DECEMBER 2021 £3.50 YORKSHIRE & LINCOLNSHIRE’S LEADING BUSINESS MAGAZINE www.blmgroup.co.uk VOLUME 36 ISSUE 12 ENGINEERING Re-engineering for Net Zero PORTS AND LOGISTICS Levelling up INVOICE AND FINANCE SOLUTIONS Financial lifelines OVERCOMING ADVERSITY OVERCOMING ADVERSITY 01.qxp_Layout 1 01/12/2021 16:15 Page 1ISO/IEC 17020 / ISO 9001 / ISO 14001 / OHSAS 18001 For all enquiries please TELEPHONE: 01469 575728 | Email: ukinfo@irisndt.com www.irisndt.co.uk CHATHAM | DERBY | ELLESMERE PORT | HULL | IMMINGHAM PEMBROKE DOCK | STOCKTON-ON-TEES ADVANCED NDT • Remote Robotic Inspections – Visual & UT • Drone Surveys – Internal and External • Laser Scanning • Phased Array Ultrasonic Testing • Time of Flight Diffraction (TOFD) • AUT & PAUT Corrosion Mapping • Tube Inspection (IRIS, ECT, RFT, NFA) • Guided Wave Testing – Long Range UT • QSR1 – Corrosion Under Pipe Supports • MFL – Tank Floors and Pipelines • HTHA Inspections (TOFD, TFM, PAUT & TULA) CONVENTIONAL NDT • X-Radiography & Gamma Radiography • Computed and Digital Radiography • Close Proximity Radiography • Ultrasonic Inspection • Magnetic Particle Inspection • Dye Penetrant Inspection • Eddy Current & Eddy Current Array • Positive Material Identification (PMI) • Hardness Testing • Ferrite Testing • ACFM Inspection • Vacuum Box Testing INSPECTION AND TESTING SERVICES IRISNDT is a leading provider of Asset Integrity Engineering, Non- Destructive Testing, Heat Treatment and Laboratory services. This is achieved through investment in training local personnel, continuous development of our facilities and refreshing our equipment to offer the latest in technology and innovations. This is supported by a strong commitment to safety, quality, and the environment. IRISNDT are closely supported by our colleagues in Canada, the USA and Australia. ADDITIONAL SERVICES • Rope Access • Heat Treatment • Pressure Testing • Welding Inspection • Materials Laboratory (ISO 17025) • Welder Training • Failure Investigations ASSET INTEGRITY ENGINEERING • Pressure System Inspections • Storage Tank Inspections • Pipeline Inspections • Out of Service and In-Service Inspections • Category 1, 2 & 3 Inspectors • Written Schemes of Examination (WSE’s) • Fitness for Service (FFS) Assessments • Engineering Calculations • Maxi-Trak Field Services (Customized Software) • Bund Surveys 02.qxp_Layout 1 01/12/2021 16:16 Page 1Merry Christmas and here’s to a hopefully non-lockdown 2022. The end of the year has finally come and it’s time to start cramming as much as work as can be done before everyone breaks up for the holidays. Depending on your business, this can be more or less stressful than usual. For us, it means getting January issues of each magazine written and sent to the printers so that they can be printed and distributed in time for January. For accountants, it is dealing with the inevitable influx of late tax records and the rush to have those completed before the end of year. Normally, we’d be talking about Christmas parties and the dreaded things that always go on there, but 2021 has been somewhat of an unsociable year thanks to the pandemic and the lockdown – and as ministers tighten restrictions in the wave of the new Omicron variant, it’s fair to say many of us are looking to 2022 with nervous eyes. At the time of writing one case has been confirmed, but ministers are warning to expect more. On the brighter side, businesses are more likely to be in a position now to withstand any future lockdowns thanks to the lessons that have been learned this year. In our region, the economy has recovered faster than the average and that’s a sign of the strength of local businesses. The most important thing is to prepare – to have a plan in place for “if” the worst should come to pass, even if we will hope it does not. That is perhaps the greatest thing COVID-19 has taught us; that we were woefully unprepared for the possibility of a pandemic. It’s not all doom and gloom, however. This issue is all about the successes of businesses in our region, highlighting how companies have persevered and triumphed through adversity. We’re looking toward 2022 with an open mind and the assurance that even if things go wrong, it’s still likely to be a better experience than 2021. Good reading and Merry Christmas! Michael Fisher Editor From the Editor Freephone: 0800 328 5492 Email: sales@allertonuk.com Website: www.allertonuk.com ACCREDITED ENGINEERS The Dependable Choice in Drainage In rural areas without a mains drainage system, and where septic tanks will no longer reach environmental standards, Allerton can provide the ideal solution. Trading since 1974, Allerton are leading specialists in efficient treatment systems. They pride themselves on their individual, problem solving approach to dealing with alternative means of treating and disposing of raw sewage. The Allerton ConSept converts your existing Septic Tank or Cesspit into a fully functioning Sewage Treatment Plant. Servicing & Maintenance on a wide range of Sewage Treatment Plant and Pump Stations by BRITISH WATER ACCREDITED ENGINEERS. 