SEPTEMBER 2025 EAST MIDLANDS LEADING BUSINESS MAGAZINE www..co.uk WWW.EASTMIDLANDSBUSINESSLINK.CO.UK WWW.EASTMIDLANDSBUSINESSLINK.CO.UK £3.50 Manufacturing at the crossroads of green innovation Gen Z rewrites the rules of the office A dynamic industrial and logistics marketEast Midlands Business Link Bricks 2025 A celebration of those helping to create the landscape for the next generation EAST MIDLANDS The prestigious East Midlands Bricks Awards are back for its 10th year! Shining a light on the region’s property and construction industry, this year’s event will take place on Thursday 2nd October, at the Trent Bridge Cricket Ground. The East Midlands Bricks Awards, organised by East Midlands Business Link Magazine, is an independent awards and publicity programme recognising development projects and people in commercial and public building across the region – from office, industrial and residential schemes, through to community projects such as leisure schemes and schools. Visit www.eastmidlandsbusinesslink.co.uk for more information. BUSINESSAs we move through the third quarter of the year, the economic picture remains worrisome. Higher prices continue to place upward pressure on inflation, the increase in staffing costs following last year’s Autumn Budget are feeding through, and while the recent 0.25% cut in interest rates will be welcome for businesses looking to borrow, this represents only one obstacle in a very difficult climate for keeping firms afloat. Business costs are mounting, the labour market is cooling, and investment intentions are weakening as confidence stands shaky. With the Autumn Budget ahead, and the Prime Minister starting September with a reshuffle in hopes of boosting his team on economic matters, further uncertainty awaits, with a need for the Government to prioritise policies that can lift investment and productivity quickly. The East Midlands’ businesses are left to continue building their resilience and efficiency in a volatile environment, often at the expense of growth ambitions. Measures recently announced in various strategies, from the Industrial Strategy to the Trade Strategy and Small Business Strategy, offer a vision of a more positive future, however these are just a starting point, with promises needing to be put into action. Our region is an innovative one full of potential, from its position influencing advanced manufacturing and clean energy industries to fintech and agritech, but it must be given the right tools — and these tools must become reality, not only talk — in order to succeed. Good reading, as always. Tess Egginton Editor www.eastmidlandsbusinesslink.co.uk East Midlands Business Link 3 EDITOR’S NOTES welcome…@BLMEastMidlands BLMEastMidlands Latest news 6 A round-up of the latest news from our region. Commercial property 16 Warehouse and distribution properties are in high demand in the East Midlands, as the region welcomes new starts, completions, and deals. Office solutions 20 From wellness and sustainability to flexible culture and tech-first spaces, a new generation is reshaping how Britain works and demanding offices that earn their place in daily life. Finance23 Cautious banks and a fragile economy are pushing companies towards alternative lenders, testing resilience and reshaping the funding landscape. Accounting 26 Tracy Priest, associate director at Streets, breaks down the Making Tax Digital initiative. Exporting28 Confidence in exporting is fragile against a volatile global backdrop, increasing complexity and costs, but the Government is looking to turn the tide, aiming to support businesses to boost their growth by accessing international markets. Contents September 2025 23 32 46 Manufacturing 32 Once defined by its industrial heritage, manufacturing in the East Midlands is now being reshaped by sustainability and digital innovation, as firms balance tradition with the demands of a low-carbon future. Public relations 36 Greg Simpson, founder of Press For Attention PR, considers the problems of being too polished and the opportunity in authenticity. Corporate hospitality 38 Investments and diversification are reshaping venues as the backbone of corporate hospitality, balancing rising costs with the demand for memorable business experiences. AutoLink 42 We take a look at three new premium brand estate cars available, each offering a unique blend of performance, luxury, and innovative features. • We put the Rolls-Royce Black Badge Spectre through its paces. Events48 A timely look at forthcoming business events around the East Midlands. And finally...50 Here’s Frazer’s collection of the weird and wonderful ‘news’ that came his way over the last few weeks. 