Trading ahead of expectations at Breedon

Tess Egginton
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Trading ahead of expectations at Breedon
Trading is ahead of expectations at Breedon, the construction materials group. According to a trading update for the ten months to 31 October 2023, the business has delivered a “strong performance.” When compared to the same period in 2022, revenue increased 8%.

Breedon noted that changes to building regulations in the UK that took effect in June impacted ready-mixed concrete volumes, while aggregate and asphalt volumes have continued to moderate. However, pricing has been sustained and Breedon has maintained “tight control” over its cost base.

Due to a strong performance in the year to date, the company now expects to achieve full year 2023 underlying EBIT ahead of market consensus.

Rob Wood, Chief Executive Officer, said: “Notwithstanding the market backdrop, the Breedon team continues to deliver and we are delighted to report a trading performance ahead of expectations.

“Against the uncertain political and economic backdrop, our teams have adapted well to deliver a compelling performance, whatever the prevailing market conditions.

“Our strategic focus on ensuring Breedon is a great place to work, taking care of our people and the communities around our sites, has once again been reflected in both our financial performance as well as our colleague engagement, of which I am particularly proud.

“But we never settle – we will continue to seek ways to operate as efficiently and sustainably as possible, invest in our people and grow our business so we are positioned to succeed when the construction materials market returns to growth.”

Approval sought for rail training and innovation centre

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Approval sought for rail training and innovation centre
Planning permission is being sought for the Derbyshire Rail Industry Innovation Vehicle (DRIIVe) – a modern rail innovation and training centre set to be located next to the historic Barrow Hill Roundhouse. If approved the new centre will provide workshop and classroom space to support speciality rail industry training, research and development facilities and commercial space for rail related businesses. In total the building is expected to cost around £4 million. Funding for the project has been provided through the Staveley Town Deal. Development of the centre is being delivered by Barrow Hill Engine Shed Society, Chesterfield Borough Council and New Rail (part of Newcastle University). Councillor Tricia Gilby, leader of Chesterfield Borough Council and vice chair of the Staveley Town Deal Board, said: “The Rail sector offers a fantastic range of high-quality careers and DRIIVe is all about ensuing our residents can receive the skills and training they need to access these opportunities. This is an ambitious project that will create opportunities for generations to come and reflects the council’s aims to expand the local Rail sector. “I’m delighted that Town Deal funding is being used to support the development of this building because new training facilities like this will improve career prospects and help ensure that Staveley is the place to start, to stay and to grow.” Mervyn Allcock, general manager at Barrow Hill Roundhouse, said: “If it is approved, DRIIVe will help establish Barrow Hill as the home of the rail industry in Chesterfield and we look forward to speaking to companies about the potential benefits of being based at the centre. Any revenue from the building will be used to support the Roundhouse in achieving its aim of preserving our local Rail heritage.” DRIIVe will provide 1,423 square metres of floor space consisting of classroom and workshop training areas, specialist research and development facilities including a digital laboratory, and commercial offices. The centre will support a network of speciality training providers – offering rail-related education from level 2 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. DRIIVe will create about 20 full time jobs and by year five it aims to support around 270 trainees, supporting local people to access highly skilled careers in the rail industry. Early development and design costs were funded through the Staveley Town Deal Accelerator Fund.

