South Yorkshire businesses urged to share employment experiences
South Yorkshire’s trio of Chambers of Commerce want to hear from businesses in their region about their experiences of recruitment and staff retention.
The Chambers are running a repeat of the People Survey to gauge whether or not the situation has improved much for employers over the past twelve months, and to observe any new trends that may be developing.
Among other things, the form asks searching questions about how long vacancies are being left unfilled, what strategies & incentives are currently being used to retain staff, and the necessity of increasing salaries for new starters.
Equipped with these insights, Chambers for Sheffield, Barnsley & Rotherham, and Doncaster will then be better placed to represent the business community on all of these pressing issues.
Feeding into the nationwide Quarterly Economic Survey, the poll also asks organisations a number of questions, about the state of the economy and overall business conditions, including sections on cashflow, turnover, capacity, and price pressures, all of which are repeated in every single iteration of the QES. Meanwhile, there is an opportunity for respondents to explain what more their local authority and national government could be doing to supporting them during these uncertain times.
Encouraging businesses to take The People Survey, the respective Chief Execs for the three South Yorkshire Chambers issued a joint statement: “Last time we ran The People Survey, we discovered that a staggering 89% of businesses trying to recruit at the time were experiencing difficulties. We know that this is a perennial struggle of course, which is why we have decided to circle back around and ask those very same questions again, in order to see if the situation has improved or worsened.
“With that in mind, it is important that organisations take the time to have their say here and to articulate their own experiences. The findings from this survey will enable us to understand the major obstacles that the private sector is facing right now and to really get under the bonnet of this complicated issue.
“As representatives of the business community, we always strive to amplify the voice of South Yorkshire employers and will lobby for meaningful change on their behalf.
“In fact, just last week we published our Local Skills Improvement Plan (LSIP), which outlines 36 practical recommendations for how the skills system in our region can be changed to better meet the needs of employers. We were only able to produce that document with the help of businesses, who kindly shared their insights with us and engaged in the consultation process.
“Their input was instrumental in the creation of the LSIP, and we are asking for it again now with The People Survey, so that we can better understand the issues that organisations are facing when it comes to recruitment and retention. We need as many responses as possible to this questionnaire and it only takes about 10 minutes to complete, yet every single form completed counts.
“As part of the national Quarterly Economic Survey, the results will not only be analyzed by ourselves but also by our umbrella body the British Chamber of Commerce (BCC) and will be closely watched by policymakers as well. So it’s important that they’re hearing from South Yorkshire.”
The People Survey is open from now until Monday the 18th of September. Businesse
Doncaster gets green light for second University Technical College
Doncaster is to have a second University Technical College by September 2025, it has been announced, with a focus on the Health & Wellbeing sector.
Dan Fell, Chief Exec of Doncaster Chamber, said: “After a number of high-profile setbacks in recent months, this is a much-needed win for our city and an encouraging sign that we can turn things around.
“The original UTC has been a real asset for us. Indeed, helping to get that off the ground — by chairing its bid, drumming up political support, getting buy-in from the business community and even getting into the granularity of its design— is one of my proudest achievements as Chief Exec of the Chamber.
“I am confident that this new college will open up doors for Doncaster’s next generation of talent, especially those who are determined to pursue careers in health and wellbeing.
“There is always high demand for talent in these areas and anyone who decides to hone the relevant skills will undoubtedly have bright futures ahead of them. Young people who enrol at this second UTC will therefore be in a very strong position when it comes to entering the workforce later in life.
“In terms of employment partners, the college — and by extension its students — will be working closely with the NHS and other big players in the health sector.
“These are certainly promising foundations to begin with but, in order for the new UTC to be every bit as successful as its forbear, we need the voice of business to be at its heart. That’s why I’d like to encourage any other employers who are invested in fostering the next generation of talent to similarly reach out and see what role they can play in the college’s future.
“Once again, I’d like to welcome this much-needed positive news for Doncaster and to congratulate everyone involved for making it happen, especially those at the Brighter Futures Learning Partnership Multi-Academy Trust, who have done so much to diversify Doncaster’s education offer and embed work readiness in what they do. If today’s news is anything to go by, it seems that our city is getting back to its winning ways. And long may it continue.”
Yorkshire-based gym club business expands into Nottinghamshire
The chain of gymnastics clubs named after Leeds-born Olympic medallist Nile Wilson is continuing to expand with the acquisition of a Beth Tweddle Gymnastics centre in Mansfield.
Established in 2019 with the vision of increasing participation in the sport at all levels, the first Nile Wilson Gymnastics Club opened in Dinnington, Rotherham, and was quickly followed by a second club in Bramley, Leeds, last year and a third club in Coventry in early 2023.
