JULY 2025 £3.50 YORKSHIRE & LINCOLNSHIRE’S LEADING BUSINESS MAGAZINE www.blmgroup.co.uk VOLUME 40 ISSUE 7 Unseen forces keeping offices running Innovation in design and marketing Building a workforce for tomorrowPrinting|Copying|Graphic Design LOGOS | BRANDING | BUSINESS STATIONERY FLYERS & POSTERS | BROCHURES | NEWSLETTERS A0 COPYING & SCANNING | OS MAPPING CAD & PLAN PRINTING | PRINT FINISHING High Quality Print & Design in Lincolnshire N 01522 546118 E sales@lincolncopycentre.co.uk www.lincolncopycentre.co.uk 45 YEARS IN BUSINESSThe magazine that cares We care because we want to leave our world a better place than we found it Business Link believes that being socially and environmentally responsible is the key to maintaining a flourishing business that our customers will be pleased to use and our staff will be proud to be part of. Community - From a very local point of view, we strive to be a ‘good neighbour’. We also extend that into the much broader local community, through financial support of local causes and charities. Environment - Our actions extend to: conservation of energy and natural resources, minimisation of waste and ensuring our trading partners do likewise. Welcome… With new strategies abound, from industrial to infrastructure and trade, the past month has seen a wave of proposals come forth, setting out the government’s ambitions and plans for growth, to deliver the stability businesses need to invest and create a competitive economy. Boosting business support, addressing late payments, backing exporting, fast-tracking planning, investing in skills, and injecting investment into sectors such as advanced manufacturing, clean energy, creative industries, and professional services are all amongst key points raised, providing a welcome blueprint for businesses to build on and plan from. Firms of all sizes have been clamouring for any certainty that can be granted to them in an increasingly unpredictable world. But while these strategies are all well and good on paper, now the focus should be on implementation. Behind each pledge, we need to see the true details, how and when measures will be applied, and how they will play out in practice. Whether effective results will be achieved is of course yet to be seen. If there is any hope of turning around fragile confidence amongst companies, a meaningful improvement in business conditions is vital, as pressures from all directions curb investment plans, and the forthcoming Employment Rights Bill looms as a further barrier to growth. Good reading, as always. Tess Egginton Editor Editor From thecontents july 2025 6 News The latest business news and success stories from around our region. 10 Commercial property Across Yorkshire, regeneration projects are progressing to breathe new life into towns and cities, from consultation launches to completions. 14 Business spotlight From cleaners to IT engineers, silent service providers work behind the scenes to keep workplaces safe, connected, and productive. Their role has never been more critical in supporting business performance and employee confidence. 18 Apprenticeships and training Apprenticeships are becoming an essential solution to the skills gap, with businesses and educational institutions collaborating to provide young people with valuable opportunities in growing sectors like renewable energy and engineering. These programmes are shaping the future workforce, offering hands-on learning and career progression. 22 Design and marketing In a competitive market, businesses in Yorkshire and Lincolnshire are using innovative design and data-driven strategies to captivate audiences. From engaging ad campaigns to sustainability messaging, companies are finding new ways to stand out and build lasting customer relationships. 26 IT and telecommunications With initiatives like the £58 million broadband upgrade in Nottinghamshire and West Lincolnshire and the expansion of 5G networks, the region is rapidly improving its digital infrastructure. These advancements are enabling businesses to harness new technologies, bridge the digital divide, and drive growth in an increasingly competitive market. 30 Engineering Engineering firms in Yorkshire and Lincolnshire are embracing innovation to tackle sustainability, skills shortages, and technological advancements. With growing demand in sectors like renewables and digital transformation, the region is becoming a hub for engineering excellence and creative solutions. 34 AutoLink In the car market, premium brand vehicles represent sophistication, comfort, and advanced technology. For buyers in Britain, these cars reflect success and personal style. This article examines three new premium brand models currently available, each offering a unique blend of performance, luxury, and innovative features. • We put the Lotus Evija through its paces. 40 Corporate hospitality With recruitment tough in the current climate, it’s more important than ever to show appreciation for employees. 42 Events We take a look at business events happening around Yorkshire and Lincolnshire. 46 And finally… Yorkshire-Lincolnshire- Business-Link @blmforum blmforum.net connect with us 14 22 26Group Editor Steve Fisher (s.fisher@blmgroup.co.uk) Editor Tess Egginton (t.egginton@blmgroup.co.uk) Editorial contact newsdesk@blmgroup.co.uk Tel: (01472) 310305 Fax: (01472) 310317 Sales Director Angela Cooper (a.cooper@blmgroup.co.uk) Tel: (01472) 310310 Tel: (01472) 310301 Fax: (01472) 310311 Tel: (01472) 310304 Fax: (01472) 310314 E-Mail: yorks-lincs@blmgroup.co.uk Haychart Ltd, Armstrong House, Armstrong Street, Grimsby, N.E. Lincs., DN31 2QE. