High-tech Lincolnshire agricultural initiatives win financial backing from Government

Stuart Pearcey
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High-tech Lincolnshire agricultural initiatives win financial backing from Government

Two high-tech agricultural businesses in Lincolnshire have been offered funding from a national £7.5 million pot to support innovation and growth.

An automated blueberry harvesting project led by Eyre Trailers in Coningsby, in partnership with the University of Lincoln, and a daffodil harvesting scheme at C Wright and Son in Gedney have each been offered around £300,000 as a share of £1.84m awarded to 12 projects across the east of England. The money has come from the new Launchpads programme managed by Innovate UK which offers small and medium enterprises (SMEs) grants from £25,000 to £300,000 for R&D and innovation projects that focus on agrifood. The Eastern England Launchpad is being supported by the Greater Lincolnshire Local Enterprise Partnership, the Cambridgeshire and Peterborough Combined Authority and Norfolk and Suffolk County Councils. Ten other successful projects across the area include novel biological defences against aphids, enhancing the fibre content of food and drink products, enhancements in crop breeding, and creating new types of plant-based food packaging. The objective of the Eyre Trailers automated blueberry harvesting project, which stands to secure £299,693, is to develop and demonstrate a fully automatic machine for harvesting blueberries, one of the UK’s most important soft fruit crops. The proposed machine will be fully automatic and will feature new berry removal and bush gripper systems. It will be designed to remove berries from the bush by the use of innovative shaking systems and should be available for widescale deployment by UK growers next year. Blueberries are now the second largest soft fruit sold in the UK, with the industry  expanding to meet demand, but still only has a 7% share of the market. “We’re very privileged to have been offered the grant and to be working with the University of Lincoln, and we’re looking forward to bringing the project to fruition,” said Bob Eyre from Eyre Trailers. “Without this grant it would be difficult to bring this product to market, so we’re really grateful. “Blueberry harvesting is very labour-intensive as growers are completely reliant on hand-picking. Finding the workers to do it is difficult and expensive, so everybody is looking to reduce the labour costs and make the job more viable. Currently lots of fruit is left unpicked because the growers can’t find the labour for the harvest. “By the end of the project we aim to be manufacturing a machine that’s fit for purpose and that satisfies the blueberry growers. It will be quite a big growth area for us and it could really rejuvenate our business.” The daffodil harvesting project, which has been offered £299,985, is being led by Autopickr in Cambridge with Lincolnshire grower C Wright & Son as a partner. Horticulture has traditionally offered growers high incomes from small areas of land, but the total land area used for horticulture has declined by 15% since 2020. To combat shortages of labour and high labour costs the project will develop a multi-functional robotic platform capable of horticultural tasks that cannot be automated using simple machines like tractors or harvesters. An asparagus harvester has already been developed and will launch in the next three years, and growers have highlighted the fact that flower production, specifically daffodils, is another promising area in which to develop robotic capabilities. The daffodil picker will feature a sophisticated robotic arm, a platform weighing less than 45kg, and an artificial vision system to recognise picked flowers for the arm to collect and transport. Success in this project will lower labour costs for English growers and reduce barriers to the growth of daffodil production, which is a lucrative export market for growers. “We are very pleased to have received funding for this project,” said Adam Cunnington from C Wright & Son. “Labour is getting hard to come by and any method of automating our harvest has to be the way forward. We have every faith in the project delivering automation to a much needed harvest operation.”

Suicide prevention charity launches The Workplace Pledge to save lives

Stuart Pearcey
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Suicide prevention charity launches The Workplace Pledge to save lives

National suicide prevention charity The Baton of Hope will launch The Workplace Pledge at its first national conference later this month, aiming to mobilise businesses, organisations and individuals across the UK to take action.

The organisation, whose aim is to facilitate a zero-suicide society, says The Workplace Pledge is a comprehensive and practical guide for leaders and HR professionals about what organisations can and should be doing to help prevent death by suicide.

Each year more than 6,000 people across the UK take their own lives – one person every 90 minutes.  It is the biggest killer of men under 50 in the UK. The World Health Organisation estimates that 135 people are affected by each death. That means more than 800,000 people every year in the UK are affected by suicide.

The Baton of Hope founder Mike McCarthy, who tragically lost his son Ross to suicide in 2021 said: “We cannot turn a blind eye to the national catastrophe of suicide any longer.  If a similar death toll were caused by any other physical illness, it would rightly trigger a national outcry.

“Unlike the openness surrounding conditions such as cancer or heart disease, ‘admitting’ to thoughts of suicide is often met with shame and stigma.  While physical ailments are accepted without question as valid reasons for time off work, mental health struggles are still concealed behind fabricated stories.

“While organisations and individuals are overwhelmingly keen to help address this complicated issue, they are often hesitant to act for fear of making things worse.  The Workplace Pledge gives organisations a toolkit to enable them to take action.

“Suicide IS preventable and every one of us is capable of generating hope.”

