UK manufacturing output flat, but cost and price inflation ease to slowest pace since 2021

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UK manufacturing output flat, but cost and price inflation ease to slowest pace since 2021
Cost and pricing pressures in UK manufacturing remain high, but shows signs of easing, according to the CBI’s latest Industrial Trends survey. In the quarter to January, average unit costs grew at the slowest pace since April 2021, while domestic selling price inflation was the slowest since July 2021. But both remained far above their long-run averages. Manufacturers reported stable output volumes in the quarter to January, following a modest decline in the quarter to December. New orders were flat, while the volume of total order books fell further below normal, suggesting that output has been supported in part by manufacturers tackling backlogs of work. Looking ahead, manufacturers expect new orders and output volumes to increase in the next quarter, but the share of firms reporting that orders or sales would constrain output nonetheless reached its highest since April 2021. The survey, based on the responses of 321 manufacturing firms, found that:
  • Business sentiment fell for the fifth consecutive quarter, but at a much slower rate than in the three months to October (balance of -5%, from -48%). Export optimism also fell, but less quickly than in October, when it dropped at the fastest pace in two years (-22%, from -31%).
  • Output volumes were stable in the quarter to January, after falling in the three months to December (weighted balance of -1% from -9%). Rising output in the mechanical engineering and food, drink & tobacco sub-sectors was offset by falls in chemicals, metal manufacturing and motor vehicles & transport equipment. Firms expect volumes to increase briskly in the next three months (+19%).
  • Demand-side factors were seen as more likely to limit output in the next three months (57% of respondents cited orders or sales as a likely constraint, from 43% in October; average of 71%). Supply-side constraints remain historically significant, but have eased: shortages of skilled labour (38%, from 49%; average of 16%); shortages of materials/components (44%, from 54%; average of 11%).
  • Total new orders were broadly stable in the quarter to January (balance of -3%, from -8%). However, the volume of total order books fell further below normal (balance of -17%, from -6% in October). Manufacturers expect new orders to rise over the next three months (+9%).
  • Average costs growth remained exceptionally strong in the quarter to January, but nonetheless eased, with costs rising at the slowest pace since April 2021 (balance of +64%, from +82% in October; average of +17%). Cost growth is expected to slow further in the quarter to April (+53%).
  • Average domestic selling price inflation also eased but remained elevated in the quarter to January (balance of +37%, from +50% in October; vs average of +2%). Domestic price inflation is expected to remain elevated over the next three months (+41%).
  • Numbers employed continued to rise in the three months to January, albeit at a slower pace (+14%, from +26% in October). Firms expect headcount to rise further in the next three months (+24%).
  • Investment intentions for the year ahead were mixed. Manufacturers expect to raise investment in training and retraining (+20%, from +14%), plant and machinery (+8%, from +6%) and product and process innovation (+6%, from +7%). Investment in buildings is expected to decline in the year ahead (-9% from -5%).
Anna Leach, CBI deputy chief economist, said: “Mixed conditions are apparent in the manufacturing sector this month. Global supply chain pressures, labour shortages and energy costs are easing, enabling unit cost growth to ease back from record highs. “But there are signs that demand is easing too, with order books weakening sharply, spare capacity in the manufacturing sector rising and the share of firms citing the strength of sales or orders as potential constraint on output rising to its highest in almost two years.”

Grimsby seafood business enters administration after abrupt plant closure

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Grimsby seafood business enters administration after abrupt plant closure
Cook & Lucas Frozen (UK) Limited has entered administration. The company is an established importer, processor and supplier of seafood and whitefish, operating a smokehouse and processing plant in Grimsby. On 10 January 2023, the company abruptly closed its plant in Grimsby, with approximately 80 members of staff being laid off. Following this unannounced closure, the company’s secured lender took steps to protect its position and sought the appointment of the joint administrators – James Clark and Howard Smith from Interpath Advisory. James Clark, Managing Director at Interpath Advisory and joint administrator, said: “Given the circumstances surrounding our appointment, our immediate priority is to take steps to secure the company’s assets, while seeking to gather further information about the company’s financial position.”

