Executive search company promotes principal to divisional manager

Tess Egginton
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Executive search company promotes principal to divisional manager

Leeds-based international executive search agency Spencer Riley has promoted Adam Dowson to divisional manager as it continues to invest in its team and expand its specialist cold chain and life science logistics division.

Adam joined Spencer Riley in 2017 as a trainee and has progressed through the ranks to executive, senior executive search consultant and then principal search consultant before his latest promotion to divisional manager.

Adam has established himself as an experienced global consultant in the highly regulated cold chain and life science logistics sector. Spencer Riley continues to invest and grow this and other specialist teams.

His clients comprise market-leading couriers, temperature-controlled packaging solutions innovators and major integrators providing complete supply chain solutions across Europe, Asia-Pacific and North America.

Adam Dowson said: “It is great to have my role at Spencer Riley recognised with this latest promotion. My ambition now is to build my team further and to expand into niche areas within the life science logistics and packaging sectors.”

Managing Director Scott Ellam said: “Congratulations to Adam on his latest well-deserved promotion which recognises his drive and commitment as well as his consistently exceptional performance on behalf of clients and candidates.

“Adam has been with me from near the beginning and is a key member of our team.  Adam’s skill set and experience is invaluable to Spencer Riley as we continue our journey. We’ve had a great 12 months in terms of growth, and I look forward to supporting Adam as he builds his team and expands his portfolio offering.

“Adam’s clients, candidates and colleagues will know how much their successes matter to him and his character is reflected in the relationships he builds both within the company and with our partners. I look forward to seeing him developing the future generations of trainees as we increase hiring through 2023.”

Prime Leeds city centre retail building changes hands in £2.5m deal

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Prime Leeds city centre retail building changes hands in £2.5m deal
A prime retail building in the heart of Leeds city centre’s main pedestrianised area, on the corner of Commercial Street and Trinity Street, has changed hands in a £2.5 million deal. The 6,500 sq ft building, which is spread across five storeys, has been sold by a major UK Fund Manager which was advised by Leeds property consultancy, GV&Co’s investment division. The property has been acquired by a private investor and is let to Japanese and Asian-inspired restaurant and take-away chain, itsu. The purchase reflects a net initial yield of 3.38% rising to 6.77% in July 2023 following a fixed uplift in the rent. Garry Howes, director of investment at GV&Co, said: “This is a landmark building on one of Leeds city centre’s busiest streets as well as being next to the northern entrance of Trinity Leeds, meaning thousands of people walk past it every day. “It also benefits from a very popular tenant in itsu, a long lease until 2032, and a fixed uplift in the rental income. This made it a sought-after investment opportunity with a number of UK fund managers and private companies all expressing an interest.”

Second phase of Bradford student development launches

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Second phase of Bradford student development launches
Integritas Property Group (IPG), an ethical property developer based in the North West, has launched its second phase of the ‘Bijou’ project. Following the completion of the first phase, ‘Optima’ has been designed to capitalise on its location in the heart of Bradford city centre.
Designed for student accommodation, Optima will host a total of 54 student pods and 4 accessible studios.
Speaking on its investment in Bradford city centre, Integritas Property Group founder and Managing Director Mitchell Walsh said: “Bradford is the tenth largest city economy in England, worth an estimated £11.6 billion, so it’s a great area to concentrate on regenerating. It’s a well-connected city with direct rail access to London and has been awarded the UK City of Culture for 2025. 
“Over the coming few years, the city will see a whole host of redevelopment with the local authority planning to improve large areas of the centre, following a £20 million grant from the UK Levelling Up fund. The rental yield in Bradford also sits at 6%, which is 2.4% higher than the national average, making it a great time to invest in the area.”
Construction of the new Optima site will start in June 2023, with the expected first completion in June 2024.

How green is your property? Conveyancers told of duty to advise on climate legal risks

Stuart Pearcey
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How green is your property? Conveyancers told of duty to advise on climate legal risks
Conveyancing solicitors have been warned by the Law Society of England and Wales that they have an overall duty to advise on climate legal risks when acting in transactions. They must now consider whether climate searches are required for every property transaction they oversee, with the caveat that they ‘should not advise on climate change physical risks where it is outside their knowledge or qualification’. The new guidance reflects the 2008 Climate Change Act, which commits the UK to cut greenhouse gas emissions by at least 68% by 2030 and 78% by 2035. Chris Watson of X-Press Legal Services Lincolnshire said: “The Climate Change Act is already having a significant impact on the construction and housing sectors so to see it now filtering into property transactions is of little surprise. “For the home buyer this guidance means many solicitors will now feel duty bound to recommend a climate change report as part of the suite of property related searches undertaken during the conveyancing process. “Climate risks can be physical, transition, or liability related, and can negatively impact the value of land and buildings. In view of that, these searches will provide home buyers with an extra level of insight into their purchase and any climate related risks.”

