Leicester Arena gets new name in recognition of support from charitable trust

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Leicester Arena gets new name in recognition of support from charitable trust

The largest indoor arena in Leicester will now be known as the Mattioli Arena.

It comes after the Ian & Clare Mattioli Charitable Trust accepted an offer of naming rights to Leicester Arena.

The venue – previously the Morningside Arena – is currently being rebranded.

The Trust has donated funds to the Leicester Riders Foundation, the charity which develops basketball and other sport participation for people of all ages across Leicester and Leicestershire.

The generosity of the Mattioli family has resulted in the Trust being offered naming rights, in recognition of their continued support.

Recent donations from the Trust are in addition to the £500,000 donation made to help fund the Arena’s extension in 2022.

The Arena team will work with the family to create a lasting legacy gifted to communities in Leicester and Leicestershire.

The Trust – established by the Mattioli family in 2016 – works to help enhance the lives and opportunities of local people.

In particular it works with communities and socio-economic groups which are often sidelined and which struggle to access opportunities for advancement, personal growth, and to fully participate in society.

Ian Mattioli MBE, founder of the Trust and CEO of Mattioli Woods PLC, said: “We are delighted to continue our support of the Arena, and are proud to accept the naming rights.

“The Mattioli Arena delivers high-quality and high-class events, while at the same time focussing on its community commitments and increasing the profile of the city.

“Leicester has always looked after our family in the very safest of environments and that is why we are delighted to be part of creating a legacy for the diverse communities we support in the City of Leicester and beyond.

“To also be able to do this through sport and a venue that has the potential to impact so many people is something we will continue to take great pride in, and we hope it will be used by many, many people over coming years.”

Kevin Routledge, Chairman of Leicester Riders, Trustee of Leicester Riders Foundation, and a Director of the Arena, said: “Once again, Ian and Clare Mattioli Charitable Trust has shown its commitment to the city and the work of our Foundation, and the Mattioli Arena, and we are hugely appreciative of that.

“The work of the Riders Foundation, and the demands on the Arena, continue to grow and we are committed to further enhancements to our facilities.

“We are hugely appreciative to the Mattioli family’s generous support, which will enable us to deliver an arena, community services, and events that will continue to make the city proud.”

The 3,000-capacity Mattioli Arena stages an increasingly wide range of national and international sports and entertainment events.

It also provides a wide range of community sports opportunities through the Riders’ extensive underage basketball programmes through the Leicester Riders Foundation.

The venue also provides opportunities for Leicester College students, wheelchair basketball users, and other community sport users – making it the largest of its type in the UK.

Last year’s extension to the Arena is already bringing significant additional revenue to the city. It consists of a standalone, 1,200-metre squared, two-court sports hall, with a new entrance to the arena also completed at the top of Memory Lane.

It also has the largest solar array on any individual building in the city, generating 246 kW(p) of solar power and helping the Arena towards becoming a Net Zero business.

SMEs to focus on workforce stability in 2024 amid ongoing economic pressures says barometer

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SMEs to focus on workforce stability in 2024 amid ongoing economic pressures says barometer

Workforce stability is the main focus for SMEs in 2024, despite ongoing economic pressures and an uncertain climate, according to the latest barometer from people experts HR Solutions.

The results of the fourth annual SME Business Survey from the HR specialists were revealed at Your Business Expo at Sywell Aerodrome.

More than half of respondents (54%) said their biggest business issue this year is recession and cost of living, with 47% citing recruitment as a problem and 39% worried about bringing in new business.

Yet less than a quarter of those surveyed plan to make any redundancies, instead putting an emphasis on efficient resource management.

And with half troubled by maintaining profitability and 56% concerned about controlling costs, there is little surprise that 53% plan to focus on cost reduction in order to maintain workforce stability and make better use of resources.

Recruitment and employee retention were also revealed to be pressing issues, driven by competitive job markets and the expansion of the talent pool due to remote working. A worried 45% of SMEs are concerned about the need for wage adjustments in line with inflation, 52% believe employee retention is a key issue and 38% are concerned about talent attraction.

