Yorkshire logistics company expands operations in the Southeast with acquisition

Tess Egginton
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Yorkshire logistics company expands operations in the Southeast with acquisition

Yorkshire-based logistics company Expect Distribution has acquired Pallet Plus, an established transport company based in the Essex area. It comes as Expect seeks to enhance its national presence.

Expect Distribution purchased the £10m turnover business, based in Colchester, to strengthen the group’s offering, expanding operations in the Southeast and solidifying its capabilities as a UK-wide logistics and warehousing company.

Established since 2005, Pallet Plus is a family-run business providing national final mile distribution of palletised freight to and from the Essex region. Primarily a pallet network operator and a member of TPN, UPN and Palletways, Pallet Plus has a strong customer base in their immediate area which provides Expect with the opportunity to grow volume over the medium term and exploit existing synergies with current volume.

The acquisition of Pallet Plus will see Expect Distribution’s turnover exceed £60m.

Managing Director, Matthew Kilner said: “The fantastic reputation, dedication of the senior management team and drivers, operational capabilities and longstanding membership with three national pallet networks [The Pallet Network, UPN & Palletways], were more than enough for us to consider this acquisition. But beyond this, the cultural fit of the business was key. Pallet Plus are clearly a company punching above its weight and we are certain the two businesses will integrate seamlessly.”

Operations director and co-owner Andy Taylor added: “With the purchase of Pallet Plus, we can not only significantly increase our presence in Southeast with an owned operation but also bolster the proposition, by expanding the transport side of the business and introducing, in the medium term, a new warehousing offering which has been an important growth area for us in Bradford over recent years. I’d personally like to thank the team at Pallet Plus, and we look forward to working with them, to take both businesses forward.”

Gary Rowe, Managing Director at Pallet Plus, said: “The acquisition by Expect Distribution is a significant milestone and marks an exciting new chapter for both companies. Together, we will combine our collective resources, cutting-edge technology, and industry knowledge to provide even greater value to our clients. As we embark on this journey, I want to express my gratitude to our loyal customers, dedicated employees, and valued partners.”

Hepworth’s Arcade project progresses thanks to grant

Tess Egginton
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Hepworth’s Arcade project progresses thanks to grant
Detailed surveying as part of Hepworth’s Arcade repair and renovation project will soon take place thanks to Hull City Council being awarded a Project Development Grant worth £96,000 from Historic England. The surveys will help the council to understand the most suitable repair methods to preserve the heritage of the Grade II listed arcade. The grant will allow greater focus on areas that need specialist repair works such as the stonework. The funding will also cover developing designs for the wider repair and renovation of Hepworth’s Arcade and will ultimately lead to a planning application and tendering the construction works. Current and prospective tenants of the arcade will be consulted on plans as design works get underway in the coming months. The scheme aims to repair and reinvigorate all the units to achieve full occupancy, as well as bringing unused upper floor space back into use. Cllr Paul Drake-Davis, portfolio holder for regeneration at Hull City Council, said: “The council welcomes this investment from Historic England. “Hepworth’s Arcade is a much-loved retail destination in Hull’s Old Town and this support from Historic England will help the council to ensure its regeneration project is a success.” Craig Broadwith, Historic Places Advisor at Historic England, added: “This beautiful Victorian arcade has been a favourite shopping destination for the residents of Hull for more than a century. “This grant from Historic England will fund the first step towards repairing and reinvigorating this stunning building for generations of shoppers to come.”

Watkin Jones sells portfolio of PRS assets

Tess Egginton
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Watkin Jones sells portfolio of PRS assets
Watkin Jones, the developer and manager of residential for rent, has sold a portfolio of three freehold PRS assets to L1 Property, the real estate funds management arm of L1 Capital. The portfolio comprises over 117,000 sq ft with a total of 174 units, featuring respectively 78 units at Gateway and 43 at Impact, both located in Sheffield and 53 at The Wharf, in Droylsden, Greater Manchester. This is Watkin Jones first transaction with L1 Property and marks the exit on assets which were constructed by Watkin Jones between 2006-8 and have been operated by the group since. George Dyer, group investment director at Watkin Jones, said: “We are pleased to undertake our first transaction with L1 Property. The sale of these assets represents the culmination of our business plan and will enable us to recycle the proceeds into further land opportunities as we look to grow our pipeline in the coming months.” David Lamm, Chief Executive Officer of L1 Property, said: “We are enthusiastic about this transaction with Watkin Jones to acquire three landmark buildings in Sheffield and Greater Manchester, two cities we recognise for their dynamic economies and promising long-term prospects.” Thomas Collins, Chief Operating Officer of L1 Property, said: “This transaction aligns perfectly with our vision to enhance the living experience, add significant value through asset management, and continue to develop our fully integrated property management platform.” Watkin Jones was advised in the transaction by Savills and Mishcon de Reya.