Infotec Limited sold to Journeo Plc for £8.7m

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Infotec Limited sold to Journeo Plc for £8.7m
Flint Bishop has advised the shareholder of IGL Ltd, the parent company of Leicestershire-based Infotec Limited, on the £8.7m sale to Journeo Plc, an AIM-listed information systems and transport technical services group also based in Leicestershire.
IGL Ltd, and its subsidiaries trading as Infotec, is one of the few British-based companies that designs, manufactures, tests and distributes its own passenger information displays to the rail sector in both the UK and abroad. 
With more than 15,000 displays in operation and coverage of 80 per cent of the rail network, 2.19 million passenger journeys rely on Infotech’s products every day.
Leading on the deal for Tim Court was partner and head of corporate and finance Martyn Brierley, with support from senior associate Mark Wilcock. Partner David Newborough and associate director Jonathan Williamson, of Ashgates Corporate Services Ltd, provided accounting and tax advice to the selling shareholder on the disposal.
Brierley said: “We are delighted to have advised Tim on this successful transaction. The process was technically detailed at times so we are pleased to have helped bring the transaction to a positive conclusion for both Tim and Journeo plc. With Tim’s ongoing role in the business, we wish both Tim, Infotec and Journeo, the very best for their future together.”
Infotec founder Tim Court said: “Selling a business you’ve worked in and nurtured for near 30 years was always going to be emotional journey. Martyn, Mark and the team at Flint Bishop conducted the transaction with the utmost professionalism and skill. To me personally, they handled the deal with a deft touch which made the process bearable, their input is one I will always be grateful for. I couldn’t recommend and rate Martyn and his team at Flint Bishop more highly.”

Student consultancy project leads to innovation for East Midlands start-up

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Student consultancy project leads to innovation for East Midlands start-up
An East Midlands start-up is planning to modernise its products and revamp its website following a successful consultancy project with students from Nottingham Business School (NBS), part of Nottingham Trent University. East Midlands Roller Doors was established in 2021 and supplies residential electric garage doors across the region. Following a successful first year of trading, the company is looking to expand into the commercial market with a view to recruiting more local talent to the organisation. Six students from MSc Management and International Business and MSc Global Supply Chain Management courses carried out a competitor and SWOT analysis and explored the potential size of the market and the scope for the company to enter into it. They also considered steps that East Midlands Roller Doors could take to develop the commercial side of their business. Their recommendations covered customer finance options, product diversification and the business rationale for developing a strong brand identity. Greg Spencer, founder and manager of East Midlands Roller Doors, said: “As a new start-up we were looking for fresh ideas on how we could grow our business. We set the students the task of looking at how big the potential market is for roller doors in the East Midlands area. We also asked them to find out what could set us apart from other garage door companies working in the region. “Throughout the project they were passionate, motivated and it was a pleasure working with them. After several weeks of research, the students presented their feedback to us. “We will certainly be using some of the recommendations. We are looking at new, innovative features that will modernise our products. We’re also incorporating some of the student ideas into our new website build. We now have some exciting things we’re working on that will be released in the coming months.” Prajwal Hulikere Mohan Kumar, MSc Management and International Business student, said: “This professional consulting project was a highly motivating experience for a Masters’ student like me to step into the professional world. This project gave us the real time experience to understand the requirement of a real business and analyse their challenges. “We had an initial meeting with our client to understand their aim and what they wanted to achieve in the next few years. After analysing their requirements, we presented frameworks and recommendations for the best strategy to enter the commercial market. “As a team we were happy that we could achieve our task with hard work and meet the client’s expectation. This consulting project helped me learn how to handle a client and understand their requirements in real time business.” The project is one of 45 NBS student projects which took place over the autumn. The teams are supported by an academic supervisor who guides them through the process. During 2021/22 NBS arranged 157 business projects for more than 700 post graduate students – 92% of organisations surveyed said they’d recommend these projects to others. Greg Spencer added: “It has been a very good learning experience for us and given us ideas to take into the new year that will help us achieve our goals. I highly recommend companies working with NBS on these projects as the fresh ideas can be eye opening and it’s all useful information for potential growth.” NBS is looking for businesses to host new projects from May 2023. Organisations interested in taking part can email nbsstudentprojects@ntu.ac.uk for further information.

