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RDCP acquires DJL Petfoods Ingredients to drive growth in pet food market

April Lara
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RDCP acquires DJL Petfoods Ingredients to drive growth in pet food market

Investment firm RDCP has acquired DJL Petfoods Ingredients, a supplier of premium pet food ingredients and raw materials based in Nottingham. The financial terms of the deal were not disclosed.

Founded in 2017 by Duncan Lancaster, DJL is positioned for growth under the new ownership, with plans to expand its product offerings and strengthen its sales capabilities. The company operates from a 40,000 sq ft facility and aims to enter new markets by diversifying its ingredients and products.

RDCP’s acquisition marks an increase in its enterprise value to £520m. The investment group intends to leverage DJL’s strong market position and long-standing customer relationships to support its next growth phase. Lancaster will continue as CEO, maintaining a shareholding in the business.

This acquisition is part of RDCP’s broader strategy to expand its consumer-facing investments and establish itself as one of the largest privately-owned investment groups in the UK.

Chocoberry accelerates UK expansion with 50-site target

April Lara
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Chocoberry accelerates UK expansion with 50-site target

Chocoberry, the Leicester-based dessert café chain, has reported a 53% increase in revenue for the first half of 2025. The company is actively pursuing rapid expansion, aiming to reach 50 locations across the UK by the end of 2026.

Founded in 2018, Chocoberry now operates 18 cafés in the UK and additional outlets in the UAE, Turkey, and Canada. Known for its innovative desserts and all-day brunch menu, the brand has attracted strong interest from franchisees, securing eight new franchise agreements this year alone.

The company’s recent growth includes new openings in Manchester, Peterborough, and Leytonstone, and the chain is focused on accelerating its presence across the UK. Chocoberry is also eyeing international expansion, with plans to scale to 100 global locations by 2028, targeting North America, Asia, and the GCC regions.

At the heart of its UK operations is a 5,000 sq ft bakery in Leicester, which supports the production of thousands of baked goods each week, underpinning the company’s growth strategy. As the brand builds momentum, it is actively seeking multi-site franchise partners to facilitate its ambitious growth plans.

Rolls-Royce sees “strong” first half results as progress continues in multi-year transformation

Tess Egginton
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Rolls-Royce sees “strong” first half results as progress continues in multi-year transformation
Rolls-Royce has seen “strong” first half results, driven by continued progress in its multi-year transformation, despite challenges from the supply chain and tariffs. Revenue passed £9bn, growing from an underlying revenue of £8.2bn in the same period last year. Underlying operating profit rose by 50% to £1.7bn, reflecting the impact of strategic initiatives, operational effectiveness, and performance management. Meanwhile, underlying pre-tax profits increased to £1.7bn from £1bn. The results have seen Rolls-Royce raise its full year 2025 guidance, now expecting £3.1bn-£3.2bn underlying operating profit and £3.0bn-£3.1bn free cash flow (previously £2.7bn-£2.9bn underlying operating profit and £2.7bn-£2.9bn free cash flow). Tufan Erginbilgic, CEO, said: “Our multi-year transformation continues to deliver. Our actions led to strong first half year results, despite the challenges of the supply chain and tariffs. We are continuing to expand the earnings and cash potential of Rolls-Royce. “We delivered continued strong operational and strategic progress in the first half of 2025. In Civil Aerospace, we achieved significant time on wing milestones and delivered improved aftermarket profitability. In Power Systems, where we now see further growth potential, we continued to capture profitable growth across data centres and governmental. In addition, Rolls-Royce SMR was selected as the sole provider of the UK’s first small modular reactor programme. We expect Rolls-Royce SMR to be profitable and free cash flow positive by 2030. “A strong start to the year gives us confidence to raise our guidance for 2025. We now expect to deliver underlying operating profit of £3.1bn-£3.2bn and free cash flow of £3.0bn-£3.1bn. This builds further conviction in our mid-term targets, which include underlying operating profit of £3.6bn-£3.9bn and free cash flow of £4.2bn-£4.5bn. We see these targets as a milestone, not a destination, with substantial growth prospects beyond the mid-term.”

