Future-proofing careers: Education trends impacting regional business
Preparing for shifts in workforce demands has become an essential strategy for both professionals and businesses aiming to stay ahead. Employers increasingly prioritise skills development, understanding that a well-trained workforce drives productivity and innovation. Advances in technology, alongside changing professional requirements, are altering how individuals pursue higher education and advanced qualifications.
The East Midlands, as a hub of diverse industries, is well-positioned to benefit from these educational transformations. By embracing flexible learning options, workers in the region can align their skillsets with market needs without disrupting their careers. Online education, in particular, offers a pathway to acquire advanced expertise.
Keep reading as we explore how these education trends are shaping regional businesses and helping professionals future-proof their careers.
Emerging Education Trends Shaping Regional Economies
Educational approaches are undergoing significant transformations, propelled by technological advancements and changing workforce demands. A notable shift is the widespread adoption of online education, offering flexible and accessible alternatives to traditional classroom-based learning. Micro-credentials—short, focused courses designed to impart specific skills—are also gaining popularity, particularly in industries requiring specialised expertise.
These trends benefit both professionals and businesses. Individuals can acquire qualifications without disrupting their current roles, while employers benefit from a workforce that is both skilled and adaptable to emerging industry needs.
Flexible Learning as a Driver for Professional Growth
Flexible learning models have become essential for career development. Online master’s courses, in particular, enable professionals to deepen their knowledge while balancing personal and professional responsibilities. Unlike traditional programs, these courses allow learners to integrate education seamlessly into their lives.
Certain sectors have notably embraced this trend. Fields such as business management, healthcare, and technology benefit from professionals pursuing advanced qualifications tailored to industry needs. Online education allows individuals in these sectors to acquire cutting-edge skills, fostering innovation and productivity in their workplaces.
Professionals looking to develop their skill set with online Masters courses have a wealth of opportunities to explore, enabling them to align their learning with industry-specific goals. This approach supports personal growth while ensuring they remain competitive in their fields.
Regional Benefits of a Skilled Workforce
A skilled workforce is not only advantageous for individuals but also plays a critical role in regional economic health. For the East Midlands, fostering advanced educational opportunities strengthens its position as a hub for innovation and industry growth. Businesses that invest in education initiatives often contribute to higher levels of productivity and employment stability, benefiting both the organisation and the wider community.
Local governments and industry groups are increasingly recognising the importance of aligning educational programs with regional economic strategies. For example, initiatives focused on green technology and renewable energy in the East Midlands have spurred demand for courses and qualifications that address skills gaps in these sectors. By offering targeted learning opportunities, the region can ensure that its workforce is equipped to meet the needs of emerging industries.
Practical Steps for Professionals to Stay Competitive
In an era of rapid industry transformation, professionals must take proactive steps to remain relevant. Lifelong learning has become essential for career resilience, enabling individuals to navigate shifts in technology and market demands.
One effective strategy is exploring flexible educational options, such as online master’s degrees. These courses allow learners to specialise in areas aligned with their career aspirations while offering the flexibility needed to manage other commitments. By choosing the right program, professionals can develop their skill set in a way that aligns with their long-term goals.
For those uncertain about where to begin, identifying industry trends can be a helpful starting point. For example, technology professionals might focus on emerging fields like artificial intelligence or cybersecurity, while healthcare workers might explore advanced management techniques. Consulting with industry peers or mentors can also provide valuable insights into the qualifications that carry the most weight.
The Bottom Line
Education trends are profoundly shaping the future of careers and regional business. Now is the time to explore innovative educational pathways that align with individual and organisational goals. Whether through specialised courses, online master’s programs, or employer-supported initiatives, the opportunities to enhance skills and drive success are greater than ever.
2025 Business Predictions: Zeynep Guzelkasap, Operations Manager at Acorn Safety Services
It’s that time of year, when Business Link Magazine invites the region’s business leaders to offer up their predictions for the year ahead.
It has become something of a tradition, given that we’ve been doing this now for over 30 years.
Here we speak to Zeynep Guzelkasap, Operations Manager at Acorn Safety Services.
The world of health and safety will see a continued focus on fire prevention during 2025.
Following the introduction of new high-rise regulations as part of the Building Safety Act 2022 we have seen a dramatic uptick in requests for fire safety support and this is very likely to persist in the months ahead.
Fire safety will play a big part in health and safety going forward as accountable individuals take all reasonable steps to prevent building safety risks.
Health and safety companies will need to embrace technology and investigate how it can support business goals if it fits the budget.
There is likely to be growth in software and wearable devices to measure exposure and collect more data.
Technology can also make people feel more looked after within the industry.
The year ahead will also see a great emphasis on mental health in the workplace and how to deal with stress.
It is vital that employers recognise that work can have a massive impact on health and should be well trained to spot any signs of struggling. We have a duty of care to look after employees and be aware that some people might not have additional support outside of work and instead rely on colleagues.
It is imperative to offer an open door so that employees know that they have someone to talk to.
