Biotech entrepreneur secures £750k for new venture

Tess Egginton
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Biotech entrepreneur secures £750k for new venture
The founder of a biotechnology company has secured backing for a new venture that aims to transform laboratory data management. Ryan Cawood, who founded OXGENE, has raised £750,000 from the Midlands Engine Investment Fund II, through fund manager Mercia Ventures, for his latest business, Lab Thread. OXGENE, founded in 2011 and also backed by Mercia, became one of the UK’s fastest growing companies and won the Queen’s Award for Enterprise before its sale to WuXi Advanced Therapies for $135m in 2021. Ryan has joined forces with his former colleague Deyan Sultov to launch Lab Thread. Based in Silverstone, it aims to fill a gap in the market for cost-effective software that can manage complex research data across both office and laboratory environments. The funding will enable them to finalise development and commercialise the platform. Current laboratory software is often too costly for smaller organisations, or provides only a partial solution that does not integrate with other systems. Therefore scientists tend to record research results in a range of different ways including paper notebooks, slides and spreadsheets, which makes it difficult to share data and hinders workflow. Lab Thread aims to resolve these issues by providing a user-friendly, all-in-one solution. The platform will combine advanced DNA visualisation tools, sample inventory, project management and in-lab experiment recording capabilities, all pre-populated for everyday laboratory tasks. Ryan Cawood, founder and CEO of Lab Thread, said: “Research is highly complex and regularly takes unexpected turns but current software platforms often fail to allow this level of flexibility. As a result, researchers often resort to using paper or lose important data. Lab Thread aims to make their jobs easier by providing interfaces for both the office and lab, stripping out the paperwork and streamlining processes along the way. “I worked with Mercia for over a decade while building OXGENE and the partnership was very successful for both sides, so the first thing I did when starting this new venture was to reach out to Mercia again. The funding will enable us to aggressively pursue our development plans and transform laboratory data management.” The global market for laboratory software is estimated at between £4.4bn and £5bn and is projected to grow by 8-10% annually over the next five years. Howard Mitchell of Mercia Ventures said: “Ryan and Deyan are passionate about solving the challenges of information management in laboratories as they know how critical it is for successful research. Through their combined experience, they are ideally placed to develop a solution. We believe that Lab Thread will tap into growing demand for laboratory software and could have a significant impact on the success of the life sciences sector.” Ross McGrath and Peter Mayhew from Shakespeare Martineau provided legal advice to Mercia on the deal.

New funding for Nottingham’s creative and digital sector

April Lara
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New funding for Nottingham’s creative and digital sector

Nottingham and Nottinghamshire’s creative and digital businesses are set to receive a £425,000 boost to drive innovation and growth. This government investment will extend support for local businesses through the Create Growth N2 (CGN2) initiative, which will run through 2025/26.

CGN2 helps businesses access expert guidance, investment readiness tools, and tailored programmes focused on growth and innovation. The programme offers fully funded workshops and immersive technology support, helping businesses refine their strategies and expand their capabilities. A key part of the initiative is a continuously updated platform featuring local business events and opportunities.

Following a successful year, in which 89 businesses received support and £649,000 in additional funding was secured, CGN2 is set to build on its momentum. The funding continues to demonstrate the importance of the creative and digital sectors to the region’s economic future. CGN2 is delivered in partnership with key institutions, including the University of Nottingham, Nottingham Trent University, and Innovate UK, and is backed by local councils and enterprise solutions.

This funding represents a significant step in strengthening the region’s growing creative and digital hub, driving both local innovation and economic prosperity.

Re-linking of Coventry, Leicester and Nottingham by train could deliver over 4 million extra seats