Leeds-based civil engineering consultancy opens premises in the north west

Stuart Pearcey
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Leeds-based civil engineering consultancy opens premises in the north west
Leeds structural and civil engineering consultancy Dudleys has opened a new office in Prestwich in the wake of a ten percent increase in turnover to £1.82m for 2022 and a further projected 10% year-on-year growth for the next three years to achieve £2.66m by the end of 2025. A more permanent presence in the north west has been spearheaded by client activity, including Voyage Care with new-build projects in Burnley, Ellesmere Port, and Liverpool, and Home Bargains with developments in Leigh and Great Harwood. Dudleys is also appointed to assist in the delivery of the latest phase of development at Logistics North, a strategic employment site near Bolton, with further projects including Runcorn Services and new trade units on Carl Fogarty Way in Blackburn. Dudleys, which counts Leeds United, Leeds/Bradford Airport and Bettys & Taylors of Harrogate as long-standing clients, has doubled the size of its Leeds office space in the last twelve months with board director Paul Brownlow now heading up the new office in Prestwich. MD Andy Walker said: “Whilst we have served clients in the region for some years, our expanding portfolio now requires a more locally-based team.  We are optimistic about future business growth in the region and look forward to making our presence more widely known across the industry.” Dudleys provides structural and civil engineering advice across the UK. Established more than 12 years ago, the privately-owned consultancy employs a team of 25 highly skilled engineers. It operates in all key real estate sectors including residential, industrial, commercial, retail and education.

Outdoor advertising operator expands into Scotland

Tess Egginton
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Outdoor advertising operator expands into Scotland

Outdoor advertising operator 75Media has moved into Scotland with the acquisition of 122 new billboard sites, including Scotland’s largest roadside advertising structure, the M8 Tower in Glasgow.

The Leeds-based company’s expansion into Scottish territory comes as part of its long-term partnership with Wildstone, the provider of outdoor media infrastructure. As well as Glasgow’s iconic M8 Tower, 75Media will now operate the Edinburgh Airport Tower which, combined with the M8 Tower, will offer brands almost 2.5 million impacts a fortnight in Scotland’s busiest roadside locations. A further 70 classic 48 sheets, 43 digital 48 sheets and six digital 96 sheets will also launch 75Media’s Scotland billboard portfolio across Glasgow and Edinburgh conurbations. The acquisitions are expected to generate revenue of approximately £5 million for the operator. Speaking about the Scottish expansion, 75Media’s Managing Director, Paul Inman, said: “This is a pivotal milestone in our growth strategy and will be instrumental in us realising our goal of becoming the number one billboard advertising network for brands in the UK. “This new Scottish network will enable us to become a dominant player in the Scottish out-of-home (OOH) market, with more sites still to come.” Founder and CEO of Wildstone, Damian Cox, added: “We are delighted to have extended our framework agreement with Paul and his team through this Scottish expansion. 75Media represents a platform of exceptional media assets which we are excited to help grow rapidly. Their sales strategy is extremely interesting and shows how driven businesses can exceed revenue expectations without always relying on the mainstream agency model. “We believe that DOOH is still very much in its infancy in the UK. Both broadcast and the premium side of the market will see significant growth and innovation within the next five years and we at Wildstone are excited to be spearheading that with our tenant base.” Paul continued: “It is an incredibly exciting time for us as a company and also a great honour to be taking on these prestigious sites, and we look forward to working with agencies and brands of all sizes across Scotland to help tell their stories, out-of-home.”

Trio of fine knitwear companies sold out of administration

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Trio of fine knitwear companies sold out of administration
Interpath Advisory has secured the future of three fine knitwear businesses based in Yeadon, near Leeds. Jack Brodie Limited is a retailer of cashmere clothing and accessories primarily to high-end retail customers based in the UK and USA, but also sells directly to consumers via its website. The Edinburgh Knitwear Company Limited is a retailer of pima cotton and cashmere products, while Pennine (London) Limited is a retailer of cashmere clothing and accessories. The three companies are connected by virtue of common directors and shareholders.  The companies had seen significant revenue growth in recent years, prompting management to invest in stock to meet demand, as well as investing in their direct-to-consumer channels including their websites. However, more recently, the companies began to experience significant pressure on working capital and, after assessing all their options, Rick Harrison and Howard Smith were appointed joint administrators to the entities on 19 April 2023.  Immediately following their appointment, Interpath Advisory concluded a sale of the business and certain assets of Jack Brodie Limited and The Edinburgh Knitwear Company Ltd to Jamm Logistics Limited. In a separate transaction, Interpath Advisory concluded a sale of the business and certain assets of Pennine (London) Ltd. to Belgium-based Amitex NV.  As part of the two transactions, all of the companies’ 38 employees will transfer to Jamm Logistics Limited and Amitex NV. Rick Harrison, Managing Director at Interpath Advisory, said: “We’re pleased to have concluded these two transactions which will enable these long-established fine knitwear businesses to trade.” Howard Smith, Managing Director at Interpath Advisory, added: “We’re particularly pleased to have been able to safeguard the jobs of all employees and wish them, and the respective management teams, all the best for the future.”

