APSS named finalists in Lincolnshire Construction and Property Awards 2025

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APSS named finalists in Lincolnshire Construction and Property Awards 2025
Commercial design and fit out company APSS has been named as finalists in both the Design Consultant of the Year and Development Project of the Year (Under £5m) categories for the Lincolnshire Construction and Property Awards 2025, cementing its reputation as a leader in innovative design and development in the region. Organised by the Lincolnshire Chamber of Commerce, the awards celebrate excellence, innovation, and sustainability in the construction and property sector. APSS’s nominations highlight its dedication to delivering creative, client-focused solutions that combine cutting-edge design with practical functionality. Recognition for Exceptional Design The nomination for Design Consultant of the Year in conjunction with Bainland Lodge Retreats, underscores APSS’s commitment to providing tailored, high-quality design services. “Our team takes immense pride in creating designs that not only look stunning but also enhance functionality and user experience,” said Laurence Barrass, Managing Director of APSS. “Being named finalists in this category is a testament to the creativity and hard work of our talented designers.” Spotlight on Development Excellence The second nomination, Development Project of the Year (under £5m), celebrates the standout project of LEW Electrical Distributors’ new headquarters in Gainsborough. It showcases APSS’s expertise in project management and execution. The project, completed earlier this year, exemplifies APSS’s ability to transform spaces while meeting the highest standards of sustainability and efficiency. Stuart Marsland, Sales Director for APSS, said: “This project truly reflects our ethos of combining visionary design with practical implementation. Being recognised in this category is a huge honour and validates the efforts of everyone involved.” Innovation and Collaboration at the Core At the heart of APSS’s success lies a dedication to fostering strong partnerships with clients and stakeholders. The company’s collaborative approach ensures that every project is tailored to the client’s unique requirements, resulting in spaces that are not only visually striking but also highly functional and future-ready. Over the past year, APSS has placed a particular emphasis on sustainable design and development, incorporating eco-friendly materials and practices into its projects. Laurence added: “We are thrilled to be finalists in these awards. It’s a reflection of the hard work, creativity, and passion that drives our entire team. At APSS, we strive to deliver excellence in everything we do, and these nominations highlight the impact we’re making in the Lincolnshire construction and property sector. Regardless of the outcome, we are incredibly proud to be recognised alongside some of the Lincolnshire’s best.”

Car repair duo secure growth funding

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Car repair duo secure growth funding
A rapidly expanding vehicle repair business has secured a £375,000 business loan from the Midlands Engine Investment Fund II, through its appointed fund manager Frontier Development Capital (FDC), to help finance its further growth after taking on a fourth site. Evolve Automotive Repair Centre – which has sites in Coventry, Birmingham and Leicester – acquired PL Carbodies in Warwick a few weeks ago. Since then it has doubled turnover at the site and increased the size of the team from six to 11. Evolve’s founders Stefan Hill and Jack Thomas plan to continue growing the business and open new sites in other Midlands cities and aim to have 10 locations within the next four years. Stefan, a former professional motorcycle racer, and Jack, who has a first-class honours in Business Management, set up Evolve four years ago when they were both aged 22. They used funding from their families to open the first site in Coventry and went on to open two further sites in 2023. Following the acquisition of PL Carbodies, they now employ a total of 40 staff across the four locations. Evolve specialises in carrying out vehicle repairs on behalf of insurers and hire firms. The new site in Warwick has accreditations from BMW and Hyundai and the company aims to gain approvals from other manufacturers for Warwick and the other sites. It is also gearing up for the switch to electric vehicles (EVs), with the Leicester site already specialising in EV repairs. Stefan Hill, Director, said: “Evolve aims to bring a modern approach to the vehicle repair trade. We recognise that having the right people is key to success and aim to offer good jobs in a safe and comfortable working environment. “We also invest in technology and training. Evolve was set up with electric vehicles in mind as we believe they are the cars of the future and we are preparing for the changes ahead. “Our business has come a long way since Jack and I were knocking on doors in Coventry. The funding from Midlands Engine Investment Fund II will support the business in the next stage of its growth.” Ryan Cartwright of FDC added: “Stefan and Jack have gone from zero to four sites in just three years, demonstrating their ability to build a successful business from scratch. “There is potential for them to grow the business further by winning new approvals and new clients and opening new sites in Midlands cities where there is a shortage of capacity for vehicle repairs. We are pleased to be able to support their growth plans.” Adam Cooksley at Navigate Commercial Finance provided fundraising advice to Evolve.

Half of Midlands businesses experienced fraud in the last five years

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Half of Midlands businesses experienced fraud in the last five years
Almost half (42%) of Midlands businesses have experienced fraud in the last five years, a new survey from accountancy and business advisory firm BDO has found. Of those businesses, 78% said they had experienced fraud in the last 12 months. Additionally, more than a quarter (29%) said they had seen multiple fraud incidents in the last year. The results come from a BDO survey of 500 directors and business owners from entities with more than 200 employees, conducted to find out directly from the business community about their experience of fraud. In response to the increased fraud risk, Midlands businesses are taking proactive steps to tackle the issue. According to the BDO survey, around a third of businesses (34%) have increased investment in IT security, with 28% spending more on fraud detection tools such as AI and data analytics. The survey shows that anti-fraud-related expenditure has increased for three-fifths of regional businesses (64%). Commenting on the findings, Sat Plaha, a partner at BDO LLP in the Midlands and Head of Regional Forensic Services, said: “Fraud remains a significant problem for individual businesses and the wider economy. Fraud losses directly impact profitability and can have catastrophic knock-on effects. “It is clear that large businesses are particularly tempting targets for fraudsters who are lured by the prospects of higher gains and attracted by the potential vulnerabilities and entry points associated with organisations with high employee numbers. “However, this year there are some definite positive trends. Anti-fraud-related expenditure is increasing compared to the previous year, with 73% of Midlands businesses investing between £100,000 and £250,000. “Following the recent introduction of the Economic Crime and Corporate Transparency Act, we hope the coming year will see all businesses enhance their anti-fraud infrastructure, continue the drive to establish more robust preventative regimes, and proactively monitor and respond to new threats as they arise.” According to the BDO report, almost half of Midlands businesses (45%) have conducted a fraud risk assessment within the last year, with 35% of companies surveyed providing fraud awareness training for employees during the same period.