In response, SMEs are rightly prioritising employee engagement and HR Solutions recommends that business owners focus on creating an attractive workplace culture that values diversity, encourages open communication, and promotes work-life balance.

A strong company culture not only supports employee retention but also makes the organisation more attractive to potential employees.

The fieldwork for the survey took place at the end of 2023 and the company surveyed businesses that fall into the SME bracket across multiple industries, including manufacturing, aerospace and defence, agriculture, construction and engineering, education, electronics, healthcare, retail, professional services, hospitality, finance, energy, insurance, property, and pharmaceuticals.

CEO Greg Guilford said: “With our survey now in its fourth year, we can see a clear shift in the mindset of SMEs. Financial performance and securing new business will naturally remain at the forefront of owner directors’ minds, but as we know with the cost-of-living crisis and fears of a recession, finances continue to be a top priority.

“We use the results of our survey to provide the best possible specific support, advice and resources for SME business owners to use to overcome these challenges. It is important that SMEs look inwards, and ensure they have the right staff in place. They must also review internal processes to streamline and reduce inefficiencies.

“We would also implore that business owners look at the resources and seminars we have on offer for all the support they need in tackling these issues. Strategic planning and innovative thinking is the most effective way to increasing turnover this year.”

Continued expansion for pet treats manufacturer

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Continued expansion for pet treats manufacturer
Commercial property agents and consultants, Salloway, have let a 7,750 sq ft industrial unit to Pet Treats Wholesale Ltd. Unit 6, Crown Industrial Estate is located at Anglesey Rd, Burton upon Trent, and provides a larger packing and fulfilment provision for Pet Treats’ continued business growth. Business founder and owner, Dominic Jolivet said: “Pet Treats has its roots firmly established in Burton upon Trent. From humble beginnings using just a single oven, to becoming the largest manufacturer of gourmet sausages for dogs in the UK, Pet Treats Wholesale Ltd. has been supplying treats to dogs (and their owners) since 2011. “We manufacture our range of sausages, sticks, slices, and pate, as well as many of our dried natural products, using British meat, right here in our factory in Staffordshire. For everything else, we only work with trusted UK and EU suppliers, to ensure your pets are getting the very best natural treats. “We sell to members of the public directly from our website and store, as well as to trade and wholesale customers, including large companies with multiple stores nationwide.” Director, Louis Jolivet added: “Due to our continued growth, we needed to find a larger unit to house our packing and fulfilment part of the business. Personal thanks to Simon – local Salloway agent, for alerting me to this unit as it was coming to market and for the speed in which lease matters were progressed. From initially viewing the unit to taking occupation, the whole process took just 6 weeks!” Salloway commercial agency surveyor, Simon Walker said: “Timing was crucial for this lease deal to happen, and all parties are extremely happy that letting terms were agreed and matters concluded very swiftly. “It is always a joy to witness continued success and growth with any local business in the area and I am delighted that Unit 6 Crown Industrial Estate was a very suitable and timely property solution to be able to provide to Pet Treats.”

