SIG reports steady performance despite market challenges

April Lara
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SIG reports steady performance despite market challenges

SIG Plc has reported a solid performance for the first half of the year, despite ongoing challenges in the construction market. For the six months to June 30, the Sheffield-based supplier saw a modest increase in like-for-like sales, up by 1% year on year to £1.304 billion. Like-for-like volumes also grew by 2%. However, revenues fell by 1%, impacted by working days, exchange rates, and branch closures.

The company posted a 31% increase in underlying operating profit, rising to £15.4 million from £11.7 million. Underlying EBITDA also improved to £54.1 million, up from £51.6 million. Despite this, SIG’s net assets decreased by £31.7 million, standing at £148.1 million at the end of June.

While demand across SIG’s markets remains below historical levels, the company’s UK Interiors and Roofing businesses have performed well, with both segments showing notable improvements. The German and French businesses are also maintaining resilience, albeit in tough market conditions.

The firm is maintaining its 2025 outlook, citing the ongoing implementation of strategic and operational changes. SIG also confirmed that Pim Vervaat will take over as CEO and Chair designate on October 1, following Gavin Slark’s resignation in May. Vervaat will eventually transition to the role of Chair in 18 months.

Town centre transformation continues in Grimsby

Tess Egginton
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Town centre transformation continues in Grimsby
The transformation of Grimsby town centre is continuing as work starts next week (11 August) to clear a site on Osborne Street. The plan is to use the 1.6 acre site to deliver a transport hub which connects with the railway station, encouraging public transport use and supporting the wider Grimsby Town Centre regeneration ambitions. Stage one of the work will see the demolition of the existing units between Rejuvadent and Racks, alongside ground clearance. This stage will take approximately eight weeks to complete. The old units will be taken down piece by piece, in a similar way to the work at Freshney Place. This will be done by contractors, UDCS Demolition Ltd from the car park side of the building. Hoardings will be put up alongside the main road while the demolition is happening, and also at the rear of the unit in Garden Street Car Park. This will take out a section of the car park while the work is on the ground. The businesses on Osborne St will all be open as usual during the works. Once the demolition is complete, the hoardings will be moved back towards the old building line and the pathway re-opened. The project will then move into the design stage, which will include consultation with stakeholders and the wider public. As part of this process, an initial public survey has been launched to gather views on the importance of various facilities that could be included in the proposed transport hub.

Sheffield-based engineering firm accelerates growth with £1.4m debt funding

April Lara
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Sheffield-based engineering firm accelerates growth with £1.4m debt funding

Sheffield-based bridge engineering specialist EKSPAN has secured £1.4 million in debt financing to support its expansion plans. This marks the largest loan from NPIF II – Mercia Debt Finance, managed as part of The Northern Powerhouse Investment Fund II.

The company, established over 30 years ago, has been an independent entity since 2023 following a management buy-out. EKSPAN provides a full range of services, including structural repairs, diagnostics, refurbishments, and bridge bearing solutions. It operates as a principal contractor, subcontractor, and supplier, with a team of 52 employees.

The firm has played a pivotal role in high-profile UK infrastructure projects, including the glass walkway at London Bridge and the M25 Gade Valley Viaduct. The company’s growth plans focus on expanding its engineering capabilities, with an aim to increase turnover by 50% over the next three years. Additionally, EKSPAN intends to strengthen its position in the market by expanding its in-house manufacturing facilities.

The funding will allow EKSPAN to invest in its Sheffield base and accelerate its development, capitalising on the growing infrastructure opportunities across the UK.

Max Angerer, managing director of EKSPAN, said: “Securing this funding is a significant milestone for EKSPAN and comes at exactly the right time in our journey. Since returning to independent ownership, we’ve been focused on building a dynamic, highly skilled team and investing in our in-house manufacturing to set us apart in the market. “This support from NPIF II will allow us to accelerate our growth plans, expand our capabilities here in Sheffield and strengthen our position as the leading independent bridge engineering specialist in the North. Our goal is to increase turnover and continue delivering some of the UK’s most challenging and innovative bridge projects.” Andy Tyas of Mercia Debt added: “EKSPAN has been renowned for its bridge engineering expertise for over 30 years. Max and the team have built a strong learning culture and created a fresh impetus for growth. As the UK embarks on a fresh era of infrastructure delivery, this funding will help them to take advantage of the opportunities ahead.” Hart Shaw Corporate Finance in Sheffield office provided fundraising advice to EKSPAN.

