Rotherham printer invests almost £2m to speed booklet production

Stuart Pearcey
-
0
Rotherham printer invests almost £2m to speed booklet production
Rotherham-based online printer instantprint has invested almost £2 million in the UK’s first Muller Martini Prinova Digital stitching lines. With the goal of improving efficiencies, the speed of the new stitcher allows instantprint to print books much faster than their existing stitchliners, from around 2,000 an hour to a 9,000. They’re also able to easily switch the way the stitcher is fed, meaning no matter which printer customers’ books are printed on, they now have more opportunities to speed up the turnaround time of delivery. James Kinsella,instantprint Co-Founder, said:“The Muller Martinis are capable of being fed from any device in the factory making them very flexible. The key thing for us is that we do lots of jobs on lots of different materials, so job-to-job changeover is really important for us. We could feed the stitchers with reels and move from size-to-size automatically, and could also switch from reels to sections, to digital sheets. “The team are currently working intensively on setting up the automated workflow and integrating the new stitchers with its internal systems, with the first machine being installed now, and the second following soon.”

Mitie wins ten-year contract to run new prison at York

Stuart Pearcey
-
0
Mitie wins ten-year contract to run new prison at York
Mitie Care & Custody has been awarded the contract to operate HMP Millsike, the UK’s first all-electric prison that will provide around 1,500 places. Due to open next year, the Category C prison is the third new prison being built as part of the government’s £4 billion prison expansion programme, delivering 20,000 new places. The facility will run solely on electricity, making it the first of its kind in the UK. The build will use solar panels, heat pump technology and more efficient lighting systems, meaning that it will use approximately a quarter of the energy used to heat traditional Victorian prisons. In addition, Mitie Care & Custody will deliver drug treatment that supports abstinence-based recovery for prisoners in prison and after their release, a learning package tailored to prisoners to help them boost their skills, and 1,000 living wage jobs for prison leavers over the course of the contract. Prisons Minister Edward Argar said:  “We are creating modern and secure prisons with rehabilitation at their heart so we can turn offenders lives around for good and cut crime and reoffending further.

“We are building 20,000 prison places now that we are keeping the most dangerous offenders behind bars for longer and I look forward to seeing Mitie Care & Custody’s innovative approach in action when HMP Millsike opens next year.”

 The building of the prison has already provided offenders with valuable work experience, with prisoners on day release supporting its construction, learning key construction skills, as well as transferable skills such as teamwork, communication and organisation that will help them find jobs at the end of their time in prison. Over £117 million has been invested in the local community through the construction so far, and Mitie Care & Custody will employ over 500 people when the prison is operational. Danny Spencer, MD of Mitie Care & Custody, said: “We are pleased to have been awarded this contract to operate HMP Millsike.

With our experience delivering critical public services to support the immigration, justice and care sectors, as well as our expertise in facilities transformation and decarbonisation, we are excited to bring a modern and caring approach to prison management at this innovative new site.”

Yorkshire administrations fall but pressure remains on construction sector

Tess Egginton
-
0
Yorkshire administrations fall but pressure remains on construction sector
The number of companies in Yorkshire and the North East of England filing for administration in the first quarter of the year dropped by more than a quarter (27.5%), according to figures from Interpath Advisory. However, insolvency experts warn that the stresses facing the region’s businesses remain, with building & construction particularly affected. Analysis of notices in The Gazette by Interpath shows there were 37 administrations across Yorkshire and the North East in Q1 2024, a drop against last year’s corresponding figures (Q1 2023: 51). The figures buck the national trend as the number of cases in Great Britain saw a modest rise from 321 (Q1 2023) to 328 (Q1 2024). Yorkshire and the North East accounted for just over a tenth (11.3%) of administrations across the country. Building & construction was the stand-out most impacted sector in the region with 11 cases in the first three months of the year, followed by industrial manufacturing with six administrations. Commenting on the figures, James Clark, Managing Director and Head of the Yorkshire team at Interpath Advisory, said: “Yorkshire and the North East has had some relief as the number of administrations fell on a quarter-on-quarter basis compared to last year, but this risks masking a broader long-term trend of distress as Government support has fallen away and businesses have been buffeted by inflation, poor growth, a cautious consumer, and high interest rates. “The wear and tear that such punishing trading conditions have on company finances is unsustainable for many and we’re seeing that come through in administrations. “From what we’re seeing on the ground, cashflow pressure is ultimately proving to be the tipping point. Costs have hammered margins, but many management teams have also found it hard to find the revenues that will give them sufficient breathing room. “A stubborn base rate and tight covenants with lenders combine to make the hard wall that they can then come up against. That distress can spread through supply chains and can impact larger businesses. “Looking ahead, we expect that the administration rate on an annual basis to rise and to surpass the peak we saw immediately before COVID-19 in 2020. That point of inflexion is likely to come towards the end of this year and will represent an important marker in the re-adjustment of the UK economy. “Let’s not forgot that, while administrations can signal distress the outcome of these processes is equally vital and the other side of the equation. That’s why it is so essential that businesses seek support as early as possible as it can give them the best chance of a positive outcome.”

