2025 Business Predictions: Sarah Newton, director, Penguin PR
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 Sarah Newton, director at Penguin PR.
As we move into 2025 the demand for authenticity will become increasingly important in the world of PR. Undoubtedly, AI-generated content will be more abundant, but audiences will become quicker at detecting inauthentic or formulaic messaging. This means genuine messaging will be more important than ever.
Consumers will increasingly value human connection, transparency and brands that resonate on a personal and emotional level. AI may provide efficiency, but it cannot replace the genuine storytelling and human connections that build trust.
Modern audiences, particularly Gen Z and millennials, expect brands to take a stand on social, cultural and environmental issues in ways that feel sincere and consistent. PR strategies that prioritise human voices, relatable stories and real experiences will resonate far more deeply than AI-generated content that lacks nuance or emotional intelligence.
When it comes to crisis communication, people will prefer to connect with brands that admit mistakes, engage in open dialogue and demonstrate accountability. AI tools may help craft responses quickly, but audiences will only trust brands that communicate with genuine care and transparency.
As the PR landscape becomes more saturated with AI-powered solutions, the brands that thrive will be those that leverage technology to enhance – not replace – authentic human storytelling. By prioritising meaningful voices over automated content, the PR professionals that will stand out in 2025 will be the credible, relatable and honest communicators.
Vistry Group completes first deal with Placefirst to bring 139 private rental homes to Mansfield
Vistry Group, the provider of mixed-tenure homes, has sealed its first deal with Placefirst, the build-to-rent property developer-operators, for 139 of the 156 new homes that have been given the green light at Redruth Road in Mansfield.
Once constructed by Vistry, Placefirst will manage the homes for long-term rent, with a focus on fostering a strong sense of community and maintaining the high standard of construction quality.
Redruth Road will be Placefirst’s second presence in the East Midlands, following the acquisition of 34 homes in Corby last year.
The 9.8-acre site, previously owned by Mansfield District Council, now has full planning permission for 156 properties, secured with the assistance of O’Connell Property Ltd.
The two-, three-, and four-bedroom homes, as well as one-bedroom maisonettes, will be served by carefully designed footpaths and roads to ensure excellent connectivity through the new development to the surrounding communities.
As well as building new homes, Vistry is committing £536,869 to bolster local services. This includes a £91,576 cash injection for healthcare, £90,322 towards education and £318,062 for roads and transport. The scheme will also include a leap and trim trail through the public spaces and playground equipment for younger members of the community.
Each of the homes will be built using modern methods of construction (MMC) reducing the carbon footprint of every property. The homes will be manufactured off site using open panel timber frames from the Vistry Works East Midlands factory in Bardon in neighbouring Leicestershire.
Each home built using these panels emits 14,460kg CO2e less than a traditional brick-and-block house and will be designed to complement the surrounding area.
Lee Parry, Managing Director of Vistry North East Midlands, said: “It’s great to be working with Placefirst as we embark on what we hope is the first scheme of a fruitful partnership. Together we can make inroads into the shortage of rental properties in the region, bringing new family homes where they are needed most.
“We’re excited to have secured full planning permission for this site, which forms part of Nottinghamshire’s ongoing growth, and to be entrusted with creating high-quality homes here that will strike a harmonious balance between family-friendly housing and green open spaces, creating a thriving and sustainable community.”
Henry Marshall, Investment Director for Placefirst, said: “As we grow, our priority remains providing residents with the sort of exceptional stress-free living experience that inspires them to see the benefits of renting, and treat it as an active choice.
“Through a shared commitment to minimising environmental impact while keeping energy bills low for residents, this new partnership with leading housebuilder Vistry Group marks a step up in our ambitions for nationwide growth, while ensuring we continue delivering the market-leading standard of homes we are known for.
“Mansfield has faced challenges in meeting rising demand for homes, as seen by the increased housing target last year. This collaboration will play a key role in driving the town’s progress by delivering diverse, high-quality homes that support a growing population.”
BDO advises on £3.4bn deal value across Midlands and East of England
Accountancy and business advisory firm, BDO LLP has advised on 69 deals across the Midlands and East of England with a combined value of £3.4bn in 2024. Deal activity spanned 10 sectors, with over a third of BDO’s activity international/cross-border in nature.
During 2024, across the Midlands and East of England, BDO’s M&A, Transaction Services and Tax teams advised on 49 buy-side and 20 sell-side deals. Nearly half of all transactions (33 deals, 48%) involved private equity, with a further 31 deals (45%) involving corporate/trade and five deals capital markets related.
Vinod Patel, Partner, Deal Advisory – Transaction Services – said: “It’s fair to say that the economic headwinds have continued to create a difficult trading environment for many regional businesses, but their resilience and ambition translated into sustained deal activity throughout the year.
