Energy-intensive businesses could get energy bills slashed by 20%

Stuart Pearcey
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Energy-intensive businesses could get energy bills slashed by 20%
Energy-intensive businesses and heat network operators have one month left to apply for government support that could see wholesale energy bills slashed by as much as a fifth. Consumer Energy Minister Amanda Solloway today called on eligible businesses to act now to benefit from the support available through the Energy Bills Discount Scheme. Companies have until July 25th to apply, with discounts applied to their bills until April next year. The scheme was put in place to keep costs down by offering a higher rate of support for those using significant amounts of energy to deliver their services and goods – such as ceramic and textile firms. These companies are exposed to strong international competition, meaning they can’t raise their prices to cover the increase in costs they’ve faced. Minister Solloway also issued a reminder to heat network operators that they have a legal requirement to apply, to ensure a fair deal for their customers who would otherwise face higher energy bills compared to those covered by the energy price cap.  If no action is taken, they could face a fine of up to £5,000. Amanda Solloway said: “Today marks one month to go for businesses and heat network operators to apply for support that could cut their energy bills by as much as a fifth – I would urge all of those who haven’t already to set time aside, check they are eligible, and get their details registered.

“Energy prices are falling but we will continue to stand by businesses and do all we can to help and make sure they remain competitive in a challenging market, as we have done over the winter.”

Rob Flello, Chief Executive of the British Ceramic Confederation, said: “Energy costs have dominated many conversations with our members over the past year, and remain a concern. Therefore, we appreciate that the government has recognised the issues faced by the UK ceramics sector and other energy intensive industries.

“We are strongly advising our members to apply, even if their current energy prices are below the activation thresholds, to help cushion any future price hikes ahead of or during next winter. We are also highlighting the process and its deadline in the hope that it will be a smooth process.”

Businesses that become classed as an Energy and Trade Intensive Industry after the window closes will have 90 days from the first date they can apply to submit an application for support. Businesses in ceramics and textiles are among a wide range of sectors that have been able to claim further discounts on their bills between 1 April 2023 and 31 March 2024 – helping deliver on the government’s priority to halve inflation. So far the government has provided nearly £40 billion to households and businesses to help with their energy bills, which has also helped efforts to bear down on inflation. Businesses are advised to check GOV.UK as soon as possible to find out their eligibility and what they need to do to apply. Support will be backdated to 1 April and could save some around 20% on predicted wholesale energy costs. Heat networks with domestic customers can also receive a sector-specific support rate to make sure households do not face disproportionately higher bills compared to customers supported by the Energy Price Guarantee. Heat suppliers are legally required to apply for this support and pass on the discount to their customers. If heat network operators do not apply for the scheme then enforcement action can be taken. Should a heat supplier fail to undertake any corrective action they may face a penalty of up to £5,000.

Urban living in Grimsby Town Centre takes step forward

Tess Egginton
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Urban living in Grimsby Town Centre takes step forward
A vision to create modern, smart homes on a riverside setting in Grimsby’s town centre are taking a step forward. Following discussions between North East Lincolnshire Council and Homes England, central Government funding has been agreed to allow investigative work to take place at Alexandra Dock. This will centre on six-acres of council-owned land behind the new Horizon OnSide Youth Zone and next to the remodelled Garth Lane bridge and walkway alongside the water. Around two weeks of specialist contract work, which starts on Monday 3 July, will determine the land type and what is beneath the surface – essential investigations ahead of preparing the site further. This area was earmarked for homes in Grimsby’s Town Centre Masterplan – cited as an ideal location given the water nearby and the improvements that have already taken place. Cllr Philip Jackson, leader of the council with responsibilities for the economy, net zero, skills and housing, said: “The main objective of this work is to create a place that connects the town and its community with its waterside, creating a fantastic urban living environment that’s kind to the planet. “There’s a long way to go yet, and developments of this scale don’t happen overnight. But we are working to improve the town centre as a whole and this is part of that vision. Step-by-step we want to change how our centre is used and enjoyed as a whole.”