03.qxp_Layout 1 01/12/2021 16:17 Page 1CONTENTS DECEMBER 2021 6 News The latest business news and success stories from around our region. 10 Commercial property After a two-year pause, the commercial property sector is reopening to Yorkshire and Lincolnshire with new promising prospects 14 End of year success The year has not been an easy one, which is what makes the successes of businesses able to achieve despite it all the more impressive. 18 Lincoln Science Park Q&A The Lincoln Science Park has gone from success to success since its inception – we speak to Tom Blount, Director of the Lincoln Science & Innovation Park, to find out what it’s all about and what has contributed to its strength. 20 Engineering In the wake of COP26, the engineering sector’s role in helping the country reach Net Zero has only become more important. 24 Productivity HUB Q&A Securing the funding necessary to pursue new opportunities is not always a simple matter, but the Productivity HUBs Programme run from the University of Lincoln offers local businesses a chance to earn a grant of up to £10,000. We had a chance to sit down with Rebecca Webster from the University of Lincoln to find out more. 26 Health and safety As the number of homeworkers reach an all-time high, bosses must ensure that they don’t get forgotten about when it comes to health, safety and hygiene. 32 Ports and logistics Solving the skills crisis in the logistics industry, as well as utilising our region’s ports, will prove critical for the government’s levelling up project. 36 Invoice and finanvce solutions Invoice and other finance solutions can provide a literal lifeline for businesses at a time when overheads are rising and economic uncertainty is rife. 42 AutoLink As the year comes to a close it’s time to look at some of the new motors we can expect execs and directors to be driving in 2022. 56 Events We take a look at business events happening around Yorkshire and Lincolnshire 50 And finally… Yorkshire-Lincolnshire- Business-Link @blmforum blmforum.net CONNECT WITH US 20 32 36 04-05.qxp_Layout 1 01/12/2021 16:19 Page 1Group Editor Steve Fisher (s.fisher@blmgroup.co.uk) Editor Michael Fisher (m.fisher@blmgroup.co.uk) Journalist Tess Egginton (t.egginton@blmgroup.co.uk) Eleonora Gallina (e.gallina@blmgroup.co.uk) Editorial contact newsdesk@blmgroup.co.uk Tel: (01472) 310305 Fax: (01472) 310317 Sales Director Angela Cooper (a.cooper@blmgroup.co.uk) Advertising Vicky Hunt (v.hunt@blmgroup.co.uk) Kerry Randerson (k.randerson@blmgroup.co.uk) Tel: (01472) 310310 Accounts & Subscriptions Angela Sharman, John Downes Tel: (01472) 310301 Fax: (01472) 310311 Design & Production Gary Jorgensen, Mark Casson Tel: (01472) 310304 Fax: (01472) 310314 (studio@blmgroup.co.uk) E-Mail: yorks-lincs@blmgroup.co.uk Website www.blmforum.net Address Haychart Ltd, Armstrong House, Armstrong Street, Grimsby, N.E. Lincs., DN31 2QE. ISSN No: 1462-2092 All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, transmitted, photocopied, recorded or otherwise without express permission of the copyright holder, for which application should be addressed first to the publisher. While every reasonable care is taken, neither the publisher nor its participating agents accept liability for loss or damage to prints, colour transparencies, negatives or other material of whatever nature submitted to this publication. The views expressed in this publication are not necessarily the views of those held by the publisher. COVER PHOTOS : STOCK .ADOBE .COM - TORSAKARIN • AUDI • KRAKENIMAGES .COM • BILLIONPHOTOS .COM • IPOPBA www.blmforum.net 26 04-05.qxp_Layout 1 01/12/2021 16:19 Page 2Yorkshire entrepreneur receives prestigious awards nominations for work in North America Managing partner and CEO of Twisted North America, Twisted Middle East and Twisted EV, Tom Maxwell, has been nominated for two prestigious honours at this year’s Institute of Directors and Growing Business awards. He has been shortlisted in the Young Director category in the Yorkshire & North East region in recognition for his work as a leading figure in the transatlantic niche, for the USA branch of North Yorkshire based Twisted Automotive. Twisted is an automotive company which offers engineering modifications and enhancements to Land Rover Defender vehicles, with leading models in the North American market. This recent nomination underlines a successful year for Maxwell, who has also been nominated as a finalist in the Young Entrepreneur of the Year category in the 23rd annual Growing Business Awards. Maxwell said: “To receive a nomination in the Young Entrepreneur category underlines the effectiveness of the approach we’re taking to really put Twisted on the map across the Atlantic; we’re excited to see what we can achieve moving forward.” 