East Midlands business confidence holds steady in December
Business confidence in the East Midlands held steady in December, unchanged from November at 38%, according to the latest Business Barometer from Lloyds.
While companies in the East Midlands reported lower confidence in their own business prospects month-on-month, down 13 points at 39%, their optimism in the economy rose 12 points to 36%. Taken together, this gives a headline confidence reading of 38% (unchanged from November).
A net balance of 33% of businesses in the region also expect to increase staff levels over the next year, up eight points on last month.
Looking ahead to the next six months, businesses in the East Midlands identified their top target areas for growth as investing in their team, for example through training (44%), evolving their offering, for instance with new products or services (30%) and introducing new technology (29%).
The Business Barometer, which surveys 1,200 businesses monthly and which has been running since 2002, provides early signals about UK economic trends both regionally and nationwide.
National picture
Overall UK business confidence fell two points in December to 39%, although remained above the long-term average of 29%.
While firms’ confidence in the wider economy strengthened five points to 31%, their confidence in their own trading prospects fell eight points to 47%.
London was the most confident UK nation or region in November (53%) for a second month in a row, followed by the North West (50%).
Sector insights
Although confidence fell in the service sector, this was partly offset by rises in manufacturing and retail, with these sectors swapping places in December.
Services fell from 46% to 35% in December – a fall of 11 points. In contrast, manufacturing and retail increased 10 points to 42% and 43% respectively, thereby taking manufacturing and retail above services for the first time in 4 months.
Trading prospects for retail rose for the first time in three months, while construction confidence was steady at 41%, equalling last month’s result.
Dave Atkinson, regional director for the East Midlands at Lloyds, said: “The East Midlands has bucked the national trend this month, with confidence holding firm. And it’s incredibly encouraging to more businesses setting out plans to hire in the year ahead – a move that will benefit their local communities and the local economy, as well as their own operations.
“As businesses look ahead to the new year, we’ll continue to be by their side with our support to help them make the most of any new opportunities that arise.”
Nottingham Express Transit (NET) shows signs of recovery
Nottingham Express Transit (NET) is showing signs of continued recovery, according to new financial figures, with increased customer journeys and reduced losses indicating ongoing improvements and stability across the network.
The figures were published by the operator of the NET concession, Tramlink Nottingham Limited, as part of the annual accounts for the year up to 31 March 2024. They show that following a financial restructuring project in partnership with the Department for Transport and Nottingham City Council, the network continues to trade in line with projected expectations, operating from a robust position which looks set to continue into 2025.
Customer confidence in the network remains strong, with passenger journeys increasing year on year, with most recent figures reporting an increase to 15.5m, compared to 14.4m in the prior financial year.
Profits also showed signs of improvement, with the company making a gross profit of £8.24m, compared to £7.65m in the previous year, before taking into account COVID relief grants from central government and exceptional fixed asset impairment charges.
Similarly, total losses for the year, before tax and including interest charges, were £26.3m compared to £57.1m for the previous year, which is in line with financial expectations. The prior year’s figure was impacted by an impairment charge of £26.7m, to reduce the carrying value of fixed assets in line with revised expected net present value future cashflows over the remainder of the concession in the post-COVID business environment.
Tim Hesketh, CEO of Tramlink, said: “We were confident that last year’s financial restructuring project would give our network the security we needed to concentrate on making investments towards improvements to our service, and our most recent financial figures are an indicator of its success.
“After a challenging few years, it’s promising to see that we’re now in a much stronger position, and we’d like to thank the City Council and Department of Transport for all their support.
“We would also like to thank our customers for their continued support over the last year, during which we delivered a 7.4% increase in passenger kilometres travelled, as well as increased tram reliability. We look forward to building on this in 2025.”
The concession which allows Tramlink to run the NET tram system runs until 2034, and factors in losses in the earlier years due to investments in the system, including expanding the network in 2015 and buying new tram vehicles.
Acquisition sees Rix Petroleum strengthen Lincolnshire presence
Family-owned business Rix Petroleum Ltd has strengthened its base in Lincolnshire with the acquisition of a Grantham-based fuel provider.
The company, which is headquartered in Hull, has acquired EFuels Ltd in Gorse Lane for an undisclosed sum.
The move brings the number of fuel depots Rix Petroleum owns and operates in the county to four, with others in Immingham, Gainsborough, and Spalding.
The Grantham depot will remain branded as EFuels for the time being, and will continue to be headed up by existing depot manager Matthew Keightley, who moves to Rix under the deal.
Duncan Lambert, Managing Director of Rix Petroleum, said the move would enable the business to provide a better service to farms, businesses and rural households across south Lincolnshire.
Rix specialises in the provision of agricultural fuels and lubricants, standard diesel, and home heating oil for rural communities.
Mr Lambert said: “We’re delighted to complete this deal. Lincolnshire is a famously agricultural county and acquiring this depot will enable us to support local farmers, businesses, and rural communities across the south of the county more efficiently and effectively.
“As a sixth-generation family business, we pride ourselves on our values of fairness, great customer relations and service, and supporting communities, and it precisely these values we will bring to our newly acquired Grantham depot.”