Lincolnshire County Council encourages local businesses to enter the East Midlands Bricks Awards 2025

Tess Egginton
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Lincolnshire County Council encourages local businesses to enter the East Midlands Bricks Awards 2025
As the East Midlands Bricks Awards 2025 draws nearer, and with nominations set to close on Friday 15th August, Lincolnshire County Council is encouraging local businesses to enter. Cllr Liam Kelly, executive member for Growth, said: “Lincolnshire’s property and construction sectors have a real impact on communities across the county, from vital infrastructure schemes to extra care housing developments – all while supporting thousands of jobs across the local economy. There’s a lot to be proud of, and I hope that Lincolnshire’s fantastic businesses step forward to get the recognition they deserve at this year’s East Midlands Bricks Awards.” The East Midlands Bricks Awards, which will take place on Thursday 2nd October at Nottingham’s famous Trent Bridge Cricket Ground, celebrates the successes of the property and construction industry in Derbyshire, Nottinghamshire, Leicestershire, Lincolnshire, and Northamptonshire. Entering a company or project for the awards is a great way to showcase your successes, recognise your team’s efforts, bolster morale, and reach our audience of over 60,000 business readers, while also offering a chance to connect with respected professionals. It’s completely free to enter and making the top three finalists in your category also wins you free tickets to the awards ceremony and networking event on Thursday 2nd October, which will welcome Councillor Nadine Peatfield, Leader of Derby City Council and Deputy Mayor of the East Midlands, as keynote speaker. Take this chance to spotlight exceptional new commercial and residential developments, those demonstrating a leading position in sustainability and design excellence; gain recognition as outstanding developers, architects, contractors, and agents, as well as for significant deals; and ensure efforts in corporate social responsibility are rewarded, from eco initiatives to charity work, to social value schemes.

To make a nomination for the 10th annual East Midlands Bricks Awards, please click here, or on the category headings below.

Categories include: All finalists will have the chance to take home the Overall Winner award, which this year comes with a grand prize of a year of marketing/publicity worth £20,000, with the opportunity to split or gift the marketing to a charity of your choice.

Nominations will close on Friday 15th August.

Tickets can now be booked for the East Midlands Bricks Awards 2025, click here to secure yours.

Connect with local decision makers over nibbles and complimentary drinks while applauding the exceptional companies and projects in our region.

New for this year, all entrants will also have the opportunity to be featured on our dedicated nominee showcase on the East Midlands Business Link website, providing space for marketing your achievements.

The East Midlands Bricks Awards 2025

What: The East Midlands Bricks Awards 2025 When: Thursday 2nd October (4.30pm – 7.30pm) Where: Derek Randall Suite, Trent Bridge Cricket Ground, Nottingham Keynote speaker: Councillor Nadine Peatfield – Leader of Derby City Council, Cabinet Member for City Centre, Regeneration, Strategy and Policy, and Deputy Mayor of the East Midlands Tickets: Available here Dress code: Standard business attire Thanks to our sponsors:                                                                        

To be held at:

Transformation of heritage buildings completes in Leicester

Tess Egginton
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Transformation of heritage buildings completes in Leicester
Contractor Henry Brothers Construction has handed over a new workspace development in Leicester which has been created from a cluster of heritage buildings. The conversion at the former Pilot House site on King Street – now named Canopy – is due to open in autumn 2025, with nine of the 25 available workspaces for creative businesses already let. The architects and multidisciplinary practice behind the project, rg+p, was the first business to sign up for a tenancy at Canopy. MD of Henry Brothers Construction Ian Taylor said: “We are incredibly proud to have delivered Canopy, which will breathe new life into this area of Leicester. “The retention of important heritage features like parquet flooring, bricks and beams in the development has created a unique and inviting space for creative businesses, along with visitors who will use the café, meeting rooms, event spaces and conference facilities. “This project strengthens our portfolio of work in Leicester, and it has been good to work with the city council and our construction partners to deliver such a wonderful scheme which offers such potential for the city.” Leicester City Council is leading the £13.3m project to transform the cluster of council-owned former factory buildings into a new development offering 40,000 sq ft of accommodation for creative businesses in the heart of the city centre. The redevelopment will offer a range of attractive workspaces, alongside meeting rooms and conference facilities, a co-working lounge, reception area and outdoor courtyard. The public will also be able to enjoy Canopy’s central hub area which will offer event and exhibition space and a café. Existing heritage features – including exposed brick and beams and original parquet flooring – have been retained. These have been complemented with contemporary elements including a glazed roof in the central hub area and a new entrance on King Street. The design of the new development was developed by rg+p which won the contract following a competitive tendering exercise. The practice will relocate its Leicester studio to Canopy, while maintaining its London and Birmingham studios. Rob Woolston, rg+p’s director, said: “Our connection with the Pilot House buildings is well established, having won the original competition to design its redevelopment in 2022. “Since then, we’ve worked closely with the city council to develop a design to bring this fascinating cluster of former factory buildings back into productive use while retaining their historic character. “With the lease on our current studio ending, we quickly realised the space we were looking for was the one that we are incredibly proud to have helped to create. We’re looking forward to making Canopy our new home when it opens. “This will mark a significant step forward for our continued growth in Leicester, which has been our home for 45 years. Canopy is a great fit for our company and we’re proud to become the anchor tenant.” City Mayor Peter Soulsby said: “This ambitious project is transforming a group of significant but disused heritage buildings into a new creative hub for start-up and growing businesses and a landmark destination that will become a source of pride for Leicester. “Along with supporting hundreds of high-quality jobs in the city’s thriving creative sector, this important redevelopment will contribute to the wider regeneration and prosperity of King Street, Belvoir Street, Market Street and the New Walk area. It will also complement recent landmark developments like the Gresham Building. “The fact that the project’s architects, rg+p were the first confirmed tenants of Canopy is hugely encouraging. It’s a clear endorsement of what a well-considered and architecturally stunning new workspace they have helped to create. It really is shaping up to be a superb development.” Construction work was undertaken by Henry Brothers Construction under contract to Leicester City Council. Other members of the construction team working alongside Henry Brothers and rg+p included structural engineer M-EC. The new workspace community for creative businesses will help support around 250 jobs in the city centre.