Light Science Technologies “confident” as revenue grows and losses shrink

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Light Science Technologies “confident” as revenue grows and losses shrink

Derbyshire-based Light Science Technologies Holdings, comprising three divisions: Controlled Environment Agriculture (CEA); Contract Electronics Manufacturing (CEM); and Passive Fire Protection (PFP), has hailed record group revenues in a new trading update for the 12 months ended 30 November 2024.

Group revenue increased by approximately 29% to £12m for the period, up from £9.3m in the year prior, underpinned by strong trading across all divisions. Losses for the period reduced substantially to £0.2m, from £1.1m.

Light Science Technologies noted that “importantly, the business was net profitable during H2 2024, and management is expecting to sustain this momentum in FY 2025.”

Revenues from the CEM division grew by approximately 5% to £9.5m with continued strong traction from sports entertainment.

The CEA division generated revenues of £0.8m – up approximately 250% year-on-year – highlighting increased traction and the benefits of the firm’s Tomtech acquisition, which is helping drive increased cross selling opportunities.

The PFP division contributed £1.8m in sales, establishing an entirely new revenue stream for the group.

Simon Deacon, CEO of Light Science Technologies Holdings, said: “Our key focus is on continuing the profitability we have seen in H2 with increasing levels of margin contributions from PFP and CEA; and by realising further efficiency gains across the Group.

“We are an innovative business, and management has worked hard to stabilise and scale operations within growth markets. We believe that we are positioned to generate increasing levels of recurring revenue and cash and have a portfolio of well-balanced sustainable businesses that are positioned to benefit from broader market trends as we focus on long-term profitable trading.

“We have a number of exciting opportunities across all three divisions and are confident that the business will provide strong and growing returns.”

Midlands Regional Hub for Nuclear Skills launched

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Midlands Regional Hub for Nuclear Skills launched
A new Midlands Regional Hub for Nuclear Skills has been endorsed by the Nuclear Skills Delivery Board to help develop the future nuclear workforce. The Hub was launched at an event hosted by the University of Derby with Rolls-Royce as the prime sponsor.
  The government, in partnership with the civil and defence nuclear industry, are making significant long-term investments in nuclear skills, jobs and education to help the sector fill 40,000 new jobs by the end of the decade. The National Nuclear Strategic Plan for Skills (NNSPS) was launched in May 2024 to address the national nuclear skills shortage and sets out targeted action that the UK will take to ensure it has the required skills to support the UK’s nuclear ambitions. Ensuring the delivery of the NNSPS is the Nuclear Skills Executive Council (NSEC) which brings together CEOs from across key sector organisations. Key to the success of the NNSPS is the introduction of Regional Hubs that provide focal points of delivery and the opportunity to adapt to a region’s particular challenges around nuclear skills. Regional Hubs are already operational in the North West (sponsored by the Nuclear Decommissioning Authority and BAE Systems) and South West (sponsored by Babcock). Mark Rouse, Skills Director for the National Nuclear Strategic Plan for Skills (NNSPS), said: “While the Nuclear Skills Plan is a comprehensive national strategy, it must also resonate with communities across the country who are facing different skills challenges. For our joint success, we must work together, leveraging our combined strengths and capabilities. “The launch of the Midlands Hub provides an unparalleled opportunity to connect people in the Midlands and contribute to regional growth while supporting our national challenge of filling 40,000 new jobs by 2030 – doubling our current rate of recruitment – to deliver the UK’s priorities for national security, energy resilience and clean energy.” Rolls-Royce, in collaboration with the Nuclear Skills Delivery Board, is now launching the Midlands Hub to enable collaboration in the region around the nuclear skills challenge. The Hub will bring together stakeholders representing industry, learning providers and relevant local, regional and national groups. The Hub will collaborate with the NNSPS team and other Regional Hubs to ensure an effective plan of action is developed for the Midlands. Cllr Nadine Peatfield, Deputy Mayor of the East Midlands, and Leader of Derby City Council, said: “By working together, EMCCA is committed to building a future where young people in our region can develop world-class skills in nuclear energy, engineering, and green technology right here at home. “We are creating pathways for young people to get the training they need, find high-quality jobs, and build fulfilling careers without having to leave the place they know and love.” An event was held at the University of Derby’s Enterprise Centre on Thursday 28 November 2024 to mark the launch and identify interested stakeholders within the Midlands who would like to play their part in boosting nuclear skills in the region. The event included keynote speeches from organisations representing the NNSPS, East Midlands Combined County Authority (EMCCA), Derby City Council and Rolls-Royce. Lee Warren, Engineering & Technology Director, Rolls-Royce Submarines, said: “Derby is the home of Rolls-Royce and we’re proud of our Midlands roots. For over 60 years we have provided all of the nuclear reactors that power the Royal Navy’s submarine fleet from our home in Derby. “Boosting nuclear capability across the UK is critical to all of the important defence and civil programmes that this country wants to deliver and accessing regional talent is key to this. That’s why we launched our own Nuclear Skills Academy in Derby and we’re now proud to be launching the Midlands Regional Hub for Nuclear Skills.” Professor Warren Manning, Provost – Innovation and Research at the University of Derby, said: “The nuclear sector is rapidly growing and requires a skilled workforce in order to succeed. “The Midlands is at the cutting edge of engineering, manufacturing and innovation, and we are delighted to be playing a role in equipping the future workforce with the skills, experience and knowledge required.”