The deal completes the company’s coverage in Lincolnshire, with the combination of all four depots providing easy access to communities across the entire county.
Depot manager Matthew Keightley, said he was delighted with the deal.
He said: “Rix Petroleum is well known in the industry as a long-established family business that customers can rely on.
“I know that our customers in and around Grantham will be very well looked after by myself and the wider Rix team, so I feel this is a fantastic opportunity to take the business forward.”
Rushton Hickman extends property management portfolio
Rushton Hickman’s Property Management department have secured the management instruction of Eccleshall Business Park in Burton.
The industrial estate is situated on Hawkins Lane, which, together with Wharf Road and Wetmore Road, forms one of the principal industrial areas in Burton upon Trent.
Eccleshall Business Park includes 18 industrial units varying between 600 sq ft and 2,600 sq ft, with only one remaining unit currently being marketed by the agency team at Rushton Hickman.
Richard Fairey, Director at Rushton Hickman, expressed his enthusiasm for the new instruction, saying: “We are ecstatic about the opportunity to work with Eccleshall Business Park and we are dedicated to ensuring that the industrial estate continues to thrive and meet the needs of its tenants.”
Jade Martin, Associate Director, added: “We are delighted to be involved with Eccleshall Business Park and we look forward to working closely with the owner and tenants to ensure its continued success and growth.”
Client, Brian Eccleshall (Builders) Ltd commented: “Honestly, we wish we had contacted Rushton Hickman sooner and put the management of our business park in the hands of Richard and Jade years ago! We quickly realised that instructing the team was the best decision we could have made.
“It has not only given us peace of mind but also allowed us to focus on other aspects of our business. We are optimistic for the years ahead.”
Fugitive tax fraudster has five years added to sentence
A fugitive fraudster who stole more than £750,000 in a tax and mortgage fraud faces an extra five years in prison for not paying back the money.
Crooked tax agent Robin Moss will also have his prized possessions, including thousands of pounds of collectible Moorcroft pottery, gold coins and jewellery, auctioned off to recover some of the stolen cash.
Moss, an internationally-ranked chess player, lied about his income, made bogus claims in the names of unsuspecting clients, and provided false documents that were used in fraudulent mortgage applications.
The 60-year-old was sentenced in his absence to 10 years in prison for tax fraud, money laundering, mortgage fraud and theft. He was convicted in October 2023, after a joint investigation between HMRC and police officers from the East Midlands Special Operations Unit.
Moss has now been handed an extra five-year sentence at Nottingham Crown Court for failing to repay a £970,101 confiscation order.
He now faces a total of 15 years in prison and will still owe the money, plus interest that continues to accrue, even after he has served his extended sentence.
Mark Robinson Operational Lead, Fraud Investigation Service, HMRC, said: “Our work doesn’t stop at conviction – we always look to recover the proceeds of crime, money that should have been used to fund our public services.
“We’re determined to track down Robin Moss and when we do, he’ll now spend even longer in prison and still owe the money.
“We encourage anyone with information about tax fraud to report it onlineto HMRC.”
Landmark rail innovation centre plans steam ahead
Plans to create a modern rail innovation and training centre in Barrow Hill, Staveley – which will create jobs and skills opportunities for local people, and bolster Chesterfield’s ambitions to be a leading destination for the rail sector – have reached a major milestone.
Proposals to create the Derbyshire Rail Industry Innovation Vehicle (DRIIVe) next to the historic Barrow Hill Roundhouse are pressing ahead after Chesterfield Borough Council appointed a contractor to lead the scheme.
It follows consideration of a report at meetings of Cabinet and Full Council last week which agreed the final elements of the funding package required to support the delivery of the project, and to appoint Stepnell Ltd as the contractor to lead the work.
The plans have been drawn up as part of the multi-million-pound Staveley Town Deal and will see the creation of a new facility providing specialist rail industry training, research and development facilities, and commercial space for rail-related businesses.
Work on site is expected to start in early 2025.
Councillor Tricia Gilby, leader of Chesterfield Borough Council and vice chair of the Staveley Town Deal Board, said: “This is a really exciting, landmark project that will create new opportunities for local people to access high-quality skills and jobs, while bolstering Chesterfield’s position as a leading destination for future innovation and investment in the rail sector.
“The DRIIVe project will also play a key role in the emerging East Midlands Investment Zone (EMIZ) with its focus on advanced manufacturing and green technology industries, by attracting the rail sector and associated supply chain to the nearby Chesterfield EMIZ sites.
“It’s great to see the project continue to gather pace, and we look forward to working with the contractor, and our partners, to progress construction of DRIIVe early next year. The facility will be completed by the end of 2025.”
Tom Sewell, regional director at Stepnell, said: “The DRIIVe project adds to our public sector expertise of infrastructure and education projects, and will enhance our partnership with Chesterfield Borough Council as part of the Staveley Town Deal.
“Through committing to delivering early community engagement in the project, the specialist facility will be built to the highest standards of railway training and have an important impact on developing talent in STEM in the region.”