East Midlands business confidence drops

Tess Egginton
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East Midlands business confidence drops
Business confidence in the East Midlands fell 13 points during July to 40%, according to the latest Business Barometer from Lloyds. Companies in the East Midlands were less optimistic about the economy, down 22 points month-on-month to 32%. When taken together with their confidence in their own business prospects, down six points at 47%, this gives a headline confidence reading of 40% (vs. 53% in June). Looking ahead to the next six months, East Midlands businesses identified their top target areas for growth as entering new markets (37%), investing in their team, for example through training (35%), and evolving their offering, for example through new products or services (35%). The Business Barometer, which surveys 1,200 businesses monthly and which has been running since 2002, provides early signals about UK economic trends both regionally and nationwide. National picture Overall, UK business confidence increased one point in July to 52% – its highest level since 2015 and the third consecutive monthly increase. Firms’ optimism in their own trading prospects rose one point to 58%, while their confidence in the wider economy increased two points to 47%. Wales was the most confident UK nation or region for the second month in a row (76%), followed by the North East (73%). Sector insights July saw the service sector’s confidence increase by 11 points to 61%, one of the main drivers behind this month’s overall increase in business confidence, indicating strong momentum in the sector. This gain was partially offset by declines in other areas, with retail firms down eight points, manufacturers down four points and the construction sector down six points. Dave Atkinson, regional director for the East Midlands, said: “Despite a dip in overall business confidence, East Midlands firms are still focused on driving growth – whether that’s through entering new markets or investing in further training for their team. As they pursue their ambitions, we’ll continue to be with them every step of the way.”

East Midlands development project could bring 4,250 new homes to the area

April Lara
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East Midlands development project could bring 4,250 new homes to the area

A major development near East Midlands Airport aims to bring 4,250 new homes to the region, with plans for schools, leisure facilities, and commercial spaces. The proposal, set in farmland adjacent to Isley Walton and close to Castle Donington in North West Leicestershire, also includes two primary schools, a secondary school, and a sports centre.

The development, known as Isley Woodhouse, could introduce approximately 10,000 new residents to the area, according to the developers, Harworth Group and Caesarea Development Holdings. It is part of the North West Leicestershire District Council’s local plan, which identifies suitable locations for residential and commercial developments.

In addition to housing, two neighbourhood centres are proposed to include local shops, restaurants, and hotels, along with ample green spaces for residents. The outline application is now submitted for approval, with further details on housing types and layouts to be provided later. The development will offer a range of housing, including detached, semi-detached, terraced, and apartment options.

If approved, the project is expected to support local economic growth and improve infrastructure in the area.

