Lincoln firm starts work on boathouse project in Nottinghamshire
One-day event examines latest developments in cooling for machining
Government prepares to out ‘rip-off’ road fuel price retailers
Today I’m putting into action the CMA’s recommendations and standing by consumers – we’ll shine a light on rip-off retailers to drive down prices and make sure they’re held to account by putting into law new powers to increase transparency.”
West Yorkshire SMEs get advice on energy cost-cutting measures
The scheme will build on previous sustainability support through the Mayor’s Resource Efficient Business programme, which helped 360 West Yorkshire businesses save an average of £11,500 per year on their energy bills.
Lowe Engineering Limited, a Leeds-based power plant equipment supplier, was given a £5,000 grant last year, which was used to fit the warehouse and offices with modern LED lighting, helping to save the business up to £2,000 per year.
Operations Director Graeme Walker said: “Improving the lighting throughout our premises had been on our “to do” list for some time but, due to the large initial expenses and slow cost-saving recovery, it was always at the back of the queue when it came to annual building repairs and improvements.
“However, with the onset of higher energy prices coupled with the Mayor’s support, we were encouraged to install LED lighting throughout the building, and recovered our 50% of the expenses within a short period of time.
“It is safe to say that without the scheme in place, this improvement would still be on the “to do” list.”
Businesses are encouraged to find out more about the support on our Sustainability webpage.
Arco scoops Yorkshire Family Business of the Year Award
Survey shows major jobs boost for Yorkshire & the Humber manufacturers
A new report released today from Make UK, the manufacturers’ organisation, and accountancy and business advisory firm BDO LLP, shows that manufacturing remains vital to the success of the economy in Yorkshire & the Humber, with the sector accounting for more than 15% (15.4%) of the region’s output in 2022, substantially ahead of the national average of just under 10%.
This is a significant increase on the share of output from 2021 (14.6%) and is reflected in a major boost for manufacturing jobs across the region with employment having jumped from 278,000 in 2021 to 316,000 in 2022.
This has been largely driven by the Food and Drink sector which accounts for almost a fifth of manufacturing output in the region (16.2%) and has benefitted significantly from the re-opening of hospitality during 2022. This is followed by the manufacture of chemicals (15.4%) and Metal Products, largely steel, at 13.9%.
The region is also a strong export performer with its share of exports going to the EU (worth £11billion) remaining at 57%, well above the UK average of 52%. This makes Yorkshire & the Humber the second most dependent English region on the EU market, but leaves the region more exposed to new trading arrangements with the bloc than other English regions and devolved nations.
The next largest destination is North America, accounting for 17% of goods exports, closely followed by Asia & Oceania which accounts for 12% of goods exports.
Dawn Huntrod, Make UK director for the North, said: “Industry remains critical to the growth of the Yorkshire & Humber economy, providing high value, high skill jobs and aiding the process of levelling up.
“To build on this position we need a national industrial strategy which encompasses local growth strategies which fit with the priorities and strengths of the region including infrastructure, innovation and skills in particular.”
Steve Talbot, head of manufacturing at BDO in Yorkshire, added: “The manufacturing jobs growth we have seen in the region across the last year is testament to the resilience of the sector as a whole.
“Manufacturing companies across Yorkshire & the Humber have had to overcome the multiple challenges thrown up by Brexit, shortages in skilled labour, pandemic-related supply chain delays and the huge energy price rises we have seen following the Russian invasion of Ukraine.
“While everyone is hoping for some respite, the headwinds show no sign of abating. With high inflation and interest rates continuing to rise, manufacturers will need to remain alert, responsive and resilient in the face of any future geopolitical or economic shocks.”
Independent labour review urges action to help farmers get necessary workers
Centrica boss calls for reform of energy sector pricing
August’s alcoholic drink tax reforms will slash duty payable by pubs
University of Bradford signs as shirt sponsor with Bradford City
The University of Bradford is to be the back-of-shirt sponsor for Bradford City AFC for at least three seasons.