28 Group Editor Steve Fisher s.fisher@blmgroup.co.uk Editor Tess Egginton t.egginton@blmgroup.co.uk Sales Director Angela Cooper a.cooper@blmgroup.co.uk Tel: (01472) 310310 Accounts & Subscriptions Angela Sharman accounts@blmgroup.co.uk Tel: (01472) 310301 Fax: (01472) 310311 Design & Production Gary Jorgensen, Mark Casson studio@blmgroup.co.uk Tel: (01472) 310304 E-Mail: eastmidlands@blmgroup.co.uk Publisher Haychart Ltd, t/a Business Link Magazine Group, Huntingdon House, 278-290 Huntingdon Street, Nottingham NG1 3LY Cover photographs courtesy: stock.adobe.com/weerasak • Audi • Nataliya Hora • Nina Lawrenson/peopleimages.com • Ada All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, transmitted, photocopied, recorded or otherwise without express permission of the copyright holder, for which application should be addressed first to the publisher. While every reasonable care is taken, neither the publisher nor its participating agents accept liability for loss or damage to prints, colour transparencies, negatives or other material of whatever nature submitted to this publication. The views expressed in this publication are not necessarily the views of those held by the publisher.Frontier Software Payroll Services marks 25 years of growth and dedication Frontier Software is celebrating a significant milestone, with 25 years of payroll bureau operations in the UK. Over this time, its payroll services offering has grown steadily, earning a reputation for trusted and professional payroll outsourcing. Alongside this anniversary for the Quedgeley office, the Nottingham team is also marking 22 years of operations, underlining the company’s commitment to clients. Both payroll services teams are led by experienced managers, each with more than 20 years of service, ensuring stability, continuity and strong client relationships. Today, Frontier Software Payroll Services proudly supports 250 client organisations, from those with fewer than 10 to those with several hundred employees. Offering reliable, efficient, and personalised solutions, these anniversaries highlight not just years in business, but long-standing partnerships and client trust that define Frontier Software’s journey. The company, which also supplies payroll and HR software, celebrated 40 years in the UK in 2023. Managing Director Michael Howard said: “We look ahead to the future with pride in our past and confidence in continued success.” For more information on the services available from Frontier Software, contact sales@frontiersoftware.com or call 01276 456902. 6 East Midlands Business Link www.eastmidlandsbusinesslink.co.uk GENERAL NEWS Ambitious growth of Sills & Betteridge Solicitors continues following merger with Bell & Buxton Solicitors Sills & Betteridge LLP has merged with historic Sheffield law firm Bell & Buxton Solicitors. Sills & Betteridge Solicitors, established in 1759, already has 16 offices across Lincolnshire, the East Midlands and Yorkshire and over 400 partners and staff. Their expansion into South Yorkshire began in 2019 with the acquisition of Bridge Sanderson Munro Solicitors of Doncaster, Bawtry, Thorne and Wath upon Dearne. The firm then extended its presence into Sheffield in 2021 with the acquisition of Rawson Family Law. Two years later, they acquired Acclaimed Family Law and the team now occupy offices at New Oxford House, Barker’s Pool in the regenerated ‘Heart of the City’ quarter. Bell & Buxton Solicitors has been a pillar of legal excellence in Sheffield for 150 years, renowned for its litigation and corporate law practices. The Bell & Buxton team will remain at Telegraph House. The merger of these two Legal 500 ranked law firms will create one of the largest law firms in Sheffield with a turnover of over £25 million. The combined firm is to be known initially as Sills & Betteridge incorporating Bell & Buxton. Aquavista expands marina network in North-West Long Eaton-based Aquavista has strengthened its UK footprint by acquiring three marinas in the North-West of England. Fettlers Wharf Marina, Furness Vale Marina, and Marple Marina will join the company’s existing portfolio. With the additions, Aquavista now operates 32 marinas and manages over 5,300 berths nationwide, spanning inland waterways and coastal locations. The transaction was financed with support from LDC, a private equity partner since 2018, alongside debt facilities provided by Barings and Clydesdale Bank. The expansion increases capacity in a strategic region and positions Aquavista to offer more options for leisure and residential moorings, enhancing operational scale and market coverage. Aquavista CEO, Steve de Polo, said: “We are delighted to announce the acquisition of Fettlers Wharf, Furness Vale and Marple in the North West of England. “These marinas complement our current 29 location footprint and we look forward to working with the moorers in these new locations to invest in products and services that will further enhance their mooring experience. Our mission remains to provide a great waterside experience, whether you live, visit, or work at an Aquavista marina.” Fettlers Wharf Marina L-R: Richard Bussell (Sills & Betteridge), Alex Ross (Bell & Buxton), Partner Sandra Russell (Sills & Betteridge Incorporating Acclaimed Family Law), Matthew Rodgers (Bell & Buxton) and Martyn Hall (Sills & Betteridge).www.eastmidlandsbusinesslink.co.uk