Leeds-based consulting firm, Q5, welcomes new chief financial officer

Tess Egginton
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Leeds-based consulting firm, Q5, welcomes new chief financial officer
Organisational health consulting firm, Q5, has welcomed Amanda Lewis as its new chief financial officer. This strategic addition to the leadership team marks a significant step forward as Q5 continues its global growth journey. Amanda brings over two decades of experience as a transformative finance leader, and was most recently the chief financial officer at The Chemistry Group. She helped the business through an M&A process, attracting top-tier talent to help move the company into its next phase of growth. She also played a key role in fostering a culture of data transparency, facilitating strategic insights, improving operational efficiency, and aligning cost structures with financial targets. Now, as chief financial officer at Q5, Amanda is responsible for shaping and executing the company’s strategy of doubling in size by 2030 in a sustainable way. Q5 has doubled in size between 2020 and 2025, and has grown from a footprint of four offices to nine. Amanda will work closely with the leadership team to achieve this goal, driving growth in the Middle East, North America, and Australia. Reflecting on her new role, Amanda said: “I am thrilled to join the Q5 team and be part of an award-winning firm that is helping to build better businesses across the world. I’m passionate about driving client and partner success, while also coaching and mentoring a team to create a high-performing environment. I look forward to the growth we can achieve together.” Olly Purnell, managing partner at Q5, added: “It’s wonderful to have Amanda on board. She inherits an excellent Finance team, but will bring experience and commercial finance nous and leadership that will hopefully enable us to be more global in the way we approach things.”

Director promotion for personal tax expert at Saffery

Tess Egginton
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Director promotion for personal tax expert at Saffery
Longstanding Leeds-based personal tax expert, Simon Armitage, has been promoted to director at chartered accounting and business advisory firm, Saffery. Simon has spent the past two decades advising clients on all types of personal tax issues and worked in London before relocating to Leeds in 2007. He joined Saffery’s private client and personal tax team in 2018. From the firm’s Wellington Place office in Leeds city centre, he now specialises in advising entrepreneurs and high net worth individuals, as well as their families, on all types of tax related issues. These can include family investment companies, trusts, share schemes, business structuring, succession planning and tax reliefs. In addition, a large part of Simon’s work now involves advising on inheritance tax after Chancellor Rachel Reeves delivered the new Labour government’s first budget last October. Sally Appleton, partner in Saffery’s Yorkshire office, said: “Simon joined our team more than six years ago and he’s extremely popular with both our clients and his colleagues, who both appreciate his first-class advice, expertise and ability to simplify issues that are often complex. “Crucially, he’s adept at winning new clients and identifying areas where we can support existing clients, thanks to his thorough understanding of everything related to personal tax, so there’s no doubt he thoroughly deserves this promotion.”

Wholesale craft bakery Artisan Bakes cooks up expansion at Flanshaw Industrial Estate

Tess Egginton
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Wholesale craft bakery Artisan Bakes cooks up expansion at Flanshaw Industrial Estate
Towngate PLC, the commercial and industrial property specialist, has secured a 12-year tenancy for Artisan Bakes Ltd, a wholesale craft bakery based in Wakefield, to support the company’s ongoing expansion. Previously located at Sovereign House, Trinity Business Park, Artisan Bakes now occupies Unit 1, Flanshaw Industrial Estate, Flanshaw Way. The 6,366 sq ft modern warehouse/industrial property provides close proximity to Wakefield City Centre and junction 40 of the M1 motorway, making it an ideal base for the business’s growing logistics. It also features a shared secure yard, ancillary offices, parking, and an eaves height of 6.18 metres. The relocation enables Artisan Bakes to scale production and better serve its customer base. Tom Lamb, property director at Towngate PLC, said: “It’s been a pleasure to assist Artisan with its expansion plans in the region. Flanshaw Industrial Estate is a highly sought-after business hub, and its proximity to key motorway networks will be an invaluable asset for the bakery as it continues to expand. I look forward to visiting and sampling a cake or two!” Jonathan Jacob, senior surveyor at GV Property Consultants, added: “This unit provides a rare food manufacturing facility in a strategic location, and we are pleased to have acted on behalf of Towngate to accommodate Artisan Bakes’ bespoke requirements.” David Hardwick, managing director of Artisan Bakes, said: “We’re excited to start this new chapter as we celebrate a decade of baking excellence. The relocation represents a significant step in our expansion and will help us truly enhance our production capabilities. Towngate’s support has been invaluable in finding the perfect space, accommodating our needs as we continue to innovate and grow.”

Yorkshire businesses see drop in financial distress in early 2025

April Lara
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Yorkshire businesses see drop in financial distress in early 2025

The number of financially distressed businesses in Yorkshire fell in the first quarter of 2025, according to new data from Begbies Traynor’s Red Flag Alert report.

Between January and March, around 40,000 businesses in the region experienced significant or early signs of distress — a 12% drop compared to the previous quarter, equivalent to nearly 6,000 fewer businesses. However, financial distress remains higher than it was a year ago, up 6% compared to Q1 2024.