6 Business Link www.blmforum.net NEWS SME v RDEC: What are the differences? The SME Scheme is the stream for Small & Medium-sized Entities, which are generally, companies that are performing R&D for their own benefit and spending their own money. However, in some cases, they may be performing the R&D with an expected customer in mind, having identified a market need or been approached by a customer with a specific requirement. In these circumstances, it is important to understand the contractual relationship between the SME and its customer. The RDEC Scheme is for larger customers and for work “subcontracted” to an SME, or that has been “subsidised” by a customer. The subsidised element is one that HMRC have been pursuing recently and focusing on the commercial terms of milestone-based projects. A significant upfront payment on contract signature might be seen as a way of subsidizing the R&D expenditure to be performed by the SME, which would then make a claim for R&D Tax Relief under the SME Scheme unviable due to the subsidy. The eligible costs are the same, with the exception of subcontracted R&D. A company claiming under RDEC can’t claim for work subcontracted out. For more information visit the website https://www.coodentaxconsulting.co.uk/news/sme-v-rdec-what-are-the-differences/ J.R. Rix & Sons Ltd moves into new waterfront headquarters Well known family company, J.R. Rix & Sons Ltd, has started a phased move to Two Humber Quays – a modern, grade A office development on Wellington Street. Rory Clarke, managing director of J.R. Rix & Sons, said: “J.R. Rix & Sons has a heritage stretching back more than 150 years in Hull and that has been achieved by evolving with the business landscape, here and nationally, and through innovation. “The move to Two Humber Quays sees us take one of the most prestigious business addresses in the city that has enabled our success, and that is a huge source of pride for everyone at J.R. Rix and Sons.” J.R. Rix & Sons acquired the building from former owners Colsilverbird A SARL, a Luxembourg investment company. It benefits from a range of high-quality cafes and restaurants within easy reach following the redevelopment of the historic Fruit Market area. Mr Clarke said: “It facilitates collaborating, new ideas and innovations and colleague relationships in a way remote working cannot. Ultimately, a shared physical space creates culture. This has been one of the main drivers for investing in Two Humber Quays.” 06-09.qxp_Layout 1 01/12/2021 16:21 Page 1Goldsmiths unveils its luxurious new concept in Lincoln Goldsmiths, one of the UK’s leading luxury watch and jewellery retailers and part of the Watches of Switzerland Group, has invested significantly this year in redesigning its Goldsmiths showrooms. The Lincoln showroom follows the recent openings in Braehead, Brighton, Canterbury, and Reading. The new calming, yet dynamic space was conceived in partnership with the award-winning UK- based design collective Quadrant Design. Light uncluttered, open spaces in a monochrome palette of luxurious materials such as white-washed oak timber, white terrazzo and blackened steel, have been combined with visual architectural forms that include repeating vertical lines and soft curves inspired by the Goldsmiths logo, to perfectly combine contemporary luxury design with a relaxed atmosphere. Craig Bolton, executive director of the Watches said: ”Our ambition is for everyone to have a memorable luxury experience long after they’ve made their purchase. We believe the repositioning and new store concept will transform not just the Goldsmiths profile and experience but bring some fresh life to our high streets and we are delighted to launch in the historic Cathedral City of Lincoln.” www.blmforum.net Business Link 7 NEWS Newly appointed Sheffield based Director announces growth plan for national firm Pioneering logistics operator Europa Worldwide Group has appointed a new Sheffield based Branch Network and Sales Director whose ambition is to grow the national firm’s European Road freight division. Yorkshireman Adrian Redmile is based mainly at Europa’s Sheffield branch on Broadfield Close – which was opened in 2018, as part of Europa’s strategic growth