Study highlights staffing challenges faced by rural Peak District businesses

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Study highlights staffing challenges faced by rural Peak District businesses
Rural businesses in the Derbyshire Peak District are facing significant challenges in recruiting and retaining staff due to a combination of global and national influences, and place-specific factors, according to a new study led by researchers at the University of Derby. Undertaken with employers and employees in the Derbyshire Peak District, the study has led to the researchers making a number of key recommendations for changes to policy that need to take place to support rural businesses in the region and encourage people to work in the area. The study, Exploring Identity, Place and Worker Attraction and Retention in Rural Businesses, was funded by the National Innovation Centre for Rural Enterprise (NICRE). It was led by Carley Foster, Professor of Services Marketing and Head of the Centre for Business Improvement at the University of Derby, working with Dr Susan Kirk, Reader in International Human Resource Management at Newcastle University Business School. Professor Foster explained: “The Peak District has so much to offer in the way of ‘natural capital’ – it’s a beautiful place to live and work, which is something that isn’t exploited enough. We think there is lots more to do to promote the Peak District as a place to work as a way of encouraging people to move to the region to work and enjoy these lovely surroundings.” Despite being located in the middle of England, surrounded by large cities like Derby, Sheffield and Manchester, the region’s businesses face a number of challenges in recruiting and retaining skilled staff. These include:
  • The impacts of Covid and Brexit, with people opting for hybrid or work-at-home arrangements, and reduced availability of workers from Europe
  • Lack of skills in certain sectors, including hospitality, the visitor economy and in specialist roles
  • Demographic challenges, with young people tending to move out of the area, reducing the size of the local labour market
  • Cost and availability of public transport, and the cost of housing in areas where there is a lot of second home ownership
Dr Kirk said: “Some employers are implementing initiatives to mitigate the challenges. For example, they adapt their employment packages to appeal to different people at different life stages and this is something we would encourage. But there’s much more that needs to be done to address the challenges, at a regional and national level.” The researchers’ recommendations include:
  • Positive promotion of the Derbyshire Peak District as a place to work
  • Emphasis on the value of different occupations in sectors like hospitality, and the importance of apprenticeships for small businesses in addressing skills gaps and retaining younger workers
  • Employers and business support organisations working together to creatively tackle some of the shared issues, such as transport shortages
  • Lobbying for improved public transport and more affordable housing
The team’s research has been supported by both the Peak District Partnership and Business Peak District. Dr Peter Dewhurst, who chairs both organisations, said: “This research investigation highlights some significant challenges that Business Peak District is working with others to address. In doing so we are looking to ensure that businesses across the Peak District are no longer at a competitive disadvantage to their urban counterparts.” One early positive outcome has seen the research being used in a successful £15 million Levelling Up ‘Ashbourne Reborn’ bid, led by Derbyshire Dales District Council. This two-year development project will transform Ashbourne town centre.

Derbyshire narrowboat manufacturer unlocks growth

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Derbyshire narrowboat manufacturer unlocks growth

An Ashbourne-based narrowboat builder is expanding into a new premises thanks to financial support from HSBC UK.

Oakums Narrowboats will use a £881,000 funding package to purchase a new 14,000 sq ft property in Carsington Water. The additional space will increase the business’s capacity by 350 per cent, expanding its manufacturing capability and enabling the business to build seven boats at once, compared to two currently. The funding has also streamlined operations by facilitating the import of key boat parts from overseas.

The newly acquired premises will support Oakums to fulfil its ever-growing order book and reduce its waiting list. With half of the business’s customers based overseas, the funding will also facilitate further international growth for the business.

The funding package allows the business to continue its fast revenue growth, which has doubled year-on-year since the business was founded in 2019. Oakums has already reached £1.4 million of revenue in the past three months and is now anticipating annual revenue to increase to £6 million as a direct result of the expansion.

Liam Hainsworth, director at Oakums Narrowboats, said: “This funding marks a significant milestone and empowers us to embark on a new era of expansion and innovation within our industry.

“This is a strategic leap forward for us and paints a positive outlook for our future operations. Oakums has flourished from a personal hobby to a dynamic workforce of 14 skilled builders, and the banking team’s support has been instrumental in achieving this transformative growth.”

Mark Greasley, relationship manager at HSBC UK, added: “We’re dedicated to ensuring small businesses and enterprises can thrive both domestically and globally. Oakums has created a business model that we’re excited to get behind, and we couldn’t be more pleased to be able to support the company as it continues to grow.”

Founded by former architect Liam Hainsworth, Oakums Narrowboats manufactures luxury narrowboats for private sale. The business specialises in modern ‘Rosie and Jim’ style boats, and its core customer base includes holiday homes for international customers and houseboats for UK-based customers.

