Platform Housing Group shortlisted for national sustainability award
A Midlands housing association has been shortlisted in the Company of the Year category at the 2025 National Sustainability Awards.
The shortlisting recognises Platform Housing Group’s commitment to creating positive environmental and social impact – from cutting carbon and enhancing biodiversity to supporting the wellbeing of its customers and communities.
Winners will be announced at a gala ceremony on 1 October at the London Marriott Hotel, Grosvenor Square.
With a portfolio of 50,000 homes across the Midlands, key milestones from Platform’s sustainability in action journey include implementing a robust sustainability governance framework including a board-level committee to monitor and oversee progress against sustainability ambitions, plans and targets; and growing its electric vehicle (EV) fleet and EV charging infrastructure, while adopting smart driving technology to help cut carbon from business travel and promote greener transport options.
Platform has also introduced climate awareness and carbon literacy training across the organisation, empowering colleagues to understand the climate emergency and make informed decisions, and has supported 230 colleagues to volunteer more than 700 hours across green and community initiatives.
The firm has further upgraded hundreds of homes with energy-efficient improvements, including air source heat pumps and solar PV panels, and ended fossil fuel heating installations in all new homes, switching to low-carbon alternatives.
Lianne Taylor, director of sustainability at Platform Housing Group, said: “Sustainability isn’t a separate strand of our work, it’s embedded in everything we do, from building new homes to supporting local communities. Being recognised at a national level is a proud moment for everyone at Platform and underlines our commitment to building a greener, fairer future.”
Hydroscand Group snaps up 9,000 sq ft facility at Stud Brook Business Park
A 9,000 sq ft facility at Clowes Developments’ Stud Brook Business Park has been let to Hydroscand Group.
Hydroscand Group – an international family-owned business – established in Sandiacre, Nottingham, provides solutions and services for hoses, fittings and related products.
Hydroscand will be relocating from Sandiacre to Unit 3b at Stud Brook Business Park in Castle Donington, allowing the business to expand and operate its distribution functions and improve its business efficiencies.
Mark Carpenter at Hydroscand Group said: “We’re absolutely delighted to be taking on this new premises at Stud Brook Business Park. This move marks a significant milestone for Hydroscand in the UK, enabling us to expand our operations and enhance our distribution capabilities.
“The new facility will allow us to streamline our processes, improve efficiencies, and ultimately deliver an even higher level of service and product availability to our customers nationwide.
“Most importantly, this investment reinforces our commitment to our customers ensuring faster response times, greater stock availability, and a more agile service offering across the country. We’re excited about the opportunities this brings and look forward to the next chapter of growth from our new base in Castle Donington.”
The deal was put together by Tim Gilbertson, director of FHP Property Consultants, who added: “It was a pleasure dealing with Hydroscand and agreeing a deal on this unit to enable their continued expansion in the region. They were drawn to Stud Brook Business Park not only by the quality of space available, but also the location and we wish them well in their new home.
“With only the last couple of units remaining on the first phase hopefully we will bring news of new occupiers there shortly as our clients continue to press on with development of the second phase of small units on the site.”
Lincolnshire food and drink gift company secures £500k investment
Luxury food and drink gift company, IMP & MAKER, has secured a £500,000 investment in a deal that values the business at £2m.
The funding comes from an unnamed angel investor in exchange for a minority stake in the growing Lincolnshire-based business.
Sarah Louise Fairburn, who founded IMP & MAKER in 2020, hailed the investment as ‘game-changing’.
She said: “It’s a real validation in what we’re building at IMP & MAKER and me personally. The investor was impressed by the strength of our brand, the quality of our products, and the breadth and range of our customer base. They saw the amazing growth potential in eCommerce and B2B that will see us grow to over £2m this year.
“He shares our vision to disrupt the food and drink gift sector with our beautifully packaged and personalised gifts that our customers remember and savour – all underpinned by the best technology.”
The majority of IMP & MAKER’s business comes through its eCommerce platform, a growing list of corporate clients and its existing relationships with retailers like Costco and Not On The High Street.
The investment will be used to scale the business and repay £200,000 in funding from the Midlands Engine Investment Fund II (MEIF II) and the Regional Growth Fund.
Fairburn, a single mum-of-four, said: “We’re debt-free and set for growth. Most startups have difficulty obtaining investment, especially in the eCommerce space, which requires large levels of money to gain brand recognition
“We’ve now got the right infrastructure and team in place to take IMP & MAKER to the next level and we’ve significantly increased our margins and reduced our customer acquisition costs.
“We’re on track to make our first profit this year and the £500,000 investment will enable us to take full advantage of the busy Christmas and New Year period. Thank you to our valued advisors – Franklins – in assisting with this investment and Collin Franklin for his continued belief and vision.”
IMP & MAKER employs eight people at its head office in Lincolnshire.
Fairburn previously worked at Fairburn’s Eggs, helping to grow the company’s turnover from £12m to more than £100m. She helped establish the firm as one of the UK’s largest independent egg packers, winning contracts with several major supermarkets, including Asda, Sainsbury’s and Iceland.
