New bottling plant launched in Derby, creating 90 jobs
Lidl GB has launched a new bottling plant in Derby, creating around 90 jobs.
The facility will bottle water and produce a variety of soft drinks, with a production capacity of 380 million bottles per year.
The plant called MEG Derby Ltd is part of Schwarz Produktion, the umbrella brand of the Schwarz Group’s production companies. MEG is one of Germany’s leading mineral water and soft drink manufacturers, and this marks their first venture in Great Britain.
By localising production, the move will simplify transport logistics and significantly reduce the distance the products travel to stores, thereby improving Lidl’s carbon footprint and reducing costs.
Richard Bourns, chief commercial officer, Lidl GB, said: “This new venture with MEG Derby Ltd. marks a significant milestone in our commitment to improving efficiency, reducing our impact on the environment and providing our customers with great quality products at the lowest possible prices.
“Bringing production of this key product closer to home makes sense and aligns with Lidl GB’s vision of contributing positively to the local community and economy.”
Jörg Aldenkott, CEO at Schwarz Produktion, said: “The inauguration of MEG Derby Ltd. represents a pivotal moment for Schwarz Produktion. As our first venture in Great Britain, it underscores our commitment to sustainable growth, and will allow us to serve Lidl stores across Great Britain.
“As one of the leading soft drink and mineral water manufacturers in Germany we know investments like these pay off, and I can’t think of a better place to do it than in Great Britain.”
Work begins to make space for Leicester railway station transformation
An ambitious plan to transform Leicester’s historic railway station and restore its hidden Victorian façade has taken an important step forward.
The multi-million-pound project aims to revitalise and restore the landmark station building, improve facilities for passengers and create a more accessible and attractive gateway into the city.
Contractors have now been appointed to carry out the demolition of 48 London Road which stands immediately next to the railway station.
The work will be carried out by demolition specialists AR Demolition, who will take over the buildings from Monday (12 Feb). Internal works and surveys will be carried out over the coming weeks before work to carefully bring the building down gets underway in late spring.
Demolition of the property will create the space needed to relocate the railway station’s main entrance onto Station Street and create an attractive new open space that will link directly to the Granby Street super crossing and into the city centre.
It will also allow the original Station Street façade of the Grade II-listed station building to be revealed and restored to its Victorian glory.
Rail services to and from Leicester will be unaffected by the demolition works.
Pedestrian access to the railway station will also continue as normal during the demolition works, with the London Road entrance and rear entrance from the station car park both remaining open.
The railway station car park will also be open as normal.
However, traffic restrictions will be in place on Station Street to facilitate the works from Monday 12 February. This will mean that access to Station Street will be limited to essential vehicles only.
The ambitious railway station redevelopment project is led by Leicester City Council in partnership with East Midlands Railway (EMR) and Network Rail. The project is backed by £17.6million from the Government’s Levelling Up Fund which aims to invest in infrastructure that improves everyday life across the UK.
City Mayor Peter Soulsby said: “Leicester’s railway station is a landmark historic building but, as an important transport hub, it needs a radical overhaul to meet the needs of a modern city the size of Leicester.
“We have been working closely with our rail industry partners to develop and progress these ambitious plans which will see the station revamped and revitalised. It is a major and complex project that will make a huge difference to the city and it’s encouraging to see that work is now underway.
“The award of almost £18million of extra investment from the Government through the Levelling Up Fund is a tremendous endorsement of the importance of this project. It will help transform the area into a vibrant gateway and make a vital contribution to Leicester’s future growth and prosperity.”
Under the plans, Station Street will be permanently closed to traffic and replaced with an attractive new pedestrianised open space, with trees and landscaping, to create a direct link between the railway station’s new entrance and the city centre.
The new entrance will feature a ramp and steps leading directly to the main concourse and ticket hall. The ticket hall itself will be re-configured and opened up to provide more space for passengers. New skylights will be installed in place of the existing suspended ceiling to let more natural light into the hall.
Taxis will be relocated from inside the existing covered main entrance hall – or porte-cochère – to a new purpose-built looped taxi rank area off Fox Street, close to the new entrance. This will free up the glass-roofed porte-cochere to be revamped as an attractive new plaza for cafes, bars or retail.
A new secure cycle store will also be created close to the new entrance.
Will Rogers, Managing Director for East Midlands Railway, said: “We’re excited to work alongside Leicester City Council and Network Rail to significantly improve the facilities for our customers.
