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Metro Bank secures £19.7m deal for Hepworth Clay’s growth under new ownership

April Lara

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2nd July 2025

Metro Bank secures £19.7m deal for Hepworth Clay’s growth under new ownership

Metro Bank has finalised a £19.7m asset-based lending deal to support Hepworth Clay, the UK’s sole manufacturer of vitrified clay pipes, now under the ownership of 4D Capital Partners LLP. The financial package includes invoice and stock finance, a plant and machinery term loan, as well as ongoing working capital.

Hepworth Clay, a key player in the Midlands manufacturing sector, produces drainage solutions and terracotta construction products, sourcing materials from its own quarries. This financing will enable the company to continue its operations and expand under its new ownership.

Metro Bank’s involvement comes as part of its broader strategy to support regional manufacturing businesses. The bank worked alongside 4D Capital and various advisors to structure a deal that addresses the unique needs of Hepworth Clay, ensuring it remains a vital part of the local economy.

4D Capital Partners, which has recently acquired Hepworth, was advised by a range of local professionals, including Quantuma and Shoosmiths. Metro Bank’s team provided the necessary flexibility to navigate the complexities of the deal, marking a strong step in the bank’s commitment to supporting UK manufacturing.

Research centre launched by universities of Sheffield, Newcastle and Nottingham to position UK as a global leader in clean technology

Tess Egginton

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1st July 2025

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Research centre launched by universities of Sheffield, Newcastle and Nottingham to position UK as a global leader in clean technology

A major new research centre set to position the UK as a global leader in clean technology by replacing fossil petrochemicals and recycling industrial waste using sustainable chemistry, is being launched by researchers at the universities of Sheffield, Newcastle and Nottingham.

As referenced in the UK government’s recent Industrial Strategy, Great British (GB) Chemicals brings together researchers from a total of 10 universities who will work with stakeholders throughout the chemical industry to produce cleaner versions of the chemicals that we depend on in our modern lives, to reduce pollution, ensure resilience, and secure economic sustainability.

The centre is funded by the Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council (EPSRC) and the Natural Environment Research Centre (NERC).

Led by Professor Peter Styring from the University of Sheffield, and Professors Libby Gibson from Newcastle University and Mike George from the University of Nottingham, GB Chemicals aims to accelerate the deployment of world-leading laboratory research through real-world demonstration and validation, and promote UK investment, job creation and potential export markets for the chemical industry.

Kedar Pandya, executive director for strategy at EPSRC, said: “This investment by EPSRC and NERC will drive a sustainable chemical industrial future, shifting the UK away from environmentally harmful processes towards circular alternatives that improves peoples’ lives and drive economic growth.

“Working closely with industry partners, this will be a systems approach that optimises the interdependencies between environmental net gain, decarbonisation, and resource efficiency.

“By embedding environmental science within manufacturing solutions, we’re enabling an environmentally sound net zero transition that has a positive impact on biodiversity, ecosystems, and natural resources – aligning with priorities in the clean energy industries sector plan.”

Professor Peter Styring, professor of Chemical Engineering and Chemistry at the University of Sheffield and co-director of GB Chemicals, said: “The award of Great British Chemicals reflects a great effort by our 10-university team to put a sustainable chemicals industry at the forefront of a long-needed transition.

“We will take emissions from foundation industries to provide the feedstocks to drive future chemicals production. One of the things that shone through during the process was the enthusiasm of the team to succeed and to help develop a world-leading new chemicals sector.

“There will be challenges: technical, economic and social, however we have the right team to deliver that to where there are currently gaps, and we have the flexibility in funding to bring in new partners and stakeholders.

“We already have combined experience in developing technologies to pre-commercial systems and we have shown that working as teams on a consolidated whole systems approach can deliver results at an accelerated pace. Co-creation with our stakeholders can drive that even more when we work together as a focused team.”

