On Wednesday 20^th March, the Property & Business Investment Lincolnshire Expo  will take place at The Bentley Hotel, South Hykeham, Lincoln, LN6 9NH. The event focuses on all things property, construction, investment and related services, bringing together industry professionals to discuss and deliver business opportunities. Sponsors include Team Lincolnshire, Lincolnshire Chamber of Commerce and Invest East Midlands, all looking to deliver growth and encourage investment within the region. The event is free to attend. The exhibition opens at 9am, followed by Nespresso coffee and celebration cake at 11am-11:30am where we will be joined by Lee Marshall, Managing Director of Viridis for an informative update on Net Zero. 11:30am – 12:15pm is a Speed Network session courtesy of Lincoln Business Club who are celebrating 20 years. The exhibition will end at 1pm. Don’t dash off though as there is another great networking opportunity. Join Lincolnshire Chamber of Commerce at their March Construction & Property Network.  All networking opportunities are delivered free of charge when pre-registered. Register online at https://businessshowsgroup.co.uk/lincoln/  Tina King, the Event Organiser, expressed that after 25 years, they have successfully established a well-targeted event catering to professionals in the Property, Construction, Professional Services, Business, Finance, and Investment sectors. She confirmed the primary objective is to provide an environment where clients and delegates can connect with new clients, cultivate relationships, and expand business opportunities in a cost-effective and efficient manner. The event aims to bring together industry experts, facilitate networking, and provide a platform for collaboration and growth. On 11^th November 2024 we have the big East Midlands Expo, held at the same venue for 25 years, EMCC, Nottingham.Back in 1999, Martin Freeman saw a gap in the market that no one else had, a starting point to bring together like-minded people from within Property, Construction, B2B, Finance & Investment all under one roof for one amazing day. The event has continued to grow and evolve. Many exhibitors have been at the event every year since it started. Martin acknowledges: “Throughout the years, we have seen many changes within the industry, many strong and positive, but also some challenging and difficult times. “However, the property and construction industry remains robust and unwavering, supported by a dedicated and well-informed workforce that diligently seeks solutions in every circumstance. Tina & I thank each and every one of you for your support over the years.” The events attract a wide variety of exhibitors and attendees including professional intermediaries, environmental consultants, engineering consultants, contractors, financiers and brokers, estate and property agents, landowners, property developers, investors, construction companies, interior design & fit out, marketing, B2B & PR agencies. Testimony to the success of the events and in their effectiveness of matching buyers and suppliers shows in the planning and delivery of present and forthcoming projects and in the strength of the business relationships that develop post event. Pre-register for free registration at https://businessshowsgroup.co.uk/register/  Contact tina@businessshowsgroup.co.uk for further information on exhibiting.  20^th March 2024 – Property & Business Investment Lincolnshire Expo  11^th November 2024 – East Midlands Expo with Property & Business Investment Show Nottingham 

Business confidence in Yorkshire and the Humber fell 13 points during February to 31%, according to the latest Business Barometer from Lloyds Bank Commercial Banking.

Companies in Yorkshire and the Humber reported lower confidence in their own business prospects month-on-month, down 17 points to 37%. When taken alongside their optimism in the economy, down nine points to 25%, this gives a headline confidence reading of 31% (vs. 44% in January).

However, a net balance of 39% of businesses in the region expected to increase staff levels over the next year, up 10 points on last month.

Yorkshire and the Humber businesses identified their top target areas for growth in the next six months as investing in their team (43%), introducing new technology (31%), and investing in environmental sustainability measures (27%).

The Business Barometer, which surveys 1,200 businesses monthly, provides early signals about UK economic trends both regionally and nationwide.

National picture 

Overall, UK business confidence dipped two points in February to 42%, driven by softening confidence from firms in both their own trading prospects (49% vs. 51% in January) and the wider economy (34% vs. 37% in January).

Companies’ hiring intentions increased to the highest level since May 2022, with 36% of firms intending to increase staff levels over the next 12 months, up three points on the month before.

Sector Insights

There was a mixed picture for sectors this month. Confidence fell in manufacturing (nine points to 40%) and construction (seven points to 38%) respectively, although results remain higher than the same time last year. In contrast, the dominant services sector was unchanged compared to January at 45%, exceeding all months of 2023 except for November. Retail confidence was broadly steady, dipping one point to 41%.

Steve Harris, regional director for Yorkshire and the Humber at Lloyds Bank Commercial Banking, said: “While business confidence fell slightly in February, this data paints a clear picture of a region looking ahead with optimism.