Seven new tenants move into Nottingham office building

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Seven new tenants move into Nottingham office building
Following the £4 million redevelopment of East West on Maid Marian Way in Nottingham, seven new tenants have leased close to 50,000 sq ft of office space. Equifax has taken 19,045 sq ft across the entire 5th floor, partnering with CEG which is delivering the bespoke fit out on their behalf. Classroom software company, Impero, has taken 3,345 sq ft and Turner and Townsend a 4,260 sq ft office. As well as letting space to project management company, Faithful & Gould, CEG has also managed and delivered the bespoke fit out of new office space for Worldwide Clinical Trials group (10,500 sq ft). A further two tenants are taking up CEG’s well-established, flexible offer Let Ready, which provides serviced workspace, which offers the ability to grow your business from 3 to 300 people without changing address. Pick Everard has taken a 1,991 sq ft office and KPMG has moved into the 3rd and 4th floor of the building. A spokesperson from Worldwide said: “Providing contemporary and flexible workspace for our employees was essential as we return to the office and East West offers a great environment. It is one of the best office developments in Nottingham, with fantastic onsite facilities as well as being an easy walk to the city centre enabling sustainable commuting choices.” CEG recently transformed the flagship East West development to deliver 175,000 sq ft of best-in-class workspace. The adjacent Toll House pub has been integrated into the development, providing a café bistro and business lounge offering a variety of spaces to eat, meet, drink and work with access to WiFi and plug in points. This first phase of redevelopment has created a striking new reception area to the east building, as well as improvements to the glazing, lighting, heating and ventilation and new cycling facilities, showers, drying room and lockers. Alex Goode, investment manager at CEG, said: “East West has been transformed to respond to businesses wanting healthy, sustainable and productive space that will help to attract and retain the best talent. “We are delighted to welcome seven new tenants and, although the building is so popular, we do have some suites from 1,900 to 9,000 sq ft available over the coming months, ready for bespoke fit out, the costs for which can be managed as part of the flexible rent package to reduce an occupier’s capital outlay.” FHP is marketing the building on behalf of CEG. Mark Tomlinson, director at FHP, said: “We continue to see strong demand for the very best quality office spaces with many occupiers now seeking to improve the quality of their office environments. Supply of good quality office space in Nottingham is low and East West stands alone in its ability to offer its Tenants a superb onsite business lounge café for informal meetings, hosting client events, staff breakout and workspaces. I’m delighted to say that we are due to bring forward more space within the building in 2023.”

Company fined £100k after man left permanently disabled

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Company fined £100k after man left permanently disabled
A company must pay more than £100k after one of its employees was left with life-changing injuries when a pallet of glass weighing more than one tonne fell on top of him. Andrew Potts, from Nottingham, was left permanently disabled and reliant on a cocktail of medication after breaking his neck in five places following the incident at a depot in Lichfield on 30 September 2016. The pallet had shifted during transportation and fell on to the 58-year-old, who has not been able to work since with his wife Dawn having to give up her own job to become his full-time carer. An investigation by the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) found that United Pallet Network (UK) Limited’s (UPN) system of working was inadequate and not communicated with staff. They also failed to provide adequate training in how to recover shifted loads. “This has been extremely hard to deal with, emotionally, physically and financially,” Mr Potts said. “I had to stay in Royal Stoke University Hospital for nine days following the incident. “Dawn used to come home crying, wondering whether I would make it, and how she and the family would cope. I have been left physically, partially disabled. “I am having to adjust to this new way of being as I continue to struggle to accept what has happened. I had recurring nightmares following the incident – I would wake up screaming, sweating or crying. “The incident left me severely depressed.” As well as the multiple neck fractures, which resulted in a halo being screwed into his head for several weeks, Mr Potts also suffered many other injuries including broken bones in his leg and feet. Those injuries resulted in eleven pins being inserted into one of his feet, three of which will remain for the rest of his life. “I can’t walk very far at all, I use walking poles in an attempt to keep me as upright as possible to walk outside of our home,” he said. “Depending on where we are actually going, like shopping for instance, I use a powerchair to enable me to get around, even so, all these physical tasks are simply exhausting. “Our lives will never be the same again, the accident was absolutely life changing. We are learning to live again and adjusting to enjoy a different kind of life, because life is a gift.” Stafford Crown Court heard how on the evening of 30 September 2016, a lorry containing a consignment of four pallets of glass arrived at United Pallet Network (UK) Limited’s (UPN) pallet hub at Fradley Park, Lichfield. The pallets had not been appropriately loaded or secured and fell out of the trailer onto Mr Potts as he made attempts to rectify the problem. United Pallet Network (UK) Ltd of Vantage Business Park, Leicester pleaded guilty to Section 2(1) of the Health and Safety at Work Act 1974 and it was fined £94,667 and ordered to pay costs of £7,590.34. HSE inspector Andrew Johnson said after the hearing: “This is yet another tragic, and avoidable workplace incident that should never have happened. “Had UPN devised and trained its employees in suitably safe systems of work to deal with shifted loads, then Mr Potts would have continued living the life he had before this incident. “This is why it is crucial that transport companies get their trailer loading and unloading systems right.”

Revenue up at Chesterfield packaging manufacturer

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Revenue up at Chesterfield packaging manufacturer
Revenue is up at Robinson plc, the custom manufacturer of plastic and paperboard packaging based in Chesterfield. According to a trading statement, prior to the announcement of the company’s final results for the year ended 31 December 2022, revenue for 2022 is anticipated to be £50.5m, which represents a 10% increase over the prior year, or a 1% increase excluding the effect of the Schela Plast business, acquired in February 2021. After adjusting for price changes and foreign exchange, sales volumes in the underlying business are 10% below 2021, affected by changes in consumer behaviour, delisting of certain products by customers and overall reduced customer demand. Operating profit before exceptional items and amortisation of intangible assets for the year are anticipated to be in line with current market expectations, and comfortably ahead of 2021.