MTMS appoints new project manager

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MTMS appoints new project manager
An army veteran with a passion for the environment and restoring classic motorbikes has joined the team at an East Midlands rail maintenance firm. Ed Wakeford is the new project manager at MTMS, based in Moira, near Swadlincote, as he takes charge of managing its operations at the Craigentinny Train Maintenance Centre, near Edinburgh in Scotland. This depot, which is operated by Hitachi Rail, is vital for maintaining trains from many locations in Scotland and from the north of England and is the biggest depot of its kind north of the border. Ed’s role at Craigentinny will include overseeing the work at the depot, communicating with suppliers and manufacturers and liaising with clients. The 43-year-old said he was looking for a new challenge when he joined MTMS, but it was the team that sealed the deal for him. Ed said: “I love it here as it’s such a nice group of people and this will always be a top priority for me. It is hard being new, but I enjoy going into work and I feel well supported as well as being able to support everyone else. “It’s always changing and there’s always something new to pick up. The team has also made me feel very welcome, which is always important when you’re just starting out.” Ed, who is originally from West Sussex but now lives in Derbyshire, served in the Princess of Wales Royal Regiment for five years where he spent time in Germany, did tours of Afghanistan and trained in Canada and Africa. Since leaving the Army, he has also worked on a new-build housing project, creating open spaces and play areas before joining MTMS. Ed, who is also the company’s Armed Forces champion, said: “The Army taught me to adapt to any scenario as you will be given information and misinformation so it’s about sifting through it in a logical way to sort it out. “I found it quite easy to adapt after leaving the Army. It can be difficult to start off with but there are lots of elements from being in the Army that prepare you. I’m used to being stuck in the middle of nowhere and all you have is what you’ve got in front of you.”

Blueprint Interiors complete six figure showroom refurb to satisfy five generations of workforce

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Blueprint Interiors complete six figure showroom refurb to satisfy five generations of workforce

Workplace consultants and commercial office fit-out specialists Blueprint Interiors has completed another six figure refurbishment of its showroom in Ashby de la Zouch.

The investment is part of continuous programme of investment by Blueprint Interiors to ensure its showroom called WorkLife Central is revitalised and continually showcases the latest design, products and technology reflective of an innovative and versatile workplace.

The refurbishment has featured brand new layouts throughout with the creation of a new “Loft” area upstairs to illustrate how flexible workspaces can be re-configured within minutes to accommodate the variety of workstyles now required.

There are also many other additions that reflect the need for neurodiversity and inclusion as employers seek to satisfy the needs of five generations of employees.

The refurbishments were led by Blueprint Interiors Creative Director, Chloe Sproston and the integration of AV systems to facilitate hassle-free hybrid meetings was carried out by Tom Bamford from TecInteractive based in Ashbourne.

Chloe said: “There’s been a revolution in what people want from their offices and many businesses are still struggling to understand what their workplace is for and what they need to do to attract people back to the workplace.

“By visiting our showroom business owners can experience how their workplace could look, understand the design process and try out furniture, technology, lighting and acoustic effects that help to ensure their environment is motivating and productive, and meets the way in which people now want to work.”

The necessary need for people to work from home suddenly gave everyone a choice of how to work; at the kitchen table, sofa, or home office. For many, this was the first time they’d had such a choice.

Getting people to come back to the rows and rows of desks they left, when they appear to have more choice at home (plus a commute to do) was always going to be hard. It’s now more vital to consider human-centric goals and aims, and the different qualities of the people using the space.

Tom Bamford added: “The aim is to ensure that technology seamlessly integrates into the workspace, designed in a way that’s smart and simple to use – allowing you to focus on what matters most.

“Our successful collaboration on The Loft project with Blueprint Interiors illustrates this commitment. Together, we’ve redesigned the space, showcasing how flexible workspaces can adapt to various workstyles.”

Blueprint Interiors has also recorded its best ever half year results having recently completed projects on behalf of leading employers such as The Melton Building Society, Worldline, and Gleeds. It also has a strong pipeline of work agreed for 2024 and expects to exceed its growth objectives which will result in the creation of a number of new roles at the company.