The project will see the creation of 22 job opportunities for local people and a hub from which to increase awareness of rail-related career opportunities, developing STEM skills required to access the industry through a community outreach programme that will support 1,000 individuals each year.
Ivan Fomin, Chair of the Staveley Town Deal, said: “This is a scheme delivered locally but of national significance, which will open the door to new, high-quality skills and career opportunities for people in Staveley – something which is right at the heart of what we are aspiring to achieve as part the Town Deal programme.
“It’s the latest positive news for Staveley, with our Town Deal projects really gathering pace, and almost all now being delivered on site. This is a fantastic achievement involving lots of different partners, and people will soon start to see the impact of these projects in their communities. Staveley will truly be a place to start, stay and grow.”
The DRIIVe project is being delivered by Chesterfield Borough Council in collaboration with the University of Derby, Chesterfield College and Barrow Hill Engine Shed Society.
Mervyn Allcock, Manager of the Barrow Hill Roundhouse and Staveley Town Deal Board member, said: “This is a project of national significance for the Rail sector, and we are so proud to be creating this fantastic facility here at Barrow Hill.
“The siting of these state-of-the-art innovation and research facilities right next to this amazing venue of international significance will greatly benefit the area and improve the quality of life of local people.”
DRIIVe will include classroom and workshop training areas, specialist research and development facilities including a digital laboratory, and commercial offices.
The centre will support a network of specialist training providers – offering rail-related education from level two through to postgraduate training and research.
Becoming a prominent location for rail technology, DRIIVe will also serve as a base for rail-related supply chain businesses which will have access to the very latest research and innovation.
Funding for the project is mostly being provided through the Staveley Town Deal – the Staveley area was one of 101 towns across England invited to submit an investment plan to the Government’s Towns Fund and received £25.2 million.
Rushcliffe businesses invited to apply for up to £500 of low carbon grants
Small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and sole traders across Rushcliffe can now apply for low carbon grants of up to £500, to help them improve their energy efficiency and reduce their carbon footprint.
Rushcliffe Borough Council’s (RBC) Low Carbon Grant is supported by the UK government through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund (UKSPF) and will assist businesses to make more sustainable upgrades to their premises.
Examples of changes which could reduce energy costs and improve efficiency include:
- replacing lightbulbs with LED lighting
- fitting secondary glazing
- upgrading insulation
- installing smart meters or thermostats
- installing low flow taps & toilet measures
- upgrading heating with air curtains
- Carbon Literacy for SMEs on Tuesday January 21, from 9am to 5pm, online
- Low-Cost Carbon Cuts: Affordable Tech, Savvy Procurement, and Smart Behaviour on Wednesday January 22, from 10am to 11am, online
- Net Zero Journey: Understanding & Implementing Carbon Reduction Planning with Science-Based Targets on Wednesday February 5 from 10am to 11am, online
- How environmental responsibility can bring your business alive on Thursday February 6 from 10am to 11am, online
Revamp completes for historic Leicester hotel and shopping street
Main works to revamp one of Leicester’s busiest shopping streets and refurbish the street-facing ground floor of the landmark Grand Hotel building are now complete.
Leicester City Council has carried out a range of improvements to part of Granby Street – between Dover Street and Belvoir Street – to create more space for cyclists and pedestrians and the potential for outdoor café-style seating areas.
Former pay-and-display parking bays – which have been out of use for more than three years – have now been converted into wider, high-quality footpaths and cycleways to help improve the route between the railway station and the city centre. The main carriageway, which is still open to general traffic, has also been completely resurfaced.
New on-street parking bays have been created on nearby Chatham Street, York Street and Calais Street.
The works are part of wider, ongoing heritage-led investment to improve the shopping environment on Granby Street.
This includes the refurbishment of the Grade II-listed Grand Hotel’s street-facing ground floor and historic shopfronts, which have undergone a year-long revamp and renovation programme as part of Historic England’s High Street Heritage Action Zones.
The shopfronts that line the hotel building’s Granby Street ground level have been restored to as close to the building’s original design as possible, using sustainable hardwood and toughened glass.
Recessed doorways have been fitted with bespoke iron gates and all shops now have new signage that complements the architectural heritage of the building.
Improvements have been made to the hotel’s oriel windows and balcony. The distinctive canopy above the Grand Hotel’s main Granby Street entrance has also been restored to its former glory.
The work was funded by a £700,000 award from the High Street Heritage Action Zones programme, with the hotel owners contributing a further £200,000 towards the costs.
City Mayor Peter Soulsby said: “The Grand Hotel is a fine example of Leicester’s Victorian past and the city’s rich architectural heritage. With support from Historic England, this landmark building and its historic shopfronts have been restored to their former glory.
“Alongside this, we have made major improvements to this part of Granby Street, creating more space for pedestrians and for outdoor café-style seating along this important and well-used gateway into the city centre.
“It is important that we continue to invest in these sorts of ambitious improvement schemes, working with property owners and businesses to improve shopfronts, preserve the architectural heritage of our historic buildings, and help ensure our shopping streets continue to be welcoming and attractive places to visit and enjoy.