“The investment will see the iconic Leicester railway station restored back to its Victorian glory. The development will transform Leicester railway station, as the gateway to the city, by encouraging integration with the surrounding community and offering an improved customer experience to all station visitors.”
Gavin Crook, Principal Programme Sponsor for Network Rail’s East Midlands route, said: “This exciting project will transform Leicester station entrance, bringing better facilities and creating a fitting gateway to the city.
“We’ll continue to work closely with Leicester City Council and East Midlands Railway to deliver these ambitious, major improvements for passengers.”
Demolition work is expected to be complete by summer 2024. Construction works will follow shortly after.
It is estimated that Leicester railway station is currently used by around five million passengers each year. This is forecast to increase by around 60 per cent over the next 20 years.
Revenues leap at Journeo
Revenues have leaped at Journeo plc, the provider of information systems and technical services to transport operators and local authorities.
According to a trading update for the year to 31 December 2023, results are expected to be in-line with market expectations, with group revenues increasing by 118% to £46m, up from £21m in 2022.
Acquired businesses, Infotec and MultiQ, have performed well and contributed £21m in revenues during the year.
Adjusted profit before tax is anticipated to be in-line with market expectations.
Russ Singleton, Chief Executive of Journeo plc, which is headquartered in Ashby-de-la-Zouch, said: “I am very pleased with the progress we made in 2023, both organically and through two acquisitions.
“These developments are fuelling our strategy to broaden our customer base, extend our geographic reach, deepen our capabilities and provide us with access to thematically linked adjacent markets.
“We have strengthened our recurring revenue alongside our order book and pipeline, providing good forward earnings visibility and a solid base on which grow the business further.
“Together with significantly improved cash balances, we are investing in our people and technologies to develop innovative products and services that meet our customer requirements, as well as anticipating the future needs of the public transport sector.
“With a strong sense of momentum and an increasingly compelling customer offering, we look forward to further organic and acquisitive growth.”
Northamptonshire contractor appoints head of IT to drive digital transformation
Main contractor Kori Construction has appointed a head of IT to spearhead the business’s ongoing digital transformation.
Anthony Francis, 43, brings 24 years of digital experience to the East Midlands company, including stints in the legal and construction sectors.
In his new role, Anthony is aiming to significantly reduce the administrative burden within business via effective enterprise resource planning (ERP), as well as optimising cyber security to ensure all business and client data is safely stored.
His work will also enable Kori Construction to utilise project data more effectively to make better future decisions, and track the carbon emissions of both the business and its projects, helping to minimise its impact on the environment.
Anthony said he was looking to solve the key pain points his colleagues are facing to help free them up to spend more time delivering frontline services.
He said: “Digital transformation is primarily about increasing back office efficiency to support the frontline team. If we can help them to do their jobs as best they can, they can focus on providing an exceptional experience to clients.
“In this respect, data is king. Data enables us to understand our processes on a deeper level and bring this understanding to our work. It enables us to make better decisions going forward and ultimately, provide a better service to clients.”
He added optimising cyber security was another vital part of the digital transformation journey, as was looking at ways to integrate the latest technology into the business, particularly AI.
“AI represents a huge opportunity for construction and as the technology evolves, the possibilities will be almost endless,” he said.
“As part of Kori’s ongoing digital strategy I will be looking at ways to integrate this technology across the business, to help take us to the next level.”
Jordan Connachie, Managing Director of Kori Construction, welcomed Anthony to the team.
He said: “As a business, we have been going through a digital transformation journey over the past couple of years, particularly in relation to financial management.
“However, we reached a point where we needed to bring in specialist expertise to continue that journey.
“Anthony is hugely knowledgeable about all things digital and has been brought on board to ensure we provide the best working environment for our team, that we handle our own data and that of our clients in the most secure way possible, reduce our carbon emissions and integrate new technologies into the business.
“Over time, I believe his work will have a transformative impact on Kori Construction and the service we are able to provide to clients.”
Approval gained for Leicester light industrial scheme
Planners have granted consent for a new scheme in Leicester that will deliver c.30,400 sq ft of light industrial accommodation.Commercial developer, Brackley Property Developments (BPD), will redevelop a brownfield site off Blackbird Road near Leicester city centre, on behalf of Leicester City Council. The redevelopment of the Ian Marlow Centre, a former council depot, aims to meet local demand for commercial employment workspace by delivering 21 small units for start-ups and growing businesses. BPD has completed the clearance of vacant office, workshop and storage buildings on site, with construction of the new units set to begin this month. The developer won the remit from Leicester City Council to deliver the project following a competitive tendering process. The project is being supported by funding from the government’s Levelling Up Fund.Stephen Pedrick-Moyle, Managing Director of BPD, said: “We are very pleased to have gained planning consent to redevelop the vacant former Ian Marlow Centre. We have cleared the site in readiness for construction of much-needed small business units for local occupiers.“The scheme will contribute to the Council’s efforts to attract and retain high-tech industries in Leicester, with the potential to support new jobs and business growth.”