Moulton College partners with Positive Planet to boost sustainability efforts

Tess Egginton
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Moulton College partners with Positive Planet to boost sustainability efforts
Moulton College has partnered with Positive Planet to accelerate its environmental sustainability efforts, marking a step forward in reducing its carbon impact. The move will enable Moulton College to reduce its environmental impact and empower staff and students with the tools, skills, and awareness needed to lower carbon emissions. Positive Planet, a consultancy helping organisations take meaningful action on climate change, will support Moulton College through a range of initiatives including carbon footprint measurement, emissions reduction planning, staff training, stakeholder engagement, and the delivery of impactful sustainability programmes. Oliver Symons, principal and chief executive, Moulton College, said: “We are committed to helping tackle climate change by minimising our impact on the environment, promoting sustainability, and incorporating environmental best practise into our teaching and learning. Positive Planet will work with us to produce and embed a comprehensive suite of sustainability actions and knowledge, enabling us to meet our environmental goals and positively impact our local community.” Moulton College has undertaken a series of measures to date as part of its Sustainability Strategy, which is based on the FE Climate Action Roadmap and the Department for Education’s Sustainability and Climate Change Strategy, including moving to recycled paper stock for its printed marketing materials and rolling out projects including rewilding and water harvesting at the land-based College’s agricultural hub. Moulton College also plays a role in the development of Green Skills locally, having introduced tailored courses focusing on solar panel installation. As part of the collaboration and to measure its impact, Positive Planet will provide an independent measurement of current emissions and will then work closely with Moulton College on a plan to reduce its impact on the planet, as it takes steps to achieve Positive Planet Certified Bronze accreditation. In addition, Positive Planet will deliver Carbon Literacy training to 20 staff members at the College, including its sustainability ambassadors and curriculum staff, to equip employees with the practical knowledge needed to ensure the College can achieve its carbon reduction aims. Oliver adds: “The training will give our workforce the tools and insight needed to understand the impact of everyday activities on climate change and how to reduce them. We’re delighted to be working with Positive Planet as part of our goal of Net Zero by 2030.” Stephen Henry, co-founder, Positive Planet, added: “We’re excited to partner with Moulton College to strengthen their sustainability journey. Our work will include a detailed carbon footprint analysis, practical carbon reduction strategies, and tailored training to support their Net Zero goals. Together, we’ll ensure these initiatives create lasting benefits for both the College community and its wider stakeholders.”

Infinity Park Derby to drive growth through Investment Zone inclusion

April Lara
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Infinity Park Derby to drive growth through Investment Zone inclusion

Infinity Park Derby is set to become a catalyst for economic growth, as proposals to integrate the site into the East Midlands Investment Zone (EMIZ) gain traction. The new status, aimed at attracting investment, is expected to generate thousands of high-value jobs and stimulate the local economy.

The plan, which was submitted to the Government in March 2024, includes designating Infinity Park as a Business Rates Retention area. This move allows Derby City Council to retain a portion of the business rates, which will be reinvested in infrastructure projects and local services, boosting Derby’s economic prospects.

The park’s integration into EMIZ offers a series of tax incentives to businesses operating within the area, encouraging innovation, particularly in green technologies and advanced manufacturing. These sectors are central to Derby’s broader strategy of becoming a leading hub for sustainable industries.

Infinity Park Derby, already an established business district, is strategically located near key players like Rolls-Royce and Toyota. The new status will further enhance its appeal as a location for investment, as businesses benefit from access to tax incentives and a thriving local economy.

This step is part of a broader effort by Derby City Council to position the city as a prime destination for high-value industries, providing long-term economic benefits and job opportunities for local communities.

Peveril Homes

Tess Egginton
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Peveril Homes
A family-owned and managed company, Peveril Homes has been building new homes for over forty years. At the head office in Belper, the experienced team of professionals, including architects and designers, creates homes that fit the needs of customers. Peveril uses the latest building methods, materials and advances in energy efficiency, and builds beautiful quality homes that will stand the test of time.
Abbey Central
For Peveril it’s not about being the biggest, it’s about being the best. They take care of building your home, so you can build a life in it. Committed to creating thriving communities, not just homes, Peveril is a housebuilder that cares and engages with the community. It makes contributions above and beyond statutory section 106 agreements to support the surrounding areas in which it builds. This includes sponsoring many local events and providing much needed funding to them to ensure they can continue to run. Passionate about working with local schools and pledging to donate funds to help them with children’s education and various projects, Peveril regularly invites classes to developments to inform and educate children on the processes of a new-build construction.
Abbey Central
With a focus on promoting a ‘family feel’ – the business is based on family values around stability, opportunity, quality of life, honesty and tradition. Peveril is committed to training, developing and rewarding its people. Peveril Homes and Stagfield Group’s flagship joint development Abbey Central was recently named ‘Residential Development of the Year, under 100 plots’ at the Midlands Residential Property Awards. Located on the former Rushcliffe Borough Council Recycling Depot in West Bridgford, Nottingham, Abbey Central is a transformational development that has turned brownfield land into a vibrant, sustainable community. This visionary scheme delivers 71 high-quality new homes – including 21 affordable homes – and sets a new benchmark for low-carbon, family-friendly urban living.
Abbey Central
As one of the largest No-Gas developments in the region, Abbey Central features Air Source Heat Pumps, Solar PV panels and EV charging points throughout. Recognised as a blueprint for Net Zero development within the region, Abbey Central has been highlighted in Rushcliffe Borough Council’s Low Carbon and Sustainable Design Planning Document and is setting the standard for the future of sustainable housebuilding in the Midlands.   To find out more about Peveril Homes, please visit https://peverilhomes.co.uk/
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