East Midlands manufacturers urged to accelerate digital adoption

April Lara
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East Midlands manufacturers urged to accelerate digital adoption

Manufacturers in the East Midlands are being encouraged to capitalise on Made Smarter, a government-backed programme that offers tailored support to small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) seeking to integrate digital technologies into their operations.

The initiative includes up to £20,000 in matched grant funding to help manufacturers automate manual processes, improve stock control, or enhance production planning through the use of technology. Beyond funding, the programme provides access to digital experts, personalised change roadmaps, leadership and skills development, and fully funded internships pairing manufacturers with students or graduates to explore digital projects without long-term commitments.

The support aims to improve productivity, reduce costs, and increase resilience for regional manufacturers, many of whom are under pressure to modernise in the face of economic uncertainty and global competition.

With limited places available and time-sensitive funding, businesses are being encouraged to assess their digital readiness and act now to secure support. The Made Smarter programme has already demonstrated results in other regions, where participants report improved efficiency, faster innovation, and greater confidence in deploying new technologies.

Side-hustle support programme targets UK’s next wave of entrepreneurs

April Lara
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Side-hustle support programme targets UK’s next wave of entrepreneurs

Small Business Britain and eBay have launched a free six-week digital skills programme designed to help UK side-hustlers formalise and scale their ventures into full-time businesses.

The initiative, called the Side-Hustle Lab, launched on June 4 and will support up to 500 early-stage entrepreneurs. It includes online modules on launching and growing a business, managing time and finances, selling through platforms like eBay, customer service, and sustainability.

The programme responds to a five-year decline in UK small business numbers, which fell from 6 million in 2020 to 5.45 million in 2024. Despite the downturn, new research suggests side-hustling is now the most common entry point into entrepreneurship, accounting for 39% of small business launches. Nearly half of those eventually become full-time operations.

Participants will receive guidance from industry experts and gain access to a peer network of fellow entrepreneurs. The training also focuses on e-commerce, digital marketing, and artificial intelligence, areas of increasing relevance in today’s small business landscape.

The move is part of a broader call for more tailored support for micro-enterprises and emerging founders, particularly those launching businesses alongside other work.

Funding support sees Leicester manufacturer gear up for global growth

Tess Egginton
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Funding support sees Leicester manufacturer gear up for global growth
A Leicester-based family manufacturing business is accelerating its global growth following a six-figure funding package from Lloyds. DMMP Limited, a subsidiary of the fourth-generation, family-owned George A. Palmer Group, designs and distributes high-precision fertiliser spreaders for the amenity and landscape sectors. Originally established as a UK wholesaler in 2009, the company pivoted to manufacturing its own products in 2023 in response to rising international demand. To support the next stage of its expansion, Lloyds provided a £400,000 funding package to enable operations through DMMP’s new Indian manufacturing arm, Indian Small Tool Equipment Company (ISTEC). Located near Pune in Western India, the site now employs more than 40 staff and has capacity to produce a container’s worth of spreaders daily for export worldwide. The US is also emerging as a key growth market, driven by the country’s expansive landscaping, golf and sports turf sectors. The company is also building out its presence across Asia, targeting emerging markets such as India, Vietnam and the Middle East. Since establishing the Indian facility in early 2024, DMMP has seen its turnover triple – driven by increased production capacity, shorter lead times, and the ability to fulfil larger export volumes. Looking ahead, DMMP Limited is forecasting further growth with the potential to double turnover again over the next 24 months. To support this, the company is investing in new metalworking machinery to bring more of the manufacturing process in-house and further improve quality control. Marcus Palmer, director at DMMP Limited, said: “Our international expansion has been the most ambitious and rewarding phase in our company’s near 100-year journey. Lloyds understood the complexity of what we were trying to do and structured a financial solution that bridged borders and timelines. Their support has helped us stay ahead of soaring demand, particularly in North America and India, while retaining the quality and precision our customers expect.” Claire Carr, relationship manager at Lloyds, said: “DMMP is a fantastic example of a business that has responded to supply chain challenges with innovation and bold thinking. Their shift from importer to international manufacturer demonstrates what’s possible with the right leadership and support. We’re proud to have helped facilitate this next chapter in their global expansion.”

See Limited ramps up hiring to support built environment growth

April Lara
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See Limited ramps up hiring to support built environment growth

Northamptonshire-based See Limited is expanding its workforce as part of its ongoing growth in the UK’s built environment sector. The company is currently recruiting for two new positions within its panel fabrication division, Bousfields, based in Corby.

The recruitment drive includes roles for a Production Support Specialist and a Sales Account Executive. The former will be responsible for managing the flow of materials to support production and delivery targets. At the same time, the latter will play a key role in driving commercial performance and client relationships.

