Kinchbus to support Epilepsy Action as charity of the year

Tess Egginton
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Kinchbus to support Epilepsy Action as charity of the year
Colleagues from Kinchbus have chosen Epilepsy Action as their charity of the year for 2025 and beyond. The Loughborough-based bus operator’s staff will be organising fundraising events large and small over the next 24 months in aid of the national charity supporting people with epilepsy. Charlotte Stern, corporate partnerships manager at Epilepsy Action UK, visited the Kinchbus depot in Loughborough to help launch the partnership. Charlotte said: “We are delighted that Epilepsy Action is the Kinchbus chosen charity for the next two years. Their support will help fund our key services and raise awareness of a condition that is incredibly misunderstood. “Over the next two years, we look forward to collaborating with the team to fundraise and working together to help create a world without limits for people with epilepsy.” Tom Morgan, managing director of Kinchbus, said: “We’re thrilled to be partnering with Epilepsy Action. Their work is incredibly important, and we’re looking forward to supporting their mission through a range of activities that will involve our team, our passengers and the wider community.” Among the many services which Kinchbus staff fundraising will be supporting, Epilepsy Action provides a helpline, one-to-one support through befriending and local support groups. In the Kinchbus area Epilepsy Action has support groups that meet monthly in Leicester and Nottingham.

Latest corporate insolvency figures indicate tentative signs of economic recovery

Tess Egginton
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Latest corporate insolvency figures indicate tentative signs of economic recovery
A levelling out of the monthly number of corporate insolvencies in England and Wales is adding weight to signs that the broader economy is showing tentative indications of recovery. This is according to the Midlands branch of the UK’s restructuring, turnaround and insolvency trade body R3 and comes on the back of figures published yesterday (19 August) by the Insolvency Service which show that corporate insolvencies increased only marginally by 1.4% in July to a total of 2,081 compared to June’s total of 2,053, and rose by only 0.1% against July 2024’s figure of 2,078. R3 Midlands chair Stephen Rome, a partner at law firm Penningtons Manches Cooper in the region, said: “Corporate insolvencies remained broadly stable last month, with the trends showing a rise in Compulsory Liquidations and a slight uptick in Administrations, while Creditors’ Voluntary Liquidations and Company Voluntary Arrangements fell. “This pattern may suggest that fewer directors are choosing to close their companies voluntarily, whether because they are seeing improvements in trading conditions or they are caught in a holding pattern, waiting to see where the economy may next head. “The broader economic picture is showing tentative signs of recovery, following a weak April and May, when some spending may have been brought forward in anticipation of higher prices. Economic activity picked up in June, helping Q2 GDP to grow by 0.3%. “While this represents only modest growth, it is encouraging to see the economy moving forward rather than stalling. Coupled with the recent cut to interest rates, the outlook for businesses appears slightly more positive, though it is too soon to gauge the full effect, and above target inflation remains a concern. “R3’s message to local businesses is to remain cautious. Challenges exist for both retail and hospitality, where higher costs, changing consumer habits, and uneven demand continue to make trading conditions difficult. “Within retail, the difficulties appear concentrated among individual retailers rather than the sector as a whole, with some larger high-street brands being outpriced and outperformed by cheaper online, alternatives as shoppers seek the best value. “Construction remains one of the sectors most affected by insolvencies. While it is encouraging to see output rising, many businesses are still facing challenges. Supply chain pressures, skills shortages, and changes in the housing market mean the environment for construction firms continues to be complex and unpredictable, even as overall activity shows some improvement. “Ultimately, any business owners worried about their company’s finances should seek professional advice as soon as possible. Most R3 members will give prospective clients a free initial consultation to learn more about their situation and outline the potential options open to them to improve it.”

Phenna Group makes strategic acquisition in Europe

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Phenna Group makes strategic acquisition in Europe
Phenna Group has made its first major strategic acquisition in continental Europe for 2025, snapping up Sfera Srl, an Italian advisory firm. It is the Nottingham-based group’s 13th acquisition of 2025 and marks the beginning of an ambitious expansion into the region.

