Boots to move forward as private standalone company following Sycamore Partners acquisition

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The Boots Group, the health and beauty retailer and pharmaceutical wholesaler, is now operating as a private standalone company following its acquisition by Sycamore Partners, a private equity firm based in New York.   This announcement coincides with Sycamore’s acquisition of Walgreens Boots Alliance (WBA), The Boots Group’s previous owner. Sycamore is acquiring the business in partnership with Stefano Pessina and his family, who have reinvested 100% of their interests in The Boots Group. The Boots Group will continue to be led by Ornella Barra as CEO and will be registered and headquartered in the UK, with senior leaders continuing in their existing roles. The company will comprise the former international businesses of Walgreens Boots Alliance (WBA), including: Boots UK&I, Boots Opticians, No7 Beauty Company, Boots retail pharmacies in Thailand and international franchise retail operations, together with Farmacias Benavides in Mexico, Alliance Healthcare Germany, and existing retail investments in China. Part of The Boots Group, Boots is an authority in beauty, wellness and healthcare headquartered in Nottingham with 176 years of history in its space. Boots will continue to be led by its experienced management team with Anthony Hemmerdinger serving as SVP and managing director of Boots UK & Ireland. Ornella Barra, CEO of The Boots Group, said: “I am hugely proud of the business that we have created and excited about this new step under new ownership. I would like to thank our colleagues across the world that have built this incredible company, and I am honoured to be leading these businesses on the next stage of our journey. “Sycamore’s retail experience and our strong foundation position The Boots Group to deliver against our strategy of being a leader in our markets and the communities we serve.” Stefan Kaluzny, managing director of Sycamore, said: “The Boots Group is a remarkable institution with deep roots in its communities around the world. We are excited that, as a healthy, successful standalone company with 17 consecutive quarters of like-for-like growth, The Boots Group will now be free to invest and grow more aggressively into the future.” Stefano Pessina said: “The Boots Group enters this next chapter with strength and momentum. Our family has supported the Company over many years, and we are proud to do so now in partnership with Sycamore. As an investor group, we are committed to investing in The Boots Group in order to accelerate its already very successful record of growth.”

Charity Gala Dinner to help transform derelict lace factory into rough sleeper accommodation

A Charity Gala Dinner hosted by Framework this World Homeless Day will raise funds to turn a derelict Nottingham lace factory into supported living accommodation for rough sleepers. The event will take place on 10 October at the Nottingham Belfry Hotel with the region’s business community urged to get behind the charity’s fundraising dinner. Tickets for tables and sponsorship packages are available providing a special opportunity for companies to make a meaningful investment into their local community. The Gala Dinner is aiming to raise £35,000 to plug the funding gap for one of Framework’s latest supported housing developments set to open Spring 2026. Lee House will become home to some of the most vulnerable men in Nottingham offering 20 self-contained one bedroom flats along with round the clock support to help them move towards a better future. Claire Eden, head of fundraising and communications, Framework said: “Many men who become homeless have faced a lifetime of disadvantage. They often fall through the cracks of a support system that isn’t designed to catch them, especially if they are single and without children. “Shame and stigma often contribute to men suffering in silence. Many struggle alone. Without safe spaces or support, their situation becomes critical. By the time they access our services, most men have been rough sleeping for months, sometimes years. They are entrenched in the lifestyle and carry an enormous backlog of trauma. “With the proper housing and support, men can and do recover from homelessness. We want to provide a home where they can find stability, receive wrap-around support for their mental health needs and substance use issues, and find their confidence again.” The Gala Dinner will be hosted by Mark Dennison, well-known for his work at BBC Radio Nottingham, Notts TV and on the tannoy at Nottingham Forest and Trent Bridge. It will be an opportunity to celebrate the progress and achievements made to tackle homelessness across the East Midlands thanks to the support the charity receives from the business community including the event sponsors reflecting both long-standing relationships and new partnerships. Allan Joyce Architects, supporting Framework since 2001, said: “We are extremely proud of our longstanding relationship with Framework, having worked with them since their creation. Together, we have worked to create new and refurbished spaces that provide much-needed accommodation and support services for vulnerable people. “We have witnessed the continual determination of their staff to meet and overcome the challenges faced by homeless people across Nottingham and the East Midlands. Their work to assist those most in need of housing and support has changed countless lives, and to have been part of that journey has been a privilege.” Caroline Pearson, director, Actons Solicitors, Framework supporters since 2007, said: “It’s an honour to play our part in what will be a fantastic event. By working closely with Framework we see the incredible work they do across the region, as well as the issues they face in maintaining their services. “We hope that businesses and other supporters will come together on 10th October to support Framework and specifically the work of Lee House in housing some of the most vulnerable men in Nottingham who are at risk of homelessness.” Vegetology CEO Chris Smith said: “Framework is an amazing charity making a real and lasting difference to people affected by homelessness. It provides essential support, and its approach helps to challenge the stigma that surrounds homelessness. We fully back Framework’s mission to end homelessness and we hope this event can help to raise awareness of its vital work, and raise funds to support its many services.” Gratton Construction, a new corporate partner in 2025, is supporting the Gala through a bespoke raffle package. Kirsty Howard, director of operations, said: “The work Framework does to support people facing homelessness and complex challenges is truly inspiring. At Gratton, we’re honoured to contribute to something that brings real hope and lasting change to people’s lives.” A short film to mark the launch of Framework’s Winter Appeal will be shown, along with fine dining, live entertainment and more fundraising activities including the chance to win some exclusive prizes and a silent auction with a signed Forest shirt from their record-breaking 24/25 season.