Housebuilder signs deal at South Central Leeds

Tess Egginton
-
0
Housebuilder signs deal at South Central Leeds
Housebuilder, Keepmoat has agreed a deal to let 6,682 sq ft of office space at South Central in Leeds following a comprehensive refurbishment at the green site. CBRE’s Office Agency team, alongside joint agents Knight Frank, secured the letting at the reimagined workspace close to the White Rose Shopping Centre and imminent new White Rose train station. Keepmoat was represented by Avison Young.

South Central on Global Avenue has undergone a full renovation programme with the landlord, Merkino Limited focusing on improving amenities and sustainability as part of its investment at the site.

With more than 75,300 sq ft of office accommodation, occupiers are now benefiting from a new gym, shower facilities, business lounge and outdoor meeting space. 

Keepmoat has agreed a 10 year deal on a suite within the building. 

This latest letting is the third deal to complete following the restoration works, with existing tenants Aon and Inseego already in occupation. 

Alex Hailey, Senior Director, CBRE, said: “South Central offers modern, stylish and welcoming sustainable workspace, which minimally impacts the environment – a key driver in occupier demands in the Leeds office market.

“This refurbished office space is appealing to occupiers seeking accommodation that attracts and retains the best talent. It’s in an excellent location on a spacious, leafy green site and has first class transport links, as well as the amenities of the nearby White Rose Shopping Centre.”

Chris Clingo, Interim Regional Managing Director at Keepmoat Yorkshire West, added: “I’m delighted to announce that Keepmoat has invested in a new office space for the Keepmoat Yorkshire West regional division.

“The new space for the team has greater commuter links and amenities nearby, plus it further fuels Keepmoat’s commitment to employees by providing them with a high-end place of work where they can thrive. By taking out a lease at South Central, we mark an exciting start to a new journey in a fantastic new space.”

15 acre Doncaster industrial site sold

Tess Egginton
-
0
15 acre Doncaster industrial site sold

Keyland Developments Ltd, the property trading arm of Kelda Group and sister-company to Yorkshire Water, has agreed the sale of a circa 15 acre site in Balby, Doncaster to Total Developments Limited for the creation of a new industrial development.

Unconditional contracts have been exchanged on the site at Woodfield Road in Balby, which is currently allocated for employment use. Subject to planning, the site could accommodate an industrial development with a potential GDV of circa £30m including 233,500 sq ft of accommodation over 5 units. A scheme of this scale would deliver around 95 construction related jobs.

Total Developments are currently on site with works commencing on their Total Park development which sits on adjacent land. Total Park will deliver 5 new units totalling 376,419 sq ft with units ranging from 43,525-128,945 sq ft. The new land acquired from Keyland Developments will form the second phase of development.

Matthew Turnbull, Land & Planning Manager at Keyland Developments Ltd, said: “This land sale ideally complements the development being undertaken at the adjacent site.

“South Yorkshire is in real need of new industrial and logistics accommodation to meet rising demand, and by unlocking this strategic site we are enabling a significant amount of square footage to be delivered to the constrained market. Additionally, development will generate lots of new jobs, during construction and beyond.”

Henry Watson, Partner at M1 Agency, said: ”The acquisition demonstrates our confidence in the South Yorkshire region where units below 150,000 sq ft are at an all-time low. Future supply of this size range states a chronic lack of supply across the region and especially within Doncaster.

“On top of the recent transactions across the region, we are still seeing a strong influx of distribution enquiries for new build space, focussing on strong ESG credentials, which is at the centre of Total Developments’ strategy.

“The proximity to the motorway network has been a key consideration and exemplifies why this is a proven location. The M18 and A1(M) intersection is just 3 miles away, which link to Leeds, Sheffield and Manchester in the North and Nottingham, Birmingham and London in the South.

“In addition, the site is less than 4 miles from iPort Rail, which provides immediate access to the national rail network and all the country’s deep sea ports. This site will provide an expansion of the existing Total Park, where construction is well under way with the first three units ready for occupation in quarter three of 2024.”

