Shawpak secures £500,000 funding to expand medical packaging operations

April Lara
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Shawpak secures £500,000 funding to expand medical packaging operations

Shawpak, a Derby-based manufacturer of specialist packaging machinery for the medical sector, has secured £500,000 in funding through the Midlands Engine Investment Fund II (MEIF II).

Founded in 2013, Shawpak develops compact thermoforming machines that produce components for radiotherapy masks, hospital beds, MRI machines, and other medical devices. Its rotary thermoforming technology reduces floor space, speeds up tool changes, and minimises material waste, supporting efficiency and operational continuity for global clients.

Shawpak became independent following the sale of Riverside Medical Packaging in January 2024. The company holds ISO 9001 certification, and its electrical engineers are accredited to design and manufacture electrical panels under UL 508A standards. Shawpak operates a worldwide spares and service network from its Derby base, supporting several major medical device manufacturers.

The MEIF II funding will enable the company to move to a larger, modern facility, expand production capacity, accommodate bigger machines, and scale service and spares operations. CEO David Shaw said: “This investment marks an exciting new chapter for Shawpak. With the support of Maven and the Midlands Engine Investment Fund II, we can expand into a facility that will allow us to increase capacity, deliver even greater innovation, and continue supporting our customers worldwide.”

The deal was introduced to Maven by Copper Swan advisers Ben Lavin and Mark Jones. MEIF II – Debt Finance East and South East Midlands provides business loans from £100,000 to £2 million and has previously backed companies across construction, DeepTech, logistics, and commercial services.

Work completes at 120-home scheme in Gedling

Tess Egginton
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Work completes at 120-home scheme in Gedling
Construction work has completed at a new housing development delivering 120 new homes in Gedling. Miller Homes has completed its work on the Bonington Grange development, built on a triangular parcel of land which links Burton Road, Linden Grove, and the newly-built Colwick Loop Road. The developer has sold all its private homes and handed over the final sets of keys to new occupants of the properties. As part of the work on the site, Derby-based Miller Homes East Midlands also provided two separate play areas within the development’s public open space, in accordance with the planning permission for the housing scheme. The housing firm has recently achieved further planning approval on a development of homes to be brought to Bramcote, following the completion of the Gedling scheme. Emma Weston, sales director of Miller Homes East Midlands, said: “We are very proud to have completed work at Bonington Grange and leave behind a new community of homeowners in Gedling. “The development formed a key part of wider growth and infrastructure of the area, including improved transport links and new school facilities, both of which will be and already is proving to be extremely helpful to our residents at Bonington Grange. “As we look fondly back on completed, successful projects we have delivered, our focus is always moving forward to the next one, which in this case is our new Bramcote Hills Rise development which will be coming soon for Nottinghamshire home buyers to explore. “We are equally as confident and excited by the prospect of what will be delivered at Bramcote Hills Rise, once more in support of the wider development of another Nottinghamshire borough.” Miller Homes’ latest scheme, to be delivered in Bramcote, is part of a wider planning agreement which will see a new purpose-built secondary school provided as well as 470 new homes, built between Miller Homes and St Modwen Homes. The 40-acre land parcel acquired by the developers from Nottinghamshire County Council is located off Coventry Lane in Bramcote, with the proceeds of the land sale being directly attributed to the build of the proposed new school facility.

Up to 125 jobs cut at North Lincolnshire refinery

April Lara
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Up to 125 jobs cut at North Lincolnshire refinery

Lindsey Oil Refinery in North Lincolnshire is set to reduce its workforce by up to 125 positions following the collapse of owner Prax Group and the appointment of administrators. The refinery employs approximately 420 staff and 500 contractors. Around 255 employees are expected to remain on site.

Attempts to secure a buyer to maintain full operations have been unsuccessful, despite at least two bids being submitted to operate the refinery with its complete workforce. The site remains operational and meets health and safety standards, with administrators prioritising both employee welfare and ongoing sale efforts.

The Insolvency Service confirmed that employees affected by redundancies will have access to statutory redundancy support. An investigation into the financial conduct of Prax Group and its parent company, State Oil, is underway. Union representatives have indicated potential support to help the refinery continue operations, though the outcome is not yet certain.

Businesses urge protection from tax rises ahead of Autumn Budget

April Lara
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Businesses urge protection from tax rises ahead of Autumn Budget

East Midlands firms are calling for safeguards against further tax increases as the Autumn Budget approaches. Concerns focus on corporate taxation and rising operational costs following recent increases in employer National Insurance contributions and the national living wage.

Director of Policy and Insight Richard Blackmore said: “While the Chancellor spoke of investment in various projects – and I welcome pledges to bring an end to youth unemployment and recent transport spending announced for the East Midlands with the Trent Arc – firms need reassurance they are not going to be hit with tax hikes again at the Autumn Budget. Government has already asked a lot of business, it cannot keep doing so under the guise of economic growth.”

