Tuesday, November 4, 2025

Inflationary pressures soften in September for East Midlands businesses

Tess Egginton
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Inflationary pressures soften in September for East Midlands businesses
East Midlands firms signalled a fresh fall in output during September, according to the latest NatWest Regional Growth Tracker, but inflationary pressures eased on the month. At 47.4 in September, the headline NatWest East Midlands Business Activity Index was down from 53.3 in August, and indicated a drop in output levels. Nonetheless, the average reading over the third quarter was the highest since the final three months of 2024. The decrease contrasted with growth seen in August, as companies highlighted weak demand conditions and a steep downturn in new orders. The pace of decline in new business quickened, as a subdued sales environment also dampened business confidence and employment. Meanwhile, cost pressures eased to the softest in nine months, with East Midlands businesses moderating the pace of charge inflation in a bid to remain competitive and drive new sales. Lisa Phillips, regional managing director, Midlands and East, commerical mid markets, said: “There’s been grounds for optimism in September as the pace of increase in input prices softened to the slowest in 2025 to-date. Subsequently, firms were able to offer more competitive prices to their customers, as the pace of output charge inflation also cooled. “However, the region’s private sector ended the third quarter on a less stable footing as a drop in new orders led output to dip into contraction territory. Customer hesitancy and uncertainty in the economic outlook weighed on demand conditions and business confidence.” Performance in relation to UK The contraction in output diverged from the UK average which signalled broadly unchanged activity levels on the month. September data indicated a further contraction in new business at private sector firms in the region, with the rate of decline accelerating. The pace of decrease was softer than the recent record seen in July, however. The contraction in new sales was the strongest of the 12 monitored UK areas. Although East Midlands firms remained confident of a rise in output over the coming year the degree of optimism slipped and was below the series average. Nonetheless, the level of confidence was only slightly below the UK trend. East Midlands private sector firms registered a sharper decline in employment at the end of the third quarter. The strong decrease was sharper than the UK average, but less marked than was seen on average at the start of the year. Reduced pressure on capacity at firms was signalled through a further contraction in backlogs of work during September. Of the 12 monitored UK areas, only Wales recorded a steeper decline in unfinished work. Private sector firms in the East Midlands indicated a further rise in cost burdens during September. Higher operating expenses were linked to hikes in wage bills, as well as greater raw material and transportation prices. The rate of increase was the second-slowest of the 12 monitored UK areas, faster than only the North East. In an effort to remain competitive, companies recorded a less marked rise in output prices in September. The pace of increase was the weakest in three months and below the series trend. The rate of charge inflation was also softer than the UK average, with only Wales, the North West and Scotland seeing slower upticks in selling prices.

Plans lodged for next phase at Derby’s Castleward redevelopment scheme

Tess Egginton
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Plans lodged for next phase at Derby’s Castleward redevelopment scheme
A planning application has been submitted for the next phase of the Castleward redevelopment in Derby. Phase five will see 167 new homes built around Canal Street and New Street, with 30% being affordable homes. Castleward is a partnership project between Derby City Council, regeneration specialists Compendium Living, housing developer Lovell Partnerships, and Homes England. The £100 million development, situated between Derbion shopping centre and Derby Midland Station, is one of the city’s largest housing projects. In total, the scheme will provide around 700 new homes, as well as green space and nearly 35,000 sq ft of commercial retail space. It is a long-term placemaking project, being delivered over a period of 15 to 20 years. Councillor Shiraz Khan, cabinet member for housing, strategic planning and regulatory services, said: “I’m excited to see work begin on this fifth phase of Castleward Urban Village, but for now we will let the planning process run its course and look forward to an outcome later this year. “The multi-million-pound Castleward regeneration scheme has already breathed new life to this city centre brownfield site, providing hundreds of new homes, a new school, new independent businesses, and a more attractive route between the Derbion and the railway station. Delivering the final phase will help us build a Derby to be proud of.” Bruce Lister, managing director of Compendium Living, said: “We are delighted that the plans for the next phase of Castleward have been submitted, Castleward is such a significant project for us, and we take great pride in delivering this massive project alongside our partners. We are eager to continue to offer a mix of high-quality housing in the area for the people of Derby, if the planning application is successful.” Beth Bundonis, regional managing director at Lovell in the East Midlands, said: “The latest phase of our Castleward development highlights the continuation of vital regeneration work. Subject to planning approval, we’re excited to deliver the next chapter of this dynamic city quarter in partnership with Compendium, Homes England and Derby City Council.”

Splitstone Capital moves to acquire UK lead recycling business Ecobat Resources

April Lara
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Splitstone Capital moves to acquire UK lead recycling business Ecobat Resources

London-based private equity firm Splitstone Capital has agreed to acquire Ecobat Resources UK Limited, the country’s largest lead battery recycling business, from US parent company Ecobat LLC.

