Hull solar firm secures investment to back nationwide expansion
Backed by an eight-figure finance package arranged with Angel Invest and DF Capital Hull-based HDM Solar has set its sights on having sixty sites throughout the UK, with fiver operational by the end of this year.
It will use the investment and working capital facility to accelerate the rollout of a nationwide network of branches which will generate new jobs and provide local support to installers, businesses and consumers in every corner of the country.
This funding is another significant step in the development of the company and its ambition to be the UK’s leading renewable energy equipment wholesaler. The Hull based business is at the forefront of championing affordable energy solutions and making it simpler for millions of homes and businesses to embark on a journey towards net zero.
Adam Firth, HDM Solar’s MD, said: “We have carefully and strategically planned our UK wholesale network expansion. This funding will help us increase our number of branches so we can provide even better service and support to our customers across the country, it’s a really exciting and rewarding time for everyone at HDM Solar as we continue to offer a new proposition to the market.”
The investment from Angel Invest and working capital facility from DF Capital illustrates their shared confidence in the profitability, longevity and management of the business.
John von Berenberg-Consbruch, Partner at Angel Invest said: “Daniel, Adam and the team at HDM Solar have demonstrated an exemplary level of professionalism and growth planning. The HDM Solar business is growing quickly by offering best-in-class products and exceptional service. Our investment will help accelerate their expansion and plan to become a leading industry player”.
Garry Frew, Chief Commercial Officer at DF Capital added: “We’re delighted to provide this facility to HDM Solar during this significant period of growth. Daniel and Adam have demonstrated tremendous industry knowledge and a robust, exciting plan for the future development of the business which we are delighted to support.”
Over a third of mid-sized businesses in UK unable to recruit apprentices
Over a third of mid-sized businesses in the UK would like to hire apprentices but do not have sufficient resources or guidance to do so, according to new data from accountancy and business advisory firm, BDO.
BDO’s bi-monthly survey of more than 500 mid-sized businesses reveals that almost a third (32%) of respondents want to hire more apprentices but the costs associated are too high, with the same number wanting more guidance on how to go about it.
The same number of respondents (32%) most want to see support from a future government to resolve staff or skills shortages including reform to the apprenticeship levy. This came as a higher priority than tax breaks and regulatory changes, demonstrating its importance to the businesses that sit at the heart of the UK’s economy.
Less than one in five respondents claim to regularly hire apprentices through the Apprenticeship Levy, with high costs (32%) and a lack of guidance (32%) cited as the main barriers to doing so.
Yet desire remains strong amongst businesses – a quarter of respondents said they would increase their hiring habits if they could work more closely with local schools and colleges in order to shape an apprenticeship programme.
Apprenticeship hiring levels vary significantly across the UK’s mid-market. Nearly double the number of respondents in the North West (33%) said they needed support with the skills gap, compared to their counterparts in London.
Other areas with a high number of businesses requiring additional funding and guidance to start hiring include the South West (42%) and East Midlands (40%), suggesting there remains some regional imbalance in opportunities to access training programmes.
Skills shortages remain a challenge for mid-sized businesses across the board, with almost a quarter (24%) citing that they cannot find people with the right skills because of the region they work in. This jumps to almost a third of businesses in the North West (33%) and the North East (31%).
In addition to regional cold spots, certain industries record significantly lower levels of understanding when it comes to the process of apprenticeship hiring. Almost two in five (38%) mid-market real estate companies claimed they would hire apprentices if they had more guidance on how to start a programme and 43% of technology and media companies, both high growth areas of the economy.
Richard Austin, partner at BDO, said: “As we celebrate National Apprenticeship week, the importance of apprentices to the economic growth of this country is not lost on anyone, least of all the businesses at the heart of our economy.
“These businesses are responsible for more than 8 million jobs, the equivalent of one in four across the UK and with the right level of targeted support, together we can help these businesses kick start their hiring; boosting the number of high quality opportunities on offer to our younger generations and providing the skills the UK so desperately needs.”
Colleges’ web site secures national award for East Riding designers
A new website created by Bluestorm Design and Marketing for East Yorkshire’s Bishop Burton College and Lincolnshire’s Riseholme College has won a Gold award at the FE First Awards.
Organised annually by the College Marketing Association, the awards reflect the best of further education marketing, comms and digital communications across the UK. The new websites have performed beyond expectation, with the colleges seeing a significant increase in both those using the website, especially on the University Centre and Business and Employer sections of the website, and an increase in those applying for courses at the two campuses. Dan Murphy, Digital Director at Bluestorm, which is based at Melton in the East Riding, said: “We’re thrilled to have received this award, which highlights the great results we achieved for Bishop Burton and Riseholme. “This award also cements the great reputation Bluestorm has garnered for expertise and achieving strong results in the further education sector with our websites, as well as marketing and design.”Interest rate ‘hold’ gives businesses some respite, says BCC
The Bank of England’s decision to hold to hold the interest rate at 5.25% will give some respite for businesses, though it’s still a source of concern for SMEs, says the British Chambers of Commerce.