Colenso marks business growth with new shareholder appointment

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Colenso marks business growth with new shareholder appointment
Colenso Property, the York-based commercial property and asset management specialist, has welcomed Lucy Glasby as a shareholder and partner in the business following a period of significant growth for the company. Lucy first joined Colenso in 2018, and is now the business’s head of Facilities Management, overseeing its health and safety compliance, and the management of a range of hard and soft services, including mechanical and electrical maintenance, fire safety systems, cleaning, and security, throughout its extensive portfolio. Colenso, which manages a wide range of commercial properties across the UK for a variety of private clients, is expecting a 30% growth in net profit this year, following the business having expanded its service offering, recruited additional team members, invested in cloud-based software and streamlined business processes. In recent years, Colenso has also invested heavily into its sustainability offering, having project managed the installation of a number of Electric Vehicle (EV) charging points, along with solar panel installations for a range of private landlords, ahead of the upcoming changes to Minimum Energy Efficiency Standards (MEES) up to 2030. Lucy Glasby, head of Facilities Management at Colenso Property, said: “Having been part of the Colenso team for a number of years, the decision to invest within the business was an easy one, particularly given the exciting period of growth we are experiencing and expecting. “I’m particularly excited to be working to expand our sustainability offering, working with our clients to improve their green credentials and significantly reduce energy bills in the long-term.” Charles Harrison, head of Estates at Colenso Property, said: “Having taken the time to invest within the business during the pandemic, we have now been rewarded with a significant boost to our profitability. In light of this, we’re delighted to welcome Lucy to the board. “She has been an integral part of Colenso’s success to date, particularly in allowing us to expand our offering during recent years to provide service charge consultancy and management across our multi-tenanted commercial properties. “As a dedicated and talented member of the team, we couldn’t think of a better person to join the board, and we’re sure that she will play a crucial role during this next stage of our business journey.”Alexia Swift-Cookson, head of Asset Management at The Helmsley Group, whose portfolio of over 90 properties is managed by Colenso, added: “Having worked closely with Colenso for many years, we want to congratulate them on this latest appointment to the board. “As a business, Colenso shares our enthusiasm for York and its property sector, and has always provided a fantastic service across our £200m portfolio. We want to congratulate the whole team on its recent, well-deserved success.”

The Wolfson Centre for Bulk Solids Handling Technology reveals calendar of courses for 2023

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The Wolfson Centre for Bulk Solids Handling Technology reveals calendar of courses for 2023
The Wolfson Centre for Bulk Solids Handling Technology, University of Greenwich offers a wide range of short courses designed specifically for engineers involved in the handling and/or designing of equipment for bulk solid materials. Course content, offered as a mixture of online learning and face to face training, is continually developed to reflect the changes occurring in industry and the needs of the engineer. Many now offer a practical workshop in the on-site laboratories to complement the theoretical presentations and real-life case studies used.

The calendar of courses for 2023 includes:

9 – 10 May: Caking and Lump Formation of Powders and Bulk Solids; Concentration on issues relating to keeping powders and granules in a free-flowing, lump-free condition 16 – 18 May: Pneumatic Conveying of Bulk Materials; Identification of components of pneumatic conveying systems, system selection and design techniques 14 June: Dust Control for Processes; Identification and risk assessment within processing systems; studying dust prevention, capture and extraction methods 28 – 29 June: Pneumatic Conveying System Design; An in-depth exploration of detailed calculations for design of pneumatic pipelines and specifying plant (Advanced course) 11 – 15 September: Powder Handling and Flow for Additive Manufacturing;  A guide through the critical aspects of powder management for powder-based AM processing 19 – 20 September: Commissioning and Troubleshooting ‘Hands-on’ Pneumatic Conveying Systems; A look at the practical challenges of starting up systems on site and making sure they work as the designer intended 17 – 19 October: Overview of Particulate Handling Technology; An introduction to the storing and handling of bulk materials, equipment selection and design methodologies for safe and reliable plant 7 – 9 November: Pneumatic Conveying of Bulk Materials; Identification of components of pneumatic conveying systems, system selection and design techniques 29 – 30 November: Pneumatic Conveying System Design; An in-depth exploration of detailed calculations for design of pneumatic pipelines and specifying plant (Advanced course) 5 & 6 December: Electrostatics in Powder Handling; the cause and effect of electrostatic charging in bulk solids handling

If the course you are interested in is not shown, an In-Company course is possible.