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Re-linking of Coventry, Leicester and Nottingham by train could deliver over 4 million extra seats
The re-linking of Coventry, Leicester and Nottingham by train would deliver over 4 million extra seats a year for businesses, residents and commuters. Currently, just 3% of trips between Coventry and Leicester are made by train; compared to 30% of journeys made between Coventry and Birmingham. This is because passengers travelling between Coventry and Leicester by train have to change at Nuneaton, resulting in a slow and inconvenient journey. Average speeds for trains between Coventry and Leicester currently fall under 30mph, compared to average speeds of over 100mph for trains from Coventry to London. Midlands Connect’s plans would reinstate direct rail services between Coventry, Leicester and Nottingham for the first time in two decades and slash journey times. The scheme would deliver a 43% reduction for Coventry to Leicester (56 minutes down to 32 minutes) and 44% reduction for Coventry to Nottingham (117 minutes down to 65 minutes). As well as helping cut journey times for passengers, the scheme provides major benefits to the railfreight industry, allowing more freight to be transferred onto the railways, most of which currently has to go by road because there isn’t space for it on the railway. The planned doubling of the Coventry to Nuneaton service stopping at Coventry Arena, Bedworth and Bermuda Park would create nearly 1.5 million extra seats per year. The other part of the scheme, the direct Coventry to Leicester and then onto Nottingham train, stopping at Hinckley and Loughborough, would see a boost of 3 million extra seats a year. Midlands Connect’s Strategic Outline Business Case was submitted to the Department for Transport in Spring 2025 and should this be successful, the next stage will be the submission of an Outline Business Case. Andrew Clark, head of rail at Midlands Connect, said: “Passengers travelling between Coventry and Leicester by train currently have to change at Nuneaton, resulting in a slow and inconvenient journey. Delivering over four million extra seats and a direct service is something that will fill in one the last pieces of the rail puzzle in the Midlands. “The lack of direct rail services between Coventry and Leicester/Nottingham is a major gap in our region’s transport network.” Sir Peter Soulsby, Leicester City Mayor said: “The business case for funding to reconnect Leicester and Coventry by rail, and onto Nottingham, removing the need to change train in Nuneaton, is overwhelming. “Coventry and Leicester are located just 25 miles apart, yet only 3% of journeys between them are taken by rail. By investing in these proposals, we can bring people, businesses, and universities, across the three cities closer together, reducing congestion and cutting down carbon emissions. “A direct service could be transformational for Coventry, Leicester and Nottingham, providing job opportunities, promoting collaboration between our universities, attracting investment, and ultimately, driving forwards economic growth across the Midlands. “I strongly encourage Government to back this proposal.” Mayor of the East Midlands, Clare Ward said: “Reinstating direct rail services between Coventry, Leicester, and Nottingham is a game-changer for our region. This vital link will not only help with journey times but also bring our communities closer together, boosting opportunities for residents, businesses, and commuters across the Midlands. “For Nottingham, it means greater connectivity and easier access to jobs and services. We’re proud to be at the heart of this transformational project that will help build a connected Midlands for everyone.”

Chesterfield Canal regeneration to unlock business potential and community growth

April Lara
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Chesterfield Canal regeneration to unlock business potential and community growth

The Chesterfield Canal, a key part of the town’s industrial heritage, is being transformed into a thriving corridor for business and leisure. Originally constructed to transport coal, iron, and stone, the canal’s restoration is set to support a wide range of new opportunities for local businesses, residents, and visitors.

A recent master plan aims to complete the final 8.5 miles of the canal, making the full 46-mile stretch navigable again. This initiative is more than a historical restoration; it’s a forward-thinking development with a focus on economic growth. The canal will become a hub for outdoor activities, such as cycling, walking, and paddle sports, while also creating new spaces for businesses, cafés, and shops. With 18 hubs identified along the route, each with its unique character, the plan aims to offer something for everyone, whether for leisure, business, or community engagement.

In particular, the Staveley Canal Basin is being reimagined with new business spaces and recreational facilities, offering a perfect setting for cafés and shops. The regeneration is expected to generate significant economic benefits, with £250 million projected in visitor spending and thousands of jobs to be supported across the region. This project positions the canal as a key player in boosting local economies, while also enhancing biodiversity and providing a space for future generations to thrive.

