Tech-driven billboard operator 75Media secures investment for expansion

April Lara
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Outdoor advertising firm 75Media has secured a seven-figure investment from NPIF II—Mercia Equity Finance to expand its AI-driven platform and expand internationally.

Since launching in 2020 with 140 billboard sites and two employees, the Leeds-based company has scaled rapidly, operating more than 1,200 classic and digital billboard sites across the UK. It recently acquired London-based iQ OOH and reported a 454% revenue increase last year.

The investment will accelerate the development of its AI-powered BOB (Billboard Optioning & Booking) system, designed to streamline ad placements. It will also support expansion into the US, Scandinavia, and the Middle East.

Alongside the funding, 75Media has restructured its leadership team. Founder Paul Inman is now CEO, Joel Turner has been promoted to managing director, and Joe Lawson is the new commercial director.

Mercia Ventures, which led the investment, highlighted 75Media’s ability to combine asset growth with technology-driven sales, positioning it as a disruptor in the outdoor advertising market.

Bakkavor posts strong results but absorbs UK restructuring costs

April Lara
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Bakkavor posts strong results but absorbs UK restructuring costs

Bakkavor Group reported a 4% revenue increase to £2.29 billion in 2024, with adjusted operating profit up 20.5% to £113.6 million. Despite overall growth, operating profit dropped to £93.4 million due to £20.2 million in exceptional costs tied to UK site closures.

The company credited its performance to volume growth across all markets and a focus on efficiency. Bakkavor aims to continue margin improvements in 2025, targeting a 6% profitability goal.

As part of a restructuring plan announced in late 2022, Bakkavor closed its Salads site in Sutton Bridge, Lincolnshire, and a Desserts facility in Leicester, affecting approximately 900 jobs. The company completed the transition in early 2023 to streamline operations.

Kingston Engineering invests in state-of-the-art Hwacheon Hi-Tech 200B turning centre

Tess Egginton
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Kingston Engineering invests in state-of-the-art Hwacheon Hi-Tech 200B turning centre
Leading precision engineering manufacturers, Kingston Engineering recently announced their plan to invest significantly in new machines throughout 2025. It has already proven to be a busy start to the year, with the installation of a new Hwacheon Hi-Tech 200B onto the machine shop floor at Kingston Engineering. This horizontal turning centre is a proven, multifunctional, highly customisable machine, equipped with advanced features to handle complex machining tasks. The Hwacheon Hi-Tech 200B is distinguished by its solid machine beds, wide flat guides and powerful drives capable of handling the most demanding machining requirements. It ensures the superior production and performance of ultra-precision complex components with intricate features. The Hwacheon Hi-Tech 200B is a welcome addition to the already extensive machine base at Kingston Engineering. Further investment in the first quarter of this year will see the delivery of a Hwacheon Vesta-1300B+ to the Kingston Engineering site on Pennington Street in Hull. This vertical machining centre is particularly suitable for ductile materials like copper, aluminium or steel and enables high cutting rates. It’s an exciting time for Kingston Engineering as they continue to invest for the future and lead the way in shaping precision engineering of the future.
Kingston Engineering Co. (Hull) Limited Pennington Street, Hull. East Yorkshire HU8 7LD email: sales@kingston-engineering.co.uk Web: www.kingston-engineering.co.uk

Gi Group advances diversity strategy with employee-led initiatives

April Lara
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Gi Group advances diversity strategy with employee-led initiatives

Recruitment firm Gi Group is expanding its diversity and inclusion efforts across its 26 branches and 61 sites in the UK. The company has implemented “Let’s Talk” sessions—employee-driven discussions covering neurodiversity, racial allyship, women in leadership, and men’s mental health.

These initiatives aim to create an open, judgement-free space for employees to share experiences and perspectives, reinforcing the company’s commitment to inclusivity. With more than 500 employees, the programme is part of Gi Group’s broader strategy to embed diversity into workplace culture.