Bradford’s unique Peace Museum to move to Salts Mill

Tess Egginton
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Bradford’s unique Peace Museum to move to Salts Mill

Bradford’s Peace Museum is relocating to Salts Mill and will reopen in the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Saltaire next summer.

The Peace Museum was previously based in Piece Hall Yard in Bradford city centre and its expansion will enable it to showcase more of its extensive collection. The move is supported by a £245,651 grant from the National Lottery Heritage Fund.

Property solicitor and head of LCF Law’s real estate department, Harriet Thornton advised The Peace Museum on moving to its new premises in Salts Mill. The new museum will open in summer 2024, ahead of the launch of Bradford’s 2025 City of Culture year.

The Peace Museum opened in 1998 and is the UK’s only museum dedicated to peace. It’s full of fascinating artefacts ranging from protest banners, flags and posters that have been used to promote the peace movement over the decades. It also works with schools on projects looking at issues such as conscientious objectors and how animals were used during wars.

Clive Barrett, chair of trustees at The Peace Museum, said: “This project will be transformational for The Peace Museum. We’re delighted to have received this support thanks to National Lottery players, and so excited to have the opportunity to make the history of peace accessible to everybody.

“This is particularly exciting in light of Bradford receiving City of Culture for 2025, as we’ll be able to welcome visitors from all over the world to our brand-new museum in the heart of the district.”

Helen Featherstone, director, England, North at The National Lottery Heritage Fund, said: “By opening their amazing collections in a new home that is renowned for its heritage, local people and visitors from further afield can learn more about the fascinating social history that the museum explores.

“We know that heritage can play a huge role in bringing people together and creating a sense of pride in local communities, and in turn boosting the local economy, and this work by The Peace Museum is sure to be a perfect example of that.”

Harriet Thornton said: “It’s been a privilege to work with The Peace Museum and help them secure new premises in one of the UK’s most famous mill complexes. Its new home will make the museum much more accessible as well as attracting many more visitors and we’re looking forward to their launch next summer.”

Hull’s Springfield Solutions acquired by global group

Tess Egginton
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0
Hull’s Springfield Solutions acquired by global group
All4Labels Global Packaging Group is continuing its global growth strategy through its acquisition of Hull-based Springfield Solutions, a supplier of digital packaging assets to some of the world’s leading brands. The company will become a subsidiary of the All4Labels Group. Terms and conditions of the transaction were not disclosed. With this transaction, All4Labels continues its strategy of building a leading business unit in the United Kingdom, which started with the acquisition of Olympus Print Group (All4Labels UK Leeds Ltd.) as its first subsidiary in Leeds over a year ago. Dr. Günther Weymans, All4Labels’ COO, said: “We are happy to welcome the entire Springfield Solutions team as new members of the All4Labels Global Packaging Group. “We believe that Springfield Solutions with their vision to be a world leader in the supply of innovative and sustainable digital packaging assets complements our digital business perfectly. “With both our sites in the UK All4Labels will now be able to offer a wider range of products and services to an even broader range of customers both locally and on an international level. Finally, I would like to thank all parties involved for their trust and valuable support in this project.” The Springfield Solutions owners and management team will continue to manage the business. Matt Dass, Managing Director of Springfield Solutions, said: “We are extremely excited to join the All4Labels Global Packaging Group, from our very first discussion it was clear that our vision, mission and values are completely aligned. “Partnering with All4Labels and its packaging design unit All4Graphics will accelerate our joint vision of being the World Leader in the Supply of Sustainable, Digital Packaging Assets.” The founder of Springfield Solutions, Albert Dass, added: “Since starting the company nearly 50 years ago, it has been a life’s ambition to pioneer the way print and packaging is produced, with digital being at the core of everything we do. Joining the All4Labels Group will ensure we continue to do this for the next 50 years.”