University of Hull partners with insurance company to innovate flood protection solutions for businesses

Tess Egginton
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University of Hull partners with insurance company to innovate flood protection solutions for businesses
The University of Hull and RSA Insurance are partnering to innovate new flood resilience solutions and help protect businesses from rising flood risk.

Extreme weather and the risk of major flooding events are on the rise in the UK. Property level flood resilience (PFR) measures – such as flood doors and smart air bricks – are available to property owners, but adoption remains limited.

RSA Insurance, an Intact company, will partner with the University of Hull’s Energy and Environment Institute (EEI) to measure the effectiveness of PFR in various scenarios, support their adoption, and help individuals, businesses and communities adapt to a changing climate.

Although many properties face flood risk, commercial properties present additional challenges such as accessibility, security doors, and high traffic, which are not addressed by existing PFR products. The research will explore these issues and work to identify flood resilience solutions that meet the needs of business operations.

The partnership will also facilitate the creation of evidence-based tools to help businesses assess and manage their flood risk more effectively.

Professor Fiona Matthews, pro-vice-chancellor for research, said: “Flood resilience is a key strategic area of expertise at the University of Hull. This partnership marks a significant step towards innovative flood risk management solutions that are crucial for addressing contemporary environmental challenges.

“Our collaboration will allow us to translate research findings into practical actions that businesses can take to protect their properties from flooding.”

The work will be led by Stuart McLelland, professor of Water Science and lead researcher for the Total Environment Simulator (TES) experimental facility.

Professor McLelland said: “This is an exciting opportunity to work with RSA to build on our expertise in flood resilience and improve understanding of how property-level measures can be used to reduce flood risk.

“Together we will look at opportunities for product innovation, so that individuals and organisations can take appropriate steps to reduce their flood risk, promoting resilience in the face of more frequent flooding.”

Alison Gardner, head of UK&I social impact and ESG, RSA Insurance, an Intact company, said: “As climate change contributes to more intense and frequent flooding, the need for adaptation has never been more urgent. It’s not enough to respond to extreme weather, we must prepare for it.

“This research plays a vital role in building the evidence base we need to understand what works, where, and for whom. By focusing on commercial properties, which face unique challenges, we can help shape practical tools and solutions that support a more resilient future for businesses and communities alike.”

Yorkshire and Humber sees rise in business start-ups – but insolvency-related activity climbs

Tess Egginton
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Yorkshire and Humber sees rise in business start-ups – but insolvency-related activity climbs
The number of new businesses being set up in Yorkshire and the Humber rose for the second month in a row in July, despite a simultaneous increase in local insolvency-related activity, according to new analysis from R3, the UK’s insolvency and restructuring trade body. R3’s latest figures, based on data from Creditsafe, show that business start-ups across Yorkshire and the Humber rose by 4% in July compared to the previous month. The region followed a UK-wide trend, with start-up numbers increasing in every part of the country apart from the East Midlands (-1%) and Northern Ireland (-2%). However, the region also recorded a 7% rise in insolvency-related activity, which includes the appointment of liquidators and administrators and creditors’ meetings. This uptick mirrors trends seen across the North of England, with the North East seeing a 49% jump and the North West a 5% rise over the same period. In contrast, insolvency-related activity fell by 62% in Northern Ireland and 23% in Wales. Elsewhere in England, it rose in East Anglia (24%), Greater London (16%), and the South East (13%). Dave Broadbent, chair of R3 in Yorkshire and a partner at Begbies Traynor in York and Teesside, said: “It’s encouraging to see a steady increase in start-up activity in Yorkshire and the Humber, which suggests there’s confidence among entrepreneurs and an appetite to bring new products and services to market. This resilience and creativity are real strengths of the regional economy. “However, the simultaneous rise in insolvency-related activity shows that many existing businesses are still under significant pressure. The combination of high interest rates, persistent inflation in some sectors, and ongoing supply chain issues is making it hard for firms to maintain healthy cashflow. For businesses operating on tight margins, especially in retail, hospitality and construction, the current economic climate remains incredibly tough.” He added: “We’re also seeing the impact of pandemic-era support tapering off, with some companies now facing repayments or grappling with legacy debts they can no longer service. While some businesses are adapting and finding new routes to growth, others are reaching a tipping point. “That’s why early advice is so important. Whether it’s cashflow forecasting, renegotiating payment terms, or more formal restructuring support, seeking help early gives businesses the best chance of recovery and survival.”