The Workplace Pledge offers a framework to guide organisations toward comprehensive suicide prevention. This involves raising awareness, providing support resources, and prioritising mental wellbeing within the workplace.

It’s six key principles are:

  1. Prioritise suicide awareness, prevention, and support in the workplace.
  2. Provide clear messaging on suicide in communications and training.
  3. Offer suicide prevention resources and early intervention support.
  4. Champion those with lived experience of mental health challenges.
  5. Promote crisis services and support resources.
  6. Actively spread the message of the pledge to amplify its impact.

Leeds-based recruiter secures £45m invoice facility with Metro Bank

Stuart Pearcey
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Leeds-based recruiter secures £45m invoice facility with Metro Bank

Leeds-based specialist recruitment business Mach Recruitment has agreed a £45m invoice finance facility with Metro Bank.

As a specialist recruitment business working in the ecommerce and food sectors, Mach Recruitment will use the financing to support its acquisition ambitions and continued desire to grow and diversify. The invoice finance package from Metro Bank will provide the additional funding it needs to meet the long-term needs of this entrepreneurial and market-leading business.

Mach Recruitment was advised by Mazars Debt Advisory. Metro Bank was advised by European Valuation and Shoosmiths.

Tom Zyzak, Chief Executive Officer at Mach Recruitment, said: “These are exciting times for the business and we greatly appreciate the professionalism and approach of the Metro Bank team to meet our requirements and put the facility in place. We believe we have found the right financiers and partners to help Mach drive our already successful business further forward and allow us to be more dynamic and opportunistic in our marketplace.”

Alan Austin, Head of Asset Based Lending at Metro Bank added: “We were delighted to work with the team at Mach and provide them with a bespoke and tailored facility to meet their specific needs, both now and in the future. We look forward to a long and successful partnership, and Mach can rest assured knowing they have a committed and supportive partner to match their aspirations.”

High street records fifth month of negative in-store sales

Tess Egginton
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High street records fifth month of negative in-store sales
In-store sales fell by -1.7% in April, which is the fifth consecutive month of negative results, according to new data from BDO’s High Street Sales Tracker. BDO’s data, which records sales across discretionary spend categories, highlighted that while overall sales, combining both online and in-store, remained flat at +0.4% in April, it was the performance of high street stores which brought the overall figure down. This drop is primarily due to a significant fall in sales in the fashion sector, with in-stores sales down -8.3% compared to April 2023. The fashion sector’s poor performance means that it has now recorded eight consecutive months of negative in-store sales. The homewares sector also saw a negative in-store result, with sales down -1.5%. However, online sales provided a small boost, increasing +8.2% in April, bringing the homewares overall total to +1.8% year on year. The lifestyle sector was the only category to record positive in-store and non-store sales figures last month, also recording +1.8% increase compared to 2023. In-store sales grew by +3.4% whilst non-store increased by +5.8%. Sophie Michael, head of Retail and Wholesale at BDO, said: “This is yet another disappointing set of results for the retail sector. While an increase in online sales may offer a glimmer of hope, it’s clear that consumers are simply not spending their spare cash on the high street. “The fashion sector will be particularly concerned by such a poor sales performance in the run up to summer. Unpredictable and unseasonably cold weather may have dampened the mood of shoppers who would usually be investing in their spring and summer wardrobe.” Sophie continued: “The competition for the consumer purse has never been fiercer. With us recording a seventh consecutive month of negative or <1% growth for discretionary spend categories, retailers should be realistic in thinking this may not be a temporary trend. “Those who want to succeed must acknowledge that the competition is not just with other retailers but with the hospitality, leisure and travel sectors, with many choosing ‘experiences’ over products. If sales continue to fall, it may mean we see more consolidation in the sector, more empty stores, and a real risk to a crucial part of the UK economy.”

HSE decision to end farm safety inspections branded as ‘deeply troubling’

Stuart Pearcey
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HSE decision to end farm safety inspections branded as ‘deeply troubling’
Serious concerns are being raised over the recent decision by the HSE  to halt farm safety inspections, fearing it will pose significant risks to the health and safety of agricultural workers in the farming sector.
Speaking for the first time as chair of the Farm Safety Partnership, NFU Deputy President David Exwood warned that it was wrong to compromise on the safety of our farmers, farm workers, or those living on or visiting farms. He said: “The decision to halt inspections is deeply troubling and we urge the government and HSE to reconsider and continue to work collaboratively with farmers to help ensure they are compliant. We simply must prioritise the wellbeing of the nation’s farmers and growers.” The HSE is switching to a focus on occupational health issues rather than preventative general health and safety inspections. It will continue to provide investigative inspections in response to serious incidents such as on-farm accidents or deaths. The HSE advised that despite efforts over several decades, there has not been a significant reduction in the fatality rate for agriculture. HSE advised the reduction in actual numbers of fatal injuries have been attributed to a reduction in the numbers working in the industry since the 1980s. Mr Exwood said the lack of public awareness surrounding this decision raised serious questions about HSE’s prioritisation of safety within the farming sector. “While the HSE assures us that investigative inspections will continue in response to serious incidents, the lack of all regular inspections, training and events leaves a notable gap in proactive and preventative safety measures that could prevent accidents and save lives,” he said. “Agriculture has one of the highest rates of fatalities and serious injuries in any workplace and to help bring this number down, as a sector we need to work on changing the culture of farm safety. This decision by HSE completely goes against that goal. “We are calling on Defra and the Department for Work and Pensions to recognise the critical safety implications of this decision, urgently review the potential impacts and establish a clear plan to prioritise the safety of those in the sector. “The FSP is committed to help ensure the safety and wellbeing of agricultural workers. We will be engaging in conversations with the government and the wider industry to support the development and implementation of policies and practices that safeguard the livelihoods of those working in agriculture.”