TextureJet secures six-figure backing
An innovator in advanced surface processing technology, TextureJet Limited, has secured a six figure debt funding package from the Midlands Engine Investment Fund II through appointed fund manager for the East and South East Midlands, Maven Capital Partners.
Founded in 2019 as a spin-out from the University of Nottingham, TextureJet is changing the way metal surfaces are processed with its eco-friendly technology. Its patented system uses a precise jet process for edge shaping, surface preparation and part marking metal components.
Its core product, the Stat platform, is a portable, modular system that can be customised for robotic, multi-axis, or handheld use, enabling high-precision metal finishing. The Stat platform supports a number of industries, including aerospace, defence, automotive, energy and healthcare.
The loan from the Midlands Engine Investment Fund II, along with additional equity investment from existing investor Foresight, who previously backed the business through the first Midlands Engine Investment Fund in 2022, will enable TextureJet to scale its production capabilities in support of several significant new contract wins.
The funding will also accelerate product development, particularly the completion of its 5-axis deburring machine for customer trials. In addition, the investment will allow TextureJet to increase inventory of its Stat systems for on-site demonstrations, participate in industry trade shows, and expand its marketing and technical sales teams to drive commercial growth.
Jonathon Mitchell-Smith, CEO, Texture Jet, said: “This funding from the Midlands Engine Investment Fund II via Maven comes at a critical point in our journey. It allows us to significantly increase production capacity, deliver on major new customer contracts, and bring our next-generation 5-axis system to market.
“We’re proud to be building breakthrough technology right here in the Midlands, and this support enables us to scale our impact across global manufacturing sectors looking for cleaner, smarter, and more precise surface processing solutions.”
Jonathan Lowe, partner, Regional Debt Funds, Maven, said: “TextureJet is delivering a tooling platform with world leading capability, and we’re pleased to back Jonathon and the team at such a pivotal point in the company’s growth.
“A real local success story as a spinout of the University of Nottingham’s Faculty of Engineering, all machines are built in-house using suppliers in the Midlands, which is a credit to the materials available and workmanship in the region. We look forward to supporting the business as they accelerate their expansion plans.”
Loughborough College and SMB College Group finalise merger
Loughborough College and SMB College Group have now formally merged to form Loughborough College Group.
The merger, initially proposed in July 2024, has now been finalised following a consultation process involving students, staff, parents, employers, and the wider community.
Corrie Harris, Group CEO of Loughborough College Group, said: “We are proud to launch Loughborough College Group and begin this exciting new chapter. This merger brings together the best of both colleges, unlocking new potential for innovation, investment, and opportunity. Our focus remains on delivering an exceptional student experience and developing the skills that will power the future economy.”
The merger strengthens the region’s educational offer and supports long-term growth plans, including over £55 million of investment in major initiatives such as the East Midlands Institute of Technology and a state-of-the-art Land-based Agri-tech Centre.
Loughborough College Group is set to become a key driver of regional development, supporting local industry, boosting skills, and positioning Leicestershire as a hub of innovation and opportunity.
DSFS wins national award for excellence in collaborative procurement
Derbyshire Support and Facilities Services (DSFS) has been commended with an award for its work in supporting the digitalisation of patient records across the Chesterfield Royal Hospital NHS Foundation Trust.
The DSFS procurement team has been nationally recognised for its leadership in delivering a major digital transformation project across the NHS.
Working in close partnership with Chesterfield Royal Hospital NHS Foundation Trust (CRH), University Hospitals of Derby and Burton NHS Foundation Trust (UHDB), and the London Procurement Partnership (LPP), the DSFS team played a central role in securing the prestigious ‘Collaborative Procurement Initiative’ award at the UK National GO Awards.
This accolade celebrates outstanding achievements in public sector procurement—often the unsung foundation of successful service delivery.
The award recognises the team’s work in the procurement of the Nervecentre Electronic Patient Record (EPR) system, which launched simultaneously across CRH and UHDB on 4 February 2025. The system is already transforming patient care by centralising records and enabling instant access to vital information via handheld devices—freeing up clinical time and improving outcomes.
Stuart Ellis, commercial and strategy director at DSFS, said: “This national recognition highlights what can be achieved through innovative thinking and close partnership. The success of this joint EPR procurement project reflects months of tireless work, strategic alignment, and a shared commitment to delivering value for the NHS. I’m extremely proud of our procurement teams in delivering this project.”
The DSFS team was commended for its strategic leadership, cross-organisational coordination, and commitment to delivering a solution that benefits both patients and frontline staff.
The EPR system is expected to return an estimated 4.9 million hours to patient care over seven years and continues to be rolled out across both Trusts throughout 2025 and 2026.
Small businesses turn to tech and sustainability for efficiency gains
Recent research reveals that small business owners are increasingly adopting technology and eco-friendly practices to streamline operations and manage growing pressures. Over 80% of business owners reported feeling confident in using digital tools to enhance efficiency and reduce manual tasks. Key areas for improvement include automating accounting, invoicing, customer communication, marketing, and monitoring energy costs.
