recruit over-25s who are not eligible for the Kickstart programme;
- University of Nottingham (£354,000): Advance retrofit strategy and policy development through the delivery of energy and carbon assessments, cost and feasibility studies, compliance reviews, cost-effectiveness analysis and workforce carbon skills support;
- Volunteer It Yourself (£204,000): Support 150 unemployed and economically-inactive 16 to 24-year-olds, gain and apply vocational construction skills while renovating valued local buildings and spaces in the City.
Sustainable pallet manufacturer to create 15 jobs following £750,000 funding
A Wellingborough-based paper honeycomb board manufacturer has secured £750,000 to expand its product range, create jobs and enter new markets.
The Alternative Pallet Company Ltd who trade as PALLITE® received funding from the Midlands Engine Investment Fund (MEIF) provided by The FSE Group Debt Finance Fund and backed by the Coronavirus Business Interruption Loan Scheme (CBILS).
The MEIF funding will help to create 15 new jobs in the next year, with the ability to offer apprenticeships to the under-25s.
The investment will also allow the business to expand its product offering with the creation of a new furniture range – following on from its pop-up desk success. The business is also looking at entering new markets in the high-value fashion and fragile goods sectors, as well as expanding into Europe and North America.
Iain Hulmes, CEO of The Alternative Pallet Company, said: “All of our products are designed in-house and are both nail and splinter free and exempt from heat treatment legislation for exported products.
“Although we started out as a pallet business, we listened to our customers and further developed the PALLITE® range to include collapsible pallet boxes, insulated pallet boxes, layer boards and pallet feet. The FSE Group guided us through the funding process and we appreciate their help to achieve our growth ambitions.”
Ann Marie McFadyen, investment manager at The FSE Group, which manages the MEIF Debt Finance Fund, adds: “PALLITE® has an established product range demonstrating commercial traction with a large customer base.
“The UK transport sector produces over 25% of greenhouse gas emissions so it is great that Iain and his team are creating environmentally friendly products that will help reduce these emissions. It is encouraging to see the business enter new markets and we look forward to this next exciting stage of their journey.”
Vicky Hlomuka, SEMLEP’s Growth Hub manager, said: “PALLITE® is a perfect example of how a business can innovate to develop more sustainable products that not only benefit the environment, but increase customer satisfaction.
“It’s fantastic to see the Midlands Engine Investment Fund investing in yet another Northamptonshire based businesses to create more jobs and enabling PALLITE® to continue to develop unique product solutions in the packaging and logistics industries.”
Significant investment to fuel software platform’s growth
Pollen Street Capital has agreed a sale of Aryza, which has a large office in Nottingham, to Atlas Bidco 1 Limited – a company owned by Macquarie Capital Principal Finance, Pollen Street, and Aryza senior management.
The parties say they are excited by the future growth potential of the software platform, attractive market dynamics and M&A opportunity.
Colin Brown, CEO of Aryza Group, said: “This is a major step forward in the growth of Aryza, we have continued to build a sustainable and successful business throughout one of the most difficult trading periods in history.
“This additional investment will fuel even more organic growth and present us with a greater depth to explore opportunities in new territories, and to continue to enhance our market-leading product set.”
Pollen Street first invested in Aryza in 2017. Since then, Aryza has grown rapidly in size and breadth of offering, both organically and through M&A. Today it is a global leading provider of case management and process automation software solutions for regulated industries, serving the insolvency, credit, and debt recovery sectors.
Macquarie bring substantial institutional expertise and operational experience, as well as an extensive network in Australia, New Zealand, US and Asia and flexible capital to support continued growth of Aryza. Its capabilities are demonstrated through a track record of more than 620 investments deploying $US35 billion since inception in 2009, including many software investments.
Adam Joseph, head of private equity, Macquarie Capital Principal Finance Europe, said: “We were attracted by Aryza’s exceptional quality, leading position in lending and insolvency sectors and defensible market position – with the potential for further product and geographic growth.
“Investing alongside Pollen Street Capital, with whom we have a long-standing relationship, provides a unique opportunity to deploy our flexible capital to offer additional support and the resources required to help achieve Aryza’s future growth ambitions.”