The acquisition of the Nottinghamshire gymnastics club enables the business to expand into the East Midlands as it pursues its vision of creating a network of gymnastics clubs around the UK that ‘change the game’ by delivering unique and more engaging activities, balanced against the requirements of gymnastics programmes. The clubs are suitable for all ages, offering pre-school programmes and recreational gymnastics for 4-16 year olds, through to adult gymnastics.
Beth Tweddle Gymnastics will be re-branded as Nile Wilson Gymnastics Mansfield and is already open at Portland Retail Park.
The acquisition completed earlier this month with Nile Wilson Gymnastics once again supported by Leeds law firm Clarion which also advised on its Leeds and Coventry sites. The Clarion team included Caitlin Hare (corporate) and Grace Allison (property).
Luke Sutton, director of Nile Wilson Gymnastics said: “As a group of people, led by Nile, we are laser focused on creating the best possible gymnastics experience for both gymnasts and parents at all our clubs. Our aim is for everyone to leave our clubs with a smile on their face.
“We have some major development plans for our club in Mansfield and it will become a centre point for gymnasts and coaches in the Midlands. Our overall business continues to go from strength to strength and this acquisition is another step forward in an exciting journey that we have mapped out.”
Caitlin Hare of Clarion adds: “It’s really satisfying to see such a successful Yorkshire-based business continuing to grow and expand beyond the region. We look forward to work alongside the Nile Wilson Gymnastics team as it pursues its ambitious vision.”
Hull businessman shortlisted for national industry award
Tony Prescott, the managing director of Hull-based GTS UK, has been shortlisted for a prestigious, national industry award.
The MD is in the running for Logistics Leader of the Year at the 2023 Logistics UK Awards for his work in founding the logistics firm and overseeing its subsequent growth.
Launched from his home office in 2015, Tony has evolved GTS UK into a team of 13 staff managing customs, intermodal transport, supply chain management and trucking divisions, now working out of its Springfield Way headquarters in Anlaby. The company also employs six HGV drivers.
Tony said: “I’m so proud to be shortlisted and get this acknowledgement from within my industry. The shortlisting should also be viewed as recognition for my incredible team; they are a key part of my success and the continued growth of GTS UK.”
The Logistics UK awards are one of the leading awards events in the industry and celebrate achievements in the road, rail, sea and air sectors as well as operators, manufacturers, logistics and support industries.
Nominees will be judged and selected by the Logistics UK Board and announced at an awards ceremony on 7th December in London.
Leeds’ 18-century Brookfield House receives half a million pound renovation
Tailored office providers, WorkWell, is celebrating 50% occupancy pre-let, following a £500,000 investment to redevelop the Leeds-based 18-century manor.
Purchased by the Corrigan family in 2002, Brookfield House has been the home to Leeds-based businesses for the last 21 years. Currently undergoing an extensive renovation, the office space is set to open in September 2023 and is already signing up new customers ahead of its launch.
Located next to Brookfield Court on Selby Road, the renovation of Brookfield House will create access between the two impressive red-brick office buildings, and will feature new office space, an open plan kitchen, a new reception and additional meeting space including two new meeting rooms and a 16-person boardroom available to the public for corporate bookings.
Oliver Corrigan, Managing Director at WorkWell, said: “Brookfield House has proudly been a part of the WorkWell portfolio for many years, and my family has personally farmed the area for 50 plus years, so we’re thrilled to be able to create a greater future for the building while respecting its incredible past.
“At WorkWell we’re proud to offer a different way of working with Leeds businesses. Our approach is not just about offering an office space with four walls. Each office park within our portfolio perfectly balances aesthetics with functionality, to create a purpose-designed office space which aligns with our member’s company values and purpose.”
Designed by northern-based creatives, Ekho Studio, the former manor house will combine impressive aesthetics with performance-enhancing technology and will feature 9,000 square feet of workable space set amongst 100 acres of accessible countryside.
Scunthorpe firm wins contract with offshore wind farm
Scunthorpe-based AMS Trenchless will undertake specialist works at the landfall site at Weybourne, North Norfolk where the offshore cables meet the onshore cables connecting the Ørsted wind farm to the National Grid.
Using Horizontal Directional Drilling – a method of installing ducting, pipes and cables beneath existing infrastructure without disruption – AMS Trenchless will install underground cable ducts that allow export cables to be pulled to land from a jack-up barge without using trenches or disrupting the existing sea defences.
This contract builds on the existing relationship between the east-coast firm and Ørsted following successful works for both Hornsea 1 and Hornsea 2 offshore windfarms.
Hornsea 3 will consist of up to 231 offshore wind turbines, located approximately 120 km off the Norfolk coast and 160 km off the Yorkshire coast. With a capacity of around 2,85GW, Hornsea 3 will be capable of producing enough low-cost, clean, renewable electricity to power over 3 million UK homes. The project is currently working towards taking a Final Investment Decision.