Full year results “marginally ahead of market expectations” at Staffline

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Full year results “marginally ahead of market expectations” at Staffline
Staffline, the Nottingham-based recruitment and training group, says its full year results will be marginally ahead of market expectations. In a trading update for the year ended 31 December 2022, the business highlighted a revenue increase of 0.4%, to £946.8m, driven in part by new client wins, including BMW, and a full year contribution from Restart. Gross profit was up 0.5% to £83.2m, while underlying operating profit grew 12.6% to £11.6m.

Albert Ellis, Chief Executive Officer of Staffline, said: “We are pleased to report a solid trading performance across the Group in FY 2022, which is a testament to the outstanding dedication and commitment from all our employees and partners.

“These results not only reinforce Staffline’s position as a market leader in terms of organic growth, but underscore the clear benefits of its highly cash generative business model.

“As the UK cost of living crisis deepens and the much-publicised global macro headwinds continue to swirl, there is no question that our core markets have become more challenging.

“Whilst we are mindful of the challenges ahead, we firmly believe Staffline, supported by our sizable market footprint, sector diversity, and unrivalled track record in service delivery and innovation, remains well placed to capitalise on considerable market opportunities and further grow our market share.”

Record-breaking year for Yü Group

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Record-breaking year for Yü Group
Yü Group, the Nottingham-headquartered utilities supplier, has reported a record-breaking performance for 2022, exceeding management expectations. Full year revenue has skyrocketed, to exceed £275m, an increase of over 76% on FY21 (£155m). The company’s adjusted EBITDA margin for the year, meanwhile, is anticipated to be significantly ahead of current market expectations. The firm also hailed record-breaking annualised contracts. Yü Group is anticipating its growth to continue in to FY23 and over the medium term. Bobby Kalar, CEO of Yü Group, said: “I’m thrilled to report a fantastic, record-breaking performance for FY22. While the Board modelled a strong outcome for FY22 we may have underestimated the accelerated contribution our strengthened business would have on the Group’s FY financial metrics. “Record breaking organic revenues, profitability and forward contracted revenues have all exceeded management expectations. We are now in the fast lane of growth and expect to exceed current guidance that had already been upgraded in March, July, September and November 2022. “Our balance sheet is very strong, with excellent cash conversion and I’m very pleased to report a fourth consecutive year of EBITDA improvement. Cash has also far exceeded management expectations, more than doubling from FY21. Net customer contribution (being gross margin less bad debt) is being managed as we grow. Adjusted EBITDA margin has also dwarfed the 2.1% achieved in H122 (FY21: 1.1%) and as such we have clear visibility of our stated £500m revenue at 4%+ target. “As a consequence of our strong cash generation, management intends to make a modest shareholder distribution in respect of the financial performance achieved in FY22, details of which will be announced alongside publication of the Company’s audited results for FY22. In considering the level of dividend management will ensure it does not constrain or hinder our growth ambitions or abilities to take advantage of corporate and other growth opportunities as they arise. “The impact of our ‘digital by default’ transformation has exceeded management expectations in terms of its contribution to margin and efficiency. Our single platform seamless onboarding has created operational leverage alongside opening up additional profitable sales streams. The full impact will become materially beneficial in 2023 and beyond. “I’m pleased to welcome the Yü Smart team to our family, after completing the purchase from Magnum Utilities in May 2022 using cash from our balance sheet. The management have worked hard to achieve, from a standing start, full industry accreditation and the necessary licences to install and maintain metering infrastructure. “Yü Smart installed its first SMETs meter in August 2022 and by year end was achieving hundreds of installs a month. As Yü Smart gains national coverage and full operational scale in 2023 it will complement our retail business in contributing significant Group profitability. “As always delivering such positive results takes a huge team effort and I would like to thank all of my team for trusting the Board and believing management’s vision. The hard yards continue to bear fruit.”

2023 Business Predictions: Bev Wakefield, owner of Vibrant Accountancy

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2023 Business Predictions: Bev Wakefield, owner of Vibrant Accountancy
It’s that time of year, when Business Link Magazine invites the region’s business leaders to offer up their predictions for the year ahead.  It has become something of a tradition, given that we’ve been doing this now for over 30 years. Here we speak to Bev Wakefield, owner of Vibrant Accountancy. Technology holds an important role in any business and, in 2023, it will become vital across all organisations and industries. Vibrant Accountancy is a very tech-driven firm. Our clients are on cloud accounting software and we look at apps that we can use to help drive the slickness of their finance function even further. We also use a lot of tech to support us as a business, and I believe that many more businesses will be turning to innovative tech in the new year, too. Human contact, though, will always be needed; people like to see a friendly face and feel supported. We have all been through the mill over the last couple of years and a good support network as a business owner is essential. Ask for help, talk to people who have been there before and remember why you set up in the first place. Ensure that you keep this in mind and do not let your business become a beast and take over!

