Marketing agency pledges to reveal ‘Derby’s best-kept secret’

Stuart Pearcey
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Marketing agency pledges to reveal ‘Derby’s best-kept secret’

South Normanton-based Purpose Media’s pledged to reveal the best-kept secret amongst Derby’s heating engineers.

The company will use giveaways, competitions, incentives and social media adverts to raise awareness of city-based heating engineers S O’Brien Heating Solutions Limited from this autumn onwards.

The campaign is designed to help the company to grow its customer base by promoting its gas and LPG boiler maintenance service to householders and business owners in and around Derby.

Company boss Steve O’Brien said his firm’s history of working for other firms meant that, although it is so well-established and successful, relatively few people knew of it.

He approached Purpose Media MD Matt Wheatcroft for help, having previous collaborating on a number of charity golf days, including an event in June held to raise funds for this year’s Cairns Cup, disability golf’s equivalent of the Ryder Cup.

Purpose began by bringing the company’s website up to speed to ensure that it can process inquiries before devising its marketing campaign, which will include online advertising, literature and commercial partnerships with Marketing Derby, The East Midlands Chamber of Trade, Derbyshire Cricket Club and Derby County Football Club.

Among the activities will be staff discounts for companies which sign up as customers and a sponsored takeover day when the Rams take on Norwich City at Pride Park on September 28.

Matt said: “I’ve known Steve for about 18 months and we have sponsored golf events together, so I was only too happy to help him raise his profile to help him attract customers in the city.

“Steve’s company is extremely successful and his potential customer base is huge but, as he admits, he has a very low profile in the city, so his company is almost like Derby’s best-kept secret.

“We’re looking forward to helping him change that. We started by ensuring his website was optimised and have put together a campaign for both B2C and B2B audiences which will get going when the weather starts to cool down and people start thinking about their heating from September onwards.”

347-acre Rushcliffe plot hits the market

Tess Egginton
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347-acre Rushcliffe plot hits the market
An area of land which is situated on a prominent and well-known location in Nottingham has come onto the market with potential for agricultural grazing or a range of outdoor leisure pursuits. The 347-acre plot comprises grasslands, forests and open water with an abundance of natural habitats. The land is adjoined to Holme Pierrepont Country Park and the National Watersports Centre. Land development and property consultancy Mather Jamie has been appointed to sell the land by the current owners, with bids invited in excess of £4.5m. Gary Kirk, Director of Mather Jamie, said: “This is an extremely rare opportunity to acquire a large parcel of land with potential for a variety of uses, situated on the fringe of Nottingham with exceptional potential for development of a variety of alternative uses.” The land was formerly subject to sand and gravel extraction which has created the wetland habitat and large body of open water. Quarrying activities, which started in the area in the 1940’s, ceased in approximately 2004. Alternative uses considered within the current particulars include buildings for agriculture and forestry, outdoor sports and recreation including leisure uses and other potential alternative uses for the site.

Chamber-Toyota partnership brings energy efficiency to life for SMEs

Tess Egginton
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Chamber-Toyota partnership brings energy efficiency to life for SMEs
SMEs in the East Midlands are learning first-hand about energy efficiency measures being implemented at Toyota Motor Manufacturing in Derby, thanks to a new initiative between the global powerhouse and East Midlands Chamber. The fully funded Energy Reduction workshop, part of the Accelerator project funded by the UK Government through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund, provides a rare opportunity to experience a practical demonstration and shop floor observation with Toyota Energy Specialists. Decarbonisation and how the company has applied sound energy costs management are high on the agenda. Feedback from businesses at the first workshop in July was that Toyota’s step-by-step explanations about its improvements, supported by visual aids and storyboards, will provide immense value when it comes to implementing their own energy-saving measures. Penny Engineering Managing Director Robin Penny said: “To be able to see firsthand how a premier, worldwide manufacturer reduces its carbon footprint is very valuable for an SME. I can’t think of any work environments where this could not be applied.” Midland Lead Managing Director Francoise Derksen said: “I operate a manufacturing plant and our energy reduction and sustainable manufacturing is an important focus. We have made lots of investments but we now need to look at behaviours and change our way of working. Lots of great ideas today.” East Midlands Chamber Deputy Chief Executive Diane Beresford said: “SMEs gaining such valuable takeaways from Toyota’s practical observations and shopfloor demonstrations was exactly what we wanted. “Toyota Manufacturing UK has over 30 years of energy kaizen experience which has resulted in significant energy reductions, technological breakthroughs and all that means when it comes to improved competitiveness. Supporting SMEs in accessing this know-how means widening the impact of Toyota’s efforts and investment in this area.”