Luke Bridgman, Hornsea 3 Senior Project Director, said: “After successful collaborations with AMS Trenchless on the Hornsea 1 and Hornsea 2 projects, we look forward to AMS utilizing their specialist expertise and understanding of gigawatt-scale projects to deliver further great work on Hornsea 3. Orsted and our key supply chain partners continue to engage with local suppliers to deliver this ground-breaking project, with this announcement today further testament to our commitment to support the further growth of the UK supply chain.”
Matt Waterson, AMS Trenchless Operations Director, added: “AMS has a long-standing relationship with Ørsted, having previously completed directional drilling works to land offshore cables on both Hornsea 1 and Hornsea 2 projects. We would like to thank Ørsted for the award and very much looking forward to working together again on Hornsea 3.”
Goole freeport tax site submitted to Government to unlock investment opportunities
The footprint for the freeport tax site in Goole has been submitted to Government, with the aim of unlocking prime inward investment opportunities.
The 200-hectares Goole freeport site, which is split into two plots separated by the M62 motorway, offers investors a range of highly-attractive benefits.
In recent years, Goole has established itself as an investment hotspot, attracting major developments by blue chip businesses including train builder Siemens Mobility and FTSE-listed chemicals specialist Croda.
It is expected confirmation of the Goole freeport tax site – one of three within the Humber Freeport area – will spark further significant investment in the East Yorkshire town.
Goole benefits from excellent transport links via road, rail and sea, with access within minutes to the M62 and onward to Leeds, Manchester and Liverpool, and across the UK via the national motorway network. It is also connected to global shipping opportunities via the Humber Estuary.
Simon Bird, Chair of Humber Freeport, said: “Submitting the footprint for the Goole tax site represents an exciting and significant milestone for Humber Freeport.
“Each of our three tax sites – in Hull, Goole and Immingham – offers something completely unique. The Goole tax site benefits from a strategically significant location, suitable for advanced manufacturing and other sectors, with easy access to the M62 motorway, excellent rail connections and port links to the Humber Estuary.
“Goole has seen major investment from global companies who have already seen the huge opportunity it presents. Freeport status further enhances that opportunity, opening up new corridors of development and economic growth.”
The Humber region was granted Freeport Tax Site Status in 2021, with a total portfolio of 600 hectares of land available for investment across the three sites.
The Goole tax site is a large, undeveloped plot of land adjacent to the existing Goole 36 Enterprise Zone. The Enterprise Zone is already home to Guardian Industries’ glass plant, a Tesco distribution centre and – following construction of the Tom Pudding Way link road to open up the remaining development plots – Croda’s new international distribution centre.
The University of Birmingham also recently announced plans to develop a £15m rail research centre, next to the RaisE business centre within the Enterprise Zone.
The formal boundary map for the Goole freeport tax site has now been submitted to Government.
Businesses investing in the tax site can benefit from accelerated capital allowances, stamp duty and land tax relief, business rate relief, and no employer National Insurance contributions for the first three years.
Councillor Anne Handley, Leader of East Riding of Yorkshire Council, said: “The Council has been working closely with the Humber Freeport Company to support tax site development. This is a major step forward in formally establishing the site at Goole.
“Once approved, the freeport will create a natural extension to the existing Goole Enterprise Zone, providing a wealth of opportunity for new job-creating investments.
“Such investments will not only be good for Goole, they will also have a positive impact on the growth of the wider UK economy.”
Humber Freeport’s mission is to drive hundreds of millions of pounds of investment and generate at least 7,000 new jobs.
Several companies have already announced plans to invest on freeport sites within the Humber region, including Siemens, rare earth exploration company Pensana and green hydrogen specialist Meld Energy.
Demolition starts for the UKs largest open-die forging line
Demolition has started at an iconic Yorkshire plant to facilitate construction of the UKs largest open-die forging line.
Parts of Sheffield Forgemasters’ site at the north of Brightside Lane, are undergoing controlled demolition to create space for a 13,000 tonne Heavy Forge, which will be housed in a new 12,700 sq m structure adjacent to the Sheffield to Meadowhall train line.
Sections of disused Forge and Foundry buildings, dating from the Victorian era, will make way for the new facility, creating one of the most efficient open-die forging operations in Europe and the largest of its kind within the UK.
Steve Marshall, Manufacturing Transformation Director at Sheffield Forgemasters, said: “It has taken two years of planning and enabling works to bring us to this milestone, where we start to expose the footprint for our new forging line.
“Much of the structure earmarked for demolition has been out of use for some time. We have created a secure partitioning wall which fully isolates working parts of the site from the controlled, piecemeal demolition process.”
Remediation works for the site, have included dismantling internal steel structures, stabilisation of the ground, pile-driving to create a base for the segregation wall and meticulous identification and removal of any contaminants.
Steve added: “We have employed large numbers of specialist contractors to reach the point at which the proposed site is environmentally sound and meets all health and safety requirements for demolition, including creation of a new access road onto Brightside Lane.