East Midlands Business Link 7 GENERAL NEWS • Commercial • Events • Headshots • Automotive • Fashion CALL OR EMAIL FOR A QUOTE 07506 998855 STEVE@STEVEEDWARDSPHOTOGRAPHY.COM STEVEEDWARDSPHOTOGRAPHY.COM Creating eye-catching images to help businesses build their brands and engage with clients. Derbyshire consultancy returns to independent ownership Merebrook Consulting, a Cromford-based environmental consultancy, has regained independent ownership after previously being part of Spanish engineering group IDOM. The firm, established in 1997, provides services covering air quality, odour control, asbestos, contaminated land, regulatory compliance, and materials management. Recent projects include the restoration of Sudbury Gas Works in Derbyshire, reconstruction of two schools in Lincolnshire, and remediation of a former tar wharf and fuel depot on Portsmouth’s seafront. Following the exit from IDOM, Merebrook now operates within M&L Holdings, a Gibraltar-based portfolio spanning construction, building products, and related industries, with operational bases in London, Barcelona, and Dubai. The transition was facilitated by M&A advisers KBS Corporate in Bolton, managing a cross-border sale that returned the firm to UK ownership. The move provides Merebrook with greater flexibility to expand its service offerings and strengthen client relationships. 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. Marc Abrams, senior office partner at KPMG UK’s Nottingham office, at the EastWest building on Tollhouse Hill in Nottingham © stock.adobe.com/SerhiiColton Packaging appoints experienced business development manager Colton Packaging, a Loughborough-based distributor of corrugated packaging solutions, has appointed Cora Montgomery as its new business development manager for the Midlands region. With nearly a decade of experience in the packaging industry, Cora brings a wealth of expertise and proven success in customer relationship management, strategic growth and bespoke packaging solutions. In this newly created role, Cora will focus on expanding Colton Packaging’s customer base throughout the Midlands, developing strategic partnerships and supporting clients with innovative and sustainable corrugated packaging. “We’re excited to welcome Cora to the team,” said director Duncan Smith. “Cora’s extensive industry knowledge and track record in driving business development will be instrumental in strengthening our presence in the Midlands and helping our customers achieve smarter, more efficient packaging outcomes.” Cora previously held key commercial roles with another packaging distributor, where she consistently exceeded growth targets and built long-term relationships across multiple sectors. Platform Housing Group appoints new board member A social landlord has appointed a new member to its board. Platform Housing Group has welcomed Jane Porter as a non executive director and sits on the group audit and risk committee. Jane – who has worked in housing for more than 30 years – is an experienced non executive director and a recognised sector influencer having served on regulatory advisory groups and holding board roles at Settle and Citra Pathways. During her time in housing leadership, Jane has been recognised for driving transformation, strengthening governance and delivering services that put customers first. As former chief operating officer at Southern Housing, Jane led operations for more than 79,000 homes, with responsibility for major business functions and a £500m budget. Earlier this year, Jane was awarded the Lifetime Achievement Award at the Women in Social Housing event, or WISH. Jane said: “I’m thrilled to be joining Platform Housing Group at such a pivotal time for the housing sector. Platform’s commitment to delivering for customers, investing in communities and embracing innovation aligns strongly with my own values. “I look forward to working alongside my Board colleagues to support the Group’s ongoing transformation and ensure we continue to put residents at the heart of everything we do.” Stepnell appoints strategic director Stepnell has appointed Mike Smedley as strategic director as it commits to expanding the group’s specialist construction services. Operating across all of Stepnell’s geography, Mike brings more than three decades of experience with major national contractors. He has a proven track record in building high- performing teams and business units, having most recently served as managing director at Brymor Group Southern. His career also includes senior roles at Geoffrey Osborne, Kier, and VolkerFitzpatrick. A chartered quantity surveyor (MRICS) and Fellow of the Chartered Institute of Building (FCIOB), Mike will apply his expertise in business planning, risk management, tendering, and operational leadership to support the development of Stepnell’s specialist divisions into independent business lines. These include Step Energy, Lawford Bespoke Joinery, plant and fleet services, concrete repairs, and a new CCTV offering currently in