For more information call 020 8331 8646, or contact wolfson-enquiries@gre.ac.uk

Card Factory acquires South African firm for £2.5m

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Card Factory acquires South African firm for £2.5m
Card Factory, the Wakefield-headquartered retailer of greeting cards, gifts and celebration essentials, has acquired SA Greetings Corporation (Pty) Ltd and its subsidiaries, which trade as SA Greetings, for £2.5m. SA Greetings is a wholesaler of greeting cards and gift packaging in South Africa. It also operates 24 ‘Cardies’ retail stores, with four further stores operated by franchisees, and owns and operates a roll-wrap production facility. Its head office and main warehouse are located in Johannesburg, with sales offices in Durban and Cape Town. South Africa is one of the target territories for Card Factory’s partnership expansion. The acquisition of SA Greetings, supports this strategic growth pillar by providing access to key wholesale accounts through the company’s printing, merchandising and warehousing capacity. Darcy Willson-Rymer, Chief Executive Officer, said: “We are delighted to have completed the acquisition of SA Greetings and look forward to working with our new colleagues. Under the continued leadership of SA Greetings MD, Willie Engelbrecht, we will closely collaborate to further enhance and develop opportunities for the Card Factory and SA Greetings businesses. “SA Greetings brings with it significant experience operating a wholesale business, which can inform and support development of our retail partnership business, and is entirely aligned with Card Factory’s strategic plan for international expansion. “As well as giving us a foothold into our target South African market, we will also be using their mature printing, merchandising and warehousing facilities to understand how we can deliver similar local capability in other target markets.”

North Yorkshire businesses boosted by broadband investment

Stuart Pearcey
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North Yorkshire businesses boosted by broadband investment
A £29m scheme to dramatically enhance broadband speeds for North Yorkshire homes and businesses is in its fourth phase, connecting premises in some of the most technologically-isolated areas of the county. The next stage of the Superfast North Yorkshire programme is targeting the most challenging areas of the county where it has previously not been viable to provide the improved internet connections. But with advancements in technology and the use of a new ultrafast ‘full fibre’ network with speeds of up to one gigabit, premises in deeply rural parts of North Yorkshire are being given faster and more reliable internet links. North Yorkshire Council leader Carl Les said: “The need to provide decent broadband connectivity to rural parts of the county has long been an aspiration of ours. “The fact that it is now becoming a reality will be of a huge benefit to those communities that have been technologically disadvantaged for so long. We all know how reliable internet connections are so important for everyday life in the 21st century, and we are committed to ensuring that everyone has access to broadband wherever they are based.” The fourth phase of the Superfast Broadband programme is due for completion next March, with almost 16,000 premises benefitting from vastly improved internet connections. Executive member for open to business, Cllr Derek Bastiman, whose portfolio includes broadband, said: “The roll-out of superfast broadband is having a profoundly positive impact for tens of thousands of North Yorkshire homes and businesses. “The latest phase of the project is helping put in place some of the last remaining pieces of the jigsaw to help provide improved connectivity throughout the whole county, including some of the most rural parts of North Yorkshire.” The first deeply rural area to benefit is centred on Buckden in the Yorkshire Dales. Among those villagers who have been given improved broadband connections is Gill Huck, who lives at Church Farm in Stubbing Lane in Hubberholme. Mrs Huck runs the 1,800-acre farm, which has 1,000 sheep and 100 cattle, with her husband, John, and their son, James, and his wife, Lucy. Mrs Huck said: “To have the improved connection to the internet has really changed our lives. Before the connections were a lot slower and had a habit of dropping out, but now we have the peace of mind that we can actually access the internet when we want. “It has helped so much with the running of the farm when we need to order supplies or fill out forms online – the internet is not something that is simply the preserve of towns and cities, and it is part of modern life wherever you live.” The latest phase of the project is being managed by NYnet, a company owned by North Yorkshire Council, and run by Quickline Communications, a rural broadband provider based in Willerby near Hull. NYnet CEO Alastair Taylor said: “So much work has been undertaken to address poor internet connections across the whole county. The fourth phase of the project will be a gamechanger for thousands of rural businesses and residents and highlights our commitment to delivering superfast internet speeds to all of North Yorkshire.” Research has shown that connecting everyone in the UK to full fibre broadband by 2025 could remove 300 million commuter trips, reducing carbon dioxide emissions by an estimated 360,000 tonnes each year. A fibre optic cable can send a signal over 120 miles without any significant loss of quality, while traditional copper cables can lose signal at just a mile.