plan, expanding its Northern network and ensuring it had a presence in all UK regions. Adrian Redmile has 15 years experience in transport and logistics, is now responsible for sales at Europa Road and his plan is to increase his sales team by 60 per cent for the Kent headquartered logistics firm. Adrian said: “I’m delighted to be able to lead the growing Europa Road sales team. Having local branch offices is an important part of our core strategy so that we have local teams, with local knowledge who can actively support our customers with their road freight requirements. There are lots of exciting things happening at Europa Road as we move into our next phase of growth.” Yorkshire chemical company donation brings science to life for school A Yorkshire primary school has received a boost to its science department with the gift of £500 of science resources from its neighbouring chemical company. Airedale Chemical of Cross Hills continued its tradition of support for Sutton in Craven Community Primary School with a donation to help boost the school’s STEM activities and maintain its partnership with the school. Deputy head teacher of Sutton in Craven Community Primary School, Jill Fletcher, said: “We’re always looking for ways to stimulate the children’s interest across all subjects and to be able to make lessons more interactive and this equipment will be a real boost for our students and teachers alike. “With the budget challenges that schools face each year, backing from companies like Airedale Chemical can be really important.” Daniel Marr, group chief commercial officer of Airedale Chemical, said: “We hope that the science equipment is enjoyed by many classes to come and that one day we might see some of the budding scientists working at Airedale Chemical.” 06-09.qxp_Layout 1 01/12/2021 16:21 Page 2TOWER FIELD SERVICES Cat Tech Tower Field Services offers bespoke mechanical services to oil refinery and petrochemical plants all around the world. Our team has vast experience in overseeing and undertaking the installation of all types of Tower internals. Our Tower tray, packing and other internals installation services has deep roots, with several of the senior team at Cat Tech being involved in the founding of the Cana-Tex organisation. Since 1971, Cana-Tex had been the premier global Tower speciality contractor; performing Tower maintenance and plant turnaround projects around the world. These origins, with the addition of new team members, make Cat Tech Tower Field services a global operation which is both cost effective and technically experienced. We strive to create new ways to make your Tower work safer, faster and more productive and that can make very good things happen for your business. We thrive on exceeding our clients expectations and understand the need for upfront communication in relation to timescales and costs. No-one likes surprises in this industry and we ensure that everything is done, from pre-job planning, on site activities to post job reporting in a manner which allows our customers to concentrate on their core business. Let us show you what we can do. We work hard to maintain an industry reputation for safety, speed and dependability. Ours crews have been trained by us, this allows us to staff a project with the proven skills necessary to produce customer satisfaction. It is our intention to demonstrate the benefit of utilising Cat Tech for all of your Tower work. The benefits of engaging Cat Tech are: l Experienced Tower specialists. l Proven track record. l Ability to supply spares and replacements. lSpade to Spade service. lRevamps or modifications to Towers / Internals. lInspection of Tower internals. lSupervision of external/client labour force. lDetailed inspection reports. lCleaning of tower internals. lReactor tray field services. lTurnkey reactor tray field services. At Cat Tech, we continue to create new ways to make Tower work safer, faster and more productive. And that can make very good things happen for your business. Contact us for further information. Our well established sales team have a wealth of experience. We take pride on ensuring all enquires are dealt with quickly and efficiently. UK: Cat Tech (Europe) Ltd., 1 South Park Road, South Park Industrial Estate, Scunthorpe, North Lincolnshire, DN17 2BY UK Phone: +44 (0) 1724 871747 Fax: + 44 (0) 1724 861928 Bulgaria: Cat Tech Services (South Eastern Europe) Ltd., Devnia, Varna District, Povelyanovo, 20 Droujba Str, R Bulgaria, 9160 Phone: +(35) 9519 92052 Fax: +(35) 9527 46770 China: Cat Tech Services (Shanghai) Ltd., Room 1230 No.1, 58 Nong Huachi Road, Putuo District, Shanghai 20061 CN Phone: +(86) 2152 9175 08 Fax: +(86) 2152 