Local business leaders emphasise that inflation and corporate taxes remain the top pressures on companies in the region. Recent government spending on infrastructure and employment initiatives has been welcomed, but firms stress that new financial demands must not offset support measures. Stability in tax policy is seen as essential to maintain confidence and investment.

Konsileo named Commercial Lines Broker of the Year at the Insurance Broker Awards 2025

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Konsileo named Commercial Lines Broker of the Year at the Insurance Broker Awards 2025
Konsileo has been named Commercial Lines Broker of the Year at the Insurance Broker Awards 2025. This recognition is a testament to the passion and professionalism of the firm’s brokers, who put their clients first and thrive within a model that gives them both autonomy and support. Konsileo was selected based on its “exceptional use of technology, processes, and talent to enhance the client experience and raise industry standards.” With its in-house development team, Konsileo is able to continuously improve internal systems to reflect the changing landscape of insurance without ever sacrificing quality. Konsileo’s AI integration cuts down on brokers’ administrative workload to get back to what they do best – protecting their clients properly. Konsileo has also received the ‘Excellence in AI’ award at the British Insurance Technology Awards, an accolade that highlights the firm’s commitment to harnessing AI to transform the insurance industry. Collaboration remains central to Konsileo’s operating model. Brokers embrace an adult-to-adult approach across everything, from learning platforms to compliance processes and wider business practices. The firm’s Community Hubs, Practice Groups, and structured coaching framework provide a comprehensive support network, ensuring that a remote-first workforce remains fully engaged, connected, and equipped to deliver exceptional client service. Konsileo’s talent acquisition team selects new colleagues through a deep understanding of what success looks like at Konsileo. The self-management style provides the space in which independence and creativity can thrive, and Konsileo provides the tools with which brokers can refine their entrepreneurial mindset and skills within a collectivist culture. Konsileo’s success is driven by its people, both the clients it serves and the brokers it supports. If you are wanting better from your insurance, get in touch with Konsileo.

New president for Nottingham Rugby Club

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New president for Nottingham Rugby Club
Nottingham Rugby has appointed John Watson as the club’s new president, ahead of the 2025/26 season. A former main board director at Boots the Chemists in Nottingham, John has a long-standing association with the club, dating back to the amateur days at Ireland Avenue. His passion for the game and deep-rooted connection to Nottingham Rugby have seen him remain a loyal supporter throughout the club’s evolution into the professional era. As a regular face at both Meadow Lane and Lady Bay over the years, John has continued to support the team home and away, often alongside his wife, Val. Reflecting on his early involvement with the club, he recalls fond memories of working with and supporting some of Nottingham’s most iconic players, including Brian Moore, Gary Rees, Rob Andrew, Simon Hodgkinson and Chris Gray. John brings with him to this new position a unique blend of commercial experience and rugby knowledge that the club believes will be invaluable in the seasons ahead. Chairman of Nottingham Rugby, Alistair Bow, said: “John and his wife Val have been involved at our great club for many years, so I am delighted that he has accepted our offer to become President. He has a great mix of rugby and business knowledge, so I know he will contribute hugely in the coming seasons. “I will also take this opportunity to thank our outgoing President, Brian Hall, who served for three seasons and has worked tirelessly to promote the club and all that we stand for.” Speaking of his new role, John Watson said: “I am delighted to accept the role of President of this historic club. We have seen lots of changes over the years, but the Archers march on and play an attractive brand of rugby and are always competitive on the pitch, which is exciting to watch.” In addition to John’s appointment, the club has also welcomed long-time supporters Mark Shelton and Louise Cupitt as vice presidents. Louise will be the first-ever female vice president in the club’s nearly 150-year history. Their new ambassadorial roles will see them supporting the matchday experience at Lady Bay, welcoming visiting teams and club officials, and representing Nottingham Rugby at away fixtures throughout the season. Both Louise and Mark have been huge supporters of the club over many years, as well as being serious supporters of England’s rugby squad. The pair are regular attendees at the games and firm advocates for Nottingham Rugby.

East Midlands creative businesses secure funding to scale innovation

April Lara
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East Midlands creative businesses secure funding to scale innovation

More than 100 micro, small, and medium-sized creative enterprises across twelve UK regions are sharing £8 million in grants through the Create Growth Programme. Funding ranges from £20,000 to £140,000 and is designed to help high-growth businesses commercialise ideas, access industry expertise, and attract private investment to expand operations.

Grants will support companies in sectors including gaming, music, marketing, animation, and design. In the East Midlands, firms based in Leicestershire, Derbyshire, and Greater Lincolnshire, as well as Nottingham and Nottinghamshire, are among the recipients. The funding will enable these businesses to develop new products, scale their teams, and benefit from one-to-one mentoring with industry professionals.