Contractor selected for Lincolnshire children’s home

Tess Egginton
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Contractor selected for Lincolnshire children’s home
Contractor Willmott Dixon has been selected to complete the design proposals for a new secure children’s home to be built on the edge of Sleaford, Lincolnshire. Plans for the 28-bed secure facility, which will be located in Bonemill Lane on the outskirts of the town, were approved by members of Lincolnshire County Council’s planning and regulation committee on 31 July. The scheme, which is being funded by the Department for Education, will provide care for some of Lincolnshire’s most vulnerable children as well as being a national resource for secure accommodation. Nick Heath, director at Willmott Dixon, said: “This is a hugely significant scheme, not only for Lincolnshire to address an acute need for secure accommodation, but also for the wider country as it will bring together best practice from across the UK and Europe. “The new building has been designed to support the young people to get their lives ‘back on track’ using a whole host of facilities including on-site education, wellbeing, vocational and sports facilities, as well as delivering against important sustainability credentials to make the building’s legacy especially evident.” The new accommodation will aim to achieve as close to a net-zero in operation solution as possible, with a design that is majority off-grid supported by solar panels and state-of-the-art power storage. The development will also feature a new service road, a car park, a surface water attenuation pond, and landscaped areas. Cllr Mrs Patricia Bradwell OBE, executive member for children’s services at Lincolnshire County Council, said: “The new secure home will provide a much-improved environment for the young people living and educated there and help to meet the increased national demand for spaces. It will make sure these children are offered the required support, training and guidance in modern facilities.” The scheme has been procured via Pagabo’s Major Works framework. Willmott Dixon has been appointed as contractor and Kier is the architect for the project.

New approach agreed for The Seam – Barnsley’s Digital Campus

Tess Egginton
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New approach agreed for The Seam – Barnsley’s Digital Campus
A new plan for The Seam digital campus is being drawn up to better suit the funding available and meet the changing needs of town centres. Initial plans presented to Barnsley Metropolitan Borough Council’s cabinet in 2022 for the digital campus were for an urban village with a new multistorey car park and a major residential development, right at the heart of the town centre. This new neighbourhood for the town centre would bring forward new space for digital, tech and creative industries businesses. However due to mounting costs, in part driven by the Covid-19 pandemic and the war in Ukraine, cabinet have approved a new approach. This will remove plans for a multistorey car park, and also the residential development. Instead, the lower Seam car park will be extensively refurbished to create a more welcoming space for visitors, commuters, and businesses alike. Plans will include public realm improvements to the high-quality standard seen at the nearby Glass Works, with enhanced lighting, CCTV, street furniture, and significant capacity for electric vehicle charging supported by solar power. The council are also planning to create a new high-quality urban green space which will further improve the welcome the town centre provides to workers, families and other visitors. The council will also be looking to improve cycle storage facilities to encourage more people to use active travel routes to and from the town centre. The council will carry out further consultation with residents and businesses as they progress these plans for this first phase of development work, focusing on the Lower Seam site. In the meantime, the council will continue to seek funding opportunities for a second phase to further enhance the Upper Seam site as a destination for digital businesses. This revised scheme will support the council’s ambitions for a Growing Barnsley with a reputation for being a great place to invest, and a Sustainable Barnsley with reduced carbon emissions and increased access to sustainable energy sources. Cllr Robert Frost, Cabinet Spokesperson for Regeneration and Culture, said: “We see The Seam as the heart of Barnsley’s future economy. All economic growth will be powered by the use of digital and new technologies. “This will help place Barnsley at the forefront of the digital productivity revolution and create opportunities for our residents to learn new essential digital skills for life and for work. These updated proposals will allow us to get moving on improvements we want to see as soon as possible. “If we stand still, the borough’s economy will stand still. That’s why we’ve revisited our plans for the Seam and moving ahead with this first phase, while we continue to look at funding opportunities and partnerships for a second phase. “Our digital campus in the town centre is a key part of our recently announced South Yorkshire Investment Zone. This will bolster the already attractive offer for innovative businesses looking to invest in Barnsley alongside our existing digital and tech companies and strengthen the growing reputation for Barnsley as a destination for digital businesses.” Leader of Barnsley Council, Cllr Sir Steve Houghton, added: “We’ve taken a sensible look at our plans for The Seam given the huge rise in costs for major schemes. This has given us another chance to reflect on what we want to see in this part of the town centre, and come up with what I think is going to be a better scheme for businesses and local people. “We’re going to focus our efforts on a really high-quality scheme of improvements on the lower part of the site, which will support the attractiveness of the site to businesses. “We’ll continue to look for opportunities to fund further enhancements to the wider Seam Campus as we continue to grow our digital business community and commercial opportunities as part of the new South Yorkshire Investment Zone. This will bring even more skills and well-paid jobs to our borough.”

Hull firm on track to complete first phase of £3m sewage and flood defence system

Stuart Pearcey
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Hull firm on track to complete first phase of £3m sewage and flood defence system
Hull-based PBS Construction expects to complete the first part of a £3m project to install a brand-new sewage and flood defence system in Crowle near Scunthorpe. Phase One of the works on Godnow Road in the town are  set to be completed by early September. It’s part of new sewage works and flood-defence system on behalf of Severn Trent and the Internal Drainage Board, with North Lincolnshire Council is relaying the road surface. Cllr Julie Reed, cabinet member for children, families and communities said: “It is fantastic to see further investment in the Isle of Axholme. This is a vital piece of work to better protect the local community for years to come. The £3 million pound investment – from the council and partners – is just one part of our commitment to continue to develop our roads and highways infrastructure across the whole county.” Cllr Neil Poole, cabinet member for highways operations, said: “Phase one has already seen the need for alternative construction methods to be explored and implemented and there are seven more intensive phases to be undertaken before the project reaches completion. “Managing and maintaining our road network is a never-ending task but is something we are committed to deliver across the county.” The new flooding defence system being installed will further compliment the £35m revamp of Keadby Pumping Station that now uses electrical pumps to manage the water levels across the region, making it easier to protect thousands of homes within the Isle of Axholme. In addition to the new sewage and flood defence system, the full stetch of road will be resurfaced and will include a brand-new junction from Godnow Road leading onto the main high street. The extensive construction works are expected to be finished next April.