Flint Bishop gears up for ambitous growth strategy

Tess Egginton
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Flint Bishop gears up for ambitous growth strategy
Law firm Flint Bishop has announced its incorporation from Flint Bishop LLP to Flint Bishop Limited. This strategic move comes on the heels of the firm’s most successful financial year to date and is designed to support its ambitious growth plans in the coming months. For the fiscal year ending 30 April 2024, Flint Bishop achieved record-breaking results with annual turnover climbing to over £21m. The firm’s workforce has also expanded significantly, surpassing 250 employees for the first time in its history. Commenting on the firm’s transformation, Qamer Ghafoor, Chief Executive of Flint Bishop, said: “Our incorporation marks a pivotal moment in Flint Bishop’s journey. This change in structure will enable us to pursue our aggressive growth strategy more effectively, including planned organic expansion and strategic acquisitions. We are immensely proud of our staff, our culture, and the clients we are working with.” Ghafoor further elaborated on the firm’s strategic focus: “As we move forward, we will concentrate on five key areas: profitable growth, financial performance, development of our clients and people, management of risk, and enhancing our brand and reputation. Our new corporate group structure will allow us to develop brands and non-legal services, building scale without compromising our culture.” The firm has already begun implementing its growth plans, with several key initiatives underway:
  • Recruitment of lateral hires and experienced staff across multiple practice areas
  • Expansion of the firm’s national presence and market recognition
  • Diversification of client base and service offerings
“We are positioning Flint Bishop for significant further growth,” Ghafoor added. “Our trajectory is clear – we aim to become a recognised national player in the legal industry, while maintaining the values and culture that have been instrumental to our success.” The incorporation follows a series of strategic moves by Flint Bishop, including the recent appointment of Karen Walker as Chief Operating Officer and the acquisition of new state-of-the-art headquarters in Derby. As Flint Bishop embarks on this new chapter, the firm remains committed to maintaining its reputation for excellence in legal services while pursuing ambitious expansion plans.

Entrepreneurial appetite returns to East Midlands after change in government, but economic backdrop remains mixed

Tess Egginton
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Entrepreneurial appetite returns to East Midlands after change in government, but economic backdrop remains mixed
The number of new businesses set up in the East Midlands has begun to rise once more, after a steep and sustained fall in May following the announcement of the General Election. This is according to the Midlands branch of national insolvency and restructuring trade body R3 and is based on a monthly analysis of regional start-up data from business intelligence provider Creditsafe. R3’s figures indicate there were 2,249 companies set up in the East Midlands in July, which is a rise of 5.04% in comparison with the June figure, and 8.33% higher than the 2,076 start-ups in May. R3’s data also show some improvement in the wider local economy as debts owed by East Midlands businesses in liquidation decreased by 10.95% last month against the previous month, and by 37.11% compared to January. The broader economic picture remains unpredictable, however, as the number of East Midlands companies with late payments on their books has risen steadily since the start of the year, reaching 23,917 last month compared to 23,194 in January. R3 Midlands chair Stephen Rome, a partner at Penningtons Manches Cooper in the region, said: “It’s encouraging to see entrepreneurs becoming more confident and willing to push ahead with their new business plans. Lower inflation and the prospect of greater sales opportunities appear to be having some effect. “However, we have yet to see the full impact of the General Election on the economy and purchasing decisions, and many directors of potential start-ups – and existing businesses – are concerned about customer demand, staff turnover and meeting regulatory requirements. “With economic instability a driving factor, the new Government has committed to a number of policies designed to boost our local business community. The pledge to reform business rates to be fairer may benefit many East Midlands companies, particularly those in the retail and hospitality sector. “Plans to introduce legislation to tackle late payments, if effective, will improve cashflow for local businesses – especially valuable for vulnerable start-ups – and could free up resources to allow firms to focus on investment and growth rather than chasing up overdue invoices. “Such measures will, undoubtedly, take time to introduce. Therefore, R3’s advice to any directors worried about the viability of their company, start-up or otherwise, is to seek professional help and to do it as soon as possible. Many R3 Midlands members offer a free initial consultation to those who wish to explore their options.”

