Nottingham hosiery business acquired by supply chain innovator

Supply chain innovator Li & Fung has made its first acquisition in over a decade, acquiring Orrsum, a Nottingham-based hosiery, underwear, and loungewear business.

Founded in 1998, Orrsum delivers over 50 million pairs of socks annually to more than 5,000 retail doors worldwide. “This acquisition marks a significant step in accelerating our growth strategy,” said Destan Bezmen, president of LF Europe. “By combining Orrsum’s category leadership and product development capabilities with Li & Fung’s digital infrastructure and global reach, we are scaling high-demand categories, broadening our customer offering, and driving faster, more flexible execution across markets.” “Joining the Li & Fung family is a milestone for Orrsum,” said William Orr, CEO of Orrsum. “With access to their global platform and advanced technology, we can expand our footprint, enhance service levels, and unlock new growth opportunities for our customers and partners.” Orrsum will operate as part of LF Europe and continue to be led by William Orr. The business will leverage Li & Fung’s AI-enabled digital infrastructure and sourcing network across 40 economies to strengthen supply chain agility, improve speed-to-market, and expand into new geographies and channels.

Jobs secured as Chesterfield’s CBE+ sold

Chesterfield-based CBE+, specialists in nickel plating, CNC machining, surface treatment and assembly services for the aerospace, defence, energy and automotive industries, has been sold after falling into administration. Over the past few years, market conditions have been challenging which has impacted the company’s profitability. As a result of these mounting pressures, the directors sought to undertake an exploration of their refinance, investment and sale options. However, when it became clear that a solvent solution could not be found, they took the decision to seek the appointment of administrators. Immediately following the appointment of Tim Bateson and Howard Smith from Interpath as joint administrators on 21 July 2025, the business and assets of the firm were sold to two companies that are funded by Baaj Capital LLP. All 87 members of staff have transferred to the purchaser as part of the transaction. Tim Bateson, director at Interpath and joint administrator, said: “These have been testing times for many businesses across the manufacturing sector as a result of high cost inflation and fragile business confidence. We are pleased to have secured this transaction which safeguards the future of CBE Plus Limited and which, importantly, safeguards the jobs of all employees.” The joint administrators were assisted by legal advisors at HCR Law led by Stuart Taylor.

Van Elle unveils strategic partnership with VolkerWessels UK

Van Elle, the Nottinghamshire ground engineering contractor, has unveiled a strategic partnership with VolkerWessels UK, a multidisciplinary contractor delivering engineering and construction solutions across the rail, highways, aviation, ports, defence, energy, water, and environment sectors.

The partnership includes the acquisition of the concrete piling assets of VolkerGround Engineering. 

Van Elle and the businesses within VolkerWessels UK will work together closely, with the capacity and technical expertise to deliver solutions across major investment programmes in the water, energy, defence, industrial and rail sectors.

Van Elle chief executive, Mark Cutler said: “We have a long trading relationship with VolkerWessels UK and this agreement brings us closer together as strategic partners, providing mutual benefits to both parties.”

Strategy approved to unlock investment, innovation, and inclusive growth in the East Midlands

The East Midlands Investment Zone Strategy and Investment Plan has been approved by the East Midlands Combined County Authority (EMCCA) Board. The strategy for the £160m, ten-year programme will unlock inclusive growth and innovation in priority sectors of advanced manufacturing and clean energy industries. The key activities in the strategy include developing the skills, innovation, businesses, and infrastructure to build on local strengths, championing the East Midlands Investment Zone for global investment for nuclear, vehicle propulsion, and advanced construction industries, and providing business support services for SMEs. It also includes supporting the planning, coordination, and delivery of skills opportunities to open up pathways to high-quality jobs, creating spaces for organisations to come together to collaborate on new technologies, and accelerating delivery across the designated East Midlands Investment Zone sites. The East Midlands Investment Zone is set to bring at least £383 million of investment into the region and 4,000 high-quality jobs. Three designated strategic sites – Infinity Park in Derby, Explore Park in Worksop, and Hartington Staveley in Chesterfield – serve as focal areas for delivery and benefit from targeted tax and business rate retention incentives. However, the programme will offer a range of interventions and opportunities throughout the region. Mayor of the East Midlands, Claire Ward, said: “The East Midlands Investment Zone represents a powerful statement of intent: that the East Midlands is ready to lead Britain’s journey into a cleaner, smarter industrial future. By nurturing local talent, championing global investment, and accelerating progress across our priority sectors, we are building a region that can thrive. “Our vision for the East Midlands Investment Zone is rooted in inclusive growth. As Mayor, I’m ensuring that everyone, from school leavers to seasoned professionals and people who are not currently in work, can share in the success of a region that’s set to lead the world in clean energy industries and advanced manufacturing.”