Warwick Ward makes the move to employee ownership

Tess Egginton
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Warwick Ward makes the move to employee ownership
Barnsley-headquartered Warwick Ward has joined an ever increasing list of UK companies to make the transition to being Employee Owned. Owners Ashley and Matthew Ward, as part of their long-term succession planning strategy, have sold a majority of their shares to a newly formed EOT (employee owned trust) Warwick Ward EOT Ltd. Warwick Ward was founded in 1970 and has grown into one of the largest stockists and suppliers of new and used earthmoving and waste recycling equipment, and spare parts in Europe. Ashley Ward, joint Managing Director at Warwick Ward, said: “This is an incredibly exciting new chapter for Warwick Ward (machinery) Ltd as we approach our 54th year of trading. “Over the past 6 years or so my brother and I have been working on a succession plan for the future of the business and after a lot of research and consideration we feel that the EOT model is a perfect fit for both the business, our brand partners and for ourselves. “It provides motivation for the staff, stability and continuity and ensures the legacy of Warwick Ward continues in the way we want it to. “It’s important to say that this will be a gradual transition with Matt and myself still involved in the business. “Over a substantial period of time, we have worked hard to put in place a fantastic senior leadership team in Simon Causier (commercial director), Matthew Godhard (operations director) and Russell Holmes (finance director) who are pivotal and responsible for the day to day running of the business. “Matt and I continue to work closely with the senior team during this transition. “The EOT model is incredibly exciting and motivational for all our driven and dedicated team as they are now all employee owners in the business, have representation on the trust board and will profit individually from the future success of the company.” Simon Causier, commercial director at Warwick Ward, said: “Having now been part of the management team for the last 15 years, it has been fantastic to have been part of the exciting and successful journey that the company has been on over that period. “The way the business has evolved and grown over recent times has been phenomenal and I think everyone at Warwick Ward has a huge amount of pride in the company and utmost respect for Matt and Ashley and how they have strategically shaped the business since taking over from their father 23 years ago. “The transition to being an EOT is a fantastic and exciting opportunity for all the staff and senior management team to now play a pivotal role in the future success and continued growth of Warwick Ward and we are all thrilled at the opportunities that lie ahead.”

University runs first ever entrepreneur exchange

Tess Egginton
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University runs first ever entrepreneur exchange
The University of York has held its first ever entrepreneur exchange in Greece – helping three businesses from North Yorkshire create potential overseas investment opportunities.

Enterprise Works, the University’s small business hub, led the exchange which saw the three business leaders head to Thessaloniki for the networking event.

Thessaloniki, the second largest city in Greece, boasts a population of 1.2 million. Situated in the heart of the Balkan Peninsula in SE Europe, it is the home of CITY College, University of York Europe Campus, part of the University of York community since 2021.

Utilising the local knowledge and links by the University and CITY College, University of York Europe Campus, the entrepreneurs were given an expert introduction to the local markets and 1-2-1 meetings with a range of relevant local businesses.

They also attended the European Business Angels Network annual congress, held in Thessaloniki, where they accessed a range of specialist investment advice and access to the business community.

The exchange, which was organised through CITY College, University of York Europe Campus, based in Thessaloniki, saw Nature’s Laboratory, TestCard and Asclepius Healthcare, take part in the three-day event.

TestCard is a digital platform technology company based in Scarborough that allows accurate reading, recording, and reporting of medical test results. Asclepius Healthcare, based in Wetherby, provides an innovative solution to improve the quality of surgical care through better risk stratification and enhanced postoperative monitoring. Nature’s Laboratory, based in Scarborough, develop sustainable and effective natural medicines, including plant medicines, bee medicines and skincare.

Julie Macey-Hewitt, operations manager at TestCard, said: “As an ambitious company with a strong growth record, we were delighted to be selected to join this exchange. The existing in-country links meant that we could engage with a number of major potential-client companies, build relationships and expand our investor opportunities.

“It’s so valuable to regional businesses to have the University playing an active role in supporting small business and using its global links to create growth opportunities.”

Director of Enterprise Works, Sam Gardner, said: “Enterprise Works’ role is to create opportunities for anyone, from any community, to be entrepreneurial – whether that’s in their own community, through a charity, or in starting and growing a business.

“We’re delighted to be able to use the University’s strong global links to support our region’s entrepreneurs and look forward to building links with the thriving business community in Thessaloniki and the South East European region.”

