90 new affordable homes set for Bradford

Tess Egginton
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90 new affordable homes set for Bradford

Social enterprise, Places for People, in partnership with Vistry Group, the provider of mixed-tenure affordable homes, is set to build 90 new affordable homes in Bierly, Bradford.

The site – Woodlands Edge – in Bierley, a suburb of Bradford, will provide areas of new open space, green corridors and landscaping. Existing pedestrian connections will be improved, and work will be undertaken to enhance nearby Brierley Hall Woods.

The new homes will include a range of two- and three-bedroom houses, offered in affordable rent and shared ownership tenures.

The development is expected to create 144 full-time construction jobs and almost 180 supply chain jobs across the build period, injecting £23m into the local economy.

As part of their commitment to social value, Places for People will also work closely with local schools and colleges to provide site visits, toolbox talks, and work placements, as well as supporting local schools’ own initiatives.

Nilam Buchanan, Regional Managing Director for Central and North of Places for People, says: “As the UK’s leading social enterprise, we have a long-term plan to help address England’s chronic shortage of homes and build sustainable communities, with a big focus on delivering much-needed affordable homes.

“We are delighted to work with Bradford Council and our strategic partners, Vistry Group to create 90 much-needed affordable houses for the local community. We’re also proud to provide significant employment opportunities and showcase the opportunities a career in the built environment can offer.”

Vistry secured planning permission for the development back in October 2023 and work is set to start on site this summer.   

Andrew Poyner, Managing Director of Vistry, West Yorkshire, said: “Thanks to the engagement and support of Bradford Council and the West Yorkshire Combined Authority, we’ve been able to work together with Places for People to unlock this site for development. It will now deliver 90 high-quality, affordable homes, making a significant impact on Bradford’s affordable housing supply.”

UK signs up to international digital trade agreement

Stuart Pearcey
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UK signs up to international digital trade agreement
The UK has today joined a groundbreaking agreement which is designed to grow the economy by boosting global digital trade. After five years of negotiations, the UK and 90 other countries have finalised the E-Commerce Joint Initiative at the World Trade Organization, which will make trade faster, cheaper, fairer and more secure. It will help British businesses, workers and consumers seize the opportunities of global digital trade, which is estimated by the OECD to be worth around £4 trillion and growing. Once implemented, the agreement will commit all participants to the digitalisation of customs documents and processes. This will in many cases end the need to print forms off and hand them over at customs – a slow, expensive and old-fashioned way of working. The signatories to this agreement will also commit to recognising e-documents and e-signatures, reducing the need for businesses to physically sign contracts and post them around the world. Global adoption of digital customs systems, processes and documents would increase UK GDP by up to £24.2 billion in 2023 UK GDP terms. Even partial adoption could represent a significant boost to UK GDP. It also commits signatories to putting in place legal safeguards against online fraudsters and misleading claims about products. Business and Trade Secretary Jonathan Reynolds said: “We are proud to play our part in securing the first ever global digital trade agreement, cutting costs for business and delivering on this government’s ambition to deliver economic growth.

“Britain is back and proudly playing her role as an outward looking trading nation. Global digital trade is already estimated by the OECD to be worth around £4 trillion and counting but no common set of global rules exist. This is a huge step forward in correcting that and ensuring British businesses feel the benefit.”

Science Secretary Peter Kyle said: “This global agreement aims to help people use technology safely by protecting them from fraud, while driving economic growth through the digitalisation of trade so it’s faster and more secure. We will leave no stone unturned in our work to share the benefits of technology and drive economic growth by working with partners around the world to achieve this.”

Acis Group steps up to manage Mablethorpe Campus for Future Living

Stuart Pearcey
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Acis Group steps up to manage Mablethorpe Campus for Future Living
The Acis Group is to be the operator of the Campus for Future Living in Mablethorpe, which has been created by East Lindsey District Council. In partnership, the Council and Acis will bring the campus to life to deliver significant benefits to support the health and prosperity of the local community. Greg Bacon, CEO of Acis Group, said: “This is an exciting opportunity that aligns perfectly with our commitment to enhancing services, skills and education within our communities. “In proud partnership with East Lindsey District Council, we will bring our knowledge and skills of delivering for local communities that we have grown across the Group over the last 25 years. We work in Mablethorpe and surrounding areas already through Community Learning in Partnership (CLIP) which has delivered there for over 15 years, and which joined the Acis family in 2022. “Acis are thrilled to lead this project in delivering future services and helping to make a bigger difference in these communities.” The Campus for Future Living is the Council’s flagship project designed to bring transformational health, wellbeing, research and community services to this area of the Lincolnshire coast for the first time, thanks to £8.6m government funding from the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government. The vision is about creating learning opportunities, new jobs, and support for the local community. Alongside a wealth of community-based services the campus will also offer a café facility for all to enjoy. Proposed plans for the Campus by Acis include a range of activities, networking space and room hire, with each initiative designed to make a tangible difference in the community. Sited close to the Marisco Medical Centre, Mablethorpe Children’s Centre, Platform Housing and Mablethorpe Community Hub, the campus is primely positioned to become a thriving centre that links services together, creates new services that support local need and offers opportunities for learning, research and wellbeing for generations to come. This flagship and internationally significant campus benefits from the commitment of the University of Lincoln and the Lincoln Institute for Rural and Coastal Health to use the Campus as a base to conduct research and learning into health inequalities affecting coastal communities.