This regional trend reflected wider national patterns. Across the UK, business distress fell by 12% compared to the final quarter of 2024 but rose by 4% year-on-year, affecting a total of 579,000 companies.

Several key sectors in Yorkshire showed improvements both quarterly and annually. Food and drink production, industrial transportation and logistics, manufacturing, and printing and packaging all recorded declines in distress levels. These improvements align with reports of modest economic growth and easing inflation in the UK during the early part of the year.

By contrast, certain sectors faced growing pressures. Hotels and accommodation saw a 21% year-on-year rise in financial distress, while real estate and property services were up 17%. Meanwhile, financial services, travel and tourism, and automotive industries recorded the sharpest quarter-on-quarter improvements, with distress levels dropping by 20%, 19%, and 16% respectively.

The figures were compiled before the introduction of US global trade tariffs in April, a move that could introduce new economic challenges for businesses in Yorkshire and beyond.

Meridian Solar Farm proposals expand as consultation opens

April Lara
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Meridian Solar Farm proposals expand as consultation opens

Plans for the Meridian Solar Farm near Spalding have expanded by around 200 hectares, bringing the total project size to approximately 1,100 hectares. Developer Downing Renewable Developments (DRD) is preparing to submit a planning application later this year and has launched a second public consultation, running until June 8.

Despite the expanded footprint, DRD states that only about 600 hectares would host solar panels, with the remaining land allocated for infrastructure such as cables and battery storage. The solar farm is expected to generate enough electricity to power over 200,000 homes and operate for up to 40 years, if approved. Operations could begin by 2029.

The project’s primary development areas are near Spalding and Crowland, with an additional site east of Sutton St Edmund. DRD is holding three public meetings in May to gather local feedback before finalising its designs. Meanwhile, the Meridian Action Group is opposing the development, arguing that it should be built on brownfield sites to protect agricultural land and food security.

Public consultation events are scheduled at Sutton St Edmund Village Hall (10 May), Crowland Snowden Pavilion (21 May), and Weston Village Hall (22 May).

CorrBoard invests in electric fleet to boost operational sustainability

April Lara
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CorrBoard UK, a privately-owned sheet-feeding specialist based in Scunthorpe, has invested in a fleet of electric clamp trucks and forklifts, alongside a significant expansion of its on-site electric vehicle charging infrastructure.

The business, founded in 2014, manufactures corrugated cardboard and aims to reduce emissions and improve efficiency across its operations. As part of its latest sustainability drive, CorrBoard is replacing its existing forklift fleet with electric models and increasing its number of EV charging points from two to eight.

The company’s investment is intended to support long-term operational cost savings, reduce its carbon footprint, and maintain its position as a leader in sustainable manufacturing in the packaging sector.

CorrBoard operates from a purpose-built facility in North Lincolnshire and supplies corrugated sheet board to packaging manufacturers across the UK.

Grimsby’s Freshney Place redevelopment moves forward with demolition phase

April Lara
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Grimsby’s Freshney Place redevelopment moves forward with demolition phase

Demolition has started at Grimsby’s former Top Town Market site, marking a significant step in the redevelopment of Freshney Place Shopping Centre.

The project, led by North East Lincolnshire Council and managed by Queensberry, aims to transform the site into a mixed-use retail and leisure destination. Plans include a new Parkway multi-screen cinema, a market hall, and a combined food and shopping space.

The redevelopment forms part of a broader investment strategy for Grimsby town centre and is one of the council’s largest investments to date. It is intended to drive additional investment, support existing tenants, and open up opportunities for new businesses.

Preliminary work, including asbestos removal and dismantling mechanical systems, has been completed. Main contractor GMI Construction Group has now commenced structural demolition, progressing the project to its next phase.

Major letting secured at Moor Lane Trading Estate

Tess Egginton
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Major letting secured at Moor Lane Trading Estate
Over 55,000 sq ft of industrial space set in over 3.5 acres at Moor Lane Trading Estate in Sherburn in Elmet, North Yorkshire has been let to Welfare Hire Nationwide Limited. Part of Kelling Group, Welfare Hire is a rental and lease provider of specialist mobile welfare equipment to infrastructure markets including highways, rail and utilities. The deal sees the firm double the size of its operational bases across Yorkshire. Chief Financial Officer at Kelling Group, Matthew Jowett, said: “As our business continues to grow, it was essential to secure a facility that meets our operational demands and allows for future scalability. The Moor Lane Trading Estate site provides the perfect combination of space and accessibility to support our expanding hire services business. “Establishing Welfare Hire’s regional footprint in this dedicated facility also facilitates further growth capacity for its sister company, Access Hire Nationwide Limited, the UK’s leading rental and lease provider of vehicle mounted access platforms for sectors including Telecoms, Street Lighting and Power. “Separating out the two core businesses from our headquarters in Normanton represents a major milestone for the Group. The access business will remain there, whilst this new site is ideal for the welfare division. “We will be investing around £250,000 in the new site to deliver a well-connected and highly secure facility, as well as creating new jobs, and work has already started on site.  This exciting development for Welfare Hire follows on from the opening of a new purpose-built depot in Bristol in 2024 and a regional depot in Scotland in 2023.” The site was brought to the market by the agency division of property consultancy, GV&Co. Associate director of agency at GV&Co, Jonathan Jacob, said: “Moor Lane Trading Estate offers strong credentials to occupiers requiring well connected and cost-effective manufacturing and storage space, and we’re delighted to have facilitated Kelling Group’s expansion there.”