“It’s particularly good to see a growing number of businesses planning to hire. This shows firms are gearing up for future growth or are looking to staff newly secured contracts, and it’s a move that will benefit local communities and the regional economy, not just firms themselves.

“Meanwhile, it’s encouraging to see sustainability as a top business focus area. This aligns with Yorkshire and the Humber’s reputation as a national powerhouse for the UK’s green economy – reflected in the announcement of planning permission for a major new carbon capture project in East Yorkshire last week that promises the creation of thousands more jobs for the county.”

Hann-Ju Ho, Senior Economist, Lloyds Bank Commercial Banking, said: “This month’s data still reflects a positive mood among businesses despite a marginal fall in overall confidence. Firms appear to be upbeat about their prospects and the economy, supporting their positive staffing expectations.

“Looking at the sectors, there is a mixed picture. There was a slight fall in confidence reported in the manufacturing and construction sectors, while retail and services stood their ground – remaining unchanged compared to January’s figures. But despite the manufacturing and construction fall, businesses are still showing high levels of confidence.

“The split across the regions also provides reason to view the dip in confidence at the broader UK level cautiously. Six regions have reported an increase in confidence while the other six have reported a decrease. So, scratching the surface, we see a story that continues to show a more positive outlook for the year ahead.”

Northern Gritstone, the investment company focused on science and technology-enabled businesses in the North of England, and Deeptech Labs, the expert in turning breakthrough scientific advances into category defining companies, have formed a unique partnership.

The partnership – NG Studios powered by Deeptech Labs – will accelerate the creation of deeptech spinouts. Working closely with the universities of Leeds, Manchester and Sheffield, each university will identify early-stage spinouts to participate in a ten-week programme delivered by the new partnership.

The programme will provide bespoke venture-building activities covering strategy, operations, and capital-raising. It will also bring founders into the Deeptech Labs’ global ecosystem of technology entrepreneurs and investors to complement the universities’ own support and communities.

Duncan Johnson, CEO of Northern Gritstone, said: “Northern Gritstone’s three founding universities are highly regarded for nurturing technical talent and commercializing intellectual property through spinouts to create tomorrow’s world-class businesses.

“Innovation thrives when it is part of a collaborative and supportive ecosystem of talent and capital. NG Studios powered by Deeptech Labs will help accelerate the process by broadening access to the innovation ecosystem and helping academics test and develop their business strategies. We are delighted to partner with Deeptech Labs given their deeptech expertise”

Miles Kirby, CEO of Deeptech Labs, said: “We are delighted to partner with Northern Gritstone to support the commercialisation of the world-class research from the universities of Leeds, Manchester, and Sheffield.

“It represents a strategic expansion for Deeptech Labs to deliver on our goal of enabling breakthrough science to be commercialised at scale and to catalyse the deeptech ecosystem across the UK and Europe.”

A short course taking place in March will examine the issues surrounding the safe handling and storage of bulk materials in ports and on the sea. Taking place from 19 – 22 March 2024, with on-line delivery from 13:00 – 17:00 each day, join this course from the University of Greenwich’s Wolfson Centre to discuss real life issues and to determine best practice for future developments. Subjects discussed include: · Ship unloading technologies (Grabs vs CSUs, different CSU technologies) · Conveying technologies (pneumatic versus belt) · Storage and discharge technologies (silos, flat stores, stacking etc) · Loading, unloading control (weighing, controlling ship bending etc) · Rail and road outloading equipment and control · Explosion and fire risks and management (ATEX, fire control & management) · Mobile plant and safety · Developments in automation and autonomous vehicles · Dust control and environmental protection · Controlling cargo damage (particle degradation, spoilage, water damage etc) · Wear protection and maintenance · Cargo characterisation for handleability and other issues Who should attend? Stevedores, Operations supervisors, Port managers, Ships Masters, Port developers, Cargo superintendents, Equipment suppliers, Design consultants. The course leader is Mike Bradley, Professor of Bulk and Particulate Technologies and Director of The Wolfson Centre. He has worked internationally on design and troubleshooting for bulk solids handling as a commercial consultant and research expert for over twenty-five years. Contributions will also be made by Dr Baldeep Kaur, whose interests lie in characterisation and transportation of bulk materials, and Mr Lukas Paul from Beumer who will be presenting on ‘Shore Side Transport’. This course is held in association with ABTO, The Association of Bulk Terminal Operators – members will receive discounted rates. Discounts are also offered for multiple bookings and returning delegates.

Register now.