Derby investment fraudster gets 15-year bankruptcy restrictions

Stuart Pearcey
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Derby investment fraudster gets 15-year bankruptcy restrictions
A former investment firm director from Derby has become subject to stringent bankruptcy restrictions after duping people into handing over money in an investment fraud. Andrew Paul Bird, 60, from Church Road, Quarndon, was handed the maximum 15-year restriction after the Official Receiver discovered he had knowingly misled investors and exposed them to the risk of losing money for his personal gain. Robin Dury, Official Receiver at the Insolvency Service, said: “Andrew Bird purposely deceived people who trusted him into handing over money for what they believed to be secure investments.

“We are pleased that these lengthy Bankruptcy Restrictions will prevent him causing further harm to people, by curtailing his business activities for a long time.”

Bankruptcy Restrictions prevent Bird acting as a company director without the court’s permission, or borrowing more than £500 without declaring that he is subject to the restrictions. They also prevent him taking up certain roles in public organisations. Bird was first made bankrupt in November 2016, and later became subject to a five-year interim Bankruptcy Restrictions Order, which was imposed by the courts in January 2018 to prevent him causing further harm while he awaited a criminal trial for his fraudulent actions. The interim order was made on application by the Official Receiver following an investigation into Bird’s affairs as a bankrupt. The investment scheme purported to use money from investors to trade on a trading platform and return a profit on their investments. But between 1 January 2011 and 31 August 2016 Bird knowingly gave false information to investors for his own personal gain, and received an eight-year jail sentence at Nottingham Crown Court on 1 August 2024. The Official Receiver secured a signed undertaking by Bird, in which he agreed to be bound by the bankruptcy restrictions until 24 January 2033 – extending them for a full 15 years, from the date of the interim order in January 2018. The Secretary of State for Business and Trade accepted the undertaking on 15 July 2024. Bird did not dispute that he had acted dishonestly by misleading 13 different parties – including both individuals and couples – to invest in a scheme which exposed them to potential losses. His actions were a breach of the Fraud Act 2006.

Corby looks for volunteers to boost Towns Deal Board.

Stuart Pearcey
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Corby looks for volunteers to boost Towns Deal Board.
North Northamptonshire Council are seeking new members for the Corby Towns Deal Board. The Council would like to continue the success of the Corby Town Deal Board, which meets every six weeks via Teams, and is looking for voluntary representatives to join the Board and bring their skills and local knowledge to assist with the development and completion of the Town Fund projects. It is seeking individuals who can reflect and represent different sectors across Corby such as communities, business, charity, culture, educational and heritage interests of the area and can make a meaningful contribution to the Board.

