North East Lincolnshire launches new business support guide

April Lara
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North East Lincolnshire launches new business support guide

North East Lincolnshire Council has introduced a comprehensive Business Support Guide designed to assist enterprises across the borough in growth and development.

The borough hosts nearly 5,000 registered businesses, spanning a wide range of sectors. The guide provides practical information on funding opportunities, recruitment strategies, and marketing resources tailored to local companies.

Compiled by InvestNEL, the council’s economy and funding team, the guide features free and subsidised support from organisations including Business Lincolnshire, Job Centre Plus, and the Federation of Small Businesses. It will be regularly updated to ensure North East Lincolnshire companies have access to the latest tools and programmes.

The guide is accessible for download via the InvestNEL Business Support page. Council initiatives, such as the ongoing redevelopment of Freshney Place, aim to complement these resources by strengthening the local business environment and supporting sustainable economic growth.

Lamplas sold to MPM Group following two-decade collaboration

Tess Egginton
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Lamplas sold to MPM Group following two-decade collaboration
A collaboration spanning two decades has culminated in the sale of composite mouldings specialist Lamplas to long-time admirer MPM Group. Lamplas, founded in 1971 and based in Consett, Co Durham, designs and produces glass fibre composites for a range of products including shower cubicles, baths, basins, motorhome and campervan parts, life rafts and Bluetooth speaker casings. In a deal advised on by Will Griffiths, KBS Corporate Transaction Adviser, Lamplas was sold to composite mouldings manufacturer and supplier MPM Group, based in Bramley, Leeds. MPM (Moulds Patterns and Models) was founded in 1978 and the strategic acquisition will expand the family-owned group’s product portfolio, enhance its manufacturing capability and technical expertise, and broaden its market reach. The combined workforces will have over 90 skilled team members. Operations at Lamplas will continue as normal, with the existing team and facility remaining in place. “We’ve long admired the work of Lamplas and worked together on various projects for over 20 years,” explained Ben Wilson, managing director of MPM Group. “Their product quality and desire for ‘better’ have helped them build the business they have. “This acquisition brings two long-established family businesses together, combining our strengths, qualities and values to bring even more value to our customers’ supply chains. “We are excited about the opportunities ahead, working with a great team, and welcome Lamplas into the MPM family.” Keith Siddle, managing director of Lamplas, said: “Lamplas has always been proud of its family roots, quality focus and skilled workforce. We are delighted to be joining the MPM Group, which ensures our legacy continues with the backing of a partner that understands and shares our values. “We are excited about the opportunities this brings for our team, our customers and our future.” KBS Corporate’s Will Griffiths said: “I’d like to express my thanks to Claire Stretton of Higgs LLP for the excellent legal services provided, and offer my congratulations and thanks to Keith Siddle, who was a pleasure to work with.”

Tissue Regenix reports lower revenue as strategic orders dip

April Lara
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Tissue Regenix reports lower revenue as strategic orders dip

Tissue Regenix, the Leeds-based regenerative medical devices firm, reported a six per cent decline in group revenue to $13.8m/£10.2m for the six months ending 30 June 2025, compared with $14.7m/£10.9m in H1 2024.

The drop reflects lower orders from strategic partners amid ongoing economic uncertainty. The company’s BioRinse portfolio fell to $9.8m/£7.3m from $10.5m/£7.8m a year earlier, affected by partner order reductions and delays in regulatory approvals that have slowed market expansion.

dCELL® sales, driven by the DermaPure® line, decreased four per cent year-on-year to $4m/£3m due to weaker partner demand. Direct distribution channels, however, grew revenue by 10 per cent, supported by the addition of 32 new distributors in the first half of 2025.

Tissue Regenix expects a positive adjusted EBITDA for H1 2025 and maintains guidance for full-year adjusted EBITDA profitability at levels comparable with FY 2024. The company reports a cash position sufficient to fund its organic growth strategy and planned expansion into 2026.

Leadership changes have been confirmed. Jay LeCoque joins as executive chairman, bringing more than 25 years of experience in global life sciences business development. Jonathan Glenn and Trevor Phillips have resigned from the board, effective immediately.