Stagecoach leads UK transport sector in climate engagement

Stagecoach has set a new standard in climate action within the transport sector. It is the only UK and European operator to achieve the prestigious ‘A’ grade on the CDP Supplier Engagement Assessment (SEA) for 2024, marking a significant milestone in the company’s sustainability journey. The achievement highlights Stagecoach’s leadership in addressing climate change through comprehensive supply chain engagement and environmental strategy.

The CDP A-List recognition was granted for the company’s robust governance practices, commitment to emissions reductions, transparent Scope 3 emissions reporting, and active engagement with its suppliers on climate issues. Stagecoach’s approach is in line with global climate goals, positioning the company as a climate leader in the road transport industry. It remains one of only two companies worldwide to receive this accolade in the sector.

Additionally, Stagecoach secured an ‘A-‘ climate disclosure rating, placing it in the top 1% of companies globally. The company also maintained a ‘B’ rating in water-related disclosures, underlining its efforts to manage water risks and safeguard natural resources across its operations.

Stagecoach’s continued dedication to sustainability is setting a high bar for climate action in the transport sector.

Vulcan Creatives opens applications for third business incubation cohort

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Vulcan Creatives has launched its third cohort of the Vulcan Works business incubation programme, inviting aspiring entrepreneurs from Northamptonshire to apply. The six-month programme, designed to support individuals in developing business plans and refining their entrepreneurial skills, is open to applicants aged 18 or over who are committed to dedicating at least two days a week to business coaching and support.

Since its inception in 2024, the programme has successfully helped 20 entrepreneurs turn their business ideas into fully operational businesses. The third cohort will select 10 new participants, who will benefit from tailored mentorship, including one-on-one sessions with business growth experts, access to free coworking spaces, and opportunities to attend masterclasses and networking events.

Graduates of the programme will also gain discounted access to office, coworking, or workshop spaces at Vulcan Works for the following six months. This initiative aims to help entrepreneurs sustain the momentum gained during the programme and continue their business growth.

Applications are open until 12th September, with the third cohort set to begin in October.

Second content creator becomes co-owner in Leicester mobile gaming accessories firm

PuK Gaming, a precision-engineered mobile gaming accessories firm, has welcomed influential gaming content creator Alastair “Ali-A” Aiken as a co-owner and strategic partner. It marks a major milestone in PuK’s mission to transform the mobile gaming landscape.

Ali-A is followed by over 20 million fans worldwide, but is bringing more than just his name to the table, investing time, expertise, and capital into PuK.

As co-owner, Ali-A will play an active role in product development, marketing strategy, and creative campaigns. He joins fellow creator iFerg, who came aboard as a co-owner and strategic investor in June.

“Their modular accessories are next-level, and I’m eager to collaborate on products that give players a real edge,” said Ali-A. “This partnership is about shaping the future of mobile gaming, and I’m all in.”

Simon Burgess, PuK Gaming co-founder and creator of the SCUF® controller, said: “Ali-A joining our growing team of mobile gaming innovators is exciting news for our team. His long-term experience within the gaming sphere is exactly what we need to push PuK to the next level and beyond.”

Egg supplier acquires Leicestershire firm

Egg and poultry supplier Noble Foods has acquired Leicestershire firm Just Egg from Pankaj Pancholi and his family. Over the past 20 years, Just Egg has become a valued name in the egg industry, manufacturing hard-boiled eggs, poached eggs and egg mayonnaise. This acquisition supports Noble Foods’ long-term strategy to grow and diversify. Pankaj Pancholi, founder of Just Egg, said: “This business has been my life’s work, and I’m incredibly proud of what our team has achieved. As I step back, I do so with confidence knowing Just Egg is joining Noble Foods – a company that shares our values and passion for quality. I know the business is in capable hands for the future.” Duncan Everett, CEO, Noble Foods, said: “We feel honoured to be taking forward the Just Egg legacy. The business Pankaj and his team have built is one we deeply respect, and we’re committed to preserving the quality, service and care their customers value so highly.”