“We have seen how this approach can be a catalyst to transform areas like the Old Town and help attract millions of pounds of private investment into the city centre.”
Andrew Pring asset and investment manager at Jupiter Hotels, the owners of the Grand Hotel, said: “We are delighted with the improvements made to the façade of the hotel and would like to thank all those that have been involved with this project.
“Work has now commenced to completely refurbish the internal areas of the hotel with all 104 bedrooms being extensively upgraded along with all the public areas. We are looking forward to reopening the hotel and welcoming guests in the spring of 2025.”
Louise Brennan, Historic England Regional Director (Midlands), said: “The Grand Hotel scheme is a brilliant example of how heritage can contribute to the regeneration of our towns and cities. Our past is part of our future, and it’s great to see the results of our work with Leicester City Council and the owners of the hotel.
“The restoration and public realm works are a triumph for this part of Leicester, giving new life to a Victorian icon of the city.”
Work to restore the Grand Hotel was led by Leicester-based Hickman & Smith Architects and carried out by specialist contractors Trinity. Early survey and design work was undertaken by conservation experts Conception Architects.
Improvements to Granby Street itself were carried out by the city council’s in-house team of expert stone masons and highways engineers. Final works to close off Dover Street are planned in the new year.
BRUSH supports Leicestershire children’s charity this Christmas
Leicestershire’s most disadvantaged children could receive a special gift or two this Christmas thanks to local charity Toys On The Table, supported by Loughborough-headquartered BRUSH Group.
Employees of the energy engineering solutions company have gathered together a vast collection of new toys and games for the charity to distribute to children who might otherwise not have anything to open on Christmas day.
Besides the generous gifts from its workforce, coordinated by the BRUSH sponsorship committee, the company has also contributed a substantial sum to buy even more toys, and also donated copies of Loughborough Edition Monopoly featuring BRUSH as the Electric Company.
Nicolas Pitrat, BRUSH Group CEO, said: “We first got involved with Toys On The Table last year and, having seen the positive impact the charity is making, we wanted to extend our support for this year.
“I would like to thank everybody in BRUSH who has donated to this year’s collection, and I hope our contribution goes some way to helping more children and their families to enjoy a happy Christmas.”
MP visits Derby vehicle conversions specialists
Mackworth Vehicle Conversion Specialists (VCS), part of Motus Vehicle Solutions, recently welcomed Catherine Atkinson MP, Member of Parliament for Derby North and a member of the Transport Committee, to its Derby site.
Catherine’s visit offered a chance to shine a spotlight on the people behind the work at Mackworth VCS. She met team members across the business, learning about their roles and seeing first-hand the skill that goes into each project. Her visit highlighted the dedication of the workforce and the important contributions they make to the transport sector.
Phil Taylor, Quality and Compliance Inspector at Mackworth VCS, shared his enthusiasm for the visit: “It’s not every day you see an MP taking such an active interest in what we do. It’s easy for companies like ours, tucked away on industrial estates, to be overlooked. Catherine’s visit showed she really understands the importance of businesses like ours in driving the economy and supporting the country’s infrastructure.”
A highlight of the visit was the Q&A session with Mackworth’s shop floor team. Catherine faced direct and insightful questions from employees on topics like sustainability, public transport, and local infrastructure.
Phil reflected on the discussion: “We asked her some tough questions about going green and reducing carbon footprints for businesses like ours. I even brought up the idea of hydro energy, and she told us about Darley Abbey potentially becoming the first hydro-powered town. That was such a positive response and shows she’s really thinking about innovative solutions.”
Andrew Kent, General Manager at Mackworth VCS, emphasised the value of Catherine’s visit: “It’s a privilege to welcome someone who not only listens but genuinely engages with our team. Catherine’s responses were thoughtful and honest, and she clearly recognises the critical role we play in the local economy and the transport sector.”
The challenges of public transport were also on the agenda, with Catherine addressing concerns about reduced bus routes in the Midlands.
Phil explained why this resonated with the team: “Public transport has such a big impact on people getting to work, especially when owning a car isn’t affordable for everyone. Catherine admitted she’s not happy with the current reductions in bus routes and is fighting to address this in Parliament. That honesty and commitment were really encouraging to hear.”
Peter Glover, Managing Director at Motus Vehicle Solutions, echoed the team’s sentiments: “Visits like this are so important. They strengthen the connection between policymakers and businesses like ours, giving us a platform to highlight both the challenges we face and the innovative work we’re doing to solve them. It’s inspiring to see Catherine championing priorities like sustainability and local business growth.”
The discussion also touched on traffic congestion, housing developments, and the ripple effects they have on infrastructure.
Phil commented: “One of my colleagues asked about the backlog of traffic on the A38 due to all the new housing developments. Catherine admitted she didn’t have all the answers right now, and honestly, that’s what you want to hear – it’s refreshing to see that kind of transparency from an MP.”