Firms urged to guard against cyber attacks

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Firms urged to guard against cyber attacks
Cyber crime is on the rise, with perpetrators becoming increasingly devious about the ways in which they infiltrate and disrupt company systems. UK Global Cyber Crime figures reveal that the UK had the highest number of victims per million internet users with 4,783 last year – a rise of 20 per cent on 2020 figures. Thirty- nine per cent of businesses have reported a cyber threat. Rising concerns have encouraged Lincolnshire IT specialist LCS IT Solutions (LCSIT) to team-up with website design and digital marketing firm DBS Digital and experienced cyber engagement officers – working under the banner of the East Midlands Special Operations Unit (which covers the region’s five police forces) – to help county firms by sharing their expertise. Together they are staging a high-profile event at The Lawn in Union Road, Lincoln on May 4, to ensure businesses are left in no doubt that cyber crime has the power to disrupt businesses of all sizes. They say it is vital that businesses remain alert to potential problems. Lincolnshire-based LCSIT Managing Director Anthony Bryant said: “Some businesses simply think that cybercrime won’t happen to them. Others admit they are fearful of the unknown and businesses and organisations with compliance concerns, such as those working in the finance and health sectors, have their own particular worries. “It is clear that criminals are exploiting gaps within businesses where cyber security managers, who may be burnt-out by always having to be on their guard, may have inadvertently left a business open to attack.” Lincolnshire Police’s former Community Support Officer Justin Mekkaoui joined its Cyber Protection team a year ago. He is joining the East Midlands Special Ops Unit’s Cyber Engagement lead Sergeant Nick Stenner to speak at the Lawn event, which runs from 8am to 11.30am. Sgt Stenner said: “We are determined to raise awareness during our presentation, which will explain how participants can protect their online accounts. We will also focus on data breaches, the value of personal data, phishing attacks, ransomware, antivirus and firewalls, the use of public wi-fi and more.” Justin Mekkaoui said: “This event will also feature a Question-and-Answer session and we will be encouraging participants to speak-up if they have any points they feel unsure about.”
Lincoln-based website and digital marketing firm DBS Digital’s diverse client base includes business owners who often ask questions about cyber space matters. DBS Digital Managing Director Julie Priestley said: “Cyber crime is one of the biggest threats to our business, at DBS our goal is to guide and support businesses in website design and digital marketing, supporting cyber security awareness goes hand in hand with that goal.” Business owners and managers can book their FREE place at this event by visiting https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/cyber-threats-what-you-need-to-know-tickets- 597651731417

Construction starts on 400,000 sq ft smart logistics development in Doncaster

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Construction starts on 400,000 sq ft smart logistics development in Doncaster

Construction of a state-of-the-art 405,411 sq ft distribution and logistics facility in South Yorkshire has started at Eclipse, Doncaster.

Building contractor Bowmer & Kirkland has been appointed to deliver the smart scheme.  CBRE’s Industrial team in Leeds, alongside Colliers, are joint agents for the Grade A industrial space, acting for Blackbrook and Rula Developments.

Doncaster Council granted planning consent in December 2022 for the speculative development unit, a scheme by Blackbrook Capital and Rula Developments, which is scheduled for completion in January 2024 and is expected to achieve a BREEAM Excellent certification and EPC A Rating.

Blackbrook is a specialist investment firm focused on future-proof supply chain infrastructure across Europe. Rula Developments is a commercial developer focused on identifying and developing sites across the UK for immediate development or for medium to longer-term strategic development, delivering high quality buildings and schemes.

Blackbrook has invested in the carbon neutral building which will deliver 381,150 sq ft of much needed high quality, modern warehouse/industrial space to meet demand in the region. The development has capacity for up to 100% coverage of roof solar PV panels and will deliver more than 24,000 sq ft of Grade A office accommodation with 256 car parking spaces and 26 EV charging points on site.

Mike Baugh, executive director, CBRE Leeds Industrial team, said: “We are delighted to see works starting on site at the brand new Eclipse logistics development which will deliver much needed high quality industrial space to the regional pipeline. Eclipse offers market-leading sustainability credentials, designed specifically to reduce energy use, mitigate climate risk and boost biodiversity. It fulfils a number of ESG criteria sought after by occupiers.”