“From this point, the work becomes much more measurable, as we begin to open up the space that the new Forge will fill.”
The recapitalisation team at Sheffield Forgemasters, responsible for the Forge project, estimates that more than 25,000m3 of spoil will need to be excavated for foundations to support the vast press, with 4,500m3 of existing concrete to be crushed.
Steve continued: “The whole project is working to the best environmental standards, so all spoil from the site will be graded and recycled as far as is possible.”
It is estimated that the multi-million GBP project will see completion of the foundations by 2025. The new facility will service defence and commercial work in sectors such as civil nuclear power.
Online tool giant appoints Modo25 on six-figure contract to accelerate growth
Leeds-based full-service digital marketing agency, Modo25, has been appointed by the leading UK online tool retailer, SGS Engineering, to provide multiple channels of digital marketing support and consultancy services.
Continuing to cement its expertise in the retail sector, Modo25 has partnered with SGS Engineering to enable them to scale their online revenue and ROI from their investment in digital marketing. Modo25 will be providing them with expert SEO, affiliate marketing, paid social, paid search and digital PR services.
The 12-month six-figure contract will see the digital marketing experts develop and implement a full-funnel digital marketing strategy that will ensure that the investment in digital marketing gives create sales growth and significant ROI for the online retailer’s website.
SGS Engineering was founded in 2003, they spotted a gap in the market for UK-manufactured gas struts that could be built to an exacting standard and distributed quickly over the internet. Since launching, the company has gone from strength to strength and is now spanning five sites in Derby and employs 55 people.
Neil Sansom recently joined SGS Engineering as the new CEO, using his wealth of online retailing experience to drive the business through its next phase of growth.
Aside from delivering digital marketing support to SGS Engineering, they will also benefit from utilising the awarding winning marketing AI platform ASK BOSCO®.
ASK BOSCO® has been developed over four years by the Modo25 data scientists and in-house development team. ASK BOSCO® is an AI-powered marketing analytics platform that enables brands and agencies to reduce their online ad spend and increase sales.
The platform connects all a client’s marketing channel data and combines the reporting into a central dashboard, enabling seamless reporting, and benchmarking. ASK BOSCO®, then using this data will AI forecast exactly where to invest media spend for maximum return.
Discussing the appointment Neil Sansom, chief executive officer, at SGS Engineering said: “As SGS Engineering continues to grow and expand, we wanted to change up our marketing strategy and partner with an agency that has expert knowledge, understanding of the online retail space backup by market-leading AI tech.
“After detailed conversations and pitches with the team at Modo25, we felt confident in their ability to deliver this with their expert knowledge, insight, and access to relevant industry tools and ASK BOSCO®. It’s been great onboarding the team at Modo25 to support our marketing vision and business growth ambitions.”
Businesses across Yorkshire warned of the impact of upcoming online safety bill
Online businesses across Yorkshire, that are selling age restricted products or services, are exploiting a current lack of regulation and face being unprepared for the online safety bill due this Autumn.
The warning to firms comes as a study conducted by digital identity platform, Luciditi reveals that weapons, alcohol and vapes are just some of the items that children as young as seven years old can purchase online from businesses across the region without having to securely verify their age.
Although the forthcoming government Online Safety Bill anticipated later this year will tighten regulations, there is currently no robust law enforcement in place to prevent companies selling to under-age people online.
Iain Corby, executive director for the Age Verification Providers Association, a politically neutral trade body representing all areas of the age-assurance ecosystem, commented: “For too long, regulators have neglected enforcement of age restrictions online. We are now seeing their attention shift towards the internet, and those firms which offer goods and services where a minimum age applies, should urgently implement a robust age verification solution to avoid very heavy fines.”
Ian Moody, co-founder and CEO for Luciditi, commented: “The law is very clear in that it is an offence to sell items such as weapons, alcohol and vapes to under-age children online and yet our study reveals that many online businesses across Yorkshire still don’t have either the technological capabilities or the appetite to adhere to it.”
The research conducted coincides with the launch today of Luciditi’s new online age check solution called Luciditi Age Assurance. It can be deployed across an online retailer’s website or mobile app and simply requires shoppers to take a selfie prior to accessing the site Within seconds it will confirm if they are over a certain age, does not reveal their identity and is the digital equivalent of being age estimated at the check-out in a supermarket or off-license by a member of staff.
Ian added: “Under-age online purchases are going largely unchallenged and so we feel we’ve developed a solution that enables online companies to protect young people, whilst simplifying the transaction process.
“We will naturally welcome the Online Safety Bill when it is unveiled but it will take at least 18 months for the new regulations to be enforced. We’d urge companies across Yorkshire to take steps now to safeguard young people online rather than wait until the eleventh hour to take decisive action.”
Krone’s variable height trailers suit Euro work for A&A McNeill
A & A McNeill Transport has become a convert to Euroliner trailers after taking delivery of two Profi Liner curtainsiders from Leeds-based Krone Trailer UK.