Government cash backs new scheme to create more Ofsted child minders in North Lincolnshire

Stuart Pearcey
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Government cash backs new scheme to create more Ofsted child minders in North Lincolnshire
A new scheme to drive up the number of Ofsted registered childminders within North Lincolnshire is backed by Government cash for start up grants. People that become an Ofsted registered childminder can now receive a £600 start up grant and is part of the investment and commitment made by the Government to the childcare provision in this year’s Spring Budget. Cllr Rob Waltham, leader of North Lincolnshire Council said: “Earlier this year the Government announced an incredible package of changes and investment to be made to the provision of childcare over the next couple of years. “This grant is one of the many elements that are set to be delivered and is a great incentive for people who are thinking about a career in the childcare sector and will provide essential financial support on their journey in starting their own business.” North Lincolnshire Council are hosting several Childminder Briefing Sessions for people to find out more about the role and the process involved in becoming Ofsted registered. Cllr Julie Reed, cabinet member for children, families and communities said: “This new scheme will be vital in the recruitment of new childminders. “Childminders come from a wide range of backgrounds and welcome families into their home to provide high quality, nurturing childcare with many choosing to join the profession to start a new career which enables them to combine running a professional business with caring for their own children. “They are qualified, experienced professionals with expertise in child development and full paediatric first aid training. They are regulated and inspected by Ofsted and required to deliver the national Early Years Foundation Stage framework (EYFS) for babies and children aged from birth to five. “I would urge anyone who is thinking about becoming a childminder to attend one of the briefing sessions to find out more about the process involved. “They are short informative sessions, giving people an insight into the highly rewarding and unique role, as well as advice and guidance for setting up your own business and the financial support currently available.” There is a variety of blended learning options available to people who want to become an Ofsted registered childminder as well as 1 to 1 guidance and advice. For further information, to secure your place on one of the Childminder Briefing Sessions, or the Childminder Training Programme, email earlyyearsteam@northlincs.gov.uk or call 01724 297000.

Chamber highlights need for skills support in South Yorkshire

Stuart Pearcey
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Chamber highlights need for skills support in South Yorkshire
With A level results almost due, Doncaster Chamber of Commerce has highlighted the need for greater skills support in South Yorkshire, at a time Chamber Chief Exec Dan Fell describes as challenging for those entering the world of work. He said: “Many of these young people will undoubtedly have bright futures ahead of them — new evidence suggests that it might be quite challenging for them to enter the modern workplace, when that time eventually comes. “Our recently-published South Yorkshire Local Skills Improvement Plan has exposed a number of areas where our region is under-supplied in terms of talent. Specifically, the document highlights how demand for digital skills (like data processing, social media and web content management) is at an all-time high, and is only set to grow further, employers are actually struggling to recruit people with this relevant expertise. In December 2022, for example, the second highest proportion of vacancies in South Yorkshire was for specialist IT professionals.” Drawing upon extensive research and diagnostic interviews with thousands of businesses, the LSIP found that digital skills are becoming near-universal requirements, essential for roughly two-thirds of all occupations. Despite this, many young people are still leaving education without the technical know-how that businesses need. This has created a huge skills gap in South Yorkshire, as 50% of employers consulted for the LSIP said that they cannot find individuals with a good handle on data processing, and one third of skills shortage vacancies in the region are directly caused by a lack of digital skills. What’s more, businesses maintained that the young people they do employ are often not ready for the digital aspects of their job. Although this might seem like a rather bleak outlook, the LSIP does offer a solution to this problem, by breaking down how the existing skills system can be improved to better meet the needs of employers. Covering everything from how businesses can engage more closely with education & training providers, right through to the need for alternative pathways and accessing hidden talent, the document makes 36 practical recommendations for closing the skills gap here in South Yorkshire. Mr Fell added: “As an organisation that represents businesses, we have always understood the importance of cultivating future talent and encouraging the next generation to be ambitious and work ready. “However, it is sad to say that the odds are currently stacked against them. As our LSIP research lays bare, many young people nowadays are leaving education without the skills that local employers are actually looking for. Particularly when it comes to things like digital marketing, web content management and data science. “Indeed, computing and IT subjects now account for less than 2% of A-Level entries in our region and 5% of higher education enrolments. Meanwhile, GCSE Computer Science is not even offered in two-fifths of secondary schools, with teacher shortages being cited as a key issue here. Suffice it to say, the situation is concerning and we run the risk of South Yorkshire getting left behind if we don’t treat it as a priority. “Fortunately, the LSIP — which has recently been signed off by the Secretary of State for Education — offers a way forward, with 36 practical recommendations for turning things around. Some of the solutions will take longer to implement than others, and we obviously don’t expect seismic change to occur overnight, but we are confident that if the relevant stakeholders heed what it says, then we can get on top of this pressing issue. “There are recommendations here for how education providers should respond to the skills gap that has been articulated by employers, for key policy reforms and programmatic changes that will also help and, of course, for things that organisations like the Chamber can take responsibility for. There is certainly a lot to be getting on with, but we cannot afford to squander this opportunity.”

