Sustainable aviation fuel project set for Saltend
px Group has revealed that OXCCU will develop a First-of-a-Kind (FOAK) demonstration plant at its Saltend Chemicals Park in the Humber that will convert carbon dioxide and green hydrogen into sustainable aviation fuel (SAF).
OXCCU is a carbon-to-value company that develops catalysts and processes to convert carbon dioxide and green hydrogen into fuels, chemicals and plastics.
The climate-tech spin-out from the University of Oxford has demonstrated the world’s first direct carbon dioxide (CO2) hydrogenation process, turning CO2 directly into aviation fuel range hydrocarbons, also known as SAF, with minimal oxygenate byproducts.
The project presents a novel approach to SAF production simplifying a multi-step process to a single step.
OXCCU will now build a First-of-a-Kind (FOAK) demonstration plant at Saltend Chemicals Park, which will be fed by biogenic carbon dioxide, and green hydrogen. The plant is expected to produce 160 kilos (200 litres) of liquid fuel per day, of which the majority will be SAF.
The approach directly aligns with the Advanced Fuel Fund’s objective to use carbon dioxide as a carbon source for SAF production due to feedstock concerns at scale with the other biofuel SAF routes.
px Group will provide the engineering design and construction of the Outside Battery Limits (OSBL) support facilities as well as operations and maintenance when the plant is up and running. The plan is for operations to start in 2026.
The project has been announced at a time when the UK Government has developed a framework to cement the UK’s status as a world leader in SAF, with a SAF mandate and a revenue certainty scheme to boost uptake and help create jobs.
The Government has committed to having at least five commercial SAF plants under construction in the UK by 2025, viewing low or zero emission technologies as key to sustainability targets.
Geoff Holmes, CEO of px Group, said: “We are truly excited to be working with OXCCU on a world’s first project that will shape the long-term sustainability of the UK aviation industry.
“At px Group we are passionate about cutting CO2 emissions and helping the UK to meet its sustainability ambitions.
“This groundbreaking project with OXCCU further meets this commitment and demonstrates the confidence in Saltend as a pioneering centre for industrial decarbonisation projects.”
Andrew Symes, CEO of OXCCU, said: “The strategic combination of OXCCU’s highly efficient novel catalyst and process with px Group’s world leading facilities creates the perfect environment for us to scale-up.
“This project will demonstrate CO2 and hydrogen directly converted into jet fuel-range hydrocarbons and the potential for much lower cost SAF.
“We look forward to working with px Group on this exciting step for the global aviation industry.”
The announcement with OXCCU follows the Hydrogen-to-Humber H2H Saltend decarbonisation project recently being granted planning permission. Equinor’s H2H Saltend is a 600-megawatt low carbon hydrogen production plant with carbon capture, one of the first of its kind and scale to be granted planning permission in the UK, helping to establish the Humber as an international hub for low carbon hydrogen whilst significantly reducing carbon emissions.
px Group is backed by Ara Partners, a private equity company specialising in decarbonisation investments. OXCCU is backed by investors including IP group (Kiko), Clean Energy Ventures, United Airlines, Eni, Aramco Ventures and Trafigura.
Seaford chef Amy to appear at Port of Grimsby Heritage Open Day
Grimsby-born seafood chef Amy Salisbury is to be one of the headliners at the Port of Grimsby Heritage Open Day on September 14th representing the Made Great in Grimsby brand.
Theme for the day is a celebration of trade routes and connections, exploring the major roles the port has played over the years and to the present day with global connections.and who will be cooking up a storm in the marquee with a seafood demonstration alongside Grimsby’s Master Fishmonger, Ivan Jaines-White.
Simon Bird, ABP’s Regional Director of the Humber ports said: “Our heritage open days grow year on year and it’s great to see the support made by visitors all interested in the amazing work being carried out in our port at Grimsby.
“We’re pleased to see the seafood sector represented and we can’t wait to see what Amy will be cooking. The event this year will be spectacular as more of the buildings have been transformed and visitors will have an opportunity to explore inside.”
Amy Salisbury, founder of seafood brand Particular & Co, and Ambassador of Made Great in Grimsby said: “I’m looking forward to you all joining me on my fishy mission in my hometown of Grimsby at this year’s Heritage Open Day.
“I’ll be talking all things fish and cooking up some fishy delights that will inspire you to get cooking our delicious seafood at home. I’m thrilled to be representing the Grimsby Fish Merchants Association’s Made Great in Grimsby at this year’s Heritage Open Day, together we can show how Great Grimsby really is!”
Ivan Jaines-White was awarded Master Fishmonger accreditation in 2019 by the Worshipful Company of Fishmongers. He has had a long and varied history with the seafood sector in the town, and currently delivers filleting training courses at the Seafood Village as a consultant to the industry.