Siemens completes University of York solar farm

Stuart Pearcey
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Siemens completes University of York solar farm
Siemens has completed work on a 200kWp solar farm at the University of York’s new Institute for Safe Autonomy, as part of £1.5 million research project. Funded through the UK Research Partnership Investment Fund, the project will enhance the Institute’s research capabilities to develop and test robots and other autonomous systems for the inspection and maintenance of solar arrays. The solar farm will create a ‘living lab’ for the Institute to give insight to landowners and operators of solar farms on how best to integrate robotic technology in the field. It will also enable the Institute to become net zero for energy by 2025, generating power for more than 80 per cent of the building’s 600kWh expected daily use. Siemens’ team supported through consultancy services helping to design, commission and optimise the solar arrays for the robotic technology being used as part of the institute’s research in addition to setting up a data collection system for the panels which will underpin research projects at the Institute. The farm, which spans more than 1400 square metres, consists of a range of different panel configurations including static ground installations and a sun-tracking array. Some solar panels are also mounted onto the side of the Institute’s building and its rooftop as building-integrated photovoltaics (BIPV) to achieve wide range of installation positions. It is one of nine projects that are set to improve environmental sustainability, thanks to almost £19 million of funding from UKRPIF. Andrew Smyth, Head of Energy Performance Services at Siemens, said: “Through the solar farm the University will gain valuable insights to enhance the use of robotic technology, as we continue to look to integrate it into our everyday lives. “We are seeing this technology deliver meaningful change across a range of industries and it will form a key pillar of our Transform 2024 conference as we bring together industry leaders to debate these key issues.” Professor Miles Elsden, Director of the Institute for Safe Autonomy, added: “Robotics, autonomous systems and AI have the potential to transform the way we live, travel and work in the future. Integrating them with the production of renewable energy will ultimately play a key role in the journey towards net zero. “This innovative research project marks an important milestone for the Institute since we opened earlier this year and reaffirms our commitment as a university to sourcing sustainable energy.” The solar arrays were installed by LYNX Sustainable Solutions Ltd. The Institute for Safe Autonomy is a new initiative at the University of York which takes a safety critical approach to the design, development and testing of robotics and connected autonomous systems. The purpose-built facility was completed in summer 2022 and provides collaborative work and test spaces for more than 100 researchers across a variety of disciplines.

Council successful in purchase of former B&M site as part of major transformation plans

Tess Egginton
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Council successful in purchase of former B&M site as part of major transformation plans
Boston Borough Council have been successful in purchasing the former B&M site at the heart of the proposed Rosegarth Square development. This strategic move empowers the Council to move forward with development proposals and bring forward the vision for the area utilising £14.8 million of Levelling Up funding. The B&M store ceased operating a number of years ago and since then, the site has been earmarked for redevelopment. The area is an important part of the Council’s overall aspirations for the town centre regeneration. Leader of Boston Borough Council, Cllr Anne Dorrian, said: “Improving the town centre is one of our top priorities and we are determined to push ahead to ensure our vision becomes a reality. “Developing this large, derelict building is yet another piece in that transformation jigsaw. I am really pleased that we have been able to utilise government grant funding to purchase the former B&M site, and we have exciting ideas to ensure that the site makes a positive contribution to our town.”