URBAN Fresh Burgers & Fries partners with Exultant Group for London expansion

April Lara
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URBAN Fresh Burgers & Fries partners with Exultant Group for London expansion

URBAN Fresh Burgers & Fries has entered a strategic partnership with Mizan Syed’s Exultant Group to spearhead its national expansion, starting with Greater London. This move aligns with URBAN’s plans for growth, as it looks to scale its fresh, customisable burger brand beyond its South Yorkshire base.

Syed, an experienced operator with over 20 years in franchising, will open the first London location later this year. He brings with him a portfolio of established brands, including Pret A Manger and Pizza Hut, and a strong reputation for operational expertise. URBAN Fresh Burgers & Fries, known for its focus on high-quality, fresh ingredients and a modern, inviting dining experience, is set to benefit from Syed’s experience in scaling brands in the UK market.

The partnership reflects URBAN’s commitment to sustainable growth through long-term, value-driven collaborations. The brand, which launched in 2017, offers a menu that includes 100% fresh British beef, chicken, and vegetarian options, all made to order, along with hand-cut fries. The company’s flexible franchise model allows for halal-certified locations, expanding its appeal to a diverse audience.

URBAN’s ambition to grow nationally is built on a strong foundation of product quality and customer experience, with plans for further expansion after the success of its first London site.

Immanuel College boosts sixth form capacity with £4m expansion

April Lara
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Immanuel College boosts sixth form capacity with £4m expansion

Immanuel College in Bradford is expanding its sixth form facilities with a £4m project that will increase student capacity by 100, bringing the total to 330 students by September. The expansion is a response to growing demand and oversubscription, with the school among 42 education providers eligible for post-16 Government funding.

Property consultancy Eddisons provided comprehensive support for the project, acting as technical adviser for the Bradford Diocesan Academies Trust, from securing funding to overseeing design, planning, and construction management. The college’s new building will feature six classrooms, a social study area, a common room, and a dining space. Sustainability is a key focus, with solar panels, LED lighting, and enhanced insulation incorporated into the design.

The project also includes improvements to the school’s sports facilities, including a levelled area for a Sports England-compliant football pitch. Additional outdoor accessible space has been created for students.

Construction began after receiving planning approval in 2023, and the new facilities are set to provide a modern, sustainable learning environment for the expanding student cohort.

Yorkshire chamber plans trade mission to Saudi Arabia and Bahrain

April Lara
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Yorkshire chamber plans trade mission to Saudi Arabia and Bahrain

The West and North Yorkshire Chamber will lead a trade mission to Saudi Arabia and Bahrain in November, continuing its strategy of fostering international business ties. The mission will take place from November 9-14 and aims to expand trade partnerships in these key Middle Eastern markets.

Building on the success of previous missions to regions such as the USA, UAE, Kenya, Sri Lanka, and Pakistan, the Chamber plans to facilitate high-level networking, economic forums, and industry-specific roundtable discussions. The events will offer businesses in Yorkshire a chance to meet potential partners and explore growth opportunities within these expanding economies.

The itinerary for the mission is still under development by the Chamber’s team, with collaborations planned alongside Leeds Bradford Airport, HSBC, the British Embassies in Saudi Arabia and Bahrain, and the British Chamber of Commerce Bahrain. The mission will be self-funded, emphasising the Chamber’s commitment to driving regional business interests on a global scale.