Toyota plans large-scale solar expansion at Burnaston plant

Toyota has submitted plans for a 56-acre solar farm at its Burnaston manufacturing site in Derbyshire. The project is expected to generate 16 megawatts of electricity annually, covering approximately 19 per cent of the plant’s energy requirements.

The Burnaston facility, which employs over 2,500 staff, produces around 150,000 vehicles a year. The new solar installation would sit 150 metres south of an existing 4.1-megawatt solar farm that has operated on site since 2011.

The land earmarked for development was last used for agriculture in 2018. Toyota’s application highlights the existing screening around the site and its distance from residential areas as factors that may minimise local objections.

Burnaston forms the core of Toyota’s UK manufacturing operations, with additional facilities at Deeside in North Wales. Since opening in 1992, the site has produced more than five million vehicles and has received over £2.1 billion in investment to date. The plant applies the Toyota Production System and operates as one of Toyota’s global sustainable plants, emphasising low-carbon production and renewable energy integration.

If approved, the solar farm will expand Toyota’s capacity to source clean energy on site and support its commitment to sustainable manufacturing while maintaining local employment.

Muse marks Midlands expansion

Placemakers, Muse, has continued its expansion in the Midlands with four new appointments. Glyn Mutton, development director, joins the business having previously worked for Hill Group and London Land Group. Richard McMullen, senior project manager, joins from Urban & Civic, and Alex D’Angelillo, finance business partner, joins from Mercia Real Estate. Helen Spicer, will also join as a personal assistant from Woodbourne Group. The expansion continues a rapid period of growth since Muse first launched its Midlands office in 2022. The firm is leading the delivery of some of the Midlands’ most important opportunities – including affordable homes, innovation space, workspaces, leisure, and public spaces. ECF – Muse’s partnership with L&G and Homes England – has recently entered into a Development Agreement with West Northamptonshire Council to deliver a sustainable new neighbourhood at Greyfriars. Habiko – Muse’s new partnership with PIC and Homes England – is also investigating potential opportunities across the Midlands region, focussed on the delivery of affordable and sustainable new homes. The team will also support further growth following the establishment of the East Midlands Combined County Authority, working with local partners to investigate potential opportunities.
Maggie Grogan, managing director – Midlands, at Muse, said: “We are full of confidence about the future of the Midlands, as a place to invest and grow. By working together with local authorities and other regional partners, we’ve made real and tangible progress in Solihull, Wolverhampton, and West Northamptonshire.
“The expansion of our team reflects our achievements, but also the scale of future opportunity we see coming forward across the region – including in the East Midlands. We are supported by a positive and proactive public sector which wants to make things happen. “Our delivery partners at ECF and Habiko are also convinced of the potential of this region, and together we can deliver the new homes, jobs, leisure, and public spaces our communities need.”

Shortlist revealed for the East Midlands Bricks Awards 2025

Business Link can now reveal the shortlist for this year’s highly anticipated East Midlands Bricks Awards – THE event for Property & Construction in 2025. Showcasing the outstanding work of those behind the changing landscape of our region, the Bricks Awards features a diverse range of categories and a glittering awards ceremony that will host many of the region’s industry leaders. This event is also an ideal opportunity to applaud and connect with the very best in the business. The 10th annual awards ceremony announcing the winners will take place on Thursday 2nd October, at the famous Trent Bridge Cricket Ground.