Sharand Maharaj, Managing Director at Macquarie Capital Principal Finance, added: “We look forward to working alongside Colin and the rest of the management team and bringing our experience in supporting high growth businesses to help continue the impressive momentum they have achieved with Pollen Street Capital to date.”
Corby logistics firm on the road to success with site expansion
A transport and logistics firm in Corby is heading for growth after investing in new warehousing space, with support from Lloyds Bank.
Sanderson Transport used a seven-figure funding package to purchase a 5.5-acre site adjacent to one of its existing properties, which will provide an additional 55,000 sq ft of warehouse space, as well as increasing the office footprint for its logistics operations.
It will increase the firm’s warehousing capacity by up to 50%, and enable it to expand its growing e-commerce fulfilment services.
The firm provides transport and logistics solutions for a variety of customers, ranging from industrial goods to retail, with a fleet of more than 80 vehicles. It employs more than 140 people across its sites in Corby and Market Harborough.
The new investment follows a period of sustained growth for Sanderson Transport over the past five years, which has seen its customer base expand significantly.
Ed Sanderson, commercial director at Sanderson Transport, said: “We’ve increased the size of our operations significantly over the past five years or so. Acquiring the new site will give us even more room for growth and the chance to diversify what we do even further.”
Belinda Smith, relationship manager at Lloyds Bank, said: “Sanderson Transport has enjoyed impressive growth in recent years and we’re pleased to see the team build on this success with the acquisition of its new site.
“We will continue to support them as they move forward, and will be working with other businesses across the area to help them on their own growth journeys.”
£30m Nottingham development acquired by Northwood Urban Logistics
The employment and trade phases of a £30 million mixed-use development in Nottingham has been acquired by Northwood Urban Logistics, investor in UK urban logistics.
Teal Park, off the Colwick Loop Road in Netherfield, has been jointly developed by Warwickshire-based AC Lloyd Commercial (ACL) and Nottingham-based Henry Davidson Developments (HDD).
Northwood Urban Logistics has now purchased the entire industrial element of the scheme which will be delivered by ACL and HDD in three phases.
The first phase of this development is now completed and fully let which includes 33,300 sq ft of trade units with Toolstation and Screwfix now open and Howdens due to start their fitting out works imminently.
Phase 2 consists of 19,500 sq ft of trade units with 50% already under offer and Phase 3 consists of six mid-range industrial units ranging from 9,000 sq ft to 30,000 sq ft, totalling 111,000 sq ft.
Mark Edwards, Managing Director at AC Lloyd Commercial, said this deal highlighted the investor demand for employment led development in Nottingham.
He said: “Nottingham has a great reputation for its innovation which, coupled with its fantastic transport links, make it an attractive proposition for investors.
“Northwood Urban Logistics were looking for a site in this part of the city and it met all their needs.
“From day one, the response we received from Gedling Borough Council to our plans and from national and regional businesses wanting to locate at Teal Park has been hugely positive and we look forward to completing the development by autumn 2022.”
Iain Taylor, director at Northwood Urban Logistics, said: ‘’We are very excited to have purchased Teal Park at a time when there is a chronic lack of supply in the area. Teal Park is able to cater to a wide range of occupiers who will be able to adapt the units for a variety of uses.’’
Richard Croft, director at HDD, added: “There is a very strong market for well-located trade and mid-box industrial sites as we start to emerge from Covid-19 and this was reflected in the interest and subsequent sale to Northwood Urban Logistics.
“It has been a real pleasure dealing with Northwood Urban Logistics on the first phase and we look forward to working closely with them on delivering the next trade and industrial phases at Teal Park.”
Howes Percival expands contentious trust and probate team
Law firm Howes Percival has appointed experienced litigator, Jennifer Laskey, as a director specialising in dispute resolution. Jennifer joins the firm from Wilson Browne Solicitors where she was a partner.
With over 20 years’ experience, Jennifer has qualified as a full member of the Association of Contentious Trust and Probate Specialists. Jennifer has expertise in relation to contentious trust and probate disputes, advising clients in will disputes, claims against estates, challenges to will validity and issues arising from the administration of trusts. She has also represented clients in a rare presumption of death application.
Geraint Davies, practice group leader for litigation at Howes Percival, said: “I am delighted to welcome Jennifer to Howes Percival. Her recruitment is an important part of our national strategy to grow our dispute resolution, private client, and family law work.