Plans for new ‘container-style’ leisure attraction take step forward at Leeds Kirkgate Market

Tess Egginton
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Plans for new ‘container-style’ leisure attraction take step forward at Leeds Kirkgate Market
Plans for a new ‘container-style’ leisure attraction at Leeds Kirkgate Market have taken a step forward.
Leeds City Council confirmed STACK in March last year as its preferred operator for the proposed venue, which would offer a mix of food, drink and entertainment in part of the market’s outdoor trading area. Now, following further design and preparatory work, the council and STACK have signed a formal lease agreement. This means that, subject to licensing and planning approvals, the start of construction on the scheme could be just months away. New details have also been revealed about what people can expect from the attraction, which STACK intends to build from repurposed shipping containers. Under current plans, STACK Leeds would be spread across two floors, with a central plaza seating area covered by a ‘stretch tent’ providing shelter, when needed. The plaza would be home to two large digital screens as well as a stage that would be used for live music and other entertainment. Ten street food outlets, six bars and a coffee shop, meanwhile, would serve up a range of eating and drinking options for customers. A premises licence application has already been submitted for the scheme, with a planning application expected to follow shortly. If both are approved, then it is hoped building work could start in early 2026 with a view to the venue opening later in the year. Construction costs would be met by STACK, with rental payments generating a new income stream for the council. The development – which is expected to create 160 jobs – would, it is anticipated, increase footfall and broaden the customer base for the whole market site. The outdoor trading area currently has room for a total of 185 stalls, with around 85 of those being filled on its busiest days. Should STACK Leeds secure the necessary licensing and planning approvals, the number of pitches would be reduced and the freed-up space used as the location for the scheme. The reconfigured area would still be able to accommodate all existing traders – as well as new arrivals. Councillor Jonathan Pryor, Leeds City Council’s deputy leader and executive member for economy, transport and sustainable development, said: “The plans for STACK Leeds are really exciting and underline our ongoing commitment to backing and investing in Leeds Kirkgate Market. “I’m delighted, therefore, that the project has now reached this important milestone, thanks to a great deal of hard work from both the council and STACK. Together we are determined to ensure that the new venue is very much part of the market, rather than a standalone attraction. “Every person heading to STACK Leeds will also be a potential shopper, whether that’s on the day or during a return visit. Some may even start making regular trips to the market for the first time, having previously been unaware of the recent retail improvements there. “It is this kind of new custom – combined with the much-appreciated support of existing shoppers – that will help the site’s many and varied businesses prosper for years to come.” Neill Winch, STACK’s chief executive officer, said: “We’re delighted to be taking this important step towards bringing STACK to Leeds. This is a city with incredible energy and a proud sense of community, which makes it a perfect location for our concept. “While STACK continues to grow across the UK, our focus remains on creating spaces that celebrate local culture, support independent businesses and provide somewhere people can come together to enjoy great food, drink and live entertainment. “Importantly, our offer will complement the fantastic outdoor and indoor market by attracting a new audience and, by opening seven days a week from early morning until late, we’ll help drive footfall and support the market’s wider ecosystem. “We’re excited to work with Leeds City Council to deliver a destination that adds real value to Kirkgate Market and the city centre.”

Major letting at Port of Hull welcomes chemical giant

Tess Egginton
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Major letting at Port of Hull welcomes chemical giant
Associated British Ports (ABP) has let a substantial unit in Hull to Mitsubishi Chemical UK Limited, part of the global Mitsubishi Chemical Group. The letting involves 158,000 sq ft storage, with 53,000 sq ft of canopy at King George Dock. It is in a prime strategic location overlooking the Humber Estuary and near Hull Container Terminal (HCT), allowing for the seamless import of cargoes. Andrew Dawes, regional director of the Humber ports, said: “We are delighted to welcome Mitsubishi Chemical UK to our site and to support them as they continue to expand their operations. This partnership reflects our ongoing commitment to fostering business growth and delivering flexible, high-quality industrial spaces that meet the evolving needs of our customers.” Michael Curtis, PUMA lead construction delivery manager, Mitsubishi Chemical Group, said: “Leasing the new shed at the Port of Hull marks a pivotal step in our long-term commitment to Hull, Saltend, and the wider Humber region. “This expansion not only supports the doubling of our production capacity but also strengthens our ability to meet global demand. It’s a strategic investment that aligns with our growth ambitions and reinforces our role in the region’s industrial future.” The facility is to support Mitsubishi and their contractor Fluor Corporation for the SoarnoL ethylene vinyl alcohol copolymer (EVOH) facility development at Saltend Chemicals Park in Hull.
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