SFERA – Engineering Solutions is a nationwide engineering firm founded in 2013 to support companies in managing regulatory compliance as well as designing and managing production operations.

Sfera specialises in regulatory consultancy, offering services such as regulatory gap analysis, risk assessments, CE marking of machinery, system design and engineering, and Pressure Equipment Directive (PED) compliance.

Daniele Giustiniani, CEO of Sfera Srl, said: “Joining Phenna Group marks a new chapter for Sfera. We will continue to serve our clients with the same focus and expertise, now enhanced by international collaboration and the backing of a dynamic and forward-thinking group.”

Phil Marshall, CEO of Phenna Group, added: “This acquisition is a cornerstone of our European growth strategy. Sfera adds new capabilities to our Group, particularly in advisory and operational excellence, and strengthens our presence in a key market. We are excited to welcome the team and look forward to working together to deliver high-value outcomes for our clients.”

The acquisition of Sfera aligns with Phenna Group’s broader strategy to build a diverse network of Testing, Inspection, Certification, and Compliance (TICC) businesses, augmented by specialist advisory and support services.

British Business Bank boosts SME lending with Close Brothers

April Lara
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British Business Bank boosts SME lending with Close Brothers

The British Business Bank has secured a transaction of up to £300 million with Close Brothers under the ENABLE Guarantees programme. The deal expands lending capacity for Close Brothers Asset Finance, covering hire purchase, sale and leaseback, and leasing products.

The expanded facility targets smaller businesses seeking finance for essential capital assets, including vehicles, machinery, and equipment. Funding may also support investment in green and sustainable assets. In 2024, asset finance accounted for around a third of UK investment in these areas, according to the Finance & Leasing Association.

The ENABLE Guarantees programme provides a government-backed guarantee to encourage additional lending to small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). It applies to UK banks, branches of foreign banks, and asset-based finance providers lending to viable SMEs. Participating lenders receive support for defined portfolios of debt finance in return for a fee.

Close Brothers Commercial, which delivers almost £5 billion in lending annually to UK businesses, will use the additional capacity to extend finance to a broader range of firms. Loan amounts range from £5,000 to £100 million. The programme aims to improve access to finance for SMEs, particularly during periods of economic uncertainty.

WH Davis to create 20 jobs in Shirebrook in €44m export deal

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WH Davis to create 20 jobs in Shirebrook in €44m export deal
WH Davis, the independent railway wagon manufacturer – and part of Buckland Rail – has secured a €44 million export deal to supply 150 freight wagons to Ireland. The deal has been enabled with support from export credit agency UK Export Finance (UKEF) through its Bond Support Scheme. An 80% guarantee provided by UKEF for the required contract bond means WH Davis’ bank, Barclays, was able to issue capital that would help to fund the production and delivery of the wagons. The contract represents the first order under a 10-year framework agreement that could see the number of wagons supplied rise to 400. The wagons will support Ireland’s ambitious rail freight expansion strategy and are expected to start delivering in summer 2026, with all wagons delivered and in service by the end of 2027. The contract is expected to facilitate a significant expansion of the company’s workforce by one quarter (25%) – from 80 to 100 staff members. The jobs will be located at WH Davis’ manufacturing site in Shirebrook. Andy Houghton, managing director of WH Davis, said: “We are proud to be shaping the future of rail freight with this landmark export contract. This is a significant milestone for WH Davis and reaffirms the strength of UK manufacturing on the international stage. UKEF’s support has given us the confidence and liquidity to deliver on our ambitions and explore new export internationally.” Tim Reid at UK Export Finance said: “WH Davis’s return to exporting after 20 years, backed by UKEF’s Bond Support Scheme, shows the transformative power of export finance in revitalising local manufacturing and creating skilled jobs in communities like Shirebrook. “This is a clear example of the potential that British firms have to succeed in global markets while driving local growth.” Barclays has a long-standing relationship with WH Davis, which was key in facilitating the innovative bonding structure used in this deal. The bank is supporting the business with a total of €28.7 million in UKEF backed bonding facilities over a 3-year period for the project. James Guthrie, UK head of mid-corporate trade at Barclays, said: “We’re proud to have supported WH Davis on this milestone deal, which marks a major step forward for the business and for UK manufacturing. “By working closely with UKEF, we were able to provide a financing solution that gives WH Davis the flexibility and confidence to deliver on this contract and pursue further growth in Europe. It’s a great example of how strong collaboration between lenders and government-backed finance can unlock global opportunities for ambitious British exporters.”