Catherine’s visit ended on a high note, with her praising Mackworth for its commitment to training and developing skilled workers through apprenticeships and internship programmes.
Andrew summed up the day: “This visit wasn’t just about showcasing what we do; it was about creating a real dialogue. Catherine’s interest and engagement mean a lot to us as a business, and we’re excited about the possibilities this connection could bring in the future.”
Chesterfield firm names man to drive sales in America
Steve Noel has been appointed as US General Manager, a strategic role designed to lead the expansion efforts of hot tub manufacturer Superior Wellness in the United States.
Steve previously held key roles in distribution and operations, including as Senior Operation Manager at Target Corp., where he managed operations across over 100 Target stores in the Southeast. Additionally, he spent seven years with Sleep Number Inc., overseeing essential functions in manufacturing, warehousing, and distribution. This extensive experience equips him well for his new role at Superior Wellness, where he will be instrumental in establishing and leading the company’s facility in Cameron, South Carolina.
Steve said: “I could not be prouder or more excited to join the Superior Wellness team, especially as part of launching the facility in Cameron. I’m thrilled to help build something sustainable here in the States that will drive the company’s growth for years to come. We have a beautiful facility in South Carolina that will soon be a showcase for excellence.”
In his new role, Steve will focus on building a strong foundation in warehousing and distribution at the Cameron facility, setting the stage for long-term operational excellence and sustainable growth.
Gareth Ward, Global Sales Director, added: “We are thrilled to welcome Steve to the US team. His operational expertise and leadership experience are invaluable assets as we expand our presence in the US. I look forward to working closely with Steve as we drive Superior Wellness forward.”
Entrepreneur Nathalie scoops ‘highly commended’ award
Chesterfield entrepreneur Natalie Burkinshaw has been won a ‘highly commended’ award at a ceremony celebrating female business leaders.
The founder of design agency Crush had been shortlisted as a finalist for Female Entrepreneur of the Year at the Novi Awards, dedicated to ‘championing female business leaders who are breaking barriers across the business world’.
Natalie said: “I am blown away with winning this accolade from Novi. The awards day was absolutely energising, an experience like no other for female business leaders. I had the privilege of meeting some awe-inspiring women who came from every walk of life.”
A female-owned and founded design agency, in an industry where 97% of creative directors are male, Crush has been working on branding, design and website projects for over two decades from its Chesterfield-based studio.
Having already been over the moon to have been shortlisted in the first place, Natalie came away from this year’s Novi Awards with a special prize of Highly Commended, just missing out on top spot.
The judges noted her 20 plus years of business leadership and innovation within the design sector as a significant achievement that they felt shouldn’t go unnoticed, along with her charitable activities outside of the workplace.
2025 Business Predictions: Marc Abrams, Nottingham Office Senior Partner at KPMG UK
It’s that time of year, when Business Link Magazine invites the region’s business leaders to offer up their predictions for the year ahead.
It has become something of a tradition, given that we’ve been doing this now for over 30 years.
Here we speak to Marc Abrams, Nottingham Office Senior Partner at KPMG UK.
Getting back to sustained economic growth will be a defining issue in 2025 and with the new East Midlands Combined County Authority in power, there’s plenty to play for. Access to its £4billion spending pot will help to boost growth opportunities for our region’s great businesses and universities, and bring the East Midlands onto a more equal footing with other devolution areas.
As home to some of the country’s leading manufacturers, how the East Midlands embraces the green agenda to develop its manufacturing strengths will be essential in driving change and boosting our vibrant health and agri-tech sectors. As a region, we already have much to be proud of in this space, and as the new Combined Authority grows and develops, the role of local businesses will be critical to its success.
Innovation in tech will also continue to accelerate at pace in 2025, with generative AI leading the charge both at home and in the workplace. Technology has the power to revolutionise industries across the East Midlands, and those businesses that are bold and invest in digital transformation will be best-placed to capitalise on new opportunities.
The digital economy will continue to expand, driven by e-commerce, digital payments, and online services. Every new year brings new opportunities, and ambitious businesses are already making moves to enhance their digital presence and leverage technology to reach and serve customers effectively – for those that follow suit, the sky is the limit.
Trade associations unite to call for consultation over inheritance tax changes
Collectively, these associations represent more than 160,000 family businesses, who warn that the changes to agricultural property relief and business property relief announced in the Autumn Budget will have ‘a severe and long-lasting impact on these businesses and the livelihoods of the millions of people they employ’.
In the open letter, published by Family Business UK, leaders warned that the policy changes will ‘starve’ these businesses and the economy of much-needed investment, ‘leading to forced, premature business sales and the loss of jobs in constituencies across the country’.
They add that BPR and APR ‘are not loopholes’ but measures that exist to ‘allow profitable businesses to continue trading, without penalty, when the owner dies’.
Economic impact analysis commissioned by FBUK and produced by CBI Economics has revealed that between 2026/7 – 2029/30 the changes to BPR could reduce economic activity by £9.4bn, lead to more than 125,000 job losses – including among the SMEs the government is trying to support and protect – and result in a net fiscal loss to the Exchequer of £1.25bn.