Book your place at the awards now to avoid disappointment!

The event will begin at 4:30pm and continue until 7:30pm, with plenty of time for networking and celebrating. The occasion will additionally feature Councillor Nadine Peatfield – Leader of Derby City Council, Cabinet Member for City Centre, Regeneration, Strategy and Policy, and Deputy Mayor of the East Midlands as keynote speaker.

Shortlist for the East Midlands Bricks Awards 2025

Architects of the Year – sponsored by Roy Geddes Bricks Church Lukas Morrison Design Pelham Architects Contractor of the Year – sponsored by EMEC Ecology Goodward Construction Miller Knight Winvic Construction Developer of the Year – sponsored by Devello Clowes Developments St James Securities Vistry East Midlands Most Active Agent – sponsored by Knapton Wright Salloway Property Consultants OMEETO Rigby & Co Deal of the Year – sponsored by Frank Key Built-to-rent deal at next phase of Derby Castleward regeneration – Lovell, Placefirst Vaillant Live deal – St James Securities Top Wighay deal – Vistry East Midlands Residential Development of the Year – sponsored by Build Manager Abbey Central – Stagfield Group & Peveril Homes Riber Castle – StudioTwenty Prospect Place – TUNE Commercial Development of the Year – sponsored by Global HSE Group Sherwood Observatory – G F Tomlinson Canopy, Leicester – Henry Brothers Homefield College SEND Building – Scope Construction Vaillant Live – St James Securities Sustainable Development of the Year – sponsored by Viridis Evo Corby – PBBE Corby BV, PineBridge Rykneld Homes North East Derbyshire retrofit – Coactivation Nottingham College Construction Skills Centre (CSC) and The Gateway – G F Tomlinson Abbey Central – Stagfield Group & Peveril Homes Excellence in Design – sponsored by Konsileo Loughborough University DigiLabs Teaching Space – APSS Sutton on Sea Colonnade and Pleasure Gardens – G F Tomlinson Vaillant Live – St James Securities Responsible Business – sponsored by Wright Vigar Scope Construction G F Tomlinson Morrison Design The Overall Winner, sponsored by SEV, will also be announced at the ceremony, who will be awarded a grand prize of a year of marketing/publicity with Business Link worth £20,000, with the opportunity to split or gift the marketing to a charity of their choice.

The East Midlands Bricks Awards 2025

What: The East Midlands Bricks Awards 2025 When: Thursday 2nd October (4.30pm – 7.30pm) Where: Derek Randall Suite, Trent Bridge Cricket Ground, Nottingham. Keynote speaker: Councillor Nadine Peatfield – Leader of Derby City Council, Cabinet Member for City Centre, Regeneration, Strategy and Policy, and Deputy Mayor of the East Midlands Tickets: Available here Dress code: Standard business attire Thanks to our sponsors:                                                                              

To be held at:

East Midlands takes control of adult skills funding

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The East Midlands will manage £53 million in Adult Skills Funding locally from August 2025, shifting decision-making from central government to the Mayor of the East Midlands and local authorities. The funding covers programmes including the Adult Skills Fund and Free Courses for Jobs, aimed at adults aged 19 and over.

Local authorities and the East Midlands Combined County Authority will determine how the money is allocated, focusing on training, apprenticeships, and development opportunities that align with regional labour market needs. Businesses, colleges, independent learning providers, and voluntary organisations will play a key role in shaping delivery.

Consultations and focus groups over the past year have informed the approach, ensuring funding addresses skills gaps, supports workforce development, and targets communities and sectors that need it most.

The move is designed to create a more responsive, locally tailored skills system, linking training directly to employment opportunities and the economic priorities of the East Midlands.

Sodexo secures eight-year extension at Chesterfield Royal Hospital

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Sodexo Health & Care has been awarded an eight-year extension to its patient dining contract with Chesterfield Royal Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, taking the partnership to 33 years. The new contract, valued at £24.8 million, commenced on 1 April 2025 and follows a competitive tender process.

The company will continue providing a mix of in-house prepared meals and Apetito products, alongside an extensive range of special diets accommodating cultural, religious, and medical requirements. Meals are prepared in the hospital’s central production kitchen, transported via specialist regeneration trolleys, and served by Derbyshire Support and Facilities Services (DSFS) staff.

The refreshed inpatient menu, launched in May, introduces two specialised ranges. A finger food selection supports patients with dementia by enabling independent eating, while a high-energy mini meal range addresses reduced appetites and calorie-dense requirements for patients needing nutritional support.