The Made Great in Grimsby brand signifies the scale and importance of the Grimsby seafood processing sector that today directly employs over 5,500 jobs in the region and supports employment of over 10,000 job roles in the supply-chain. Trade in sustainable fish and seafood for all over the world is important to the cluster with much of its seafood arriving in the ABP ports of Grimsby and Immingham.
Assured Group moves into first northern base
A trio of companies dedicated to helping others run smart, clean and smooth-running workplaces has moved into their own new premises. Acerta, Logic 360 and Chemisure, all subsidiaries of Assured Group Ltd, have taken on a shared space at Platinum Park in Doncaster.
Assured Group has purchased the new-build 2,250 square foot unit to provide the three UK-wide enterprises with their first northern base.
Acerta delivers facilities management, property maintenance, small projects and contract services to clients. Logic 360 provides recruitment and workforce management support and services. And, Chemisure supplies chemicals, consumables and equipment to businesses for vehicle and property cleaning.
The aim of their new Doncaster base is to strengthen their presence in the north. Existing Assured Group bases are in Warwick, Shrewsbury and Colnbrook, near Heathrow Airport.
The unit combines an office facility for training, development and meetings and a warehouse hub to improve efficiency – and reduce the carbon footprint – of deliveries across the north.
Managing Director of Acerta, Richard George, who has led on the purchase and fit-out, said: “We wanted to establish a base in Doncaster to give us representation in the north and provide a quality working environment for our dedicated teams who mostly work remotely across 200-plus clients’ sites.“We’re very pleased with our investment and have already seen the benefit of bringing everyone together, in terms of improved interaction and development. The team love it and we only anticipate expansion here in Doncaster.”
Acerta has designed and built every aspect of the unit’s interior, from creative concept and planning through to electrical and plumbing details. This means the office and warehouse facility also acts as a showcase for Acerta in the fitting-out of workspaces.
Richard said: “We’d welcome anyone to come and have a look at what we’ve done here. We’ve put a lot of effort into making sure our workplace is quite quirky, stylish and meets our needs. When existing and potential clients come to see us, it shows what we can offer to others.”
Platinum Park and neighbouring Jubilee Park are new developments by Priority Space, in partnership with H.G. Sites, bringing 16 new industrial and warehousing units to the region’s commercial property market.Director of Priority Space Lee Buchanan said: “It’s great to see Assured Group investing in the purchase of one of our Doncaster units to strengthen its portfolio of workplaces across the UK.
“Opportunities for owner-occupiers are still quite rare in the commercial property market, and it remains a USP for us, as an independent developer of speculative new-builds, that we’re committed to giving businesses the option to buy, rather than let, premises.
“In our experience, we often see that owning their own premises enables many businesses to more confidently and quickly invest in growth.”
New partnership to boost sustainability of start-ups
Business experts at Leeds Beckett University have teamed up with marketing agency, GOLD79, in a new partnership to boost the long-term growth and sustainability of start-up businesses across the UK.
A new programme – GOLD79 MINE – has been launched as a collaboration between Leeds Business School at Leeds Beckett and GOLD79. The programme will support talented and entrepreneurial individuals who want to start their own businesses through academic consultancy, expert business support services, mentoring, networking, business infrastructure and financial support.
GOLD79, which has offices in Leeds and London, will also invest a minimum of 10 per cent of its profits into an investment fund for MINE members each year.
Professor Lebene Soga, Academic Director of the Centre for Entrepreneurship and Knowledge Exchange at Leeds Business School, said: “GOLD79’s collaboration with Leeds Beckett University in the launch of GOLD79 MINE is a testament to our shared commitment to fostering innovation in the vibrant Leeds City Region and beyond.
“Through GOLD79 MINE, we aim to provide a dynamic environment for students, graduates, academics and wider talent from the marketing industry to collaborate with entrepreneurial minds, echoing our dedication to driving growth and sustainability in the marketing agency scene.
“This partnership exemplifies our role as an anchor institution, proudly working alongside GOLD79 to offer a central hub in Leeds for engaging with entrepreneurial marketing people, supporting their resilience, and contributing to the overall success for our community.”
A key criterion for all businesses applying to the MINE programme is that they must operate within the guidelines and parameters of both B-Corp and Net Zero.
A series of 12 modules will be delivered over the course of the 12-month programme, with a selection of sessions delivered by Leeds Business School at The Knowledge Exchange business hub at the Rose Bowl in Leeds city centre. Professor Soga has inputted his academic know-how into all modules across the programme, which will be delivered by a range of academic and industry experts across a broad range of themes.