“While the Autumn Budget has added an additional layer of pressure for many businesses, what it has done is provided a degree of political and economic certainty, which will only benefit the M&A market in both the Midlands and East of England.
“Yes, the National Insurance Contribution (NIC) increase will sting for many, undoubtedly impacting on cost bases in 2025. For some, this will result in a reduction in headcount, a pause on pay rises and a freeze on recruitment, amongst other things. However, what it’s likely to bring is a greater examination of pricing strategies – by those businesses that are able to – in response to increased costs.”
Standout BDO deals across the Midlands and East of England in 2024 involved a wide range of buyers, including corporate/trade, private equity, debt and capital/plc markets in the UK and internationally.
These included: providing financial due diligence services to HSBC in respect of the take private and refinancing of AIM listed Rotala PLC (transport solutions business); the sale of Utopia Tableware to Steelite International (a portfolio company of US Private Equity house, Arbor Investments); the sale of Torus Technology to KKR backed IP Group; as well as providing buy-side financial and tax due diligence and SPA advisory services to Nurture Group on its buy & build strategy, including its 50th and largest acquisition of Tivoli Group.
In addition, BDO provided sell-side financial and tax due diligence support to Clifton Packaging Group on its sale to Carton Pack (an Italian group and portfolio company of A&M Capital Europe); buy-side M&A and commercial due diligence for LDC on its investment into Integrated Doorset Solutions; sell-side tax advisory services on the sale of CCS Media (one of the UK’s largest IT resellers) to Goldman Sachs-backed Advania; sell-side financial, tax and SPA advisory services to Charles Street Buildings Group to Lone Star, a leading private equity firm; while raising growth funding for PitPat (designer and creator of GPS Trackers & Activity Monitors for pets) from Correlation One Investments (Europe) Limited.
Roger Buckley, Partner, Deal Advisory – Mergers & Acquisitions – added: “Despite several competing factors, there is a growing sense of optimism for 2025. Despite the negativity arising from the 2024 Budget, we are expecting activity levels to exceed those seen in 2024, which is backed by a strong pipeline of engagements and opportunities.
“The UK faces many challenges. Yet both trade and private equity appetite for deals remains, with significant “dry powder” to deploy and portfolio companies to exit. M&A activity will also be underpinned by a desire to consolidate, particularly in those markets that remain fragmented with businesses executing buy and build strategies to achieve scale and gain market share in 2025.”
In light of the future pipeline, BDO continues to invest in its Deal Advisory team across the Midlands and East of England with the appointment of eight people, including Steve Round, as Deals – Tax partner.
Businesses called on to spend a night sleeping out, so others don’t have to
YMCA Derbyshire is calling on individuals, businesses, and community groups across the city and county to come together to spend a night sleeping out, so others don’t have to.
Sleep Easy will take place at the County Ground, home of Derbyshire County Cricket Club, on Friday 7 March 2025. Tickets cost £10 for adults in full-time employment and £5 for young people aged 17 and under.
Each year the event brings together over 100 people who challenge themselves to sleep out for one night to raise money for those at risk of homelessness and social isolation.
Last year’s event raised just over £35,000, which was used to provide a wide range of youth and community services, enabling those they support to move along their positive pathways. Thanks to this incredible support, the charity was able to make a real impact last year.
- 325 individuals at risk of homelessness were given a safe place to live in the charity’s housing
- 884 hours of therapeutic counselling was delivered
- 95 residents were supported to gain a qualification
- 36 residents who engaged in employment programmes gained employment
- 10,310 hot meals were served to those in need, and over 1,000 food parcels were provided
- 653 individual support sessions were delivered
Chesterfield and North Derbyshire businesses encouraged to embrace new skills initiatives
Chesterfield and North Derbyshire businesses are being encouraged to embrace new skills initiatives which aim to create high-quality jobs, bridge skills gaps, and ensure the region thrives in high-growth industries.
The upcoming Chesterfield and North Derbyshire Employability and Skills Conference will outline how businesses can access and bolster local talent to support the growth of the economy.
The conference will highlight new and emerging policy at national and regional levels. This includes the government’s intention to launch foundation and short apprenticeships in key sectors, investing £40m to create a Growth and Skills Levy and a Youth Guarantee Trailblazers initiative. The East Midlands is one of eight areas in England and Wales set to benefit from additional funding for young people.
Delegates will also gain updates on existing programmes that enable new and existing employees to access an apprenticeship or other work-related training, such as Skills Bootcamps and supported internships – with no or minimal cost to employers. Experts will update delegates on emerging topics, initiatives, funding, and opportunities to upskill their workforce.
The conference will hear from Cllr Paul Hezelgrave, Portfolio Lead for Skills & Employment at East Midlands Combined County Authority (EMCCA), who will speak about the challenges and opportunities in skills and employment across the region.