Derbyshire charity urges businesses to ‘adopt’ them and comfort poorly families

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Derbyshire charity urges businesses to ‘adopt’ them and comfort poorly families
Businesses have been urged to go local and make a huge impact on families going through the worst times by adopting Derbyshire’s “me&dee” as their Charity of the Year. Founded by Maria Hanson MBE, the charity is marking its 18th birthday in 2024 and helps hundreds of families a year when a life limiting or terminal condition is diagnosed. With its small team of five including Maria as its unsalaried CEO, me&dee runs a vast range of projects to provide comfort where it is most needed. These include comfort packs containing essentials for people rushed to children’s wards, who find themselves in the worst situations without supplies. The charity also gives highly valued and sensitive support to adult cancer units, palliative care departments and the children’s mortuary. Special memory making days out are organised for families facing short futures, and the charity also provides comforting ‘Hope’ the elephant keepsakes with hidden voice recorders for parents and children to leave a last memory and sound of a voice, along with support for hospital bereavement teams and a Baby Hope comfort blanket for families who have been through the agony of losing a child. Through its Continuing Care programme, me&dee also supports those who are going through – or have experienced – gruelling medical treatment, with a range of days out and activities for the whole family. These include monthly swimming sessions at Moorways in Derby for children with disabilities including dwarfism, brain tumours, cancer and amputated limbs, who are normally unable to access mainstream swimming. A regular attender is me&dee’s young ambassador, 10-year-old Taylor Lewis of Ilkeston, who has had all four limbs amputated after contracting meningitis as a baby – and who has also raised significant funds for the charity too, whilst facing five more imminent surgeries to add to the 89 he has already been through. Businesses who have adopted me&dee as their chosen charity have urged others to help make an even greater impact. Allison Kemp, managing director of Ripley-based A.I.M Commercial Services, is a big supporter of me&dee, sponsoring a monthly ‘Hope’ the elephant scheme and booking seats for its fundraising events. She said: “Having me&dee as our chosen charity works for me because it really makes a difference to so many people’s lives. You can see that your support is going somewhere.” Maria Hanson MBE said: “We are always blown away when businesses support our small charity with a big heart, and we would love to see more come forward and consider adopting us. “We know we do huge things with our small team and we can guarantee that when a business supports us, their money really does make a big difference to people who are going through some of the worst times. “Swimming sessions at Moorways cost hundreds of pounds a month but to see the smiles on the faces of children who otherwise wouldn’t be able to go into a public pool just melts our hearts – and that’s just one activity amongst dozens that we very carefully arrange. These are invaluable also for peer support for both children and parents. “We make sure we help the whole family too – as we know how often siblings can suffer when one child is receiving intense medical treatment. That’s why the treats we organise benefit everyone in the family. “Hope the Elephant provides such comfort to so many. She has helped grieving mothers when her voice recorder has kept precious last words and sounds of their loved ones. “From the bottom of our hearts, when businesses are considering which charity to support with Christmas approaching, please do think about me&dee. We promise your support will be appreciated. It will not go unnoticed and it will make a huge impact.” Shaun Jones, founder of Nottingham-based SJ Coaching & Advisory Ltd, provides a monthly sponsorship of “Hope” the elephant and regularly attends the charity’s annual charity golf days at Matlock Golf Club, often inviting clients to join him in supporting the cause. Shaun explained: “me&dee isn’t just a charity—it’s a lifeline for people who need immediate, meaningful support. Maria’s dedication is truly inspiring, and the personal, heartfelt impact me&dee delivers resonates deeply with my business principles of making a difference. “Supporting me&dee allows me to give back in a way that feels personal and impactful. ‘Hope’ the elephant brings comfort to families during incredibly challenging times. The charity’s work is unique, special, and deeply personal, and it’s a privilege to be part of their journey.” Shelly Orrill works for global company Pearce Signs, also a supporter of me&dee. The team at Pearce Signs organised a special ball for 100 people in aid of the charity, as well as sponsoring ‘Hope’. She said: “We just can’t believe the amount of work that me&dee does with such a small team. They have been going for 18 years and don’t get any funding. They work for the whole family giving people their support. They’re still in touch with people they helped in their first year. “You just don’t realise what people go through until you meet some of the families who have been helped through me&dee. “As a business, doing something for somebody else gives you such a good feeling. It feels great to support a charity that is helping so many people.”

Councils get powers to tackle the scourge of empty shops with ‘right to rent’ scheme

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Councils get powers to tackle the scourge of empty shops with ‘right to rent’ scheme
High streets could be revitalised as the government hands councils new powers to tackle the scourge of empty shops. From this week local authorities will be able to auction off leases for commercial properties that have been empty for long periods, helping bring business back to the high street and drive growth across the country. High Street Rental Auctions will create a ‘right to rent’ for businesses and community groups, giving them access to city, town and village centre sites. The changes will stop disengaged landlords sitting on empty lots for more than 365 days in a 24-month period, before councils can auction a one-to-five year lease. With growth a key mission for the government, it is committing over £1m in funding to support the auction process, which will create jobs for local people and boost trade by bringing local businesses back to the heart of our communities. Local Growth Minister Alex Norris said: “High streets lie at the heart of communities the length and breadth of this country. But in many areas, they are not what they used to be. “Small businesses need our support and that’s why we are creating a ‘right to rent’ so that high street lots that have been left empty for far too long can be brought back to life. We want shops and shoppers back on the high street – and that’s what these changes will help to bring.”

