Autumn boost for East Midlands economy as business cashflow improves

Tess Egginton
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Autumn boost for East Midlands economy as business cashflow improves
A late summer fall in the number of East Midlands businesses with overdue creditor payments, as well as a decrease in insolvency-related activity, could indicate a much-needed boost for the local economy heading into the final quarter of 2025. This is according to the Midlands branch of national restructuring, turnaround and insolvency trade body R3, and is based on an analysis of data from business intelligence provider Creditsafe. R3’s figures show that the number of East Midlands businesses with invoices overdue for payment dropped from 25,607 in July to 24,462 in August, while the quantity of debts owed by liquidated firms in the region fell by a sizeable 10.08% over the same time period. There was also a decrease in insolvency-related activity in August compared to August of last year, showing fewer liquidator and administrator appointments as well as creditors’ meetings. R3 Midlands chair Stephen Rome, a partner at Penningtons Manches Cooper in the region, said: “It’s encouraging to see the local economy tightening up on the all-important business cashflow, particularly as there is much speculation about tax rises in the Autumn Budget and how the Government will counter increased spending and a widening fiscal ‘black hole’. “In recent months, however, while we have seen some economic improvements provide companies with a bit of breathing space for growth, there is no doubt that trade remains tough. “R3 would urge any business owners struggling financially to seek advice as early as possible. Most R3 members offer a free initial consultation to explore potential solutions for any significant financial issues.”

Nottingham Building Society appoints non-executive director

Tess Egginton
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Nottingham Building Society appoints non-executive director
Nottingham Building Society, the mortgages and savings mutual, has appointed Clodagh Gunnigle to its board as a non-executive director, replacing Simon Linares, who will retire from the role in November after six years on the board. A chartered accountant with extensive experience in banking and consumer financial services, Clodagh has held senior leadership roles across finance, credit and risk, before building a portfolio of non-executive appointments. She currently serves on the boards of Alpha Bank London, where she chairs the Remuneration Committee, and Admiral Financial Services, supporting the business as it diversifies into unsecured lending and auto finance. She was also previously on the board of Lowell, where she chaired the Audit and Risk Committee, and is a non-executive director, serving as chair of Audit and Risk, at Sonas, a Domestic Violence charity in Ireland. In her executive career, Clodagh held senior roles with GE Capital and Arrow, gaining deep expertise in governance, transformation, and M&A. She has been instrumental in driving cultural change, improving governance frameworks, and implementing performance and risk management best practice across multiple organisations. Simon Linares joined the Nottingham Building Society’s Board in 2019, bringing a wealth of HR, communications and leadership expertise from roles at Direct Line, O2 Europe, Telefonica, and Diageo. Over the past six years, he has played a key role in shaping the Society’s people strategy and strengthening its culture. Robin Ashton, chair of Nottingham Building Society, said: “We are delighted to welcome Clodagh to the Board. She brings a rare combination of deep technical expertise in finance, credit, and risk with proven experience in transformation and governance across a range of financial services businesses. Her insights will be invaluable as we continue to grow and modernise the Society while staying true to our mutual purpose. “On behalf of the Board, I would also like to thank Simon for his contribution over the past six years. His leadership, strategic insight, and passion for developing people have made a lasting impact on the Society, and we wish him the very best for the future.”

DSP (Interiors) helps grease the wheels of industry with second project for engineering components firm