Work begins on redevelopment of arts centre in Bradford

Tess Egginton
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Work begins on redevelopment of arts centre in Bradford
Work has started on the redevelopment of Kala Sangam’s Grade II Listed arts centre, with Simpson having been appointed as main contractor. The project will see the creation of a new theatre, five new dance studios, a new central staircase and a permanent home for volunteer-led community radio station Bradford Community Broadcasting (BCB). The introduction of a new entrance, two new lifts and a dedicated Changing Places facility will ensure the building is fully accessible for the first time in its 140-year history. The building is scheduled to reopen as Bradford Arts Centre in Summer 2025, as a landmark moment in Bradford’s year as UK City of Culture. York-based Simpson has extensive experience working on the redevelopment of heritage buildings and arts venues, with recent projects including York Art Gallery, Hull Maritime Museum and Salford Cathedral. Professional services company Turner & Townsend has also been appointed to the project as Capital Project Manager. Specialising in major programmes and programme management, Turner & Townsend has significant experience supporting the successful delivery of cultural and heritage capital projects around the world, with examples in the UK including the redevelopments of York Guildhall and Battersea Power Station. Turner & Townsend join a Capital Design Team led by Principal Architects and Contract Administrators Halliday Clark Architects, who has been developing the project with Kala Sangam since its inception in 2018. Also staying with the project are Quantity Surveyors DKP Consulting, Mechanical and Electrical specialists BWB Consulting, and Structural Engineers SGM Structural Design Ltd. Jas Athwal DL, Chair of Kala Sangam, said: “After many years of planning, we are delighted that work has finally started to transform our home at St Peter’s House into a fully accessible space, ready to welcome artists, audiences, our local communities and businesses in 2025 as Bradford Arts Centre. “I would like to thank our funders – the Department of Culture Media and Sport and Arts Council England, The National Lottery Heritage Fund, The Garfield Weston Foundation and Bradford Metropolitan District Council – for supporting the redevelopment. “Bradford is desperately in need of more space to create and enjoy arts and culture, and this redevelopment will ensure our building is a more open, welcoming and inclusive venue that the whole district can enjoy.” Alex Croft, Creative Director of Kala Sangam, said: “I’m delighted that we have appointed Simpson Limited as Main Contractors for the redevelopment. Right from our first meeting, we’ve seen the passion, dedication and professionalism that they bring to their projects – it feels like we couldn’t have placed this critical project in safer hands. “It has also been brilliant to welcome Turner & Townsend onto the team. Their support and hard work have been critical in getting the project to this exciting stage and we’re all looking forward to working with them, and drawing on their extensive experience, throughout the build.” Andy Gatenby from Simpson said: “Simpson are excited and honoured to be working with the client Kala Sangam on the redevelopment of their cultural hub into the newly named Bradford Arts Centre. “The project which aims to extensively reconfigure and upgrade the existing buildings facilities, will continue to be a great asset to the community. This is an exciting time for the city ahead of Bradford being the City of Culture for 2025 and one that Simpson are proud to be a part of.” During the redevelopment, Kala Sangam will be based at Bank House in central Bradford. This temporary home houses two studio spaces – allowing the company to continue its critical support for artists in the run up to Bradford’s year as UK City of Culture – and a range of spaces available to hire for meetings, events and conferences. Whilst Kala Sangam’s theatre space is closed, the company is taking its performances on tour, with events at venues and non-traditional spaces across the district.

Grant to help create Hull city centre office space

Tess Egginton
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Grant to help create Hull city centre office space
Hull’s Gosschalks’ building will undergo significant refurbishment to create city centre office space and employment opportunities thanks to support from Levelling Up Funding (LUF). Sixtyone QG Limited has been awarded £381,807 as part of its large-scale project in the city centre at 61 Dock Street. The grant award has come from Hull City Council’s government LUF and is to support the refurbishment of the building to upgrade, repair and refurbish offices, whilst also releasing surplus space for third party use. Works also include improving the building’s energy efficiency by replacing gas heating systems with electric. This grant award will help to bring back into use 355 sq m of vacant floor space, whilst it is also expected to create 34 jobs through existing and incoming tenants. The total cost of the project is estimate at £1,909,039, meaning over £1.5m of private capital will be invested in Hull city centre. Garry Taylor, assistant director for major projects, culture and place at the council, said: “City centre office space is much sought after in Hull and this project will help to provide extra provision. “I am delighted that the council has been able to support the applicant to make this a possibility through LUF.”

University of Lincoln graduate lands job supporting farmers

Stuart Pearcey
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University of Lincoln graduate lands job supporting farmers
Agrovista has appointed Leah Williamson as rural consultant and agronomist within its northern regional team to help farmers make the most of new income opportunities as England’s agricultural policy transition gathers pace. Leah currently offers guidance on the Sustainable Farming Incentive and nutrient management planning, and will also provide advice on Countryside Stewardship and capital grant work as demand builds. After growing up on the family arable farm near Lincoln, where she helped out and developed a sound grounding in her practical farming skills, Leah obtained an HND at Bishop Burton College followed by a foundation degree in agriculture at the University of Lincoln. Leah, who is BASIS and FACTS qualified, said: “Most of my work is supporting agronomists and their farmer customers to get the best from these schemes,” says Leah, who now lives on her partner’s dairy farm in Cumbria. “Working closely with the agronomy team makes sense, as they are already an integral part of a farming business and know what is likely to work best for their customers. “SFI in particular can fit very well with practical farming if it is implemented correctly; Agrovista’s aim is to keep as much land as possible in production while enabling farmers to make best use of SFI options. “That has to be the right approach, and I’m really looking forward to helping farmers make use of what’s on offer and to help them to farm as efficiently as possible to help offset the loss of BPS payments.”