Professor Libby Gibson, professor of Energy Materials at Newcastle University, and co-director of GB Chemicals, said: “I’m delighted that we have been awarded the opportunity to lead Great British Chemicals. Carbon from the petrochemical industry is embedded in almost every manufactured product.

“If we want to cut pollution, improve health outcomes, become more resilient, grow the economy, provide jobs and keep products affordable, we need to urgently accelerate the deployment of smarter technology that keeps carbon in use rather than digging it up and then discarding it.

“This award enables us to unlock that opportunity, by driving innovation from the lab bench to the industrial backbone through our partnerships, pilots, data, and training. Ultimately, this will enable the community to secure investment, strengthen policy and create a lasting benefit for the planet.”

Professor Michael George, professor of Chemistry at the University of Nottingham, and co-director of GB Chemicals, said: “The UK chemical using industries are an under-appreciated jewel in our country’s economy. I am thrilled to be part of Great British Chemicals, helping to shift this sector towards sustainable operations. Success needs the participation of our wide range of university and industrial stakeholders focusing on the skills agenda.

“Our centre recognises the vital role of technical professionals in research across academia and industry. This includes partnership with the UK Institute for Technical Skills and Strategy, aligning with the Technician Commitment to support visibility, opportunity and the sustainability of skills.”

Great British Chemicals is funded by the Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council and the Natural Environment Research Council, both part of UKRI. The centre will be funded at a full economic cost of £22.5 million for seven years.

GB Chemicals will begin officially on 1 August 2025, although work has already begun to ensure the consortium hits the ground running.

New managing partner appointed at Arc Pensions Law

Tess Egginton

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1st July 2025

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Arc Pensions Law has appointed Anna Copestake as managing partner. Anna has spent her career so far as a pension lawyer, advising on a broad range of both defined benefit and defined contribution pension arrangements, including for trustees, sponsors, insurers and service providers. Having joined Arc Pensions Law in 2016, Anna has played a key role in the development of the firm’s defined contribution and investment practice, combining technical insight with commercial pragmatism. Anna will be taking over as managing partner from Kate Payne and will focus on the delivery of Arc Pensions Law’s long-term strategy and growth, while Kate returns to her full-time client-facing role. Senior partner Anna Rogers said: “Anna Copestake approached us at Arc more or less the day we launched in 2015 and has always been passionate about the business side of pensions law. She’s developed an impressive legal practice and now is the time for her to step into a management role. “Anna has been integral to the growth of the firm from the very early days, and she knows it inside out. We see Arc as the pensions law firm for the future and the next generation of pension lawyers are crucial in driving the change and innovations that lie ahead. “I’d also like to thank Kate Payne for her leadership as managing partner, and I know she is looking forward to focusing on clients full-time again.” Commenting on her appointment, Anna Copestake said: “It is a privilege to be entering the next phase of my career at Arc as managing partner. With pensions law evolving at pace, our strength lies in the clarity, confidence and technical excellence with which we service our clients.” Kate Payne said: “I am excited for this next chapter of Arc Pensions Law. I have immense confidence in Anna Copestake, and I am proud to be leaving this role firmly in her capable hands. I look forward to continuing my practice and supporting the firm’s growth in the years ahead.”

Eutechtics secures Smart Grant to decarbonise chemicals

Tess Egginton

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1st July 2025

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Eutechtics secures Smart Grant to decarbonise chemicals

Eutechtics, a Sheffield chemistry startup developing low-carbon routes to essential industrial chemicals, has been awarded a Smart Grant from Innovate UK. It recognises Eutechtics’ innovative platform technology for producing carboxylic acids from captured CO₂, using significantly less energy than conventional processes — a breakthrough with far-reaching implications for sustainable chemical manufacturing. The grant is match-funded by Prosemino, a specialist venture studio. In total, Eutechtics has raised £400,000 aimed at scaling up the platform and driving it toward commercial readiness. This strategic support marks a major step forward in Eutechtics’ mission to decarbonise critical chemical supply chains. “This award is a huge vote of confidence in our technology and our vision for fossil-free chemical manufacturing,” said Armando Leal, CEO and co-founder of Eutechtics. “We’re proud to be developing a platform that doesn’t just reduce emissions, but reimagines the supply chain using waste CO₂ as a resource.” “Prosemino was built to create the next generation of climate tech companies—starting from first principles,” said Dr. Gyen Ming Angel, director of venture building at Prosemino. “We don’t just invest or provide space – we work side-by-side with founders to turn the real needs of early-stage science-led startups, so teams like Eutechtics can focus on development from day one – not setup or logistics.”