Council plans to transform outdated junction get funding boost

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Council plans to transform outdated junction get funding boost
Plans to transform Leicester’s St Margaret’s junction to help encourage more walking and cycling, and improve bus journey times, have been given a major cash boost. Leicester City Council has been awarded over £12 million from the third round of the Government’s Levelling Up Fund, which is designed for long-term, major capital projects which will help create jobs, encourage new investment and enable business growth. The proposed highway development project would transform the sprawling junction linking St Margaret’s Way, Burleys Way, Vaughan Way and Church Gate. It will also see the permanent removal of the last remaining pedestrian underpasses on the city’s inner ring road. The large underpass complex was closed and fenced off earlier this year, following surveys that showed many people choose not to use them due to safety concerns and the fear of crime. Proposed improvements include filling-in all three underpasses and major remodelling of the junction to help improve bus journey times, provide a more attractive route for walkers and cyclists and create more green space at this important gateway into the city centre. Ensuring the area feels safe for people to use after dark is another key aim of the project. The introduction of new bus lanes on sections of St Margaret’s Way and Sanvey Gate will help improve journey times and service reliability by creating a direct link between the new St Margaret’s Bus Station and the A6, A50 and Anstey Lane bus corridors. New cycle tracks would also be created on parts of St Margaret’s Way and Sanvey Gate to link to recently created and planned works expanding the citywide network of safer routes for cyclists. Footpaths would be widened and improved, and new parallel crossings for pedestrians and cyclists will be introduced across the busy junction. New landscaping would also help create a stronger link between the city centre and the medieval St Margaret’s Church building, which dates back to the 13th century. The proposed improvements are intended to encourage more walking and cycling, with transport surveys showing that currently just three per cent of people using the junction do so on foot or bike. The scheme will also help to promote new development and regeneration in the area, including providing the infrastructure needed to support investment in new city centre homes to help meet rising demand. Cllr Adam Clarke, deputy city mayor for climate, culture and economy, said: “This is great news for the city and a fantastic opportunity to build on the improvements we have already seen from the award-winning redevelopment of St Margaret’s bus station – the first operationally net zero bus station building in the UK. “The nearby St Margaret’s junction is an outdated throwback to the original 1970s ring road design. Its underpasses are unappealing to pedestrians and are a magnet for anti-social behaviour. “As it stands the junction is a barrier for pedestrians and cyclists, and the current arrangement does no favours for buses leaving the new St Margaret’s Station. “These proposals will address an important missing link in our transport network and help this sprawling junction into an attractive gateway into the city centre for all road users. It will also help reveal one of Leicester’s finest historic church buildings and reconnect it and the surrounding area to the city centre. Importantly, it will also make the route feel safer for people to use, especially at night. “The award of over £12 million from Levelling Up Fund is a huge endorsement of the importance of this scheme. “Providing more attractive and sustainable travel choices for people will help deliver a greener solution for the future growth of the city and support our work around the climate emergency and air quality improvements. We need to be radical and ambitious to meet these challenges.” Alongside the award of £12,177,706 from the Levelling Up Fund, the city council will invest £3 million of capital funding towards the project. Work is expected to get underway in 2025.

Solicitors have Enthusiasm to raise money for youth organisation

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Solicitors have Enthusiasm to raise money for youth organisation

Lawyers across Derbyshire and East Staffordshire have agreed to work together to raise funds for an organisation that supports children and young people from deprived backgrounds.

Derby and District Law Society has named Enthusiasm Trust as its chosen charity for the year and hopes to raise cash to support its work helping children from disadvantaged backgrounds reach their full potential.

Oliver Maxwell, from Nelsons Solicitors on Lodge Lane, was appointed as president of the society in May and chose the charity after attending a Marketing Derby bondholder event at Enthusiasm’s headquarters on Cotton Lane.

The first fundraising activity was a Great British Bake Off-style competition which saw solicitors from across the society’s membership demonstrating their showstopping baking skills in a contest which raised more than £500.

The money will help Enthusiasm Trust continue to provide youth clubs, workshops, homework support and one-to-one mentoring programmes to give young people the opportunities to gain skills, knowledge and experience from a variety of activities.

Oliver said: “I attended an event at Enthusiasm’s headquarters a couple of years ago and was really moved by the sterling work being done there. I was particularly impressed by the creative projects they carried out during lockdown.

“So, when I was given the presidency, it was an easy decision to name Enthusiasm as my chosen charity because it really is a laudable cause.

“The Bake Off was the first event we have all taken part in and there are some talented bakers among the membership. Gemma Plummer from Eddowes Waldron, based at St Peter’s Churchyard, won the ‘best bake’ prize for their Halloween inspired cake, with the Family Law Group on Iron Gate raising the most money.”