Growth prospects in technology, AI and innovation fuel confidence as East Midlands private firms target expansion in H2

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Growth prospects in technology, AI and innovation fuel confidence as East Midlands private firms target expansion in H2
More than nine in 10 (93%) private business owners in the East Midlands are confident of delivering growth in 2025, according to KPMG’s mid-year Private Enterprise Barometer check-in. Earlier this year, KPMG unveiled its first-ever Private Enterprise Barometer, an annual survey capturing the perspectives of 1,500 privately owned businesses, including 122 in the East Midlands, from across various industries. Following a challenging six months of economic headwinds, KPMG has revisited businesses to understand how developments in the first half of 2025 may have influenced their outlook. Earlier this year, 89% of private businesses in the East Midlands expressed confidence in their growth prospects for the next 12 months. By the mid-year mark, this sentiment has grown, with confidence levels rising to 93%, reflecting a change in outlook regarding their growth ambitions. Technology continued to dominate as a leading investment priority for East Midlands-based businesses, with 62% identifying areas such as artificial intelligence (AI), cyber security and broader digital transformation as key focuses. While the region trails London and the North East’s commitment to overall technology investment (74%), it nonetheless demonstrates a clear and persistent ambition to remain at the forefront of digital innovation. Diversification is also high on the agenda for private businesses across the East Midlands for the remainder of the year. A third of firms (66%) are looking to introduce new service lines and expand their client offering (down slightly from 72% at the start of 2025). Meanwhile, almost three in five (59%) are targeting entry into new markets – an increase from 52% at the start of 2025. When it comes to external challenges, inflation remains the most pressing concern, cited by 43% of respondents. This is followed by concerns around rising employment costs, which 33% of business leaders flagged as a key risk. The appetite for alternative funding options is also gaining momentum, with 51% of regional businesses now open to private equity investment. This growing interest reflects a broader willingness among firms to explore new sources of capital in support of innovation, growth and long-term resilience. Marc Abrams, Nottingham office senior partner at KPMG UK, said: “It’s encouraging to see such confidence from privately-owned East Midlands businesses at the half-year stage. “From the manufacturing heartlands of Derbyshire and Nottinghamshire to the logistics corridors of Leicestershire, firms are channelling investment into technology, particularly AI, cyber security and digital transformation, to boost productivity and sharpen their competitive edge. “Alongside this, there’s a clear push into new markets and service lines, backed by growing interest in private equity as a route to scale. While inflation and rising employment costs remain challenges, the ambition, adaptability and innovative spirit shown by the East Midlands’ private enterprises will be key in driving the region’s role as a driver of future UK growth.”

New CEO appointed at Leicestershire County Cricket Club

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New CEO appointed at Leicestershire County Cricket Club
Leicestershire County Cricket Club has appointed Emma White as its new CEO, effective from 1st September 2025. Emma White brings a wealth of sporting and management experience to the role, having previously been managing director of rugby side Doncaster Knights and held senior positions in the horse racing industry, including managing Limerick and Sedgefield Racecourses. The appointment follows the announcement earlier this year that current CEO, Sean Jarvis, would be stepping down in the autumn, having successfully delivered a five-year plan that leaves the club well-positioned for future growth and innovation. As planned, Sean will remain with the club in a key consultancy role, in order to support Emma during the transition. New CEO, Emma White, said: “I’m really excited to get started with the club. I’ll be joining equipped with a range of experience and a proven track record in driving success in the sector. Sean has done a wonderful job and the club is in a great position, my aim is to build on this success leveraging the opportunities brought about by The Hundred.” Leicestershire County Cricket chair, John Thorpe said: “With the appointment of Emma White as our new CEO, we’ve identified a leader with the right sporting background to build on the success Sean has delivered. We want to continue this upward trajectory we are on and reinforce the club’s position within the Leicestershire community and the wider cricketing world. I’m really excited for the next chapter.” Sean Jarvis added: “I’m proud to be departing with the club in such a great position for the start of a new era. We now have a team that can compete on all fronts. Things are looking extremely positive for the future, both on and off the pitch. We’re looking to finish this season on a successful note, which is a great way for me to depart and let the new chapter begin. I wish Emma all the success in the world in her new role and I look forward to working with her during the transition period.”