Cariad Babi wins Derbion ‘new store’ contest

Stuart Pearcey
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Cariad Babi wins Derbion ‘new store’ contest
Derbion will be welcoming a new independent brand after announcing baby and children’s retailer Cariad Babi as the winner of its Hatch competition. Hatch offers small business owners the opportunity to take their brand to the next level and open a store within the centre. The prize includes a rent-free store in Derbion for six weeks. Established by Derbyshire-based entrepreneur Kia Roberts in 2019, Cariad Babi specialises in providing rear facing car seats and baby carriers that exceed safety standards. Kia said: “Our vision is to build a community of parents that support, and feel supported by, other parents of Derbyshire. “Being able to open a store within Derbion will help us take the next step up, as well as help grow our brand and network across the region.” Beth McDonald, MD at Derbion, said: “For five years, our renowned Hatch competition has provided entrepreneurs from across the East Midlands with the chance to take the next step and open a physical store in a shopping centre. “Cariad Babi impressed the judges with its commitment to excellent and dedication to supporting the needs of the local community, and we are confident that the brand will be a hit with our shoppers.”

Chamber outlines planning asks for East Midlands as government holds public consultation

Tess Egginton
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Chamber outlines planning asks for East Midlands as government holds public consultation
Speeding up planning permission and bringing in the private sector to support local authorities are among asks set out by East Midlands Chamber as the government holds an open consultation on national planning. Government proposals include the building of 1.5 million new homes across the UK, broadening the definition of brownfield land and support for renewable energy.  Respondents have until 24th September to express their views via an online portal. East Midlands Chamber Chief Executive Scott Knowles said: “The planning system has needed significant reform for years. Development takes far too long in the East Midlands, it costs too much and that’s a barrier to businesses unlocking growth, investing, creating new jobs and to the UK’s transition to net zero, as infrastructure projects get delayed. “Whatever the findings of the government’s consultation nationally, we’ve clearly laid out the planning reform needed for this region in our Manifesto for Growth 2024. Staffing issues at councils can be helped by the private sector stepping in; access to the National Grid needs to be easier for renewable energy production and local plans need to reflect the reality of how people live, work and move.”

National vision correction provider moves into Grade A premises in Nottingham

Tess Egginton
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National vision correction provider moves into Grade A premises in Nottingham
A top national vision correction provider has moved into new Grade A premises in Nottingham. Optegra Eye Health Care, which has its head office in London, has expanded onto Apex Court in Wilford, Nottingham after taking a lease on the ground floor of Building C at the business park. The brand-new clinic will provide NHS cataract surgery to local people. Darren Whitelaw, Head of Property and Asset Management for Optegra, said: “We have opened 11 new NHS clinics around the country over the past two years, as we work to support the NHS and deliver timely cataract surgery. Each build has been unique and had its own challenges, while delivering an Optegra-style hospital for patients. “In Nottingham our challenge was to split a two-floor property into two separate units, and then create the hospital on the ground floor. NG have been a pleasure to work with, and very helpful throughout this process. We are delighted with the result and are confident our patients will be too.” Charlotte Steggles, Associate Director at NG, brokered the deal for Optegra’s new premises on behalf of a private landlord client. She said: “It’s fantastic that we’re able to help Optegra with their expansion plans at Apex Court, which continues to be extremely popular given its excellent transport links to not only Nottingham city centre, but the rest of the UK. Our landlord tenant now has a very high calibre client which is growing across the country – and Optegra has some stunning new premises from which to operate. “However, this was a real team effort from my colleagues at NG and the deal only enhances our reputation as a quality full-service agency.” NG Director Jude Weston manages the building on behalf of the landlord, while fellow building consultancy director Paul Rogers procured the Cat A works to split the property and oversaw the tenant’s work. “It’s great to be working closely with our property management and agency colleagues to provide a cohesive and complete property solution to our client,” said Paul. He added: “Our primary focus was to ensure the Cat A works were completed on time, to design and to budget. We were familiar with the property having previously completed insurance reinstatement cost assessments and dilapidation services when the former tenant exited. We have worked closely with the tenant’s representative to approve and monitor the Cat B works.”
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