Pro-Vice-Chancellor for Partnerships and Engagement, Prof Kiran Trehan, said: “We are building strong, collaborative partnerships in York and around the world.

“By promoting collaboration beyond disciplinary boundaries, and with diverse people and entities from across society, for and with our local and business community we can create a thriving local economy that retains talent in the region, and enables global competitiveness.”

There will be a continuing relationship between the University and the entrepreneurs, who will be sharing their expertise, stories and experience with the student and local entrepreneurial communities. Given the success of this pilot programme the university is exploring opportunities to provide a similar venture to Greece, and with other global partners next year.

Logistics platform acquires Tuffnells out of administration

Tess Egginton
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0
Logistics platform acquires Tuffnells out of administration
Shift, a UK-based logistics platform, has acquired Tuffnells out of administration via an asset purchase of its IP, brand and selected assets, for an undisclosed amount. Tuffnells, one of the UK’s largest delivery firms, was placed into administration on 12 June 2023 with the loss of more than 2,000 jobs, after it failed to successfully navigate a number of pressures which impacted trading, including Covid, high cost inflation, and an increasingly competitive market. Rick Harrison and Howard Smith from Interpath Advisory were appointed joint administrators to Tuffnells. Headquartered in Sheffield and with 33 depots across the UK, privately-owned Tuffnells specialises in the distribution of mixed freight and handling items of irregular dimension and weight (IDW) throughout the UK. For the year ending 31 December 2021, Tuffnells generated revenue of £178.1 million, with an operating profit of £2.3 million, 24% higher than the previous year. Shift is a British-based technology company with global ambition. Founded in 2017 by Jacob Corlett, Chief Executive Officer, the company is transforming the delivery and logistics industry through its tech-based platform, creating an on-demand delivery marketplace. Jacob Corlett, CEO of Shift, said: “We are delighted to announce today that we have acquired Tuffnells out of administration and we are in the process of incorporating the business into our tech-based logistics platform. “Tuffnells is one of the UK’s most recognisable logistics companies, which provides delivery services to over 4,000 businesses across the UK and this acquisition will significantly increase our logistics coverage across the country. “The acquisition supports our vision for Shift’s tech-driven logistics platform to disrupt both consumer and business logistics, through cutting edge AI driven routing decisions and driver management efficiency. We are also currently in dialogue with relevant parties to enable us to reopen some depots and provide re-employment opportunities.” Richard Harrison, Managing Director at Interpath Advisory and joint administrator, said: “We are pleased to have concluded this transaction which secures the future of one of the UK’s longest standing and well-recognised courier brands, as well helping to facilitate an opportunity for the purchaser to generate a number of jobs. “I would like to take this opportunity to thank all the employees and other stakeholders who have supported us throughout the administration process to date.”

Business Leaders discuss what’s needed to drive Hull’s regeneration

Stuart Pearcey
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Business Leaders discuss what’s needed to drive Hull’s regeneration
Business leaders have discussed what’s needed to drive the regeneration of the UK during a meeting with shadow business secretary Jonathan Reynolds in Hull. The head of one of East Yorkshire’s leading SMEs said his organisation is eager to see a change of government at the next general election having thrived under previous Labour governments and now feeling let down by empty promises of levelling up. Gerard Toplass, another key figure as group CEO of The 55 Group, hosted the visit at the headquarters in the Old Town of Hull. He said he was impressed with Mr Reynolds’ commitment to work with businesses to rebuild Britain. Accompanied by Hull West and Hessle MP Emma Hardy, Mr Reynolds welcomed nearly 20 corporate heavyweights and leaders of business organisations to a lunch and later returned to Bar 55 to meet some of the rising stars of the regional business community. He also visited Centres for Digital Innovation, set up in Hull’s Fruit Market areas as a group of incubators to help tech companies grow and traditional businesses innovate. Mr Reynolds said: “I have one of the most interesting jobs in the shadow government, having the chance to visit any business in the country working on Labour’s economic policies. “It’s been fantastic visiting Hull and you have so much to be proud of here with carbon capture and storage and companies working on technology to measure how people are heating their homes. “My job is to listen and learn and try to put forward policies that will help. I can’t run people’s businesses for them but hopefully I can influence the business environment in which they work.” He told the young entrepreneurs: “You are going to live through a time of incredible change and incredible opportunity. You should not be nostalgic for the past but you should seek to want to make the most of the changes. Many of the big economic and social problems we face are the result of not handling change well. “The deal that younger people in the UK have right now compared to previous generations is a far less attractive one. We need to engage with younger people in the political system and appeal for people of all ages to care about the political system.”