Based in Airdrie, Scotland, the firm specialises in general haulage and operates five articulated trucks and 17 trailers, including the two from Krone.
Director Alan McNeill ordered the pair because a requirement to send loads to Europe necessitated four-metre-high trailers, as opposed to the UK-standard 4.4-metre units it has traditionally used.
Alan admitted that he was sceptical about the trailers before engaging with Krone: “I used to be against using Euroliners, because they are lower than UK trailers and our trailers are dropped on site for the customer to load. The build quality I’d seen from other manufacturers in the past wasn’t great regarding the strength of the structure, and the tarpaulin roofs collected rainwater, which could get in and damage the cargo.
“The goods we take south are all single deck, so four metres is fine. But our customer in England requires a higher internal height to double stack pallets. That’s when you need more internal height. We need about 2.7 metres for side loading, which is not possible with a standard four-metre trailer.”
Alan began investigating Krone’s trailers after a friend and fellow haulier bought a pair and was impressed with their strength and structure. The Profi Liner majors on flexibility, and its adjustable roof and ice protect system immediately addressed two of Alan’s chief concerns.
“They offered me the sliding and lifting roof option for both UK and European operation, which means we can get 2.7 metres in through the side and load through the top when needed. That gives us the best of both worlds – lower running height, greater loading flexibility and a maximum internal height of 2.850 metres.”
The Profi Liners also come with a lifting front axle to reduce rolling resistance and potential fuel use when running with lighter or reduced loads.
“They also have an anti-ice system, which is an airbag that runs down the centre of the trailer. You put the sidelights on, press the button to activate it, the bag inflates in three minutes and puts a pitch in the centre of the roof so that, when it rains, the water just runs off the sides. To deflate the airbag, you can either press the button again or the foot brake, and both will deflate the bag back to running height.
A & A McNeill’s Profi Liners are among the first in the UK to be fitted with Krone’s Ice-Protect Air system – one of many features that have drawn praise from Alan. He is also a fan of the multi-strap load securing system, which comprises multiple bungee cords that attach to ratchet straps inside the trailer. Plus, the seven-tonne load bearing hardwood floor, which he describes as, “much stronger than equivalents, and ideal for us, because there are heavy forklifts going in and out all the time.”
He also commends Krone’s customer service and willingness to tackle the issues he faces as an operator: “In response to every reason I gave Krone against a Euroliner, they gave me a positive solution. I wondered if they were just telling me that to get the sale, but they weren’t. Everything they said was going to happen, happened.”
The high-specification Profi Liners are finished in AA McNeill’s distinctive red and white livery with customised alloy rims. All steel parts are shot-blasted, powder coated and come with Krone’s standard 10-year warranty against rust-through.
New corporate strategy for housing association ‘at the top of its game’
Manningham Housing Association (MHA) has published a new streamlined corporate strategy and action plan with the theme of ‘Investing and Developing in Diverse Neighbourhoods where People Want to Live and Thrive.’
The three-year strategy centres on four overarching objectives: Providing More Affordable Homes, Looking After Our Existing Homes and Tenants, Community Investment and Partnership, and Tackling Inequalities in the BAME Community.
It also includes a restatement of MHA Values – Customer First, Passionate About Our Work, Accountability and Embrace Diversity – which have enabled the association to establish a strong reputation in the sector regionally and nationally, including winning several recent awards.
Lee Bloomfield, MHA Chief Executive, explained that the new document is focussed on delivery with defined policy outcomes and clear methods for achieving them to the fore.
He said: “It was important to have a strategy that was meaningful and easy to read and understand, whilst being ambitious in its aims.
“It is important that our customers, project partners and communities we serve can see what we are striving to do in our everyday activities and how we intend to meet our objectives.
“As well as providing more affordable homes by expanding stock numbers, we will maintain services for current tenants at the highest possible levels.
“Delivering our prized Community Investment and Partnership Strategy will remain a top priority as we seek to create new life opportunities for people of all ages in Bradford district.
“And we will continue to speak up for those whose voices are often unheard or ignored by those in authority, particularly when resources are allocated.”
Barrington Billings, MHA Chair, said: “As a Board, we were pleased to sign off the corporate strategy which will chart the association’s course until 2026.
“I have been involved in the production of numerous strategies over many years, and the simplicity of this document is what makes it stand out.
“One of MHA’s greatest strengths is that everyone knows their role in enabling the association to succeed.
“The new strategy and accompanying action plan – which is an effective roadmap for delivery – will further enhance our standing as a community-based BAME organisation at the top of its game.”
Founded in 1986, MHA manages more than 1,400 homes for over 6,000 residents in Bradford and Keighley.
It is the first housing association in the country to be officially accredited for its work in promoting equality, diversity and inclusion.
Yorkshire lawyer appointed as national Civil Justice Committee chair
Switalskis director John McQuater has been appointed by The Law Society as chair of the Civil Justice Committee.