Let’s hear it for the girls: Derby-based finance organisation partners with UK Export Finance

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Let’s hear it for the girls: Derby-based finance organisation partners with UK Export Finance
UK Export Finance and Derby-based Female Founder Finance are working together to help more women-owned businesses get export finance support to help grow their business and compete on the international stage. Female Founder Finance, launched in June last year, has handed £115m in funding to women who have founded their own businesses and who have been disadvantaged when seeking access to finance. The partnership between UKEF and Female Founder Finance will streamline the process for referring eligible businesses into one another’s financing programmes, therefore reducing missed opportunities for women owners. For example, Female Founder Finance can introduce their clients to UKEF’s short-term products for small exporters, including capital guarantees, bond support guarantees and export insurance policies. In turn, UKEF can refer female clients to Female Founder Finance where appropriate. According to the Rose Review, only six percent of UK women run their own businesses, compared to around 15% of women in Canada, almost 11% of women in the USA, and over nine percent of women in Australia and the Netherlands. The report also estimates £250 billion could be added to the UK economy if women matched men in receiving business investment. Tim Reid, CEO of UK Export Finance, said: “Supporting small businesses is a priority at UKEF. Each year we support a large number of small businesses. Just last year, 88% of businesses to which we provided a loan, guarantee or insurance were small or medium-sized businesses.  By partnering up with Female Founder Finance we will reach out to more women-owned businesses, providing financing to support them to increase their exporting capacity. Roxanne Goodman, Founder of Female Founder Finance, which operates from Pride Park in the city, said: “By working in partnership with UK Export Finance we can equip women-led businesses with the knowledge and funding they need, and empowering them to reach new international markets, fuelling growth and innovation through export finance, and adding back to the growth of the UK. Together, we can open doors to new markets, drive innovation, and ensure that the voice of women entrepreneurs resonates worldwide.”

Workspace transformation for Promethean Particles

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Workspace transformation for Promethean Particles
Derby-based design, refurbishment and fit-out experts, DSP (Interiors) Ltd, have completed a significant transformation project for Promethean Particles, a chemical manufacturing company headquartered in Nottingham. This project transformed a mezzanine floor, previously only used for storage, into a functional and efficient workspace. Promethean Particles Ltd, renowned for its innovative approach to chemical manufacturing, wanted to upgrade its workspace to support its growing team and operations. The project involved a comprehensive reconfiguration of the mezzanine area, starting with the installation of fire-rated partitions to define the office layout and ensure compliance with safety standards. To improve access and functionality, the existing staircase was removed and reconstructed, seamlessly integrating it into the new design. Advanced mechanical and electrical systems were implemented to provide optimal lighting, ventilation, air conditioning and connectivity throughout the space, while the addition of a ceiling grid with quilt insulation enhanced both acoustic performance and temperature control. The transformation was completed with the specification and installation of ergonomic furniture, chosen to complement the modern design and create a workspace that enhances productivity. Darren Ward, director at DSP (Interiors) Ltd, said: “We are thrilled to have partnered with Promethean Particles on this exciting project. Our team worked closely with their vision to create a tailored workspace that enhances their operations whilst reflecting their innovative approach. “This project reinforces our commitment to delivering high-quality, innovative solutions tailored to our clients’ individual needs. We wish the team at Promethean Particles the best in their new space.” James Stephenson, chief executive officer of Promethean Particles, added: “The DSP team have done a brilliant job! We’re thrilled with the transformation of our mezzanine space – it’s modern, practical and perfectly aligned with our needs.”

CWA welcomes new Account Director as latest strategic appointment

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CWA welcomes new Account Director as latest strategic appointment
Leicester-based B2M full-service agency, CWA, has appointed Dan Holdsworth as Account Director within its Account Management team. Holdsworth brings a wealth of experience from a career that spans digital marketing, brand communications, and client-side leadership roles. His background includes working as Digital Marketing Manager for Derby County Football Club, two years as an Account Director at Linney Create, and serving as Head of Marketing at RST Moto. Most recently, Holdsworth was Brand Communications Manager at TravisMathew (Callaway Golf), where he managed major brand and product campaigns across multiple markets. The appointment of Holdsworth is the latest step in a period of strategic growth for the long-established international agency. This year CWA has bolstered its team with high-profile appointments across key areas, including David Leatham, at the beginning of the year, as Media and Communications Director, followed by Sam Ard as Media and Communications Manager, Mariam Malik as Media and Communications Executive, Tracey Whiskens as SEO Lead, Carl Perkins as Business Development Director, and Adam Spencer as Junior Artworker. Nicola Adams, Managing Director at CWA, said: “This year has been a transformative one for CWA, as we continue to build a team of outstanding professionals who strengthen our capabilities and enhance the agency services we offer. I’m really pleased with all of the appointments we’ve made during 2024. “We’re on track for very big 2025. Dan’s appointment is an important part of that journey… His diverse experience and strong track record in managing campaigns and building brand presence are a perfect fit for CWA and our ambitions as an agency. He’s settled in brilliantly already and I’m excited to have him onboard.” Holdsworth said: “I loved the background and long established history of CWA, but I was equally impressed by the strategic vision for the future outlined by Nicola. It’s exciting to join the agency at such an exciting time and I’m already enjoying the experience, including reaching out to my connections across many different sectors.”

Nottingham Energy Institute in £5m collaboration to scale climate start-ups

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Nottingham Energy Institute in £5m collaboration to scale climate start-ups
The University of Nottingham is set to be part of a new collaborative network, dedicated to enhancing and developing business support and technical ecosystems focused on climate start-ups.
The UK is set to receive a serious boost in its fight against climate change with the launch of the Climate Scaling Collaborative, a pioneering initiative to support IP-rich start-ups and spin-outs with links to universities, working on solutions for climate mitigation and adaptation. The Climate Scaling Collaborative will provide robust support to 60 businesses, helping them develop from initial funding to commercial deployment. Covering multiple industries, these businesses will be sourced from across the UK university ecosystem with the support of a wide network of partner organisations. Backed by £5m from the Research England Development Fund, the Collaborative unites UK universities Imperial, Cranfield University, the University of Derby, the University of Exeter, the University of Leeds and the University of Nottingham to provide the critical support required by deep tech climate innovators in the scale-up phase. The funding was announced by Professor Dame Jessica Corner, Executive Chair of Research England at an event hosted by TenU celebrating a year since the launch of the government’s review of university spinouts. The Collaborative will create a regional hub at each partner university, enhancing and developing business support and technical ecosystems focused on climate start-ups. These hubs will build local relationships and specific expertise on potential clients, partners or collaborators, turbocharging the journey from start-up to scale-up. Through the Collaborative, these local hubs will form an interlinked network across the UK. Professor David Grant, Director of the University of Nottingham Energy Institute, said: “This new Climate Scaling Collaborative will see our climate related research backed up by expertise in knowledge exchange and commercialisation. We’re are excited to see this timely new initiative take shape and look forward to working with our new partners.”