The company’s approach has earned it three nominations at the upcoming British Diversity Awards. However, leadership emphasises that the focus remains on driving long-term, meaningful change for employees, clients, and candidates.

Countdown begins for the 14th Annual Property & Business Investment Lincolnshire Expo – Just 3 weeks away

Tess Egginton
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Countdown begins for the 14th Annual Property & Business Investment Lincolnshire Expo – Just 3 weeks away
With just three weeks remaining until the highly anticipated 14th Annual Property & Business Investment Lincolnshire Expo, preparations are well underway for what promises to be an exciting and informative event. Sponsored by Team Lincolnshire and the Lincolnshire Chamber of Commerce, the expo serves as a premier networking and knowledge-sharing opportunity for professionals across a wide range of industries, including Property, Construction, Finance, Investment, Inward Investment, Public & Private Sectors, and Professional Services. The expo will take place on 26th March 2025 at the Bentley Hotel, located in South Hykeham, Lincoln (LN6 9NH), offering easy access and ample free parking for all attendees. The event is the perfect platform to explore new business opportunities, gain valuable insights from industry experts, and connect with key decision-makers. This year’s event will feature three speed networking sessions throughout the morning, offering attendees the chance to engage in fast-paced, structured networking with fellow professionals. These sessions are designed to help individuals build valuable connections quickly and effectively. To close the event, there will be a networking lunch at 2:00 PM, hosted by event sponsors Team Lincolnshire and the Lincolnshire Chamber of Commerce. Tickets to the lunch are available for just £15 plus VAT and can be purchased at https://businessshowsgroup.co.uk/product/network-lunch-lincolnshire-delegates/. Registration for the event is now open. For more details on the full schedule of exhibitors, speakers, and networking opportunities, and to register, please visit https://businessshowsgroup.co.uk/register/. Event Details: Date: 26th March 2025 Location: Bentley Hotel, South Hykeham, Lincoln, LN6 9NH Exhibition Opens: 9am Exhibition Closes: 1:45pm Team Lincolnshire & Lincolnshire Chamber of Commerce Lunch £15: 2pm-3:15pm Parking: Free parking available

UK vineyard pioneers UV-C technology to improve vine health

April Lara
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UK vineyard pioneers UV-C technology to improve vine health

Veenow Vineyard has become the first in the UK to adopt UV Boosting technology, which uses UV-C light to strengthen grapevines against fungal diseases like powdery and downy mildew and reduce frost damage.

Trials indicate the system can lower frost risk by up to 50% when applied within 48 hours of a frost event and cut the need for chemical sprays by up to 60%, requiring only three to four applications per season. The technology is also expected to reduce disease incidence by 40% and increase vine yield by 13%.

Veenow plans to use the system on key grape varieties, including Pinot Noir, Bacchus, Chardonnay, Meunier, and Cabernet Noir. The vineyard’s owners say the investment aligns with their commitment to sustainability, alongside other practices like digestate application and cover cropping.

