World first as Nottingham car marketplace helps sell first Ariel Atom supercar with Bitcoin

Tess Egginton
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World first as Nottingham car marketplace helps sell first Ariel Atom supercar with Bitcoin

AutoCoinCars, the Nottingham-headquartered car marketplace that allows dealerships to advertise their cars for sale to cryptocurrency users, is celebrating after the first ever sale of an Ariel Atom in Bitcoin.

The deal for the iconic Ariel Atom 3.5R model was sealed by one of its partner dealerships, Supercar Clinic on Halliwell Road, Bolton, which completed the sale of the supercar to an undisclosed client in a deal worth £64,995 (circa 3.6 Bitcoin at the time).

Luke Willmott, co-founder and COO of AutoCoinCars, which has over 850 dealerships using its platform, is also the owner of Castle Gym which recently announced it has been forced to close.

Luke says: “There’s no secret that business has been challenging of late with Castle Gym and that has taken a huge amount of my resources, both financial, mental and emotional but that’s the life of an entrepreneur.

“Thankfully, I have diverse business interests and a fantastic team behind me and with AutoCoinCars we are constantly involved in new developments. I am still working hard behind the scenes on something with regards to Castle Gym but in the meantime, to have a world first with such an iconic UK brand is pretty awesome.

“We now have over 850 dealerships on our platform as more and more people seek the flexibility of buying with cryptocurrency. There has often been criticism of cryptocurrency in that it is not tangible. However, we can now help people to unlock the potential of their portfolio by converting their Bitcoin into physical assets and we’re delighted to be part of this world first.”

New home for water industry experts at Friar Gate Studios

Tess Egginton
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New home for water industry experts at Friar Gate Studios
Water industry experts, Invenio Systems, have relocated to Friar Gate Studios, part of the Connect Derby managed workspace scheme. The company was founded in 2015 by Stephen Tooms and Stuart Trow to provide innovative solutions to the water industry. Invenio Systems’ main focus is on developing new techniques to collect and analyse data, which will provide better information on which to make investment decisions, and to guide routine operations. Since being acquired by Halma in 2019, the company has grown rapidly and now operates offices in Cwmbran, Washington, Tyne and Wear and Newport. The move to Friar Gate Studios was to enable expansion of the Data Science team and centralisation of some operational support activities. It is designed to support the rapid growth in services and systems offered to water companies across the UK. Commenting on the move to Friar Gate Studios, Keith Hilson, director of Invenio Systems, said: “We are very happy with our new office space at Friar Gate Studios, which is perfect for our needs. The facilities are great, especially the large meeting rooms which we use regularly to meet and plan with clients. “The Connect Derby staff are always on hand to help with any queries and issues we have and have made us feel at home here. “Being located in the Midlands will enable us to service our clients quicker and more efficiently, which will improve the level of service we provide.” Ann Bhatti, head of Connect Derby, added: “We are delighted to welcome Stephen, Stuart, and their team to our flagship building at Friar Gate Studios. Their innovative business is a great addition to the range of creative and non-creative businesses already based here. “Friar Gate Studios’ city centre location is proving increasingly popular with businesses looking for a flexible working environment and we are now proud to boast a dynamic and diverse community of new and established businesses.”

Global logistics firm takes 45,000 sq ft unit in Castle Donington

Tess Egginton
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Global logistics firm takes 45,000 sq ft unit in Castle Donington
On behalf of Urban Logistics REIT Plc, M1 Agency LLP in conjunction with joint agents FHP Property Consultants have let a speculatively built 45,000 sq ft unit at Willow Farm Industrial Estate, Castle Donington. The 45,000 sq ft distribution unit has been let to Nippon Express, one of the top five global logistics services providers. The letting was completed by Toby Wilson of M1 Agency LLP who said: “It was a pleasure to deal with Nippon Express here and find them a building that complemented the company’s expansion strategy and continue their presence at Castle Donington, where they have been situated for the last 15 years. Their investment in the building will no doubt create success and new jobs in the region.” John Barker, head of development at Urban Logistics REIT Plc, said: “The funding venture with Wilson Bowden Developments has worked well and they have completed the buildings to a high standard. “The East Midlands element of the portfolio was recently completed and this unit has let quickly which is a testimony to the location, demand for industrial space in the area and quality of the build.” Fred Brustal, asset manager at Urban Logistics REIT Plc, added: “We’re pleased to welcome Nippon Express to the ULR portfolio and look forward to working with them going forward.”