Parcel delivery company Evri to be acquired

Tess Egginton
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Parcel delivery company Evri to be acquired
Evri, one of the UK’s largest parcel delivery companies, based in Leeds, is set to be acquired by investor Apollo from Advent International. Since relaunching as Evri in 2022, the company has grown to become a key leader in parcel delivery, with a strong national network purpose-built for third-party e-commerce parcels and a differentiated last-mile delivery model. Today, Evri reaches nearly every household in the UK and, on average, serves more than 12 million customers per week. Apollo Private Equity Partner Alex van Hoek said: “Evri has built an enviable position in parcel delivery, with an innovative model, technology and infrastructure purpose-built for reliable, lower emissions delivery in the fast-growing e-commerce market. “We are delighted to partner with Martijn and the management team to support and invest in Evri’s continued success and expansion as an Apollo fund portfolio company.” Evri CEO Martijn de Lange said: “We are incredibly proud of the transformative changes that have enabled Evri to efficiently scale while maintaining our focus on on-time delivery and an environmentally responsible model. “We want to thank the team at Advent for their partnership over the past five years and providing the business with a strong foundation for continued expansion. In this next chapter we are excited to partner with the Apollo team to execute on the compelling growth opportunities we see ahead.” “There is strong momentum in Evri’s business and we are excited to leverage our capital and experience in logistics and transportation to serve as value-add partners in this next phase,” added Apollo’s Michael Saffer. The Evri transaction is expected to close in the third quarter of 2024.

Private equity firm invests into Hull occupational health service provider

Tess Egginton
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Private equity firm invests into Hull occupational health service provider
Private equity firm NorthEdge has invested into Latus Group (Latus), an occupational health service provider, to support the business accelerate organic growth and deliver strategic M&A. NorthEdge is backing the founders, Jack Latus (CEO), Sam Latus (COO) and Will Latus (CIO), alongside Alex Birkett (CFO) and their team of medical specialists and support staff, to deliver an ambitious plan. Latus is headquartered in Hull and works with businesses across a range of sectors to deliver world-class health strategies to support regulatory compliance; improve colleague health & wellbeing and enhance employee engagement – in turn reducing absenteeism and relieving wider pressures on the NHS through a preventative approach to health. The company’s mission is to improve access to high-quality, data-driven healthcare in the workplace. To achieve this, Latus provides a range of services across Occupational Health, Health Surveillance, Testing and Screening and Employee Wellbeing. Over the last two years, as well as delivering strong growth, the business has completed two strategic acquisitions and launched its proprietary health platform, Yodha. The on-demand platform enables customers to access digital health surveillance services, streamlining the user experience and providing better data for leadership teams to make decisions about the health & wellbeing of their workforce. NorthEdge’s investment will support the business to continue on this growth trajectory. The growth plan includes additional investment into people and the operational platform; improving commercial effectiveness; investing in customer success; and further investment into technology to support the shift to a digital health operating model. In addition, the investment will support the business to execute an M&A strategy to facilitate end-market, service-line and geographical expansion. Jack Latus, CEO of Latus, said: “We have been building our relationship with NorthEdge for two years, so the completion of this investment represents a significant milestone for us. As well as the clear cultural fit and sector experience, the NorthEdge team have already supported us to find an experienced Chair and M&A Director, alongside helping us to refine our organic growth plan and M&A strategy. “This investment will allow us to accelerate our growth and further expand our reach – delivering more high-quality occupational health services for our clients that improve health outcomes, by ensuring employees across the UK have the health support they need, whenever they need it and wherever they are.” Phil Frame, Partner at NorthEdge, said: “Latus is a leader in its field and the team have the ambition of building a business with strategic and social importance. “The business operates in a large and growing market; has a track record of delivering growth; is committed to introducing new and innovative approaches in the sector to improve health outcomes; and the team’s approach aligns perfectly with NorthEdge’s culture and values – we are delighted to have another business with these characteristics in the NorthEdge portfolio. “We are looking forward to working with Jack, Sam and Will over the coming years to support them to realise our collective ambitions and build a business that we are all proud to be a part of.” The deal was funded from NorthEdge Fund III and was led by Phil Frame, Partner, alongside Matthew Mellon and Mike Craven, Investment Managers. Phil Frame will join the board on behalf of NorthEdge, alongside Non-Executive Chair Graham Ewart.