The Derby and District Law Society was established in early 1886 and today represents lawyers across the whole of Derbyshire and East Staffordshire. It aims to support the legal profession locally by offering training, social events, and representing its members’ interest. Additionally, the society aims to assist the public in sourcing solicitors with a particular specialism.It already has strong links with Enthusiasm Trust as Claire Twells, from Smith Partnership, is vice chair of the board of trustees while Melanie Brigden is also a board member and a leading partner at Nelsons Solicitors.

April Allman, CEO of Enthusiasm, said: “We are absolutely thrilled that the law society has named Enthusiasm Trust as its chosen charity, because any additional funding really goes a long way and helps us to make a genuine difference to the lives of the people we work with.

“Every year Enthusiasm needs to raise £300,000 to keep delivering its services and so we are really keen to encourage the business community to get on board and help us financially.

“We have a wonderful army of volunteers – 12 young volunteers and 10 at the family hub – and collectively they have worked well over 2,500 hours in the last 12 months.

“Employers can have such a positive influence and impact on young people – both financially and in so many other ways. No matter how big or small the support or donation our organisation will always ensure our young people will benefit from the generosity.”

Senior promotion and investment in younger generation at East Midlands landscape architecture practice

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Senior promotion and investment in younger generation at East Midlands landscape architecture practice

Influence Landscape Planning and Design has promoted Kathryn Dunk to principal landscape architect and expanded its design team.

Kathryn joined Newark-based Influence in 2015 as senior architect/landscape designer. Over the last eight years she has delivered award-winning landscape architecture schemes across the country, and become pivotal to the growth of the business.

Influence moved to the ownership of managing director Sara Boland in 2018. Under her leadership the company has significantly expanded its portfolio and team, particularly the next generation of landscape professionals, which Kathryn has also played a part in.

The company places great importance on sharing the landscape architecture profession with young people and enabling them to access the career with the practice at different stages of education.

Over the last 12 months the company has hired four design assistants and one administration assistant, of which three are graduates and one has joined straight from school after completing A Levels.

Influence’s most recent hire is design assistant Ella Cosgrove, who joined the practice having completed an Interior Architecture degree at Sheffield Hallam University.

Sara Boland, managing director, said: “It is wonderful to be acknowledging talent at a senior level as well as supporting the next generation coming into landscape.

“Kathryn’s 25 years of experience and technical and creative expertise are a real asset to the business. Her ability to apply practical solutions to challenges and her sensitive approach to design, plus strong client relationship skills, are why she has become principle. I’m really pleased for her, and I look forward to the next stage of her career.

“Exposing young people to our craft early on has always been important to me, and it feels right to be expanding our design team with lots of new talent and energy straight from education. Entry to landscape is so varied now and no one should be put off by where they are in their education, or career, or by what course they have taken, there is always a route.

“Seeing our junior team grow and the quality of work they deliver makes me very proud. One day they will be the ones designing the green spaces around us.” 

Light Science Technologies makes fire protection acquisition

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Light Science Technologies makes fire protection acquisition

Light Science Technologies Holdings plc, the Derbyshire-based controlled environment agriculture (CEA) technology and contract electronics manufacturing (CEM) group, has entered into an asset purchase agreement (APA) with Fire Barrier International Ltd (FBIL), to acquire its Injecta Fire Barrier trade and assets (IFB).

The APA is structured with the consideration being a deferred profit share agreement, with no initial or fixed outlays and the acquisition is expected to be near term cash generative for the group.

There are a number of synergies with the group’s existing operations – especially within the CEM division, which has long standing relationships within the fire protection market, providing technology and equipment for the fire safety sector for over 10 years.

IFB will also advantage from the additional governance required under the group’s plc umbrella, which is expected to be a strong selling point for potential clients. It will further benefit from the group’s knowledge and knowhow within maintenance and installation operations. 

IFB will be integrated into the company’s newly incorporated subsidiary LSTH IFB Limited. IFB commenced trading in 2022 and currently owns two pumps, which are capable of generating significant annual revenues. It has completed two projects to date, generating c.£790,000 in sales. It currently has a quoted pipeline of potential sales opportunities worth c.£7 million and a forward order book worth c.£600,000. FBIL is currently wholly owned by LSTH’s CEO, Simon Deacon. LSTH will acquire IFB from FBIL on a contingent deferred consideration basis, with no initial or guaranteed deferred consideration payments. Total maximum consideration payable is £1.75 million over a five year payout time limit.