Blueprint Interiors strengthens team with three new appointments

Tess Egginton
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Blueprint Interiors strengthens team with three new appointments
Workplace consultants and commercial office fit-out specialists Blueprint Interiors has strengthened its support team following the appointment of two apprentices and a quantity surveying graduate. Joining the firm are pre-construction assistant, Kwaku Kwarteng, accounts apprentice Muhammad Anas, and project administrator apprentice, Francesca Curry. The appointments are part of Blueprint Interiors’ commitment to supporting the education of young people and preparing them for their chosen career. For many years, the company has sponsored awards that promote education in business, and also act as mentors and enterprise advisers within local schools. Commenting on the new appointments, Rachel Biddells, operations director, said: “We recognise the benefits that come from investing in young talent. They have already had a huge impact by bringing in new ideas and approaches and this insight helps to ensure we remain at the forefront of understanding the needs of future generations in the workplace.” She added: “As we continue to secure better and bigger projects our clients have been particularly interested in our workplace consultancy expertise during the feasibility stages as this insight helps them understand what their offices need to provide.” Kwaku, who is from Derby, has a Bachelor of Science with Honours Quantity Surveying from University Of Derby. He also has a Construction and the Built Environment Level 3 from New College Nottingham. In his new role help the commercial team collate costings as well as scope of work for various projects. Kwaku said: “I  was looking for my first breakthrough role with an employer in the built environment. I feel really lucky to have the opportunity to earn my stripes as part of a growing and expanding company.” Muhammad is from Burton on Trent and he already has a distinction Btec Business. His day-to-day role will include supporting the accounts team and other finance and administrative duties. His finance apprenticeship was arranged by EMA Training. Muhammad said: “Having visited the offices for the first time, I instantly wanted to be a part of such a friendly and welcoming environment. The office is very vibrant and you are never allocated to one specific desk. This creates a relaxed working environment that I have not experienced before. It was the key and deciding factor as to why chose to join the company.” Francesca is from Swadlincote and, as junior project administrator, will study for a Level 3 Business Administration Apprenticeship through DBC training. In her new role Francesca will provide admin support and deliver a high quality after care service to clients. She said: “The culture is very positive and cheerful, and overall a nice place to work. Having attended my interview and done my research, it was definitely a place where I could see myself enjoying work and hopefully progressing further.” Blueprint Interiors recently celebrated its 21st company anniversary and so far this year has completed a number of high profile projects for clients including Worldline in Beeston, Futures Housing Group at Castle Donington, Yu Energy in Leicester, new offices for Roythorne Solicitors in Birmingham and a BUPA healthcare centre in Cheshire on behalf of Enigma Wellness.

Plans to convert Nottingham’s British Waterways Building into flats approved

Tess Egginton
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Plans to convert Nottingham’s British Waterways Building into flats approved
Plans to transform the British Waterways Building in Nottingham into a residential scheme have been approved. H2O Urban, a joint partnership between The Canal and River Trust (current owners of the building) and specialist developer bloc Ltd, are behind the proposals. The grade 2 listed building would be converted to provide 95 residential units (12 studios, 42 one bedroom apartments and 41 two bedroom apartments) including construction of a rooftop extension providing 8 apartments. The building, constructed in 1919 as a canal transit warehouse for the Trent Navigation Company, is currently partially occupied by a comedy club (Glee), however the lease for the space is coming to an end and will not be renewed. The other areas of lower floors were previously occupied by a pub and the upper floors by a gym but are all currently empty. A design statement says: “The proposal to convert the listed British Waterways building into a residential apartment scheme will provide a viable repurposing of this prominent landmark to protect its long-term future.”