Cllr Hezelgrave commented: “The East Midlands is at the forefront of innovation, and we want to ensure our businesses are equipped to harness future growth in our region. By investing in local talent, we can close skills gaps, create high-quality jobs, and support sustainable and inclusive growth.
“This is an exciting time for employers to shape the future of our workforce, so I would encourage businesses to attend the conference and gain a comprehensive overview of the latest opportunities. I look forward to meeting regular members of our business community who attend the conference, and many new ones.”
Delegates will also hear about the benefits of inclusive recruitment and how employers can engage with a new project. Six Youth Voice Ambassadors will attend to share their experiences of the Connected Futures project, which is designed to break down barriers and improve access to employment for young people with learning disabilities and/or Autism Spectrum Condition.
Back by popular demand, the conference will once again include an interactive Round Table session, giving businesses a unique chance to engage with four different table hosts who are experts on skills support and funding.
The conference seeks to strengthen existing links between education providers and local businesses. This helps ensure school leavers become work-ready and can ‘make it’ in their hometown.
Councillor Tricia Gilby, Leader of Chesterfield Borough Council, said: “We are proud to deliver the annual Employability and Skills Conference, which plays a vital role in supporting continued collaboration among businesses and the skills and education sector, promoting the sharing of best practices, and enhancing the skills of our residents.
“By developing a resilient workforce, we can help local businesses seize new opportunities and drive growth.
“This year’s conference places a strong emphasis on the wide range of support available to local businesses, and I encourage all business leaders to attend and explore the resources on offer.”
The Chesterfield Skills and Employment Partnership delivers the Chesterfield & North Derbyshire Employability & Skills Conference in association with Chesterfield Borough Council and Destination Chesterfield.
Businesses urged to embrace new skills initiatives to help region thrive
Chesterfield and North Derbyshire businesses are being encouraged to embrace new skills initiatives with the objective of creating high-quality jobs, bridging skills gaps, and ensuring the region thrives in high-growth industries.
The forthcoming Chesterfield and North Derbyshire Employability and Skills Conference will outline how businesses can access and bolster local talent to support the growth of our economy.
The conference will highlight new and emerging policy at national and regional levels. This includes the government’s intention to launch foundation and short apprenticeships in key sectors, investing £40m to create a Growth and Skills Levy and a Youth Guarantee Trailblazers initiative. The East Midlands is one of eight areas in England and Wales set to benefit from additional funding for young people.
Delegates will also gain updates on existing programmes that enable new and existing employees to access an apprenticeship or other work-related training, such as Skills Bootcamps and supported internships – with no or minimal cost to employers.[1] Experts will update delegates on emerging topics, initiatives, funding, and opportunities to upskill their workforce.
The conference will hear from Cllr Paul Hezelgrave, Portfolio Lead for Skills & Employment at East Midlands Combined County Authority (EMCCA), who will speak about the challenges and opportunities in skills and employment across the region.
Cllr Hezelgrave said: “The East Midlands is at the forefront of innovation, and we want to ensure our businesses are equipped to harness future growth in our region. By investing in local talent, we can close skills gaps, create high-quality jobs, and support sustainable and inclusive growth. This is an exciting time for employers to shape the future of our workforce, so I would encourage businesses to attend the conference and gain a comprehensive overview of the latest opportunities. I look forward to meeting regular members of our business community who attend the conference, and many new ones.”
Councillor Tricia Gilby, Leader of Chesterfield Borough Council, commented: “We are proud to deliver the annual Employability and Skills Conference, which plays a vital role in supporting continued collaboration among businesses and the skills and education sector, promoting the sharing of best practices, and enhancing the skills of our residents. By developing a resilient workforce, we can help local businesses seize new opportunities and drive growth.
“This year’s conference places a strong emphasis on the wide range of support available to local businesses, and I encourage all business leaders to attend and explore the resources on offer.”
Details disclosed on Ryedale Caravan & Leisure’s financial struggles as caravan and leisure sector experiences “period of decline”
PKF Smith Cooper has disclosed more details surrounding Ryedale Caravan & Leisure’s financial struggles, citing a “period of decline” in the caravan and leisure industry as the leading cause.
This announcement follows the news publicised earlier this month that Ryedale’s company directors are currently working with business recovery experts at PKF Smith Cooper to review the business’s financial position and explore the possibility of marketing the Leicestershire-based caravan retailer for sale.
The caravan and leisure sector has been in a period of decline for a while, with a large number of caravan dealerships being closed as a result.
Other caravan dealerships that have succumbed to the challenges facing the industry include Lady Bailey Caravans, a high-profile dealer of 30 years from Blandford Forum that recently announced its closure, and Alcester-based Broad Lane Leisure Limited, a similar sized dealership to Ryedale that entered into Administration on 9th July 2024.