Tess Egginton
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DSP (Interiors) helps grease the wheels of industry with second project for engineering components firm
Interior fit-out specialists DSP (Interiors) has completed a second major project for engineering components firm Hayley Dexis. The firm has completed the turnkey design and fit-out of the new Hayley Dexis facility in Burton-on-Trent. Hayley Dexis is a trusted supplier of industrial components and consumables including bearings, seals, power transmission systems, lubricants, PPE and tools. Rapid business growth prompted the need for a larger, more sophisticated facility to meet increased demand and enhance the working environment for staff and clients alike. DSP delivered a comprehensive design-and-build solution, including space planning, bespoke interior finishes, mechanical and electrical works and building control management. The result is a fully customised facility incorporating a dedicated trade counter, open-plan and private offices, breakout area and a purpose-built mezzanine for maximised storage. Garry Waters, manager, said: “We were thrilled to be working with the DSP team again on this project. They did such a fantastic job at our Derby branch, we wanted the same high-quality finish for our Burton site and the results are second to none.” DSP (Interiors) managing director Louisa Priestley said: “We’re incredibly proud to have been invited back to work with Hayley Dexis on their next chapter of growth. It’s always rewarding to build lasting relationships with clients who value quality and trust us to help bring their vision to life. “This project was all about creating a functional, modern space that not only supports operational efficiency but also provides a positive and inspiring environment for the team. We paid close attention to every detail – from the space planning right through to the bespoke finishes – to ensure the final result truly reflected their needs and ambitions. “We’re delighted with the outcome and look forward to continuing our partnership with Hayley Dexis in the future.”

Element Logic UK expands with BS Handling Systems acquisition

April Lara
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Element Logic UK expands with BS Handling Systems acquisition

Element Logic UK has acquired BS Handling Systems, a Leicester-based provider of intralogistics solutions and warehouse fit-outs. The deal strengthens Element Logic UK’s capacity to deliver integrated warehouse automation across the UK and Ireland.

BS Handling Systems brings over 20 years of experience in designing, installing, and servicing conveyors, sortation systems, mezzanine floors, racking, and automated packaging. This expertise complements Element Logic UK’s existing AutoStore® technology and product portfolio, enabling the combined business to offer end-to-end intralogistics solutions.

The acquisition supports Element Logic UK’s strategy to broaden its offerings beyond AutoStore®, addressing growing market demand for fully integrated warehouse solutions. Customers can now access scalable automation services that cover both technology deployment and physical warehouse infrastructure.

From a commercial perspective, the integration aligns Element Logic UK’s technology leadership with BS Handling Systems’ operational capabilities, enhancing service continuity and local expertise. The combined teams aim to streamline warehouse operations for clients and expand capacity for future projects across the region.

This move forms part of Element Logic’s ongoing growth trajectory, reinforcing its position as a leading provider of advanced warehouse automation solutions in Europe. The acquisition highlights a focus on merging global scale with specialised local knowledge to meet evolving intralogistics requirements.

“We are excited to welcome BS Handling Systems to the Element Logic family,” said Scott Torrington, managing director of Element Logic UK and Ireland. “Their strong industry expertise and customer focus aligns well with our goal to innovate warehouse solutions, providing comprehensive in-bound and out-bound services quickly and focusing on delivering value to our customers.” “We are delighted to announce the next step in BS Handling’s journey as we join forces with Element Logic UK,” said Robert Brand-Smith, MD of BS Handling. “This partnership brings together our proven expertise in conveyors, storage and automation, to merge with Element Logic’s global scale and proven innovation, providing full turnkey integrator solutions specifically for the UK and Ireland markets. “For our customers, it means continuity with the same trusted team, combined with even greater capability, resources, and technology with Element Logic UK. For our staff, it opens up exciting new opportunities to grow and develop within one of the top automaton companies in the world. We’re proud of what we’ve built to date, and the future with Element is going to be extraordinary. We are all very excited for the journey ahead!”

TSC Simulation secures six-figure funding to expand operations

April Lara
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TSC Simulation secures six-figure funding to expand operations

Nottingham-based TSC Simulation has received a six-figure investment from the Midlands Engine Investment Fund II, managed in the East and South East Midlands by Maven Capital Partners. The funding comes via the British Business Bank and is aimed at supporting the company’s growth, software development, team expansion, and new product launches.

Founded in 1978, TSC develops operator training simulators and high-fidelity simulation platforms used across multiple industrial sectors, including oil and gas, nuclear, utilities, food production, and pharmaceuticals. Its systems replicate real-world plant and control operations to enhance safety, performance, and decision-making. TSC’s simulators are deployed in more than 30 countries and are used by major clients, as well as educational institutions delivering standardised industry training programmes and emergency response courses.