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, transmitted, photocopied, recorded copyright holder, for which application should be addressed first to the publisher. While every reasonable care is taken, neither the publisher nor its damage to prints, colour transparencies, negatives or other material of whatever nature submitted to publication are not necessarily the views of those COVER PHOTOS: LOTUS • STOCK.ADOBE.COM - SOFIKO14 • VESOVIC • MIHA CREATIVE • THARES 2020 www.blmforum.net 186 Business Link www.blmforum.net East Riding businesses benefit from £1.5 million in grants and expert support East Riding businesses have received a boost through £1.5 million in grants and a range of tailored support programmes, driven by the East Riding of Yorkshire Council (ERYC). These initiatives, funded by the UK Shared Prosperity Fund (UKSPF) and the Rural England Prosperity Fund (REPF), aim to support local businesses across various sectors. The Invest East Yorkshire Business Support Services, a key element of ERYC’s offering, has been instrumental in delivering this support. The services include expert advice, networking opportunities, and workshops on key topics such as sustainability, tourism, and supply chain management. In partnership with local universities, government agencies, and private sector organisations, the team has ensured that assistance reaches businesses throughout the region, with a special focus on Bridlington and Goole. In total, 189 businesses have secured over £1.5 million in grant funding, leading to the creation of 161 new jobs. In addition, nearly 1,500 businesses have benefited from direct support, with 207 entrepreneurs becoming business-ready and 45 new ventures established. This initiative highlights the region’s dedication to promoting business growth and innovation. news Businesses scale up with new lettings at Howley Park J Pullan & Sons Ltd has completed three major lettings at Logistics Hub Howley Park Estate, totalling over 62,000 sq ft at Junction 28 of the M62 in Morley, Leeds. The largest of the deals sees Coptrin Limited expand from 40,000 sq ft to now occupy 55,740 sq ft across Units 1, 2 and 4 on a 10-year lease. The company, a major supplier of catering packaging and biodegradable products, have expanded into the new space for warehousing and distribution to meet increasing demand. Meanwhile, The Yorkshire Resin Company Limited, a long-standing tenant at Howley Park, who are specialists in the installation of resin driveways and car parks, has taken 6,662 sq ft at Unit 5, also on a 10-year lease. This marks a step up from their previous premises at the park, providing enhanced storage, showroom, and office facilities to support their continued growth. These lettings follow the recent occupation of an 18,940 sq ft unit by a national parcel delivery company. Bruce Strachan, property director at Pullans, said: “We’re thrilled that Coptrin and The Yorkshire Resin Company have chosen to expand their operations here at Howley Park. It’s a clear endorsement of the confidence our tenants have in the park as the ideal place to grow their businesses. “These lettings reflect the strength of our prime motorway location, the quality of the space we offer, and the support available through our in-house design and fit-out team, who work closely with occupiers to deliver solutions tailored to their evolving needs.” Yorkshire business confidence dips in June Business confidence in Yorkshire fell three points during June to 49%, according to the latest Business Barometer from Lloyds. While companies in Yorkshire reported higher confidence in their own business prospects month-on-month, up two points at 61%, their optimism in the economy fell nine points to 37%. Taken together, this gives a headline confidence reading of 49% (vs. 52% in May). Yorkshire businesses identified their top target areas for growth as investing in their team, for example through training (47%), evolving their offering, for example by introducing new products and services (42%), and entering new markets (34%). The Business Barometer, which surveys 1,200 businesses monthly and which has been running since 2002, provides early signals about UK economic trends both regionally and nationwide. Entrepreneurs secure funding for new venture reshaping hospitality recruitment The entrepreneurs behind two hospitality tech businesses, Sam Brown and Nick Holroyd-Doveton, have joined forces to launch a new venture that aims to reshape hospitality recruitment, raising £785,000 to further develop their matchmaking platform, Candid Hospitality. The funding came from NPIF II – Mercia Equity Finance, which is managed by Mercia Ventures and part of the Northern Powerhouse Fund II (NPIF II), Haatch and an angel investor, and marks the first NPIF II equity investment in Hull. Sam Brown was previously a director of Airship Services, which was also backed by Mercia and the first Northern Powerhouse Investment Fund and was sold to Zonal in 2022, while Nick Holroyd-Doveton co-founded Omnifi, which was sold to Access Group in 2021.www.blmforum.net Business Link 7 news Luxury lodges in Lincolnshire hit the market for £5m A portfolio of 32 luxury holiday lodges at Belton Woods Hotel, Spa and Golf Resort in Lincolnshire has been put up for sale, with offers expected in the region of £5 million. The properties, which were previously part of De Vere and are now under the QHotels Collection, are set within a freehold site of over 27.9 acres. The