Science unlocks secrets for small firms in ‘highly successful’ four-year project

Stuart Pearcey
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Science unlocks secrets for small firms in ‘highly successful’ four-year project

A four-year project designed to give SMEs access to some of the world’s most advanced scientific analysis has been declared a major success by academics at the University of Bradford.

Project CAYMAN – Chemistry Assets for Yorkshire Manufacturing – began as a three-year initiative funded by £1.6m from European Regional Development Fund, with half that cost matched by the University of Bradford. It was extended a further nine months based on its phenomenal success. In the last four years, it has helped 65 SMEs gain access to highly technical scientific analysis of materials that would otherwise be unavailable to them. The team from the University uses a nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy to examine the molecular structure of different materials. Many of those SMEs are using the analysis to develop new products, which in turn has the potential to create jobs in the region. Dr Richard Telford, Associate Professor in the Faculty of Life Sciences, who is Director of the Centre for Chemical and Biological Analysis, said: “Project CAYMAN has provided an excellent means for the University of Bradford to engage with regional SMEs and given us the opportunity to showcase not only our facilities and expertise, but convey how high-level analytical science can be of benefit to developing industrial processes. “Project CAYMAN successfully met all its ERDF output targets, which, considering a large part of this project was conducted under COVID restrictions, was a major achievement. The success has demonstrated the University’s capability to deliver regeneration projects and will provide a great platform to do so again.” Project CAYMAN was designed by academics at the UoB’s Centre for Chemical and Biological Analysis to give Leeds City Region SMEs access to analytical chemistry expertise and facilities, focusing on a technique known as Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (NMR) spectroscopy – an analytical chemistry technique used in quality control and research for determining the content and purity of a sample as well as its molecular structure.

Small firms win record amount of Government work reveals Cabinet Office

Stuart Pearcey
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Small firms win record amount of Government work reveals Cabinet Office
Small businesses won a record-breaking amount of government work, new figures released by the Cabinet Office have revealed. The new figures show UK small businesses received £21 billion worth of work in 2021/22, equivalent to around £3.8k per British small business. Government work won by small businesses range across all sectors, including public infrastructure – supporting building schools and hospitals, defence – developing high end technology to keep the country safe and healthcare – helping keep the country healthy through clinical, medical and digital health services, as well as many more. The figure is an increase of £1.7bn on the previous year, and the highest since records began, representing the fifth consecutive year that government work won by small businesses has increased. Minister for the Cabinet Office Jeremy Quin said: “These record-breaking figures demonstrate our commitment to ensure more small businesses benefit from public sector spending, by reducing barriers to entry and encouraging a more diverse market.

“One in three pounds of public money is spent on public procurement, which is why through the Procurement Bill we are improving the way it is regulated to save the taxpayer money and drive benefits across every region of the country.”

Under new rules all departments and public bodies are required to consider SMEs when designing their procurements, meaning that more SMEs will get to compete for and win government contracts through simpler and more flexible regulations. The new rules also include:
  • Greater visibility of upcoming work, giving SMEs more time to gear up for bidding
  • A new central platform showing future work in each area. This means for example a new SME tech firm in Lancashire will be able to search for tech opportunities upcoming in their region
  • Creating one single website to register on, rather than the multiple and time consuming systems SMEs currently have to register on before bidding for work
  • Reducing unnecessary insurance costs before a supplier has even bid for a contract
  • A new Competitive Flexible procedure, which will allow contracting authorities to design more innovation into the process.
  • Strengthening prompt payment, so that businesses throughout the public sector supply chain receive payment within 30 days

Farming gets new trade body to showcase agriculture as a dynamic industry

Stuart Pearcey
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Farming gets new trade body to showcase agriculture as a dynamic industry
A new professional body is being established to position agriculture and horticulture as a dynamic industry, attracting and retaining talent from a wide range of backgrounds, investing in people in order to improve productivity, staff engagement and retention.It’s called The Institute for Agriculture and Horticulture , and is being developed by a project group including the NFU, AHDB, farmers, employers, industry leaders and further and higher education specialists. The body will act as an umbrella, co-ordinating existing skills and training provision across England, bringing everything in to one, accessible place.
A large part of what TIAH will provide will be an online space where users have access to individual profiles, logging both formal and informal training and qualifications. TIAH will make it easy for both employers and employees to look for suitable training options in order to develop skills, careers and businesses. It will provide access to information on the roles available in farming, progression options and skills required, to those new to the farming industries, or exploring its potential. TIAH will act as a co-ordinating force, ensuring that up to date knowledge of policy and regulations, as well as new and innovative farming and growing practises are disseminated throughout the industry. TIAH will also provide access to HR and personnel development support to small and medium sized businesses across the industry, as well as collate reliable data on the labour market, workforce requirements and skills shortages. The NFU has been involved with the development of TIAH since the beginning, with Policy Board recently agreeing continued support. The NFU is represented on the TIAH board by NFU Deputy President Tom Bradshaw in his capacity as the NFU’s officeholder for skills and NFU member Owen Piper.