Tamarind Wilson-Flint, co-Founder of GOLD79, said: “We’ve always believed in the transformative power of entrepreneurship. From our beginnings 20 years ago with Jet2.com and Jet2holidays as our first and only client, to becoming industry leaders with a global presence through our L’Attitude network, our journey has been shaped by our ability to spot new opportunities and grow our business.
“Now, the launch of the MINE Programme represents a new chapter for GOLD79. We’re not just looking to the future; we’re actively shaping it. By fostering a community of entrepreneurs, we hope to create a ripple effect that extends far beyond our immediate reach. Our partnership with Leeds Beckett University underscores our commitment to education, innovation, and community engagement.
“Entrepreneurship has the power to transform lives, economies, and societies. It’s a path filled with challenges, but also immense rewards. Through MINE, we’re excited to support the next wave of entrepreneurs, helping them navigate their journeys and achieve their dreams.”
Inflation returns to target
Inflation has returned to the Bank of England’s 2% target for the first time since July 2021.
Measured by the consumer prices index (CPI), which rose by 2% in the 12 months to May 2024, it is down from 2.3% in the 12 months to April.
The biggest downward contribution to the fall in inflation came from food-price inflation, which dipped to 1.7% in May, the lowest annual rate since October 2021. This was partially offset by higher petrol prices.
The UK has also won the international race to get back to target, being the first among the euro area and US to bring headline inflation back down to 2%. In fact, the UK currently has the lowest headline inflation rate in the G7 bar Italy.
Despite this, the impacts of sustained high inflation over the past three years will remain for some time, with the relative cost of essential goods expected to remain high.
The Resolution Foundation notes that overall prices have risen by 22% since July 2021 (when inflation was last at 2%), while energy prices have risen by 66% and food by 31%.
Core inflation, meanwhile, which takes out volatile factors like energy, food, alcohol and tobacco to give a clear picture of underlying trends, rose by 3.5% in the 12 months to May 2024, down from 3.9% in April.
James Smith, Research Director at the Resolution Foundation, said: “It’s very welcome to see headline CPI inflation falling back to its 2 per cent target for the first time since July 2021. And while the UK experienced a higher inflation peak during the cost-of-living crisis, it has now got back to target more quickly than either the US or euro area.
“But the legacy of a long period of very high inflation means there is unlikely to be much of a feel-good factor among families, as they continue to struggle with the higher cost of essentials.
“And while headline inflation is back to normal levels, domestically-driven services-price inflation remains elevated. This inflation will worry the Bank of England, and may give pause for thought when it comes to cutting interest rates.”
“Inflation returns to target, but Bank of England is unlikely to fire starting gun on interest rate cuts tomorrow,” noted Yael Selfin, Chief Economist at KPMG UK.
“The Bank of England will be encouraged by the slowdown in headline inflation, and while concerns will remain over elevated underlying price pressures, further falls in services inflation are anticipated over the coming months. Today’s data are unlikely to spur a surprise rate cut tomorrow, however, the MPC could have sufficient evidence to begin its easing cycle in August.
“While underlying price pressures have moderated somewhat, they remain uncomfortably high, with services inflation running at 5.7%. The Bank will need to see a continued fall in services inflation before it can be confident that headline inflation will stay sustainably at its 2% target in the medium term. A slower pace of pay rises may lead to weakening services inflation, helped by a loosening labour market.
“Energy prices continue to present a risk for the UK inflation outlook. Wholesale gas prices have risen by more than 30% since the start of April, and if prices remain at this level into the autumn, household energy bills could potentially rise again in October. Nevertheless, the overall outlook for inflation remains broadly positive, and we expect headline inflation to hover around the target range over the coming months.”
AmbiSpace secures £50k enterprise funding
Sensory room design and installation specialists, AmbiSpace, have secured £50,000 in funding from Doncaster-based Finance For Enterprise (FFE) to support their business growth.
Founded in 2016 by Kevin Wheatley, AmbiSpace leads the way in the design and manufacture of inclusive sensory solutions for individuals with special educational needs, learning difficulties, disabilities, and neurodiversity. The company has received prestigious awards for its innovative sensory technology and products that enhance accessibility in public spaces.
In November 2021, AmbiSpace expanded its production capabilities by adding fibre optic lighting manufacturing. This addition enables the company to produce fibre optic carpets, strands, and light guides for sensory, aviation, medical, commercial, and industrial clients both in the UK and internationally. To accommodate this increased production, AmbiSpace needed new premises to support further growth.
Finance For Enterprise, which previously assisted AmbiSpace with a Start Up Loan in 2016, was approached again to help cover the costs of relocating and setting up the necessary machinery and equipment for expanded fibre optic lighting production.
The move to new premises will also create six new jobs, contributing to the local economy.