Cefar features in HSBC UK small business campaign

April Lara
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Cefar features in HSBC UK small business campaign

Leeds-based digital agency Cefar has been selected to appear in HSBC UK’s latest campaign promoting support for small businesses. The agency, founded in 2009 by Surinder Kalsi, specialises in website design, CRM systems, and bespoke software development across the UK.

The campaign will feature Cefar in articles and billboards nationwide, showcasing the company’s growth, client partnerships, and technical expertise. HSBC highlights how its support services, including business specialists and mentorship connections, have helped small firms overcome early challenges and expand their operations.

HSBC UK’s campaign also promotes a range of tools for small business growth. These include the Small Business Banking Account with no monthly fees, the My Business Finances accounting tool accessible via online banking, and the Small Business Growth Programme, which provides access to workshops, events, and expert training through collaborations with partners such as WIRED, Microsoft, and UpSkill Universe.

Cefar’s inclusion demonstrates the agency’s ability to combine creative design with technical solutions to support client marketing and business objectives.

Leeds law firm welcomes 11 new legal specialists

Tess Egginton
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Leeds law firm welcomes 11 new legal specialists
Law firm Ward Hadaway has appointed 11 legal specialists across its Leeds office. The new hires join a wide range of departments, including real estate, debt recovery & insolvency, employment, private client and social housing. They include directors, associates, solicitors and paralegals. The appointments include Hanaan Mohammed (associate, construction), directors Ian Abel (employment) and Scott Nodder (debt recovery & insolvency), and Emilia Nowicka (solicitor, real estate). The matrimonial team has also grown with managing associate Greg Cross. This latest round of recruitment follows the opening of Ward Hadaway’s Birmingham office earlier this year and the recent merger with Teesside-based The Endeavour Partnership. Emma Digby, executive partner in Ward Hadaway’s Leeds office, said: “Leeds is an increasingly important centre for business and legal services and we’re investing in the talent and expertise to reflect that. “These appointments strengthen our ability to support clients in the region across a wide range of sectors and highlight our commitment to continuing to grow with the Yorkshire business community.”

£37m Leeds student accommodation scheme completes

Tess Egginton
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£37m Leeds student accommodation scheme completes
Contractor Clegg Construction has handed over a £37m student accommodation scheme in Leeds ready for the new academic year. The Fabric Works in Leylands Road is a 402-studio block featuring study space, a cinema lounge and media room, fitness studio and gym, courtyard, bike storage, private dining room, and shared communal space with pool tables and a dry bar area. Delivered in partnership with PPG Leeds Ltd, a joint venture between Primus Property Group and HIG Capital, The Fabric Works is situated next to Spinners Yard – a 185-apartment build-to-rent development that was completed by Clegg Construction earlier this year for property developer Rise Homes. Michael Sims, managing director at Clegg Construction, said: “Clegg Construction was proud to have been appointed to deliver The Fabric Works and we’re very pleased to have handed it over on time, as per our original and planned programme of work, and ready for the 2025/2026 academic year. “This scheme provides modern and stylish accommodation in a thriving area of Leeds and is ideally situated for the city’s three universities. “It adds to our growing portfolio of significant developments in Leeds, cementing our position as a key contractor helping to shape the city.” The wider project team which delivered The Fabric Works included Tim Groom Architects, Ridge and Partners, Strive, KKA Studio, Quartz Project Services, and Innov8 Development Solutions. As part of the delivery of The Fabric Works, Clegg Construction undertook a range of commitments to the local community including hosting multiple visits from Leeds College of Building students, significant donations to Blessed of the Father Food Bank, and contact with members of the neighbourhood via newsletters, a noticeboard, letter drops and in-person visits from the site team. Clegg Construction has also worked with Community Wood Recycling for wood waste management and Wren Bakery, which uses baking and coffee as tools to provide disadvantaged women with opportunities towards employment.

Leeds United extends partnership with energy installer BOXT

April Lara
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Leeds United extends partnership with energy installer BOXT

Leeds United has renewed its official partnership with BOXT for the 2025/26 season. The Leeds-based energy company, founded in 2017, will continue supporting the Leeds United Foundation Soccer Camp programme, providing children with access to sport and community initiatives during school holidays.