Revenue rises at Yü Group

Revenue is up at Yü Group, the independent supplier of gas and electricity, meter asset owner, and installer of smart meters to the UK SME & corporate sector.

In a trading update for the six months ended 30 June 2025, the Nottingham business highlighted continued strong organic growth in line with management expectations. The firm delivered first half revenue of approximately £341m, up 9% on the same period of the prior year and in line with group strategy of gaining market share.

Average monthly bookings, however, at £41.4m, were down 12%, reflecting the wholesale commodity market normalising.

Yü Group further noted strong meter point growth for the fifth consecutive period. The company delivered a 48% increase in meter points versus the prior year, to close at 107,000. The group added that it continues to grow volumetric consumption and leverages off the implementation of the five-year commodity hedging agreement with Shell Energy enabling continued scaling.

Yü Smart, meanwhile, delivered value and volume, with meters owned in the period up 179% on the same period in 2024, providing 200% increase in forward annualised, indexed annuity income.

Bobby Kalar, CEO, said: “I’m pleased with our continued delivery for the first 6 months providing confidence management are in-line with expectations for the year. Our forward contract book remains strong and continues to grow despite the recent drop in wholesale energy prices.

“While I’m personally disappointed investor appetite remains restrictive, prolonged cash outflows from the UK continue to severely hinder our valuation. I would like to thank all my team for their continued support and effort. We will remain focussed on our growth strategy to deliver continued shareholder value and returns.”

New University of Nottingham partnership to enhance food and drink industry training and development

Training and development for the food and drink sector will be enhanced with a new partnership that will bring together industry and academic expertise. The University of Nottingham is partnering with Briggs of Burton to launch a new training academy that will provide theoretical and practical training to its staff and valuable hands-on experience for students. The University’s Faculty of Engineering will also be collaborating with Briggs of Burton, exploring world-leading research and future innovation together. The International Centre for Brewing Science is a centre of excellence for brewing education and research at the University of Nottingham and is where Briggs of Burton designed and built a ‘Research Pilot Brewery’ for the University that has been operating successfully for 14 years. The centre will now be expanded to offer theoretical and practical training to equip Briggs’ teams with the expert knowledge needed to deliver projects for customers, and generate a new talent pipeline of mechanical, electrical/control, chemical/process, and industrial automation/software engineers. The Research Pilot Brewery is a production operational environment and a working factory that features a high level of instrumentation and control and automation. Using this as a training facility will allow the Briggs team and students to directly explore and enhance their skills across topics such as hygienic process design, industrial process control, and health and safety operations. Experts from the University of Nottingham and Briggs of Burton will join forces to deliver a blend of theory and practical training on site. The training will include: practical hands-on brewing experience days, process engineering deep-dives, and health and safety training workshops. The partnership will also provide opportunities for wider industry engagement and collaboration as the Research Pilot Brewery will be used as a hub for manufacturers, suppliers and customers to explore and learn more about the hygienic process. Professor Sam Kingman, provost and deputy vice chancellor at the University of Nottingham, said: “Our new partnership with Briggs of Burton further strengthens our position as a leading centre for excellence in brewing research. “This is an exciting new partnership which showcases how industry and the university can work closely together. It allows us to support Brigg’s objectives to be a sector-leader, creates new research projects and new employment pathways for our students” Robert Buxton, CEO of Briggs of Burton, said: “The Research Pilot Brewery at the University still surprises people with respect to its design, layout, finish, and sophisticated instrumentation/control. “Supporting the learning and development of our current and future workforce is a major focus for our business and providing further hands-on access to this excellent facility and worldclass teaching from the team at the University will provide opportunities to members of our own team and potential future engineers.” Jo Simpson, chief revenue officer at the University of Nottingham, said: “This new partnership brings another global-leading organisation onto our campus to benefit from our unique ecosystem. It is a relationship that is driven by excellence. Combining the very best of our facilities and technical staff with a truly sector-leading company. “We are proud to support the ambitions of Briggs to develop their outstanding workforce alongside creating important new opportunities for our students to interact directly with industry. This is just the starting point of what is going to be a very exciting partnership.”