Golden seat marks milestone at Becketwell Live

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Golden seat marks milestone at Becketwell Live
Derby’s Becketwell Live has moved a step closer to completion as the final auditorium seat was fixed into place with a ‘golden’ seat made for the occasion. Main Contractor Bowmer + Kirkland (B+K), developer St James’ Securities, building owner Derby City Council and venue management company ASM Global were there to mark the occasion and joined by a selection of representatives from B+K’s supply chain who had all worked together to get the project to this stage. With the handover date of January 2025 only seven weeks away, the £45.8m venue is almost ready to welcome entertainment seekers from across the city and the wider East Midlands. Work between now and practical completion includes testing and commissioning, including 150 acoustic tests. The main auditorium has flat floor seating, a lower tier of retractable bleacher seating, an upper tier of fixed seating and there is a ring of VIP seating on the central and side balconies – enabling a capacity audience of 3,500 to enjoy the range of concerts, family and comedy shows, theatre performances, and more that the venue will host. Investing back into the local area has been at the heart of the project. Of the 1,424 people who have worked on site, 51% are from within 20 miles of Derby and over the span of the whole project, £5.3m has been spent within the local area. The project has supported 36 apprentices and T-Level students equating to 506 weeks of on-the-job training. Robert Kirkland, Bowmer + Kirkland Life President, said: “Becketwell Live has been an important scheme for us all. It has continued a long-standing relationship we have with the city of Derby, it will bring vibrancy and much-needed commerce to this area of the city and we are all very proud to have been part of this exciting development.” Paul Morris, Development Director at St James Securities, said: “We are thrilled to see the Becketwell Live entertainment, events and conference venue reach this important milestone. This project represents a significant step forward in revitalising Derby’s city centre and providing a state-of-the-art facility that will serve the people of Derby and the wider region. “We are proud to have created a scheme that will bring new energy to the city and provide a platform for a diverse range of performances and events. “This is an exciting moment for Derby, and we look forward to seeing the venue open its doors in 2025.” Councillor Nadine Peatfield, Leader of Derby City Council and Cabinet Member for City Centre, Regeneration, Strategy and Policy, said: “Installing the final seat is a huge and very exciting step in the Becketwell journey, bringing us closer to realising our vision of transforming Derby into vibrant city centre that puts culture at the forefront. “We’re looking forward to welcoming audiences from across the region into the city centre to enjoy a variety of performances and functions, with tickets already on sale for some of next year’s shows. A huge thanks to all of our partners and everyone involved for getting us to this stage in the journey – the final seat is in place but this is just the beginning for Becketwell Live.” Marcus Sheehan, Manager at ASM Global, said: “The installation of the final seat is a major milestone bringing us one step closer to opening our doors to the people of Derby. We’ve already begun announcing our first confirmed events for 2025 and beyond here at Becketwell, featuring live music, comedy, and more. “The future here is bright, and we’re committed to delivering the very best guest experiences and unforgettable live entertainment. I look forward to seeing you all in a packed-out auditorium very soon!”

JCDecaux UK awarded council’s digital advertising contract

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JCDecaux UK awarded council’s digital advertising contract
Nottingham City Council has awarded JCDecaux UK a 15-year bus shelter and free-standing digital advertising contract following a competitive tender. The contract not only provides the council with income from digital advertising screens, but it also includes a refurbishment of bus shelters and the introduction of smart technology benefits like free public Wi-Fi and real-time air quality monitoring. Nottingham is the eighth largest city in England in terms of catchment population and retail spend – a vibrant business and leisure hub in the East Midlands. The new contract will provide advertisers with a new city-wide network of ‘Out of Home’ digital 6-sheet screens, providing a new opportunity for local, national and international advertising clients. The digital network will comprise 30 free-standing units (60 screens) and 75 bus shelter screens as well as ‘classic’ paper poster sites. All 800 bus shelters will be totally refurbished and rebranded in the city’s ‘Robin Hood Network’ livery and will include energy-efficient LED lighting helping to work towards the city’s carbon-neutral goals. JCDecaux will be introducing ‘smart city’ tech to the city centre, providing free Wi-Fi and air-quality monitors across the city centre, enabling the council to access real-time air quality information across the city via an app – all funded by advertising. Aligned with the council’s climate strategy, the high-quality design and robust maintenance of JCDecaux’s bus shelters means they will be refurbished when the new contract begins in January 2025 – reducing greenhouse gas emissions by an estimated 90% compared to the installation of replacement street furniture. JCDecaux will also fund a range of important environmental and community initiatives, paid for by the advertising network. This includes financial support for the Mayor’s Charity, local community group funding as well as supporting city University research projects and city-wide biodiversity initiatives. Councillor Neghat Khan, Leader of Nottingham City Council and Executive Member for Strategic Regeneration, Transport and Communications, said: “Congratulations to JCDecaux on getting this contract after a thorough tender process. We’ve worked with them in Nottingham for many years and look forward to continuing this partnership. “It’s important that the bus stops and shelters in Nottingham are well-maintained and use the latest technology. The digital screens in the city centre provide advertising space for local and national companies, which also brings in extra income for the council.” Phil Drye, Chief Commercial Development Officer at JCDecaux UK, said: “Nottingham is a dynamic city and we are very proud that Nottingham City Council has again placed its trust in JCDecaux UK, continuing our relationship that spans over 20 years. “Our bus shelters are designed with high-quality materials and maintained and cleaned to the highest standards. We are looking forward to delivering this new contract for Nottingham City Council and local residents, which will include digital screens and ‘smart city’ technology to bring innovative public services to the city.” The digital screen network is set to include the main retail and business hubs of: Beastmarket Hill, Carrington Street, Clumber Street, Lister Gate, Milton Street and Upper and Lower Parliament Street.