The full list of courses for 2024 and their content is available here. All courses are available in-company so if the dates don’t suit operations, or you have a large number of attendees, please contact The Wolfson Centre for details. wolfson-enquiries@gre.ac.uk www.bulksolids.com +44 20 8331 8646

West Yorkshire business leaders will meet to discuss plans to boost economic growth and innovation in the region. The first meeting of a new West Yorkshire Business Board will be led by Mayor Tracy Brabin’s recently appointed Business Advisor, Mandy Ridyard, who has been tasked with ensuring the region’s businesses have the support and opportunities they need to thrive. The Board will bring together local business and community leaders with expertise across multiple sectors, including manufacturing, professional services, and the arts. Their insights will help to drive forward the Mayor’s pledge to champion the regional economy, by providing a voice for the region’s diverse base of almost 100,000 businesses. Business Advisor to the Mayor of West Yorkshire, Mandy Ridyard, said: “We’re going to make sure the voice of the private sector is heard by policymakers and leaders, helping us build a prosperous and innovative environment where everyone can start and grow a business. “West Yorkshire businesses have some amazing talent and incredible innovation, but we face significant challenges including sustainability and productivity. Tackling these together will help us deliver the growth we all want. “My role is to make sure that the voice of businesses are heard and that together we grow the prosperous, inclusive economy that West Yorkshire deserves.” The Business Board will help shape a forthcoming economic strategy for West Yorkshire, and provide input on the Mayor’s business support and skills schemes, ensuring the voice of business is at the centre of decision-making at the Combined Authority. The meeting follows the recent launch of the West Yorkshire Fair Work Charter, designed to help businesses promote and recognise the positive impact of fair work. To date, over 100 businesses have committed to working towards fair pay and flexible working conditions, as well as greater wellbeing, diversity and progression opportunities for all within the workplace.

HICA Group has taken over the ownership of Swan House Day Centre, on Victoria Road in Bridlington, for an undisclosed sum. The centre helps to improve the independence and social engagement of service users who have a range of learning disabilities. The acquisition marks a key extension of HICA’s portfolio, demonstrating the Group’s commitment to broadening its spectrum of care and support services within the community. HICA stepped in to ensure the continued operation of the day care centre formerly owned by John and Susan Ropero. With the Roperos retiring, the Group wanted to ensure the day centre stayed open given the valuable role it plays in the community. The centre is renowned for being a vital social hub for individuals with learning disabilities, fostering a supportive and inclusive environment where service users can develop lasting friendships, enhance their social skills and feel a sense of belonging within the local area. Swan House currently employs three people, with the acquisition providing job security and the ability to expand the team when needed. Terry Peel, HICA’s CEO, said: “We’re thrilled to welcome Swan House Day Centre into the HICA family. “This partnership not only expands our service offerings but also strengthens our resolve to support individuals in leading fulfilling lives as valued community members. It aligns perfectly with our broader mission to support and enrich local social care services who do a sterling job in delivering compassionate, person-centered care.” In Bridlington, the purchase of Swan House adds to other support facilities HICA operates in the area which include Red House, a 48 bed residential care home, on St Annes Road, that provides specialised dementia care and physical support to older people, and Kirkgate House residential care home that provides care and support to 28 adults with learning disabilities. Sue Cartwright, a support worker at Swan House, said: “The team is excited to join forces with HICA Group. “This new chapter not only secures the future of our Centre but also opens up opportunities for expansion of our services and enhanced support for our service users. HICA Group’s reputation in delivering high-quality care and support aligns with our mission to offer exceptional services. This partnership enables us to continue to serve the local community with more support and resources. It’s an exciting time for the future of the centre.”

The government has set out a vision for workplace culture changes to support autistic people to start and stay in work. And Sir Robert Buckland, who led the review, has urged employers to get involved. He said:  “The review can make a truly radical difference to the lives of autistic people and their families. I call on employers and government to lead this change and make these recommendations a reality.” About three in 10 working age autistic people are in employment, compared with half of all disabled people and 8 in 10 non-disabled people, despite the majority saying they would like to be employed. A review has made a number of recommendations for businesses and government, including:

• signing up for the Autistica Neurodiversity Employers Index to access guidance on designing inclusive processes and procedures
• encouraging career progression by developing packages of training focused on autistic staff
• improving recruitment by ensuring careers advisers can provide appropriate advice to autistic jobseekers
• supporting autistic people who are already in the workplace by producing “autism design guides” to create appropriate premises, furnishings and equipment
• working with software suppliers to develop IT systems that meet autistic people’s needs.