9175 05 Singapore: Cat Tech Asia Pacific Pte. Ltd., 17 Fan Yoong Road, Singapore 629794 Phone: +(65) 6264 6261 Fax: +(65) 6264 6401 South America: Please contact the UK office on +44 1724 871 747 Thailand: Cat Tech Services (Thailand) Ltd., 2/1 Soi Banbon Nuenpayom Road, Maptaphut Sub District, Muang Rayong District, Rayong Province 21150 TH Phone: +(66) 894 064 100 Fax: +(66) 638 692 382 MAKING YOUR PLANT WORK… SMARTER www.cat-tech.com PHOTO: SHUTTERSTOCK.COM/KAWINNINGS 06-09.qxp_Layout 1 01/12/2021 16:22 Page 3www.blmforum.net Business Link 9 NEWS The Big Bamboo Agency appoints non-executive director One of Yorkshire’s fastest growing PR and marketing agencies, eyeing both national and international growth, has appointed its first non-executive director. Richard Kenny – whose 30- year career has seen him work with companies at board level across Europe, the United States and the Far East – will offer strategic guidance and new business development support to The Big Bamboo Agency’s founder, Nicola Stamford. Nicola Stamford said: “I’ve known Richard for more than a decade, and during that time he has become a mentor and advisor. Our relationship has now developed to such an extent that I asked him to become a non-executive director, and I’m delighted that he accepted this position.” Richard Kenny said: “The Big Bamboo Agency’s journey has only just started in my view. I know it has the potential to further expand beyond its Yorkshire roots and become a significant name in the PR and marketing industry internationally.” Lincolnshire Business Angels celebrates official launch Businesses and investors from Greater Lincolnshire gathered on November 18 to celebrate the official launch of Lincolnshire Business Angels at Mosaic Digital Hub in Lincoln. The Lincolnshire Business Angels network and business support programme forms part of the University of Lincoln’s Productivity Programme for Greater Lincolnshire and provides access to equity funding for high-growth potential and start-up businesses in the region. Lincolnshire Business Angels works with SMEs seeking equity investment to refine their business proposals and plans to become investment ready. It provides the platform to connect these businesses with its group of business investors through pitch presentation events. Laura Mallaburn, Business Support and Angel Network Manager, said: “My role is to connect businesses that need funding with private investors. I provide business support and advice to get businesses ‘investment ready’ before introducing them to the network for investment consideration.” To find out more about how you can get involved with Lincolnshire Business Angels, visit: lincolnsciencepark.co.uk. BUSINESS LINCOLNSHIRE Get 12 hours of fully-funded business support Would you like some expert advice to grow your business but are concerned about the cost? The Business Lincolnshire Growth Hub offers 12 hours of adviser support – fully funded at no cost to you! Business Lincolnshire’s team of Growth Hub advisers have the know-how to help take your business to the next level. As well as providing expert support to businesses across Greater Lincolnshire and Rutland, they can direct you to training programmes, useful events and funding support schemes to help your business reach its full potential. Many Growth Hub advisers are current or former business owners, making them both a fountain of knowledge and a handy sounding board for the challenges your business may face. Growth Hub advisers are also trained to conduct a thorough diagnostic of your business, identifying your strengths and weaknesses, and most importantly, developing a strategy that helps you to reach your goals. Since 2016, the Growth Hub and its advisers have helped more than 30,000 businesses to grow, and over 600 to get off the ground. Their support has led to the creation of 1,700 local jobs, and more than £4,800,000 in grants has been paid to help businesses to grow. Spalding-based flower wholesaler Evolve Flowers is just one of the businesses the Growth Hub has supported. Founder Helen Chambers’ adviser supported her in managing the demands of her rapidly growing business, providing mentorship as well as helping her to access funding. Helen said: “The advisers understand the challenges that a business faces and can link you up with the tools and resources to make your business a success. Their ongoing support helped me to identify my business’s strengths and weaknesses and come up with a plan of action – I’d definitely recommend that other businesses get in touch.” For more information visit www.businesslincolnshire.com © adobe.stock.com/ sebra 06-09.qxp_Layout 1 01/12/2021 16:23 Page 4Next >