2023 Business Predictions: Chris Wright, director of OMEETO

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2023 Business Predictions: Chris Wright, director of OMEETO
It’s that time of year, when Business Link Magazine invites the region’s business leaders to offer up their predictions for the year ahead.  It has become something of a tradition, given that we’ve been doing this now for over 30 years. Here we speak to Chris Wright, director of commercial property consultants, OMEETO. Despite a more challenging economic backdrop, I am confident that, overall, we will enter 2023 on a positive note – largely thanks to the diverse and robust nature of the East Midlands economy which continues to be reflected in the health of the commercial property market. There are, of course, fundamental challenges, not least interest rate increases and spiralling energy costs. I sincerely hope that 2023 sees meaningful measures put in place to assist businesses with the latter. As a commercial property agency practice, we rely on property transactions taking place. We are seeing continuing demand for neighbourhood retail, well fitted and flexible office accommodation and for industrial/warehousing space. In 2023 we are expecting occupier demand to continue in these sectors, particularly for good quality, well positioned properties. Throughout 2022 the commercial property market was generally starved of freehold stock, with strong competitive demand across all sectors. As a result of the availability and cost of borrowing, the number of proceedable purchasers has reduced. We expect there may be an increase of freehold supply in the New Year. This might be a welcome relief for some and I am aware of quite a number of businesses who have not been able to achieve their owner occupier goals. An increase in freehold supply could also create investor opportunities. The key is being well positioned and confident to take those opportunities.

Elevate secures £23.4m for new build schemes

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Elevate secures £23.4m for new build schemes
Paragon Bank’s Development Finance division has provided a £23.4 million funding package for two Midlands-based new build projects for Elevate Property Group. The funding includes an £11.5 million finance package for the company’s development of 60 new build apartments on Homer Road, Solihull. In addition, Paragon has provided an £11.9m funding package for the Phase II development of the company’s Trent Bridge Quays project in Nottingham. Both deals were led on behalf of Paragon by relationship director Toby Burgess and portfolio manager Joshua Mann. The funding represents the third and fourth deal between Paragon and Elevate, following their funding of Priory House in Birmingham and Phase I of the Trent Bridge Quays project. The fresh finance comes as Elevates completes payment on the funding provided for its Priory House scheme in the centre of Birmingham. The £13.3 million development loan supported the purchase and redevelopment of the former Birmingham forensic science laboratory, located in the popular Southside, to create 79 luxury apartments. The development is over 90% sold, with residents already moving in. Imperial House on Homer Road will consist of a mix of one, two and three-bedroom apartments in the heart of Solihull, and within walking distance to the town’s train station, offering links to Birmingham and London. Construction has commenced and is due to complete in Autumn this year. Elevate has appointed Kavannagh Construction as the main contractor, their second deal with Kavannagh after Heaton House in Birmingham. The Muller Yard will be a mix of 44 new build apartments and 14 townhouses, plus two commercial units, on the banks of the River Trent. Construction started in April and is due to complete in July this year. Elevate has selected Bode Contracting for the project, the company it has worked with on the Priory House development. Steve Dodd, Managing Director of Elevate Property Group, said: “We’re excited about these two schemes. Trent Bridge Quays has been a great success and we look forward to bringing Phase II to market shortly. Meanwhile, Imperial House will be a fantastic addition to Solihull, benefitting those who work in the town, or who commute to Birmingham or London.” He added: “We have developed an excellent relationship with Paragon and particularly Toby and Josh. They have been a supportive partner on the schemes on which we have previously worked together and I’m delighted they have backed these two exciting developments.” Toby Burgess said: “Buyers like Elevate Property Group developments because they offer well-designed spaces with a much higher specification than is commonly seen. Both Imperial House and The Muller Yard are developments we are looking forward to seeing progressing, working with Steve and the team to deliver a great result. “We’re also delighted to have been involved in the Priory House scheme, which has brought a landmark building back into use in the heart of a vibrant and up and coming part of the city. This was a great project to kick-off our relationship with Elevate and they have been hugely successful in delivering the scheme quickly despite the challenges in the construction market post-Covid and then achieving impressive sales allowing them to repay our facility in less than 21 months. A real success story.”