The deal, structured as a corporate carve-out, will see Ecobat Resources transition to standalone ownership under Splitstone’s management. The company operates Europe’s biggest lead battery recycling plant in Matlock, Derbyshire, along with a sheet lead production facility in Welwyn Garden City.

Together, these sites form the UK’s largest integrated lead recycling and refining operation, processing used lead-acid batteries and scrap lead into refined materials for use across automotive, industrial, and construction sectors. The company achieves a lead recovery rate of more than 99%, contributing significantly to the UK’s circular economy.

Splitstone will fund the acquisition through £100 million in committed capital, alongside £40 million in additional facilities to support future growth.

Peter Foxwood, Managing Partner of Splitstone Capital, said: “Ecobat Resources UK is a strongly-performing market leader with a vital and enduring role in the circular economy. We are excited to support the Managing Director, John Manning, and his team as they build on the company’s impressive heritage. This transaction exemplifies the kind of complex carve-outs we actively seek out, where focus, pace and creativity are essential to deliver a successful outcome.”

The deal remains subject to regulatory approvals and customary closing conditions.

South Nottingham industrial units snapped up

Tess Egginton
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South Nottingham industrial units snapped up
Midlands-based property developer and asset manager, Rotherhill, has completed the sale and letting of two industrial units at the Nottingham South and Wilford industrial estate. The disposals follow Rotherhill’s acquisition of the units in February 2024. The property was purchased with residual income, with the two units combined and occupied under existing lease agreements that expired within six months of the purchase date. The two units are situated within a wider terrace and extend to 9,713 sq ft and 24,732 sq ft respectively. Unit 21 (9,713 sq ft), comprising a modern warehouse with integrated offices and benefitting from extensive on-site parking, was sold earlier this year to Eden Tyres & Servicing. Unit 22/23 (24,732 sq ft) has been let on a 10-year full repairing and insuring lease to Cellcom Limited. Cellcom is the official UK supplier for DJI, one of the world’s largest drone manufacturers, and Dreame Technology, a home appliances specialist. The new lease will support Cellcom’s expanding distribution operations as well as its retail presence, with flagship outlets on Regent Street and in Westfield White City in London, and Corporation Street in Birmingham. Both transactions involved collaboration with several Nottingham agents, Will Torr of heb, Tim Gibertson of FHP, and Sean Bremner of CPP. Will Torr, partner at heb Surveyors, said: “Due to the strength of the location, units rarely trade on Nottingham South & Wilford Industrial Estate and this formed a significant part of the initial acquisition rationale. It has been a collaborative effort to see both units now occupied by thriving independent East Midlands based businesses.” Tim Gilbertson, director, FHP, added: “A pleasure once more to help Rotherhill with the disposal of these units, a real team effort saw us identify and secure deals with the two eventual occupiers, both taking advantage of the fabulous ‘south of the river’ location that this estate offers in Nottingham.” Sean Bremner of CPP said: “We are delighted to have secured Cellcom for Rotherhill. We were aware of this enquiry upon our agency appointment and worked hard to convince Cellcom this was the right solution to their requirement. We wish them every success in their continued business expansion.” Ed Jeffrey, director at Rotherhill, said: “We’re pleased to have sold Unit 21 earlier this year to Eden Tyres, a large East Midlands family-run business, and to have brought a respected national occupier into Unit 22/23. It’s great to have helped facilitate their continued growth and success. “The disposals are a result of the excellent advice provided by our retained agents, heb, FHP and CPP, throughout. These new occupiers add to the quality of the industrial estate generally and both transactions underline the continued demand for well-located, modern industrial space which is in short supply.”