Doncaster-based John McQuater has been a Committee member since 2021 and brings over 40 years’ experience of working as a litigation lawyer to the chair role. The Civil Justice Committee reviews and promotes improvements in civil litigation policy which relates to legal disputes between individuals or between individuals and organisations.
At Switalskis, which has offices in Yorkshire and London, John is joint head of Personal Injury. He qualified in 1983 and two years later became a partner at Doncaster-based Atherton Godfrey, now Switalskis. John McQuater says of his new role: “There are many important issues, affecting national and international civil litigation, which face the Law Society. My role, as chair, is to ensure the views and experience of committee members help both shape and implement Law Society policy.”
About his appointment, John says: “On a personal level this will be a welcome challenge. Welcome as it is always good to be working with talented and knowledgeable colleagues. A challenge as there are many current issues to tackle including the extension of fixed costs and the debate around Strategic Lawsuits Against Public Participation (SLAPPs).
“I hope my years of experience will help bring context and insights to many of the current issues the committee will be dealing with. I am grateful for the support of Switalskis, in taking on this role, where a number of colleagues also work at a national level.”
Law Society of England and Wales president Lubna Shuja says: “The Law Society welcomes and congratulates John McQuater on his recent appointment as Chair of our Civil Justice Committee. Having already served for several years on the Committee, John is well placed to lead its work over the next four years. It will be advising on issues affecting civil litigators and access to justice, areas in which he has much experience.”
John is also a member of the Association of Personal Injury Lawyers, with accredited status as a senior fellow – the only solicitor in Yorkshire to hold this status. He is the author of ‘Model Letters for Personal Injury Lawyers’ and the ‘APIL Guide to Personal Injury Claims Procedure’. He is a past president of the Doncaster and District Law Society and of the Yorkshire Union of Law Societies.
Motor Source Group and Aurora EV forge dynamic new business partnership
Motor Source Group, a provider of innovative salary sacrifice car programmes for businesses, and Aurora EV, an EV charge point installation business, have announced a strategic business relationship aimed at accelerating the adoption of electric vehicles (EVs) and fostering sustainable transportation solutions for business and employees.
Motor Source Group offers a comprehensive salary sacrifice car programme designed to assist businesses with a full motoring solution and providing a range of hybrid and electric vehicles to support the journey to achieve Net Zero goals. The company’s commitment to simplicity, along with a customer-focused approach, ensures that both businesses and employees experience seamless car procurement and management processes.
Aurora EV, with over five decades of combined experience in the motor and electrical industry, stands as a specialist installation business dedicated to providing top-tier EV charge point solutions. Their team of seasoned engineers possesses a wealth of knowledge and expertise, guaranteeing efficient and reliable installation and maintenance of EV charge points. Aurora EV’s reputation for quality and excellence in the EV infrastructure arena has made them a trusted partner for numerous businesses and individuals seeking reliable charging solutions.
The collaboration between Motor Source Group and Aurora EV marks a significant stride toward a sustainable and electrified future. By combining Motor Source Group’s salary sacrifice car programme with Aurora EV’s expertise in EV charge point installation, the partnership aims to create a holistic offering that empowers businesses to transition to electric mobility seamlessly and effectively.
“We are thrilled to announce our partnership with Aurora EV,” said Steve Thornton, founder & CEO at Motor Source Group. “This collaboration aligns perfectly with our commitment to providing businesses with comprehensive solutions that are convenient and easy to implement. With Aurora EV’s unmatched experience in EV charging installations, we can offer our clients a seamless transition to electric vehicles, fostering environmental responsibility and sustainability.”
Ben Morris, Managing Director at Aurora EV, said: “Our partnership with Motor Source Group is a natural fit, as both our organizations share a passion for innovation and sustainable solutions. By combining our expertise with Motor Source Group’s forward-thinking approach, we can provide businesses with a complete package that supports their transition to electric mobility.”
The collaboration between Motor Source Group and Aurora EV is expected to drive significant positive change in the corporate sector’s approach to sustainable transportation solutions. This partnership underscores both companies’ commitment to a greener future and marks the beginning of a journey toward impactful change in the automotive landscape.
Publisher expands in Sheffield
As part of its ongoing commitment to accelerate the diversification of its workforce and publishing, Hachette UK is expanding their national office in Sheffield. The 23-strong team have moved to a workspace previously used by Twinkl, a leading education business founded in Sheffield.
Hachette UK now has 120 staff based across the cities of Manchester, Bristol, Edinburgh, Newcastle and Sheffield. Of the 120 staff over 40% have been recruited locally and in Sheffield that number rises to over 50%.
The Sheffield team includes colleagues from 8 different publishing divisions and a similar number of job functions, with particular strengths in editorial, marketing, sales, rights and IT.