University of Sheffield to be biggest green hydrogen producer and drive sustainable aviation fuels development

Tess Egginton
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University of Sheffield to be biggest green hydrogen producer and drive sustainable aviation fuels development
The University of Sheffield is set to produce more green hydrogen than any other UK research centre, thanks to new equipment that will support vital research to help decarbonise the aviation industry. Sheffield’s Energy Institute is installing a new hydrogen electrolyser – technology that produces hydrogen by splitting water into hydrogen and oxygen. The equipment will be used in research to develop and test new hydrogen-based sustainable aviation fuels (SAFs). The electrolyser, from IMI Remosa under the new brand IMI VIVO, is being installed in the University’s Sustainable Aviation Fuels Innovation Centre (SAF-IC) – the UK’s first R&D facility that is able to develop, test, validate and help certify new fuels all in one location. The facility, along with the new electrolyser, gives the UK much-needed R&D capabilities in SAFs and can play a major role in helping reduce the environmental impact of air travel. SAFs are seen as a vital step in reducing global carbon emissions. The aviation industry is responsible for around seven per cent of total carbon emissions in the UK alone and this number is growing fast. However, aviation’s reliance on fossil fuels makes it a challenging sector to decarbonise and new fuels are subject to strict standards and regulations before they can be approved for use. Researchers from Sheffield will work with partners in the aviation industry to develop new hydrogen and CO2-based fuels that meet these strict standards. They will also work with other industries across the UK to help them switch fuels and decarbonise. With the new electrolyser, the University is capable of producing nearly 140Nm3 per hour of green hydrogen with storage capacity of 1450Nm3 – equivalent to the electricity required to power 200 homes. Professor Mohamed Pourkashanian, director of the University of Sheffield’s Energy Institute, said: “In order to drive forward a decarbonised future, we must understand more about the possibilities and capabilities of green hydrogen, particularly with regards to sustainable aviation fuels. “With this new electrolyser at our SAF-IC facility, we can work with industry and fellow academics to discover and demonstrate the best way to make a hydrogen economy, and a greener future, a reality. “We are thrilled to have the capacity to produce the green hydrogen in our site, so that our research and development into SAFs (especially via Power-To-SAF), industrial fuel switching and decarbonisation can continue. “We’re also pleased to work with IMI VIVO on this project, and we are now having discussions with the team that could lead to future international collaborations and projects.” The SAF-IC facility is based in the University of Sheffield Innovation District – land on the outskirts of Sheffield that is home to some of the University’s world-leading translational research centres that are driving economic growth, investment and creating jobs in the South Yorkshire region. The University’s Advanced Manufacturing Research Centre (AMRC) – a hugely successful academic and industry R&D facility – recently announced one of the North of England’s biggest ever research projects as part of the UK government’s first investment zone in South Yorkshire. The project will develop new ways to manufacture lightweight aircraft components, another step in reducing the environmental impact of aviation. The University is also part of a consortium led by Virgin Atlantic that is set to lead the world’s first 100 per cent SAF transatlantic flight, which is scheduled to fly later this year (28 November 2023). Through the University of Sheffield’s research facilities, South Yorkshire is fast becoming the UK’s leading hub for sustainable aviation R&D. The equipment that has been installed at the University is a PEM-based green hydrogen electrolyser from IMI Remosa under the new brand IMI VIVO. Giuseppe Buscemi, president, IMI Critical Engineering Europe, said: “The aviation industry is responsible for around seven per cent of the UK’s total carbon emissions and this figure continues to rise. Developing new fuels and solutions will therefore be essential to reversing this trend and decarbonising the sector. “We are proud that the IMI VIVO electrolyser will prove vital to upgrading the University of Sheffield’s research and development capabilities, helping break the aviation industry’s reliance on fossil fuels. “We expect this technology, both here and in other applications, to play a pivotal role in reducing emissions across multiple sectors as part of our commitment to providing breakthrough engineering for a better world.”

Drax Community Fund donation saves Village Hall from closure

Stuart Pearcey
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Drax Community Fund donation saves Village Hall from closure

Renewable energy company Drax Group has provided new funding for 25 community projects – and has saved at least one form closure.

That’s the Village Hall in North Yorkshire’s Henshall, where Drax cash has made possible a new boiler. Said Hall Treasurer David Hardaker: “The new boiler has been installed thanks to the generosity of the Drax Community Fund plus local support via a concert which raised £490.

“Without Drax’s support the outcome would have been so different. We are now looking forward to a warm space in the winter that will ensure that all our groups continue and hopefully expand. Until Drax intervened so generously we were looking at closure, without a doubt.” The £35,200 from the company’s Community Fund, donated between April and June this year, has gone to projects that provide STEM education and skills development, enhance green spaces or improve communities. Jane Breach, Drax UK Community Manager, said: “As part of Drax’s commitment to being a good neighbour in the communities where we operate, we are delighted to announce this quarter’s donations for 25 community-based organisations including Lindsey Lodge Hospice and Brayton Youth Connect. “These groups make a tangible difference to people’s lives and help us make a positive impact on people, nature and the climate in our communities.” In the previous quarter, Drax donated to groups including PlayStillingfleet, who look after the Stillingfleet playground, for new play equipment, and Hensall Village Hall, to help fund a new boiler. Both sites are in the vicinity of North Yorkshire’s Drax Power Station. Ross Powell, Chair at PlayStillingfleet Community Group, said: “The funding has allowed us to successfully deliver the final phase of our playground project. The playground has quickly become a focal point for children and parents to come together and build the next generation of friendships in the village.” Drax’s Community Fund provides donations of £500-£2,000 for community-led projects. In addition to the Drax Community Fund, Drax also provides larger grants of up to £50,000 through the Drax Foundation.