lodges offer a mix of detached and semi-detached units, designed to accommodate between six and eight people. With three distinct layout configurations, each lodge is equipped with holiday home amenities and features a two-floor design that provides expansive southerly views. The location, on the western edge of the resort, offers an ideal setting for leisure developments, and the portfolio presents significant potential for businesses seeking to enter the holiday letting market. The site is easily accessible and positioned in a picturesque area near Grantham, with transport links to major cities including Lincoln and Nottingham. This sale presents a unique opportunity for investors and developers looking to capitalise on the growing demand in the holiday market. Mayor unveils £12m boost to skills training across West Yorkshire More than a hundred guests gathered at Leeds Civic Hall to celebrate inspirational adult learners from across West Yorkshire, as Mayor Tracy Brabin announced £12m to expand skills and training opportunities across the region. The West Yorkshire Adult Learner Awards, now in its second year running, recognised the exceptional achievements of learners aged nineteen and over who have transformed their lives through adult education. The £12m uplift in skills funding, set to deliver courses up to July 2026, will be split between basic skills and employment-focused training. This includes opportunities to gain essential English, Maths, Digital and ESOL (English for Speakers of Other Languages) qualifications, alongside Sector- based Work Academy Programmes (SWAPs) in industries like health and social care, and construction. The funding is a part of Mayor Brabin’s £65m Adult Skills Fund, which is supporting over 40,000 learners year on year to better their lives through training and work. Shipley car cover manufacturer secures grant funding A Shipley business which manufactures specialist covers for vehicles has secured a grant from the Shipley Towns Fund, to invest in equipment. Specialised Covers Limited is a family-run business established in 1981. The 50- strong team is based at a production facility on Dockfield Road. The £7,364 grant from the Shipley Towns Fund, and support from the Council’s Invest in Bradford team, will enable the business to invest in updated hardware and software to improve capacity and accelerate growth. Commercial manager Veronica Jeffries said: “As part of our ongoing business development, we’re launching a new website which will have a 3D configurator enabling customers to see their tailored cover prior to purchase. “And we are also looking to increase our export business enabling sales growth with our improved website supplying our products internationally. It’s an exciting time of growth for our business and the investment from the Shipley Towns Fund is definitely welcome.” Bradford Council’s lead member for regeneration, transport and planning, Alex Ross-Shaw said: “It is always rewarding to see the support of the Council’s Invest In Bradford team translate into tangible success for businesses. This is an exciting business with a lot of potential for growth and we wish them every success.” Chair of the Shipley Towns Fund, Gill Thornton added: “This is a success for another interesting business based in Shipley. It is fantastic to see a company like this – which has a really quality, specialist offering – flourish and make such good use of the funding. We’re delighted the Towns Fund is able to support them in this way.” The S Covers team at workNew homes get green light in village near Hull East Riding Councillors have given the green light for 173 new homes in the village of Elloughton. Planning committee members voted unanimously to approve plans from York-based housebuilder Persimmon for a mix of homes on land off Welton Low Road. The land is allocated for housing in the East Riding Local Plan. A mix of homes will be provided including bungalows and houses ranging from 1 to 4 bed properties. 26 of the new homes will be transferred to a registered housing provider. All properties will be fitted solar panels and EV chargers. Residents will also benefit from over 2.5 acres of public open space which will include the retention and enhancement of the Roman road with information boards detailing the history of the road. The developer is contributing over half a million pounds of funding in the local area including money towards education and two new football pitches to be given to the Council. Graham Whiteford, planning director at Persimmon Yorkshire, said: “We’re pleased that Councillors have approved these plans for high quality new homes for local people.” 8 Business Link www.blmforum.net Leeds company raises £10m to scale rapid robotic grid upgrade tech AssetCool, a Leeds-based deep tech company pioneering advanced robotics and coatings for power lines, has raised £10m in a Series A funding round backed by global energy investors. The oversubscribed round was led by Energy Impact Partners (EIP), with participation from Extantia Capital, Taronga Group and existing investor Northern Powerhouse Investment Fund, managed by Mercia Ventures. This new funding builds on the support of additional investors including Kero Development Partners and Northern Gritstone. AssetCool addresses one of the most pressing bottlenecks in today’s energy transition: grid congestion. As demand for electricity surges, grid operators are under increasing pressure to boost transmission capacity quickly and affordably. At the same time, the existing infrastructure