Alice Vacani, vice president at Blackbrook, said: “We are excited to see ground breaking on this excellent new addition to our portfolio. We prioritise sustainability at the design, construction and operations of our assets which perfectly align with the growing needs and demands of customers. The development is strategically located with prime highway connections, providing a gateway to the region and wider UK logistics network.”

Ben Ward, Managing Director at Rula Developments, said: “With limited speculative development taking place within the industrial and logistics sector, at a time of severe supply shortages, we are proud to be driving forwards with this extensive unit.”

TV antiques star sells Bradford business

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TV antiques star sells Bradford business
TV antiques show dealer Tim Hogarth has sold his Bradford business. A mainstay of the Dickinson’s Real Deal programme on ITV1 ever since it first aired in 2006, Tim has sold his two shops in Bradford city centre to Harvey and Thompson Ltd (H&T), who operate the UK’s largest pawnbroking chain. In freeing him up to devote more attention to his Red House Antique Centre in York, as well as his television work, Tim considered it essential that the buyer KBS Corporate identified as the best fit for Hogarth Antiques Ltd would continue to care for the interests of his customers and six employees. He is convinced they will be in good hands with H&T, who are the industry leader in the UK. “It was absolutely 100% important to me to make sure the staff, some of whom I had trained up and had worked for me since leaving school, were looked after,” said Tim.
“I have great confidence that the transition will prove to be nice and easy for the staff to move over and I know that will be the priority for H&T as well.” While he has no specific new plans in the pipeline at present, Tim’s idea is to invest the extra time he now has available on developing his existing business interests. “I’m looking to continue with Red House Antiques and spend more time there,” he added. “Having the Bradford shops was quite intense and took up a lot of time, which meant I couldn’t spend as much time at Red House.” And, of course, filming for series 19 of highly popular and successful antiques programme Dickinson’s Real Deal was due to begin on Saturday April 22nd in Stoke-on-Trent. Regarding his own ‘real deal’ which was overseen by KBS corporate deal executive Kaitlin Warburton, Tim expressed his satisfaction with the sale of his business. “I was happy, it was an easy process and KBS handled it well,” he said.

Entrepreneurial hub opens at University of Huddersfield

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Entrepreneurial hub opens at University of Huddersfield
A new space has opened at the University of Huddersfield, with the purpose of supporting entrepreneurs and small business owners develop their creative ideas. Titled the ‘Maker Space’, it will allow people the opportunity to use specialist tools and equipment they might otherwise not have access to. The Maker Space is a collaborative project between the University of Huddersfield and Business Kirklees – Kirklees Council’s business, economy and growth service – and Santander Universities, and is housed in the University’s Barbara Hepworth Building. Maker Space was officially launched at an event in the Barbara Hepworth Building, where students and budding entrepreneurs pitched their ideas at an audience including local business people, members of Kirklees council and University academics. Santander Universities director Matt Hutnell was in attendance to mark the occasion, offering their continued to support for student and graduate entrepreneurship at the University. The offering will specifically be open to businesses and entrepreneurs who are engaging with Business Kirklees or the University of Huddersfield’s Enterprise Team around developing their business, with the aim of helping them learn new skills and develop ideas. With access to a wide range of equipment – encompassing everything from 3D printers, Arduino and sewing machines to Apple Macs with Adobe creative software – entrepreneurs will be able to develop in every aspect of the creative process to spur their business along. As well as offering access to specialist equipment, the Maker Space will provide a physical place for creatives to come together and work alongside like-minded individuals. The Maker Space is a £71,895 investment, and Kirklees Council have contributed £30,000 of this funding through a revenue grant to help kickstart the project. This funding covers the Maker Space for an initial six-month trial period, running up to 30 September 2023. Whether the project continues beyond September will be based on its success and uptake. While this Maker Space is open specifically to young businesses, plans are also being developed to open another Maker Space in North Kirklees which will be less business-focused and available for use by the general public. David Shepherd, Kirklees Council’s Strategic Director for Growth & Regeneration, said: “This is a fantastic initiative which will allow young businesses the opportunity to work with the kind of state-of-the-art resources and learning they might otherwise not have access to. “The Maker Space has so much to offer, and I hope to see people using it to really develop their creative ideas, products, services and business plans, and to create new connections with like-minded people – something that’s invaluable when you’re building a business. This is a fantastic addition to the support we already provide for small businesses, start-ups and entrepreneurs in Kirklees.” University Vice-Chancellor Professor Bob Cryan CBE added: “This is a wonderful collaborative effort and I’m really excited about the possibilities that the Maker Space holds for students and graduates from the University of Huddersfield and for the wider community. “The resources that we are providing, from Arduino to overlockers will lead to the creation of new opportunities, new businesses and innovation. I urge people to find out more and see what they can do in the space and with the resources.”