Tim Daniels, Senior Business Lending Manager at Finance For Enterprise, said: “Having supported Kevin with previous funding requirements, it was my pleasure to help AmbiSpace secure new funding. The business operates in a highly specialised sector with increasing demand and investment as the need to support people with SEN grows.”
Kevin Wheatley, Managing Director at AmbiSpace, said: “For over 20 years, the people at AmbiSpace have crafted customised sensory experiences that make environments more accessible and engaging for the individuals we assist. We are grateful for the support from Tim and the Finance For Enterprise team in helping us achieve our goals.”
New head office and increased warehouse capacity for Hull logistics firm
TEPS, a Hull-based family-run commercial haulage, storage, and distribution company, and part of John Good Group, has opened a new head office facility and increased warehouse capacity.
The multi-million-pound investment in the new facilities amplifies TEPS’ advanced logistics and inventory management systems, significantly enhancing the operational efficiency and capacity.
With the new 25,000 sq ft warehouse, capable of housing 5,000 pallets, TEPS have increased their capacity to nearly 200,000 sq ft, helping meet the demand for TEPS’ services. This new facility is an inward investment into the Hull and East Yorkshire region, showing its confidence in the economy and for future progression.
The new offices have been furnished with repurposed materials from other locations within the group and solar energy has been implemented onto the warehouse, both minimising the build’s environmental impact.
Managing Director of TEPS, Paul Fordon, says: “Our new warehouse and office space marks a significant milestone for TEPS. Our team are thriving in their new home, and this is just the beginning of scaling our operations into our new warehouse facility where we will showcase our commitment to operational excellence.
“This next step for TEPS is a testament to our 3rd generation family business. The project team, led by Havercroft, have done an incredible job. They should be congratulated for what they have delivered for the business.”
Adam Walsh, CEO of John Good Group, adds: “I’m pleased for Paul and the team that the project has been completed and we’re now back to being fully operational. Projects like this always come with challenges, both in terms of the infrastructure build itself, but also in keeping a safe and productive business running at the same time. I’m pleased to say the team at TEPS achieved both.
“I’d like to extend my thanks to Havercroft for the way they partnered with us to turn our ambitions for the site into reality. It’s been a big investment by the John Good Group, and we’re really pleased with the outcome. A great job by all the contractors who worked on the site.
“Now the real work starts as we make the most of our new facilities for our customers and employees. We’ve delivered a great environment for our people, and with Paul and the team at TEPS very focused on efficiency and service, we’ve got a great platform for growth with our customers.”
TEPS was founded by Alan Fordon, grandfather of the current Managing Director, Paul Fordon. In recognition of the contribution and 68-year commitment that the Fordon family has brought, the John Good Group has fittingly named their new headquarters ‘Fordon House’.
Judges announce shortlist for Gainsborough DN21 Awards
Judges for the Gainsborough DN21 Awards have announced their shortlist of hopefuls this week as the countdown starts for the return of the glittering awards ceremony in July.
Dozens of businesses across the DN21 postcode have entered the awards which have returned after four years. The winners will be announced at the awards ceremony on July 25 at Thonock Park in Gainsborough, bookings are now open for the event.
The awards have been organised by the team at Marshall’s Yard and sponsored by West Lindsey District Council.
Centre Manager at Marshall’s Yard, Melissa Cutforth said: “We are so excited to be bringing the DN21 Awards back this year, it’s a great opportunity for us to highlight the fantastic companies we have here in the town.
“We have a really great line up of shortlisted entrants and we can’t wait to announce the winners on the night. Bookings are now open for the event on July 25 and we’re expecting there to be a lot of interest in tickets, so please do book early.”
Chairman of West Lindsey District Council, Cllr Stephen Bunney, said: “What a high quality of entrants we have had for the return of the DN21 Awards. The judges have had a really tough job shortlisting our finalists.
“Gainsborough is a great, entrepreneurial town with some fantastic businesses – we’re really pleased to have the opportunity to focus on the innovation and excellence in town with these awards. A huge well done to every single company that has been shortlisted.”
The shortlisted companies are:
Customer Service Team of the Year – sponsored by Visiting Angels
- The Range
- Browns Department Store
- McDonald’s
- Williamsons Farm
- Grosvenor House care home
- Kixx Gainsborough
- Wallace & Dough
- Paul Fox
- Dandelion & Duck
- No.17 Coffee & Cocktails
- Horsley’s
- The Florist
- L & J Fitters
- Clock House
- Grosvenor House Care Home
- Samantha Thornhill – Gainsborough Car Wash
- Clive Anderson – Elite Signs Ltd
- Hayden Denman – Kixx Gainsborough
- Elaine Bielby – Jack in the Box Musical Memories
- Helen Lynes – The Range
- Ian Anderson – SIS Glazing & Projects
- Ultimate Graphics
- Dandelion & Duck
- The Secret Sanctuary
- Hays Travel Gainsborough
- Caldero Lounge
- The Secret Sanctuary
- Cowley’s
- L & J Fitters
- TNY Electrical
- Uncle Henrys Farm Shop
- Helix 50
- Grosvenor House Care Home / JOSA AC
Small firms fear international supply chain could ‘crumble’ without Government intervention, says FSB
Small firms say the “supply chain could crumble” over the next five years unless the new Government prioritises international trade, according to the Federation of Small Businesses.