is aging, and conventional methods to increase capacity, whilst critical for the energy transition, are slow, costly, and logistically challenging. AssetCool’s coating platform offers an alternative – capable of increasing the capacity of overhead lines by up to 30% at a fraction of the cost of conventional methods. news Intellectual property firm lets floor at Leeds office building Catella APAM, the real estate asset and investment manager, has secured a 10-year letting to HGF, one of Europe’s leading intellectual property firms, at 1 City Square, Leeds. Acting on behalf of Danish pension fund Britannia Invest, Catella APAM has let the fourth floor of the building. Chalwe Silwizya, senior asset manager at Catella APAM, said: “We are pleased to welcome HGF to One City Square, following the successful completion of our Cat A refurbishment on the 4th floor. “This letting underscores the building’s strong appeal to global occupiers and reflects continued tenant demand for high-quality, Grade A office space, as the ‘flight to quality’ trend continues to drive market activity.” Fox Lloyd Jones acted for Catella APAM, with Newmark representing HGF. Recognise Bank completes £1.79m bridging loan for Lincolnshire developer Recognise Bank has completed a gross £1.795 million bridging loan across multiple industrial sites and land in Lincolnshire for an established development and construction business. Completed in partnership with Archway Capital Partners, the facility will allow the developer to maximise sales values across the commercial units on the sites. The borrower, part of a family owned group, recently completed two industrial sites across Lincolnshire and two landbank sites. The bespoke bridging facility structured by lending managers, Ian Fields & Heather Mitchell, provided the client with a short-term solution to allow time for asset sales and to support their strategic development pipeline in the future. Sam Monk, director at Archway Capital Partners, said: “It has been a great pleasure to work with Ian, Heather and Stephen.”www.blmforum.net Business Link 9 news Hull occupational health services provider expands with acquisition Latus Group, the Hull-based providers of occupational health services, has acquired Peritus Health Management. The acquisition, which was supported by NorthEdge private equity, represents a strategic consolidation within the sector and significantly scales Latus Group’s capacity and geographical reach. Peritus is a provider of occupational health, health surveillance and occupational hygiene services and has delivered consistent growth of 20% year- on-year for the last five years. Amanda Dowson, founder of Peritus, brings over 30 years of occupational health and safety management expertise as a Specialist Practitioner and Chartered Member of IOSH. She’s a long-standing committee member of the Yorkshire Branch IOSH Group. Julian Dowson, an Occupational Hygienist and Peritus Director, specialises in practical health risk management through robust controls and workplace monitoring. Vivergo Fuels faces closure as US trade deal disrupts bioethanol production Vivergo Fuels, the UK’s largest bioethanol producer, is at a crossroads following the recent UK-US trade deal. The Hull-based plant, which turns locally grown wheat into bioethanol, is on the brink of shutting down due to the removal of tariffs on US ethanol imports. The deal has made it impossible for Vivergo to compete with the cheaper, heavily subsidised US ethanol, and without government intervention, the plant could cease production before September 13. The company, owned by Associated British Foods (ABF), has begun talks with the UK Government, recognising the strategic importance of maintaining a domestic bioethanol supply. These negotiations offer some hope, but Vivergo has already started consulting with its 160-strong workforce about the potential closure. The plant is not only a major bioethanol producer but also the UK’s largest animal feed production site, indirectly supporting thousands of jobs across the Humber and Lincolnshire regions. The Government has pledged to continue working closely with Vivergo to explore solutions and protect both jobs and supply chains, but the clock is ticking for the plant’s future. £190m of investment completed in South Yorkshire Nearly £190m of investment has been completed in South Yorkshire over the last two years backing capital projects and Investment Zone activity supporting business expansion, new housebuilding, improvements to transport infrastructure and flood prevention. A total of £181m from South Yorkshire Mayoral Combined Authority’s (SYMCA) Capital Investment Programme has supported the completion of projects across South Yorkshire, working with local partners, to create a wealthier, healthier, happier and safer region. A meeting of the SYMCA Board heard the investment supported the completion of 22 projects in South Yorkshire in 2024/25 – totalling £39m. The investment brings the total to 62 completed projects in South Yorkshire worth £181m over the past two years. A further 148 projects across South Yorkshire are now being delivered or are in the development stages – with investment totalling more than £742.7m including Barnsley Health on the High Street, Doncaster Waterfront, Rotherham Mainline Station and the Castle Project in Sheffield. Further investment has come from the Investment Zone – the first Investment Zone (IZ) in the UK. In its first year of activity 2024-25, £8m of SYMCA investment brought in £71m of private investment.Next >