West Yorkshire leaders approve over £40 million for roads and homes

Tess Egginton
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West Yorkshire leaders approve over £40 million for roads and homes
The first meeting of the West Yorkshire Combined Authority since the General Election has seen over £40 million approved for new housebuilding and road improvements. The meeting also saw progress towards a Local Growth Plan, outlining ambitions for deeper devolution and a single funding settlement for West Yorkshire, following a series of productive meetings between the region’s Mayor Tracy Brabin and Government Ministers. Tracy Brabin, Mayor of West Yorkshire, said: “This multi-million pound investment in our cities, towns and villages will give us the building blocks of a stronger, brighter region. “The backing of the new Government will be a gamechanger for our ambitions, allowing us to deliver more quickly and boldly through a single funding settlement. “And our Local Growth Plan will give us the tools we need to grow our economy, create well-paid jobs and put money back in people’s pockets.” In total, regional leaders agreed £43 million of new funding to support over a dozen projects. These include:
  • £1.6 million to help build 63 new homes in Wakefield’s Civic Quarter.
  • £2.2 million for a range of improvements at bus stations across West Yorkshire.
  • £13.8 million to improve traffic capacity in Kirklees.
  • £7.7 million to support cycling corridors across Leeds City Centre.
The Mayor also provided an update on the region’s Local Growth Plan, setting out her priorities to tackle low pay, poor productivity, outdated public transport infrastructure and insecure housing as well as improving skills and creating well-paid jobs. The proposed plan will encourage economic growth “at scale and pace,” with new funding and flexibilities. It will look to maximise the opportunities of devolution, including the promise of a single funding settlement from the Treasury instead of piecemeal funding with departmental restrictions.

Move to Gainsborough puts Polish food firm in prime spot for network expansion

Stuart Pearcey
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Move to Gainsborough puts Polish food firm in prime spot for network expansion
A move from Lincoln to larger premises in Gainsborough sees Polish food wholesale business, piżarnia (UK) Ltd in prime position to expand its distribution network in the UK. That’s the view of Eddisons incorporating Banks Long & Co who acted, as joint agent with CPP, on behalf of Swiss Life, on a property deal which sees the Lublin-headquartered business take a new lease on Unit 1 Peckett Plaza in Gainsborough. piżarnia (UK) Ltd has been trading since 2012 and currently supplies over 600 Polish-food specialist retail outlets in the UK through a workforce of over 80 employees. Facing the end of its lease on premises at Boulder Business Park in Lincoln, the company had been seeking new premises large enough to accommodate its business growth plans – including further local recruitment – for over a year before securing the 21,290 sq ft warehouse facility at Peckett Plaza. piżarnia (UK) Ltd operates a total of four cross-dock warehouses to fulfill its UK operations. In addition to Lincolnshire, it has others in London, Manchester and Portadown. Przemyslaw Duklas, Director, said: “We needed to maintain a Lincolnshire presence because of the county’s position on the UK logistics map for ease of goods in and out, especially access to the Eastern commercial port links with mainland Europe. “Plus, we wanted to remain in the area to not only retain our valued existing workforce, but also to tap in to the valuable local labour pool in looking to recruit to meet our business expansion plans.” Eddisons’ Cameron McRae, who led the Lincoln-based agents marketing of Unit 1 Peckett Plaza in joint agency with Sean Bremner of CPP, confirmed that piżarnia (UK) Ltd is scheduled to commence operating from its new Gainsborough premises by early autumn.