Contractors join forces to back new industry centre

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Contractors join forces to back new industry centre
Wates, Stepnell, Morgan Sindall, Kier and BAM have partnered with the newly formed Centre for Construction Best Practice (CCBP) as Gold Corporate Partners, in a move that signals growing momentum behind a sector-wide push for collaboration, innovation and improved delivery standards. The five firms are committed to supporting CCBP’s mission to tackle long-standing issues in the industry, including supply chain instability, skills shortages, and the need for stronger, more collaborative relationships between clients and delivery teams. As founding partners, they will contribute their knowledge and expertise to help shape the Centre’s future direction. The centre is focused on closing the gap between academia and practice by facilitating meaningful collaboration through its academic Advisory Boards and Corporate Partner network. This unique partnership ensures feedback and research flows both ways to encourage tangible improvements in project delivery, sustainability and sector culture. Robbie Blackhurst, chair of the Centre for Construction Best Practice, said: “At CCBP, we believe innovation and best practice in the built environment can only happen through collaboration. The commitment from BAM, Kier, Wates, Morgan Sindall, and Stepnell shows they share that vision. “With major government investment underway and urgent challenges around skills, net zero and delivery capability, we need joined up and research-led action. CCBP connects industry and academia to address these issues head on, not through a talking shop, but by driving practical change through research and collaboration. “It’s encouraging to see companies who normally compete working together for the benefit of the wider industry.” Stephen Beechey, group public sector director at Wates Group, said: “Improving how we deliver the built environment requires more than technical solutions – it takes genuine collaboration, shared learning, and a long-term view of value. “That’s why we’re pleased to support the Centre for Construction Best Practice. Its focus on bridging industry and academia aligns with our belief that thriving places are created when expertise is shared, and delivery is reimagined.” Rebecca Boundy, managing director for clients and markets at Kier, added: “We joined CCBP because we believe in the value of bringing together industry expertise and academic research to drive meaningful change. “Working alongside other contractors and researchers, we will create practical solutions which improve how we deliver projects. It’s about combining knowledge, technology, and collaboration to raise standards and create lasting impact. “We’re excited about the journey ahead and the opportunities this partnership will bring—not just for Kier, but for the wider industry.” Adrian Blackie, pre-construction director at BAM echoed this point, commenting: “As a corporate partner for the Centre for Construction Best Practice our ambition is to collaborate with industry partners and academia to drive best practice, promote innovation, and make our vision possible.” CCBP recently hosted its first roundtable, where partner organisations agreed a focus on improving the UK’s construction delivery model. Key concerns raised included a lack of early contractor engagement, inconsistent accountability, and poor risk allocation, all of which can lead to programme delays and cost overruns. The Centre will work to promote earlier collaboration between clients, designers and contractors, with an emphasis on role-based competency frameworks, transparent risk sharing, and quality-led procurement strategies. Steffan Speer, technical director, Morgan Sindall Construction, said: “At Morgan Sindall Construction, we’re always seeking better ways to deliver. To create real, lasting value for our customers and communities. My role allows me to work across the business to embed best practice and explore innovation wherever it can drive positive change – whether through technology, quality, or collaboration. “That’s why becoming a corporate partner of CCBP made sense. It connects us with like-minded businesses who are equally focused on improving how we design and build – not only in terms of performance, but in purpose. We want to be part of something that challenges the status quo, shares learning openly, and accelerates change and innovation across our industry. “This partnership is an opportunity to shape the future of construction in a more conscious, efficient and impactful way. That’s something I’m proud to support, and something I believe will benefit the entire built environment.” Tom Sewell, regional director of Stepnell, added: “We’re proud to align ourselves with an organisation that shares our ambition to shape a more conscious, forward-thinking built environment. This partnership offers valuable opportunities to collaborate with like-minded peers, contribute to meaningful research, and help influence the future of policy.” With backing from its Gold Corporate Partners, the Centre will now press ahead with its research agenda and sector engagement programme. This will include the publication of government whitepapers, industry-wide working groups, and events that bring together practitioners and academics to address real world challenges and shape practical solutions that can be adopted across the supply chain.

Nominate the region’s Most Active Agents for the prestigious East Midlands Bricks Awards 2025

