Nottinghamshire’s DEA Aviation secures new multi-million pound finance package

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Nottinghamshire’s DEA Aviation secures new multi-million pound finance package

DEA Aviation, a specialised aerial data-acquisition company based in Nottinghamshire, has secured a multi-million pound finance package with Santander UK, supported by UK Export Finance (UKEF).

It is DEA’s second round of funding secured with the support of UKEF, to sustain growth in its export and intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance (ISR) business segments. Last year, DEA secured £16.5m in its first tranche of funding with Santander UK to meet job creation, capacity and capability objectives, focused primarily on its ISR and export operations. DEA is a technology-led provider of specialised aerial data-acquisition services in the ISR, search and rescue and aerial mapping sectors. It is frequently relied upon to provide security services of national importance, demanding class-leading safety and compliance processes. In 2024, DEA flew ISR and search and rescue missions for its major European customers 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days of the year. It provided real-time intelligence to support thousands of events that arose in their border and illegal-activity protection roles. Since the initial investment, DEA’s workforce has grown by 10%. It now employs over 220 people worldwide, most of whom are highly-skilled engineers, pilots, sensor operators, systems architects and software developers operating from accredited facilities in Nottinghamshire. Joanna Allen, CFO of the DEA Group, said: “This new funding package, enabled by UKEF, positions DEA to continue a strong growth trajectory in its export and ISR operations internationally as the worldwide demand continues to mount.

“The funding recognises that DEA is a substantial exporter and will enable the company to continue to build upon the momentum that we have generated over the course of the past year.”

Tim Reid, Chief Executive Officer of UKEF, said: “This announcement of our second Export Development Guarantee for DEA shows how we can develop longstanding relationships to help UK businesses scale up. UKEF’s support is already helping DEA to unlock its potential by creating new jobs and growing.”

Liz Pickering, Relationship Director, Santander Corporate and Commercial, added: “We are pleased to have provided DEA Group with an additional lending package to support the Group’s expansion. The funding will help the business establish itself further as a major exporter of tech-led aerial data services. We look forward to continuing working with the DEA team and UKEF.”

Natural energy snack brand raises £2.4m to fuel growth

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Natural energy snack brand raises £2.4m to fuel growth
TRIBE – the natural energy snack brand with a manufacturing site in Leicester – has raised £2.4m in a funding round led by Mercia Ventures and including Yeo Ventures, Crowdcube and private investors. The funding will enable it to continue its rapid growth and make seven new senior appointments. TRIBE’s products are all vegan, gluten-free and contain only natural ingredients. They are stocked at health food stores and major supermarkets such as Sainsbury’s, Tesco, Waitrose, the Co-op and Morrisons. The company gives one pence from every TRIBE bar sold to its sister charity, TRIBE Freedom Foundation. To date over 400,000 people have taken part in its runs and events and it has raised more than £1.9m to combat modern slavery. TRIBE was founded in 2015 by former lawyers Robert Martineau and Tom Stancliffe, who had previously set up Run for Love, a 1,000-mile run to raise funds to combat modern slavery. After realising they could not find energy snacks without refined sugars and additives, they decided to make their own. TRIBE delivered revenue of £4m in 2024 and plans to reach over £20m by 2027. The company, which has its head office in London, employs a ten-strong team and uses a network of subcontractors, with logistics carried out in Dudley and manufacturing at sites in Leicester, Chester, Rochdale and Corwen, Wales. As part of the funding round, the company has appointed a new Chair in the form of Steve Rich, the former Managing Director of FulFil who led its sale to Ferrero for £140m in 2022. Tom Stancliffe, co-founder of TRIBE, said: “Our journey began with a 1,000-mile run to fight modern slavery and our mission is to fuel active lives with natural energy. “We are really excited and proud to partner with Mercia and Yeo Ventures for the next stage in our journey. Our new Chair, Steve Rich, also brings huge experience and knowledge to our Board as we look to accelerate our growth.” Rafael Joseph of Mercia Ventures added: “With consumers moving away from ultra-processed foods, healthy snacks are amongst the fastest-growing grocery categories. “Restrictions on displaying ‘unhealthy’ foods in supermarkets are also bolstering TRIBE’s sales. TRIBE has all the ingredients for success – an exceptional product underpinned by consumer trends and the ideal team to back it up.” Christopher Gale, Investment Manager at Yeo Ventures, said: “We are delighted to be partnering with Tom and Rob, alongside the team at Mercia Ventures, to support TRIBE in the next phase of its growth journey. “Positioned at the intersection of sports nutrition and healthy snacking, TRIBE provides a natural alternative to the ultra-processed products that no longer meet the needs of today’s health-conscious consumers. “TRIBE aligns well with our thesis to drive the transition towards a natural and healthy food system, and we look forward to seeing the meaningful impact that the business will have in this evolving market.”