Manufacturing output expectations strongest since 2022

Tess Egginton
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Manufacturing output expectations strongest since 2022
Optimism among manufacturers fell slightly in July, after rising in April for the first time in nearly three years, according to the CBI’s latest quarterly Industrial Trends Survey. Output volumes were broadly unchanged in the quarter to July, following a similar result in the three months to June, and under-performed expectations for modest growth. However, manufacturers continue to expect output to increase over the next three months, with growth expectations the strongest since March 2022. Total new orders fell in the quarter to July but are expected to be broadly stable over the next three months. Inventory building is expected to provide some support to output in the months ahead. Stocks of work in progress are expected to rise at the fastest pace in over two years, with stocks of raw materials and finished goods also set to increase. Average cost growth accelerated compared with April and remained elevated compared to historical norms. Cost growth is expected to slow in the quarter to October, while remaining historically strong. Domestic and export price inflation also accelerated but are both expected to slow in the next three months. Meanwhile, manufacturers expect to raise their headcount in the next three months (and at the fastest pace for a year), and investment intentions for the year ahead have generally improved. Ben Jones, CBI Lead Economist, said: “Sentiment among manufacturers has cooled a little over the past few months, as output growth consistently underperformed expectations. But the near-term outlook for the sector remains positive amid an ongoing recovery in the wider UK economy. “Manufacturers appear confident that output growth will pick up in the quarter ahead, with expectations the strongest in over two years. Firms are looking to increase stock levels to meet expected demand. And the share of manufacturers working below capacity has fallen sharply over the last quarter, feeding through to a more positive outlook for both hiring and investment. “Last week’s Kings Speech, with welcome measures to reform planning and speed up approvals for major infrastructure projects, has the potential to give businesses the confidence they need to grow, invest and drive economic growth. And as the economy picks up steam, firms will want to see a relentless focus on delivery from the new government, to turn proposed measures into swift and bold action.” The survey, based on the responses of 257 manufacturing firms, found:
  • Output volumes were broadly unchanged in the quarter to July (weighted balance of -3%, from +3% in the three months to June). Firms expect volumes to grow in the next three months (+25%), the strongest expectations since March 2022.
    • Output rose in 6 out of 17 sub-sectors, with growth in the motor vehicles & transport equipment, chemicals, mechanical engineering and electrical goods sub-sectors offsetting declines in furniture & upholstery and metal manufacturing sub-sectors.
  • Total new orders fell in July, at a similar pace to the previous quarter (balance of -9% from -6% in April). Domestic orders fell through the quarter (-15% from -6%), while the volume of new export orders was broadly unchanged (+3% from -14%). Manufacturers expect total new orders to be essentially unchanged over the next three months.
  • Business sentiment fell in July, after rising in April for the first time in nearly three years (balance of -9% from +9% in April). Export optimism for the year was flat after rising last quarter (0% from +6%).
  • Investment intentions for the year ahead generally strengthened compared with April. Manufacturers expect to raise investment in product & process innovation (a balance of +18% was the strongest since January 2022, up from +15% in April), in training & retraining (+7%, from +1%), and in plant & machinery (+6%, from +2%). Investment in buildings is set to fall (-11%, from -3%).
  • The main constraint on investment was uncertainty about demand (cited by 44% of manufacturers), followed by inadequate net return (35%), a shortage of labour (20%), and a shortage of internal finance (19%). Concerns around the cost of finance have retreated from a 33-year high set in January (excluding the pandemic period) but remain double the long run average (10%).
  • Average costs rose rapidly in the quarter to July (balance of +52%, from +39% in April; long-run average of +18%). Costs growth is expected to remain elevated in the quarter to October (+36%).
  • Average domestic prices increased over the three months to July (balance of +15%, from +10% in April). Export price inflation also accelerated from April (+22% from +9%, and the fastest pace in over a year). Both domestic and export price growth are expected to slow in the next three months (+2% and +6%, respectively).
  • Stocks of work in progress (balance of +4%) rose marginally in the quarter to July, while stocks of finished goods (+2%) and of raw materials (-1%) were broadly stable.
    • Manufacturers expect stocks of work in progress (+13%) to rise at the fastest pace in over two years during the next three months, with stocks of raw materials (+7%) and of finished goods (+5%) also set to increase.
  • Numbers employed were unchanged in the quarter to July, after falling in April (balance of 0% from -6%). Firms expect numbers employed to rise modestly in the next three months (+16%).

Construction firms want to scrap the levy and the CITB, reveals survey

Stuart Pearcey
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Construction firms want to scrap the levy and the CITB, reveals survey
Almost three in four levy-paying construction firms want to scrap the levy and the CITB, according to a major new survey conducted by Survation, an independent research company, and commissioned by Hudson Contract. As a result, Hudson is calling for the CITB to be stripped of its levy-raising powers and absorbed into the new Skills England training body. The survey comes as the CITB prepares to seek industry support for renewal of its levy-raising powers, including changes that could increase bills for small and micro employers. A total of 1,042 companies responded to the survey within just a few weeks, demonstrating the strength of feelings on the topic, with only 12 per cent of all respondents saying they would keep the levy and the CITB if given the choice. Survation also asked firms for their opinion on the CITB’s plans to levy them on the use of labour providers – such as agencies, payroll firms, commercial contractors, umbrella companies – at one per cent of the total labour cost. Of the 1,042 respondents, 67 per cent said they disagreed with the change, 21 per cent would need to see a levy calculation to understand the impact before deciding and just three per cent said they agreed. Survation said: “The survey results indicate a clear and significant dissatisfaction with the current CITB levy structure and proposed changes. The majority of respondents, regardless of trade federation membership, favour scrapping the CITB levy entirely. Furthermore, there is considerable opposition to the CITB’s proposed levy changes regarding labour providers.” Hudson Contract’s Ian Anfield said: “At the last consensus in 2021, the CITB claimed that two thirds of likely levy payers agreed with its levy proposals. “If this was true, our survey findings suggest that support for the CITB has collapsed to barely one in five levy payers. This is no surprise to us as we speak to a lot of construction firms and it is very hard to find anyone that supports the CITB. In fact, many of the comments made during the survey could not be printed.” Ian added: “The CITB is currently surveying employers to find out how many use labour providers and to what extent because it is planning a new levy hike next year. This would see most small employers pay significantly more than they do now, as shown by our Freedom of Information requests. However, there is no sign of a levy calculator on the CITB’s website or any other relevant information to let people know what is coming down the pipeline. “There is a complete lack of openness despite the last government ordering the CITB to be more transparent and improve engagement with the industry at the time of the last review carried out in 2017 and led by Paul Morrell. “Publication of the latest government review of the CITB, this time led by Mark Farmer, was due to be published months ago but has been delayed yet again amid reports it is heavily critical of the training board’s performance. “We believe the new government has a perfect opportunity with the creation of Skills England to scrap the CITB and its levy and roll them into the new national training body. “Skills England will gain functions from the failing Institute for Apprenticeships and Technical Education (IfATE), which was previously led by Peter Lauener, who now chairs the CITB. With a brace of failures, one wonders where he will pop up next! “The skills shortages in construction are shared across manufacturing, the care sector, the armed forces and education. So why construction has to have two levies and two skills bodies makes no sense. A joined-up approach across the board to link school leavers and colleges with employers in all industries, would work better for everyone and fit with the government’s plans.’’