Figures from the FSB show that one in five small firms are worried about the costs of exports and imports over the next five years, whilst one in four would like to see a reduction in the cost and time it takes to import and export.
Tina McKenzie, FSB’s Policy Chair, said: “International trade fuels progress and fresh ideas, and without it, our supply chain crumbles. Small firms who reach global markets also tend to grow faster and be stronger during tough economic times. However, our research presents some troubling figures, so the next Government will therefore need to keep trade at the top of their agenda.
“Strengthening trade links with major markets like the EU and USA is key to the UK’s future as a global trading force. This would also incentivise small firms to start and continue trading.
“Our election manifesto outlines ways to achieve this, including creating a simple online trade portal that collects all the information small firms need to provide just once – a “once and done” approach. The hefty paperwork and confusing fees associated with international trade are also a concern, and those administrative burdens need to be reduced.
“Investing in training for Border Force staff is a quick way to keep goods moving smoothly across the borders, as will on-the-ground resources to improve customs training.
“There also needs to be plans for a next-generation export development grant or tax relief scheme, taking inspiration from successful international examples, such as the ones used in Australia for decades.
“In the 2026 review of the UK/EU Trade and Cooperation Agreement, the Government should negotiate to remove the need for an intermediary for the EU VAT system. They should also aim for mutual recognition of product standards and professional qualifications in key sectors.
“We were pleased to be invited to work with the Labour Party on an exports taskforce, which will create a better approach to industrial trade and policy, and be published shortly.
“Simplifying international trade for small businesses will allow us to drive significant economic growth and increase resilience. We must not let this opportunity pass us by.”
Leeds companies collaborate on development in Lichfield
Two companies from Leeds are collaborating on the next phase of a speculative development at Fradley Park in Lichfield.
Evans Property Group from Beeston has signed up engineering consultancy JPG Group from Holbeck for the work, to advise on the next phase of the project, where they have secured planning consent for two warehouse units totalling over 280,000 sq ft at the established 300-acre industrial and distribution park.
Fradley Park is one of Evans most longstanding development projects to date with over four million sq ft of commercial space delivered alongside considerable residential conurbations. Its strategic location on the A38, with immediate connectivity to the M40, M42, M1, and M6 has attracted major occupiers including DHL, Screwfix, Tesco, and Yodel.
Having already advised Evans through the planning process, JPG is now providing full civil and structural engineering support alongside GMI Construction to deliver the two units. This includes the diversion of a Severn Trent surface water sewer and the formation of a large flood compensatory storage area to the south of the site as part of the flood risk strategy.
Chris Harding, MD at JPG Group said: “JPG has advised on development plans spanning more than 20 years at Fradley Park and so we are very familiar with the site and its geospatial data. Indeed, we are retained across much of Evans portfolio as a trusted, long term advisory partner.”
“The instruction also supports our growing base in the Midlands where we established a more permanent base at the start of the year. Our central Birmingham office is expanding with a range of instruction across strategic residential, logistics and retail instructions.”
Marc Banks, Director at Evans Property Group said: “This is another major milestone on our ongoing journey at Fradley Park, it demonstrates our commitment and confidence in the site and the marketplace. We are delighted to once again be working closely with JPG as our engineering partner on the project.”
Funding will help business experts support Lincolnshire Action Trust
Lincolnshire Action Trust has been awarded funding and support from a team of business experts to tackle social and environmental challenges to help develop its services for people in contact with the criminal justice system.
The LAT charity supports people involved with the criminal justice system and families with rehabilitation and reintegration services, and has had the impact of its current services and future ambitions recognised as a 2024 Weston Charity Awards winner.
The award gives the charity the chance to invest in its future with strategic planning support from a dedicated team of four business experts, thanks to pro bono charity Pilotlight, and a core grant of £6,500 from the Garfield Weston Foundation.
LAT was chosen from over 180 applicants, all of which are frontline charities delivering youth, welfare, community or environment services in the North of England, the Midlands and Wales.
Alison Goddard, Chief Executive Officer at LAT said: “Lincolnshire Action Trust is delighted to be chosen as a Weston Charity Award winner following a highly competitive process. We look forward to working with Pilotlight over the coming months to embed a cycle of strategic and organisational development to ensure the charity is best placed to maximise our impact.