State-of-the-art storage facility completed for Rolls-Royce in Derby

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State-of-the-art storage facility completed for Rolls-Royce in Derby
Indurent, a developer and operator of industrial and logistics space across the UK, has completed and handed over a 148,000 sq ft state-of-the-art warehouse facility for Rolls-Royce. The bespoke storage facility, which is located at Indurent Park Derby, will support the company’s significant manufacturing operation in Derby and increase space in its operational areas. The unit has been built to the highest sustainability standards, achieving a BREEAM ‘Excellent’ accreditation and an EPC A+ rating for energy efficiency. The Indurent team worked closely with Rolls-Royce throughout the design and build process, with the specification being adapted to meet Rolls-Royce’s exact needs, including enhanced floor loading three times greater than a standard floor, the installation of a single 12m high door and 100-ton capacity crane for the movement of valuable heavy parts. The facility is equipped with 1MV of power with solar panels installed across the roof space for on site power generation to reduce energy costs. Indurent has also overseen the delivery and installation of bespoke climate control and lighting systems to the warehouse. Indurent Park Derby is a 50-acre industrial park. In addition to Rolls-Royce, it is home to heat pump manufacturer Vaillant and Swedish medical technology company Getinge, which has established a Global Centre of Excellence for Chemistry at the park alongside its UK headquarters. Kia has also established their national base for training and development associated with their range of electric vehicles. Rob Richardson, Development Director at Indurent, said: “We are extremely proud to complete and hand over this state-of-the-art facility for Rolls-Royce, a globally-renowned company which is at the forefront of innovation in manufacturing. “The arrival of Rolls-Royce to Indurent Park Derby adds to the cluster of high-tech R&D and manufacturing businesses in Derby and underlines that the development of versatile industrial and logistics space, with the availability of a large amount of power, is critical for supporting high-growth sectors, creating a diverse mix of employment and boosting local economies.” Terry Meighan, Infrastructure Director at Rolls-Royce, added: “The project was delivered on time and on budget but, most importantly, it was done safely. This facility is key to delivering our wider site redevelopment work and is the first of our significant builds to be completed.” Winvic Construction was the lead contractor for Indurent on the unit, who were supported by Wakemans as project manager.

Affordable housing development site acquired in Langley Mill

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Affordable housing development site acquired in Langley Mill
Social enterprise Places for People (PfP) has acquired an affordable housing development site in Langley Mill, Derbyshire, working in partnership with Derby-based developer Wheeldon Brothers Ltd. The Langley Mill site will be a key development supporting the launch of the organisation’s new apprenticeship and skills initiative PfP Thrive based out of its headquartered academy in Derby. The new development will feature 109 homes, including 43 two- and three-bedroom homes for shared ownership and 66 homes for affordable rent. Designed as a mix of semi-detached, terraced and detached properties, each home will offer modern interiors and two dedicated parking spaces. Phased construction is scheduled to begin in April 2025 and the sales launch planned for early 2026. Nilam Buchanan, Regional Managing Director for Central and North at Places for People, said: “This development represents an important opportunity to provide high quality, affordable homes for the Langley Mill area, enhancing its appeal as a desirable place to live. “With shared ownership making new-build homes more accessible, and the combination of high-quality design and excellent connectivity, the scheme promises to appeal to a diverse range of residents, contributing to a thriving and inclusive community. “Thanks to our successful collaboration with Wheeldon Brothers, we are pleased to address the demand for new housing in this location and we are actively seeking further development sites in the East Midlands.”

Founder of Leicester sustainable travel consultancy appointed to board of Modeshift

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Founder of Leicester sustainable travel consultancy appointed to board of Modeshift
Robin Pointon, Managing Director and Founder of Leicester-based sustainable travel consultancy GO Travel Solutions, has been appointed to the board of Modeshift, a membership organisation for sustainable travel practitioners. Robin has extensive experience in the transportation sector, having worked with Leicestershire County Council and Midland Fox/Arriva in public transport roles. As the founder of GO Travel Solutions in 2008, Robin has been dedicated to developing innovative travel planning solutions that encourage sustainability. “I am excited to be joining the Modeshift board and support its national initiatives,” said Robin. “I believe my experience in sustainable travel will be beneficial to Modeshift’s future endeavours and I look forward to fostering positive change through collaborative partnerships.” Ross Butcher, Chair of Modeshift, welcomed Robin to the board: “We are delighted to have Robin join the Modeshift board. His extensive experience and commitment to sustainable travel will be a valuable addition to our efforts in promoting and advancing sustainable travel practices across the country.”