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Nominate the region’s Most Active Agents for the prestigious East Midlands Bricks Awards 2025
Property and construction leaders from across the region will descend on Trent Bridge Cricket Ground on Thursday 2nd October for East Midlands Business Link’s 10th Bricks Awards. The prestigious annual event recognises development projects, businesses and people in commercial and public building across the East Midlands – from office, industrial and residential schemes, through to community projects such as leisure schemes and schools. We also showcase the work of architects, agencies and those behind large schemes. With nominations open until Friday 15th August, and 10 categories available to enter, ensure to take this opportunity to shine a light on your projects and team, reward their hard work, and boost morale. One of this year’s categories is Most Active Agent, which can be entered here. The winner of this category will be the estate agents / property consultants who have had the biggest impact on the commercial property sector over the last 12 months, whether that be in deals done, quality of any given deal, or excellent customer service. It’s completely free to submit a nomination and making the top three finalists in your category also wins you free tickets to the awards ceremony. Last year the award was won by Rigby & Co, with FHP Property Consultants and Salloway Property Consultants runners up. Russell Rigby, managing director at Rigby & Co, said: “It is a real thrill and boost to be awarded the Most Active Agent of the Year award at the 2024 Bricks! The ceremony, and the award, generated a great deal of PR / media profile, which was very very helpful, and it also served as a great motivational boost to the team at Rigby & Co. I would encourage firms to enter and have a go!” Russell also thanked Donna Hill and her team at BH PR & Communications for assisting with the business’s nomination. Russell added: “Donna writes our award nominations and has an incredible track record!” Submit your nominations for Most Active Agent here before entries close on Friday 15th August.
Guests network at the East Midlands Bricks Awards
Winners will be revealed at a glittering awards ceremony on Thursday 2nd October, at the Trent Bridge Cricket Ground (4:30pm – 7:30pm) – an evening also offering an opportunity to establish new connections with property and construction professionals from across the region, and hear from 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. Other award categories open for entry include: Responsible Business of the Year, Developer of the Year, Sustainable Development of the Year, Commercial Development of the Year, Contractor of the Year, Deal of the Year, Architects of the Year, Excellence in Design, and Residential Development of the Year. All entry forms can be accessed here. The Overall Winner award will also be presented at the event. This award cannot be entered, with the winner selected from those nominated for the event’s other awards. The Overall Winner of the East Midlands Bricks Awards 2025 will also receive 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.
 

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:

Further uncertainty at Derbyshire packaging firm after discussions hit a stalemate

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Further uncertainty at Derbyshire packaging firm after discussions hit a stalemate
Workers at a Derbyshire packaging company say they are facing a summer of uncertainty after meetings with bosses hit a stalemate. 139 members of staff at DS Smith Clay Cross face redundancy after being told that the Pilsley Road factory is one of five sites earmarked for closure by the end of the year. DS Smith was acquired by International Paper earlier this year with the American firm stating that they had no plans to close any UK sites. However, the company released a statement last month saying the move was “to improve efficiencies and to respond to the evolving needs of our customers in what are tough trading conditions for the industry.” Workers at DS Smith Clay Cross, which has employed local people for more than 60 years, have met with International Paper representatives, but there appears to be further confusion over the company’s decision to close the factory, with contrasting information communicated to staff. John Smith, who has worked for DS Smith for more 19 years, said: “We have been told on several occasions how well we have been performing, contributing to the local economy and praised for raising money for local schools and charities. “However, following two meetings with International Paper representatives and a visit from our local MP – who fully backed our campaign to keep DS Smith Clay Cross open – we are no clearer over the future of the site. “We have been told that the decision to close Clay Cross was because of lack of work throughout group. If that’s the case why not ask for voluntary redundancies throughout group rather than the brutality of shutting down a whole factory?” International Paper initially stated that DS Smith Packaging, prior to the takeover, were the ones whose decision it was to close the Clay Cross site. And now they’re saying it was a decision made by International Paper. “We really have no idea what is going on and, the worry for us, is that International Paper don’t appear to know either.” John Smith went on to say that he believes the workers have been ‘hoodwinked’ and that they were led to believe that DS Smith Clay Cross was profitable. He said: “We are not fools; we know that a business has to be profitable to be viable, but we are. We are hitting record numbers and new work is continuing to come in. “DS Smith Clay Cross has consistently performed well, and so the decision to shut the factory is questionable. We have an excellent reputation within the industry, and an impeccable health and safety record. “There are still so many questions that need answering – and I fear we may never know the decision behind International Paper’s decision to choose DS Smith Clay Cross as one of the five sites it plans to close at the end of the year.” There has been suggestions that International Paper plan to sell the Clay Cross site to housebuilders, but this has been rebuffed by bosses. Smith added: “We have generations of families who work here and, during Covid, we were key workers who produced the packaging for products on supermarket shelves. “There are young people here who have young families, and for them this news is such a blow. They feel let down. “We are a loyal workforce, and we want answers from International Paper over the future of the Clay Cross site. “DS Smith contributes massively to the local economy, and it will be devastating if the factory shuts. We are going to continue to do everything in our power to keep DS Smith Clay Cross open.” International Paper said it expected the proposals would be implemented by the end of this calendar year. The consultation period is ongoing. GMB Union has described the closures as ‘brutal’. Matt Roberts, GMB national officer, said: “The loyal DS Smith workforce were reassured throughout the takeover that it would be a positive step.