“Our future ambitions are to continue to expand the depth and reach of interventions that LAT provides to people in contact with the criminal justice system so the funding will be used for this purpose.
“The focus of the expertise provided by the team of business experts will be to support us in developing our organisational and strategic plans which, in turn, will enable us to achieve this ambition.”
Sophia Weston, Deputy Chair of Trustees at Garfield Weston Foundation, said: “In today’s world, the challenges facing communities are more complex than ever. We’re proud to partner with Pilotlight to support the 24 outstanding charities selected, who are finding innovative ways to combat issues ranging from rising inequality to threats to our natural environment.”
CATCH names new Director of Education and Training
CATCH has appointed Paul Robinson to the brand new role of Director of Education and Training.
He will lead a team of tutors and industry professionals focusing on pathway development, partnerships with employers, and ensuring that programmes are aligned with current industry needs. He will also play a crucial role in expanding access to training opportunities, supporting learners from diverse backgrounds, and equipping them with the skills needed to thrive in the workforce.
He said: “I am thrilled to be joining CATCH as the new Director of Education and Training. As the industry continues its journey towards achieving net zero and closing the skills gap, I am honoured to be part of its future and look forward to working within the CATCH team and collaboratively with employers to maximise the positive impact across the sector. It’s an exciting time and CATCH is pivotal in the journey ahead.”
CATCH CEO David Talbot said: “Paul’s expertise and dedication to excellence align perfectly with our mission to train not only new entrants to industry, but also to upskill those that are already making a difference. We are confident that Paul will drive significant growth and success in our skills and apprenticeship programmes.”
Yorkshire SEO firm wins global accolade
Digital growth company The SEO Works, with offices in Leeds and Sheffield, has won the Integrated Search Agency of the Year award at the Global Agency Awards 2024.
CEO Ben Foster said: “Winning Best Global Integrated Search Agency is a fantastic achievement and demonstrates the talent and results-focused culture of our hardworking team. We’re delighted to be able to demonstrate our ability to get results for clients with an integrated search strategy on the global stage.”
The Global Agency Awards celebrate the transformative impact of agencies across the globe, highlighting the strategies and campaigns that organisations use to grow in the digital age. Since its inception in 2020, the awards have celebrated top agencies, from creative and design to marketing and public relations.
The judging panel is composed of marketing experts and industry veterans, this year including representatives from Sainsbury’s, Parkdean Resorts, Dunkin’ Donuts and Manchester Metropolitan University. Judging follows a robust two-step judging process that includes pre-scoring to establish a shortlist and judge voting to determine winners.
The judges said: “The SEO Works illustrates the clear correlation between employee satisfaction and client success. The recent work section stands out … showcasing the agency’s innovative solutions and tangible impact. The narrative, prioritising people and highlighting the brilliant ‘strategy on a page’ inclusion, truly resonates, demonstrating a commitment to holistic success.”
At the same event, The SEO Works won a second award for ‘Best PPC Campaign’. The judges said: “The SEO Works clearly demonstrated the need for this campaign with a well-defined business problem and expertly utilised all available tools to create a tailored strategy. Their approach to reinvest the budget into more profitable areas proved highly effective, as evidenced by the significant results. Additionally, their impressive use of first-party data reduced costs, showcasing their strategic ingenuity”.
Meld Energy gets green light for £250m hydrogen production facility at Saltend
Green hydrogen developer Meld Energy has received approval from the East Riding of Yorkshire Council to construct a £250 million, 100 megawatt green hydrogen production facility at Saltend in Hull.
Meld Energy is now preparing to build the green hydrogen production facility at Saltend Chemicals Park, a move that will create the capacity to meet up to 30% of the park’s existing hydrogen demand. This significant increase in green hydrogen production will lead to a reduction in carbon dioxide emissions by a staggering 125,000 tonnes annually, a substantial step towards a more sustainable future.
Saltend Chemicals Park is a hub for top-tier chemical businesses such as BP Petrochemicals Technology, Vivergo Fuels, Yara, Mitsubishi Chemicals UK, Ineos, and Air Products, as well as the Triton Power station.
Hydrogen can be used as a replacement for natural gas, as a fuel for various modes of transport such as buses, heavy goods vehicles, and cars or as an ingredient for clean hydrogen derived fuels. When burned, it does not produce carbon, which makes it compatible with legislation aimed at addressing climate change. Meld’s green hydrogen will be produced through electrolysis, a process that involves using electricity to split water into hydrogen and oxygen. Hydrogen is crucial for the chemical industry’s transition to net zero, as it offers a viable path to decarbonisation, especially considering the industry’s significant use of gas.