Brett Barton, Business Restructuring and Recovery Partner at PKF Smith Cooper, said: “Whilst the industry enjoyed increased levels of success in the pandemic with the staycation boom, recent issues with rising ownership costs – including new caravans, running costs and site fee costs – have resulted in a period of contraction.
“Other external factors have also had an impact, such as the rise in electric car ownership and the limitation on towing capacity for this vehicle type. Electric cars are on average 1250kg gross weight compared with a VW Passat Estate that can tow 2000kg.
“In addition, towing a caravan significantly reduces the distance between charges for electric vehicles as the UK charging infrastructure is not set up for vehicles that are towing a caravan or a trailer. This means that you would have to park up, unhitch the caravan, charge the car and then return to re-hitch the caravan to complete your journey.
“Due to these factors, Ryedale Caravan & Leisure has been struggling to sell the requisite number of caravans to cover its overheads, which culminated in a large number of 2024 variants remaining on site while the new 2025 versions are now being offered elsewhere in the market.
“We are also aware through our industry knowledge that the manufacturers tried to stimulate the new caravan market by offering discounts at the show held at the NEC in October 2024 and then extended those discounts for several weeks after the show. This unprecedented step has further agitated the ability to sell the 2024 stock.
“The lack of sales of new caravans has meant that payments on account have become due and payable to the finance companies that provide stock finance to Ryedale. This pressure, together with other payments that had become overdue, led to the Board of Directors contacting our business restructuring and recovery team at PKF Smith Cooper for formal advice.”
34,000 sq ft Leicester TMS dealership completes
HBD, part of Henry Boot, has completed a 34,000 sq ft TMS dealership at Melton Road, Leicester, representing the largest single investment in the dealership’s 18-year history.
The new centre is the sixth TMS location across the Midlands and offers Volvo and Kia vehicles alongside servicing facilities.
TMS Group is a family run franchised motor retailer. It represents Volvo in Coventry, Hinkley and Leicester and Kia in Leicester, Loughborough and Hinkley. TMS was created in 2006 by Len Hallows, growing quickly since launching its first dealership.
Ed Hutchinson, Managing Director of HBD, said: “We have created a modern and sustainable building for TMS Group, with eco-friendly technology sitting alongside state-of-the-art servicing facilities. The new centre will play a key role in the business’ continued growth, while creating 20 jobs and apprenticeship opportunities.”
Boutique employment law firm secures new base for expansion
The specialist law firm Michael Cummins Employment Solicitors has begun the New Year with a new base to accommodate its expanding workforce.
The now eight-strong firm, which tripled its turnover in its second year in business, has relocated to new offices at Desford Hall in rural Leicestershire.
The firm was previously based at its initial location at Leicester’s Grove Park since being founded by Michael Cummins in 2022.
The new offices, in the Coach House at Desford Hall, are located within countryside with views as far as Bradgate Park and set in grounds enjoyed by staff, clients and especially the family firm’s dog Monty.
Michael Cummins said: “We have taken on three fee-earners in the last six months, thanks to significant new client wins and sustainably growing levels of work and turnover. So we needed a more suitable space for the bigger team.
“The new offices and their environment really chime with the kind of firm we are – boutique, focussed, atypical and determined to be a great and enjoyable place to work. We now have the space to expand the team throughout 2025 and beyond.
“Our growing team live in both the East and West Midlands, including Birmingham and Nottingham, so this new location is perfectly accessible to all. As it also is for our national client base.
“Our clients love our new surroundings and all comment on how wonderfully green and pleasant the environment is. They all love meeting Monty too, who couldn’t be happier to have the fields and gardens to explore.”
BGF makes partner appointment in the Midlands
BGF investor Seb Saywood has been promoted to partner, as part of BGF’s transition to partner titles.
Seb has played a crucial role in BGF’s investments across a wide range of sectors, building strong relationships with entrepreneurs and management teams. He will lead BGF’s investment teams in the Midlands, located in Nottingham and Birmingham.
Seb joined BGF in 2018 and has led several high-profile investments in the Midlands region including Jola Cloud Solutions, Metpro and Blue Light Card.
Jon Earl, who leads portfolio team activity in Midlands, has also transitioned to partner title. Jon has played a key role in supporting portfolio companies and their growth strategies across the region.
The transition to partner titles is an evolution for BGF’s Investment and Portfolio teams, aimed at providing greater transparency around career progression and fostering further collaboration.
Seb Saywood said: “I am pleased to take on this expanded role and continue working with an exceptional team that is dedicated to fostering growth and innovation in the Midlands. The transition to Partner titles is a testament to BGF’s commitment to investing in its people and strengthening our collaborative approach.”
Andy Gregory, CEO of BGF, added: “These appointments reflect our ongoing commitment to empowering our teams to thrive at both a regional and national level. They mark a significant milestone for BGF, strengthening our company-wide leadership capabilities and supporting our mission to drive long-term value through a collaborative culture.”