Sheffield United Women unite with Autoglass to give women a stronger voice in male-dominated industries

Stuart Pearcey
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Sheffield United Women unite with Autoglass to give women a stronger voice in male-dominated industries
Autoglass and Sheffield United Women have joined forces at a joint Partnership Day to promote and support women in male-dominated industries. The Partnership Day saw technicians at Autoglass and Sheffield United Women’s team players meet and share experiences at the Autoglass HQ in Bedford. The Sheffield United players got a tutorial in windscreen repair and replacement from technicians at Autoglass, followed by a series of football games led by the Sheffield United players. Autoglass staff also got involved in a series of competitions and games held throughout the day. Ian Rowlands, Commercial Director at Autoglass, said: “Our partnership with the Sheffield United Women’s team builds off our ambition to create a more diverse and equitable business. Gender diversity has been a priority for us not only because it’s the right thing to do, but it also makes business sense – it ensures we are reflective of our customer base and provides us with a balanced approach to business decisions. “We draw parallels with the Sheffield United Women’s team as we look to create more gender balance and shift mindsets within our industries. The partnership gives us a fantastic opportunity to share and learn from each other as we continue working hard towards more inclusive workplaces.” Paul Reeves, Head of Commercial at Sheffield Utd FC, said: “It was a fantastic partnership event to highlight the synergy between the football club and Autoglass. Our shared commitment of championing equality in male-dominated industries was highlighted throughout a truly inspiring day, packed with lots of fun and engaging activities. We look forward to many more opportunities to further foster our mutual ambition and growth between our two organisations.”

Sheffield’s West Bar reaches topping out stage

Stuart Pearcey
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Sheffield’s West Bar reaches topping out stage
The first phase 100,000 sq ft Grade A office building and two residential towers with almost 370 build-to-rent apartments have reached the topping out stage at Sheffield’s West Bar project. West Bar Square in the heart of the commercial area and Soho Yard serving the residential BTR apartments, are also due to complete soon. Senior officials from Sheffield City Council, Urbo (West Bar) Ltd, and Legal and General, which are all stakeholders in the significant regeneration project, attended the ceremony to celebrate the occasion. Peter Swallow, Managing Director at Urbo, said: “We are delighted to reach this significant milestone at West Bar Sheffield which is a strategically important regeneration project for the city.  Indeed, it is integral to the transformational plan for Sheffield city centre, extending its prime core, and bringing forward much need new space for commercial and residential accommodation.” Ben Rodgers, Head of Regeneration, LGIM Real Assets added: “We’re thrilled to reach this project milestone as we get closer to realising the vision for West Bar. This mixed-use scheme will create a vibrant new quarter that re-connects with the city centre, delivering much needed office accommodation, housing, and green landscaped public spaces.  This further helps demonstrate the power of responsibly investing pension savings in urban regeneration, transforming and reshaping cities, creating productive, sustainable assets for future generations.” Kate Josephs, Chief Executive at Sheffield City Council, said: “Sheffield needs high quality, energy efficient office and commercial space so it’s great to see this development close to completion. West Bar is a prime example of what can be achieved through strong partnership between the public and private sector.” Bowmer + Kirkland, principal contractor for the scheme, showcased progress on site from the top of the office building, No.1 West Bar Square, which acts as an impressive gateway for the site.  It also presented the significant social, local, and economic impact achieved to date.  This represents £14.9 million of value to the local economy with 57% of jobs created locally within a 30-mile radius, 288 apprentice weeks and the overall sustainability of construction demonstrated with 99.5% of waste diverted from landfill. West Bar represents the long-awaited redevelopment of a prominent seven-acre brownfield site on the Inner Ring Road between Sheffield’s Kelham Island, Cathedral and Castlegate Quarters.  It is to comprise one million sq ft of mixed-use space including over 500,000 sq ft of office accommodation with amenities, public realm and hundreds of apartments and the project expects to create up to 8,000 new jobs when completed. After many years in planning, the first phase was able to commence following a ground-breaking deal to secure £150 million funding from Legal & General.  This agreement represents the largest single city centre investment deal that Sheffield has ever seen. As part of the agreed deal between Legal & General and Urbo, a second 100,000 sq ft office building will be delivered to follow No.1 West Bar Square.  A new 450 space multi-storey car park is also part of the first phase which offers around 300 cycle storage spaces and electric car charging points.  Connectivity into the surrounding walking and cycling routes is incorporated to encourage more sustainable travel.  