Phil Nolan to step down as Chair of ABP, with Jon Lewis taking over in September

Stuart Pearcey
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Phil Nolan to step down as Chair of ABP, with Jon Lewis taking over in September
ABP has appointed of Jonathan (Jon) Lewis as its Chair to succeed Dr Phil Nolan who has decided to stand down from the role. Jon brings decades of business leadership experience, predominantly in major infrastructure sectors such as energy, engineering and construction. He has held CEO roles at AmecFosterWheeler plc and, most recently, Capita plc, where he led both organisations through periods of growth and transformation. Jon is currently a Non-Executive Director of Equinor, a global leader in the energy transition, where his role includes being Chair of the Safety, Sustainability and Ethics Committee. Jon is expected to take up the role after completion of ABP’s Board meeting in September, at which point Phil will step down. Phil, Jon and the Board will work together in advance of this handover point to ensure a smooth transition. He said: “I’m excited to be taking on the Chair role at Associated British Ports. As an island nation, ports have been vital to the UK for millennia. But their importance and contribution has never been greater as they maintain their historic role as our main gateways for global trade and play an increasingly pivotal new role as enablers of the energy transition. “The opportunity to join ABP, the sector leader, and continue the transformation of the company and its portfolio is exciting, and I look forward to working with the Board, Henrik and the Executive Team to deliver on the strategy.” Phil Nolan said: “Jon brings a great combination of senior leadership in relevant sectors, technical understanding and experience of steering businesses through transformation to growth. I’ve thoroughly enjoyed my time at ABP. It’s been a great privilege to be Chair and I’m proud of what the business has achieved through testing times. The foundations have been laid for a strong and sustainable future and I’m confident that Jon will take it from strength to strength.” Henrik L. Pedersen, CEO of ABP, said: “The Board and Company of ABP extends its huge thanks to Phil for successfully steering ABP through seven transformational years as Chair, during which Phil has steered ABP through the challenges of the COVID pandemic, Brexit and major global supply chain upheavals. Despite these challenges ABP has continued to grow and thrive, with the Board under Phil’s leadership supporting a programme of ambitious investment and increased involvement with the green energy sector. “We look forward to welcoming Jon as Chair. His deep experience of businesses in the major infrastructure and capital projects delivery sectors will be invaluable to ABP. In particular his engagement with the energy transition through his roles at AmecFosterWheeler and Equinor is directly applicable to ABP’s green growth mission, a key to our future success.”

Wakefield warehouse changes hands in major investment deal

Tess Egginton
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Wakefield warehouse changes hands in major investment deal
A 296,500 sq ft distribution warehouse at South Elmsall, that is let to high street giant Superdrug, has changed hands for more than £17m. The building has been sold by a client of global asset management group, Columbia Threadneedle Investments. It has been bought by Arrow Capital Partners, the specialist investor, developer and manager of real estate in Europe and Asia-Pacific, for its Strategic Industrial Real Estate joint venture with Cerberus. Columbia Threadneedle Investments was advised by Leeds property consultancy, GV&Co’s investment division and M1 Agency advised Arrow Capital Partners. The warehouse sits in an 18-acre site and is let to Superdrug Stores Plc, which has occupied the facility for almost 34 years since it was built. Daniel Walker, from GV&Co, said: “This is a high quality, mission-critical asset located close to the A1M, as well as offering easy access to the M62 and M1, making it an integral part of Superdrug’s distribution network. We are delighted to have secured the off-market sale to Arrow and complete the final part of our client’s asset management strategy for the property.” Robert Howe, head of real estate, Europe, at Arrow Capital Partners, said: “This transaction reflects our ongoing commitment to acquire mission-critical assets offering strong reversionary potential for our SIRE joint venture. “Our focus remains on identifying and acquiring standing investment and development opportunities that offer strong potential for value creation and sustainable returns for our investors.”