Six-figure backing from NPIF II to drive transformative growth for C80 Solutions

Michael Fisher
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Six-figure backing from NPIF II to drive transformative growth for C80 Solutions
C80 Solutions, which is part of the wider C80 Group, has secured a six-figure loan from NPIF II – BEF Smaller Loans, which is managed by the Business Enterprise Fund (BEF) as part of the Northern Powerhouse Investment Fund II (NPIF II). With a team of 44 professionals and an annual revenue of £3.6m in 2024, the loan will enable C80 Solutions to invest in talent acquisition, resources, and cutting-edge infrastructure to support its ambitious plans. As the company continues to grow, it is set to create new job opportunities, with plans to expand its workforce by up to five positions in the coming year, contributing to economic growth across Yorkshire and beyond. Achieving 30% year-on-year growth in 2024 – which is set to increase to 40% in 2025 – C80 Solutions provide a complete range of energy assessment, compliance, consultancy and testing services for the UK residential and commercial sectors. The business will use the funding to bring its services together under the new brand name “enevo” in early 2025, which will help the company enhance visibility and provide an integrated, multidisciplinary approach to clients across the UK. Founded in 2010 and based in Birstall, West Yorkshire, C80 Solutions reflects a vision for sustainable business practices and innovation. Over the years, the company has earned a reputation for excellence, collaborating with high-profile clients such as Knight Frank, Torsion Projects, Eddisons, Savills, Avison Young, Caddick Construction, Esh, and JRL Group. Mark Heptonstall, founder of C80 Solutions and Managing Director of C80 Group commented: “This funding marks a pivotal moment in our journey. It’s not just about scaling operations but about investing in innovation and the people who make our vision a reality. By consolidating our services under the enevo brand, we’re positioning ourselves as a one-stop solution for sustainable building compliance and consultancy. This is an exciting chapter for us, and we’re proud to be driving positive environmental and economic impact.” Mark Iley, Senior Investment Manager at Business Enterprise Fund, said: “It has been a pleasure working with Mark and the team at C80 Solutions. Their commitment to driving sustainable practices and advancing net zero goals within the building compliance sector is truly impressive. Supporting businesses like C80 Solutions aligns perfectly with our mission to foster innovation and sustainable growth in the North of England.” Lizzy Upton, senior investment manager at British Business Bank, said: “This round of funding will enable the business to make strategic change to accelerate growth and create new jobs. There are plenty of challenges facing the residential and commercial sector, so it is great to see NPIF II supporting a business like C80 help other companies navigate the regulatory environment and improve their sustainability.” The £660m Northern Powerhouse Investment Fund II (NPIFII) covers the entire North of England and provides loans from £25k to £2m and equity investment up to £5m to help a range of small and medium sized businesses to start up, scale up or stay ahead. The purpose of the Northern Powerhouse Investment Fund II is to drive sustainable economic growth by supporting innovation and creating local opportunity for new and growing businesses across the North of England. The Northern Powerhouse Investment Fund II will increase the supply and diversity of early-stage finance for the North’s smaller businesses, providing funds to firms that might otherwise not receive investment and help to break down barriers in access to finance.  

Subaru Forester

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Subaru Forester

An unrivalled combination of safety, capability and reliability

Since its launch in 1997, the Subaru Forester has been a mainstay of the motoring world, with more than five million vehicles sold globally and over 400,000 cars shifted in Europe alone. The 2025 iteration keeps momentum by mixing refinement with ruggedness to become the perfect companion for adventure.

The new Forester has been redesigned to express its all-weather performance with cleaner, simpler, and more subtle styling. The vehicle offers improved drivability and increased on and off-road capability over the earlier model.

It matches Subaru’s iconic symmetrical, always-on, all-wheel drive system to an enhanced edition of the company’s renowned e-Boxer mild-hybrid power unit. It also boasts an improved X-mode terrain selection system and class-leading 220mm ground clearance.

The Forester offers three trim levels: Limited, Field, and Touring. The test subject here is the £42,995 top-of-the-line Touring model, which is attractive with its glossy blacked-out exterior trim and 19-inch alloy wheels.

Indeed, the Subaru impresses with its new looks at first glance. The front grille adds a sense of width and solidity, capped by slender signature lights and blackout headlamps that give it a contemporary feel. Fresh LED cornering lights also increase night-time visibility by lighting up the front of the vehicle while turning, helping you spot potential obstructions sooner.

The side is defined by sleek lines interrupted only by pleasingly sculpted wheel arches that accommodate attractive alloy wheels, contributing to the Forester’s robust appearance.

The large-opening tailgate provides a spacious cargo area, which we’ll discuss further in a bit. Plus, details, such as a hummingbird design on the windscreen and paw prints on the door trim, contribute to the Subaru’s lively personality.

The new Forester comes with an 11.6-inch Full HD infotainment touchscreen with a resolution of 1920×1080 to improve the usability of its features and controls. The system has increased connectivity through Apple CarPlay and Android Auto – and improved navigation compatible with what3words.