Bambinos & Beyond expands with letting at Maltings Industrial Estate

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Bambinos & Beyond expands with letting at Maltings Industrial Estate
Rushton Hickman has let Unit 5 Maltings Industrial Estate to Bambinos & Beyond, a retailer specialising in new, ex-display and preloved baby and nursery items. It comes as Bambinos & Beyond expands its operations and now occupies a total of three units marketed by Rushton Hickman. Bambinos & Beyond required additional storage space to accommodate their expansion. The newly acquired unit, with a gross internal area of 2,264 sq ft, is located on Maltings Industrial Estate, less than two miles from Burton upon Trent town centre and close to Bambinos & Beyond’s existing units at Albion Gateway. Jade Martin, Associate Director at Rushton Hickman, said: “Working with Bambinos & Beyond has been a pleasure and we are thrilled to welcome them to the Maltings Industrial Estate, which is an ideal location for their growing business.” Jade continued: “We believe this unit offers the necessary space to enhance their operations and meet increasing customer demand. This letting exemplifies the confidence that businesses like Bambinos & Beyond have in both the properties we have available and the service that Rushton Hickman so proudly delivers.”

Castle Donington software provider reaches agreement on £36m acquisition

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Castle Donington software provider reaches agreement on £36m acquisition

K3 Business Technology Group has reached agreement with SYSPRO, a Castle Donington-based ERP software provider, for the sale of the Group’s wholly owned subsidiary, NexSys.

NexSys is a leading SYSPRO elite partner in the UK and has over 40 years’ experience of providing and supporting specialised business software solutions to manufacturers and distributors.

Under the terms of the agreement, the total consideration for NexSys is £36 million.

Jaco Maritz, Chief Executive Officer of SYSPRO, said: “SYSPRO, an Advent and Safari company, believes that NexSys is a compelling strategic fit given the company’s position as a trusted provider of digital solutions to manufacturing and distribution companies across the UK and Europe.

“The carve-out acquisition is a key milestone in Safari’s SYSPRO strategy to expand its global footprint, strengthening its presence in the UK and extending its reach across Europe. The acquisition will also enable SYSPRO to expand its highly regarded digital manufacturing suite with new products and capabilities.

“Safari believes there are further initiatives that would help accelerate its existing strategy and which it intends to confirm after a detailed review of the business and operations following Completion. Safari and SYSPRO attaches great importance and value to the skills, experience and commitment of the existing management and employees of NexSys.”

Eric Dodd, Chief Executive Officer of K3 Business Technology Group plc, said: “As the UK and Ireland’s largest reseller of SYSPRO software, our NexSys business is a superb fit for Advent, and we are delighted to have reached this agreement.

“Advent is a leading technology investor and its purchase of NexSys is a natural next step following its recent acquisition of a majority holding in SYSPRO. Advent has the resources and market experience to more fully capitalise on NexSys’s strategic value.

“We view the proposed sale as an excellent outcome for K3 shareholders, NexSys, and Advent and recommend that shareholders vote in favour the proposed sale at the Company’s General Meeting in December.”

How to plan an expansion to your business in the East Midlands

Tess Egginton
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How to plan an expansion to your business in the East Midlands
Expanding your business can be a significant step toward achieving long-term growth and profitability. For businesses in the East Midlands, this process comes with unique opportunities and challenges, from navigating the regional market to ensuring financial stability. A well-structured plan is essential to ensure your expansion journey is smooth and successful. This guide will walk you through practical steps to help you prepare for growth while taking full advantage of the opportunities within the East Midlands. Evaluating Readiness for Expansion Before planning an expansion, it’s crucial to assess whether your business is ready to take this step. Start by evaluating your financial stability. Review your profit margins, revenue trends, and existing cash flow to ensure that your current operations are sustainable. Key performance indicators (KPIs) like customer retention rates and sales growth can provide valuable insights into your readiness. Operational capacity is another vital consideration. Ask yourself whether your current processes and infrastructure can scale efficiently. Expansion is only viable if your business is stable and adaptable enough to meet increased demand. Researching Market Opportunities Understanding the East Midlands market is critical to a successful expansion. Research consumer behaviour and preferences within the region to identify growth opportunities. For example, pinpoint areas where demand for your products or services is rising or where competitors may not be adequately serving the market. Analysing the competition is equally important. Study how established businesses operate and consider what differentiates your offering. This research will help you identify underserved niches or refine your strategy to make your expansion more competitive. Developing a Financial Plan Financial planning is the backbone of any expansion. Start by estimating the costs involved, including new hires, marketing campaigns, and potential property expenses. Create a detailed budget that outlines these costs and establishes clear spending limits. This is also the stage to explore funding options. Many businesses turn to small business loans to manage cash flow effectively during periods of growth. These loans can provide the financial flexibility needed to cover upfront costs while your expansion generates returns. For example, small business loans to boost cash flow are a practical tool for maintaining stability while investing in growth opportunities. Selecting the Right Location For businesses expanding within the East Midlands, choosing the right location can make all the difference. Consider factors like accessibility, customer proximity, and local infrastructure when selecting a site. The region offers a variety of commercial spaces suitable for businesses of all sizes. Engaging with Local Resources and Networks The East Midlands is home to numerous resources that can support your expansion. Regional business associations and chambers of commerce provide valuable networking opportunities and access to industry-specific advice. These organisations often host events where you can connect with potential partners or clients. Additionally, explore local grants and support programmes designed for growing businesses. Many regional initiatives are aimed at fostering economic growth and can offer financial or logistical assistance during your expansion. Ensuring Legal and Compliance Readiness Expanding your business involves navigating various legal and regulatory requirements. Review contracts, permits, and tax obligations to ensure compliance with regional laws. If you’re opening a new location, check zoning regulations and other local ordinances. Staying proactive about compliance protects your business and builds trust with customers and stakeholders. Adapting to Regional Consumer Trends Every region has its unique consumer preferences, and the East Midlands is no exception. Understanding the demographics, purchasing habits, and preferences of the local population can help tailor your products or services to meet their needs. Invest time in conducting surveys, focus groups, or market analysis to ensure your offerings resonate with potential customers. Pay attention to cultural and seasonal trends specific to the region. For example, aligning your product launches or marketing efforts with regional events or festivals can significantly boost engagement and sales during your expansion. Preparing for Contingencies No expansion plan is complete without contingency measures. Anticipate potential challenges, such as supply chain disruptions, unexpected expenses, or slower-than-expected growth, and create backup strategies to address them. Regularly reviewing your plans and adapting to changing conditions ensures your business remains resilient throughout the expansion. Investing in Employee Development A successful expansion relies heavily on the people driving it. Supporting your employees through training and development opportunities ensures they are equipped to manage the challenges of growth. From leadership development programmes for managers to upskilling frontline staff, investing in your workforce pays off in productivity and morale. Planning an expansion in the East Midlands offers exciting possibilities for businesses looking to grow. With careful preparation, your business can thrive in its next phase of growth.