The NFU’s own impact analysis, produced in consultation with former Treasury and Office for Budget Responsibility economists, found that 75% of commercial family farms will be above the £1m threshold.
NFU President Tom Bradshaw said the Family Business UK letter further showed just how poorly thought through the inheritance tax changes were. He said: “As a signatory of the letter, alongside 31 other trade organisations representing the industry and associated businesses, we strongly echo the sentiment that the proposed tax could have far reaching consequences for the broader economy, employment and public finances.
“No one thinks this is a good policy, not even the government’s own advisers. It’s time for Treasury to listen to farmers and the multiple other organisations calling for these proposals to be opened up for consultation.”
CEO of Family Business UK Neil Davy said: “The model of family business ownership is unique. It powers the entire economy from farming to finance and everything in between. This letter, and those who have chosen to sign it, are testament to just how widespread family ownership is, and how committed we are to speak up on behalf of our members.
“Already, family business owners are taking decisions to withhold planned investments and are putting recruitment on hold.”
According to CBI Economics, family businesses mitigating the cost of a potential future Inheritance Tax bill would be most likely to reduce investment and employment leading to an:
- average reduction in investment of 16.5%
- average reduction in headcount of 10.2%
- average loss of turnover of 7.4%.
Historic Nottingham War Rooms to get new lease of life with regeneration plans submitted
Regeneration plans for Nottingham War Rooms on Chalfront Drive in Beechdale have been submitted by Aspbury Planning alongside Nottingham-headquartered practice CPMG Architects ahead of the historic, derelict site being transformed into a mixed-use community hub.
The building was originally constructed in the Cold War era as one of 17 Regional War Rooms across England and Scotland to withstand a nuclear strike, before becoming a Seat for Regional Government in the 1960s following a second phase of construction.
The structure also housed a BBC emergency broadcasting facility for use in a national emergency, prior to being used solely for storage since it was decommissioned in 1969.
Redevelopment of the 4,563 sq m, Grade II listed concrete building includes the preservation of important historic spaces developed in the 1950s and 1960s, such as the Lamson Tube Room, plant rooms and kitchen facility.
CPMG will being using its architecture and interior design expertise to transform the site into a community hub offering long-term and viable use, while including designated heritage zones.
The design plans also include exhibition spaces, media spaces, co-working and conference facilities, health and wellbeing amenities, café and restaurant, and a roof terrace.
Sara Harraway, director and interior design lead at CPMG, said: “The Nottingham War Rooms site offers an opportunity to create a truly unique destination by combining heritage, modern interior design and tangible community benefit.
“While the existing brutalist design will be loved by some and deemed not so visually appealing to others, this ‘brutal beauty’ will be set to make a real difference.
“Our plans centre around enhancing the usability of the site and the creation of a visual dialogue between past and present to respect both the functionality and the significance of the building and its place in the UK’s Cold War history.
“We’ll take a sensitive approach to the interior design, respecting it’s features and seeking to retain its character, using its colour palette, detailing and materials to influence our design development. Lighting will be a critical factor in its success, creating sensitive museum quality environments, to inspirational workspaces and desirable coffee bars and restaurants.
“Following a thorough consultation process prior to the planning submission being submitted, the scheme has come to life. It is incredibly clear how positive and influential the project will be in transforming the building, surrounding area and the local community in Beechdale – which currently does not have adequate provision of available services.
“The Nottingham War Rooms and its history may take centre stage from an outside perspective, but the most value will be gained from the way the repurposed space serves the community and educates future generations.”
The project is being led by property developer Hamilton Russell, in collaboration with landowner Homes England, and includes plans to align all work to local authority targets and environmental plans.
Regeneration and community value will be prominent within the creation of a new 104-affordable home development on the 2.1 hectares of developable land surrounding the war rooms, also being designed by CPMG and backed by East Midlands Housing Group (emh).
The current proposals have provision for two tenure types, shared ownership and social rent. 37% of the proposed homes will be allocated for shared ownership and 63% will be allocated for social rent.
Key project partner and Nottingham-based young people’s charity Base 51 is set to call the War Rooms building its new home if plans are approved, while further partners are set to be confirmed.
Craig Cameron at Hamilton Russell said: “We have been working on this project for a number of years with Nottingham Planning, and are looking forward to getting the planning submitted, and are very excited about the getting started on site in 2025.”
Science company employees raise more than £15,000 for St John Ambulance
Hundreds of science company employees turned their office canteen into a sea of Christmas jumpers as they held one of their final fundraisers wrapping up more than £15,000 in fundraising for St John Ambulance.
Staff at science company Lubrizol’s UK Technical Centre in Hazelwood, near Duffield, put on their best Christmas jumpers, antlers, Grinch outfits and sparkly headgear as a fundraiser for their current chosen charity.
Lubrizol has supported St John Ambulance for the past two years across all its UK sites: Derbyshire, Huddersfield, Blackley in Manchester and Barnsley.