Hull occupational health services provider expands with acquisition

Tess Egginton

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1st July 2025

0

Hull occupational health services provider expands with acquisition

Latus Group, the Hull-based providers of occupational health services, has acquired Peritus Health Management. The acquisition, which was supported by NorthEdge private equity, represents a strategic consolidation within the sector and significantly scales Latus Group’s capacity and geographical reach.

Peritus, based in Brighouse, is a provider of occupational health, health surveillance and occupational hygiene services and has delivered consistent growth of 20% year-on-year for the last five years.

Amanda Dowson, founder of Peritus, brings over 30 years of occupational health and safety management expertise as a Specialist Practitioner and Chartered Member of IOSH. She’s a long-standing committee member of the Yorkshire Branch IOSH Group and has led quality management systems to SEQOHS standards. Julian Dowson, an Occupational Hygienist and Peritus Director, specialises in practical health risk management through robust controls and workplace monitoring. His vocational education background enhances his on-site teaching, influencing positive behavioural safety.

All 30 Peritus employees have been welcomed into the Latus team and operations will continue to be supported from a new Brighouse-based office. Jack Latus, CEO of Latus Group, said: “This deal marks an exciting step forward in our mission to modernise occupational health. Peritus has earned a strong reputation for quality, integrity, and service and those values are right at the heart of what we’re building at Latus. “As businesses continue to turn to joined-up, future-ready workplace health solutions, this acquisition enables us to offer clients a broader, more seamless service, from hygiene monitoring through to health surveillance, all in one place and all working together, supporting UK businesses to maintain statutory health compliance and beyond. “By bringing together our strengths, we’re creating a stronger, smarter platform that’s fit for the future of workplace health in the UK.” Sam Latus, COO of Latus Group, said: “Peritus is highly complementary to Latus, which has built strong relationships through trust, clinical excellence, and personalised service. We’re excited to welcome Amanda, Julian and the Peritus team to the Latus Group, working together to improve the health, safety and wellbeing of employees across the UK.” Amanda Dowson, founder of Peritus, added: “We’re incredibly proud of what we’ve built at Peritus, and joining Latus Group marks the beginning of a new chapter. Our shared values and complementary services make this a natural fit and we’re confident that our customers and team will benefit enormously from the opportunities ahead.”

New initiative to connect Sheffield’s creative talent with industry employers

April Lara

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1st July 2025

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New initiative to connect Sheffield’s creative talent with industry employers

The Sheffield College has launched a new initiative aimed at strengthening the city’s creative industries by connecting students with local employers. The scheme, named Sheffcol Creates – The Creative Academy, is designed to bridge the skills gap in Sheffield’s growing creative economy by providing students with hands-on industry experience.

Sheffield’s creative sector plays a crucial role in the local economy, generating nearly £1 billion annually and providing approximately 9,000 jobs across a wide range of fields. This includes design, digital marketing, film, photography, media production, and the performing arts. The new project aims to meet the growing demand for skilled workers in these industries by providing a collaborative approach to education.

Each year, The Sheffield College trains over 1,000 students in creative disciplines, including art and design, media, and performing arts, through a mix of diplomas and degree-level qualifications. Sheffcol Creates invites employers to participate in the curriculum actively, providing opportunities for mentorship, live briefs, and industry placements, among other forms of engagement.