Derbion unveils updated plans to revitalise key sites

Tess Egginton
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Derbion unveils updated plans to revitalise key sites
Updated plans for the potential development of three key sites within Derbion’s footprint will be unveiled at a public exhibition this week. The Derbion Masterplan is a framework for the long-term development of under-used land that will complement and support the existing centre and its significant position within Derby. It is a starting point for exploring future opportunities over the next 10 years and beyond, that will benefit both Derbion and the ongoing regeneration of Derby City Centre. Plans were originally presented in 2022 and considered the potential of two sites, Eagle Quarter and Bradshaw Way. They have now been updated with a revised layout and reduction in height of the proposed buildings. A third site, the Riverside Quarter, is also included. Planning permission has already been granted for the Eastern Gateway project, which forms the first phase of the proposed Eagle Quarter development. Work is now underway to create a new public square on the corner of East Street and Morledge and provide an enhanced gateway to the city from the bus station. The Derbion Masterplan proposes how the rest of the Eagle Market site could be developed for around 500 new homes and commercial uses, within a framework of green, accessible routes and new public spaces. The updated plans for the Eagle Quarter also include the retention of Derby Theatre, providing a green cultural square at the heart of the project. The proposals for Bradshaw Way include around 480 new homes and commercial space around landscaped public areas, transforming the gateway site and improving links to the Nightingale Quarter. Following the closure of the Riverside car park last year, the masterplan has been extended to encompass the Riverside Quarter, presenting an opportunity to provide around 380 new homes with new public spaces and walkable streets that will improve connections towards the river and into the rest of the city centre. Commenting on the masterplan proposals, Beth McDonald, Managing Director at Derbion said: “As Derbion continues to attract leading retail and leisure brands, our position in the heart of the Derby means that we have an important opportunity to evolve and develop our wider footprint to improve the vitality of the city centre and increase connectivity. “The masterplan proposals are a framework for development over the next 10 years and beyond to revitalise three key sites that will support the wider regeneration of Derby and attract and engage more people to visit and explore the city.” An exhibition of the masterplan proposals will be open to the public on Level 2 of Derbion, opposite Zara, on Thursday 5th December from 11am to 4pm and Friday 6th December from 11am to 3pm.

Internationally experienced employment lawyer joins Michael Cummins Employment Solicitors

Tess Egginton
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Internationally experienced employment lawyer joins Michael Cummins Employment Solicitors
Internationally experienced employment lawyer Kate Cauldwell-Hunt has joined the specialist law firm Michael Cummins Employment Solicitors as its new senior associate. It’s a professional reunion for Kate and her new firm’s founder Michael Cummins, who worked together at Gateley more than 20 years ago. After training and qualifying as a solicitor at Gateley, Kate worked as an employment lawyer, including at Averta Employment Lawyers, before moving to Pinsent Masons Vario where Kate worked both in the UK and then in Singapore where she led on the provision of flexible legal services for the international firm Pinsent Masons. As an account director for Pinsent Masons Vario, Kate managed the recruitment and deployment of lawyers and other legal professionals for assignments with the firm’s clients or internally within Pinsent Masons. Latterly Kate managed recruitment of lawyers and business services professionals for the London office of another international law firm, Clyde & Co. Now the solicitor has joined the seven-strong Leicestershire-based Michael Cummins Employment Solicitors which since 2022 has provided employers with advice and representation on all aspects of employment law. Michael said: “It is wonderful to welcome Kate to our firm more than 20 years after watching her set out on what has become an impressive career of great variety in location and expertise. “I know she is looking forward to getting back into the thick of employment law here in the UK and in a setting where she is a key player in a focussed team with a collegiate feel and our approach to providing high quality work for our family of clients. “It is also exciting for us to welcome Kate just a month after her fellow new senior associate Katie Baker-Clifton. Their arrival is a significant step forward for our firm.” Kate said: “I am delighted to have the opportunity to work with Mike again and excited to be working with such a friendly and welcoming team. It is a privilege to work with this team with its fantastic reputation and wealth of experience.”