Van Elle secures £30m partnership with Wood Transmission & Distribution
Van Elle, the Nottinghamshire-headquartered ground engineering contractor, has signed an eight-year partnering agreement with Wood Transmission & Distribution to deliver ground investigation, design and construction activities for piling and foundations across several transmission schemes as part of Ofgem’s Accelerated Strategic Transmission Investment (ASTI) programme.
Subject to performance, the partnership is expected to be worth in excess of £30m to Van Elle over that period.
Works have commenced on initial projects in New Cumnock, Argyll and most recently at Beauly-Loch Buidhe where ground investigation works are mobilising throughout January for 240 towers to be constructed in 2026-27.
Chief Executive, Mark Cutler, said: “Wood has been a long-standing customer for Van Elle, so we are delighted to announce this partnering agreement to help deliver part of the significant scale of energy infrastructure in Scotland together over the coming years.
“Our breadth of capability allows us to integrate ground investigation, design and piling and foundation solutions best suited to the project requirements. Initial works have commenced, and activity levels will now increase as other schemes are mobilised across Scotland.
“Our recent acquisition of Albion Drilling based in Stirling will support with a local resource base and specialist skills needed to deliver these important commitments, often in remote and challenging locations.
“This agreement is the first of a number that we anticipate in this growing sector; reinforcing our confidence in our medium-term ambitions.”
Pride Park move for construction firm
A growing construction firm has leased space at Derby’s Pride Park, at 36 Royal Scot Road.
Gratton Construction Ltd are the new occupiers who acquired the space in order to expand their administrative and logistical functions across the region, allowing the company to deliver services like property maintenance, refurbishments, repairs, void management, and residential development efficiently.
Cameron Godfrey, of BB&J Commercial, the agent responsible for the deal, said: “I’m pleased to have facilitated an agreement between our retained client and Gratton Construction Ltd within just two months, prior to which we had received numerous offers from local and regional businesses, further highlighting the strong demand for versatile commercial properties like 36 Royal Scot Road.
“Pride Park remains a premier location for businesses looking to capitalise on its excellent transport links. I’m pleased to have helped my client acquire a strong tenant in Gratton Construction and I look forward to seeing how they grow over the next few years.”
Office building sold at Nottingham Business Park
H4 Ash Tree Court on Nottingham Business Park has been sold to CadXtra, a multi-disciplined Design Consultancy.
H4 is a self-contained, mid-terraced office building situated across two floors, comprising 2,350 sq ft. Prior to the sale, the property underwent extensive refurbishment.
FHP collaborated with a private client to secure the sale. Despite initial limited interest, demand eventually increased. This interest led to best and final offers, resulting in a strong sale price that set a new benchmark for freehold values within close proximity to the subject property.
CadXtra, the purchaser, had been searching for an ideal office space for some time and found H4 Ash Tree Court to be the perfect fit.
FHP have also secured a new letting at G6 Ash Tree Court, which is currently under offer and expected to complete in the coming weeks. Additionally, there is interest in the remaining office suite at H7, which is available as an investment opportunity.
Amy Howard, Surveyor at FHP Property Consultants, said: “It was a great result to finalise this sale for my client. After a slow start, we soon attracted a strong level of enquiries for both rental and purchase options. We secured an excellent sale price for my client and it was a pleasure to work alongside CadXtra in the sale, helping them find their ideal office space.”
Rolls-Royce SMR prepares for next meet the buyer event
Rolls-Royce SMR is gearing up for another supplier event, the latest in a series of conferences and ‘meet the buyer’ sessions, designed to create the diverse and resilient supply chain necessary to deploy a global fleet of Rolls-Royce SMR’s factory-built nuclear power plants.
Ruth Todd, Rolls-Royce SMR’s Operations and Supply Chain Director, said: “Our Supply Chain Programme was launched at the first Supplier Conference in Sheffield last year, where we were joined by hundreds of representatives from every level of the global supply chain.
“The next conference, one of several planned for 2025, will be another important step on our journey as we continue to grow and mature as a project delivery organisation – in the UK and around the world.”
Building a world class supply chain, with a strong SME element, is critical to Rolls-Royce SMR’s success and to delivering social value in the communities where it operates, says the company.
The Rolls-Royce SMR offers a radically different approach to delivering new nuclear power. Each ‘factory-built’ nuclear power station will provide enough low-carbon electricity to power a million homes for more than 60 years, and will create thousands of long-term, high-skilled jobs.
University of Nottingham partners with food producers to pioneer future of plant-based protein products
Researchers in the Division of Food, Nutrition and Dietetics at the University of Nottingham have been awarded funding to develop the next generation of plant-based protein products.
The funding is part of the UK-Canada Innovate UK initiative that aims to strengthen ties between the UK and Canadian food sectors, fostering innovation as both countries intensify efforts toward achieving net zero and creating more sustainable food supply chains.