Firms invited to share in Government’s £1.8m freight decarbonisation fund

Stuart Pearcey
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Firms invited to share in Government’s £1.8m freight decarbonisation fund
Businesses across the UK are being urged to apply for a share in £1.8 million of government funding boost to develop ways to  deliver innovative tech that will decarbonise freight. SMEs can get their share by deploying cutting-edge AI technology and automation to improve the way trains, lorries, vans, and ships carry parcels and goods. Examples of the developments made possible through earlier grants include Royal Mail working with Skyports to deliver mail by drones across Orkney. This is the first time ever mail is being delivered by drones in the UK, allowing Royal Mail to deliver 24 hours faster than using vans or ferries. The Freight Innovation Fund has also supported FedEx in trialling new eCargo bikes to deliver parcels quickly in traffic-heavy city centres, helping decarbonise deliveries. Roads Minister Guy Opperman said: “The freight and logistics sectors are part of our economy’s backbone, ensuring supermarket shelves are stocked, hospitals receive crucial medical supplies and important deliveries are made.

“That’s why, as part of the government’s plan to grow the economy, the Freight Innovation Fund is supporting businesses to innovate and back skilled UK jobs.”

Mansfield Pollard CEO wins national recognition

Stuart Pearcey
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Mansfield Pollard CEO wins national recognition
The CEO of Bradford-based Mansfield Pollard has been included in the 2024 E2E Female 100 Track in association with The Independent. She’s Louise Frankland, who said: “Being recognised on the E2E Female 100 Track is not just a personal accolade; it’s a testament to the extraordinary capabilities and dedication of our entire team at Mansfield Pollard. “This recognition shines a spotlight on the UK’s manufacturing industry, underscoring its significance on a national scale. Together, we’ve fostered a winning culture that drives innovation and excellence, propelling us forward in these challenging times. It’s an honour to be listed among such remarkable enterprises, and this achievement highlights the relentless spirit and hard work of every member of our team. Shalini Khemka, founder of E2E said: “The E2E Female 100 has allowed us to highlight the amazing companies throughout the UK with a turnover in excess of £25million. These are companies that despite a challenging economy and in fact a challenging few years, have generated exceptional turnover results and are continuing to grow at a rapid rate.”

APSS sponsors prestigious county swimming championship

Tess Egginton
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APSS sponsors prestigious county swimming championship
The annual Lincolnshire Open Water County Championship returns for a 3rd year, sponsored by Lincoln-based commercial interior design and fit out business APSS Group. The event on 16th June at Activities Away, South Hykeham, organised by the Lincolnshire Amateur Swimming Association (ASA) and Swim England, is seen as a springboard for swimmers who want to compete at a regional and national level. APSS Group’s Commercial Manager Sean Cuffley will be one of the estimated 100 swimmers of all ages and abilities taking part. Managing Director Laurence Barrass said: “APSS Group is committed to giving back to the local community and contributing to the growth of the sport within the county. “We’re pleased to be sponsoring the championship for the second year in a row. Last year was a huge success with competitors and spectators from across the county coming together on the day. “We’re looking forward to seeing everyone take part, including Sean. In 2023 he came fourth overall and was county champion in the 35 to 44 age group. We’re very proud of his achievements.” The annual Lincolnshire Open Water County Championship attracts some of the top swimmers in the region and is open to age groups 11 to 17 years and 18 plus. Suzy Hegg, Lincolnshire County Swimming’s Open Water Officer, said: “Open water swimming is one of the fastest growing sports in the UK, and Lincolnshire is committed to developing swimmers to compete in and out of the pool. “We have added a new para-swimming category this year as we want this event to be as inclusive as possible. “Last year’s event was a record year for the championships. We had 79 competitors (46 Age Group and 33 Masters). The competitors came from nine separate clubs around the county. The youngest was 11 and the oldest 71. “The county championship’s aim is to provide a springboard to other competitions, and we achieved that goal. Following the event 14 went on to regional championships and five qualified for English National Open Water Championships. “The 2024 Lincolnshire open water competition is a week before the regionals, so this provides the perfect platform and vital practice ahead of this event. “We are hopeful for an even bigger event this year and we are targeting 100 of the best swimmers from the county. “With the help of our sponsor APSS, we have significantly raised the profile of open water swimming in Lincolnshire.”

Appointments and promotions made at Aon’s Leeds office

Tess Egginton
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Appointments and promotions made at Aon’s Leeds office

Aon plc, a professional services firm, has made four appointments and two promotions in its Leeds advisory commercial risk team following a period of growth.

Aon has appointed Jessica Kelly and Lee Maddison to client director. Jessica and Lee, who have 25 years and 10 years’ experience respectively, will be responsible for managing existing client relationships and business development.

In addition, Emily Gray and Lucy Joyce join as client service advisers. With 20 and 13 years’ experience respectively, they will be responsible for broking and placement of new business, renewals and mid-term adjustments for commercial risk clients.

Leading the promotions is Cheryl Archibald, who has been promoted to client service manager. In the five years since joining Aon, Cheryl has held the role of senior broker and successfully completed her Chartered Insurance Institute Diploma.

In her new role, Cheryl will oversee a team of client service advisers, manage a book of clients and advise them on all aspects of commercial risk insurance. In addition, William Mason has been promoted to client service adviser after relocating from Peterborough to Leeds.