Topping out held at new local centre in Leicestershire

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Topping out held at new local centre in Leicestershire
A topping out ceremony has been held at a new local centre at New Lubbesthorpe in Leicestershire which is being delivered by developer Charterpoint in association with The Drummond Trust. The event was attended by delegates from Blaby District Council – councillors and planners, Lubbesthorpe Parish Council, Leicestershire County Council, Forest House Medical Centre, The OWLS Academy Trust, the local Primary Care Network, Bentley Project Management and surveyor CJ Consilium, who joined representatives from Charterpoint and The Drummond Trust for the event. It marked a significant milestone in the construction of the two-storey, mixed-use development known as the Brook Centre. When completed, it will house a Sainsbury’s Local store and four additional units for retail, including a café/bistro, on the ground floor, with the first floor being occupied by Forest House Medical Centre. Charterpoint MD Giles Nursey said: “We were very pleased to stage a topping out ceremony at Brook Centre to mark a key milestone in the delivery of this important community facility for New Lubbesthorpe. “It was the perfect opportunity for the Charterpoint team to demonstrate the progress that has been made on site. Once completed, Brook Centre will provide new retail facilities and a café/bistro, plus a new base for Forest House Medical Centre – all enhancing the facilities of this pioneering new community.” Brook Centre will be the first local centre at the new community in Blaby which will eventually include more than 4,000 new homes. It was designed by Franklin Ellis Architects and is being built by Derby-based contractor Davlyn Construction on behalf of Charterpoint and The Drummond Trust. Work is expected to be completed by spring 2025.

Land sold for new Coalville care home

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Land sold for new Coalville care home
The former Coalville Van Centre and associated buildings located just off Ashby Road in Coalville have been sold in a deal arranged by specialist land development and property consultancy Mather Jamie. The site has been sold to Deeley Group and the company has agreed a deal with Exemplar Health Care to deliver a new care home which will provide comprehensive care for adults living with complex mental health needs, dementia, neuro-disabilities, and physical disabilities. Deeley Group has now started work on the development with an anticipated completion date in 2026. Work is underway to demolish the existing buildings to make way for the new care home which will feature 36 en-suite bedrooms split across three units. Exemplar Health Care currently operates 50 complex care services across England. Commenting on the deal, Sam Tyler from Mather Jamie, said: “This will be an exciting development for Coalville and ensure valuable brownfield land is utilised to deliver much needed local services which in turn will also create employment opportunities.” Commenting on the acquisition of the site, Eleanor Deeley, Joint Managing Director at Deeley Group, said: “As demand for high-quality, complex care grows, we are delighted to have been able to secure a site to deliver this for those in Coalville and the surround areas. “We are delighted that Mather Jamie has helped us to secure the site and to be working to deliver the 36-bed scheme for Exemplar Health Care, this is our sixth scheme with Exemplar and further cements our partnership.”

Optimising logistics: how technology is transforming fleet management

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Optimising logistics: how technology is transforming fleet management
Logistics often resembles a complex balancing act, where efficiency, compliance, and cost must be managed simultaneously. The introduction of cutting-edge technology is reshaping how businesses handle their logistics, leading to significant improvements in performance and cost-effectiveness. Advanced software solutions allow companies to streamline processes and gain a competitive edge in logistics operations.

The impact of technology on logistics efficiency

Technological advancements are revolutionising the logistics industry by automating processes that were once time-consuming and manual. Automated systems empower businesses to manage shipments and inventory more effectively.  For example, automated route optimisation tools enable the creation of the most efficient delivery routes, factoring in variables such as traffic patterns and delivery schedules. This enhances the speed of deliveries and reduces fuel costs, thus boosting overall operational efficiency. A GPS fleet tracking system further enhances logistics efficiency by providing real-time location data for vehicles, allowing companies to optimise their fleet’s performance. Predictive analytics plays a crucial role in logistics management by analysing historical data to forecast demand accurately. This capability enables businesses to optimise inventory levels and plan for fluctuations in supply and demand.  By taking a proactive approach, companies can reduce waste, improve service levels, and enhance customer satisfaction. These technologies contribute to operational efficiency while providing valuable insights that inform strategic decision-making.

Enhancing compliance and safety through technological solutions

Adhering to regulatory requirements is an essential part of logistics management. By using compliance tools, businesses can effectively meet local and international regulations, avoiding fines and operational interruptions. Automating compliance reporting simplifies this process, ensuring companies maintain necessary documentation and consistently track safety standards without errors. Additionally, technology has enhanced safety measures within logistics operations. Software solutions that offer vehicle inspection features enable detailed assessments and maintenance management. By proactively conducting inspections and staying on top of maintenance schedules, businesses can prevent breakdowns and accidents, ensuring the safety of drivers and cargo. Driver monitoring systems contribute significantly to safety as well. These technologies track driver behaviour, such as speeding and harsh braking, providing opportunities for coaching and improvement. Prioritising safety protects assets, mitigates liability, and enhances a company’s reputation in the market.

