- Output volumes fell in the three months to November, at a faster pace than in the quarter to October (weighted balance of -12%, from -6% in the three months to October). Output is expected to rise in the three months to February (+9%).
- Output decreased in 14 out of 17 sub-sectors in the three months to November, with the fall driven by the chemicals, mechanical engineering and metal products sub-sectors.
- Total order books were reported as below “normal” but improved relative to last month (-19% from -27%). The level of order books remained below the long run average (-13%).
- Export order books were also seen as below “normal” in November to the same extent as last month (-27%). This was also below the long-run average (-18%).
- Expectations for average selling price inflation rose in November (+11% from 0% in October) with the balance standing broadly in line with the long-run average (+7%).
- Stocks of finished goods were seen as more than “adequate” in November (+21% from +17% in October), with the balance the highest since August 2020.
Manufacturing output volumes fall, but near-term outlook improves
Manufacturing output volumes fell in the quarter to November, and at a faster pace than in the three months to October, according to the CBI’s latest Industrial Trends Survey (ITS). But the near-term picture is more positive, with manufacturers expecting output volumes to rise modestly in the quarter to February.
Total order books improved relative to last month, while volumes of export order books were unchanged. Both total and export order books were reported as below their long-run averages. Expectations for selling price inflation picked up in November, with prices expected to rise at a rate that is broadly in line with the long-run average. Stock adequacy (for finished goods) was the highest since August 2020.
The survey, based on the responses of 317 manufacturers, found:
Paul joins Finance Yorkshire board in non-exec capacity
Finance Yorkshire has appointed experienced corporate lawyer Paul Trudgill to its board as a non-exec Director to replace Jennie Adams, who served on the Finance Yorkshire board for 15 years.
Paul is a partner in the corporate group in the Sheffield office of Knights. He advises owner-managed business and SME clients in all aspects of company law including mergers and acquisitions, disposals, management buyouts and increasingly employee ownership trust transactions.
He said: “I have been a member of the South Yorkshire professional and business community for more than 30 years and therefore have an informed perspective to bring in terms of Finance Yorkshire’s external environment including in relation to its target market.
“I have considerable experience of transactions involving venture capital (VC) funds, advising investee companies and acting for VC funds in relation to their investments.”
Finance Yorkshire chief exec Alex McWhirter said: “We are delighted to welcome Paul to the Finance Yorkshire board where he will complement our other non-executive directors with his breadth of corporate legal knowledge and expertise. The board acknowledges the time Jennie gave to Finance Yorkshire over many years in which her contribution to our discussions and decision-making was invaluable.”
Two new firms move into Dean Clough at Halifax
Industrial valve engineering and manufacturing company Severn Glocon and Simply Paving have taken space at the Dean Clough complex in Halifax.
Severn Glocon has secured a 2,460 sq ft of office space in Crossley Mill for its new Engineering Centre of Excellence, and Simply Paving has taken a 1,918 sq ft workspace in F Mill.
The Severn Glocon Centre will serve as a hub for advanced engineering projects, fostering collaboration across disciplines and enabling the development of cutting-edge valve technologies that meet the most stringent of industry standards and customer demands.
Jonny Walker, UK Engineering Director, Severn Glocon, said: “We are proud to launch our new Engineering Centre of Excellence at Dean Clough which marks a pivotal moment for Severn Glocon. This facility will be the engine that drives our next phase of innovation, combining industry-leading expertise with the latest technological advancements.
“Our team of highly skilled engineers will have access to the tools and resources they need to push the boundaries of what’s possible in valve design, development, and performance. It’s a significant investment in our people and processes, reinforcing our commitment to engineering excellence.”
The Engineering Centre of Excellence at Dean Clough will play a critical role in Severn Glocon’s training and development programmes, offering a unique environment for upskilling future engineers and deepening expertise across the organisation. It will support the company’s talent pipeline.
Simply Paving is a supplier of Bradstone paving and landscaping products, and a trading division of Aggregate Industries UK Ltd, itself part of global operator, Holcim. Dean Clough becomes the new headquarters for Simply Paving which provides paving products direct to the customer as well as to the trade sector UK-wide.
Jeremy Hall, Chairman and MD at Dean Clough Ltd, said: “We welcome Severn Glocon and Simply Paving to the Dean Clough family. This demonstrates that if we invest in the right environment, we can indeed attract global operators to the thriving town of Halifax as a viable alternative to city centre locations.
“We truly believe that a diverse amenity and cultural experience – as we have at Dean Clough – is so vitally important in creating the environment that people want to come to and work within. This is a key ingredient in attracting major business occupiers, alongside the indisputable carbon benefits that the reuse of historic buildings brings for sustainable practice.