Late payments improve for East Midlands businesses, but number of start-ups falls significantly

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Late payments improve for East Midlands businesses, but number of start-ups falls significantly
Latest research from the Midlands branch of the UK’s insolvency and restructuring trade body R3 reveals increased caution among East Midlands entrepreneurs with a significant fall in the number of newly-formed companies in the region. R3’s monthly figures, which are based on an analysis of data from business intelligence provider Creditsafe, show that the total number of East Midlands start-ups decreased by over a quarter (25.32%) at the end of 2022, falling from 2,235 in November to 1,669 in December. Growing caution amid fears of recession could also be behind a fall in the number of the region’s companies with late payments, with business owners tightening up their cashflow procedures as economic pressures threaten. The figures show that the total number of East Midlands companies with invoices past their settlement date dropped from 27,077 in October to 24,315 in December, a sizeable decrease of 10.2%. R3 Midlands chair Eddie Williams, a partner at PwC in the region, said: “Notwithstanding news that the UK economy grew by 0.1% (ONS) in November – boosted by Christmas spending and the men’s football World Cup – this research indicates that trading conditions remain extremely challenging. “Despite the current economic turmoil and its negative effect on start-up totals, it is encouraging to see a fall in the number of East Midlands companies with late payments. At R3 Midlands, we can see how hard so many local businesses work to maintain cashflow, demonstrating their creativity and crisis management skills in their relationships with suppliers, creditors and funders, as well as reaching out for professional help. “For those business owners with significant concerns about their situation, the sooner professional advice is sought, the more opportunities may be available for finding the best possible outcome. Many R3 members offer a free initial consultation to those who are looking for such help and want to explore their options.”

Pagabo appoints G F Tomlinson for £1bn national framework

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Pagabo appoints G F Tomlinson for £1bn national framework
Midlands-based contractor, G F Tomlinson, has been announced as a successful partner for Pagabo’s National Framework for Medium Works, which launched this month. Running from January 2023 until January 2027, the next-generation framework is one of Pagabo’s most popular and active construction procurement routes for clients, with 148 projects having completed to date. As part of the partnership, G F Tomlinson has been appointed to deliver projects from £500,000 up to £10m, throughout Yorkshire, and the East and West Midlands. G F Tomlinson will deliver public sector projects across the education, healthcare, civic, leisure, housing, blue light, highways and infrastructure sectors. In order to be successful, G F Tomlinson’s bid demonstrated relevant experience, financial stability and a strong commitment to social value and the carbon reduction agenda. As well as providing value for money for clients, delivering quality builds on time and on budget, and managing supply chain to a high standard. Since 2020, G F Tomlinson has partnered with Pagabo on several frameworks including the Major Works Framework, the Framework for Refit and Refurbishment Solutions, and the previous Medium Works Framework, which the new iteration now supersedes. Under these frameworks, the contractor recently delivered the £3.7m extension and remodelling of Cardinal Newman Catholic School to provide an additional 200 school placements, alongside a £2.4m urgent treatment centre at Lincoln Hospital, which expanded the facility’s existing accident and emergency department. They are currently on site constructing the £15.4m new Air and Space Institute (ASI) at Newark for the Lincoln College Group, which will provide a unique opportunity for school leavers 16 -18 to train for pilot, engineers and ground-crew roles in airlines, the military, airports and logistics companies in a state-of-the-art college facility. The company also has other projects in the pipeline procured via Pagabo, to the value of circa £35m still to come to site. Chris Flint, Managing Director at G F Tomlinson, said: “We are delighted to have been appointed to the National Framework for Medium Works, which is our fifth framework agreement with Pagabo. “G F Tomlinson has delivered in excess of £500m projects through public sector frameworks to date and with our expertise, commitment to delivering high-quality projects and our passion to enhance social value for local communities, we are best placed to serve public sector clients on all their project requirements. “We look forward to constructing and delivering significant developments through this framework, that will support the regeneration of local communities across the Midlands and North, over the next three to four years.” Tom Retallick, framework manager at Pagabo, said: “Congratulations to G F Tomlinson on securing their place on the second iteration of our Medium Works Framework. Pagabo have formed a close working relationship with them over the years, delivering 14 projects worth a combined value of £45m across our various construction frameworks, and so we’re excited to be continuing this through the duration of the framework.”

Freeths continues period of record growth with new Leicester office space

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Freeths continues period of record growth with new Leicester office space
Law firm Freeths has opened a new office space at Colton Square in Leicester, continuing its period of record growth. Located in the heart of city centre, Colton Square offers close transport links and networking and event space amenities which aims to accommodate Freeths’ continued expansion across the UK as well as enhance the experience for both staff and clients. The relocation follows year-on-year prosperity for the firm with ongoing increased employee retention, new lateral hires, and heightened client portfolios. Managing partner of Freeths Leicester, Mukesh Patel, said: “With a focus on talent and our offering for both long-standing, new and prospective clients, the Leicester relocation to No 2 Colton Square opens up a pool of possibilities to broaden our services lines nationally. “New equipment, working flexibly in ‘neighbourhoods’, café and social areas, new meeting room technology, quiet pods and breakout areas, helps offer a far more modern environment that’s well suited to our hybrid ways of working. “This move is just one of many across our national offices and a result of a culmination of continued national success over the last few years.”