development. Mike said: “This is an exciting opportunity to drive the growth of Stepnell’s wider business portfolio. Working closely with the senior leaders of each division, my aim is to help shape these services into self-sufficient, stand-alone units with strong management structures – capable of delivering outstanding service and commercial performance nationwide, in line with Stepnell’s complete construction approach.” Cora Montgomery Jane Porter 8 East Midlands Business Link www.eastmidlandsbusinesslink.co.uk APPOINTMENTS Mike SmedleyWright Vigar makes senior promotion as part of continued investment in talent Wright Vigar has promoted a long-standing team member to director, reinforcing the firm’s commitment to investing in its people. Louise Lane, who joined Wright Vigar in 2004, has been promoted to director. With over 25 years of experience in accounting and taxation, Louise has built a reputation as one of the UK’s leading experts in cryptoasset taxation. She began her career in accounts and audit before specialising in tax and now heads up Wright Vigar’s cryptoasset team. Since 2018, Louise has advised a wide range of clients on cryptoasset tax and accounting matters. She has worked closely with Recap.io to develop crypto tax software, author the Recap UK Tax Guide for Individuals, and liaise with HMRC on areas of uncertainty. Louise is also an active member of various crypto tax and accounting working groups / committees coordinated by CryptoUK, Bitcoin Policy UK, the Chartered Institute of Tax and the Institute of Chartered Accountants in England & Wales. She regularly contributes to HMRC and Treasury cryptoasset roundtables, helping shape the future of crypto tax policy in the UK and takes every opportunity to speak on panels on this niche area. Northants IT consultancy appoints new head of sales Northants IT Consultancy 3RS IT Solutions has appointed Jake Hill as its new head of sales, in a move to further support its growth plans. The company, led by husband- and-wife team, Steve and Leila Souch, started out from offices in Wellingborough and expanded in 2024 by opening another office in Leicester, alongside an office space in Nottingham. The new hire follows hot on the heels of the appointment of Chloe Brabbins as its customer experience relationship manager. Jake brings a wealth of experience in client relationships, networking and sales, having previously worked in a range of roles including membership advisor for Northamptonshire Chamber of Commerce and as sales executive and then head of business development at Trapp’d Escape Rooms. He also worked in healthcare for seven years. Immediately before joining 3RS IT Solutions, Jake was senior corporate fundraising coordinator for the Northampton Hope Centre, using his sales skills in a different environment to provide vital support to help ensure as many people as possible got off the streets of Northampton. Jake also previously worked alongside company directors Steve, Leila and Ethan Malvern in a professional capacity in 2019. He said: “I’m really looking forward to working with the fantastic team again having previously worked with them for two and a half years.” Finch welcomes new consultant Leicestershire-based health and safety risk management experts, Finch Consulting, have appointed accomplished engineer surveyor Paul Cullinan. With over 24 years of experience as a highly trained aerospace engineer with the Royal Air Force, Paul brings extensive expertise in testing, inspecting, and certifying mechanical, pneumatic, hydraulic, gas turbine, electrical, avionic, and armament systems. His professional background includes thorough examinations under LOLER, PUWER, and Working at Height regulations, as well as inspections of lift installations, lifting equipment, crane machinery, and suspended access equipment. Paul has also held roles as a lecturer at the Defence School of Aeronautical Engineering and as a team leader at the Joint Aircraft Recovery and Transportation Squadron (JARTS), supporting the Aircraft Accident and Investigation Branch (AAIB) in investigating and recovering aircraft incidents worldwide. Additionally, he worked with Airbus as a Pt145 production planner, streamlining maintenance practices and enhancing fleet resource planning. In his new role as a consultant at Finch, Paul will utilize his expertise in aeronautical systems engineering, thorough inspections, and risk assessments to support Finch’s diverse client portfolio and enhance the company’s service offerings. Paul said: “I am excited to be starting at Finch Consulting and am hoping that my skills, experience, and understanding of a variety of challenges within engineering will be tested and that I will become an asset for this great company. “I look forward to developing myself personally with chartership and complementing the already amazing work completed by my new colleagues here at Finch.” Paul Cullinan Louise Lane www.eastmidlandsbusinesslink.co.uk East Midlands Business Link 9 APPOINTMENTS Jake Hill Next >