BOXT offers an online platform for home energy solutions, including boilers, solar panels, air conditioning systems, heat pumps, home storage batteries, and EV chargers. The company operates a network of over 15,000 registered engineers across the UK, providing fixed-price quotes and a simplified purchasing process.

The partnership will maintain funding and logistical support for the Soccer Camps, delivering activities designed to engage and inspire young participants across Leeds. BOXT also continues to strengthen its connection with local communities through this collaboration.

As part of the renewed agreement, Leeds United supporters can access BOXT promotions, including a £50 discount on boiler and air conditioning installations and a £200 discount on solar panel purchases.

The extension of the partnership reinforces BOXT’s position in the home energy sector and highlights the club’s commitment to community engagement through its foundation programmes.

Employers urged to provide work experience for young people with SEND

April Lara
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Employers urged to provide work experience for young people with SEND

Businesses in Hull and East Riding are being encouraged to offer work experience placements to young people with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND).

Sewell Group, a member of the Hull and East Riding SEND Employment Forum, has been running placements for SEND students and has developed a toolkit to guide other employers. The resource outlines practical steps for creating meaningful experiences and supporting students throughout their placements.

The forum focuses on improving employment outcomes for young people with SEND aged 14 to 24 across the region. Companies participating in placements report increased confidence and skills development among students, while also benefiting from fresh perspectives and talent.

The SEND toolkit is available free of charge for employers considering offering placements and includes guidance on planning, workplace adjustments, and collaboration with local schools.

Yorkshire and Humber sees both start-up and insolvency-related activity fall

Tess Egginton
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Yorkshire and Humber sees both start-up and insolvency-related activity fall
The number of new businesses launched in Yorkshire and the Humber fell in August, while insolvency-related activity also declined, according to new analysis from R3, the UK’s restructuring, turnaround and insolvency trade body. R3’s latest figures, based on data from Creditsafe, show that business start-ups across Yorkshire and the Humber dropped by 11.3% in August compared to July, falling from 4,728 to 4,192. The region mirrored a national picture of declining start-up activity. Every UK nation and region saw a fall in August, with the sharpest drops in the North West (-13.3%), East Anglia (-10.3%) and Northern Ireland (-10.2%). Yorkshire and the Humber also saw insolvency-related activity decline by 12.8% between July and August. The downward trend was reflected elsewhere, with falls recorded in the North East (-19%), East Anglia (-18.3%) and Greater London (-14.6%). Wales was the only part of the UK to see an increase in insolvency-related activity (+22.8%). Dave Broadbent, chair of R3 in Yorkshire and a partner at Begbies Traynor in York and Teesside, said: “It’s disappointing to see start-up numbers dip after three months of growth, although this may reflect seasonal factors as well as wider economic headwinds. “At the same time, the fall in insolvency-related activity should be treated with caution. Many businesses are still facing significant challenges, from rising interest rates and stubborn inflation to higher employers’ National Insurance contributions and the recent increase in the minimum wage, all of which are squeezing cashflow. “For firms in sectors with already tight margins, such as retail, hospitality and construction, these pressures remain severe.” He added: “The withdrawal of pandemic support still casts a long shadow, with some firms carrying debts they are struggling to service. Seeking expert advice early is crucial – the sooner a company addresses the warning signs, the more options it has to resolve its problems and safeguard its future.”

Bolser appoints new leadership to strengthen growth and client delivery

April Lara
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Bolser appoints new leadership to strengthen growth and client delivery

Digital agency Bolser has implemented a new management structure to support its next phase of development. Founder and CEO Ashley Bolser will concentrate on advancing AI capabilities across the business and client projects.

Dominic Howe, who has been with Bolser for 22 years, has been promoted from Client Services Director to Managing Director. He will take responsibility for operational management and strategic oversight while maintaining the agency’s client-focused approach.

Jen Driver joins as Client Services Director, returning to Bolser after seven years at Leeds-based agency Zeal. She brings more than a decade of experience in client services and digital strategy, having previously worked on complex software projects at Bolser.

The leadership changes aim to enhance the agency’s integrated service offering, strengthen client relationships, and support continued growth. Bolser plans to leverage its renewed focus on AI and operational excellence to deliver advanced solutions for blue-chip clients.

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