Sleaford hotel to receive £1.8m refurbishment funding

April Lara
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Sleaford hotel to receive £1.8m refurbishment funding

North Kesteven District Council has allocated £1.8m for a comprehensive refurbishment of the Carre Arms Hotel in Sleaford. The council, which acquired the hotel last year, aims to protect a key local asset while driving regeneration in the town.

Renovation work, set to begin shortly, will overhaul the hotel’s exterior, bedrooms, roofs, and reception area, with completion expected within up to two years. The project is funded by the council’s share of local business rates, part of which is reinvested in community initiatives.

Since its purchase for just under £1.5m, the council has focused on expanding the hotel’s business, particularly for weddings, conferences, and events, which have seen significant growth. While initial plans outlined a 10-year timeline for investment, urgent repairs have prompted an accelerated schedule for some work. The outdoor area will also be revamped, including new planting to enhance the venue’s suitability for special events.

Sheffield construction ball returns to raise funds for St Luke’s Hospice

Tess Egginton
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Sheffield construction ball returns to raise funds for St Luke’s Hospice
The Sheffield Charity Construction Ball returns on Friday 6 June to raise vital funds for St Luke’s Hospice. The Sheffield Charity Construction Ball is organised by Arup, HLM Architects and Rider Levett Bucknall (RLB) with the aim of bringing the region’s construction and property sector together and giving back to an important community cause. Over the past 26 years, the Ball has been attended by prominent figures across the property and construction industry and has raised a total of £401,300 for a variety of local causes. It takes place at the Crowne Plaza Royal Victoria Hotel in Sheffield. Past beneficiaries have included Sheffield Children’s Hospital, Weston Park Cancer Charity, Hallam Cash for Kids, The Prince’s Trust and Bluebell Wood. This year’s charity, St Luke’s Hospice, is a leading provider of specialist palliative care for adults with terminal illnesses in Sheffield and the surrounding areas. Matt Sheridan, senior fundraising manager from St Luke’s Hospice, said: “It’s fantastic news that St Luke’s has been chosen as the charity partner for the 2025 Sheffield Charity Construction Ball. “At a time when hospices across the country are facing growing financial challenges, the support of such a prestigious event, championed by so many inspiring organisations across Sheffield’s construction industry, means more than ever. “One of the key aims of this year’s fundraising is to support the purchase of cuddle beds, which give patients and their loved ones the chance to be physically close at moments that truly matter. “This kind of support has a lasting impact, and we are incredibly grateful to be part of this special event.” Since 1971, St Luke’s has supported thousands of patients and their families, delivering compassionate, high-quality care. The hospice is committed to helping people live with dignity, comfort, and choice at the end of life. Matt Summerhill, managing partner for Yorkshire, Humber and the North East for  construction consultancy Rider Levett Bucknall said: “It is wonderful that the Sheffield Charity Construction Ball is supporting St Luke’s Hospice this year. “From my own personal experience when my late wife was under the care of St Luke’s, I know how important to families the cuddle beds will be as they spend their last precious days together. “As always, the focus of the ball is to have fun and celebrate everything that is good about our wonderful industry, but it is also nice to know we are helping those who need it the most.” The event is an opportunity to network with industry leaders, enjoy a three course meal of fine dining and live entertainment from the acclaimed magician Ben Hanlin. A new addition to this year’s event is the Future Professionals Table, where younger professionals can connect and get inspired by like-minded individuals. Matt Summerhill, Delia Harmston and Phil White are the event directors and Kathryn Hind, Claire Lowe and Rebecca Ball have been providing the day to day organisation of the event. Delia Harmston, Sheffield studio director from HLM Architects, said: “It’s always a privilege to be part of such a special event that not only brings together our region’s construction community, but also supports a truly meaningful cause. “St Luke’s Hospice touches so many lives in Sheffield, and this year’s focus on fundraising for cuddle beds is particularly moving. The Ball is a celebration of our industry’s generosity and collaboration, and I’m incredibly proud of the role we play in making it happen.” Phil White, Arup’s Sheffield office leader, said: “We’re proud to have played our part in organising the Sheffield Charity Construction Ball for over a quarter of a century. “The Future Professionals Table is a brilliant opportunity to support the next generation in forging their careers in Sheffield’s built environment community. “We are delighted to be fundraising for St. Luke’s Hospice this year, making a tangible difference by supporting meaningful causes in our city.”
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