The role of real-time data in logistics decision-making

Real-time data access is a transformative element of modern logistics management. Connected devices allow companies to monitor operations continuously, gaining insights into delivery statuses, vehicle conditions, and driver performance. This capability enables businesses to make informed decisions quickly, addressing issues as they arise and ensuring smooth operations. Visibility is vital in logistics. Real-time tracking enhances supply chain transparency, enabling companies to address traffic delays or maintenance disruptions quickly. This responsiveness reduces losses and builds trust with customers who rely on timely, dependable service. Utilising data analytics alongside real-time information provides a comprehensive view of operations. Businesses can identify trends and uncover inefficiencies, making data-driven decisions that enhance logistics processes. This analytical approach fosters a proactive mindset, empowering businesses to anticipate challenges rather than merely react to them.

Streamlining supply chains with integrated technologies

Integrating technology solutions into a cohesive logistics strategy can significantly streamline supply chains. Connecting different systems creates a seamless flow of information that enhances communication and collaboration among stakeholders. An integrated approach ensures that everyone, from suppliers to customers, has access to the same data, fostering transparency and trust. Collaboration tools enable improved communication among all parties in the logistics process. When suppliers, manufacturers, and distributors share real-time information, they can coordinate more effectively, reducing delays and misunderstandings. This cooperative method is particularly important during disruptions, where quick adjustments are essential to maintain service levels. Incorporating machine learning into logistics systems can further enhance decision-making. Algorithms can analyse historical data and predict outcomes, assisting businesses in identifying the best course of action in various scenarios. This increases operational efficiency and allows companies to respond proactively to market changes.

Implementing technology solutions: best practices for local businesses

For businesses in the East Midlands seeking to optimise their logistics operations, implementing technology solutions effectively is crucial. Conducting a thorough assessment of current processes helps identify areas for improvement. Engaging with technology partners that offer tailored solutions can pinpoint the best tools to suit specific business needs. Training staff to adapt to new technologies is equally important. Ensuring employees understand the benefits and functionality of new systems fosters a culture of innovation and efficiency. Regular training sessions and feedback loops help organisations refine their approach and adapt to new challenges as they arise. Phased implementation of technology can facilitate a smoother transition. Starting with pilot projects allows companies to test new systems on a smaller scale before a full rollout. This method helps identify potential issues and adjust strategies accordingly, minimising disruptions to ongoing operations. Monitoring the performance of newly implemented technology is essential for continuous improvement. Regular assessment measures the effectiveness of solutions, allowing businesses to make data-driven adjustments as needed. By evaluating technology performance routinely, companies can ensure they maximise the benefits such tools offer.

Gateley CEO “pleased” with half year results as revenue and profit rise

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Gateley CEO “pleased” with half year results as revenue and profit rise

The CEO of Gateley, the professional services group, has said he is “pleased” with the acquisitive firm’s half year results.

For the six months ended 31 October 2024, group revenue grew to £86.3m, up from £82m in the same period of the year prior. Meanwhile, group underlying profit before tax rose to £10.6m, up from £10m. The results saw growth in legal services revenue (2.1%) overshadowed by revenue from consultancy services, which grew 13.6%.

Rod Waldie, Chief Executive Officer of Gateley, said: “I am pleased with the Group’s performance in H1 25.

“The Group continues to benefit from the resilience created by our strategy of investing in a diverse and complementary range of professional services. We are pleased that our more recent organic investments are beginning to generate positive returns alongside the strong performance from our recently acquired businesses.

“Our balance sheet provides a strong foundation from which to take a long-term view of potential opportunities to further invest in both legal and consultancy services.

“Finally, as always, I would like to thank our clients for their support and our dedicated people for their ongoing hard work, commitment and can-do attitude.”

Derby industrial property sold

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Derby industrial property sold
On behalf of private clients, FHP Property Consultants have sold Units 4 – 6 Downing Road, West Meadows Industrial Estate, Derby. The property is situated on Downing Road, which is conveniently located close to Pentagon Island at the intersection of the A52 and A61. The premises originally comprised three industrial/warehouse units which have all recently been combined and linked together providing 28,675ft2. The accommodation provides clear span space and has recently refurbished offices. The unit has been sold to a local owner/occupier who required the space due to expansion. Darran Severn of FHP Property Consultants said: “I am pleased this transaction has completed in what has been a great result for both our client and the purchaser. The unit itself provides good quality warehouse accommodation which is perfect for storage and distribution. “There remains good demand for freehold warehouse units in Derby and further afield due to shortage in supply. As a result, I am currently speaking with several parties that missed out on this opportunity and would be delighted to hear about any available units.”
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