Energy expenses are a major concern for many, with 22% citing it as a significant financial strain. However, only 24% of those surveyed feel fully in control of their business finances. Technology, such as smart meters, is being seen as an effective solution to manage energy use, offering real-time data to optimise consumption and cut costs.
Sustainability is becoming a priority for small businesses, with 84% indicating it is important when making operational decisions. Among these, 73% are more likely to adopt sustainable tech if it provides a cost benefit. Current efforts to reduce environmental impact include minimising waste, cutting energy usage, and investing in energy-efficient equipment.
For many, the push for sustainability also aligns with consumer expectations, with 31% acknowledging the need to meet these demands. By embracing these changes, small businesses not only contribute to environmental goals but also improve their financial health and operational efficiency.
Avery Healthcare expands its portfolio with Artisan Care Group acquisition
Avery Healthcare has strengthened its position in the UK care home sector with the acquisition of Artisan Care Group, adding 774 beds to its portfolio. This acquisition includes ten care homes across the East Midlands, East of England, and the South West, all previously managed by Avery under existing agreements.
With this move, Avery Healthcare transitions the homes into full ownership, marking a key step in the company’s ongoing growth strategy. The acquisition is seen as part of a wider effort to consolidate its portfolio of national care homes and continue expanding its footprint in the social care market.
The deal, which further aligns with Avery’s long-term commitment to quality care, reflects the company’s strategic focus on expanding its operational reach within the UK care sector. Avery Healthcare, which employs nearly 10,000 staff, continues to be a leading player in the healthcare market, supported by major investors including the Reuben Brothers and Welltower Inc.
This acquisition signals Avery’s confidence in the stability and potential of the UK social care sector, consolidating its role as a key industry leader.
Clowes sells quartet of units at Beauchamp Business Park to Edge Retail
Clowes Developments has sold four industrial units at Beauchamp Business Park to Edge Retail, a creative design and manufacturing agency that specialises in building branded retail environments.
The purchase of units G2a–d is a significant step in Edge Retail’s strategic expansion, reinforcing the company’s long-term commitment to growth and continued investment in the region.
The terrace totals approximately 16,200 sq ft. Edge Retail, currently headquartered on Grace Road in Leicester, will retain its existing premises and expand into their new premises in Kibworth.
A spokesperson on behalf of Edge Retail said: “Edge Retail had been looking to expand its property portfolio for some time, before finding the units at Kibworth. We were particularly impressed with the location, build quality and attention to detail that Clowes has incorporated.
“Clowes’ reputation was excellent, so without hesitation Edge Retail secured four units to allow us to grow our existing business, now and in the years ahead. We would like to extend our thanks to the Clowes team for their professionalism and patience throughout the purchase process.”
Sam Sutton at Phillips Sutton added: “We are delighted to have completed this deal on behalf of our client Clowes Developments.
“Edge Retail identified the space early on as being of importance to their future expansion plans, and we were pleased to assist in making it happen for them. We wish them the very best going forward.”
Goodward Construction
Established for over 20 years in the construction industry, Goodward Construction has built a reputation as a trusted leader in both residential renovations and exceptional commercial projects.
From modern architectural designs to sustainable building solutions, every project reflects a commitment to deliver high-quality craftmanship. Goodward’s team of skilled tradesmen focus on delivering excellence, on time and within budget.
The business’s expertise ensures that every material chosen and every detail crafted reflects a commitment to lasting quality and customer satisfaction.
More than just completing projects, Goodward focuses on building long-lasting relationships, continuing to support clients long after the final details are completed.
Commercial expertise
Goodward has a proven track record in delivering a range of commercial construction projects, including business offices designed for safe, comfortable, and efficient use; new builds, from small-scale developments to large industrial units; factory expansions & renovations; car & lorry parks; drainage installation & repairs; earthworks & groundworks.
The contractor recently completed an industrial unit extension at Line Equipment’s headquarters in Nottingham. The project has enabled Line Equipment to significantly expand their operations while maintaining full functionality of their existing facilities throughout construction, a testament to Goodward’s commitment to minimising disruption and delivering on time. The 1,291 sq ft extension was completed in just under 3 months and included structural steelwork, insulated cladding, new personnel and loading doors, upgraded electrical systems, and improved internal logistics flow. The result is a modern, energy-efficient space that supports Line Equipment’s future growth ambitions.
Residential expertise
Goodward approaches every residential project with the understanding that your home is a deeply personal expression of your lifestyle and values.
Quality is the cornerstone of the firm’s work. Goodward partner with trusted local suppliers and skilled craftsmen to source durable, sustainable materials that stand the test of time. From foundation to roofing, the business prioritises precision in every phase of construction, ensuring structural integrity and attention to even the smallest details, such as trimwork, cabinetry, or lighting placement.
The team also integrates smart-home technology and eco-friendly features, such as solar panels, to reduce your environmental footprint. Goodward believes a well-built home should not only look beautiful but also operate seamlessly, providing peace of mind for years to come.
Goodward’s residential expertise spans a wide range of projects, including new build homes, full home renovations, hard landscaping work, luxury swimming pools, personal tennis courts, and riding arenas.
To learn more about Goodward Construction, please visit: https://www.goodwardconstruction.co.uk/