Normanton tool firm secures six figure funding boost

Tess Egginton
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Normanton tool firm secures six figure funding boost
CMS Tools is geared for growth after receiving a six figure investment to strengthen the firm’s position in the Yorkshire market and beyond. The funding received is from NPIF-FW Capital Debt Finance which is managed by FW Capital and part of the Northern Powerhouse Investment Fund. It is supporting plans to invest in infrastructure, create new jobs and the bulk buy of products to improve CMS Tools’ margins and increase profitability. Headquartered in Normanton, West Yorkshire, CMS Tools was established in 1981 and has a turnover of £3m. The firm is a distributor of high quality, specialist roofing tools and accessories to customers across the UK working in the building trade and construction sector. It has a nationwide network of stockists, with a range that includes sustainable wood-based products delivered from re-planted and sustainable sources. Simon French, Managing Director at CMS Tools, said: “The investment from FW Capital is enabling us to access working capital and bring new product categories into our portfolio. We’re also investing in infrastructure and increasing our workforce so we can continue to provide high levels of service our customers have come to expect. The process has been well managed by FW Capital, with funds available within the expected time.” The investment was provided by Nick Donaghy, assistant investment executive and Alex Gent, senior investment executive at FW Capital. Ben Merrick, commercial relationship manager at YB Financial Advisory Ltd introduced Simon French from CMS Tools to the FW Capital team. Nick Donaghy, FW Capital, assistant investment executive, said: “CMS Tools is a longstanding and profitable business led by an experienced management team. It has a wide spectrum of established customers and a healthy pipeline going forward which includes a number of new potential clients. “The business has a multi-faceted growth strategy and we’re pleased to support this next stage of their development. FW Capital is committed to investing in local businesses via debt finance, supporting future growth across the region.” Ben Merrick, commercial relationship manager at YB Financial Advisory Ltd, added: “For the past several years, we have collaborated closely with CMS Tools, and we are delighted to remain their primary point of contact for securing the necessary additional funding to fuel the ongoing expansion of their business. “In the current climate of uncertainty, where businesses may encounter difficulties in obtaining prompt responses from their banks, I have full faith in my partnership with Nick and Alex from FW Capital. Our joint efforts will ensure that we can offer steadfast support to local businesses in meeting their diverse funding needs.”

Cottingham day nursery sold to expanding group

Tess Egginton
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Cottingham day nursery sold to expanding group
Specialist business property adviser, Christie & Co, has sold Wishing Well Day Care in Cottingham, Yorkshire. Established in 2002 by the exiting owner, Victoria Wheeldon, Wishing Well Day Care is a 49-place day nursery that has been designed with the sole purpose of caring for and nurturing the development of young children between the ages of six weeks and five years. Victoria recently decided to sell due to family commitments. Following a confidential sales process with Vicky Marsland at Christie & Co, which resulted in an offer accepted within three months of its launching to market, the setting has been purchased by Vivienne Pooleman of Blue Sky Day Nurseries. This is the group’s fourth setting in East/North Yorkshire and Vivienne remains keen to continue its growth plans in the coming years. Victoria Wheeldon, former owner of the setting, says: “Owning Wishing Well Day Care for over 21 years has been extremely rewarding, seeing so many lovely young children develop and grow, whilst providing care for parents/carers. “I count myself very fortunate to have met and worked with so many wonderful colleagues, customers, and suppliers during this time, I will miss you all. Selling the nursery was a very difficult decision to make, but I am now at the time in my life where I want to take some time out with my family and see what the future holds.” Vivienne Pooleman, owner of Blue Sky Day Nurseries, says: “It is with much excitement that I can announce Blue Sky Day Nursery will be taking over Wishing Well Day Care in Cottingham. Wishing Well is a wonderful setting with an amazing team and, as such, is a great match to the other Blue Sky nurseries. “The team are remaining in their roles and so parents can rest assured that their children will continue to get the same great care as they are used to.” Vicky Marsland, associate director – childcare & education at Christie & Co, says: “Like most transactions, these processes are rarely straightforward and, despite a few items cropping up during the process, we were able to overcome them. I’m so pleased, for both the seller and the buyer, that we were able to get this over the line. “This is a beautiful, profitable nursery which I truly believe will flourish under the ownership of Blue Sky and could even lead to creating more opportunities for career development for the staff. It’s been a pleasure working with Victoria, and I wish her all the best in her future endeavours.” Wishing Well Day Care was sold for an undisclosed price.

Misconceptions about accountancy creating barriers for next generation of talent

Tess Egginton
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Misconceptions about accountancy creating barriers for next generation of talent

New research shows that many young people have misconceptions about careers in accountancy which may be creating unnecessary barriers and preventing them from seeing it as an attainable option, limiting the potential future talent pool of the profession. 

In the research, accountancy firm Grant Thornton UK LLP explores Generation Z’s view of accountancy as a career.  Analysing the responses of 2,000 people aged between 16 – 25 in the UK, the study seeks to better understand the attitudes and perceptions towards the accountancy sector of this age group.   

