Yorkshire manufacturing businesses get £2.4m digital innovation boost

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Yorkshire manufacturing businesses get £2.4m digital innovation boost
With hundreds of Yorkshire manufacturing businesses having put themselves at the forefront of enhancing their business through digital innovation, more can now join them after a further £2.4m was received to support the region’s digital ambitions. Since 2021, the “Made Smarter Yorkshire and Humber” programme has supported more than 700 Yorkshire manufacturing businesses to take up digital adoption projects to improve efficiency and productivity, boosting the strength of manufacturing across the region. Now, South Yorkshire Mayoral Combined Authority has received £2.4m funding to deliver the Made Smarter programme across Yorkshire in 2025/26, opening up the opportunities to more companies. South Yorkshire mayor Oliver Coppard said: “Yorkshire’s manufacturers are showing the rest of the country what it means to lead from the front – embracing digital innovation to boost productivity, create good jobs, and build a stronger, greener economy. “This new £2.4 million investment in the Made Smarter programme is another vote of confidence in our region’s potential. It’s a recognition that when we back our businesses with the right tools and support, they deliver – driving growth not just for Yorkshire, but for the whole country. “In South Yorkshire, we’re proud to be home to world-class companies and cutting-edge sectors. But more than that, we’re building an economy that works for everyone – where people have the opportunity to thrive, right here in the place they call home.” Since 2021, Made Smarter support has helped businesses by offering specialist digital advice and roadmaps, as well as grants, technical project support, and senior digital change management training. With new funding, this package of support will also include access to digital internships, wider digital change management training, and more project funding opportunities. Leadership training, organisational workforce development and digital internships will be delivered by Sheffield Hallam University. Digital roadmaps and intensive technical support will be delivered by RTC North. Tracy Brabin, mayor of West Yorkshire, said: “A manufacturing powerhouse, Yorkshire is once again driving an industrial revolution for this new age of science and technology, unlocking UK growth and prosperity. “But to maximise and deliver on our incredible assets and potential, our businesses must get the support they need to embrace new technologies, boost their productivity, upskill their workforce and create new jobs. “By coming together under our White Rose banner and with the backing of Government, our Made Smarter initiative will give manufacturing businesses across God’s own country the support they need to succeed, helping us build a stronger, brighter Britain that works for all.” Luke Campbell MBE, mayor of Hull and East Yorkshire, said: “We will make sure manufacturing businesses across Hull and East Yorkshire know about the financial support and expertise on offer to help adopt new digital technologies, so it can help improve their competitiveness and efficiency. “We have some fantastic Advanced Manufacturing businesses here in sectors such as Life Sciences, MedTech and New Energy. We’ve also got the strength of a UK-leading university in AI education on our doorstep. “Thanks to HEYCA teaming up with other Combined Authorities across Yorkshire, we can make this support available to local firms through the Made Smarter programme. I hope many businesses will apply and benefit.” David Skaith, mayor of York and North Yorkshire, said: “When we invest in our businesses to make them more competitive and productive, we secure jobs and boost communities across York and North Yorkshire. “This is felt in our rural and coastal towns when we support businesses like Hunprenco in Filey as well as our cities when Choc Affair in York uses the funding to scale up production. “Now with an additional £2.4 million for Made Smarter Yorkshire and Humber, we can give more businesses and communities the tools they need to thrive. “By working across our regions, we can attract more investment for our businesses and ensure that Yorkshire and the Humber can continue to lead the way in manufacturing.”

Plans to revitalise Hull city centre units move foward with property purchase

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Plans to revitalise Hull city centre units move foward with property purchase
Plans to reinvigorate several units in Hull city centre have taken a step forward after a Decision Record agreeing to their sale was published. Hull City Council has facilitated Prospect 2024 LTD’s purchase of 41-79 King Edward Street and 46-54 Jameson Street. The disposal of council property helps to unlock external capital funding to bring forward new shop fronts as Prospect 2024 LTD aims to make the units more attractive to potential tenants. Plans are also in place to refurbish and convert vacant upper floors of the buildings to residential accommodation. It follows the company’s acquisition of and subsequent investment into The Prospect Centre last year, as well as existing units on King Edward Street near to the former Boots store. A condition of the proposed sale will be that Prospect 2024 LTD must complete a pre-agreed schedule of improvement works to the retail units with an agreed timescale, meaning regeneration will move at pace. Cllr Jackie Dad, deputy leader of the council whose portfolio includes land, property, assets and corporate buildings, said: “This investment from Prospect 2024 LTD is fantastic news for the city centre. “The company has already shown confidence in Hull city centre by purchasing The Prospect Centre last year and is now building on that with the units on King Edward Street and Jameson Street. “The council welcomes the proposed transformation and hope it inspires others in the private sector that Hull is a great place to invest and regenerate.” Prospect 2024 Ltd is part of a group of companies which have purchased and reinvigorated a number of shopping centres in the north of England in recent years, including Packhorse Shopping Centre in Huddersfield and The Ridings Shopping Centre in Wakefield. Zahid Iqbal, Prospect 2024 LTD owner, said: “We have confidence in Hull as a major regional centre. “The work that has been done and is being done by the council and other city centre organisations is really turning Hull into a destination for visitors from further afield. “The number of new developments and new businesses is a testament to this and the ever-growing food scene is instrumental to this. “Hull is really gathering momentum and we are committed to bringing new operators into the city to support this.”