This follows recent internal promotions and continued investment in operational leadership, as See Limited positions Bousfields for greater commercial output and market share. Bousfields, a long-established name in panel fabrication since 1949, is a core part of See Limited’s offering and central to its wider growth strategy.

Targeting candidates seeking long-term progression within the built environment industry, See Limited aims to strengthen its in-house capabilities and support its ongoing expansion in one of the UK’s largest economic sectors.

New CEO for Space Park Leicester

Tess Egginton
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New CEO for Space Park Leicester
The University of Leicester has named a new CEO to lead Space Park Leicester, its £100 million science and innovation park. The University has appointed Will Wells as chief executive officer of Space Park Leicester, who will take up the role from his current position as director of commercialisation and knowledge exchange within the research and enterprise division. Working at the juncture between business, universities and government, Will’s career has spanned senior roles in global corporations (Anglo-American and Cummins), the Civil Service and high growth SMEs. Will led on the commercial and government engagement themes of Space Park Leicester’s development from the initial concept through to its delivery. Nationally he has been the architect and executive lead on major national innovation programmes, including the Space Research Innovation Network & Technology (SPRINT), VentureVersity and, latterly, Forging Beyond. He is director of the European Space Agency Business Incubation Centre Leicester. He has an MBA and is Fellow of the Chartered Management Institute. He takes on leadership of Space Park Leicester as professor Richard Ambrosi moves on from the role of executive director to focus his attention on the spinout company Perpetual Atomics, while continuing in his role as professor of Space Instrumentation and Space Nuclear Power Systems at Leicester. Will Wells, CEO of Space Park Leicester, said: “I am absolutely delighted to be leading Space Park Leicester in this next phase of its development and working with colleagues to deliver on our vision for a world leading beacon of Research, Knowledge Exchange and Innovation for the whole institution. “I am passionate about research and building partnerships that deliver impactful and inclusive growth for the University and our region. Beyond this, Space Park can lay claim to global reach and reputation, aligned with our international prominence in Space and Earth Observation.”

Revenue and profit dip at Dr. Martens as its sets out ‘Levers For Growth’

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Revenue and profit dip at Dr. Martens as its sets out ‘Levers For Growth’
Revenue and profit are down at Dr. Martens, as the iconic Northamptonshire shoe brand shares its ‘Levers For Growth’ to establish the business “as the world’s most-desired premium footwear brand.”

According to preliminary results for the 52 weeks ended 30 March 2025, group revenue  was down 8% at £787.6m, against a challenging macroeconomic and consumer backdrop in several of the firm’s core markets. Meanwhile, adjusted profit before tax dropped to £34.1m from £97.2m.

The company, however, highlighted its “strong delivery” against its FY25 objectives, which are guiding towards a return to profit growth in FY26.

The year saw Dr. Martens return its direct-to-consumer channel in the Americas back to growth, its marketing approach reset to focus on product, £25m of annualised cost savings delivered, and the business’s balance sheet strengthened ahead of target. Ije Nwokorie, CEO, said: “Our single focus in FY25 was to bring stability back to Dr. Martens. We have achieved this by returning our direct-to-consumer channel in the Americas back to growth, resetting our marketing approach to focus relentlessly on our products, delivering cost savings, and significantly strengthening our balance sheet.

“We are today sharing our Levers For Growth, which will increase our opportunities by shifting the business from a channel-first to a consumer-first mindset.

“We will give more people more reasons to buy more of our products, whether that’s our iconic boots and shoes, newer product families such as Zebzag and Buzz, or adjacent categories such as sandals, bags and leather goods. And we will tailor distribution to each market, blending DTC and B2B, optimising brand reach and ensuring a better use of capital.

“I am laser-focused on day-to-day execution, managing costs and maintaining our operational discipline while we navigate the current macroeconomic uncertainties. Looking ahead, there are significant markets for us to grow into, and we currently own just 0.7% of a total relevant market of £179bn.

“This, combined with the enduring demand for our products, the robustness of our operations, the strength of our cashflow generation and balance sheet and the expertise of our people, gives me confidence that we will deliver the sustainable, profitable growth that this brand is capable of.”

SMEs driving green growth but face barriers to scale

April Lara
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SMEs driving green growth but face barriers to scale

A new report from the government-backed Willow Review has found that UK small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) that are embracing sustainability are already seeing measurable business benefits, including cost savings, new customer acquisition, and improved customer loyalty. However, the report warns that persistent barriers are hindering wider adoption, thereby threatening the UK’s green growth potential.

With SMEs representing 99% of UK businesses and accounting for around half of all business-related carbon emissions, their role in achieving national climate targets is crucial. The Review surveyed 425 small businesses and found that 67% of those implementing sustainability practices reduced operational costs, 52% gained new customers, and 33% improved customer loyalty. Many reported using sustainable materials, cutting waste, limiting travel, and sourcing from greener supply chains.