Patient Service Assistants are undertaking training and sampling sessions to ensure the consistent handling and serving of the new meals. The extended agreement reinforces the hospital’s focus on providing nutritious, tailored food to support patient recovery, wellbeing, and overall dining experience.

Bidding opens to find operator for multi-million pound tech centre

Bidding has opened to find an operator for the multi-million pound centrepiece of Ashfield’s Innovation and Technology Park. Ashfield District Council (ADC) has secured £21.5m from the Towns Fund programme to build the Automated Distribution & Manufacturing Centre (ADMC) on a site in Kirkby in Ashfield. The 3,000 square metre building will become a centre of excellence for automation. It will support both the specialist manufacturing and distribution/fulfilment sectors, including small and medium sized enterprises. The building is estimated to be completed in March 2027. Now, a tendering process has opened to find a contractor who will be responsible for delivering ADC’s vision for the centre. Preparatory works began on site earlier in the summer to lay the groundwork for construction of the building. Before construction of the building can commence, a new junction creating access to the site off Low Moor Road will be required along with other highways improvements. These are expected to start in the coming weeks and will be complete early next year. Council leader, Cllr Jason Zadrozny said: “I’m delighted to see we have now begun the tendering process for the operator for the ADMC. This is a fabulous opportunity to partner with us and others in helping fulfil our vision for regenerating Ashfield’s economy. “We believe the ADMC will become a magnet for businesses who recognise the need to embrace new technology to drive growth and improve.” The ADMC will provide independent, expert guidance and access to state-of-the-art technology and skills development. The ADMC will also offer space for networking, events, and collaboration. The deadline for submissions is 13 October 2025 and a decision will be made before the end of the year. The successful bid will lead to a contract of up to 15 years.

East Midlands Airport fuels growth in regional exports

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East Midlands Airport is driving expansion in the Midlands’ international trade through its growing cargo operations. More than half of regional exporters increased sales in the second quarter of this financial year, with East Midlands-based companies ranking second nationally for entering new markets. Recent trade data shows strong growth in sales to the US and rising demand for exports to China.

The airport handled over 100,000 tonnes of cargo between May and July, up 17.4% on the same period last year. This growth exceeded Heathrow, where cargo volumes carried in passenger aircraft have remained largely flat. East Midlands specialises in cargo-only flights, operating predominantly overnight, which reduces delays caused by passenger schedules. Its central location adjacent to the M1 provides access to 90% of the UK population within four hours, enhancing efficiency for freight carriers.

Major logistics firms, including DHL, UPS, and FedEx, have established UK operations at East Midlands, while four new cargo airlines have launched services since May. Several of these airlines operate routes to China, reflecting the growing demand from exporters targeting the Asian market.

To support rising cargo volumes, the airport has reconfigured aprons to accommodate additional wide-bodied aircraft. Long-term plans include four runway-side plots for redevelopment, offering 122,000m² of warehouse space, new taxiways, and stands for up to 18 aircraft. Forecasts anticipate a 54% increase in express freight over the next two decades, potentially creating more than 20,000 jobs and contributing nearly £4 billion to the economy.

Two sites hold Freeport tax status, and a third is designated for a logistics and advanced manufacturing park led by Prologis, expected to unlock £1bn in investment. These developments position East Midlands Airport as a strategic hub supporting regional exports, advanced manufacturing, and broader economic growth.

Acquisition sees Frasers Group enter leisure market

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Frasers Group has acquired a minority investment in UK leisure, retail, and hospitality experts, We Do Play. The investment marks Frasers Group’s debut into the leisure market. We Do Play is UK-headquartered specialist operator of experience-led brands including Flip Out, Activate, Putt Putt Social and Rumble Rooms. Building on the success of openings in London and Newcastle, Frasers plans to launch more than 40 Activate locations nationwide in the coming years. Frasers Group chief acquisition officer, James France said: “Today’s announcement marks a significant milestone in our strategy to diversify and create more dynamic consumer and leisure experiences. “We Do Play’s innovative brands align perfectly with our vision for a modern, experience-led consumer ecosystem. Together, we look forward to bringing these brands to more communities nationwide.” Rich Beese, CEO of We Do Play, added: “We’re incredibly proud to partner with Frasers Group as we enter this next phase. “Our mission has always been to create memorable, energy-filled experiences that bring people together — and with Frasers’ backing, we’re now able to scale that vision faster and further. This partnership gives us the platform to innovate, expand our footprint, and elevate leisure across the UK and beyond.”