BDO Midlands advises on over £1.5 billion deal value in 2023
Accountancy and business advisory firm BDO LLP advised on 40 deals in the Midlands in 2023, with a combined value of £1.68 billion. More than a third of all BDO’s activity in the region (36%) involved private equity.
BDO’s most active sectors continue to reflect wider market trends, with TMT, support services and financial services leading the way, in terms of volume and value. Combined, they accounted for 55% of deals completed by the firm in the Midlands, making up 62% of the total value.
The industrials market also continues to perform well both locally and globally – driven by market dynamics and the sustainability agenda. Sales to overseas corporates was a strong feature in this market with standout deals including the sale of Syrinix to Badger Meter Inc – a listed, US-based provider of water flow and measurement solutions.
Roger Buckley, corporate finance partner at BDO, said: “At BDO, we speak to many buyers and investors with cash and appetite and, compared to the beginning of 2023, we are now seeing closer convergence of buyer and vendor price expectations.“Despite a stagnation at the upper end of the market, significant opportunities remain, particularly in the lower and mid-markets which have continued to transact at volume.
“There’s no doubt that world events will continue to cast a shadow and more economic and/or political shocks could well materialise. Plus, we have the UK and US elections and potential changes to capital gains tax to factor in in the months ahead.”
Standout deals in the region in 2023 included the acquisition of Hydraulic Authority I Limited by international, multi-brand franchisor, Franchise Brands plc; the sale of TLO Risk Services to Specialist Risk Group; and the investment by Perwyn in iamsold, a market leading proptech business.
Ben Dawson, M&A director at BDO, said: “With greater stability in the debt markets and the cost of capital on the way down, we foresee a rise in deal activity through 2024.
“There is no shortage of liquidity in the corporate and PE universe and there are plenty of owners and management teams looking for a liquidity event, with the gap in valuation expectations gradually closing.
“At BDO, we’re certainly enthused by the number of businesses that we’re speaking to that want to raise money or exit in the next 12 months, with the volume and quality of conversations much higher than it has been during the second half of 2023.”
Virtual reality teaching facility opens at the University of Nottingham
This year’s cohort of second year Product Design and Manufacture students at the University of Nottingham are the first in the country to benefit from a brand-new virtual reality (VR) classroom that revolutionises the teaching of VR software.
Based in the university’s Engineering Science and Learning Centre (ESLC), the classroom enables remote viewing and communication between lecturers and students in a way that’s never been done before. Containing 40, high image quality VR headsets, 35 of which are tethered overhead to individual high-power PCs with the remaining five consisting of more traditional desk-based systems with display screens, students can choose the way they want to learn and experience VR.
In addition to the in-situ technology, 90 wireless headsets are available to loan to students. These can be used in any location so that they can continue their studies outside the classroom. There is also staff and student access to several 3D scanners and 360 stereoscopic cameras.
Professor Joel Segal, Head of Mechanical Materials and Manufacturing Engineering (M3) in the Faculty of Engineering, said: “While many universities, including us, have existing VR labs, these are nowhere near the scale of our newly unveiled facilities, which will provide our students with access to cutting edge tools and technologies unlike anything else on offer across the globe.
“The room can also be used flexibly for other teaching purposes as, when not in use the headsets can be raised into the ceiling space.
“We have a desire to be at the forefront of technology in teaching and we’ve already been making strides in this area in recent years in our smaller VR labs. Now, however, we have the opportunity to take the lead in the UK and further build our reputation for producing engineers that are ready to shape the real world.”
Another aim of the facilities is to allow real time collaboration across international campuses, as Nottingham’s Ningbo campus has its own VR lab, so that students from across the world can work together in labs or in design-based exercises.
Professor Sam Kingman, Pro-Vice-Chancellor for the Faculty of Engineering, said: “The virtual reality classroom is an incredibly exciting addition to our teaching facilities as we continue to position ourselves at the forefront of VR teaching. We believe that great minds don’t think alike, which is why we want to provide our students with a truly unique experience.