This move to a standalone space with two suites, meeting rooms with high-spec technology, a bespoke audio studio, and break-out and quiet spaces will enable Hachette UK to hire creative talent beyond London and better reach consumers.
Nick Davies, MD of John Murray Press and national office lead at Hachette UK, said: “We are committed to growing our creative hubs across the UK. In just over two years, the national offices have more than doubled in size. The growth in Sheffield – from five staff to twenty-three – has been particularly exciting to see. And this impressive new space gives us the potential to grow that office to 75 colleagues or more.
“We have already begun reaping the rewards of having a workforce that better reflects the UK’s population. Of course, better is not enough and we have ambitious plans to deepen our vital connections with readers, writers and booksellers in communities beyond London. The move to bigger premises in Sheffield plays a significant part in that.”
David Shelley, CEO of Hachette UK, said: “I’m so proud of our national offices, and excited about the major expansion in Sheffield. Since 2021 the national offices have provided a gateway into creative talent – authors, illustrators, translators, publishing professionals – around the UK.
“We’re 100% committed to the growth and development of these hubs over the coming years, and we really look forward to continuing and developing our work with bookshops, libraries, arts organisations, and charities in all five cities.
“Opening offices around the country has been a crucial and transformative venture for us in our mission to publish for as wide a readership as possible, and we’re ambitious to increase our footprint outside London further in the years to come.”
Manufacturing output falls at fastest pace since September 2020
Manufacturers reported the sharpest fall in output volumes since September 2020, according to the CBI’s latest Industrial Trends Survey.
Motor vehicles & transport equipment, mechanical engineering, paper, printing & media, and chemicals sub-sectors drove the decline in output over the three months to August. Looking ahead, output volumes are expected to stabilise in the next three months.
Firms anticipate that price pressures will continue to ease going forward, with expectations for selling price inflation over the next three months at their softest since February 2021.
The survey, based on the responses of 277 manufacturing firms, found:
- Output volumes fell in the three months to August (weighted balance of -19%, from +3% in the three months to July), marking the sharpest decline since September 2020. Output is expected to be broadly stable in the three months to November (-3%).
- Output fell in 15 out of 17 sub-sectors in the three months to August, driven by the motor vehicles & transport equipment, mechanical engineering, paper, printing & media, and chemicals sub-sectors.
- Total order books were reported as below “normal” in August and to a greater extent than in July (-15% from -9%). However, this outturn was broadly in line with the long-run average (-13%). Export order books were seen as below “normal,” having deteriorated from last month (-18% from -11%). This was also on a par with the long-run average (-18%).
- Expectations for average selling price inflation were at their softest since February 2021 (+8%, from +18% in July; long-run average of +7%). Expectations for selling price inflation have eased for eight consecutive months, having fallen sharply from the multi-decade high seen in 2022 (+80% in March 2022).
- Stocks of finished goods were seen as more than “adequate” in August (+7% from 0% in July; long-run average of +12%).
Martin Sartorius, CBI principal economist, said: “With output volumes contracting at their fastest pace since the COVID-19 pandemic and order books deteriorating, this survey makes for gloomy reading for manufacturers. However, easing price pressures will bring some relief to many manufacturing firms and the broader economy.
“The weak outlook for manufacturing activity underlines the need to double-down on delivering sustainable growth. With fierce levels of international competition, the race is on for the UK Government to offer targeted incentives to attract green investment and support firms’ decarbonisation efforts.”
Pace appoints new head of social
Creative communications agency Pace is strengthening its leadership team with the appointment of a new head of social media.
Conor Glavin is the latest new team member to join the Hull-based company.
Conor previously worked at global social media agency Social Chain where his clients included audio brand Beats by Dre, video game company Logitech G and Jameson Irish Whiskey.
He said: “I’m excited to be part of the team. Pace has a great reputation and I’m looking forward to building on Pace’s social strengths and developing further creative opportunities to share clients’ stories.”
He also has extensive communications and social media experience – both in-house and agency-based – from previous roles.
Anita Pace, MD, said: “It’s great to welcome Conor to Pace as we continue to go from strength to strength. His insight and experience of social media, together with his genuine enthusiasm for amplifying clients’ stories, will be invaluable for our clients and the Pace team as a whole.”
Conor’s appointment follows further growth of Pace’s senior team with the arrival of Calvin Innes as creative director earlier this year and the merger with fellow Hull-based agency Blab in September.
Pace’s clients include sustainable cleaning brand Bio-D, Yorkshire housing developer Beal Homes, luxury holiday home manufacturer Victory Leisure Homes, international waste plastic road company MacRebur, global health, hygiene and nutrition manufacturer Reckitt and global skincare brand 7th Heaven.
Transformation of historic Halifax Borough Market moves a step closer
The transformation of the historic Halifax Borough Market has moved a step closer, after the multi-million-pound revitalisation project reached significant milestones.