The Buckland Review of Autism Employment was supported by charity Autistica and includes the views of hundreds of employers and autistic people. It sets out how businesses and government can work together over the next five years – whether that is showcasing the successes of autism employment, developing pilot programmes in national and multinational companies, or providing tailored support for autistic staff at work. Secretary of State for Work and Pensions, Mel Stride MP, said: “I want autistic people to have every opportunity to benefit from work, and recognise that businesses and government must come together if we are to create the cultural change needed to move the dial. “Backed by the extra employment support provided through our £2.5 billion Back to Work Plan, this report provides employers with practical and inexpensive steps to open up workplaces to autistic people, boost employment rates and, above all, change autistic people’s lives.”

From Thursday Yorkshire Wenselydale cheese and smoked fish from Grimsby will have protected status thanks to a new agreement between the UK and Japan to prevent imitation. They’re two items on a list of 37 items to be granted special protected status for which Japan’s population of 125 million has a strong appetite. The country’s status as the world’s third largest economy in 2022 and GDP per capita of £27,400 highlights the strength of its consumer market and the commercial opportunities for premium British products in Japan. Securing GIs for iconic British products such as our region’s cheese and fish as well as Melton Mowbray Pork Pies and Welsh Beef prevents counterfeit products being placed on the Japanese market, ensuring UK businesses can export with confidence and consumers receive authentic, high-quality products. Trade Policy Minister Greg Hands said: “The UK’s excellent selection of unique, high-quality products are highly sought after around the world. Consumers in Japan can now be assured that they are enjoying the authentic taste of great British food and drink.

“This  gives UK producers added confidence when selling into Japan, part of our plan to help British businesses grow and export more.”

Food and Farming Minister Mark Spencer said: “Our GI protections are a guarantee of quality and excellence – so that the best of British food and drink can be appreciated not only here in the UK, but around the globe.

“These additional protections will give assurance to British farmers and producers who export their unique products to Japan – and to Japanese consumers who will know they are buying the real thing.

“For UK businesses, GIs are vital for building trust and enhancing brand recognition, ultimately driving export growth and supporting the sustainability of local industries. They also reinforce the UK’s position as a producer of distinctive and sought-after goods.”

ASM Global has been revealed as the new operator for Utilita Arena Sheffield, as of January 2025. Last year, Sheffield City Council revealed that the city’s leisure and entertainment venues were set to receive £117 million of investment including rebuilds of some of the city’s most popular leisure centres and improvements to Sheffield’s Arena and City Hall. As part of these plans, in June 2023, a competitive procurement process was launched in a bid to attract the best in leisure and entertainment provision to run Sheffield’s venues. Operators were invited to bid on the running of Utilita Arena Sheffield. Following a robust eight-month tender process, the Council has now selected ASM Global as the successful bidder and the new operator for the Arena. ASM Global is one of the world’s leading producers of entertainment experiences, venue management and event strategy. Councillor Richard Williams, Chair of the Communities, Parks and Leisure Committee at Sheffield City Council, said: “I am really pleased to welcome ASM Global onboard as the new operators of Sheffield Arena, this is a major step forward in our ambitious plan for the city and entertainment facilities. “ASM Global have an unrivalled reputation in the global venue industry and this new investment will certainly allow us to compete on a global scale.” Utilita Arena Sheffield joins ASM Global’s network of more than 350 venues around the world, which collectively host 20,000 events and welcome 164 million guests every year. Councillor Tom Hunt, Leader of Sheffield City Council, said: “We are thrilled that ASM Global have chosen to work with us to bring the benefits of global scale to operate and invest in Sheffield’s Utilita Arena. “Sheffield is a city on the up. Coming on the back of hosting the MOBO Awards and with the city’s rich musical and sporting history and our reputation for hosting major events, this new exciting partnership with ASM Global is another example of our ambition for Sheffield.” Chris Bray, President of ASM Global Europe, said: “Sheffield is a city with a rich cultural heritage. It’s known and loved for producing some of the UK’s most exciting musical talent who’ve gone on to put Sheffield on the map on a global scale. We are hugely excited to have been appointed to operate the Utilita Arena, which joins ASM’s industry-leading UK portfolio. “Our goal is to ensure the venue is a must-play for world-class artists, and that the content is diverse, exciting and world-leading. We have exciting plans for reimagining the customer experience too and are looking forward to getting better acquainted with the city very soon.” Alongside the Council’s earmarked investment, which will benefit a number of venues and services across the city, ASM Global have committed to significant investment to re-vamp the Arena.