Simon Deacon, Chief Executive Officer of LSTH, said: “The Government has called for urgent action to make buildings safe across the UK, and there are over 40,000 buildings in UK which need urgent attention. These include hotels, students’ accommodation, apartments, hospitals, government buildings.

“Fire safety is paramount – the Government has already allocated over £5 billion to replace dangerous cladding – a figure that is expected to increase significantly, with some contractors suggesting that a figure closer to £50 billion would be appropriate. 

“We believe that with our knowledge in the industry and our installation teams across the Group, this new division, in a growing market with high demand, resolves a significant problem quickly and cost effectively – and more importantly keeps people safe.

“The cash-generative nature of the business will be valuable as we grow, and the synergies with existing operations make it a strong fit as part of our managed expansion.

“We are excited by the continued opportunities across the CEM and CEA divisions and, given wider government legislation and need for protective solutions, believe that IFB will be a strong addition that will be self-funding from day one.”

Referral programs that work: proven strategies for success

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Referral programs that work: proven strategies for success
Referral marketing has emerged as a powerhouse in the business world, providing a cost-effective and authentic way to acquire new customers. We’ll conduct an exploration of why, among the myriad strategies available, referral programs stand out as a particularly effective tool for growth, dissecting their dynamics, key components, and the crucial role incentives play in their success.

The Power of Effective Referral Programs: A Game Changer

Referral programs are not just a marketing trend; they are a game-changer in the competitive business landscape. The trust and credibility that come with a referral from a satisfied customer can significantly influence potential buyers, and harnessing this power can lead to exponential growth, creating a ripple effect that outpace other outreach marketing efforts. Successful referral programs tap into the psychology of human behavior, leveraging the innate desire to share positive experiences with friends and family. Word-of-mouth marketing, amplified through a structured referral marketing program, has the potential to transform satisfied customers into enthusiastic brand advocates.

Analysing the Dynamics of Successful Referral Campaigns

To understand the dynamics of a successful referral marketing campaign, it’s crucial to analyse the factors contributing to their effectiveness. A well-executed campaign goes beyond simply asking for referrals; it involves understanding customer motivations, creating a seamless user experience, and building a sense of community around your brand. Customer advocacy plays a central role in successful referral dynamics. Identifying and nurturing advocates within your existing customer base is critical. These advocates don’t just appreciate your product or service but are willing to actively promote it. By understanding the traits of these advocates, businesses can tailor their referral programs to resonate with this influential segment.

Critical Components of a High-Performing Referral Program

Crafting a high-performing referral program requires careful consideration of its key components. The foundation lies in a seamless and user-friendly process that encourages customers to participate effortlessly. This includes a clear call-to-action, intuitive user interfaces, and optimised communication channels. Moreover, a successful program incorporates tracking mechanisms to monitor the progress of referrals. Utilising referral marketing software is imperative for efficient tracking, analysis, and management of the program. This software not only simplifies the process but also provides valuable insights into the campaign’s performance.

Crafting Irresistible Incentives: The Heart of Referral Success

At the heart of any successful referral program lies the incentive structure. Crafting irresistible incentives is essential to motivate customers to actively participate in the program. These incentives can take various forms, including discounts, exclusive access to products or services, or monetary rewards. The key is to align the incentives with the values and preferences of the target audience. By offering rewards that resonate with customers, businesses can significantly increase the likelihood of successful referrals. Striking the right balance between enticing incentives and maintaining profitability is an art that defines the success of referral program marketing.

Identifying and Cultivating Potential Advocates

Identifying potential advocates within a customer base is a strategic step in building a successful referral program. Customer advocacy goes beyond simple satisfaction, involving a deep emotional connection with the brand. Businesses can employ various techniques, such as customer surveys and feedback analysis to identify those most likely to become passionate advocates. Once identified, cultivating these advocates requires a personalised approach. Building relationships, acknowledging their loyalty, and involving them in exclusive brand experiences can turn satisfied customers into dedicated advocates. These cultivated advocates become the driving force behind a referral program’s success.