“We’ll also be working to create custom environments and objects that are suitable for teaching a range of engineering and architecture subjects as we widen our remit in the coming years to allow students from other courses access to the VR classroom.”
New plan created to boost Nottingham’s economy
A new plan has been created to help boost Nottingham’s local economy over the next ten years.
Nottingham City Council have worked with partners across the city to create a draft Economic Plan for all private, public and third sector partners, residents, and stakeholders.
The ambitions of the plan include the creation of 20,000 new jobs, £4bn in regeneration investment, generating £1bn of additional Gross Value Added (GVA) and developing infrastructure and services for the people of Nottingham.
The vision is to deliver a “vibrant, sustainable, and investment friendly Nottingham that promotes inclusion, secures resilience and unlocks prosperity for [its] residents and businesses.”
The Nottingham Growth Board, which is a partnership of some of Nottingham’s key businesses, educational institutions, and public sector organisations, will have a role in overseeing the plan.
People can now have their say on the proposed plan in a public consultation, which runs until Friday 1 March 2024.
The idea behind the Economic Plan is to have:
- A shared vision for improving the economy of Nottingham
- A plan to help the city grow in a fair and sustainable way that benefits all citizens of Nottingham
- A framework of activity to help focus ambition and investment in the city
- A plan for all partners in the city to work towards to create sustainable economic growth
Diversity In2 Engineering returns to Derby this week
The Diversity In2 Engineering Apprenticeship and Jobs Fair returns to Derby’s Pride Park, on Wednesday, offering a range of engineering and manufacturing related apprenticeship and job opportunities.
There will be over 25 employers on the day, each will have an interactive stand allowing you to learn more about the company, about a career in engineering and help you understand the job and apprenticeship opportunities they have on offer.
Attending employers include Rolls Royce, The Royal Navy, JCB, Severn Trent, EON, East Midlands Railway, Expleo, Trent Barton, Loram, Motus Commercials and many more.
As well as employer stands, there will also be two workshops on offer to widen your understanding and keep you informed of opportunities. Workshops topics include Green and Future Engineering and Demystifying Apprenticeships. Severn Trent are also running and employability support area, to help you apply for jobs or Apprenticeships at the Fair and get you application and CV ready.
The event will help attendees understand opportunities available in engineering, construction and advance manufacturing and equip you with the skills and knowledge to ensure you are well-informed to succeed. Last year the event attracted over 600 attendees and we’re hoping this event will be bigger and better than before.
The event is being delivered by Derby Jobs (Derby City Councils recruitment support service) in partnership with D2N2 Careers Hub, SEGRO and Severn Trent.
Jade Pearson, New Talent Lead at Severn Trent, said: “We’re thrilled to be able to support such a fantastic event that will help support more people into employment, connecting people with local opportunities.
“As a major employer in Derby, we’re looking forward to sharing the current jobs we have available, as well as showcasing our varied apprenticeship opportunities, as we have over 100 apprenticeship opportunities available this year!
“We’re excited to be joining other fantastic employers on the day, coming together to inspire and support individuals looking for a career in engineering and showing them what’s available.”
Bosses urged to future proof their businesses by giving staff the right training
Businesses across Chesterfield have been told they must act today to futureproof their businesses and the town’s economy, by ensuring their staff are receiving the relevant training and skills.
The Chesterfield Employability and Skills Conference was hosted in partnership by Chesterfield Borough Council and Destination Chesterfield, introducing a new wave of support for firms in the area, signposting businesses to relevant schemes to help them upskill and reskill staff.
Michael Timmins, Chair of the Chesterfield Skills and Employment Partnership, said: “It was fantastic to see so many businesses in attendance at the Employability and Skills Conference. We know that firms across our area are concerned about the future of their workforces, so it is extremely important that we continue to highlight the support that is out there.
“I would urge businesses of all sizes to make the most of the assistance available. We must all work together to secure the future growth of Chesterfield and ensure that our workforce has the right skills and abilities to meet future challenges.”
Attendees at the event were given the chance to meet representatives from the following organisations:
- Chesterfield Borough Council, Skills Brokerage Service
- Chesterfield College
- Derbyshire BAME Forum
- Direct Education Business Partnership
- University of Derby
- D2N2 Careers Hub/ D2N2 LEP
- Derbyshire County Council/ National Careers Service
- North East Derbyshire District Council
- Department for Work and Pensions
- Auto Windscreens, owned by Markerstudy Group
- East Midlands Railway