Wilkin Chapman names Caroline as new partner

Stuart Pearcey
-
0
Wilkin Chapman names Caroline as new partner
Caroline Neadley has joined law firm Wilkin Chapman as a partner and will be based at its Grimsby office, where she will work closely with head of employment Oliver Tasker. She has 22 years’ experience in law in a wide range of sectors, including food, education and public sector employment. She said: “I’m thrilled to be joining the team at Wilkin Chapman. Having worked in both the private and public sectors, I have a unique employment law skillset which will complement the wide range of experience within the team. My private sector experience is primarily a varied client base across sectors such as manufacturing, motor, food, and charities. I also have extensive experience in the education sector. “These specialisms align very well with Wilkin Chapman’s client base. My expertise will further develop the employment teams’ experience and ability to support existing clients, and secure new clients during a time of varied legislative reform.” Oliver Tasker added: “Caroline’s appointment is a great asset to our highly-regarded employment team, and demonstrates our ability to attract the very best legal talent in the region. She brings incredible experience and a diverse sector knowledge which will benefit our clients across Lincolnshire, East Yorkshire, and nationally. “As well as having led legal teams in her past positions, Caroline is recognised as a leading individual in employment law in the Legal 500, an independent legal guide ranking individuals and firms on feedback from clients and peers. She is also the chair of Women in Business Hull, a highly successful women’s networking organisation aimed at supporting and inspiring women in the region.” Caroline has a degree in law from Sheffield Hallam University and undertook her Legal Practice Course at the York College of Law.

Rescue specialist makes Doncaster new northern HQ

Tess Egginton
-
0
Rescue specialist makes Doncaster new northern HQ
A confined space, rescue, training and utilities specialist has established its new northern base in Doncaster to address national provision for its 24/7 services. Rescue 2 Ltd has taken 13,000 sq ft at the newly constructed Jubilee Park, built alongside Platinum Park by developer Priority Space in partnership with HG Sites to satisfy the growing demand for smaller industrial occupiers in the region. Interest in the units, named in honour of Queen Elizabeth’s 70 years on the throne and Doncaster being granted city status, has been high, with 50 per cent of the units now under offer, let or sold, leaving eight units remaining from 1,759 sq ft to 29,790 sq ft. Rescue 2 Ltd joins new tenants PPE provider Skanwear, which recently upsized its operations in South Yorkshire with a move to a 16,000 sq ft unit at Jubilee Park, plus other occupiers Jones Electrical, Dynamic CCTV and Assured Group. Ashley Goodlad from Rescue 2 Ltd said: “With sites in both the South and the North, we are strategically positioned to elevate our services across all regions. Our dual presence allows us to scale our services to meet corporate demands on a national level. “We set the required gold standard across the industry. Our can do attitude, ability to scale up with quality and provide bespoke, necessary rescue, utilities, training, and management provision, can now be offered to clients across the country.” Priority Space director Lee Buchanan said: “These new units are very well-placed in Doncaster with excellent connections and provide businesses with the space and facilities they need to expand and invest in growth. “We are also delighted at the news that lease negotiations are underway on Doncaster Sheffield Airport and that the airport could be reopened in 2024/25, which would provide a huge boost to the local economy and will make Platinum and Jubilee Park even more appealing to occupiers, with an operating airport on the doorstep of the scheme.” Cllr Glyn Jones, Cabinet Member for Business at City of Doncaster Council, said: “It is great to see companies expanding into these excellent new industrial units. “These units, being available for sale or let are exactly what is required in Doncaster at this present time, and offer a quality opportunity for businesses new to Doncaster or who want to upgrade their facilities. “There is still confidence in our economy and Business Doncaster with the help they can provide look forward to helping bring more new investors to this site.”

Associate director of investment appointed at Town Centre Securities

Tess Egginton
-
0
Associate director of investment appointed at Town Centre Securities

Leeds and London based property investment and development company Town Centre Securities PLC (TCS), has appointed Jacob Ziff as associate director of investment. Jacob, who joins from investment brokerage firm Clifton Agency, will focus on creating a strategy for property investment and to assist managing the existing TCS property portfolio.

After graduating from the University of Leeds in 2019, Jacob joined West End based CWM, where he worked in retail agency and lease restructuring, gaining invaluable experience predominantly acting for various occupier clients.

Following his tenure in retail agency, Jacob moved across to Clifton Agency, where he focused on UK-wide commercial real estate capital markets. Last year, Jacob also completed a Master’s degree in Real Estate Investment & Finance and the IPF Diploma at the University of Reading.