This collaborative transdisciplinary project will involve three leading research groups from the University of Nottingham, plant-based food producer Jampa’s, as well as the Canadian food manufacturer, Tartistes
Jampa’s already has a range of clean label plant-based products focused on delivering great taste and texture. By integrating product reformulation, nutrition science, sensory science and packaging design, the project seeks to maximise the commercial success of the product and provide valuable insights into the broader category, as meat analogues face challenges from consumers.
Dr. Qian Yang, project lead at the University of Nottingham, said: “This collaboration represents an exciting step forward in our work developing innovative, sustainable food solutions.
“By collaborating with Jampa’s, this grant bridges the gap between cutting edge research and real-world application. It takes a consumer centric approach to develop nutritionally enriched and great-tasting reformulated products that truly resonate with consumers’ needs and preferences.”
Dr Yang adds: “This balanced approach will provide valuable insights in the food sector, offering healthier and more sustainable choices for consumers across global market.”
Jampa’s is building on its successful, long-standing relationship with the Food Innovation Centre (FIC) who is leading in the product design and development. The project will focus on reformulating Jampa’s current plant-based beef analogue to include local and valorised crops that have potential in both UK and Canadian markets.
To enhance nutritional value, the project places a strong emphasis on delivering nutritious plant-based products with high nutrient bioavailability and digestibility. This will be achieved at the University’s Nutritional Composition and Digestibility lab where the team will use recently developed and robust in vitro gastro-intestinal digestion techniques integrated with cutting edge mass spectrometry to evaluate protein and amino acid digestibility.
The products will then be subjected to rigorous taste tests with consumers to ensure they are optimised to the highest standards by experts at the Sensory Science Centre. The team will collaborate closely with Jampa’s innovative packaging designers to create a seamless connection with its consumers, ensuring the product characteristics are communicated effectively.
Richard Fox, Chef Co-Founder of Jampa’s, said: “Working with the University of Nottingham was an absolute game-changer for our grant application process. We’ve worked with the FIC for a couple of years, and when the IUK call came out and we needed a UK partner, they were the obvious choice.
“The entire UoN team provided unwavering support every step of the way from aligning our vision with the grant criteria to bringing together various departments whose expertise would help us achieve project objectives and create a strong proposal.
“They helped us clarify our proposal in an impactful way, and their guidance on data, formatting, IP, and deadlines ensured our application was polished and professional. What stood out most was their genuine investment in our success—they truly became partners in our journey.” 2025 Business Predictions: Andrew Bridge, Managing Partner of Fisher German
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 Andrew Bridge, Managing Partner at property consultancy Fisher German.
Despite a challenging picture for businesses following the Budget in October, there will still be potential for growth in 2025.
The recent NPPF reforms were welcome, but it remains to be seen how effective it will be in delivering the housing the country needs. Inflation and interest rates may continue to slow down the residential market, with the cost of borrowing being a major factor in successful transactions.
Commercial growth may also be hindered by a lack of land supply and reliable grid connections, making it difficult for companies to expand.
However, the rise in national insurance contributions, while challenging for many businesses, could actually result in opportunities for further work.
The National Wealth Fund, a government initiative set up to attract private investment in clean energy and growth industries, is set to invest a further £5.8bn of capital into these projects during this Parliament, which the increase in NICs should help pay for.
Whether directly or indirectly, the private sector will be able to contribute to the delivery of these large-scale projects and benefit as a result.
Beyond this, businesses will increasingly look to AI to solve their productivity issues, with early adopters likely to reap the most rewards.
And looking further ahead into 2026, a planned amendment to banking regulations could free up further access to loans for SMEs and infrastructure projects, with the potential to stimulate property prices.
Nottingham haulage company starts new journey following acquisition
A freight and courier company described by its acquirer as “a credit to the previous owners” has been sold.
Direct Sameday Services was founded in 1999 and utilises a fleet of modern vehicles to provide haulage and courier services across the UK and into Europe.
The company is headquartered in Bulwell on the outskirts of Nottingham, with a North West base in Rochdale, specialising in same-day parcel, pallet and tender document deliveries and employing over 60 staff.
Westland Assets is the acquirer of Direct Sameday, having been impressed by the business built up by co-founders Ian Gleave and Paul Tomkinson.
A lengthy search for a suitable acquisition opportunity by Westland Assets director David Whitefoot culminated in the deal for Direct Sameday.
“Of all the ones I have seen in the past two years, this is the best documented and most well-run business I have seen in a long time,” David told Motor Transport.
“The business was set up just over 25 years ago and considering the (industry) regulation that has followed since then, it is a credit to the previous owners.”
There are now ambitious plans to expand Direct Sameday, with David adding: “We have bought this business with the intention to scale up, not down.