HAIG Legal Group expands into larger Lincoln headquarters

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HAIG Legal Group expands into larger Lincoln headquarters

HAIG Legal Group has moved its operations to Pinnacle House on Doddington Road, Lincoln, consolidating offices previously located on Low Moor Road in Lincoln and Coventry Road in Birmingham. The relocation provides 14,832 sq ft of office space, a 67% increase on the previous footprint.

The move supports the group’s expansion strategy, which includes a planned 17% increase in headcount across its three businesses—Simpler Law, Fidelis Legal Services, and Northwood Banks & Co—raising staff numbers from 135 to more than 155 by the end of 2025.

Property agents Eddisons and Pygott Crone jointly represented the landlord in securing the premises. Pinnacle House offers scale and facilities designed to enhance operational efficiency while accommodating long-term growth.

The relocation positions HAIG Legal Group to strengthen its presence in Lincoln, leveraging the city’s status as a growing hub for professional services.

Lincolnshire architects to revive historic Boston building following purchase

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Lincolnshire architects to revive historic Boston building following purchase
Lincolnshire architects have bought an historic Boston building ready for a £1.1m conservation project. Scorer Hawkins Architects has bought the Grade II* Listed Shodfriars Hall for a six figure sum. It will now carry out work to conserve the building, which has been part of Boston’s townscape since the fifteenth century and is on English Heritage’s Heritage At Risk Register. The sensitive refurbishment is being grant funded by the Towns Fund, overseen by Boston Town Board. Refurbishment work and structural repairs will include improvements to the roof and the timber frame structure, conservation of windows and historic features, and external decoration plus repairs and repointing to the brickwork. Chris Bowen, director at Scorer Hawkins Architects, said: “The purchase and conservation of Shodfriars Hall is part of our ongoing and long-term commitment to the town. “The work we do is about caring for the places that we love and treasure, and this is an opportunity for us to invest in the town and the business within it to continue to deliver heritage-led regeneration. “The grant funding agreement means the refurbishment can now move forward, breathing new life into one of Boston’s best-known buildings.” Plans for the local landmark include providing space for commercial and community uses, plus new employment opportunities. Travis Wood, senior associate commercial property solicitor at MD Law, who acted for the purchasers, said: “It has been a pleasure to be able to work with and support Chris and Jonathan on their project to acquire this building, and that will see the preservation of our property heritage for future generations.”

Derby receives £3.2 million for city regeneration projects

April Lara
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Derby receives £3.2 million for city regeneration projects

Derby will receive £3.2 million in Government funding to continue regeneration initiatives across the city over the next year. The allocation comes through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund and will be administered by the East Midlands Combined County Authority.

The funding will support local projects aimed at business growth, urban renewal, and workforce development. Plans include enabling entrepreneurs to establish and expand operations in vacant city-centre units, improving public spaces, and delivering skills and employability programmes for residents.

An additional £300,000 has been earmarked for inward investment, managed by Marketing Derby to attract new businesses and secure capital investment.

A previous programme supported more than 25 projects, offering grants and advisory support to 168 businesses and generating £53 million in capital investment. The associated employment and skills hub helped 125 individuals enter employment or self-employment and enabled 300 residents to obtain new qualifications.

The funding is part of a broader effort to continue economic growth and regeneration in Derby, building on past investments and initiatives to strengthen local business and community infrastructure.

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