Jacob said: “I am honoured to follow in the footsteps of my family by joining TCS. It’s a tremendous opportunity to continue the growth and success of the business and I am eager to leverage my skills and experience to create a new investment strategy and enhance the existing property portfolio.”

Edward Ziff, chairman and Chief Executive of TCS, said: “Together with all my colleagues, we are thrilled to welcome Jacob into the business. He has a strong background in real estate investment and agency, and coupled with his dedication to professional development, I am confident that he will play a key role in managing and enhancing our property portfolio.

“Welcoming Jacob into the business, who joins my oldest son Ben and daughter Charlotte-Daisy, marks the next phase in taking TCS forward. Sixty-five years ago, my father laid the foundation for a business that has since become a stalwart in the property industry. With Jacob’s arrival and his experience, we are confident that he will contribute significantly to the ongoing success of TCS and help shape the future of the company.”

Strike threatened at University of Lincoln as over 220 jobs put on the line

Tess Egginton
-
0
Strike threatened at University of Lincoln as over 220 jobs put on the line
Staff at the University of Lincoln are poised to take a stand against “brutal cuts,” with a consultation over potential strike action having begun.
The cuts involve over 220 employees, including one in ten academic staff, according to University and College Union (UCU). Cuts include the phasing out of the fashion degree and ending specialist support for widening participation students in the foundation studies centre. The centre’s teaching team have been notified their jobs are at risk. Despite the most recent accounts showing that in 2022/23 the university ran a £3m operating surplus and had £46m in cash reserves, a directive was issued last week, underscoring the necessity to slash the budget by £30m by the end of the 2025 financial year, the UCU notes. Some cuts have already been made with modern languages provision being shut down and eight staff losing their jobs. UCU Lincoln acting chair Dr Rob Dean said: “It is simply impossible to slash so many jobs without severely impacting current students, future students and diminishing the university’s vital role as a cornerstone of regional education. “Furthermore, not only are many people in danger of losing their jobs, but we are also extremely concerned that those remaining will be left with unmanageable workloads. “Without a transparent assessment of past decisions and a commitment to accountability, there is a risk of perpetuating the same errors, endangering the institution’s future stability. “However, the impact of this extends beyond the confines of academia. The local economy will also be affected. In a small city like Lincoln the number of proposed cuts threaten to undermine the socioeconomic fabric of the region, exacerbating existing challenges and inequalities.”

Kyle starts new role as tax director to lead Azets’ NMW service line

Stuart Pearcey
-
0
Kyle starts new role as tax director to lead Azets’ NMW service line
Leeds-based Kyle Newton has been appointed as Azets’ employment tax director to lead its National Minimum Wage service line. He’ll be helping clients nationwide to implement NMW processes and controls to manage compliance and navigate complex HMRC enquiries. Kyle, who is a qualified chartered accountant, brings a wealth of experience over 15 years from a variety of roles at BDO, Deloitte and PwC. With his experience including internal audit, one of Kyle’s focuses is supporting businesses with implementing robust controls in a practical manner to reduce impact on day-to-day business. He has joined Azets’ as new NMW rate changes, including increases and an extension of the National Living Wage for workers aged 21 and over, came into force at the start of April. He said: “The National Minimum Wage is commonly misunderstood. It is much more complex than a simple hourly rate and is made up of a number of components. “With an unprecedented increase to the NMW age rates and business budgets stretched, many businesses are faced with a difficult challenge of balancing cost and maintaining day to day business. HMRC enforcement activity continues to increase, for example with its most recent regional enforcement campaign targeting 10 geographic regions and the most recent naming and shaming round (round 20) highlighting HMRC’s continued focus to enforce to the full extent of the law. “Many employers remain unaware of the potential pitfalls where they could be underpaying workers and with the likelihood of HMRC knocking at their door increasing, they could be faced with a 200% penalty and public naming and shaming, on top of paying the arrears, additional employer pension contributions and additional employer National Insurance Contributions. “Now more than ever it’s really important to consider taking proactive steps. With Azets accelerated growth and the firm supporting more and more SMEs, which is HMRC’s current enforcement focus, this is a perfect time to join Azets and I am looking forward to supporting clients across Yorkshire and the UK.” Partner Richard Whitelock, who heads up employer solutions services for Azets in Yorkshire, said: “Kyle has a proven track record in both employment taxes and NMW advisory matters. He comes with impressive experience and a deep technical understanding of the NMW regulations and employment tax legislation. “He will be a valuable addition to our team providing employment tax advice support in Yorkshire and leading on our newly launched National Minimum Wage service line nationwide.”
1...304305306...942Page 305 of 942