“We want to grow the business in 2025 and 2026, make more investments in it and possibly expand it geographically. We have a vision of where we want to take this business.
“This strategic investment shows the commitment of investors, vision in the UK transport industry and understanding of all the future challenges ahead. We have full confidence in Direct Sameday Services, which has a bright future ahead in 2025.”
The transaction was advised on by KBS Corporate.
“I’m delighted with the result we managed to achieve for our clients,” said Joe Norris, KBS Associate Corporate Director. “It was far from easy at times, but I’d like to credit everyone involved in the deal on both the buy and sell side for their hard work and perseverance.
“We managed to overcome every issue and arrive at an outcome that worked for everyone.”
New year brings influx of tenants to Ednaston Park Business Centre
Ednaston Park Business Centre has welcomed an influx of new tenants.
With fellow occupiers comprising IT support and service specialists, Wytech Ltd, Bennet Samways Estate Agents, and creative agency, MacMartin, the Business Centre is now also home to L.T. VA Services LTD, EAL Engine Services, Dhesi Conveyancing Limited, D.A. Pak Limited and Gutu Mirror Limited, with more to be announced.
Virtual Assistant, Lisa Tenant from L.T. VA Services said: “After spending the last few years working from home with two teenage boys stealing the bandwidth and struggling to separate life from work, sometimes working 17 hours a day, I decided it was time for a change. Ednaston Park has given me that work-life balance I desperately needed, and the great Wi-Fi is an added bonus!”
Additionally, Light Science Technologies Holdings PLC (LSTH) have relocated from their office in Ednaston Park Business Centre to the brand new, Ednaston Barns. Completed at the start of 2024, the Barns sit within their own self-contained plot to the side of the Business Centre’s main building.
Simon Deacon, CEO at LSTH, said: “Light Science Technologies Holdings PLC was listed on the London Stock Exchange (AIM) 3 years ago and has seen significant growth.
“We have taken advantage of moving into the newly refurbished Byre at Ednaston Park Business Centre, which has been finished to a high standard, where we can continue our growth strategy in an idyllic working environment.”
In 2022, Clowes demolished the old nunnery living quarters at the back of the main building to create a further three units known as Ednaston Mews which are currently fully occupied.
Set in 18-acres of landscaped gardens, Ednaston Park Business Centre was built in the 19th century. Until 2016 it housed the St Mary’s Nursing Home; it was then bought by Clowes Developments in September 2017.
Since then, the developer has invested heavily in the property to turn it into modern office accommodation, combining contemporary styling with many of the building’s original period features.
Ednaston Park now comprises of flexible commercial space in the form of 29 office suites ranging in size from 54 sq ft to 553 sq ft, available as single or multi-office lets. It also features meeting rooms, a break-out area and landscaped gardens.
Workers in London earn by August what workers in the East Midlands earn in a year
Cities Outlook 2025 today (20 January 2025) shows the stark pay divides in the UK. Average salaries of £49,500 in London are £16,800 above salaries in the East Midlands (£32,700), according to Centre for Cities.
This means that the average worker in London has earned by August what the average worker in the East Midlands will take a year to earn.
The pay divide primarily results from some cities having far more “cutting edge” private sector jobs and businesses than others. Places with the highest pay such as London and Cambridge have more than twice as many cutting-edge firms and up to three times as many cutting-edge jobs – in sectors like biotech and AI – as low pay places such as Leicester and Mansfield.
The scale of the pay divide underlines why 2025 has to be the year the Government delivers on its ambitions to raise economic growth. In Cities Outlook 2025, its latest annual outlook for urban economies in the UK, Centre for Cities urges the Government to follow through on its economic policy programme – including English devolution, the industrial strategy, and planning reforms.
Out of the 63 largest towns and cities, nearly all those with above-average salaries for the UK are in the Greater South East, including Reading and Milton Keynes. Just seven places in the rest of the country have salaries above the UK average – Leeds, Warrington, Derby, Swindon, Bristol, Aberdeen and Edinburgh.
Cities and towns where workplace wages are low have to address the barriers to growth in cutting-edge parts of their economy. This will require evidence-based assessments on the weaknesses in their local economies, prioritising work in high-skill over high-street activity and investing in fundamentals – such as skills, transport and workspace.
Cities Outlook 2025 also emphasises the importance of implementing the proposed changes to the national planning system to make housing delivery easier and quicker.
Lowering housing costs is a challenge for cities and large towns with high wages, including London and most places in the Greater South East: half of the ten places with the highest average wages also rank in the ten least affordable housing markets.
High housing costs eat into disposable incomes and raise barriers that prevent people moving to these areas to take advantage of the economic opportunities they offer.
Andrew Carter, Chief Executive of Centre for Cities, said: “The Government is right to identify boosting economic growth for every part of the country as a top priority. It is the only sustainable route to higher wages. But the stark nature of Cities Outlook’s findings shows an incremental approach is not going to be enough.