The top misconceptions held by Gen Z about accountancy, identified in the research, are:  

  • 62% believe you need high grades to become an accountant   

  • 57% believe you need to go to university to become an accountant   

  • 57% think training for accountancy qualifications is expensive   

  • 53% think accountants sit at desks all day  

The level of misunderstanding about the profession identified by the research may be explained by the finding that two thirds (65%) of young people have never received careers advice about accountancy.    

Those that have are most likely to have received it at school or college, however the type of school attended affects how much information young people receive. Those attending private schools are 20% more likely to have received careers advice about accountancy than those from comprehensive schools. Private school students are also more likely to know an accountant than those attending comprehensive schools (52% vs 43%).  

Social media and online research are the next most popular ways to source information about accountancy for Gen Z. Those from lower socio-economic backgrounds are more likely to find information in this way, they are also less likely to receive advice about the profession from a family member or friend. 

Richard Waite, people and culture director at Grant Thornton UK LLP, said: “There are now so many different routes available for young people considering joining the accountancy profession, whether that is starting on an apprenticeship straight from school, undertaking an internship or placement, or following the traditional graduate route. But it’s clear that there remain significant, and detrimental, misconceptions about access to and working in the accountancy profession. 

“It’s therefore vital that employers, such as Grant Thornton, take action to help bridge that gap so we do not miss out on attracting the next generation of new and diverse talent to the sector. Employers need to take the time to actively educate young people, to reach out and work with schools in target areas, such as social mobility cold spots, to tackle some of these false barriers and provide much needed advice and insight to those considering the next step in their lives.” 

The research finds that the school you attended has a significant impact on whether you view accountancy as an attainable career. Private school attendees are 25% more likely to believe that a career in accountancy is attainable than those from comprehensive schools. 

Gender is also found to impact young people’s perceptions of attainability. Men are 13% more likely to believe that a career in accountancy is attainable than women. Non-binary people are less likely than men or women to feel a career in accountancy is possible.  

Overall, half of respondents believe that accountancy is an attainable career for them, while one in four (24%) disagreed. Of those who disagreed, one third attributed it to not knowing enough about the profession to consider it for a career.  

James Brown, practice leader for Grant Thornton UK LLP in the Central and East region, said: “It’s clear that the accountancy profession needs to work harder to bust historic misconceptions. There remain clear misunderstandings about not only the routes to entry but also the scope of the career on offer, which may be preventing many from considering it as an option. 

“Both the people and the careers available within accountancy are now more varied and diverse than ever before, with opportunities for international travel, varied work across different sectors and specialities and long-term career prospects. It’s evident that we need to showcase this more prominently and shine a light on the reality of the working accountancy world and the broad and rewarding career path it can offer. 

“The school you attend, your background or gender should not dictate your access to information or the career path you follow yet our research shows that these factors contribute to the level of exposure to and understanding that a young person may have of the profession. 

“Volunteering our time, through established initiatives such as Access Accountancy, RISE and our own firm’s Schools Enterprise Programme, to build confidence and knowledge with a wider range of young people will encourage a better understanding of the sector. Without a concerted effort to tackle these lingering misconceptions, we risk, inadvertently, missing out on a huge diverse pool of untapped talent.”

Yorkshire food group acquires first non-food business

Tess Egginton
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Yorkshire food group acquires first non-food business
Regal Food Products Group Plc, the food group owners behind household brands, Regal Foods and Yorkshire Baking Company, have acquired Packaging ‘R’ Us for an undisclosed sum – their first non-food and drink business. The acquisition comes in response to the group’s long-term vision of expanding and strengthening their wholesale and food service offering, whilst providing a diverse product range within their brand portfolio. Since the recent challenges of Covid-19 and Brexit, the Regal group have identified the importance of becoming a one-stop solution for their customers, delivering services including finished goods, ingredients, and now packaging. Packaging ‘R’ Us is a well-established catering supplier, manufacturing and specialising in a wide range of disposable food packaging solutions, including foil containers, catering foil, disposable utensils, and plastic containers. Younis Chaudhry, CEO of Regal Food Products Group Plc, adds: “Following on from our Just Desserts Yorkshire acquisition 18 months ago, we are delighted to be bringing our first non-food and drink business into the Regal group. “Acquiring Packaging ‘R’ Us will allow to develop our wholesale arm of the business, whilst offering our customers an eclectic range that will naturally sit alongside our existing products and brands. “As a PLC we recognised a business that presented itself with opportunities and using our existing teams, manufacturing expertise, distribution networks and channels to market, we can really build and scale what is already a great business. “This is an extremely exciting milestone in the Regal journey, as we not only welcome our first non-food brand into the group but relocate Packaging ‘R’ Us and its production to our main manufacturing and distribution facilities to Bradford. “As a business that has the Bradford community close to its heart, we are pleased the new production site will create approximately 20 new jobs offering employment in a range of keys areas, whilst providing platforms and opportunities for personal development.”