Other regions benefiting include Greater Manchester, Norfolk, Suffolk, and Cambridgeshire, North East England, West of England, Devon and Cornwall, South East, Hull and East Yorkshire, West Midlands, West Yorkshire, and Hertfordshire.

The programme aims to strengthen local creative ecosystems, turning today’s growing enterprises into tomorrow’s leaders by providing the financial support, knowledge, and connections needed to accelerate growth.

East Midlands business confidence falls in September

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East Midlands business confidence falls in September
Business confidence in the East Midlands fell nine points during September to 34%, according to the latest Business Barometer from Lloyds. Companies in the East Midlands reported lower confidence in their own business prospects month-on-month, down five points at 42%. When taken alongside their optimism in the economy, down 14 points to 26%, this gives a headline confidence reading of 34% (vs. 43% in August). Looking ahead to the next six months, East Midlands businesses identified their top target areas for growth as investing in their team (41%), for example through training, introducing new technology (40%) and evolving their offering, for example by introducing new products or services (39%). The Business Barometer, which surveys 1,200 businesses monthly and which has been running since 2002, provides early signals about UK economic trends both regionally and nationwide. National picture Overall, UK business confidence fell 12 points in September to 42%. Firms’ confidence in their own trading prospects fell 12 points to 51%, and their optimism in the wider economy fell 11 points to 33%. The North East was the most confident UK nation or region in September, climbing 13 points to 68%, followed by London (57%). Sector insights Firms across manufacturing, construction, retail and services all saw confidence fall this month. The biggest change was in manufacturing with a decline of 31 points to 31%, a two-year low. Retail sentiment fell 17 points to 40%, its lowest level in four months. Similarly, confidence in the service sector fell six points to 47%, the lowest reading since April. Construction continued to decline for the fourth consecutive month, dropping 5 points to 35%. Dave Atkinson, regional director for the East Midlands, said: “Despite this month’s results, it’s encouraging to see East Midlands businesses continue to identify new areas for growth. “Investment in teams and technology, in particular, can pay long-term dividends – making firms even more resilient and boosting their ability to capitalise on new opportunities as they arise. We’ll continue to be supporting local businesses as they take their next steps.”

Ivygrove Developments marks first major transaction at Looms Business Park

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Ivygrove Developments marks first major transaction at Looms Business Park
Ivygrove Developments is marking a key milestone with the first major transaction at Looms Business Park, Spondon. It sees the beginning of a formal partnership with Whitehouse Construction. The two companies have entered into a design and build agreement for a bespoke headquarters facility developed through close collaboration between their respective technical teams. Whitehouse Construction, a civil engineering firm founded in 1977, will relocate its operations to a newly designed 25,000 sq ft headquarters at the seven-acre Looms site. The purpose-built facility, developed in partnership with Ivygrove, will consolidate Whitehouse’s business streams (civil engineering, flood door manufacture and property flood resilience testing) under one roof, enhancing operational efficiency and providing a modern workspace for its growing team. The new headquarters will occupy nearly two acres and include 8,000 sq ft of office space, a large compound for vehicles and plant, and parking for over 50 cars. A planning application is scheduled for submission to Derby City Council in early October, with construction expected to begin following approval. Phase 2 of the Looms development will comprise 80,000 sq ft of small and medium-sized industrial units, available to let or for sale. Ivygrove reports strong early interest, with initial units anticipated to be ready by late 2026. Whitehouse’s chair, Jo Ewart-Sear, said: “Our business has been rooted in Derbyshire for close to 50 years. Partnering with Ivygrove to develop a space that reflects our heritage and supports our future growth is a natural step. Looms Business Park offers unrivalled connectivity and a purposeful environment for our people, equipment, and clients to thrive.” Ivygrove Developments and Whitehouse Construction share a longstanding professional relationship. “Whitehouse are an excellent company to work with,” said John Blount, chairman of Ivygrove Developments. “We’re proud to be working together once again on such a significant project.” Stephen Salloway of Salloway Property Consultants emphasised the strategic location: “Looms Business Park offers exceptional access to the UK’s major road network via the A52, A50, and M1—making it one of the most logistically advantageous sites in Derby.” Nick Blount, director at Ivygrove, concluded: “This is just the beginning. We’re excited to bring Looms Business Park to life and support industrial growth across the city.”

Jaguar Land Rover begins phased restart of manufacturing operations

April Lara
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Jaguar Land Rover begins phased restart of manufacturing operations

Jaguar Land Rover has announced the partial resumption of its manufacturing activities following a planned, controlled pause. Selected sections of production will restart in the coming days as part of the company’s broader recovery strategy.

The business is collaborating closely with cybersecurity experts, the UK National Cyber Security Centre, and law enforcement to ensure operations resume securely. Work on stabilising systems and processes remains ongoing to safeguard production and supply chain continuity.

The company continues to provide updates to employees, retailers, and suppliers as recovery progresses, signalling a structured approach to returning to full-scale vehicle manufacturing.

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