Sunny Bank Mills adds another string to its bow

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Sunny Bank Mills adds another string to its bow
Quicks Archery, one of the oldest archery retailers in the world, has moved into the Sunny Bank Mills complex at Farsley, near Leeds. Quicks, which is owned and run by archery specialist Pete Bowers, has taken a five-year lease on a state-of-the-art studio and shop in the Mending Rooms, an historic Georgian mill which has undergone an extensive modernisation programme. During the past 11 years Sunny Bank Mills, one of the most famous family-owned mills in Yorkshire, has been transformed into a modern office and mixed-use complex for the 21st century, creating over 450 sustainable new jobs. Pete, who lives in Halifax, explained that he has been looking for a base in Leeds after a rival archery retailer closed in the city. He commented: “We already have shops in the south of England and Lancashire, but I wanted a Leeds location to spread our reach. When I saw the Mending Rooms studio at Sunny Bank Mills, I was blown away. It had exactly the right ambience and character for our shop, with its traditional rustic feel of exposed brickwork, cast iron features and a rich history. “Meanwhile the community at Sunny Bank Mills is amazing. Everything is on our doorstep, with the ancillary facilities, such as parking, disabled access and cafes, a tremendous plus. The whole atmosphere of the Mills complex is family friendly, attracting exactly the kind of clients synonymous with our trade. “I’d like to add that landlords William and John Gaunt have been incredibly helpful. They are responsive, sympathetic and very patient with our requests.” Quicks, together with its sister company Podium, is sponsoring two archers representing Team GB at the Paris Olympics, Briony Pitman and Tom Hall. John Gaunt, joint managing director of Edwin Woodhouse & Co Ltd, the owners of Sunny Bank Mills, said: “We are delighted to welcome Pete and his shop manager Deborah Waterhouse to Sunny Bank Mills. Quicks, with its superb global reputation, really adds to the diverse mix of quality retail and leisure occupiers we have at Sunny Bank Mills. We wish Pete and Deborah the best of luck here and know, given their passion, they will thrive. “In addition to our offices and arts studios, we now have cafes, restaurants, a brewery, a gin-maker, a jeweller, a yoga studio, an art gallery and the Old Woollen events space. It is this diverse offer, which we work so hard to achieve, that makes Sunny Bank Mills not just a wonderful place to work but also a great place to visit and spend time at as well.”

Kier Group prepares for formal handover of Bradford’s revamped Darley Street Market

Stuart Pearcey
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The new Darley Street Market building in Bradford is completed ready for the Bradford Council is preparing for the fit-out stage following next week’s formal handover from construction partners Kier Group. Councillor Alex Ross-Shaw, Bradford Council’s Executive Member for Regeneration, Planning and Transport said: “Getting to this stage is a major milestone in this once in a generation regeneration project. We’re now moving into the fit-out stage working with traders to ensure the stalls that they are moving to are of a high standard and meet the needs of their business. We are aiming for the new Darley Street Market to be ready to be open later in the year.” The top floor of the building is where the food and drink hall will be, featuring a traditional bar area, a stall selling fresh coffee, as well as a bar selling non-alcoholic drinks including mocktails. Hot food stalls from around the world include Mexican, Greek, Asian, Italian, Thai/Cantonese as well as an ice-cream parlour. This floor also has a balcony area which looks out on to the Market Square. The middle floor is all things fresh food including butchers, fishmongers, greengrocer and delicatessen. Non-food stall will be located on the ground floor including haberdashery, hair and nail salons, gifts, jewellery, mobile phone accessories and clothes. Also on the ground floor will be cafés which lead out on to the spectacular Market Square, which features a big screen and can hold around 500 people for events and concerts. The square also has a special umbrella system which can be used for undercover pop-up market stalls and events.

Business behind UKREiiF acquired

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Business behind UKREiiF acquired

Infopro Digital, a French business information services company, has acquired Built Environment Networking Ltd, which runs UKREiiF, the event for the real estate, property and infrastructure communities held in Leeds.

This acquisition will strengthen Infopro Digital’s position as an international B2B trade show and event provider in the construction and public sector vertical. In France, Infopro Digital already runs SIMI, a trade show that attracts 26,000 attendees and has strong similarities to UKREiiF.

UKREiiF enhances Infopro Digital’s presence in the UK, where it runs brands such as Risk.net (Risk management), Haynes (Automotive) and Barbour ABI (Construction) and operates five offices with more than 450 staff.

“UKREiiF has become a leading brand in the real estate, property and infrastructure sector, resembling the success we have achieved with SIMI in France. We are excited to partner with the management team and help UKREiiF with its expansion goals,” said Julien Elmaleh, Group CEO with Infopro Digital.

“UKREiiF has become a key event for the real estate, property and infrastructure communities in a short time. We admired how it achieved this by offering relevant content, high-quality networking and a great delegate experience. We also recognise the huge efforts it made to support equality, diversity and inclusion,” said Christophe Czajka, Founder and Executive Chairman of Infopro Digital.