The company is introducing simulation tools aligned with renewable energy applications, including hydrogen production, in response to growing demand from the education and industry sectors. TSC remains a family-owned business, led by CEO Andrew Bolton, who succeeded founder Michael Bolton in 2022.

The Midlands Engine Investment Fund II, with a total capital of £400 million, provides equity investments up to £5 million and debt financing from £25,000 to £2 million for small and medium-sized businesses across the Midlands region. The fund has previously supported multiple regional businesses seeking to scale operations, develop new products, or innovate within their sectors.

Jobs lost as SOS Wholesale enters administration

Tess Egginton
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Jobs lost as SOS Wholesale enters administration
SOS Wholesale Ltd, based in Derby, has fallen into administration, with the majority of the company’s 100 employees being made redundant. SOS Wholesale is a discount delivered wholesaler that supplies consumer goods to convenience, discount, independent, major multiple, and garden centre retailers in the UK and Ireland. Founded in 1996, the business has grown to become one of the largest wholesalers in the country, providing an extensive range of branded products, including groceries, soft drinks, toiletries, household goods, and confectionary from its warehouse and distribution centre in Derby, and supported by its sales team in Barnsley. In recent months, the business had suffered many of the challenges facing the retail supply chain, including rising input costs and changing consumer spending habits. With cashflow and profitability under pressure, the business was unable to meet its financial obligations as they fell due, and so the directors took the decision to place the business into administration. Rick Harrison and Howard Smith from Interpath were appointed joint administrators to SOS Wholesale Ltd on 8 September. Trading at the business has now ceased, and the majority of the company’s 100 employees have been made redundant. A small number of staff have been retained to assist the joint administrators in their duties as they explore options, including launching a sale process for the business and its assets. Rick Harrison, managing director at Interpath and joint administrator, said: “The retail sector is currently facing a number of challenges which are being felt throughout the supply chain. While SOS Wholesale had established itself as one of the largest wholesalers in the market, the challenges it faced and the impact on its finances proved insurmountable. “Regrettably, the business was not in a position to continue trading and the majority of staff have been made redundant. We urgently call on any interested parties to come forward as we explore options for a possible sale of the business and its assets. We are also prioritising support to those employees impacted by redundancy, including supporting them in making claims to the Redundancy Payments Service.”

SOCOTEC UK and Ireland swoops for Lloyds Datum Group

Tess Egginton
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SOCOTEC UK and Ireland swoops for Lloyds Datum Group
Burton-based SOCOTEC UK and Ireland has acquired Belfast-headquartered Lloyds Datum Group (LDG), experts in foundation testing, structural monitoring, geotechnical and environmental systems.
The strategic acquisition enhances SOCOTEC’s capabilities in the infrastructure field, with LDG’s expertise expanding SOCOTEC’s overall offering, as well as marking further growth into the island of Ireland and SOCOTEC’s first office in Northern Ireland. LDG comprises of both Lloyd Acoustics Limited and Datum Monitoring Ireland Limited. Alongside utilising SOCOTEC’s experience to enhance client offerings in Ireland, there are also plans to utilise LDG’s expertise increasingly within the rest of the UK, primarily to complex foundation and micro-piling projects.
Matthew Marriott, CEO, SOCOTEC UK & Ireland, said: “This acquisition of Lloyds Datum Group is the next step of our growth strategy and the expansion of our Infrastructure capabilities across the UK and Ireland. “Following our second Scottish acquisition in two years, our first major acquisition in Ireland marks the next stage of expanding our geographical footprint, doubling our overall office space in Ireland, and demonstrating our commitment to continue investing in this important area.”

Nigel Dillon, managing director, Lloyds Datum Group, said: “Partnering with SOCOTEC UK and Ireland gives LDG an incredible platform from which to expand and deliver an enhanced service offering to our clients.

“With our Belfast HQ and Dublin office in place, we are looking forward to becoming part of SOCOTEC’s presence on the island of Ireland, and building upon our existing legacy, while accessing wider resources and expertise.”
Nigel Dillon will continue in his position to lead LDG under the new SOCOTEC ownership.