“There is such a vibrant offering on site now at Dean Clough, with a fabulously diverse range of cafes, bars, restaurants, beauty and hair salons, wellbeing centres, therapists, retailers, galleries, event space, a theatre and even an onsite creche. With the enviable combination of landscaped space, engaging public realm, and ample onsite parking, we feel that Dean Clough contributes so much to the overall cultural reputation that Calderdale so richly deserves.”
Hessle firm wins contract for Hull green space refurbishment
Hull City Council has appointed Hessle-based civil engineering firm C.R. Reynolds to continue the extensive refurbishment of Queens Gardens, the city centre’s most iconic green space.
With phase one well under way, the project is now poised to transition into phase two, which will address key safety concerns by rebuilding the north and east boundary walls.
In addition, phase two will focus on improving accessibility with the installation of new ramps and steps, alongside the introduction of sustainable tree planting, new lighting, and street furniture.
Bespoke artwork and enhancements to both soft and hard landscaping will contribute to creating a more welcoming and functional public space.
Queens Gardens, at the heart of Hull, holds significant historical importance and has long been a cherished space for residents and visitors. It will provide a vital link between the Maritime Museum and North End Shipyard, the new home of the Arctic Corsair.
Its condition has deteriorated in recent years, leading to large sections being closed off for safety reasons. The council recognises the need for a sensitive restoration that respects the gardens’ heritage while providing modern amenities for the community.
The project aims to revitalise the gardens as a vital public space that can host major events while preserving the unique character of this beloved area.
Improvements will ensure the gardens are more accessible, visually striking, and environmentally sustainable, further enhancing Hull’s city centre.
Councillor Mike Ross, Leader of Hull City Council, said: “The transformation of Queens Gardens is a key part of our vision for a vibrant and sustainable city centre. This space holds a special place in the hearts of Hull’s residents, and it’s vital that we balance its historical significance with the need for modern improvements.
“We are confident that C.R. Reynolds will deliver a project that not only enhances the usability of Queens Gardens but also respects its heritage. This phase of work is another important step in creating a space that Hull can be proud of for generations to come.”
Yorkshire yarn manufacturer passes control of business to workforce
A yarn manufacturer has become an employee-owned business to preserve the company’s Yorkshire heritage and drive long-term growth.
Founded in 1907 by George Laxton and Gordon Holmes, Laxtons Specialist Yarns has become one of Europe’s leading yarn manufacturers. Headquartered in Baildon, the company has expanded to supply yarns to clients across the UK and over 20 overseas markets.
James Laxton (and his family), fourth generation Owner and Managing Director have passed on full control of the business to its workforce thanks to the creation of an Employee Ownership Trust (EOT).
Management hope the transition into employee ownership will drive the business forward, retaining its culture and Yorkshire identity while putting all 30 employees at the heart of decision making. The EOT also means employees will now hold an indirect stake in the business.
James Laxton, Managing Director since 2001 will continue in his role under the new model, ensuring a smooth transition to employee ownership. Carly Smith (Sales and Marketing Director Designate) and Paulius Ramanauskas (Operations Director Designate) have also been appointed director designates to lead Laxton’s new direction.
Laura Marks and Martin Cooper from the share plans and reward team, alongside Tim Parr, at audit, tax and consulting firm RSM UK advised on the deal, providing structuring and tax advice.
Laura Marks, Associate Director at RSM UK, said: “Working with James and the team, we recognised the importance of finding a solution which supported their long-term ambitions while retaining the company’s Yorkshire history and legacy, as well as preserving its culture for the future.
“The transition to employee ownership reflects the company’s commitment to its people by empowering them to actively contribute to its future. It has been a pleasure to advise the company, and I’m sure it will flourish with the employees sharing in its success.”
James Laxton, Managing Director at Laxtons Specialist Yarns, said: “This transition presents an extraordinary opportunity for everyone here at Laxtons Specialist Yarns. It not only secures our legacy but also ensures that our skills and dedication to this industry will thrive for generations to come.
“RSM UK has played a crucial role in shaping the future of Laxtons. Together we’ve built something meaningful, and I look forward to what we will continue to accomplish together.”
Work starts on 132 new affordable Doncaster homes
Great Places has started work on 132 new affordable homes in the next phase of the Pheasant Hill Park neighbourhood on the former colliery site in Rossington, Doncaster.
The development, to be delivered in partnership with Harworth Group and Vistry-owned Countryside Partnerships, will be a mix of 1-bed apartments and two, three and four-bed homes all available for affordable rent.