James Fell, head of office, Aon Leeds, said: “Congratulations to everyone on their well-deserved promotions and welcome to our new colleagues, who, with their wealth of experience, local market knowledge and expertise, have further strengthened the advisory team.

“By acquiring and nurturing highly skilled talent and creating a supportive culture that places colleagues at the heart of the business, we continue to invest in our capabilities and ensure that our clients receive a top class service.”

Cheryl Archibald, client service manager in Aon advisory, said: “I love working at Aon. Being a part of a supportive culture that fosters talent by providing a clear development plan has resulted in my promotion.

“Aon is an excellent employer and I am grateful and pleased that they have recognised my hard work and promoted me to client service manager.”

More than £6m AI upskilling fund launched to help SMEs

Tess Egginton
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More than £6m AI upskilling fund launched to help SMEs
From today (1 May) small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) can bid for a share of £6.4 million to help train their workforce to use artificial intelligence and in turn boost productivity and efficiency. Sectors set to benefit include law, accountancy, scientific research and human resources, with the UK Government making up to £10,000 available for each business so they can embrace cutting edge and efficiency boosting new technology. SMEs in these areas will be able to tap into the power of AI to streamline tasks, boost productivity, and drive growth. This could include accountants using generative AI tools such as ChatGPT to draft documents, develop new software which could help to tackle fraud, and legal professionals harnessing the power of AI to analyse lengthy documents such as contracts to provide concise summaries, freeing up time to focus on other critical areas. By adopting the enormous potential of AI technologies, SMEs across the country will be able to not only improve productivity and drive down costs, but to devote more time to identifying new areas of growth which will deliver new and improved services for consumers. Expected to support around 2,000 SMEs across the country, businesses employing under 250 staff can now apply for the support, which will see successful applicants reimbursed for up to 50% of the cost of investment in AI skills training. The move is to future-proof these businesses and incentivise investment in AI skills to ensure they retain a competitive edge through increased productivity and reduced costs, as they begin to integrate AI into their operations – building a pool of technological talent alongside supporting employee growth and development. Whilst human supervision, judgement, creativity and empathy remain vital requirements in the workplace, augmenting AI into monotonous tasks like inputting data and filling out paperwork can increase speed and efficiency and play a major part in increasing business productivity. Delivered through the UK Government’s Flexible AI Upskilling Fund, the pilot launched today will support SMEs in the Professional and Business Services (PBS) sector, with SMEs encouraged to apply between now and 31 May for grant funding to deliver training before March 2025. Businesses specialising in professional services such as law, accounting and market research, alongside those providing business services such as HR, administration and leasing consumer goods are already seeing some of the benefits AI can bring to their day-to-day operations. This includes analysing large volumes of text, answering customer service queries and generating images and text for a variety of applications, including advertising campaigns, contracts and blog posts. AI is also having a huge impact in specialised areas like drafting legal documents for law firms and creating virtual renderings for architects. While smaller enterprises often acknowledge the benefits AI can bring to business operations, many require support when it comes to identifying the training employees should undertake to suit business needs. The AI Skills for Business Framework, also launching today, will help businesses to grip the huge opportunities AI has to offer, driving innovation and future-proofing their workforce. With the support of the Department for Science, Innovation and Technology, Innovate UK and The Alan Turing Institute have developed this new framework for businesses, to identify the skills and knowledge their employees might need to use AI in the workplace and make the most of emerging technologies. Technology Secretary Michelle Donelan said: “Businesses of all sizes and across all sectors, from architecture to law and HR to advertising, are identifying the huge benefits that AI can bring in helping staff boost their productivity while cutting business costs. “I have launched this new pilot to help SMEs interested in AI adoption make it a reality by contributing towards the cost of upskilling their employees – ultimately increasing efficiency so companies can retain a competitive edge in an increasingly digital world.”

Vinyl record manufacturing start-up takes on new premises in York

Tess Egginton
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Vinyl record manufacturing start-up takes on new premises in York
Start-up business Vinyl Press UK Ltd has leased 2,500 sq ft premises at Monks Cross – the first pressing plant of its kind in the city of York. Vinyl Press was established by musical entrepreneurs Lucy Johnson (managing director), Neville Proctor (financial director), and Susie Proctor (director), who realised an opportunity to offer smaller to mid-sized labels with much needed vinyl record manufacturing facilities in the north of England. The opening of the facility coincides with demand for vinyl records having increased for the 16th year in a row last year, with 6.5 million sold, taking overall sales above £170m. Taylor Swift’s 1989 (Taylor’s Version) was the best-selling LP, followed by the Rolling Stones’ Hackney Diamonds. Vinyl Press has launched the business with a small team but expects to recruit several more members of staff within the next 12 months as the company’s order book and client roster grows. The client list already extends into Europe, and they have quickly become part of a global network of manufacturers and industry experts. Lucy Johnson said: “I have been involved in the music industry for over two decades, so we’re absolutely delighted to see vinyl records enjoying a renaissance in the mainstream and among the younger generations across the UK. “Since opening the doors to our new pressing facility, we have produced several records of different sizes and colours for a wide range of genres, from drum and bass and jazz, to punk and folk. “As well as working with established record labels, we’re keen to develop relationships with smaller independent record labels to find ways to make vinyl production more accessible again on a grass roots level.” Neville Proctor said: “It’s an exciting time to start manufacturing in the music industry. Our goal is to establish relationships with our customers and consistently produce high quality records whilst also innovating and exploring the creative possibilities so integral to physical music releases.” Chris Waterhouse, real estate and property partner at Andrew Jackson Solicitors, said: “Having acted for the Proctor family for over 20 years, it has been particularly pleasing to assist Neville, Lucy and Susie with Vinyl Press and to ensure that their best interests are protected as tenants. I wish them the very best for their new venture.”