Employees have thrown themselves behind a range of charity fundraisers culminating in dressing up in their festive jumper best for a Christmas meal on-site, donating to St John Ambulance as they did so.
Over two years Lubrizol employees have been raising money for the life-saving charity and will be handing it over when the final donations arrive in early 2025.
Lubrizol staff have undertaken a wide range of charity efforts to raise money for St John Ambulance over the past two years, including employee couple Claire and Tim Hollingshurst who braved blisters and tiredness to walk the whole of the 55-mile Derbyshire Heritage Way within a 24-hour timeframe. The couple and supporters raised nearly £2,000 with their efforts.
Over the past two years teams from St John Ambulance have also visited Lubrizol’s offices across the UK to deliver life-saving first aid sessions.
Across the UK, more than 30,000 cardiac arrests take place outside of a hospital setting annually. But less than one in ten people survive, often because those around them lack the skills or confidence to perform CPR, or access to a defibrillator.
When someone is in cardiac arrest their heart has stopped beating, and every minute without CPR or defibrillation reduces the chances of survival by up to 10 per cent, while early CPR and defibrillation can more than double survival rates.
Claire, who sits on Lubrizol’s charities and communities committee which co-ordinates the company’s charity fundraising each year, said: “Every year we hold our Christmas jumper day at Lubrizol and it’s nice to raise some money for our charity at the same time.
“Some people wear the same Christmas jumper each year but others like to mix it up and surprise us all with something new! One of our senior members of staff likes to wear the same turkey hat each year and it’s a mark of the festive season when we see him wearing it as he walks into the room.
“We’re very proud at Lubrizol to be able to support a new charity every two years and it’s been brilliant to raise money for St John Ambulance in 2023 and 2024. It’s a great organisation that’s saving lives. We’ll be finalising our total in 2025 ready to announce our next chosen charity.”
Pair of Northampton pharmacies sold
Specialist business property adviser, Christie & Co, has sold Delapre Pharmacy and Far Cotton Pharmacy in Northampton.
Delapre Pharmacy and Far Cotton Pharmacy are a pair of standard-hour community and health centre pharmacies that dispense a combined average of 17,500 items each month. They are located in Northampton, less than one mile apart on Gloucester Avenue and Delapre Crescent Road respectively.
The branches were previously owned by Vyas Limited for over 10 years and were brought to market to enable semi-retirement.
Following a confidential off-market sales process with Carl Steer at Christie & Co, and with funding sourced through David Ward at Christie Finance, they have been sold to Sagar Shah, who is now the proud owner of three pharmacies all bought through and funded through Christie & Co and Christie Finance.
Carl Steer, Director – Pharmacy at Christie & Co, said: “Not many first-time buyers find their ideal pharmacy close to home, but we were pleased to help Sagar achieve this 18 months ago, so to be able to help him add two more in his local area is pleasing.
“Delapre and Far Cotton pharmacies were sold off-market and offered to just a handful of likely suitors. The guide price was achieved.
“Year-on-year, not many pharmacies come to market in Northamptonshire, so it was pleasing to complete two more this year after two last year. There are many Pharmacists seeking a pharmacy business across the wider county, and we expect this strong appetite to continue in 2025.”
Delapre Pharmacy and Far Cotton Pharmacy were sold for an undisclosed price.
Regeneration plans move forward for the Hucknall area
Plans to use Nottinghamshire County Council-owned land to help boost the local economy have taken a further step forward.
This is the next phase of the Top Wighay site, near Hucknall, which the county council successfully secured outline planning permission for in 2022 and has already made substantial progress on, with the residential element of the site and the construction of the Oak House office well underway.
This next phase includes the development of land earmarked for employment use. Uses could include workshops, storage, distribution, and other employment uses that can drive local economic growth.
A specialist agency will now be commissioned by Arc Partnership, on behalf of the county council, to come up with a range of options on the potential future use for this land, including a feasibility study into the self-delivery of employment units.
Options will then be considered by the county council in early 2025.
Councillor Keith Girling, Cabinet Member for Economic Development and Asset Management, said: “We have big plans for this development to bring more jobs, skills and inward investment to the area.
“With its central location, good public transport links and being close to the M1, this site could be an attractive location for businesses.
“We are a forward-thinking council, so providing workshops or business units for SMEs could be something we could consider.
“This would not only help boost the local economy but would also help generate revenue which could be used towards other council services.
“We will carefully look into all the options available to find what is best for this site.”
A new community is being created on the overall site, including much-needed new homes led by Vistry Partnerships.
Oak House, the council’s new low carbon, all-electric office is currently under construction on the site and due for completion in 2025.
It also forms part of the wider plan to bring more jobs, skills and investment into the Hucknall area.
This new office is being designed, project and cost-managed by Arc Partnership and delivered through Arc’s construction partner, Morgan Sindall Construction.
Sara Williams, Deputy Managing Director at Arc Partnership, said: “We are pleased to be supporting Nottinghamshire County Council with the next phase of the Top Wighay site.
“The options appraisal will consider the viability of all development opportunities for the site and local economy.”