The Subaru’s 2.0-litre four-cylinder naturally aspirated engine delivers smooth acceleration and has gained more torque –  182Nm @ 4000 RPM. The X-mode is ideal for going off the tarmac – and has settings for stuff like mud and snow. And you’ll be glad that the front seats are designed to minimise fatigue and maximise comfort during long drives. The cabin also offers class-leading quietness thanks to active acoustic engineering. This serves to create a serene environment.

Functionally, the 2025 Forester boasts an impressive 508 litres of boot space, expandable to 1,720 litres when needed. Features like the hands-free powered tailgate with a kick sensor simplify loading and unloading.

The redesigned Forester’s permanent symmetrical all-wheel drive and specially engineered e-Boxer mild-hybrid powertrain manage the power split between the electric motor and engine through seamless switching between three driving modes: Engine, EV, and Motor Assist. This versatility enhances fuel efficiency according to driving conditions.

All Subaru Foresters have a factory warranty of three years or 60,000 miles. The traction battery has an eight-year or 100,000-mile warranty. Maintenance intervals are every 12,000 miles or once a year, whichever comes first.

Although it sells well globally, this model isn’t considered especially common in the UK compared with other vehicles, which adds to its appeal by ensuring you’ll stand out. Only time will reveal whether this sixth-generation Forester becomes the best-selling version to date.

Fast Facts

New 2025 Subaru Forester:

    • Max speed: 117 mph
    • 0-62 mph: 12.2 secs
    • Fuel economy: 34.9 mpg
    • Engine layout: 2.0-litre four-cylinder
    • Max. power (BHP): 134
    • CO2: 183 g/km
    • Price from: £42,995 – as tested (Touring model).

Available at RICHTOY, 1-2 King Street, Winterton, North Lincolnshire DN15 9RN. Tel: 01724 735282. www.richtoy.co.uk

Ferriby Meadows rises rapidly as Beal buyers home in on prestigious location

Michael Fisher
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Ferriby Meadows rises rapidly as Beal buyers home in on prestigious location
Construction is progressing rapidly at a prestigious development in the picturesque East Yorkshire village of North Ferriby. The first homes are taking shape at family-owned housebuilder Beal Homes’ latest luxury development, Ferriby Meadows, which will bring 115 high-quality homes to one of East Yorkshire’s most desirable villages. The first rooflines are now visible, with the show home and first completions on track for this Autumn. Demand has already been exceptionally high for the development, where Beal is investing £40m to deliver a range of two, three, four and five-bedroom homes, as well as three and four-bedroom bungalows. Plots currently available are priced from £325,000, with future releases due to include two-bedroom homes from £235,000. Already 17 properties have been reserved off plan in just four months since the sales launch and interest in the development continues to be exceptionally strong. Ross Clarkson, Sales and Marketing Director of East Yorkshire-based Beal, said: “We’re excited that construction is progressing so well at Ferriby Meadows and that we’re experiencing such strong demand, with a very high number of early reservations. “North Ferriby is one of East Yorkshire’s most sought-after locations, so we’re delighted to be offering people an exceptionally rare opportunity to own a luxurious brand-new home in this beautiful community.”

Green light granted for £45m residential development in Witham St Hughs

Tess Egginton
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Green light granted for £45m residential development in Witham St Hughs
Housebuilder Honey will build 170 new homes in Witham St Hughs, Lincolnshire after being granted planning permission for a £45m development. Called Nova and located off Warren Lane, the development will comprise a mix of two-, three- and four-bedroom homes. Nova will feature 17 of Honey’s different house types. Of the 170 homes at the development, 28 have been allocated as affordable housing. Work at the development is anticipated to start in April with the first residents expected to move in by November this year. Honey chief executive officer, Mark Mitchell, said: “Our range of new homes being delivered at Nova will meet the strong demand there is for high-specification homes amongst buyers in the local area. “Each home at the development has been thoughtfully designed to combine style, substance and sustainability to offer buyers homes which are unmatched at their price point. “Having now secured planning permission, we look forward to works starting at the site and launching the first homes for sale at this new community we are delivering.”
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