Nottinghamshire outdoor clothing and equipment company secures £1.5m

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Nottinghamshire outdoor clothing and equipment company secures £1.5m
A Nottinghamshire-based outdoor clothing and equipment company has secured funding from the Midlands Engine Investment Fund (MEIF), provided by The FSE Group Debt Finance Fund and backed by the Recovery Loan Scheme. The £1.5m investment from the MEIF will help create 16 new roles, fund seasonal stock purchase, product development in footwear and e-bike lines and enable the UK to take over the bike frame painting function from China. Alpkit designs, manufactures and sells a range of specialist outdoor apparel, equipment and bicycles suitable for challenging environments and extreme activities at a significantly lower price point than large, high-end competitors. The company is also a certified B Corp, committed to the highest standards of social and environmental impact. The company’s registered charity, Alpkit Foundation, supports sustainability focused community projects. David Hanney, Alpkit CEO, said: “With a buoyant outdoor market and strong brand positioning we have built a business with £12m+ turnover that has great potential for further growth. “With challenging exchange markets and supply chain issues dominating trading conditions for many businesses in recent months, we are delighted to receive this MEIF funding, which gives us the ability to expand our employee base and seize the opportunities available to us.” Chris Bailey, investment manager at The FSE Group, said: “Apkit’s knowledgeable and experienced management team has established a strong revenue stream that is capable of further acceleration, thanks to a viable expansion strategy that includes increasing physical stores in the UK as well as their international online presence. “Alpkit’s growth momentum has remained resilient, despite wider economic factors impacting businesses currently, and we are happy to be supporting them on their growth journey.”

Planning permission granted for Stacey West Stand development

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Planning permission granted for Stacey West Stand development
Planning permission has been granted for Lincoln City Football Club’s development of the Stacey West Stand at the LNER Stadium. This project will provide a range of infrastructure improvements to the LNER Stadium, including new power and mains water supplies as well as a pitch water recycling system. Working closely with the Sports Grounds Safety Authority, the club have also submitted an application to trial safe-standing in a small section of the Stacey West Stand – with the intention of installing rail seats throughout the entire stand and into the GBM Stand should the trial be successful. The project will create vital space for Lincoln City Foundation by providing a new Community Skills and Education Hub based at the stadium. Building a new Community Skills and Education Hub will help tackle the growing skills gap in the city by providing the Foundation with a fit-for-purpose facility from which it can champion the delivery of education and employability skills, all under the brand of the football club. Martin Hickerton, Chief Executive at the Foundation, said: “This is fantastic news for everyone connected with the Foundation – the work we do in Lincoln and the surrounding area has never been more important. “This will help us unlock the real potential of the Foundation and we cannot wait to watch the new building take shape.” The contemporary new-build will offer community space, offices and dedicated classrooms, enabling the club to increase its social impact value and improve the quality of life of local residents through its wide range of educational, health and wellbeing initiatives. Funding for the development has come from the Be Lincoln Town Deal board as well as significant investment via the Stacey West Investment Bond. The Be Lincoln Town Deal board are building on Lincoln’s strength as a centre for learning and research to promote and enable a tech-friendly environment to support the growth of the digital sector. Charlotte Goy, Town Deal Board member and Chief Executive of Visit Lincoln, added: “The plans we have all been looking at over the last 18 months as Town Deal Board members are starting to come to life and we can begin to realise the positive impact they will make to Lincoln. We are delighted that the pledges included in the Town Deal original investment plan will be delivered for the benefit of the local community.”

EY grows Midlands Private team with new director appointment

Tess Egginton
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EY grows Midlands Private team with new director appointment

EY has strengthened its Private team in the Midlands with the appointment of new director, Anisha Patel.

Anisha will originate and build relationships with both new and existing clients in the privately-owned business market, connecting clients with expertise from across all areas within the firm, including tax and corporate finance. 

Anisha has over eight years’ experience working in mergers and acquisitions and growth capital markets. She joins from BGF, a growth capital investor where she was responsible for leading on origination across Central and East of England.

Tom Addyman, EY’s head of Private in the Midlands, said: “As EY celebrates three years of record growth, our work in Private has been at the heart of this. Anisha’s appointment and the growth of our Midlands Private team aligns with the investments we are making across the rest of the country.