The project has been developed in close collaboration with Doncaster Council to address local housing needs. The new low-carbon homes will include a range of features including air source heat pumps and electric vehicle charging points.
The development is the latest phase to be approved of the wider Pheasant Hill site of 1,400 new homes and a mix of commercial and community facilities which forms a key part of a wider ‘Gateway to the Sheffield City region’ programme.
Commenting on the planning approval Nick Gornall, Great Places Director of Development, said: “Securing approval for this next phase of Pheasant Hill Park is a significant milestone for Great Places.
“We’re pleased to be working in partnership with Harworth Group and Countryside Partnerships to deliver 132 much-needed affordable homes in Rossington.
“The development not only addresses the local housing needs but also aligns with our commitment to sustainability.
“We’re proud to contributing to the wider ‘Gateway to the Sheffield City region’ programme, creating a vibrant and sustainable community for the future.”
James Crow, Director of Mixed Tenure at Haworth Group, added: “We are delighted to be working with Great Places and Countryside Partnerships to deliver these new sustainable affordable homes at our Pheasant Hill Park development.
“This is our third forward funding transaction with Great Places in under 12 months and shows the advantages partnership working can bring to accelerate the delivery of much needed affordable homes across the region.”
Andrew Poyner, Managing Director at Vistry West Yorkshire, said: “We already have a long established relationship with Great Places across the North West, and we are proud to be working with them again as well as Harworth Group here in Rossington to help address the acute housing shortage in the area. Work has started on site and the development is due to be completed in Spring 2027.”
Work completes at Gradient Mill, supporting transformation of Wakefield’s waterfront into creative hub
Gradient Mill – part of the multi-million regeneration of Wakefield’s waterfront – has completed.
A ribbon cutting event was held to mark the completion of work and handover of the building, which features a vibrant mix of spaces for hospitality venues and four floors of flexible workspaces accommodating teams and individuals.
Gradient Mill is part of the final phase of the Tileyard North development and reflects the site’s ongoing commitment to transforming Wakefield into a thriving hub for the creative industries and local community.
The building includes new communal spaces and amenities, making it a destination for businesses, freelancers, and creatives.
The project is the final piece in a masterplan that turns Wakefield’s historic riverside into becoming a significant cultural destination in the North of England.
Paul Kempe, Owner & Co-Founder of Tileyard North, said: “The handover of Gradient Mill marks a pivotal milestone in the project’s journey, supporting the transformation of Wakefield’s Waterfront into a thriving creative hub.
“This is an exciting time for Tileyard North, as it opens the door to new opportunities for growth and innovation in our community. We want to celebrate and extend our gratitude to everyone who contributed to making this vision a reality and the collaborations that have been instrumental in bringing this development to life.”
Cllr Denise Jeffery, Leader of Wakefield Council, said: “I am very happy to see the work completed and Gradient Mill opened as part of Tileyard North’s transformation of the historic waterfront area.
“This will offer world class facilities to artists and creatives based right across the north of England.
“It will support businesses and the economy and provide a vibrant space for residents and visitors to enjoy.”
Cllr Michael Graham, Cabinet Member for Regeneration and Economic Growth, added: “This brilliant redevelopment supports our ambitious plans for the city centre. As a place that offers new opportunities for businesses and residents, and inspires creativity and access to culture. And an amazing place to live, work and visit.”
The overall project is regenerating the Grade II-listed former Rutland Mills on the historic waterfront into the largest creative community outside of London, bringing together people across West Yorkshire working in industries such as music, film, television, and design. Phase one of the scheme saw the restoration of five mill buildings. It has created space for creative industries, music studios, outdoor events space, indoor events, space for festivals and concerts, a hotel, gin distillery, restaurant and bar.Refurbished Hull icon revealed after scaffolding is taken down
Regeneration of Hull’s historic Burton building by specialist Wykeland Group has taken a major step forward with removal of scaffolding from the art deco building.
The building, now called Burton House, will ultimately offer 12,700 sq ft of city centre space, set over five floors.
Central to the restoration of Burton House is the replacement of much of the granite cladding which adorns the building. Replacement granite has been sourced from the same quarry in Norway, matching the geographical origin of the original stone.
Jonathan Stubbs, development director at Wykeland, said: “There has, unsurprisingly, been a huge amount of excitement and anticipation surrounding the regeneration of the Burton building. As one of the best-known landmarks in Hull, we’ve approached this project with a great deal of care and sympathy.
“With the scaffolding now removed and the restored exterior of the building revealed, people can envisage how Burton House will transform the entrance to Whitefriargate.