New Sheffield premises for specialist prosthetics and orthotics company

Tess Egginton
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New Sheffield premises for specialist prosthetics and orthotics company
STEPS Prosthetics, a specialist prosthetics and orthotics company, has acquired a new site on Little London Road in Sheffield. STEPS Prosthetics was launched last year by directors Colette Shaw and Peter Durkin, who have over 20 years’ experience in delivering private, bespoke prosthetics and orthotic solutions following serious injury. They design, manufacture, fit and support amputee clients, and work in partnership with STEPS Rehabilitation to be the only provider of residential amputee rehabilitation services in the UK. Independent law firm Taylor Emmet LLP supported STEPS Prosthetics on the move. Led by senior associate Richard Whiteley, the firm’s commercial property team acted as legal advisors to STEPS Prosthetics, and helped settle the terms of the lease involved, working with the landlord of the site to complete the legalities less than a month after receiving the draft documents. “As a young company, we are delighted to be making this move to larger premises so soon after launching,” says director and founder, Colette Shaw. “Having a larger workshop, consultation and rehabilitation space allows us to support more clients who have suffered life-changing injuries following an accident. Last year we also opened our first satellite outpatient clinic based at Neural Pathways in Gateshead, Tyne & Wear. Being able to work out of three different premises allows us to give an enhanced level of service to clients.” Richard said: “We were delighted to advise STEPS Prosthetics as the company moves into a state-of-the-art new home. The building on Little London Road is part of a development which was built four years ago. We have advised on the acquisition of other retail units in the same location, enabling us to swiftly complete the necessary legalities on behalf of the STEPS Prosthetics team. It is great to see the site now fully occupied.”

New laws introduced today aim to prevent rip-offs in the online economy

Stuart Pearcey
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New laws introduced today aim to prevent rip-offs in the online economy
New legislation is being introduced today to ensure businesses and consumers are protected from rip-offs and can reap the full benefits of the digital economy with confidence. Fake reviews that cheat customers, subscription traps that cost more than a billion pounds a year and new powers for the Competition and Markets Authority to tackle businesses that breach consumer rights law are all elements of today’s far-reaching Bill. In competitive markets, firms strive to give consumers the best products, most choice, and lowest possible prices. The Bill will provide the CMA with stronger tools to investigate competition problems and take faster, more effective action, including where companies collude to bump-up prices at the expense of UK consumers. The CMA will be able to directly enforce consumer law rather than go through lengthy court processes. The reforms will also heighten the consequences for wrongdoers as the CMA and the courts will have the power to impose penalties of up to 10% of global turnover for breaching consumer law. Today’s Bill will also enable the Government to ban the practice of facilitating fake reviews or advertising consumer reviews without taking reasonable steps to check they are genuine. New rules will ensure consumers can exit subscriptions in a straightforward, cost-effective, and timely way and require that businesses issue a reminder to consumers when a free trial or introductory offer is coming to an end. This will help deliver one of the Government’s five priorities to grow the economy by increasing consumer choice and confidence in the products they buy and services they use. Business and Trade Minister Kevin Hollinrake said: “Smartphones and online shopping have profoundly changed the landscape for businesses, consumers and the foundations of a modern thriving economy, which now lie in strong consumer choice, confidence and competition.

“From abuse of power by tech giants, to fake reviews, scams and rip-offs like being caught in a subscription trap – consumers deserve better. The new laws we’re delivering today will empower the CMA to directly enforce consumer law, strengthen competition in digital markets and ensure that people across the country keep hold of their hard-earned cash.”

Repair Shop regular expands footwear business with backing from Finance Yorkshire

Stuart Pearcey
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Repair Shop regular expands footwear business with backing from Finance Yorkshire
Footwear repair and restoration business Yorkshire Sole is expanding into new premises with investment from Finance Yorkshire. Owner Dean Westmoreland – a regular on the BBC’s The Repair Shop – is opening a second shop which will see him start to make his own bespoke shoes. A £25,000 investment from Finance Yorkshire’s micro loan fund is enabling Dean to fit out his new space at Sunny Bank Mills, Farsley, and equip it with stitching, pressing and finishing equipment used in the repair of shoes and boots. Dean, 38, launched his business in 2017 after spending 15 years working in the cobbler trade. He plans to keep his Shipley store open to serve the local community while his new 500 sq ft unit will be known as Yorkshire Sole Shoemakers and Restorers. Dean said: “Cobbling is the original recycling and it’s really important that the trade is protected. It is a craft and I’m still learning all the time. “I needed more space to do repairs and move into making shoes under my own name. The investment from Finance Yorkshire is huge – it’s the first time I’ve had new machinery. It has changed my life and the life of the business and where I can positively take it.” Yorkshire Sole is an authorised repairer for the brand Redwing. Dean plans to sell its shoes and those of the Loake brand at Sunny Bank Mills. “I want it to be a destination which promotes the shoemaking and repair trade and where people can experience the craft of cobbling,” said Dean. Alex McWhirter, chief exec of Finance Yorkshire, said: “Dean is passionate about his craft and its heritage. He has already demonstrated his expertise to a wide audience, and he now has the opportunity to showcase the skills involved at his new premises. “Finance Yorkshire’s financial investments support companies across Yorkshire and the Humber to grow and realise their ambitions. We are pleased to support Dean and his business as he expands and continues to promote the art of cobbling.” Finance Yorkshire’s micro loan fund is part of its wider regional business fund which is expected to provide more than £50m to SMEs over the next five years. Investment is also available from its business loan, growth and seedcorn funds.