“Boldness, urgency and scale are crucial. 2025 needs to be year for delivery, particularly on the Government’s Industrial Strategy, framework for English devolution and its reforms to planning.
“Bold changes to planning rules can deliver more housing in the most expensive places and in our big cities, where it’s needed most. The Industrial Strategy must prioritise growing the cutting edge of the economy, and avoid calls to do something for all sectors and industries.
“And English devolution needs to be fast-tracked so more places, particularly the big cities, have the powers and resources to deliver the pay increases that many parts of the country badly need.
“This government has promised more money in people’s pockets. If people across the country are going to earn more by the end of the parliamentary term, then 2025 is year we need to see action and progress on the Government’s growth ambition.”
Out of the 63 largest towns and cities, nearly all those with above-average salaries for the UK are in the Greater South East, including Reading and Milton Keynes. Just seven places in the rest of the country have salaries above the UK average – Leeds, Warrington, Derby, Swindon, Bristol, Aberdeen and Edinburgh.
Cities and towns where workplace wages are low have to address the barriers to growth in cutting-edge parts of their economy. This will require evidence-based assessments on the weaknesses in their local economies, prioritising work in high-skill over high-street activity and investing in fundamentals – such as skills, transport and workspace.
Cities Outlook 2025 also emphasises the importance of implementing the proposed changes to the national planning system to make housing delivery easier and quicker.
Lowering housing costs is a challenge for cities and large towns with high wages, including London and most places in the Greater South East: half of the ten places with the highest average wages also rank in the ten least affordable housing markets.
High housing costs eat into disposable incomes and raise barriers that prevent people moving to these areas to take advantage of the economic opportunities they offer.
Andrew Carter, Chief Executive of Centre for Cities, said: “The Government is right to identify boosting economic growth for every part of the country as a top priority. It is the only sustainable route to higher wages. But the stark nature of Cities Outlook’s findings shows an incremental approach is not going to be enough.
“Boldness, urgency and scale are crucial. 2025 needs to be year for delivery, particularly on the Government’s Industrial Strategy, framework for English devolution and its reforms to planning.
“Bold changes to planning rules can deliver more housing in the most expensive places and in our big cities, where it’s needed most. The Industrial Strategy must prioritise growing the cutting edge of the economy, and avoid calls to do something for all sectors and industries.
“And English devolution needs to be fast-tracked so more places, particularly the big cities, have the powers and resources to deliver the pay increases that many parts of the country badly need.
“This government has promised more money in people’s pockets. If people across the country are going to earn more by the end of the parliamentary term, then 2025 is year we need to see action and progress on the Government’s growth ambition.” Nottingham tram operator raises over £15,000 for local charities
Throughout 2024, Nottingham Express Transit (NET) raised more than £15,000 for a range of local charities and community initiatives in Nottingham, as part of its pledge to celebrate its 20th anniversary through an acts of kindness campaign.
As NET’s 2024 charity of the year, Nottingham Central Women’s Aid was a key focus for NET’s charity initiatives throughout the year. This included raising nearly £2,000 during a ‘walk the network’ initiative in May, which saw 30 members of the team walking along the tram network for over 13 miles from Hucknall to Clifton South.
NET also raised funds from its family fun day in August, and this Christmas, transformed a tram into a Santa’s grotto which welcomed 14 children and their mothers who are supported by the charity, for an afternoon of festive fun.
Alongside the charity of the year, NET team members were also encouraged to nominate their own chosen charities and take part in individual fundraising efforts.
Their efforts included supporting a fundraiser by 13-year old Lillie for the Brain Tumour Charity, a cause nominated by network controller Lee Wood. Meanwhile, experience agent John-Paul Redman raised £950 for When You Wish Upon a Star by walking 1,815 miles in 127 days.
The network also supported external fundraising efforts by Jacob Gadd, son of tram driver Alun Gadd, helping him to raise more than £2,000 for Our Dementia Choir. This charity has now been named as NET’s 2025 charity of the year.
Other group-wide donations included £700 towards Step Out Stay Out, giving more than £1,200 to Aspley food bank, and two separate donations of £1,000 to the Strelley Family Fun Day and Operation Polarised, an initiative in partnership with Nottinghamshire Police to support Nottingham’s youths ages seven to 17.
Rebecca Horne, business engagement manager at NET, said: “2024 has been a really strong year for us in terms of fundraising and we’re incredibly proud of the amount raised for so many worthy local causes.
“Central Women’s Aid, our charity of the year for 2024, was chosen by our colleagues and it’s been fantastic to see how much of a collaborative effort the team has put in to support them.
“Last year we also saw many of our colleagues undertake their own charitable work in support of a range of causes, and we will continue to champion this in years to come.”