David Bharier, Head of Research at the BCC, said: “Our surveys have showed that around four in ten SMEs say they are directly negatively impacted by the current rate, mainly through higher borrowing costs. Smaller firms and those in sectors such as hospitality and retail are disproportionately impacted.
“The Bank has outlined that inflation is likely to remain volatile for the foreseeable future. Alongside this, UK firms face significant uncertainties with geopolitical conflicts, new trade barriers with the EU, and ongoing skills shortages. The Red Sea crisis has already seen spikes in shipping container and insurance costs which could feed into a renewed wave of inflation.
“With a General Election fast approaching, political parties will need to set out a clear plan for the economy. The BCC is setting out it’s priorities for the next Government across a series of reports, starting with ‘Green Innovation Challenge’ report, released this week.“
Law firm and students launch new personal injury legal advice service
Leeds Law School has teamed up with national injury firm Hodge Jones & Allen to expand its student-run service offering free legal advice.
The new partnership will see students and solicitors work together to provide free legal advice to those who have suffered a personal injury.
It will build on the service already provided by the Law Clinic at Leeds Law School, which has been advising members of the public for over 10 years on matters of family law, employment law and civil litigation.
Hodge Jones & Allen will work with law student volunteers to deal with personal injury enquiries via zoom calls to provide a fast response.
Dr Rachel Dunn, Course Director for Pro Bono and Employability, said: “The new partnership between Leeds Law School and Hodge Jones & Allen demonstrates our commitment to social justice and ensuring that those who need legal advice the most can access it.
“It will also provide our students with the vital skills needed for life after university. It is an amazing opportunity for them to work closely with such experienced solicitors from a leading personal injury firm.”
Daniel Denton, Partner at Hodge Jones & Allen, said: ‘’We’re delighted to be working with Leeds Law School and their students who will help support the public with personal injury enquiries. It’s an opportunity for callers to speak directly to a highly experienced personal injury solicitor’’.
Leeds Law School is a key educator of legal professionals in the Leeds and West Yorkshire region and works extensively with law firms and other businesses to support students with work placements and employers to hire talented graduates that will energise their team and support the local community.
New funding round starts soon for North Lincolnshire businesses
Dozens of businesses across North Lincolnshire have invested more than £2.2m after being backed with £300,000 Government cash.
More than 250 jobs have been created or protected thanks to the scheme run by North Lincolnshire Council using money from the UK Shared Prosperity Fund, with a new round of funding due to begin shortly.
The businesses invested in new machinery, IT equipment, software, marketing support to attract new clients and a raft of green technologies including solar panels, LED lights and new efficient heating systems.
Rob Waltham, Leader of North Lincolnshire Council, said: “We are working hard to support local businesses to create and protect jobs – thanks to this injection of Government cash we have been able to help dozens of businesses grow.
“Alongside the grant money the businesses have heavily invested themselves.
“A key focus was helping local companies go green and save on their energy bills with new solar panels making up a good number of the grants. This is part of our Green Futures strategy, joining up with forward thinking companies, schools and other organisations to reduce bill and the area’s carbon footprint.”
The businesses backed included those working in manufacturing, engineering, retail, hospitality and professional services such as accountants.
The next round of UKSPF business grants is due to reopen in the spring. For more information email the business team on businessinfo@northlincs.gov.uk
Camber announces winners in Construction and Property Awards
Lincolnshire County Council, Waldeck Consulting and YMD Boon Ltd were amongst the winners at the seventh annual Greater Lincolnshire Construction & Property Awards.
Almost 300 people gathered to celebrate the Construction and Property sector in Lincolnshire at the Doubletree by Hilton in Lincoln.
Héloïse Evans, Head of Marketing at the Lincolnshire Chamber of Commerce said: “The awards night was a brilliant opportunity to recognise excellence in the Construction and Property industries within our county, showcasing remarkable projects, innovations, and forward-thinking companies.
“The standards of nominations continues to increase, it proves more challenging to select just one winner amongst the future-industry leaders and multi-million-pound projects.
“We look forward to seeing everyone at next year’s awards on 6th February 2025.”
The winners of the Greater Lincolnshire Construction & Property Awards 2024 are:
Apprentice / Young Achiever of the Year – Sponsored by Lincoln College: Conor Penlington from Waldeck Consulting
Architecture/Design Company of the Year – Sponsored by the University of Lincoln: YMD Boon Ltd
Engineering Consultant of the Year: Waldeck Consulting
Development Project (over £5 million) – Sponsored by Shakespeare Martineau: Lincolnshire County Council (Lincolnshire Special Educational Needs and Disabilities Programme)
Development Project (under £5 million) – Sponsored by Waldeck: Viridis Building Services (Blenkin Memorial Hall Boston)
Residential Project of the Year – Sponsored by UK Alternative Energy: Longhurst Group (Caxton Place, Boston)
Supplier/Sub-Contractor of the Year: Architectural Imaging Solutions
Julian joins Lincolnshire Chamber to boost exports in the county’s south and east
Julian Sigauke has joined the Lincolnshire Chamber of Commerce as its International Trade Coach working with the International Trade team supporting businesses of all sizes within the South & East of Lincolnshire.