Renovations begin at Sutton’s old Yorkshire Bank

Tess Egginton
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Renovations begin at Sutton’s old Yorkshire Bank
The next project to breathe new life into Sutton has begun as the renovation works have started in the dilapidated former Yorkshire Bank on Low Street, Sutton. The building, located in Sutton town centre, is being transformed to create two new commercial units on the ground floor, and two new apartments on the first floor, as part of the £6.27m of Future High Streets Fund. The works are expected to be completed in spring 2023. The refurbishment of the former bank will bring vibrancy back into the long-term derelict part of Sutton, whilst creating good quality homes in the town centre. The building will meet modern energy efficiency standards to ensure lower bills for tenants and will contribute to the Council’s net zero ambition. Cllr Matthew Relf, executive lead member for regeneration and corporate transformation, said: “This project on Low Street is just one of the dozens coming to Sutton that will transform the town centre. “Residents may have already seen clearance works starting at Fox Street which will be become a vibrant pop-up food area and car park linking Asda and Portland Square. We released the initial plans for Portland Square’s redevelopment a few months ago and the final plans are now being drawn up. “Ashfield District Council worked hard to secure this funding so we are working even harder to ensure we make the most of this once in a lifetime opportunity for our residents.”

Get ready to network at the East Midlands Expo

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Get ready to network at the East Midlands Expo
Taking place on Monday 14 November 2022, forge new contacts at the East Midlands Expo, an established event of over 20 years! The free to attend expo, for which Business Link is a proud partner, is well targeted and aimed at the construction, property, business, investment, finance, professional services and related B2B markets. Held at the East Midlands Conference Centre, Nottingham, the day will begin with exhibitor breakfast networking, with the exhibition opening to attendees at 9am, and a seminar taking place between 10:45am and noon. A special networking lunch (for which tickets can be purchased here) will then take place between 12:15pm and 2:15pm, and the exhibition will close at 3:30pm.

For more information on exhibiting at the event click here.

To register to attend the event for free click here.

To secure tickets for the networking lunch click here.

From property agents to developers, architects, contractors, investors, PR firms, and more, see the list of current exhibitors here.

Law firm launches new business immigration service to help employers

Michael Fisher
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Law firm launches new business immigration service to help employers
A leading UK law firm has launched a new service to help organisations deal with complex immigration-related employment issues. Geldards, which has offices in Derby and Nottingham, has set up its Business Immigration Team following changes to the law and increased demand from clients. The team will be based within Geldards’ Tier 1 ranked Employment Team, at its offices in the East Midlands and Wales. It will help businesses, charities and public sector organisations navigate the new rules and processes involved in employing people from overseas. Joga Singh, a partner at Geldards who heads the new team, said: “Over the past year we have noticed an increase in the number of requests from our clients for advice on business immigration issues. “Immigration rules and processes have changed, and organisations in many sectors of the economy have found it’s no longer as straightforward as it used to be to hire overseas workers. “There’s also been an increase in enforcement of both criminal and civil penalties for employers who employ individuals without the requisite right to work in the UK. “Fines can be as high as £20,000 for each illegal worker, which has led to greater scrutiny of business immigration issues and anxiety among our clients.” Over the last few months there has been a steady stream of headlines about staff shortages in various parts of the UK economy. Certain sectors, such as farming, hospitality, care and transport, have struggled to recruit and retain enough people with the right skills. But many organisations that once recruited overseas workers to fill the gaps are uncertain about the new immigration rules.