“We are seeing an increased demand for privately owned businesses seeking relationships with partners who understand their needs. I’m looking forward to working with Anisha and developing these client relationships further.”

Anisha said: “I’m delighted to have joined EY at such an important time. The sheer breadth of services provided allows EY to support businesses in navigating the challenges they may be facing. I’m excited to be working at a company that can offer the full suite of services as a way of assisting clients with their own growth journey and I am looking forward to working closely with growing businesses in the region.”

New Ashby-de-la-Zouch office for East Midlands solicitors

Tess Egginton
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New Ashby-de-la-Zouch office for East Midlands solicitors
East Midlands solicitors Smith Partnership has opened an office in the market town of Ashby-de-la-Zouch. Smith Partnership – which already has offices in nearby Swadlincote and Burton, as well as Leicester, Stoke-on-Trent and Derby – believes Ashby represents a perfect location for its sixth outlet as it looks to contribute further to the area and regional economy. Jordan Williams, conveyancer, will head up the office in Kilwardby Street, Ashby, after the company seized the opportunity to take up office space there. “One of my associates owns a mortgage business in Ashby and he thought we would be a perfect fit to share the office space,” said Jordan. “We jumped at the opportunity. We are already in the surrounding area but this opens up a new catchment for us and allows us to be part of the Ashby community.” Managing partner at Smith Partnership, Kevin McGrath, said: “We were delighted to have the chance to get office space in Ashby because it is a really key location for us. “While much of our work may still be done over email and phones, we know how important it is for people to be able to come to a convenient office to see us face-to-face and we are delighted they can now do that in Ashby as well.”

Midlands Family Business Awards back for 2023

Tess Egginton
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Midlands Family Business Awards back for 2023
The UK’s only independent, not-for-profit annual awards for family businesses, the Midlands Family Business Awards is back for 2023. Returning after a three year break due to the pandemic, the awards is now entering its second decade to celebrate and shine a light on our region’s great family businesses. Organised by The Wilson Organisation – a third-generation Nottingham-based family business – the Awards are the Midlands’ only initiative dedicated to celebrating and recognising the success, achievements and innovations of the region’s family run and owned businesses. With 10 categories to choose from, there are accolades suitable for businesses of all sizes, across all sectors. Categories include Family Business of the Year, Best Small Family Business, Rising Stars, Employer of the Year, and Director of the Year. There is also Fastest Growing Family Business, Construction and Property Excellence, Manufacturing Excellence and Digital Excellence. New for 2023, the organisers have added the Sustainability Award, sponsored by Flame UK, which will highlight the very best of the region’s environmentally-minded family businesses. The Wilkins Group was crowned Family Business of the Year at the 10th Midlands Family Business Awards in 2019 and is confirmed as headline sponsor for 2023. Category sponsors include Buckles Solicitors, Family Business Futures, Human Alchemy, PwC, Shakespeare Martineau and Ward. Submissions are judged by an independent panel led by a family business leader and all finalists are entered into the People’s Choice Awards, which is decided purely by public vote. Move Against Cancer is the chosen charity that the awards will be supporting this year, with all profits from the awards evening donated. The black-tie awards ceremony is being held on 29 June and will be a summer event held at Kelham Hall near Newark. John Pye & Sons are sponsors of the Drinks Reception at the event. Having previously attracted over 300 guests, including sponsors, judges and finalists, the evening is a real celebration of the achievements of family businesses and is the ideal opportunity to bring teams together to enjoy an evening hearing positive stories and meeting other family-owned businesses. Group Managing Director of The Wilson Organisation and Awards co-founder, Charlotte Perkins, said: “Myself and my sister Annabel are so pleased to be bringing back the Midlands Family Business Awards, after a three year break. “It’s fantastic to have our current Family Business of the Year, The Wilkins Group, as our headline sponsor. Thanks to Justin and the Wilkins family, we’ll see them hand over the crown to their successor, which will be a very special moment to start our second Awards decade. “We have taken the opportunity to mix things up a bit. We have always held the Awards Ceremony and Dinner in November, but decided that a summer event would give us the perfect opportunity to have our celebration in summer-style. “Putting your family business forward for an award can reap a host of benefits and rewards beyond the trophy and title so I encourage as many as possible to get involved and submit an application. “There are so many family businesses that are having a remarkable impact on the Midlands region and beyond, and we can’t wait to see what brilliant work they’ve been doing. I wish all the businesses who enter the very best of luck!” All entrants for the awards will receive a free annual membership for online platform Family Business Futures. Created in 2020 by The Wilson Organisation to support the Awards, it provides a unique opportunity to learn from family business experts, and to discuss family and business issues in a safe online environment, with a like-minded network. Entries close on March 3. To enter, visit www.familybusinessawards.co.uk
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