He has been working within the Import and Export industry since 2009. He has represented popular brands, including PepsiCo Snacks,Heineken Lion match products and Kimberly Clarke. Before his appointment he has been supporting UK companies of all sizes looking to export to various African Markets.
Julian joins the team at what’s seen as a pivotal moment of growth as the Lincolnshire Chamber of Commerce aims to develop and increase its International Trade offering, currently including Export Documentation, Chamber Customs, Peer to Peer Network, Training and Events, Advising and Consulting, and Translation Services.
He said: “The opportunity to support local businesses and help them bring down costs to assist them in competing within the market is inspiring. I look forward to playing a key role in consulting with them and supporting their growth in international markets.” Simon Beardsley, Chief Executive of Lincolnshire Chamber of Commerce, said “With a thorough understanding of global markets and proven experience working within the industry and navigating complex international trade landscapes, Julian is a valuable addition to our organisation.” “I look forward to seeing his expertise enhance our capabilities and offerings, supporting more businesses across Lincolnshire to grow and develop.”Multi-million-pound investment to support development in Calderdale to be discussed
A multi-million-pound investment to support development in south east Calderdale is to be discussed at a meeting of Calderdale Council’s Cabinet on Monday 12 February 2024.
Members will consider proposals for significant investment to enable new sustainable growth opportunities in and around Brighouse, which will support the delivery of the Local Plan for Calderdale.
New garden communities at Woodhouse in Rastrick and Thornhills in Brighouse, are a major part of the Local Plan for Calderdale which was adopted in March 2023. Together, these developments have potential capacity to provide around 3,000 new homes, two primary schools and a range of community facilities.
The garden communities form part of a wider programme of transformation across south east Calderdale, which also includes the planned delivery of Clifton Business Park – the largest employment land allocation in the Local Plan.
These strategic housing and employment sites together comprise a scale of development which is locally unprecedented. It requires equally ambitious infrastructure improvements and the report being discussed by Cabinet outlines the level of investment needed to successfully deliver the projects.
Cabinet will be asked to agree to the proposed investment and recommend to Council that £52 million is allocated into the Council’s Capital programme to allow for the work required to unlock the potential of the land. This would be funded by borrowing and by future house builders, for infrastructure necessary for development schemes within the garden communities.
The investment would also support elements of the A641 improvement scheme, being funded through the West Yorkshire Combined Authority’s West Yorkshire-plus Transport Fund. This looks to improve the infrastructure and connectivity on this key route through Brighouse, linking Huddersfield and Bradford and ensuring that communities in south east Calderdale have access to sustainable transport options.
It also complements wider investment in Brighouse through the Government’s Town Deal, with over £19 million supporting projects which aim to transform Brighouse by encouraging more people to shop, spend time and spend money in the town. In addition, the garden communities are estimated to increase local spend by around £37 million each year, further benefitting local businesses.
Calderdale Council’s Cabinet Member for Climate Action, Active Travel and Housing, Cllr Scott Patient, said: “Supporting this major investment in south east Calderdale would help us to deliver on our growth ambitions and allow for much needed new, high-quality homes, employment sites and critical transport infrastructure in this strategically significant part of the borough.
“The developments, as part of the Local Plan, will build a better Calderdale for everyone, opening up opportunities for new investment, helping to create new jobs and supporting thriving towns and places. This would be an investment to unlock the potential of the area and ensure we deliver against the Local Plan objectives and that the schemes are sustainable.”
Cultural sector generates £224m for Hull
Hull has seen a £224.8 million boost since 2015 thanks to the creative and cultural sector.
New research commissioned by the council evidences a 20 per cent increase in GVA in the culture and creative sector since 2015, with around 7,000 people now working in creative industries in the city.
Results also show an £18 million wage equivalent from volunteering in 2022-23 alone from assessing the HEY! Volunteer programme, alongside £25.9 million well-being benefits for those participating in creative and cultural activities.
The research has been conducted by KADA Research, specialists in economic development consultancy, who as part of this work have compiled a creative asset database for the city.
The database includes any locations that support culture and creativity to take place, whether that be a venue or community centre.
The report explores the findings and learnings from the database and the council are using it to consider how best to support cultural infrastructure moving forward.
Councillor Rob Pritchard, portfolio holder for culture and leisure, said: “The results of this research are great news for the city and the future of culture and creativity as a major industry.
“The asset database will become an extremely valuable tool, acting as a directory for future event planning in the city.
“All of the information gathered from this in-depth research will help us to inform the new cultural strategy which is currently in development.”
The research results will be used to move plans forward for a UNESCO Creative City of Music bid in 2025.