Trio of lettings secured at Leicestershire business park

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Trio of lettings secured at Leicestershire business park
Three Leicestershire businesses have secured new industrial premises at Armston Farm, Cosby after property consultancy, Wells McFarlane negotiated a trio of lettings. Fox County Ltd, Fuses Electrical and Magna Manufacturing will all now be based at the South Leicestershire business park as they look to facilitate expansion. “Our business provides servicing and repair for leisure vehicles, specifically motorhomes and caravans but also horse boxes and trailers,” explains Fox County’s Managing Director, Jak Yeates. “Our work is predominantly workshop appointments or home visits so we needed a premises that was well connected and easily accessible. “Armston Farm is within easy reach of many of the surrounding villages as well as the M1, M69 and A5. The move means we’re able to work indoors, so we can now work all year round and on multiple vehicles at the same time. This has also led us to hire another service technician and offer parts supply via a small shop so it’s been hugely positive.” Bespoke joinery firm, Magna Manufacturing is hoping for similar growth at Unit A2, a 1,263 sq ft warehouse. Director Paul Leaver says: “We’d previously shared an old factory in Blaby with another company but when they decided not to renew the lease, we started to explore alternative options. “The unit at Armston Farm offered so much potential. It means we can have an open workshop and increase our team, but also allows us to build a mezzanine floor for a small office from where we can run our accounts and project management. Wells McFarlane were absolutely spot on to work with, we’re grateful for their support.” Wells McFarlane’s commercial asset manager, Tina Flynn negotiated all three lettings. She concludes: “It’s always pleasing to help tenants find their ideal premises, especially when it’s to support business growth and future success but securing a hat trick of new neighbours like this is definitely unusual! “Rural business parks like Armston Farm remain popular as business owners aspire to move to more strategic and sustainable locations. We anticipate this level of demand to continue across the Midlands so encourage interested tenants or landlords with similar properties to get in touch.”

Health and safety consultancy appoints new operations manager

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Health and safety consultancy appoints new operations manager
Independent health and safety consultancy, Acorn Safety Services has appointed Zeynep Guzelkasap as the company’s new operations manager. Health and safety expert, Zeynep, joined the company as business manager in January 2023 having started her career in the asbestos industry 13 years ago. Since joining Acorn Safety Services, Zeynep has been instrumental in the continued growth of the company, establishing herself as a high-skilled professional with a wealth of experience in construction management. She said: “I’m delighted to be taking on this new role at Acorn Safety Services, particularly at such an exciting time for the business. “Acorn Safety Services continues to grow. We recently moved into new, much larger offices, and we are looking to add to the wide range of services we offer to our clients, particularly when it comes to important areas such as legionella and fire safety. “Personally, as a mum of two young children and a woman in an industry which has been traditionally very male-dominated, I am thrilled to have been given the opportunity to take on this senior role as well as the support I need to grow my career.”

Ford & Stanley secures two-year Gemini Rail partnership

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Ford & Stanley secures two-year Gemini Rail partnership
Derby talent services specialist, Ford & Stanley Group has been awarded the exclusive recruitment partnership for Gemini Rail Services, one of the UK’s leading rolling stock maintenance and overhaul businesses. The recruitment provision and partnership will utilise all three recruitment businesses within the Ford & Stanley Group – Ford & Stanley TalentWise, Ford & Stanley Recruitment and Ford & Stanley Executive Search. The two-year deal will see Ford & Stanley provide white-collar and executive search talent solutions, underpinning the rail firm’s ambition and strategy in an exciting few years ahead. Director Dan Taylor, alongside Head of Sales Jon Levers of Ford & Stanley, who worked closely with Gemini Rail Services stakeholders on the designing of a partnership bespoke to specific business needs, said: “We could not be more excited to start 2024 with confirmation of this new partnership. “With less money being invested in the building of new trains, it is expected there will be an increase in demand for modification and fleet improvement. With this upturn in the overhaul market, there has never been a more opportunistic time for those both in rail seeking an exciting career move and those from transferable industries to consider a career within UK rail industry. “We’re thrilled to be working with such an established and well-respected business as Gemini Rail which draws on its rich rail heritage and deep-rooted culture of innovation spanning over a century. We look forward to help supporting Gemini Rail Services in becoming an employer of choice in the UK Rail industry.” Gemma Smithson, Head of HR at Gemini Rail Services, said: “We are delighted to cement our existing relationship with Ford & Stanley – it is a logistical step in the longstanding relationship that exists between our two businesses.” Sean Forster, recently appointed COO of Gemini Rail Services, added: “We have an exciting few years ahead which comes with a pressing need to secure the best talent from a ‘noisy and competitive’ candidate market. “Ford & Stanley offered a low maintenance, highly effective cost down / quality up initiative which made it an easy decision for us to entrust our white-collar business needs, in addition to a continuation of playing a pivotal role in building our executive leadership team.”