Inflation sees further fall – but remains stubborn

Tess Egginton
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Inflation sees further fall – but remains stubborn
Inflation has fallen to 6.8% in the year to July, new data from the Office for National Statistics (ONS) shows, with the consumer price index (CPI) down from 7.9% in June. It marks the second month in a row that the rate of inflation has dipped sharply. Falling gas and electricity prices provided the largest downward contributions to the monthly change, while a slower rise in food prices helped ease inflation rates. The decline sees prices increasing at a less rapid rate than wages, indicating further pressure for the Bank of England to raise interest rates next month. Moreover, core inflation, which takes out energy, food, alcohol and tobacco to give a clear picture of underlying trends, was unchanged from 6.9% in June. Alpesh Paleja, CBI lead economist, said: “A big fall in inflation was widely expected in July, given the 37% cut to Ofgem’s energy price cap. However, the Bank of England will be more concerned about signs of persistent domestic price pressures. In particular, the latest data points to continually strong wage growth, which means that more interest rate rises are in the pipeline. “Inflation will continue to fall through the remainder of this year. While this is welcome news for households, the Bank has been clear that they’re willing to keep interest rates higher for longer if needed, to reign in price pressures. So, at least for the time being, tighter financial conditions for households and businesses look like they’re here to stay.” Martin McTague, national chair of the Federation of Small Businesses (FSB), said: “While a drop in inflation provides some comfort, today’s figures show less of a drop in inflation than hoped for, and will renew fears of a wage-price spiral, and of yet more base rate hikes in future. “The worry now is that rising wages ignite a fresh wave of inflation in September, which will threaten the momentum from June’s GDP growth. “The cost of doing business crisis still has a grip on the small business community, as prices for many key inputs, from energy to components and raw materials, remain far above where they were a year ago. “Any reduction in inflation is good news, but the huge toll that spiralling prices have inflicted is still being keenly felt by small firms. “Despite the inflationary pressures that we’ve seen for more than a year, more small businesses have seen their revenues shrink over each of the last five quarters than have seen them increase, according to our research. “Small business confidence levels fell back in the second quarter, with stickier-than-expected inflation alongside interest rate increases playing a major part in that. We very much hope that these inflation figures continue on a downward trend in Q3, to give confidence among small firms a chance to recover. “Yesterday’s record wage increase figures will however make the path back to lower inflation and lower interest rates more complicated, while the news that GDP rose by 0.5% in June makes the job of maintaining recovery while bearing down on inflation a tricky one. “With low interest rate deals on loans and finance options near-impossible to find, small firms looking to grow will be keeping their fingers crossed that the end of base rate rises is in sight. “We’re calling on the Government to use the rest of the summer to plan a growth agenda for small firms, and tackling late payment should be top of the list. Having to chase overdue payments is a huge drain on small firms’ resources, increasing their cost of doing business and making them more likely to have to apply for finance to manage their cashflow.” Remaining stubborn, inflation sits much higher than the Bank of England’s 2% target.

Clean energy company ITM plans venture with Italian energy conversion specialist

Stuart Pearcey
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Clean energy company ITM plans venture with Italian energy conversion specialist
Sheffield-based clean energy company ITM Power is to collaborate with Italian energy conversion company FRIEM to develop a standard Power Supply Unit design optimised for ITM’s 2MW Plug & Play electrolysis container.
Based on state-of-the-art electrotechnical solutions, the development will leverage each company’s expertise and experience from projects executed both jointly and independently. The aim is to further improve the performance of the PSU by closer integration with ITM’s electrolyser technology. Also, the standardisation aims to further drive overall system reliability, while lowering cost.
ITM is a leader in the design and manufacture of electrolysis solutions based on proton exchange membrane technology. Electrolysis requires electrical energy for the process of splitting water into hydrogen and oxygen gases. Power conversion is therefore a key function of electrolysis systems, and it is necessary to ensure a high level of integration.
FRIEM is a leader in electric energy conversion systems with 70 years of experience as a supplier into industrial applications. The PSU converts AC power supplied from either the electricity grid or directly from renewable generators to DC power in a form suitable for the electrolysis process.  The characteristics of the PSU therefore contribute to the performance of the overall system.
Dennis Schulz, CEO of ITM Power, said: “Today’s announcement with FRIEM follows the communication of our collaborations with Mott and Gore, all of which support ITM to cement our technology leadership in PEM electrolysis. A closer integration of electrolyser and PSU will further advance overall system performance and drive down cost.”

Lincolnshire Chamber appoints new Head of Membership

Stuart Pearcey
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Lincolnshire Chamber appoints new Head of Membership
Lincolnshire Chamber of Commerce has recruited Paul Green as its new Head of Membership. Paul joins the Chamber from Hegarty Solicitors, where he worked as Business Development, working collaboratively with partners to develop and implement a business growth strategy. Before that, Paul worked with South Kesteven District Council focusing on business support and economic development. He said: “I am delighted to join both Lincolnshire and Rutland Chamber of Commerce and look forward to meeting and working with everyone who plays a part in shaping and developing the Chambers. My diary is open for discussions with past, present and future members!” In his new role, Paul will work closely with the Chief Executive to oversee  all membership activity, through working closely with the Membership Executive team and providing strategic input to all Chamber services. He added: “It’s an exciting time to be joining Lincolnshire and Rutland Chamber of Commerce with more events than ever before, meaning there are a growing number of opportunities for our members to get involved, grow their networks and meet new like-minded businesses. I strongly believe the Chamber of Commerce can provide the necessary support, guidance and prospects that will help the county grow together”. Rutland Chamber of Commerce has recently formed as part of Lincolnshire Chamber of Commerce, which has been supporting businesses for over 130 years. Together, both Chamber of Commerce organisations aim to support businesses across the two counties.
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