Despite these advantages, many SMEs struggle to take action due to upfront costs, time constraints, and difficulty accessing financial or advisory support. To address this, the Willow Review issued 14 recommendations across three key areas: simplifying sustainability guidance, expanding access to finance, and creating a more supportive policy environment.

The report calls for clearer signposting to existing funding options, the creation of tailored ‘Green-Up Loans’, and reforms to government schemes like the Growth Guarantee Scheme to support green investments. It also urges integration of sustainability into core services such as the Business Growth Service, alongside incentives for landlords to improve energy efficiency in SME premises.

Student accommodation developer sells nine properties for £212m

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Student accommodation developer sells nine properties for £212m

Unite Students, the owner, manager and developer of student accommodation, has sold a portfolio of nine properties, comprising 3,656 beds for £212 million, to an affiliate of Lone Star Funds.

The disposal portfolio includes assets in Aberdeen, Leicester, Leeds, Nottingham and Sheffield. It includes St. Martins House, Newarke Point and Grange Lane Apartments in Leicester and Curzon House in Nottingham.

The disposal is part of the group’s strategy to increase alignment to high and mid-ranked universities and those properties with the strongest prospects for sustainable long-term rental growth.

Contracts have been exchanged with completion due in August 2025.

Since 2022, the group has now sold 12,000 beds, recycling over £700 million into its strongest markets and new investment opportunities.

Joe Lister, Unite Students chief executive, said: “These disposals increase the alignment of our portfolio to the strongest university cities and continues our disciplined approach to recycling capital.

“Purpose-built student accommodation continues to attract institutional capital as the growing UK 18-year-old population and improving trends in international recruitment underpin demand for high-quality student accommodation.”

Investment zone minister visits hydrogen propulsion systems lab site in Nottingham

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Investment zone minister visits hydrogen propulsion systems lab site in Nottingham
A senior delegation led by Investment Zone Minister Alex Norris MP attended a hard hat tour of the University of Nottingham’s new Hydrogen Propulsion Systems Lab last week, marking an important step in strengthening the region’s role within the UK’s research and innovation ecosystem. The visit was attended by Claire Ward, Mayor of the East Midlands and Professor Jane Norman, President and Vice-Chancellor, University of Nottingham. The visit brought together leaders from G F Tomlinson – the regional contractor delivering the scheme, the University of Nottingham and East Midlands Freeport, to highlight the progress of the laboratory and the infrastructure supporting the UK’s green industrial strategy. The Hydrogen Propulsion Systems Lab is funded through over £70 million of investments including Research England’s flagship UK Research Partnership Investment Fund (UKRPIF) and industry partner co-investment. Once fully operational in mid-2026, it will enable research and safe high-power testing of propulsion systems for transport industries. Featuring cryogenic test capabilities and environmental chambers suitable for altitude testing, the facility will enable the safe high-power testing of propulsion systems using gaseous hydrogen, ammonia, and other green fuels – to support the decarbonisation of industries including aerospace, automotive, marine and power generation. The visit coincided with the completion of EMIZ’s first intake of grantees – 15 industry university collaborations which were awarded over £500,000 in ‘fast start’ funding to accelerate clean technology innovation. The projects were part of the first phase of the government’s £160 million ten-year commitment to positioning the East Midlands region as a hub for net zero industries and span four highlighted priority sectors for EMIZ including zero emissions propulsion, clean energy, sustainable advanced manufacturing and green construction. Adrian Grocock, Group Managing Director for G F Tomlinson, said: “It was a privilege for our team to join Minister Alex Norris and Mayor Claire Ward on the tour to showcase the progress being made on this pioneering facility. “We are proud to play a key role in delivering this landmark project that will position the University of Nottingham as a regional leader in driving economic growth through green industries and advanced manufacturing. “Our longstanding relationship with the university spans over seven capital projects including the delivery of the Advanced Manufacturing Building on Derby Road, close to the new hydrogen propulsion lab site.” Minister for Investment Zones Alex Norris MP said: “The East Midlands has an incredible industrial history. Now we want to build an amazing future for the region, realising its potential and putting it at the heart of our mission to grow the national economy. “Visiting the Hydrogen Propulsion Systems Lab construction site in Nottingham this week, I saw first-hand the amazing work already underway to build on the area’s strengths in green technology. And the East Midlands Investment Zone, backed by government funding, is supporting brilliant projects across the region, giving them the tools they need to create jobs and drive growth.” The fast start projects were developed in partnership with researchers from the University of Nottingham, Nottingham Trent University, and the University of Derby. All are designed to help companies translate cutting-edge research into commercially viable solutions with a strong emphasis on regional deployment and supply chain development. Professor Jane Norman, President and Vice Chancellor, University of Nottingham, said: “These projects show the East Midlands at its best – bringing together ambition, research excellence, and industrial know-how to unlock new opportunities. At the University of Nottingham, we’re not just solving technical challenges, we’re helping define the region’s future. That’s what it means to be not just good at something, but good for something.” Claire Ward, Mayor of the East Midlands, said: “The East Midlands has been a powerhouse for technological innovation in technology since the industrial revolution. As Mayor, I am honouring and building on that legacy by investing £160 million into the East Midlands Investment Zone, which is making and sustaining crucial links between research and actual business practice. “During the first year of the programme, we have seen huge progress across growth sectors such clean energy, green construction, and sustainable manufacturing. This translates into exciting, skilled, and well-paid jobs for the people of the East Midlands. “Today shows what is possible when government backs local organisations and give them the tools they need to succeed. This is how we make our region the best place in the UK for businesses to start, scale, and stay.” The University of Nottingham is also leading the development of technology roadmaps for each sector, identifying areas of competitive advantage and guiding future investment decisions. These roadmaps, including focus on zero emissions propulsion and fusion, will be published in summer 2025 as part of the EMIZ Investment Strategy. The university has worked closely with design teams, including G F Tomlinson, YMD Boon, Turner and Townsend, CPW and Derry’s, and Price & Myers to develop the forthcoming Hydrogen Propulsion Systems Lab.