UK’s ‘critical £1.3 trillion mid-market’ can be engine of growth for East Midlands economy

Tess Egginton
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UK’s ‘critical £1.3 trillion mid-market’ can be engine of growth for East Midlands economy
Mid-market corporates (MCCs) play a significant role across the East Midlands jobs market, employing nearly a quarter of the workforce. And a new report issued by NatWest, in partnership with Oliver Wyman and supported by the Business Secretary, Jonathan Reynolds MP has identified that UK mid-market businesses have an oversized impact on the UK economy, are particularly important to regional economies and are the unsung engine of the economy:
  • c.13,000 of these businesses exist across the UK;
  • while being only 0.5% of the total number of UK companies each MMC business contributes the equivalent of 200 SMEs to the economy;
  • every year they contribute £1.3 trillion of turnover and £420 billion of Gross Value Added (GVA) to the economy, nearly one third of all companies;
  • with the correct support, MMCs could contribute an additional £115bn to turnover and £35bn of GVA by 2030. For areas outside of London and the South East, the growth potential could be up to £70bn and £24bn for turnover and GVA respectively, and
  • employ 7.3 million Britons – 26% of the total and are essential employers across the UK’s regions.
Supporting the UK’s regions MMCs are crucial to regional economies, often employing a large proportion of their local community. As well as employing 24% of the East Midlands’ workforce, they contribute significantly to employment in the West Midlands (26%), North East England (23%), Yorkshire and the Humber (27%) and Scotland (27%). In aggregate they employ more than 1.2 million more individuals than large non-financial corporates. MMCs are also present across all sectors, with 20-30% share of turnover in most industries. MMCs form a higher proportion of the education sector, including many universities and private schools, and the property sector, while being less present in retail and agriculture. Unlocking MMCs growth potential Through consultation with over 2,000 of these businesses, the report has identified five challenges mid-market businesses need support to overcome from government, financial institutions and partners to unlock growth. If these challenges are addressed, it is estimated that the mid-market segment could benefit from an uplift in turnover of £115bn, adding an additional £35bn of gross value add (GVA) to the economy by 2030. For areas outside of London and the South East, the growth potential could be up to £70bn in turnover and £24bn in gross value add. The top 5 challenges are:
  1. Insufficient access to skills – MMCs struggle to fill vacancies at every level (specialist and entry level) and the problem is getting worse;
  2. Infrastructure and planning restrictions – MMCs are typically more regionally based, limitations in regional infrastructure (e.g., housing, rail/bus links, grid connectivity, broadband) disproportionally affects this segment. Compounded by problems with the planning system;
  3. Complexity growing faster than their capacity – the level of complexity can exponentially increase as they establish new business lines, enter new markets or breach thresholds for regulation or red tape;
  4. Lack of self-identity and collective profile – MMCs do not self identify as a distinct segment (unlike the German Mittelstand), and therefore cannot collectively advocate for additional support and policies which would enable growth;
  5. Lack of data and transparency – this segment loses in terms of policy support and other targeted measures as the lack of data means it is difficult for public and private sector stakeholders to understand the importance of the MMC segment to the economy and define policy and other targeted measures to support growth and productivity.
Supporting MMCs to drive economic growth In response to these issues and to provide a unified voice to this critical segment, the bank with the support of the Department of Business and Trade has announced a plan to create a new UK Mid-Market Council, with members representing the primary sectors from across the business sphere. The first bodies to be announced as members include the British Chamber of Commerce, Confederation of British Industry, Make UK, and XYZ, with NatWest Group chair/CEO set to chair the council. NatWest will launch the Mid-Market Growth tracker in January, in collaboration with S&P Global. Thought to be the first of its kind, the tracker will provide a quarterly view of sentiment across the UK mid-market, giving an ongoing view of this sector’s sentiment and growth prospects in every corner of the UK. The bank is also announcing a partnership with the UK Export Academy, with the aim to help educate and encourage businesses to begin exporting to EU and International markets. NatWest’s report cited knowledge, networks and compliance as major barriers for mid-market businesses who want to commence trading internationally; this partnership will aim to break down these barriers and provide mid-market businesses with the confidence and expertise to expand their business into foreign markets. Lisa Phillips, Regional Managing Director of Commercial Mid-Market Midlands at NatWest, said: “Without question mid-market businesses play a pivotal role in the East Midlands economy, employing nearly a third of the workforce. And with the right support and investment, they have the potential and capabilities to have an even greater impact on the region. We look forward to working with our regional partners on developing ways to better support these vital businesses.” Jonathan Reynolds, Business Secretary, said: “I welcome this report, which describes the vital role that mid-market corporates can play in driving economic growth. As these businesses scale up, they can become tomorrow’s blue-chip quoted companies with global scale and reach. I look forward to working with NatWest and the new Council to ensure that the potential of mid-market corporates is fully realised.”

Care group secures facilities to refinance and support future growth

Tess Egginton
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Care group secures facilities to refinance and support future growth
OakNorth, the digital bank for entrepreneurs, has provided funds to MPS Care Group, a provider of residential nursing and care homes for adults. Founded in the 80s, MPS Care owns and operates a number of care homes with over 180 beds providing care in the North East, North West and the East Midlands. According to research from Knight Frank this year, while bed supply has grown 3% over the last decade, the over 65 population has grown by around 16% over the same period, meaning demand greatly outstrips supply. With an ageing population, it is expected that by 2050, there will be a shortfall of more than 200,000 beds across the UK. Paul Gray, Chairman of MPS Care, commented on the transaction: “Since our founding almost 40 years ago, our goal has been to be the care provider of choice, by providing the highest level of care to all our residents and continually improving the quality of our service. “Covid-19 was a particularly challenging period for the sector, but by consolidating our portfolio and ensuring we provide comfortable, safe and homely environments for all our residents, we were able to come out the other side even stronger. “As we look ahead to the future, we’re excited to have the backing of OakNorth – they’ve supported some of the strongest operators in the business, so receiving this funding from them puts us in great company.” Dale Cowdell, Director of Debt Finance at OakNorth, continued: “The UK elderly care sector has faced its fair share of ups and downs over the years, but with an ageing population and demand for beds already far outstripping supply, it’s vital that providers such as MPS receive the support they need. “Paul has done an exceptional job running the business over the last four decades, making the tough decisions when needed, and taking advantage of opportunities when they’ve come. He is a true entrepreneur and with the excellent leadership of Hannah Marchant and the wider team, the business is well-positioned for growth over the next 40 years.” John Anderson and Jonathan Thompson from AT Commercial Finance advised on the transaction.
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