Derbyshire childcare apprenticeship expert wins Outstanding Contribution Award

Tess Egginton
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Derbyshire childcare apprenticeship expert wins Outstanding Contribution Award
A Long Eaton childcare apprenticeship expert has been recognised nationally for her exceptional impact on the early years sector. Kate Bickley, head of apprenticeships at Storal, has won the Outstanding Contribution Award at the Nursery World Awards 2025, which celebrate excellence across early years education. Kate has devoted her career to early years education for more than two decades. She began as a nursery nurse in 2000 and has gone on to specialise in training and workforce development. Over the years, she has supported hundreds of apprentices to qualify and progress, while also helping colleagues across the sector grow in confidence and skill. Today, she leads Storal’s national apprenticeship programme, shaping the careers of the next generation of early years professionals. The Outstanding Contribution Award recognises an ‘unsung hero’ in early years education – someone whose dedication, experience and support for others make a lasting difference. Kate became head of early years apprenticeships for Storal following the acquisition of Children 1st Day Nurseries in 2024. Prior to this, she spent more than a decade as director of training at the Children 1st Academy, where she was responsible for the professional development of more than 600 staff across 24 nurseries. Commenting on her award, Kate said: “I’m absolutely over the moon. Supporting apprentices and colleagues to develop their skills and confidence is something I’ve always been passionate about, and to see so many of them flourish in their careers is what makes this job so special. To be recognised in this way for doing something I love means the world to me.” Sarah Mackenzie, CEO of Storal, said: “Kate thoroughly deserves this award, and we are incredibly proud to see her contribution recognised on a national stage. “She has devoted her career to training and supporting others, and the results speak for themselves. Over the years, she has guided hundreds of apprentices and colleagues, helping them to gain qualifications, grow in confidence and build lasting careers in early years education. “What sets Kate apart is her ability to combine real expertise with genuine care for the people she supports. She inspires those around her and is a role model for both new entrants to the sector and experienced practitioners alike. We are lucky to have her as part of Storal.”

Cooper Parry expands Scottish operations with Hutcheon Mearns acquisition

April Lara
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0
Cooper Parry expands Scottish operations with Hutcheon Mearns acquisition

Cooper Parry has strengthened its Scottish presence through the acquisition of Aberdeen-based financial consultancy Hutcheon Mearns. The move follows the firm’s rapid growth in Edinburgh and forms part of a broader national expansion strategy.

Hutcheon Mearns, founded in 2015, employs more than 70 staff across Scotland and London. The firm specialises in finance team development, corporate finance, M&A advisory, and process optimisation through business and artificial intelligence tools. Its client base spans energy, manufacturing, food and drink, technology, professional services, and real estate sectors.

This is Cooper Parry’s sixth acquisition since partnering with New York private equity firm Lee Equity Partners earlier this year. The deal pushes its pro forma turnover past £250 million, supporting its long-term goals of reaching £600 million by 2028 and £1 billion by 2030.

The integration brings Cooper Parry’s Scottish workforce to around 100 employees and broadens its service offering across the UK and Ireland. The firm aims to leverage Hutcheon Mearns’ expertise and regional reputation to accelerate growth in advisory and finance transformation services nationwide.

Ade Cheatham, CEO, Cooper Parry, said, “There’s such pace and energy for us in Scotland right now. Our vision is all about new capabilities, new tech and new markets. What Craig and Adam have built creates an awesome people-first footprint for us to roll out UK-wide. Together, we’re not just building a firm, we’re building a movement.”

Doorset Solutions expands with new Mansfield facility

April Lara
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Doorset Solutions expands with new Mansfield facility

Doorset Solutions has purchased a 20,000 sq ft industrial unit in Mansfield as part of its ongoing expansion. The property, situated on Long Stoop Way at the Crown Farm Industrial Estate, was previously occupied by Jeremias UK and forms part of a 1.3-acre site.

The building comprises warehouse and office accommodation, offering clear-span space with six-metre eaves rising to 8.2 metres, alongside a secure yard and 79 parking spaces. Constructed in 2003, it features a steel portal frame with brick and blockwork walls and profile cladding.

The site also provides a 270 kVA power supply and fully enclosed, gated access suitable for large-scale manufacturing operations.

Anthony Barrowcliffe of FHP said, “This was a particularly tricky deal however I am delighted with the outcome selling the building to Integrated Doorset Solutions Limited aiding their expansion and growth and to fulfil their ever growing customer base. There were lots of elements to this deal to include having to deal with the long leasehold with The Welbeck Estate, alongside ground rents and unclaimed rent reviews but thankfully we got this over the line with everyone’s combined effort. I wish the tenant success going forwards.”

New logistics hub planned near M1 could deliver 1,000 jobs

April Lara
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New logistics hub planned near M1 could deliver 1,000 jobs

Caddick has lodged a planning application with Hinckley and Bosworth Borough Council for a major employment development close to Junction 22 of the M1.

The proposal outlines an industrial and logistics park covering around 700,000 square feet across six units. The site has been identified as a strategic employment area within the council’s emerging local plan.

If approved, the scheme is projected to create over 1,000 jobs, spanning construction, operations, and long-term, skilled positions. It is also expected to contribute approximately £2.5 million in annual business rates, supporting local services and the regional economy.