Planning permissions secured for ground-breaking renewable-focused hub

Tess Egginton
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Planning permissions secured for ground-breaking renewable-focused hub
Planning has been granted for Projekt Renewable to land in Grimsby. Supported by myenergi, RWE Renewables UK and the Town Deal, phase one of this ground-breaking scheme promises not only to celebrate the opportunities presented by sustainable energy production in the area and be a catalyst for the green economic regeneration of the town but also to bridge the gap between industry and community with a summer offering for everyone to enjoy.
With the aim of bringing together Grimsby’s celebrated small businesses this summer in a pop-up style programme of events, Projekt Renewable will ensure this hub of discovery is the centre of attention during the coast’s high season this year. An immersive educational and cultural destination, Projekt Renewable will be landing – quite literally – in Alexandra Dock within a matter of weeks. Projekt director, Richard Askam, added: “It’s taken two years of hard work to get to this stage and now, over the next weeks, we’ll bring Phase One of Projekt Renewable to life. Designed to allow everyone to see and hear the opportunity that already exists in our area but is still largely hidden. “It’s time to write the next chapter in Grimsby’s history, and that is as a world leader in renewable energy. A huge thank you goes out to everyone that has been involved and supported so far, especially Richard Dowson who has been instrumental in getting Projekt off the ground.” North East Lincolnshire Council leader, Cllr Philip Jackson, said: “On behalf of everyone at the council, I would like to thank all the individuals and partners who have had the vision and determination to make Projekt Renewable a reality. “The success of our young people will define North East Lincolnshire’s future and we need them to see the opportunities that are on their doorsteps and be inspired to take those opportunities. Projekt Renewable will do just that.” The driving force behind the delivery of Projekt Renewable is WhiteCrate – the container architecture design and production company – having successfully delivered many projects, pushing the boundaries and perceptions of the humble shipping container and creating destinations and spaces, throughout the UK and Europe; including innovative markets in Altrincham and Wolverhampton, Hatch in Manchester and even the Fan Park at Liverpool FC. And while residents and visitors are being urged to soak up the summer programme, local music and pop-up food and drinks vendors that appear, Jon Flowerdew, Managing Director at WhiteCrate Ltd, explains that this is the tip of the iceberg when it comes to the goals, they have set for Projekt Renewable. “WhiteCrate is incredibly proud to be delivering this transformative regeneration project in Grimsby, as we work together to create a vibrant new destination,” said Jon. “It is a testament to the vision and dedication of all involved that we are shaping a future where communities can thrive, and where Grimsby can shine a light on its thriving renewable energy industry and the opportunities it creates for the region and the UK.
“This project represents WhiteCrate’s commitment to revitalising urban spaces, fostering economic growth, and creating a lasting legacy and destination that will benefit generations to come.” The first step in a phased destination project, created to inspire young minds and the local community, the launch and summer programme are just the beginning of what will be an ever-evolving narrative. Emma Brigginshaw, Head of Sustainability and Ethics at myenergi, said: “At myenergi, we are focused on removing the barriers to a greener future. Our mission is a commitment to pioneering a simple transition to renewable energy, so we are passionate about showcasing the benefits of renewable energy and showing people how they can harness these benefits for themselves, to gain greater energy independence. “We are proud to support Projekt Renewable, which will not only help educate and inspire future talent and the local community but thanks to its facilities, will be able to share this message with a much bigger audience nationwide.” Guy Middleton, General Manager for the RWE Grimsby Hub, added: “As a founding patron of Projekt Renewable, we are delighted to have reached this important milestone for the project. “Projekt Renewable is such an important resource for the local region and the wider renewables industry and we are so excited to be a part of it! It is vital that we can demonstrate what the renewables industry has to offer the younger generation and encourage them to consider roles in our industry if we are going to meet our net zero targets.” Chloe McKeown, Social Media and Marketing Manager at Mockingbird Street Food, said: “This project is something Mockingbird would love to wholeheartedly champion. A celebration of both Grimsby’s rich history and its exciting future within the renewable energy industry, we love the community focus at the core of Projekt Renewable. “As a company, Mockingbird are fully committed to all things ‘Great Grimsby’ and it’s fantastic to see the plans in place to raise youth aspirations within Grimsby and beyond, which will without doubt inspire the next generation of very proud, successful Grimbarians. “The message that Grimsby and its surrounding areas are cool and accessible, but also aspirational is something we try to regularly promote as part of our brand ethos, and something we are delighted that Projekt Renewable shares.”
The team and patrons supporting Projekt Renewable aim to bring emerging careers in renewables to life with an immersive experience that the community and schools can get deeply involved with. VR experiences and hands-on demonstrations of the jobs available in the Humber ‘energy estuary’ will be housed in the trio of containers, which will also function as workspaces for local businesses and creatives. The Projekt team is also looking to launch their own Projekt-podcast utilising the on-site studio. Hosted by Richard Askam in the first instance, the podcast will shine a light on those already invested and working within the renewables sector and also showcase how the local community can create user-generated content, powerful in its own right, allowing the people to ‘own’ the space and connect with it on a deeper level. Officially supported by the home-grown talent that is to be found at RWE Renewables UK, myenergi, North East Lincolnshire Council, the Crown Estate, WhiteCrate, Forrester Boyd, Wilkin Chapman, Knapton Wright, Docks Academy and Mockingbird, the collective vision is for Projekt Renewable to gain national significance. With the ability to beam into primary and secondary schools and further and higher education establishments up and down the country, but starting with the local area, Projekt Renewable plans on using hand-picked experts in the purpose-built dedicated studio to create their own PRG Studio Content. Bursting with relevant but exciting content and connecting with schools throughout the full academic year, Projekt Renewable will be bringing the renewables industry alive for school children and the younger generation, educating with purpose and creating UK homegrown talent and the next generation of renewable energy experts.