Free business briefings bid to boost region’s digital economy

Stuart Pearcey
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Free business briefings bid to boost region’s digital economy
A series of free business briefings set up to drive the development of the region’s digital economy is expecting another full house next week for its milestone tenth event. Organisers of Hull’s Power Hour have again assembled a trio of digital marketing experts from top Yorkshire agencies who will present to the audience at Social in Hull on “Why Creative Matters”. Will Slater, Creative Content Specialist at host agency 43 Clicks North, will offer “Ten tips to improve your copy prised from the terrible claws of the Gruffalo”. Josh Hedges, Founder and Director or another Hull-based agency beHuman, will speak to the theme of “Connecting the dots: How to maximise revenue, minimise ad costs and build brand equity with creative strategy.” Samm King, Paid Social Analyst at Leeds-based agency Journey Further, is expected to explore some quirky content ideas with “Storyselling to Storytelling: Centring the User in Social Creative”. Power Hour was launched by 43 Clicks North as a post-pandemic quarterly event to present top tech talent from East Yorkshire alongside some of the key players from bigger cities. All eight sessions have taken place at Social in Humber Street, Hull, and have attracted audiences of around 100 people from digital agencies and their clients across a range of business sectors. Mike Ellis, MD of 43 Clicks North, said the event is doubly significant as the tenth Power Hour and as the latest to attract sponsorship, with Lexus Hull have agreed a partnership for the rest of 2024. Mike said: “We’ve been building audiences ever since our first event and more recently we’ve been generating stronger interest from other business sectors. That’s really encouraging because it shows people outside our industry are increasingly aware of how we can help them, and that will help us drive the development of digital skills.” Power Hour will take place at Social, Humber Street, Hull, at midday on Friday this week.

York firms support care leavers into employment

Stuart Pearcey
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York firms support care leavers into employment

Young care leavers in York have been able to learn new skills, increase their independence and get life-enriching experiences thanks to the support of local businesses.

City of York Council has been working with local businesses to help care leavers gain access to work experience, training and employment opportunities. The partnership has included GMI’s bespoke ‘Construction Cares’ Programme at York College, led by GMI Construction Group PLC, enabling young people to improve their DIY skills as they transition into independent living. Activities included learning how to hang shelves, putting on locks and door handles and painting and decorating. GMI Construction Group PLC is one of a host of organisations across the UK which have signed up to the Care Leaver Covenant and is a Signatory Partner. The covenant is a national initiative which supports care leavers aged 16-25 to live independently, creating education, employment and training opportunities. Businesses, education providers and other organisations can sign up to the Covenant to pledge their practical support to care leavers. Other businesses across the city have offered support for care leavers in other ways, including providing work experience opportunities, Christmas gifts and tickets to local sporting events. Claire Preston – Head of Responsible Business at GMI Construction Group PLC, said: “GMI Construction Group PLC created their bespoke ‘Construction Cares Programme’ in 2023 and have so far delivered this programme in Birmingham, Manchester and York and have had over 55 care leavers attend. It is so important to teach young people life skills so they can adapt them when moving into a home of their own. Three care leavers from the programme have gone into full-time apprenticeships and four have signed up for a Construction qualification. “I really believe that companies of all sizes can create support offers for care leavers. If you can get senior buy-in and you have the will to support young people, you can overcome challenges that SMEs might face in signing up to programmes like the Covenant.” Cllr Bob Webb, City of York Council’s Executive Member for Children, Young People and Education, said: “The businesses we’ve been working with have already demonstrated how keen they are to provide opportunities for our care leavers and it’s fantastic to see the city supporting its own. “I know that many other local businesses may want to get involved but may not know where to start. I’d encourage them to look at the care leaver inclusive employment guide [toolkit] on the care leavers’ covenant website or get in touch with our dedicated employment and opportunities lead for care leavers in York who will be able to advise them how they can best help. “Care leavers have been supported by social workers and foster carers for periods of time during their childhoods because they weren’t able to live with their birth families. This may mean they have fewer opportunities compared to their non-care experienced peers when they reach 18 years of age. That’s why it’s so important that we pull together as a city to nurture them through early adulthood, just as the parents of any young person would do.”
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