Leeds Bradford Airport celebrates opening of new terminal extension

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Leeds Bradford Airport celebrates opening of new terminal extension
Leeds Bradford Airport has celebrated the opening of its new terminal extension, a milestone in its £100m expansion project, with the mayor of West Yorkshire, Tracy Brabin last week.
CEO Vincent Hodder welcomed notable guests, including Katie White, MP for Leeds North West, and representatives from key organisations such as Leeds City Council, Jet2, Emerald Airlines, Bradford City Council, West Yorkshire Combined Authority, Farrans Construction, the CBI and West & North Yorkshire Chamber of Commerce. The completion of the terminal extension has introduced a modernised arrivals process, including a new baggage reclaim area and an upgraded passport control facility incorporating advanced security technologies, designed to make journeys smoother and more efficient. Passengers will see an 83% increase in seating and a broader food and drink offering, providing travellers with more variety and choice. Vincent Hodder, CEO, Leeds Bradford Airport, said: “It was an honour to have some of our most valued business partners with us to celebrate this historic milestone for LBA. “It has been an incredible journey to get here, and we know our customers are now enjoying a completely new experience from LBA. It’s an exciting time for us too; for our employees, stakeholders and business partners, the opening of this building is a huge achievement for all involved.” Katie White, MP for Leeds North West, said: “This £100 million investment in the airport is a real boost for West Yorkshire. Leeds Bradford is where so many people start their holidays, visit family, or travel for work. “They deserve a smooth, welcoming experience. We want the airport to reflect who we are: warm, proud, and open for business. A modern terminal creates good jobs and shows visitors what we’re all about.” Mayor of West Yorkshire, Tracy Brabin said: “It was a pleasure to officially open the new terminal at Leeds Bradford Airport and see the improvements they’ve made for passengers. “West Yorkshire is thriving and I am delighted to have a new, welcoming gateway that allows more people to enjoy all our region has to offer.” Work on Phase 2 of the project has begun focusing on refurbishing the existing terminal to further improve passenger experience and modernise existing terminal infrastructure.

Step forward for plans to transform Wakefield city centre

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Step forward for plans to transform Wakefield city centre
Plans to transform Wakefield city centre are moving forward as the Council is set to agree terms with Muse, the Strategic Regeneration Partner for Wakefield. This is the first stage of work to accelerate the delivery of the city’s regeneration plans. It will lead to new proposals being developed for the Cathedral Quarter and Borough Road, which are the first two elements of ambitious plans with further phases to follow.

Cllr Denise Jeffery, leader of Wakefield Council, said: “We want to attract more people to live, work, and visit Wakefield city centre, taking advantage of our tremendous potential. “Building on the projects we already have planned, we are focusing on creating more high-quality, affordable homes to promote city centre living. On increasing footfall and the amount of time people spend in our city to help businesses to thrive. On enhancing our leisure offer and the quality of our buildings. And on taking advantage of our unrivalled connectivity – including to Leeds and London – promoting Wakefield’s fantastic location and transport links.

“This is all about looking forward and investing in our city now so that people and businesses have more reasons to come into our city centre. And future generations can be proud to call the Wakefield district home.”

Cllr Jack Hemingway, deputy leader of Wakefield Council and cabinet member for regeneration and economic growth, said: “Getting these plans right from the outset is really important. We’re aiming to make it easier to get around the city and improve access to key places like Wakefield Waterfront. To create more green spaces for people to enjoy. And to plan for the future of our economy, getting the balance right between retail and leisure and attracting good quality jobs. “That’s why we’re working with Muse – who have a great track record of delivering transformational regeneration projects across the country. By working in partnership we can drive forward ambitious plans more quickly and on a bigger scale. And make sure we talk to our local communities every step of the way so that plans reflect what you want from our city centre.”