Calderdale Council is investing nearly £4.5 million into a thriving future for the market hall as a focal point for shopping, business and leisure in Halifax, after it successfully secured £11.7 million from the Government’s Future High Streets Fund for improvements across the town centre.
Work on the Grade II* listed Borough Market, which opened in 1896, will include:
- Restoration of the historic façade and repairs to the roof, which is an important heritage feature.
- Improved entrances and routes inside the market to make it easier to explore and to help people enjoy the market’s many features and stalls, and to better link the top and bottom ends of the town centre.
- Improved areas for events outside of market trading hours, including pop-up units and refurbished toilet facilities.
Leeds catering group gobbles up Nottingham firm
Nottingham-based Walker Catering has been acquired by Leeds-headquartered catering group, Northern Catering Equipment Group.
Walker Catering was established in 1990, offering catering supply services to customers in Nottingham, the East Midlands and across the UK.
Hilton Smythe advised Walker Catering on their successful sale. Prior to acquisition, it had 250 active clients, a 90% repeat business record, and approximately £240k cash in the business.
In addition to Walker Catering, NCE Group operates three other businesses in Leeds and Swansea and has been shortlisted for several industry awards.
Mo Romanowicz, Managing Director of NCE Group, said: “We’re delighted to have invested in Walker Catering. It has not only brought additional revenue, but also experienced and capable staff who will help us go from strength to strength.
“The team at Hilton Smythe has been invaluable in terms of providing a clear action plan and supporting us every step of the way with clear communication. We’re already discussing further opportunities for growth through acquisition for our next stage of development.”
Jacob Lord, senior deal executive at Hilton Smythe, said: “NCE Group has a clear growth strategy through acquisition, and the addition of Walker Catering to its portfolio supports its long-term aims and objectives.
“From our first meeting to completion, Hilton Smythe has been working hand in glove with NCE Group to ensure that Mo and the team were kept up to date with any developments and that the deal ran smoothly.”
Whitby distiller paves way to prime Abbey location
The dream of a Yorkshire gin-maker to move into brand-new premises in the shadow of Whitby Abbey is now becoming a reality.
Work is beginning this autumn on Whitby Distillery’s £1.8 million project to renovate two derelict barns on Abbey Lands on the south-west corner of the Abbey grounds.
The build programme, which has been partly funded by the Whitby Distillers Founders Club, is scheduled to be completed by the end of next year. It will feature a unique pathway, engraved with the names of friends and supporters of the distillery.
Whitby Distillery, makers of Whitby Gin, was founded in 2017 by Jessica Slater and Luke Pentith who have grown their business from a passion project to one whose gin stocked in more than 500 outlets across the UK.
The move will enable the distillery to become one of the most iconic distillery visitor experiences in England, providing high-quality leisure and function space for the local community to enjoy.
Luke Pentith said: “This move is a gamechanger for us. Whilst we have been very happy in our current premises in Botany Way in Whitby, our new home will take Whitby Distillery to the next level, stepping up production and giving visitors the opportunity to see us distilling and bottling through the week with our tour experiences.
“It is an honour and a privilege to be restoring these derelict buildings on such a world-famous site. For us, this is all about launching an amazing adventure on the atmospheric North Sea coastline, with tremendous knock-on effects for the local economy.”
Jessica said: “Our new distillery is a serious commitment to Whitby. We are making a significant investment into the local community and the future of the town. In the longer term, we anticipate up to 25 employees.
“As well as the distillery, our plans include a visitor centre, which will showcase our production process and our various spirits, as well as paying homage to the amazing cultural heritage of Whitby and providing an educational and corporate business space.
“Whitby Distillery aims to offer an educational and enchanting visitor experience which can be accessed all year round, as an out-of-season and wet weather destination. The visitor experience venue and exhibition/hire space build on the strong links Whitby distillery has with the adjacent English Heritage attraction.”
“The site has these incredible views of the Abbey, the town, the moors and the sea and no-one gets to see it as the area is closed off at the moment. We want to use the area for people to be able to take tours and also host small events up there,” she added.
Luke added: “The renovation work is partly be funded by Whitby Distillery’s Founders Club, which gives members to chance to become part of the Whitby Distillery success story.
“We have chosen to work with Native Architects who are the experts when it comes to sustainable redevelopment of heritage buildings. They value the qualities of traditionally crafted buildings but adapt and convert in a way that sets the reduction of CO2 emissions as a priority.
“Whitby Distillery is designed to be an inspirational building that has minimal environmental impact. We are taking a ‘fabric first’ approach to refurbishment to improve the energy efficiency. Wastewater from the distilling process will be used where possible to irrigate plants and the vegetated roof.
“The heat extracted from this water will be used to warm the building. Green roofs will be planted with wildflowers to nurture the natural plants and wildlife. Hidden roof solar PV panels will generate electricity on site. Building materials can have high carbon footprints so materials have been selected that have low levels of embodied carbon.”