Leeds opens consultation on plans for George Street beside Kirkgate Market

Stuart Pearcey
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0
Leeds opens consultation on plans for George Street beside Kirkgate Market
Businesses in Leeds are being encouraged to help shape ambitious plans for the regeneration of the George Street side of the city centre’s historic Kirkgate Market. Leeds City Council is hoping to replace a row of vacant low-rise buildings on George Street with a six-storey development that would include a 143-room hotel as well as a state-of-the-art gym and new commercial units. Initial proposals for the scheme have been considered by the council’s city plans panel and a community consultation has now been launched so that businesses, residents, and other stakeholders get the best possible opportunity to have their say on the project. The results of the consultation – which runs until July 7 – will be used to help fine-tune a full planning application that is due for submission in the coming weeks. Councillor Jonathan Pryor, Leeds City Council’s executive member for economy, culture and education, said: “Leeds Kirkgate Market is a much-loved landmark for the people of our city, and we’re determined to give it a future that is every bit as bright as its past. “This exciting project would help us do exactly that, not only by creating a new gateway to the market from George Street but also by improving the attractiveness and vibrancy of the area as a whole. “We would encourage as many people as possible to get involved with the consultation and play their part in making the scheme a success.” The new development would complement the ongoing transformation of the area around the market, which is home to the Victoria Gate retail destination and other key sites such as the refurbished Leeds Playhouse and Leeds City College’s Quarry Hill campus. The project is also seen as a way of driving further footfall into the market, which is already attracting more than 400,000 visitors a month after benefiting from a multi-million pound investment programme. The scheme would be developed by the council, with the hotel element being run by a nationally-recognised operator. Its gym, meanwhile, would be run by the council, improving the local ‘fitness offer’ for people living in both the city centre and nearby communities. The development would create about 50 new full and part-time jobs once operational, with around 80 jobs being supported during construction.
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