Meld Energy submitted a bid to access funding from round two of the government’s Hydrogen Production Business Model in April of this year. Successful schemes are expected to be announced later this year, with the government aiming to support up to 875 megawatts of hydrogen production in total.
The Humber region is the UK’s industrial centre and the largest industrial emitter of CO2 in the UK – with over 5% of the UK’s overall emissions and 50% more than the next largest region. This makes it an ideal location for hydrogen production. The provision of cleaner fuels is essential to the region’s journey towards decarbonisation and will provide a vital boost to the local economy, securing jobs and encouraging inward investment.
ABP Humber backs Sailor’s Children’s Society charity for 2024
Associated British Ports Humber has chosen Sailor’s Children’s Society charity to support in 2024.
The Sailor’s Children’s Society supports children whose parent/s are mariners, whether it be Royal Navy, Merchant Navy, fishermen, or those making a life from the sea, canal, or inland waterway.
Simon Bird, Regional Director of the Humber ports said: “ABP supports many local charities, and we are always willing to support initiatives which foster meaningful connections and make a positive impact on the community.
“The Sailor’s Children’s Society is a worthwhile cause and does some great and valuable work. Our support will enable it to continue the work it does to ensure that the Sailor’s Children’s Society can have a positive impact on a child in need.”
Natasha Barley, CEO, Sailors’ Children’s Society said: “We are grateful to Humber Associated British Ports for their kind donation and support of Sailors’ Children’s Society. As a charity that supports seafaring families in times of distress working with Humber ABP is a perfect fit. This funding allows us to help merchant navy families who have experienced the unique challenges that a life at sea can present.
“It’s always really appreciated when companies approach the charity to offer us support because they value and see the importance of our work in the sector. We are looking forward to working more closely with ABP to ensure that merchant navy families get the support they need when a crisis happens.
“We will be using the funding provided to ensure that merchant navy families in financial and emotional crisis receive monthly support with food, gas and electric costs as well as school uniforms, winter clothing and funding for extracurricular activities and school trips that they otherwise could not afford.”
The Sailors’ Children’s Society now join Hull and East Riding Children’s University, Armed Forces North East Lincolnshire, ABP Humber Coastal Half Marathon and 10k, Grimsby and Cleethorpes Sea Cadets, and Immingham Museum.
Farmers offered support for domestic food production
A major package of measures to support farmers and grow the UK’s farming and food sector has been announced by the government.
The package will support domestic food production, boost innovation in the sector supporting it to reach its economic potential, and recruit the next generation of farming and food leaders.
This includes a new Blueprint for Growing the UK Fruit and Vegetable Sector, setting out how industry and government can work together to increase domestic production and drive investment into this valuable sector which is worth more than £4 billion to the UK economy.
Environment Secretary Steve Barclay said: ” This announcements will turbocharge the growth of our horticultural sector supporting the building of cutting-edge glasshouses and innovative farming techniques to put British fruit and vegetables on our plates all-year round.`”
The plan involves:
- Ensuring the sector has access to affordable and sustainable energy and water
- Cutting planning red tape to make it easier and quicker to build glasshouses
- New investment to boost innovation in the sector, where Defra will look to double to £80 million the amount of funding given to horticulture businesses when compared to the EU legacy Fruit and Vegetable Aid Scheme.
Don’t be caught out over false claims about business rate appeal deadlines, says VOA
The Valuation Office Agency is warning firms not be caught out by false claims suggesting the deadline for business rate appeals is the end of this month.
A spokesman for the office said: “This is not true. You should be wary of anyone making this claim. Firms are generally able to challenge their property valuation on the 2023 list at any time until March 2026.”
The VOA says firms should be cautious of any agent who:
- tries to pressure them to make a decision or sign a contract
- makes claims about ‘unclaimed credits’ or similar
- says they are acting on behalf of the VOA
- demands large sums of money up front
Yorkshire & Humber manufacturers see boost to growth prospects
Yorkshire & Humber manufacturers are seeing a much stronger picture as they enter the second half of the year with business confidence increasing and the sector forecast to outpace the economy overall in 2024.
The findings come in the Q2 Manufacturing Outlook survey published by Make UK. According to the survey, both output and orders have picked up substantially compared to the first quarter and are set to strengthen in the next three months in line with the national picture.
Yorkshire & Humber in particular is set to benefit from increased production in the construction sector, while the renewables sector which also has a strong presence in the region continues to be strong. This better picture is translating into increased recruitment intentions with job prospects especially strong compared to historical levels.
Business confidence has also risen to equal the highest level recorded since the survey started measuring the indicator in 2014. The only previous occasion it reached the current level was during the immediate post covid rebound.