Leveraging Technology for Optimal Referral Program Management

In the digital age, leveraging technology is not just an option but a necessity for optimal referral program management. Referral marketing ideas are pivotal in streamlining the process, automating tasks, and providing real-time insights. From tracking referrals to analysing performance metrics, technology ensures efficiency and effectiveness. Integrating referral marketing software into the overall referral marketing strategy creates a seamless experience for businesses and customers. Automating tasks allows companies to focus on design and relationship-building, while customers enjoy a frictionless referral process.

From Customers to Advocates: A Step-By-Step Guide

Transitioning customers into advocates is a strategic process that involves a well-defined roadmap. A step-by-step guide ensures that businesses navigate this transformation smoothly, maximising the potential of their customer base. The journey begins with delivering exceptional products or services that naturally elicit satisfaction. Once satisfied, customers can be engaged through personalised communication, exclusive offers, and loyalty programs. As this relationship deepens, identifying and nurturing advocates becomes the focus, eventually leading to their active participation in the referral program.

Measuring Referral Program Impact: KPIs and Metrics

To gauge the success of a referral program, businesses must employ key performance indicators (KPIs) and metrics. These metrics provide insights into the program’s effectiveness, along with customer engagement and overall impact on business growth. Common KPIs include the number of referrals generated, conversion rates, and customer lifetime value. Tracking these metrics allows businesses to refine their strategies, optimise incentive structures and continuously improve the referral program for sustained success.

Referral Program Success Stories: Lessons from the Trenches

Examining real-world success stories provides valuable insights into the diverse approaches businesses take to create effective referral programs. From small startups to industry giants, each success story offers unique lessons and inspiration for those looking to harness the power of customer advocacy. By looking at what works for competitors and industry leaders, you can see the adaptability of referral programs across different industries and business models. Whether through innovative incentive structures, creative referral in marketing or exceptional customer experiences, these success stories demonstrate no one-size-fits-all approach to referral program success and provide valuable ideas.

Navigating the Digital Landscape: Best Practices for Online Referrals

In the digital era, online referral marketing tips have become a cornerstone of successful marketing strategies. Navigating the digital landscape requires businesses to adopt best practices that align with the preferences and behaviors of online consumers. Creating shareable content, optimising referral processes for mobile users and leveraging social media platforms are essential components of successful online referrals. The interconnected nature of the digital landscape allows businesses to amplify the impact of their referral programs through strategic online referral marketing efforts.

Ethical Considerations in Referral Program Implementation

While referral programs offer tremendous benefits, ethical considerations must be at the forefront of their implementation. Transparency, honesty, and fairness are fundamental principles that should guide every aspect of a referral program. Businesses must communicate clearly with customers about the incentives and rewards associated with referrals. Additionally, ensuring that the program does not exploit customer trust or compromise the brand’s integrity is paramount. Ethical implementation not only builds trust with customers but also contributes to the long-term sustainability of the referral program. In conclusion, referral programs, when executed with precision and care, are a potent tool for business growth. By understanding the psychology of customer advocacy, leveraging technology and incorporating ethical considerations, businesses can create referral programs that resonate with their audience and drive sustainable success. As the digital landscape continues to evolve, the adaptability of referral programs remains a crucial asset in any marketer’s arsenal.

Northamptonshire groundworks & civil engineering contractor files for administration

Tess Egginton
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Northamptonshire groundworks & civil engineering contractor files for administration
A Northamptonshire groundworks & civil engineering contractor has filed for administration. NRI Civils has been operating for 11 years and has worked with a number of major housebuilders. It was involved in groundworks at a troubled Cambridge housing estate where up to 83 new homes will have to be demolished due to problems with the designs of the foundations. It is not suggested that NRI Civils caused the issues. The business’s estimated turnover is £11m.
PBC Business Recovery & Insolvency is handling the administration.
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