ANS strengthens AI and data capabilities with Makutu acquisition

April Lara
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ANS strengthens AI and data capabilities with Makutu acquisition

Manchester-based technology consultancy ANS has acquired Derby firm Makutu, a specialist in data engineering and AI solutions. The transaction brings 25 data and AI professionals into ANS, expanding its capacity to deliver enterprise-scale data platforms.

Makutu, founded in 2020, provides services across Microsoft Fabric readiness, OneLake migration, predictive analytics, and IoT integration. Its client base includes local authorities, housing providers, utilities, and retail organisations. The consultancy has been recognised as a leading emerging player by industry analysts.

The acquisition reinforces ANS’s focus on Microsoft technologies. The company employs more than 100 certified Microsoft specialists, including four Most Valuable Professionals, and was named Microsoft Services Partner of the Year in 2024.

Following its 2022 purchase of Dynamics 365 consultancy Preact, ANS continues a strategy of combining selective acquisitions with internal growth. Makutu’s expertise in AI and real-time data is expected to enhance ANS’s ability to support organisations across sectors with scalable, data-driven technology solutions.

Radcliffe on Trent scheme connects new homeowners with local businesses

April Lara
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Radcliffe on Trent scheme connects new homeowners with local businesses

A new initiative in Radcliffe on Trent is linking incoming residents with independent businesses in the village.

Spitfire Homes, a Midlands-based developer, has launched its Gold Card programme at Sherbourne, its first Nottingham housing collection. The scheme gives new homeowners access to offers from local retailers, hospitality venues, and leisure providers, with businesses able to set their own promotions at no cost.

Early partners include Radcliffe Golf Club, Lisa’s Barber Shop, The Flower Shop, One More Chapter Bookshop, Ava Joyce Ladies Boutique, and Fruitlicious Fruit and Veg Shop. The programme aims to increase footfall for local traders while helping new residents integrate into the community.

The Sherbourne development will also contribute more than £2 million to local infrastructure, including £450,000 for highways and transport improvements and £870,000 to expand Radcliffe-on-Trent Infant and Junior Schools.

The Gold Card scheme remains open to additional local businesses. Spitfire Homes is actively seeking new partners to expand the programme and strengthen community engagement.

Derbyshire businesses call for final teams to join charity golf day helping families in need

Tess Egginton
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Derbyshire businesses call for final teams to join charity golf day helping families in need
Two Derbyshire businesses are calling on local firms to sign up for a charity golf day later this month, with just a few team places remaining. South Normanton-based strategic marketing agency Purpose Media and Derby-headquartered S. O’Brien Heating Solutions are teaming up for a second year to host the event at Morley Hayes on 24th September, in aid of Miles for Smiles. Building on last year’s success, which raised £15,000 for the European team competing in the Cairn’s Cup, the ‘Ryder Cup of disabled golf’, organisers are aiming to generate even more vital funds this time around. This year, proceeds will support Miles for Smiles, a local charity which has raised more than £380,000 since 2016, providing grants and memorable experiences to 379 families and organisations affected by disabilities, life-changing and life-limiting conditions across South Derbyshire, East Staffordshire and North West Leicestershire. “After the tremendous success of last year, we’re excited to be hosting the golf day again. We have just a few places left, and we’d love to see more businesses and groups get involved. It’s a fantastic opportunity to enjoy a day of golf, while supporting a charity that makes a real difference to so many families,” said Steve O’Brien, owner of S. O ‘Brien Heating Solutions. Matt Wheatcroft, managing director of Purpose Media, added: “Sport has the power to bring people together, and by taking part in this event, businesses can enjoy a great day out while also helping Miles for Smiles continue its incredible work. “Our experience last year shows that businesses in our region are prepared to do their bit for a good cause and we’re certain that, once again, they will want to be a part of such a positive initiative.” It costs £400 per team of four to take part in the golf day, which will include breakfast, a two-course dinner and awards ceremony, as well as competitions throughout the day, including longest drive and closest to the pin. To book one of the remaining spaces, visit: https://www.purposemedia.co.uk/purpose-media-golf-day-2025
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