“Not only does Jennifer bring with her valuable experience in advising on contentious trusts and probate disputes, having been a board member and marketing partner at her previous firm, she is ideally placed to help us grow this practice area further.
“We are seeing a growing number of instructions in this area, often involving substantial and complex estates. We have also noticed that more clients are looking for real expertise first and foremost and are often less concerned by geographical location. While some clients still prefer face-to-face meetings, an increasing number are comfortable with virtual consultations.
“We are seeing this trend across a range of practice areas including intellectual property law and property development work, where new communication technologies are helping us to develop niche areas of expertise far beyond the usual geographical boundaries.”
Howes Percival has offices in Cambridge, Leicester, Manchester, Milton Keynes, Northampton, and Norwich.
Royal Warrant of Appointment to Her Majesty The Queen granted to John Mills of MHR International UK Limited
A Royal Warrant of Appointment has been granted to John Mills Esquire, President and Founder of MHR International UK Limited, for the supply of Payroll and HR Systems to Her Majesty The Queen.
John Mills says: “It is a real honour to be the recipient of this highly esteemed award. MHR is now among over 800 Royal Warrant holders, whose work in trade and industry has been acknowledged at the highest level.
“At MHR, we are united by a commitment to the highest standards of service, quality and excellence, and it is a source of great pride that MHR International UK Limited has received the Royal Warrant.”
Since the Nottinghamshire-headquartered business was founded in 1984 by John Mills, MHR has grown significantly and has adapted to many changes to continue to meet the needs of customers.
John Mills continues: “This is an exciting time for MHR. The receipt of this reward is a tribute to the endeavours and commitment of everyone within MHR International that has made it the company it is today. This recognition can also be attributed to all our staff for being an integral part of our journey.”
Notts fire & security company expand East Anglian presence
Notts fire & security system installation and maintenance company Tecserv UK has expanded its presence in East Anglia following the appointment of Simon Brighty as area manager for the region.
Simon, who has worked in the industry since 1995, joins the company from Honeywell Building Solutions where he has spent the last 18 years in a variety of servicing, project management and field based roles supervising teams of service technicians.
In his new role, Simon will be responsible for growing the service base in the East Anglia Area and managing a growing team of service engineers. This will include estimating new projects and small works opportunities.
Commenting on his appointment Simon said: “After a long period working for the same company I needed a change and a fresh challenge. Tecserv has a great reputation within the fire and security industry, and I am excited about the opportunity to help them develop their East Anglian presence based on my previous skills and experience.”
Colin Milligan, Tecserv UK sales director, added: “Simon brings a wide range of managerial, supervisory and technical expertise to the team and has a wide network of contacts in East Anglia that we hope will help to expand our profile and reputation further in this region.”
Two new starters bolster APSS team
Lincolnshire-based commercial interior design and fit out firm APSS has taken on two new recruits to help strengthen the team as demand continues to rise for office design and refurbishments post pandemic.
About to enter its 25th year of business, the office refurbishment company has received increased levels of enquiries to help businesses across the UK adapt their workplace to reflect a more flexible and hybrid working environment.
Both Simon Atkinson and Lee Morris join the team to support customers in their journey to a more efficient and productive workspace.
Simon has joined as a Business Development Manager focusing on potential new customers across the East Midlands. He has seven years’ experience within the commercial interiors industry and in previous roles he strategically focused on opening new pipeline opportunities.
Lee has joined the project management team and will be helping to deliver projects to the highest standards for clients across the UK, ensuring the company fulfils its Customer Satisfaction Promise by helping sites to run efficiently. He will ensure accurate costings and orders, so projects are completed on time and within budget. Lee has moved from Leicester City Football Club where he helped deliver internal projects with the stadium and training facilities.
Stuart Marsland, sales director for the office refurbishment company, said: “APSS is going from strength to strength as the business continues its growth. As a company, we are now looking forward to how we can help businesses achieve their ideal look in 2022 with a full design and build, refurbishment or to expand on their existing space with a purpose-built office mezzanine.
“Simon’s previous experience gives him a fantastic starting point as he already knows the ins and outs of the industry and his experience will be invaluable in driving new business within APSS. Whilst Lee is in the perfect position to manage our customers’ expectations on site.”
Since July, APSS has recruited five new staff and is still looking for more.