The survey also asked companies to list their top three priorities for the next Government. More than two thirds of manufacturers (69.1%) said delivering an industrial strategy was the top priority, more than half (54.2%) said strengthening EU/UK relations, while almost half (44%) said reducing the business tax burden. This was followed by investment in national infrastructure (31.5%) and reforming the Apprentice Levy (24.1%).
Make UK is forecasting that manufacturing will grow by 1.2% in 2024 but moderate to 0.8% in 2025. GDP will grow by 0.9% in 2024 and 2% in 2025.
Dawn Huntrod, Region Director for the North at Make UK, said: “After the economic and political shocks of the last few years there is now strong confidence among manufacturers in Yorkshire & Humber. At long last, companies can see concrete signs of growth and a much better economic outlook ahead.
“With prices cooling and potential cuts in interest rates to come, the next Government must capitalise on this scenario by delivering a modern, long term industrial strategy which goes beyond the 2030s and has cross Government support.”
Two further tenants secured for Sheffield Catalyst Business Park
British renewable energy group Octopus Energy and accident repair centre Solus have become the latest inward investors to take space at Mirastar’s flagship development Sheffield Catalyst.
Octopus Energy, which is one of the UK’s largest domestic energy providers, has taken 91,923 sq ft at the five unit scheme, while Solus, an Aviva company, adds to its existing bases in the UK with a new regional facility of 22,448 sq ft at Catalyst. Both leases are on market leading terms.
Both companies join surfaces specialist Cosentino and UK award-winning commercial supplier JLA Group at the development fronting Sheffield Parkway. Cosentino relocated into a 33,608 sq ft unit while JLA Group expanded into 109,166 sq ft on site.
Henry Watson, partner at M1 Agency, said: “These lettings demonstrate where Catalyst sits within the market of Sheffield. From inception we set out to provide a best in class product which suited the needs of occupiers and we have been rewarded for our confidence in the product with market leading transactions across the development.
“The unprecedented growth in demand for last mile solutions shown in the wider South Yorkshire conurbations has been triggered by the rise of the convenience economy driven by mobile technology. Proximity to customers is becoming ever important as goods need to be moved quicker and more often, intensifying the demand for space in last-mile locations such as Catalyst Sheffield.”
Rob Brophy of Mirastar added: “Sheffield Catalyst is an important scheme to deliver much needed new industrial warehouse facilities benefiting from excellent ESG credentials and unrivalled prominence and access via the Sheffield Parkway and the M1 Motorway.
“Catalyst represents a continuation of our clear strategy and vision across our portfolio by developing best in class facilities with market leading ESG credentials.”
Daniel Walker at GV&Co added: “Catalyst, Sheffield Business Park continues to go from strength to strength. This recent letting continues the success on the scheme with another household name and highlights the benefits the development offers to occupiers from both a location perspective and specification of the units.”
1.5 million sq ft industrial & logistics development set for Gascoigne Interchange in Yorkshire
Harworth Group has secured a resolution to grant planning permission from North Yorkshire Council’s Strategic Planning Committee for the development of a major rail-connected industrial and logistics hub at its 185 acre Gascoigne Interchange site in Leeds.
The approved plans will see the development of up to 1.5 million sq ft of industrial and logistics space at Gascoigne Interchange, in line with the Group’s strategy to increase its direct development of industrial and logistics space from its extensive landbank, and has the potential to deliver up to £190 million gross development value (GDV). The proposal is the delivery of seven units, ranging from 57,000 sq ft to 1 million sq ft, all built to Grade A specification, with Harworth expecting to start on site in 2025. The brownfield site is one of Harworth’s next-generation of development sites and is situated in Selby, to the east of Leeds and adjacent to Sherburn Industrial Estate. It is one of the most strategically located, rail-connected sites in the region, enabling future occupiers to utilise the existing main line rail connection from the site for a wide variety of uses, including low carbon freight movement. The site, which is accessed via Junction 42 of the A1(M), has an extensive collection of rail sidings on either side of Network Rail’s Leeds to Hull main line route, with current operational connections into the northern and southern plots on the site. The rail access to the north of the site offers scope to create a dedicated railhead serving the buildings on site, with the ability to handle containers, bulk commodities or next-generation express freight services, and puts most of the UK within three hours of the site. The plots to the south of the site benefit from 1,200 metres of frontage onto the main line with connections at either end capable of accommodating a major intermodal terminal for on-site and off-site customers. Lynda Shillaw, Chief Executive, Harworth Group, said: “Our development at Gascoigne Interchange is another example of Harworth’s unique ability to identify, acquire and transform brownfield sites to generate value, create jobs and increase investment in the region. “This development complements Harworth’s extensive pipeline of industrial and logistics sites and we continue to see high demand for high-specification strategically-connected Grade A industrial space.”