Construction of landmark rail innovation centre begins

Tess Egginton
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Construction of landmark rail innovation centre begins
Construction of a modern rail innovation and training centre in Barrow Hill – which will create jobs and skills opportunities for local people, and bolster Chesterfield’s ambitions to be a leading destination for the rail sector – has started on site. The Derbyshire Rail Industry Innovation Vehicle (DRIIVe) will sit next to the historic Barrow Hill Roundhouse and will provide classroom and training areas, specialist research and development facilities including a digital laboratory, and commercial workshop space. DRIIVe is part of the multi-million-pound Staveley Town Deal programme and has received additional funding from Chesterfield Borough Council and East Midlands Combined County Authority. Councillor Tricia Gilby, leader of Chesterfield Borough Council and vice chair of the Staveley Town Deal Board, said: “This is an exciting project for Staveley, our borough and our region, that will allow both our residents and our businesses to access high-quality skills and jobs – whilst also strengthening our borough’s position in the rail sector. “It has taken a lot of work to get to this point, but it is great to see works getting started on site. This now means that all but one Town Deal project is either in construction or already delivering benefits for residents. I look forward to seeing this project completed and welcoming the buildings first users in 2026.” The DRIIVe project is being delivered by Chesterfield Borough Council in collaboration with Barrow Hill Engine Shed Society. Mervyn Allcock, manager of the Barrow Hill Roundhouse and Staveley Town Deal Board member, said: “This is a significant project for the whole rail sector, and we are proud to be able to have this facility located next to the historic Roundhouse. We’re already seeing interest from the rail sector in using this space because the state-of-the-art innovation and research facilities will help set us apart from other locations.” Complete construction partner Stepnell will be carrying out construction of the building on behalf of Chesterfield Borough Council. Tom Sewell, regional director at Stepnell, said: “The commencement of DRIIVe is a milestone moment for rail innovation, undertaken as part of the Staveley Town Deal. As we start on site, community engagement remains a vital aspect of the building’s progression, imperative to projects we have supported Chesterfield Borough Council on. “Beyond its fundamental aim of creating opportunities in the rail sector, we want to ensure the specialist facility will be built to the highest standards while generating immense value for the community through local spend and employability opportunities during construction.” Primarily funded through the Staveley Town Deal, DRIIVe has also received a funding boost from East Midlands Combined County Authority. Mayor of the East Midlands, Claire Ward said: “EMCCA is proud to help fund the development of a state-of-the-art rail innovation and training centre in Barrow Hill. This exciting project will not only create jobs and skills opportunities for residents but also inspire the next generation of rail professionals. “It will also strengthen Chesterfield’s position as an innovative destination for the rail sector, offering our young people a path into a rewarding career. We are excited to see the impact this will have on Chesterfield and the region upon its opening in 2026 as we continue to deliver for our residents.” DRIIVe will include classroom and training areas, specialist research and development facilities including a digital laboratory, and commercial workshop space. The centre will support a network of specialist training providers – offering rail-related education from level two through to postgraduate training and research. Becoming a prominent location for rail technology, DRIIVe will also serve as a base for rail-related supply chain businesses which will have access to the very latest research and innovation. Funding for the project is mostly being provided through the Staveley Town Deal – the Staveley area was one of 101 towns across England invited to submit an investment plan to the Government’s Towns Fund and received £25.2 million.
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