The project’s official launch event was held at 99 Mary Street in the Cultural Industries Quarter, with key figures from the Sheffield Chamber of Commerce, Sheffield City Council, and the college in attendance. This initiative marks a significant step towards cultivating a pipeline of talent for Sheffield’s creative sector and ensuring its continued growth.

Sofina Foods expands footprint with acquisition of Finnebrogue

April Lara

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1st July 2025

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Sofina Foods expands footprint with acquisition of Finnebrogue

Sofina Foods has strengthened its market position by acquiring Finnebrogue, a family-owned food manufacturing company based in Northern Ireland. Founded in 1991, Finnebrogue employs approximately 1,200 people across four advanced production sites in County Down. The company is known for its range of products, including outdoor-bred pork, sausages, rashers, ham, and plant-based alternatives.

This acquisition aligns with Sofina Foods’ ambitious growth strategy. The company, already a major player in the seafood and pork sectors, operates extensively across the UK and Europe. Its seafood division, which includes the Young’s brand, is the largest provider of chilled and frozen products in the UK and holds significant market share in Germany and France. Sofina Foods Europe now employs over 9,000 people across 27 sites following the acquisition.

Finnebrogue’s operations will complement Sofina’s existing distribution network and further enhance its portfolio of sustainable, high-quality food products. The integration of Finnebrogue’s expertise supports Sofina’s strategic expansion across Europe.

The transaction was managed by Sofina’s in-house teams with external support from PWC, Taylor Wessing, Tughans LLP, Ashurst, and Tetra Tech. Finnebrogue was advised by Piper Sandler, Carson McDowell, and EY.

Recognise Bank completes £1.79m bridging loan for Lincolnshire developer

Tess Egginton

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1st July 2025

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Recognise Bank completes £1.79m bridging loan for Lincolnshire developer

Recognise Bank has completed a gross £1.795 million bridging loan across multiple industrial sites and land in Lincolnshire for an established development and construction business. Completed in partnership with Archway Capital Partners, the facility will allow the developer to maximise sales values across the commercial units on the sites. The borrower, part of a long standing and family owned group, recently completed two industrial sites across Lincolnshire as well as two landbank sites with planning permission in place. The bespoke bridging facility structured by lending managers, Ian Fields & Heather Mitchell, provided the client with a short-term solution to allow time for asset sales and to support their strategic development pipeline in the future. Sam Monk, director at Archway Capital Partners, said: “It has been a great pleasure to work with Ian, Heather and Stephen to complete this deal and support our client. The Recognise Bank team crafted a bespoke solution, provided timely responses, and maintained great communication throughout. We look forward to working with the team again in the future.” Ian Fields, senior lending manager at Recognise Bank, said: “We are delighted to have worked with Sam and the Archway Capital team to facilitate the next phase of growth for another successful UK SME. Providing bespoke financial solutions is at the very core of what we do and this deal is a great example of what can be achieved when lender, broker and borrower work together.”

Pension reforms risk higher prices, fewer jobs and slower growth, warns FSB

Tess Egginton

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1st July 2025

0

Pension reforms risk higher prices, fewer jobs and slower growth, warns FSB

Prospective pension reforms could see small firms raise prices, cut jobs or slash profits, the Federation of Small Businesses (FSB) has warned. New research looks at how the current rules relating to auto-enrolment are already piling cost and complexity onto small employers. It also exposes how possible changes expected in the second phase of the Government’s Pensions Review – due later this year – could heap much further pressure on small firms already dealing with soaring wage bills and mounting National Insurance contributions (NICs). Most employers already say that decoding pension rules is a headache (53%), and a quarter (24%) are paying over £500 a year for advice – even before new changes are introduced. Small employers want to do right by their staff – but 79 per cent are concerned about the rising cost of employment, and reforms must reflect that pressure. FSB’s report, Backing the Future, lays bare the full impact of potential pension reforms being promoted by the Government. If employer pension contributions were to double to six per cent, 92 per cent of small employers would have to change their business negatively to cope, raising prices (52%), recruiting fewer workers (38%), cutting profits or absorbing costs (34%), and reducing the number of employees (14%). One of the proposals could see pension contributions applied from the very first pound earned, instead of the current £6,240. This would see 82 per cent of small employers affected negatively, raising prices (36%), cutting profits or limiting earnings (32%), recruiting fewer workers (28%), reducing pensions to a minimum of three per cent (19%), and cancelling/scaling down plans for investing in the business (19%). FSB is now calling for:

