Arla Foods and DMK Group reveal plan to merge
Dale Power Solutions acquires long-term business partner
Scarborough-based Dale Power Solutions has acquired long-term business partner, Calibre Power Electronics, demonstrating its commitment to the Scottish market and deepening its offshore oil and gas expertise.
Rix Group sells expenses management platform to Swedish firm
Rosehill Polymers expands global footprint with support from UKEF
Rosehill Polymers Group, a manufacturer based in West Yorkshire, has significantly boosted its global presence following financial backing from UK Export Finance (UKEF). Established in 1988, the company is known for its high-performance polymer systems made from recycled rubber, serving diverse industries such as highways, rail, energy, sport, and security infrastructure.
In 2023, UKEF provided a credit guarantee through its General Export Facility, allowing Rosehill to secure financing from Virgin Money. This support enabled the company to expand its operations, resulting in a second manufacturing facility in Sowerby Bridge and an increase in export markets from 52 to over 60 countries.
The new financing facilitated Rosehill’s entry into nine additional export markets in 2024-25, including Chile, Colombia, Saudi Arabia, South Africa, and Iraq. Further market expansions are planned for 2025 in Argentina, Malaysia, and Singapore.
The company currently employs around 100 people in its West Yorkshire base. Its focus is on fostering local talent through apprenticeships and university placements. This investment in workforce development is central to its growth strategy and commitment to sustainable manufacturing practices.
UKEF’s support has been crucial in Rosehill’s ability to expand its international business and align with the UK government’s global trade objectives.
Sheffield industrial estate acquired for £9m
£50m funding injection supports small business growth in the North
The Business Enterprise Fund (BEF) has distributed over £50m in funding to small businesses across the North of England via the British Business Bank’s Start Up Loans programme. More than 4,500 loans have been provided, helping entrepreneurs launch and expand their operations.
The programme has supported diverse business founders, with female entrepreneurs receiving 37% of the loans, ethnic minority business owners securing 14%, and 8% of loans going to young entrepreneurs aged 18-24. The loans offer up to £25,000 for each director, with a maximum of £100,000 available per business.
Many businesses have benefited from the funding, including JPC Specialist Motorsports in the North East, which received £20,000 for growth. Xtra9ce Wigs in Wigan used £25,000 to relocate to a larger premises, while Leeds-based Yorkshire Mushroom Emporium secured £50,000 to increase production and scale operations. The mushroom farm, founded in 2021, has expanded from a small-scale operation to a fully-equipped facility, providing restaurants with fresh gourmet mushrooms and home-growing kits. The funding helped purchase new equipment, which improved efficiency and reduced costs.
The programme continues to provide crucial support to small businesses, enabling them to scale, invest in infrastructure, and contribute to local economies.
UK businesses shift focus from cost-cutting to strategic software investments
A new survey of over 2,000 UK business professionals shows a significant change in how companies approach software investment. Following a turbulent economic period, businesses are moving away from short-term cost-saving measures and instead prioritising investments in artificial intelligence (AI), analytics, and cybersecurity to build long-term resilience.
The survey by Yorkshire-based Propel Tech reveals that companies increasingly see bespoke software as a key driver for business success. The findings from the 2025 Bespoke Software Wishlist Survey indicate that, unlike last year, decision-making tools powered by analytics and robust cybersecurity solutions have topped the agenda for many firms.
In 2024, businesses focused primarily on cost reduction and efficiency, with many viewing software investments as a means to streamline operations. However, the latest research shows a nearly 200% increase in the importance placed on software that enhances decision-making through analytics, with a marked rise in the prioritisation of cybersecurity investments. Just 37 businesses reported revenue growth as their top software need for 2025, down sharply from 329 the previous year.
This shift signals a growing recognition that short-term savings no longer suffice in an unpredictable business environment. With cyber threats escalating and AI becoming a standard feature of bespoke software systems, UK businesses opt for custom solutions that offer agility and security, rather than focusing solely on quick fixes.
The findings underscore a broader trend: companies are transitioning from a mindset of immediate survival to one of strategic, long-term growth, where intelligence, security, and adaptability are essential for future success.
Planning approved for 66-bed care home in Bourne
LNT Care Developments has secured planning approval from South Kesteven District Council for the construction of a 66-bed residential care home in Bourne. The development will replace an existing house on Tarragon Way, with a two-storey H-shaped building designed to include parking for 30 vehicles.
The project is expected to create between 50 and 60 local jobs and represent a significant investment in the area. Beyond construction, it will generate ongoing opportunities for local contractors, suppliers, and community engagement, including potential partnerships with schools and community groups.
While most local residents supported the location, concerns were raised over the site’s accessibility and parking capacity. Ward councillor Helen Crawford noted issues with the proposed entrance on Coriander Drive, potential congestion from HGV traffic, and insufficient parking for visitors and staff.
The planning committee approved the project with the condition that a travel plan and construction plan be submitted. No timeline for the project’s completion has been provided.
Largest cold storage facility opens in Lincolnshire to boost UK food security
Magnavale has launched the UK’s largest cold storage facility in Grantham, Lincolnshire. With a capacity of 101,000 frozen pallet spaces, the site is designed to support the growing demands of the UK food supply chain while focusing on sustainability.
This cutting-edge facility operates entirely on renewable energy and incorporates advanced automation and high-bay, rack-clad storage. It also offers additional services such as blast freezing and contract packing, streamlining operations for businesses in the sector.
The opening of Magnavale Easton will strengthen the UK’s food security and is expected to bring long-term economic benefits to the local area. It will also help companies reduce costs and improve supply chain efficiency.
New solar farm proposal in Lincolnshire to power 23,000 homes
Starlight Energy has unveiled plans for a new solar farm in Lincolnshire, which will generate enough energy to power 23,000 homes. The proposed site, located near Burton Pedwardine on the outskirts of existing solar farms, spans 76 hectares (188 acres) off White Cross Lane, Sleaford.
Following consultations with the Burton Pedwardine Parish Council, the developer scaled down the project’s initial size. The proposal includes the installation of 3m-tall solar panels, a substation, fencing, CCTV cameras, and access tracks, with a 40-year operational timeline.
If approved by North Kesteven District Council, the project is expected to generate £50,000 annually in business rates and establish a community fund. Until the consultation period ends, the public has until the end of the period to submit feedback through the NKDC website.