“Infopro Digital is the ideal partner to continue the development of our event, ensuring that the values and quality of UKREiiF are preserved. I am confident that under their stewardship, UKREiiF will reach new heights and continue to serve our community with excellence,” said Keith Griffiths, Founder of Built Environment Networking Ltd.

Huddersfield business gets £20m funding package from HSBC

Stuart Pearcey
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Huddersfield business gets £20m funding package from HSBC

Huddersfield-based global brand consultancy Principle Global is gearing up for international expansion after securing an eight-figure funding package from HSBC UK.

Principle Global will use the £20 million HSBC UK funding package as a platform for growth into new and existing international markets, targeting the UK, US, Europe & MENA regions. As a result, the company is expecting to strengthen the Management Team for the next generation of growth across multiple offices and generate double digit turnover growth over the next 12 months.

Company Chairman Richard Butterfield said: “As we are dedicated to enhance our offering globally, we knew we had to find a banking partner that bolstered our vision in becoming a world leading brand strategy, experience, design and implementation organisation.

“With the support of HSBC UK, we can strengthen our business model in the UK while expanding our teams internationally and collaborating with an even more diverse array of companies in new markets. The next twelve months promise to be incredibly exciting for Principle Global as we embark on this journey of growth.”

Mike Edwards, Relationship Director at HSBC UK, added: “HSBC UK is committed to offering support that empowers businesses to create new jobs, secure new business and reach ambitious international expansion plans. We are excited to be part of Principle Global’s journey and to help them unlock new opportunities across international markets.”

Founded in 1987, Principle Global provides brand consultancy in more than 70 countries and employs over 700 individuals across the company. Principle Global clients include the automative giants Jaguar Land Rover and Jeep, as well as Bupa, Specsavers and O&CC, the largest outdoor retailer in the UK. Principle Global was advised by Squire Patton Boggs during the deal process.

 

Former apprentice earns seat on the Board at Lindum Group

Stuart Pearcey
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Former apprentice earns seat on the Board at Lindum Group
Lindum Group has appointed Richard Shaw to membership of its Executive Board. He joined the company as an apprentice on a YTS placement in 1988, and has progressed through the business since, being made MD of its Building Maintenance Services business in 2020. Edward Chambers, Co-chairman of Lindum Group, said: “Richard has shown considerable commitment and loyalty to the business and will continue in his existing role, whilst having greater involvement across the Group.” Richard is a member of the Lindum ‘Sock Club’, comprising past and present employees with at least 25 years of service in the business. Richard said: “I’m delighted to be appointed to the executive board. It is a great honour. When I joined Lindum as an eighteen year old, I never dreamed I would still be here all these years later. “I didn’t know for sure I’d even get the job as I failed woodwork at school – but the support and training I’ve been given at Lindum means I have been able to enjoy a varied and interesting career.”

Goole cricketers raise £24,000 for East Yorkshire charities

Stuart Pearcey
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Goole cricketers raise £24,000 for East Yorkshire charities
Siemens Mobility and its partners have raised £24,000 for East Yorkshire charities with the second Goole Cricket Day. The event at Goole Town Cricket Club featured teams and donors from Siemens Mobility and its customers and partners, including Angel Trains, GMI Construction Group, Knorr-Bremse, Porterbrook, Transport for London, Morson Group and Rock Rail. Money raised will be shared across five charities; East Riding Imagination Library, Two Rivers Community Pantry, Friends of Oakhill, Goole Amateur Boxing Club and the Goole and District Community Transport Group (Goole GoFar). Mark Speed, General Manager of Siemens Mobility at Goole said: “Over and above the trains and components we build and maintain at our Rail Village, an important part of our commitment to Goole is supporting the community in which we sit. A day like today is one such opportunity to contribute.” “I would like to thank our customers and partners for their generous donations and participation and to Goole Town Cricket Club for again hosting us. This fundraising is part of our continued engagement with the local community, as we play an increasing part in the local economy.” Councillor Anne Handley, Leader of East Riding of Yorkshire Council, and Ward Councillor for Goole North said: “It is fantastic to see Siemens Mobility’s continued support for Goole and the wider community. Working across Goole and the East Riding as the leader of the council, it is clear to see that the Siemens investment is the most significant development across the area. “Not only are Siemens creating hundreds of jobs directly, but their investment has also attracted investment from other businesses, who are now also investing in the area and creating new jobs. “Outside of my role on the council I also run Two Rivers Community Foodbank, where we offer a wide variety of support to people who are struggling, and the support from Siemens enables us to extend our reach even further.” Sir David Davis, MP for Goole and Pocklington, said: “It’s great to have Goole within my constituency again and I was thrilled to attend the Siemens Goole Charity Cricket Day as my first official appointment since being re-elected. “Siemens Mobility’s new train factory is absolutely central to the development happening in Goole, with the creation of hundreds of new highly-skilled jobs, which are bringing much-needed opportunities for local people “Siemens is one of the biggest employers in the area, but this event shows how Siemens is supporting the town in other ways too, becoming fully integrated into the community and supporting important causes.” A number of other partners, including Tidyco, Rubix and Hayley Rail, were unable to attend on the day but made generous donations, contributing to the impressive total raised. The Deep Tube Commissioning Team (representing London Underground) won the competition, beating a Siemens Manufacturing Team in the final.