Phase two of the Pensions Review to explicitly examine how workplace pension changes impact small employers and learn from how auto-enrolment has been rolled out until now. The review must look closely at the financial and admin burden on small businesses, including the cost of advice, running payroll, and getting to grips with the rules before bringing in any new proposals.
Ministers to commission a full cross-cutting economic assessment before any changes to pension rules are made, which includes the impact of recent rises in National Insurance and the National Living Wage, to ensure small firms are not hit with unaffordable costs or forced into tough choices like raising prices or cutting jobs. Last November, the Labour Government said it would only make changes to auto-enrolment if the impact on businesses was fully considered.
No changes be made to the earnings threshold, no increase to employer contributions and no lowering of the age limit before the economic assessment is complete.
The Government to convene regulators, including The Pensions Regulator and the Financial Conduct Authority, and industry stakeholders, to simplify pension rules and provide clearer guidance for small employers, reducing complexity and unnecessary admin. This would be a pro-growth, pro-employment move.
When considering pensions adequacy, the Government should look beyond just increasing contributions – considering scheme performance, investment returns and the real-world impact on small employers and employees. Poor fund performance leading to lower pensions later in life should not be masked by simplistic debates on contribution levels.

Tina McKenzie, policy chair of the Federation of Small Businesses, said: “Small business owners want to do the right thing. Entrepreneurs have taken on auto-enrolment, absorbed the costs, navigated the jargon, and kept paying into their staff’s pensions even when their own margins have fallen. But goodwill has limits. “The more complex and expensive the system becomes, the more we risk pushing employers from willing participants into reluctant bystanders. If the Government wants pensions policy to succeed, it must prioritise clarity over complexity and provide the right support. “This is not about resistance to pension reform, it’s about the cumulative burden of regulation and the rising cost of employment. Small firms are already feeling the pinch – NICs and wage increases are really taking their toll – and any new reforms could push many to breaking point. This is no time to add new burdens. Ministers should pause, take stock, and think carefully before stacking more costs on firms already under strain. “Now, as phase two of the Pensions Review gets underway, the Government must ensure the real pressures facing small businesses are front and centre – no further changes should go ahead without proper protections in place.”

Government steps in to support at-risk jobs following refinery insolvency

April Lara

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1st July 2025

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Government steps in to support at-risk jobs following refinery insolvency

The UK government is stepping in to support the continued operation of the Prax Lindsey Oil Refinery in Immingham, North East Lincolnshire, after its owner went into administration, putting 420 jobs at risk. Prax Group, which acquired the refinery from Total in 2021, filed for insolvency last Sunday, prompting concerns from union representatives that as many as 1,000 jobs, including those of contractors and supply chain workers, could be affected.

The government has allocated funding to the official receiver to ensure the refinery’s safe operation. The Department for Energy Security has confirmed the refinery suffered losses of approximately £75 million from the 2021 acquisition to February 2024. Despite reassurances from Prax that no immediate closure was imminent, the company shifted its position last week, stating that it could no longer continue as a going concern.

Energy Minister Michael Shanks criticised Prax’s lack of transparency about its financial gap and its failure to cooperate in finding a solution. The government is now looking for potential buyers for the refinery and other uses for the site if a sale cannot be secured. The government has pledged to maintain energy supplies and protect the local community while supporting affected workers.

Trade unions, including Unite, are calling for immediate action to protect jobs and ensure the refinery’s continued operation. Concerns have been raised about the long-term future of the site, which is strategically important for both fuel production and local employment.

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