Health testing company moves onto the high street

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Health testing company moves onto the high street

The owners of an East Midlands-based health testing company is set to offer a face-to-face advice service on the high street after purchasing its first retail outlet.

Healthy Stuff Online Ltd, based in Castle Donington, operates a worldwide testing service for people looking for insights on their health, including food allergies and intolerances.

It has now purchased a health food shop in Knaresborough, near Harrogate, which has been serving customers for more than 30 years.

Staff at the branch, who have all been retained, will now receive training to help customers take the range of Healthy Stuff tests in an on-site consulting room, which will be created later this year.

And its array of self-administered tests will be available to buy in store to complement the existing range of health supplements and well-being products which are already available to purchase.

While the historic building has undergone a refurbishment programme it still sells its complete range of health and wellbeing products, as well as its popular pick and mix loose tea range.

Healthy Stuff chairman Jason Wootton said: “We are absolutely delighted to be working with the team at Natural Choice which has been supporting the people of Knaresborough with their health and wellbeing for decades.

“We intend to support the company’s existing offering completely, but believe we can enhance the customer experience through our testing so they can gain valuable insights into which products will help them improve their health.

“Our tests, which are clinically proven and very similar to those used by medical professionals, are in heavy demand, but we want to go one better and help the NHS by inviting people into our new store to take a test as part of a wrap-around service involving face-to-face consultation and access to health and well-being products.

“We are thoroughly enjoying working alongside the staff at the store and we are learning more every day about this exciting market, which will be used to expand the group and develop further offerings to our current clients and partners.”

It is the first time Healthy Stuff has entered the high street, but it has plans to open several stores throughout the UK during 2024.

The company is making the move into bricks and mortar after doubling in size over the last year, thanks to a huge increase in demand for its hair and finger-prick blood sample tests from people taking investigations into their medical symptoms into their own hands.

The change in behaviour has been prompted by delays in seeing their GPs and people’s awareness of the ease and convenience of home testing following the widespread use of lateral flow tests during COVID.

Rushton Hickman sees success on the rink

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Rushton Hickman sees success on the rink
Commercial property agents Rushton Hickman Ltd have successfully let and won the management of a unit on the modern Rink Drive development on the edge of Swadlincote town centre. The property comprises a modern end-terraced industrial unit of steel portal frame construction. The ground floor and upper floor provides 2,288 sq ft of industrial and office space, which has been transformed by the new tenant, My Life Interiors; they specialise in the designing and installation of kitchens and bathrooms in the Swadlincote, Burton-upon-Trent and surrounding areas. Rushton Hickman Ltd’s client, Mr Bolton said: “After managing my rental investment myself, I decided to talk to professionals. “At the first meeting with Graham Bancroft, I immediately felt confident and comfortable as he outlined a strategy for the rental of the property. It was obvious to me that Graham totally understood the market. “I was then introduced to Jade Martin, who would be responsible for the management of the property – Jade exceeded all my expectations.” Associate Director, Jade Martin concluded: “We are pleased to have been able to find the perfect premises for the Swadlincote based business to enable them to fulfil their business needs, whilst also agreeing terms quickly for our client to avoid a vacant period. “Demand is still strong in this sector and we would recommend anyone looking to sell or let their premises contacts us, as we would be delighted to discuss potential options.”
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