Wakefield Council will be working in partnership with Muse to set a strategy that will transform the city centre. The work will consider new public realm at Cathedral Square, how to increase green space, bringing new homes into the city, increasing leisure footfall, and improving connectivity across key areas of the city. Simon Dew, development director at Muse, said: “Wakefield is a city ready for its next chapter – and we’re excited to be part of the team helping to unlock its potential. The developments at Cathedral Quarter and Borough Road will drive real economic growth, attract new investment, and create the kind of homes, jobs, and public spaces that support thriving local communities. “With decades of experience delivering regeneration that lasts, and extends beyond bricks and mortar, we’re looking forward to working closely with Wakefield Council to realise our shared ambition. “The Partnership’s plans are truly transformative and will help shape a city centre that’s greener, better connected, and full of opportunity for residents across Wakefield and the wider borough. “We’re proud to bring our placemaking expertise to this partnership and look forward to collaborating not only with council, local people and businesses, but with the wider network of regional stakeholders who are playing a vital role in shaping the future of this great city.” Other existing plans include a hotel on the old Westgate Station site and the delivery of new housing in the Kirkgate area. Demolition of the Wilkinsons unit and small number of units on Kirkgate is planned for late 2025. Cllr Jeffery added: “Wakefield has an incredibly exciting future ahead and our work with Muse is going to bring this ambitious vision to life and benefit everyone who lives and works in our great city.” Detailed proposals will be considered by Cabinet later this year, with all plans subject to public consultation.

Doncaster cybersecurity firm snapped up

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Doncaster cybersecurity firm snapped up

Limerston Capital has acquired Doncaster-based DigitalXRAID, a managed security service provider (MSSP).

It’s the second deal in two months for the private equity firm, following the acquisition of CyberCrowd in May, as it looks to create one of the UK’s trusted leaders in cyber security and related digital forensic services.

The new acquisition scales the group’s existing cyber consultancy, penetration testing and incident response solutions whilst also strengthening the SOC offering and other managed services.

Joao Rosa, founding partner of Limerston Capital, said: “It is great to have completed a further acquisition for our cyber security platform so soon, keeping the momentum going to create a leading offering across the UK. We look forward to working with Rick and Scott to further grow the DigitalXRAID business and the wider group as a whole.”

Rick Jones, CEO of DigitalXRAID, said: “We’re thrilled to be joining forces with Limerston Capital, whose vision and values align closely with ours.

“This partnership marks an exciting new chapter for DigitalXRAID, and one that will enable us to accelerate our growth, enhance our innovation in cybersecurity, and extend the range of services we can offer to our clients. We look forward to working closely with the other businesses in the Group to unlock new opportunities and deliver even greater value to our customers.”

Plans approved for UK’s largest independent bookshop in York

April Lara
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Plans approved for UK’s largest independent bookshop in York

Plans to transform a historic York building into the UK’s largest independent bookshop have received approval, despite concerns over the potential impact on the building’s heritage. Topping and Company Booksellers, which operates other stores in cities such as Bath and Edinburgh, will convert the Grade II-listed building on Museum Street into a bookshop that will house around 75,000 books.

The decision, made by the City of York Council’s planning committee, comes after earlier objections regarding the addition of a mezzanine floor. Council officers had expressed concerns that this would alter the building’s original layout, but these were overruled due to the public benefits of the project, including the creation of approximately 30 new jobs.

The building, which dates back to 1860 and was originally home to York’s Poor Law Union, has stood vacant for several years. Topping and Company plans to open the store in autumn 2025, with events already lined up to take place in the space.

While some conservation groups raised objections, local support was strong, with several public comments backing the plans. The new store is seen as a way to revive a historically significant building and bring new life to the area.

Tees Valley mayor rejects calls to franchise bus services

April Lara
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Tees Valley mayor rejects calls to franchise bus services

Tees Valley Mayor Ben Houchen has dismissed proposals to franchise local bus services, reinforcing his stance against raising taxes to fund changes to the region’s transport network.

The mayor’s refusal comes after Middlesbrough Council passed a motion calling for an end to bus deregulation. This system currently allows private companies to control bus routes, timetables, and fares, which has led to concerns over service quality. Labour councillor David Branson, who introduced the motion, argued that ending deregulation would give local authorities the power to improve services, particularly for vulnerable communities like Stainton and Thornton, where residents face difficulty accessing key locations like James Cook hospital.