East Midlands Mayor unveils 10-year plan to drive inclusive growth and create thousands of jobs

Tess Egginton
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East Midlands Mayor unveils 10-year plan to drive inclusive growth and create thousands of jobs
Residents across Derbyshire and Nottinghamshire could see better jobs, more affordable homes, and stronger, fairer communities through a new, 10-year growth plan launched today. The East Midlands Growth Plan 2025-2035 sets out a long-term vision to deliver “fast, fair growth for all,” ensuring every community and resident across Derby, Derbyshire, Nottingham and Nottinghamshire benefits from economic progress. The plan will add £13 billion to the regional economy and support 60,000 more people into work over the next decade. It also sets goals to deliver more than 100,000 homes, 210,000 new qualifications, and invest more than £2bn in new transport infrastructure to better connect people to jobs and opportunity. At its heart is a commitment to inclusive growth, ensuring the proceeds of economic success are shared fairly, with investment directed where it will have the greatest impact on people’s lives. Mayor of the East Midlands, Claire Ward said: “For the first time, we have a growth plan that is backed by the region and puts us in pole position to succeed. “This plan is about unlocking growth while tackling inequality, creating better jobs, fairer pay, and new opportunities in every community. By working with business, government, and local partners, we can build a stronger, more inclusive economy that delivers for everyone. “The East Midlands has the people, the ideas and the determination to drive Britain’s growth. We must now turn our potential into prosperity, creating the right conditions for business to thrive and local people to succeed.” The plan identifies key sectors which will power future growth, including clean energy, MedTech and life sciences, advanced manufacturing, digital industries, and the visitor economy. It also outlines major place-based projects such as the Trent Arc and Supercluster, which together could deliver £3.3bn in economic value and create more than 55,000 high-quality jobs. EMCCA’s Inclusive Growth Framework, developed from the East Midlands Inclusive Growth Commission’s findings, is a key step in ensuring everyone in the region benefits from growth. It sets out a vision for 2040 in which every young person has a fair start, every resident has a route to good work, and every community shares in the region’s success. Using practical ideas like better skills, housing, transport, and the Opportunity Escalator pathway to better jobs, the Framework aims to turn this vision into action. The East Midlands Growth Plan puts the Framework into practice by guiding investment, supporting local industries, and creating thriving communities with fair opportunities for all. Mayor Claire said: “I want the East Midlands to be one of the UK’s fastest growing and most inclusive regional economies – a place where people are proud to live, work, and build their futures. This plan is the roadmap to get us there.” The Growth Plan was formally approved by the EMCCA Board today (Monday 13 October 2025) before being launched at Derby’s Museum of Making. David Williams, chair of EMCCA’s business advisory board, said: “This is an exciting plan with a bold ambition to place the East Midlands at the very forefront of the UK economy, especially in key, growing sectors such as clean energy, medical technology and advanced manufacturing. “Backed by a stronger local skills base, with more apprenticeships and graduate retention, businesses will be supported to grow, scale and innovate, with upgraded infrastructure to cut costs and boost competitiveness, alongside improved access to finance, investment, and export markets.”

Monarch Security launches Highfield-approved training centre in Derby

Tess Egginton
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0
Monarch Security launches Highfield-approved training centre in Derby
A Derby-based security company, Monarch Security, is now delivering nationally recognised, industry-standard SIA training to new and existing security professionals. Founded in 2020 by Farhaan Bhatti and Phil Wright, Monarch Security has grown rapidly, providing a wide range of services including static guarding, mobile patrols, door supervision, K9 units, close/VIP protection, event stewarding, alarm response, and keyholding. The company serves clients across the East Midlands, the UK, and internationally – with contracts ranging from major hotel chains to football stadiums. Monarch has now become a Highfield-approved training centre, one of the UK’s leading awarding bodies for security qualifications. Training will be delivered from Monarch’s Derby training facility, combining Highfield’s nationally recognised courses with Monarch’s real-world, operational expertise to raise standards within the industry. In addition to enhancing industry skills, the new training centre will also create valuable job opportunities across the East Midlands. By helping individuals gain the qualifications and confidence needed to enter or advance in the security sector, Monarch aims to open clear career pathways for those seeking long-term, professional development within the industry. Courses will cover areas such as door supervision, security guarding, close protection, CCTV, spectator safety, and first aid, delivered through a blend of classroom and e-learning sessions. A range of security-related courses will be available. Phil Wright, co-owner and director at Monarch Security, said: “We’re proud to be delivering Highfield-approved qualifications here in Derby. Having operated a successful security company, we know exactly what clients expect from staff – professionalism, reliability, and high standards. Our extensive frontline experience ensures that every learner receives practical, work-based training that prepares them for real-world situations.” Farhaan Bhatti, managing director of Monarch Security, added: “Our goal is to raise the quality of security training across the industry. By combining our hands-on operational experience with Highfield’s nationally recognised qualifications, we ensure every learner achieves the highest professional standard.”
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