Northern Powerhouse Partnership launches Net Zero report at Sheffield Forgemasters

Stuart Pearcey
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Northern Powerhouse Partnership launches Net Zero report at Sheffield Forgemasters
Northern Powerhouse Partnership has launched its Net Zero Report, setting out the economic benefits of working towards Net Zero for the North of England. The report outlines the key benefits of green energy for manufacturers across the North, including skilled jobs creation, and looks at the challenges of decarbonising industry for heavy energy users. Luminaries attending the launch at Sheffield Forgemasters included South Yorkshire Mayor, Oliver Coppard, Harry Keeling, Head of Business Development at Rolls-Royce SMR, Professor Denise Bower, Director For External Engagement at Mott McDonald, Natalie Boswell, Regional Development Director at Lloyds Banking Group and Henri Murison, CEO at the Northern Powerhouse Partnership and Andrew McPhillips, Chief Economist at the Northern Powerhouse Partnership. Forgemasters CEO Gary Nutter gave an introduction to Sheffield Forgemasters, explaining the company’s position,  as a key manufacturer into technologies such as SMR nuclear and offshore renewable energy, whilst COO Gareth Barker joined the panel to discuss the value of training and apprenticeships for the green energy markets.

Fatalities is farming are twenty times more likely than industrial average, new figures reveal

Stuart Pearcey
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Fatalities is farming are twenty times more likely than industrial average, new figures reveal
Agriculture has the poorest safety record of any occupation in the country, according to figures just released by the HSE, with fatalities at least 20 times more likely than any other industry.
NFU Deputy President and Farm Safety Partnership chair David Exwood said every number was a personal tragedy, after news that 27 people lost their lives in the year to March 2024 in England, Wales and Scotland. Release of the figures marked the start of Farm Safety Week – a campaign managed and funded by the Farm Safety Foundation (Yellow Wellies). The 2024 campaign will focus on the importance of recognising and recording near-misses.
Despite accounting for only 1% of the working population, agriculture accounts for 20% of all deaths in the workplace. Nearly 40% of farm workers killed were over the age of 65. Four members of the public were killed, two of which were children. Mr Exwood added: “Our sector must work on improving the culture of farm safety. You are 21 times more likely to have a fatal accident working in agriculture than any other industry and frustratingly the risks and necessary precautions are well known and understood.
“This isn’t about time or money. Nothing costs more than a serious accident or death in a business, and the effect on what are often family members can be devastating. This is about putting safety first in simple, cost-effective ways that will mean everyone goes home at the end of the working day.” The Farm Safety Foundation has said the industry needs to address the attitude to risk-taking and poor safety behaviours, adding that “we cannot let this continue”. This year marks ten years of the Farm Safety Foundation and while the charity says it is proud of what has been achieved so far, today’s figures highlight “there is so much more to be done to address the risks and dangers farm workers face every day to put food on our plates”. Stephanie Berkeley, Farm Safety Foundation manager said: “Attitudes and behaviours around farm safety are changing but the pace of change is slow – too slow for the families of those we have lost in the industry and too slow for the thousands of farmers suffering every day with long term ill-health or serious injuries as a result of their work.”  

Last calls goes out to find inspirational women

Stuart Pearcey
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Last calls goes out to find inspirational women
Just a month remains to nominate the region’s inspirational women for the Women of Achievement Awards, with entries close on Tuesday 27th August. Organised by not-for-profit networking group Women in Business Hull, the biennial awards celebrate the achievements of women who are raising the bar in business, blazing a trail for other women to follow in the workplace, or making an outstanding contribution in their profession or to the community. Caroline Neadley, chair of Women in Business Hull, said: “Women in business rarely shout about their amazing achievements, which is why we’re encouraging people to nominate their friends, their families and work colleagues for one of our awards. You can, of course, also nominate yourself – in fact, we would encourage it! “We’ve had some brilliant nominations so far, and we’re looking forward to reading more about the outstanding women across the region who are doing incredible work.” Janet Street-Porter is to be this year’s guest speaker, and will be discussing her vast career spanning across print, radio and broadcast for over 50 years. Taking place on Friday 15th November from 12-5pm at the Mecure Hotel in Willerby, there are nine categories available to enter, with the judges deciding on an overall Women of Achievement Award winner. Carol Ideson, founder of Carol Ideson Funding and Advice, and 2022 overall Women of Achievement Award winner, said of her experience: “Winning this award was truly astonishing and has given me a huge sense of pride. The amazing support I have received from Women in Business since winning the award has validated my hard work through the years and will forever be the pinnacle of my career.”
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