“As the project has progressed, we have had growing levels of interest from potential leisure and retail occupiers of the ground floor and basement accommodation, looking to make the most of this rare opportunity to move into a prime, regenerated city centre space. We expect that demand will further intensify now people can see the quality of the restoration we are carrying out.”
The building’s art deco windows have also been replaced, with new signage to be installed.
Restoration of Burton House is the latest significant city centre regeneration project led by Wykeland.
Wykeland is also currently restoring Hull’s Castle Buildings and reinstating the former Earl De Grey pub, in a £2m project to bring another landmark site back into use.
Yorkshire goat’s milk producer extends Goodness Grant funding to donate £17,000 to five charities
St Helen’s Farm, the goat’s milk producer, has extended its ‘Goodness Grants’ funding pot, to donate almost £17,000 to good causes across the country.
The family-run business, based near York, had initially launched the CSR initiative with a £10,000 total grant pot, encouraging not-for-profit organisations and registered charities to apply for funds of up to £5,000 to support projects which are doing good in their local communities.
However, following a review of the applications, the goat’s milk producer decided to extend its funding – and has now donated £17,000 to five different charities.
The charities include Made-Well near Exeter, which provides experiences for those living with learning disabilities, physical disabilities, mental illness and loneliness, and Stepping Stones Project in Castle Douglas, whose mission is to ease food poverty and create food dignity by maintaining a “Larder Open to All.”
The grant for the Stepping Stones Project will be used to provide “Kitchen Starter Packs” for those who have been given their own house, but who need support starting out with kitchen basics. The packs will include appliances such as slow cookers and air fryers, to help with cost-effective cooking, as well as kitchen utensils and supermarket gift cards.
Meanwhile the funding for Made-Well will be utilised to resurfacing its inclusive children’s play area, to offer better access for all.
Bill Randles, Managing Director at St Helen’s Farm, said: “When we originally launched our Goodness Grants initiative, we pledged to giveaway £10,000 to good causes. However, while reviewing the applications, we were blown away by some of the work being done across the UK – so we made the decision to increase our funding pot, to allow us to fund projects by five different charities.
“These projects really will deliver ‘goodness’ for their local communities, and we’re pleased to be able to play a role in helping to bring them to life!”
The ‘Goodness Grants’ initiative follows St Helen’s Farm’s CSR work last year which saw it raise over £28,000 for UK charity, Hope for Justice – which works to end modern slavery across the UK.
The five charities receiving funds through the ‘Goodness Grants’ are: Stepping Stones Community Larder and Foodbank, Made-Well, Tremorfa Nursery, Ffrindiau Ysgol Pennant, and Hapurhey Neighbourhood Project.
Tall strengthens leadership team
Digital brand experience specialists, Tall, recently developed a new strategic role for Lucy Evans and promoted Georgia Robson to a new senior leadership role following recent growth within the agency to help deliver a newly formed strategic direction for the business, with ambitious growth plans for 2025.
With 18 years’ industry experience across agency and in house roles, Lucy’s expertise encompasses integrated campaigns, brand strategy and digital. Working with global brands such as La redoute, Parkdean, NSPCC, Marie Curie, Great Lengths and Cloud Nine, Lucy started her journey at Tall in 2019 to strengthen the client relationship and strategy side of the business.
Now, as Head of Marketing, Lucy will be leading the Marketing function with a clear focus on business growth, which, for Tall, is highly ambitious for 2025 as it sets its sights on dominating the digital space for some of the world’s biggest brands.
Stepping into Lucy’s former Head of Client Services role, Georgia Robson will now focus on supporting existing client relationships and growth. With over a decade of diverse experience, Georgia’s expertise is rooted in strategy and creativity.
Georgia’s core roles will focus on comprehensive strategies for key accounts, ensuring seamless delivery, sustained growth, and client satisfaction for brands such as The LEGO Group, SharkNinja, Tofoo and many more.
This is no new challenge for Georgia who has previously helped industry giants such as Virgin Holidays, Red Bull, Silentnight, Daniel Thwaites, MGA Entertainment, BBC Summer Social as well as many more.
Executive Creative Director, Guy Utley, said: “It’s a very exciting time for Tall right now and the appointments of Lucy and Georgia are a key step towards our ultimate success.
“Their combined knowledge and industry experience is unmatched, delivering high quality work for some of the world’s biggest brands is no mean feat and they do it seamlessly. We have some tall ambitions for 2025 and Georgia and Lucy are the perfect people to help deliver on those goals, so watch this space!”