Best Golf Day by Par raises £5k for Burton charities

Michael Fisher
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Best Golf Day by Par raises £5k for Burton charities
Burton-based pitched roof tile manufacturer, Russell Roof Tiles (RRT) hosted another successful annual Golf Day to raise vital funds to reach the goal of £50,000 for their charity initiative, Give 4 Good. The highly anticipated Golf Day tournament took place at one of Derbyshire’s finest golf courses, Horsley Lodge. The golf club has been ranked in the top 5 best courses in the East Midlands and was one of many charity Golf Days carried out by the team to raise funds for local charities, including Burton and District Mind, YMCA and Burton Albion Community Trust. Almost 80 players attended the huge event, including company employees, and individuals that work with RRT. The event raised £5,000, totalling the Give 4 Good pot up to over £35,000. Russell Roof Tiles launched ‘Give 4 Good’. A project in celebration of 10 years of Russell Roof Tiles’ independence, which donates money to good causes in the local area. This year they are aiming to raise a total of £50,000. The teams were divided into RRT England vs RRT Rest of The World. The teams battled it out for the prestigious RRT Ryder Cup Trophy, along with extra prizes for nearest the pin, nearest the pin in two and best scoring pair. RRT Rest of the World won the tournament in a close battle, alongside Ben Jackson and Matt Finnie from Hodgkinson Builders who picked up the best scoring pair prize. Joe Marler and Adam O’Donnell from Trentside Cricket Club and Andrew Jones of Absolute Roofing were the other competition winners on the day. RRT were delighted to welcome former Nottingham Forest and Derby County player, Henry Newton, who captained the Rest of the World team on the day and was presented the coveted RRT Ryder Cup trophy by Managing Director, Andrew Hayward. The day was a great success for everyone involved. Organiser of the day, Ross Hayward, Area Sales Manager at Russell Roof Tiles said: “I would like to thank all the companies who came along supported us on the day and to those that donated. It all helps towards raising our goal of £50,000 for our Give 4 Good charity. This year, the Golf Day was a great way of being able to raise further funds and add to the pot for our chosen charities.” Russell Roof Tiles has a series of events scheduled in 2022 to raise its £50,000 target.  Recipients of the fundraising initiative include local causes such as Hillfield Animal Home, Burton YMCA, Burton & District Mind – many of which have been nominated by the staff. The company has invested in charity support over the years, since 2015, Russell Roof Tiles has supported 33 different charities and causes local to its Burton and Lochmaben (Scotland) sites. It has hosted 39 fundraising events, that have seen staff dance, hike, run, cook, and even slim their way to raise cash.  Over the years its Annual Big Quiz alone has raised over £22,550 and its charity golf tournaments raising over £28,000.  

Clegg Construction recognised by Defence Employer Recognition Scheme

Tess Egginton
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Clegg Construction recognised by Defence Employer Recognition Scheme
Clegg Construction has been recognised by the Defence Employer Recognition Scheme (ERS) in testament to the company’s continued support of the armed forces community. The construction company originally added its name to the Armed Forces Covenant in 2017, which represents a promise by the nation that those who serve or have served, and their families, are treated fairly. Since then, Clegg has been successful in self-nominating for a bronze award, joining thousands of companies across the UK in supporting the Armed Forces community, which includes encouraging the recruitment of reservists, armed forces veterans (including the wounded, injured and sick), cadet instructors and military spouses/partners. The company currently employs ex-military personnel in several roles, with one such employee being Gary Shout – health, safety, environment and quality (HSEQ) manager, who has been with the Clegg Group for 12 years. Gary commented: “Having spent 26 years in the Armed Forces as an infantry solider, then attaining the rank of WO1 (Regimental Sergeant Major), I enjoy being part of a company that understands the critical importance of working as a team to achieve mutual objectives. “I fully support the Armed Forces Covenant and everything it stands for, and it’s excellent to see more organisations like Clegg doing their bit to help ensure those who serve or have served (and their loved ones) are treated fairly.” Simon Blackburn, Managing Director at Clegg Construction, added: “Clegg is proud to have been recognised as part of the Defence Employer Recognition Scheme – and prouder still to have several former members of the Armed Forces community on our skilled team of employees, whose knowledge and measured approaches have been instrumental in supporting the business’s continued growth and expansion. “Over the past 3 years, we have significantly strengthened our connection with the armed forces community by working closely with the Defence Infrastructure Organisation (DIO) to undertake a range of construction and refurbishment schemes across a range of RAF properties in the East of England as part of Scape’s Regional Construction Framework. “We are so pleased to have received this acknowledgement and look forward to continuing our commitment to supporting the Armed Forces.”
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