In response, Houchen criticised the franchising proposal, stating it could lead to the transfer of significant taxpayer funds to large private companies. He also questioned the financial viability of the plan, emphasising that the region’s recent £1bn transport funding allocation could only be used for infrastructure, not operating services.

While Houchen remains open to alternative proposals, he remains opposed to any model that would result in higher taxes for local residents.

Tourism brings South Yorkshire £3.7bn in economic benefits

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Tourism brings South Yorkshire £3.7bn in economic benefits
The latest visitor figures released by South Yorkshire Local Visitor Economy Partnership show significant growth across the region. An estimated 36.3 million tourism visits were made to South Yorkshire in 2024 bringing a £3.7 billion boost to the region’s visitor economy. This included 32.3 million tourism visits made by day visitors, showing a 5% increase on the previous year, and a 10.5% increase since 2022. Visitors staying in the region were estimated to have spent 9.4m nights in local accommodation. The data commissioned via the South Yorkshire Local Visitor Economy Partnership and processed by Global Tourism Solution’s STEAM Report, also revealed that visitor activity and spend supports more than 32,101 full time equivalent jobs locally, making it a key sector within the region. Sarah McLeod, chair of the South Yorkshire Local Visitor Economy Partnership, said: “The STEAM data is invaluable for us a partnership and for the wider visitor economy as it clearly highlights the vital role of this sector in South Yorkshire. “By working collaboratively, we can drive sustainable growth, ensuring that—now more than ever—we encourage visitors to stay longer and spend more with our local businesses.” South Yorkshire’s mayor, Oliver Coppard, said: “We are home to an incredible array of culture, creativity and character. From world-class festivals and iconic sporting events to museums that tell our story and music that’s known around the world – we are a place that inspires. “Our heritage and culture don’t just enrich our lives and shape who we are – they drive our economy too. With a £3.7billion boost and over 32,000 jobs supported, the impact of arts, culture, and tourism is clear: when we invest in our people our places and our stories, we create growth and opportunity, and we build hope.”

Huddersfield software firm hits milestone £2bn of customer orders processed

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Huddersfield software firm hits milestone £2bn of customer orders processed
Huddersfield-based Software as a Service (SaaS) business, Adventoris, is marking a major milestone for its B2B ecommerce solution, SwiftCloud, having processed over £2bn worth of orders for its clients across the globe. As well as this achievement, Adventoris has welcomed a number of new clients on board, including Amathus Drinks Plc, a family-owned drinks importer, distributor and specialist retailer; CRP (Corrosion Resistant Products), a manufacturer and stockist of Fluoropolymer PTFE/PFA-lined piping and equipment; Laroma, a beauty and fragrance specialist; and Valley Industrial Products, a janitorial and maintenance product supplier. The firm’s e-commerce platform, SwiftCloud, now has over 110k registered users across the UK – a 129 per cent rise since March 2022. Monthly user orders through the platform have also increased by 87 per cent in the same time frame, marking a distinct shift of wholesalers and B2B retailers moving to digitised sales tactics. CEO of Adventoris, James Clarkson, said: “This is a significant achievement for SwiftCloud and it is a huge credit to the entire team for making this happen. Being able to deliver such amazing results for our clients to boost their sales and help them to improve efficiencies and processes is why we do what we do. “We are excited to continue developing the SwiftCloud platform this year, incorporating more AI assisted features to improve efficiency and user experience as we growth the offering for our clients.”

Inflation sees June jump

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Inflation sees June jump
Inflation ticked up in June, according to new figures from the Office for National Statistics (ONS). Measured by the Consumer Prices Index (CPI), inflation was stronger than expected at 3.6% in the 12 months to June, up from 3.4% in the 12 months to May. On a monthly basis, CPI rose by 0.3% in June 2025, compared with a rise of 0.1% in June 2024. Transport, particularly motor fuels, made the largest upward contribution to the change. Core inflation, meanwhile, which takes out volatile factors like energy, food, alcohol and tobacco to give a clear picture of underlying trends, came in at 3.7% in the 12 months to June, up from 3.5% in the 12 months to May.
Martin Sartorius, principal economist, CBI, said: “June’s stronger-than-expected inflation print will raise concerns that recent price pressures – driven by higher household energy prices and the passthrough of increased employment costs – could potentially re-entrench inflation in the economy. “While we still expect the Bank of England’s Monetary Policy Committee to continue gradually cutting rates, today’s upside inflation surprise means its August decision will be finely balanced. Underlying price pressures show signs of easing as the labour market cools, which should support a rate cut. However, some members of the MPC will be wary of loosening too quickly and, consequently, risk inflation remaining above target for longer.”
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