Employee ownership helps to drive up revenue by 60% for West Yorkshire company

Stuart Pearcey
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Employee ownership helps to drive up revenue by 60% for West Yorkshire company
Employee ownership allows companies to outperform their competitors in respect of KPIs including productivity, staff retention and absenteeism – and as such can be the key to business success, according to one Yorkshire business. With employee-ownership growing by bout 10% annually, it’s a model that’s working for Horizon Platforms, which operates from Normanton near Wakefield and has been employee owned for two years. As an employee-owned business, employees have the potential for annual bonuses associated with company performance, but do not directly own shares, allowing ownership to be transferred without the team needing to source funds to buy into the business. Recently recognised by Best Companies, formerly the Sunday Times List, as one of the top 100 mid-sized companies to work for in the UK, Horizon became the first powered access company to become employee-owned in February 2021. Since then to has gone from strength to strength, with revenue growth reaching about 60%. CEO Ben Hirst said: “I believe that even before becoming employee-owned, Horizon Platforms had already created an aligned, empowering, and collaborative culture. There’s no question though, handing ownership to the team via an Employee Ownership Trust has enhanced it further. “I link my thinking around this to two innate human needs – security and purpose – and I find it helpful to reflect on some similarities to home ownership. I guess it is safe to say that the majority of us wish to, at some point in our lives, own our own home. This provides us, and our families with security. I also regularly come across people who dream of building their own homes, wishing to influence the look and feel of a place they not only own but will spend significant time within. “Allowing great people the opportunity to enjoy the security of working in a business they collectively own, as well as the opportunity to craft the look and feel of that same business plays straight into these human needs. Hence why I was, and still am, thrilled to have been able to facilitate this for the team here at Horizon Platforms.”

Offshore Wind Connections Conference returns to Hull next week

Stuart Pearcey
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Offshore Wind Connections Conference returns to Hull next week
Associated British Ports will highlight its work across the offshore wind sector at this year’s Offshore Wind Connections Conference being held at The Doubletree by Hilton in Hull next week, Celebrating its tenth anniversary, the conference and exhibition promises to provide invaluable information and contacts for companies that are well-established in the sector and for those looking to enter or diversify into the market. ABP have recently launched its sustainability strategy, Ready for Tomorrow, backed by a plan to invest £2 billion in decarbonising its own operations by 2040 at the latest and in major infrastructure projects to enable the wider UK energy transition. For ABP this includes continuing to develop its leading offshore wind manufacturing and support hubs. ABP Humber Region Director Simon Bird said: “The Humber is one of the UK’s largest industrial clusters. Along with driving economic growth the region will play a critical role in supporting the delivery of the UK’s Net Zero objectives. The Humber Ports already play a vital role in supporting the biggest hub for offshore wind in the World. We will continue to invest to ensure we maintain our role as the place to be for green energy solutions in the UK.” ABP’s Port of Grimsby is strategically located adjacent to the world’s largest offshore wind farm, Hornsea 2. It is the UK’s largest offshore wind operations and maintenance port, supporting wind-farm operators and the wider supply chain. Green Port Hull, the UK’s world class centre for renewable energy, was developed with a £310m ABP and Siemens Gamesa partnership investment. Offshore wind turbine blade manufacturing, assembly, and servicing facilities make up its centrepiece. Siemens Gamesa’s facility is set to double in size as development in the North Sea accelerates. To further enhance the area’s offer, the Humber Freeport’s ambitious business plan aims to energise investment and growth across the offshore wind energy sector for years to come, bringing 7,000 new high-quality jobs. ABP is in a unique position to support the acceleration of the UK’s energy transition by providing the necessary port infrastructure to support offshore wind that will help to create a more sustainable future and deliver the significant investment, economic growth, and thousands of new, high-quality jobs in local communities.
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