“But brutal closures of multiple sites and savage job cuts at others so soon into the new ownership are way beyond their worst fears.

“This cruel move is a huge shock for these workers, their families and their communities – not to mention a disaster for this strategically important industry.”

C&C Insurance Brokers expands with new Nottingham office

April Lara
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C&C Insurance Brokers expands with new Nottingham office

C&C Insurance Brokers has launched its newest regional office in Nottingham, marking the company’s ninth site. The new location will be led by Luke Oprych, a seasoned professional with over 21 years of experience in the insurance industry. Previously working at Momentum, Partners&, and CGI, Luke brings a wealth of expertise to the role, aiming to strengthen C&C’s presence in the East Midlands and across the East of England.

The Nottingham office is set to cater to clients in sectors such as transport, haulage, construction, and commercial enterprises. While based in Nottingham, Luke plans to extend C&C’s services to clients nationwide, recognising that strong client relationships and trust transcend regional boundaries.

Luke Oprych is known for his hands-on approach, prioritising client needs and offering bespoke solutions, from securing better premiums to enhancing protection levels. His leadership vision is inspired by the success of C&C’s other regional offices, particularly C&C Leeds, which has seen rapid growth under Tom’s leadership.

The new office highlights C&C’s commitment to fostering an environment where employees can thrive, with over 40% of staff having been with the company for more than five years. Luke, who values a transparent, growth-oriented workplace, believes that C&C’s collaborative culture will be key to the Nottingham office’s success.

In addition to his work, Luke enjoys playing football and has recently joined a veterans’ team, though he admits his last match left him “booted around the park.”

C&C’s expansion into Nottingham underscores the company’s ambitious growth plans, with Luke Oprych leading the charge to deliver tailored, client-focused insurance solutions across the UK.

Business leaders meet to address EDI challenges and opportunities

April Lara
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Business leaders meet to address EDI challenges and opportunities

On 4th July, business representatives gathered for a roundtable discussion on Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion (EDI) at emh Group’s Leicester office. Organised by East Midlands Chamber and its strategic partner emh Group, the event focused on sharing best practices and addressing key challenges within EDI, such as concerns over ‘getting it wrong,’ balancing free speech, and determining what to include in company policies.

The roundtable followed the release of a regional report on EDI in businesses, which revealed that while 70% of firms in the East Midlands have an EDI policy, one-third still fear making mistakes. The report, which advocates for 2025 to be a ‘year of action,’ highlights the benefits of an inclusive environment and the ongoing hurdles in achieving full engagement with EDI. While most businesses recognise the importance of inclusion, fear of making errors remains a significant barrier for many. A portion of businesses also believe that EDI policies offer little to no benefits.

The roundtable allowed businesses to share successful strategies and discuss ways forward. These insights will inform future policies, regional initiatives, and government recommendations to support firms in improving EDI engagement.

As businesses face evolving challenges, collaboration in EDI is seen as crucial in driving regional productivity and fostering inclusive environments.

Redevelopment of Grey Friars site in Leicester gets green light

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Redevelopment of Grey Friars site in Leicester gets green light
Full planning permission has been granted for the redevelopment of the Grey Friars site in Leicester’s Old Town. It allows the restoration and conversion of two Grade II listed buildings and one non-designated heritage asset into 62 residential apartments and a commercial space. The development will provide a mix of one and two-bedroom apartments, bringing new life to three empty historic buildings.
A new extension has been designed to blend in with the current roof, ensuring the building’s main appearance from the front remains largely unchanged, while modern materials make a clear distinction between the historic structure and the new addition. The Grey Friars area of Leicester is recognised as the burial site of King Richard III, whose remains were discovered beneath a nearby car park in 2012, marking one of the most significant archaeological finds of the 21st century. Keshiv Sudera, managing director of Design Studio Architects, said: “This is more than a housing project — it’s a legacy scheme for Leicester. Grey Friars holds immense historic value, but like many heritage sites, it’s been under pressure from vacancy and neglect. “We’re honoured to breathe new life into this location, delivering thoughtfully designed homes and restoring its relevance in our modern city. This development reflects our commitment to architecture that respects the past while shaping a more vibrant urban future.” Construction is expected to begin later this year.
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