Frasers Group to enhance retail operations with multi-year partnership with THG

Tess Egginton
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Frasers Group to enhance retail operations with multi-year partnership with THG

Shirebrook-based Frasers Group and THG have entered a multi-year partnership that they say will “mutually enhance retail operations at both groups.”

The partnership includes the integration of customer credit and loyalty proposition, Frasers Plus into THG’s Ingenuity platform, benefiting customers across THG retail sites. This marks the first Frasers Plus partnership with an external partner.

Frasers Group will also benefit from THG’s courier management services to drive the efficiency and performance of Frasers’ Australian fulfilment and logistics operations, supporting the Group’s international expansion.

Frasers Group will also be acquiring THG’s luxury brand portfolio including Coggles, strengthening its Premium and Luxury portfolio, alongside FLANNELS.

Michael Murray, CEO, Frasers Group, said: “Today we are pleased to announce a new strategic partnership with THG, which includes launching our consumer credit and loyalty proposition, Frasers Plus across the THG Ingenuity platform.

“This is an exciting step towards our Frasers Plus ambitions as we look to expand its offering across additional third-party platforms. We are looking forward to working with the THG team and unlocking further benefits for both businesses.”

Matthew Moulding, CEO of THG, said: “We are delighted to be partnering with Frasers Group across a broad range of initiatives, in particular bringing Frasers Plus to consumers shopping with Ingenuity clients, as well as to our own retail sites including Lookfantastic, Cult Beauty and Myprotein.

“Our luxury brand portfolio including Coggles has grown from a standing start eleven years ago, and we are eager to watch it develop further as an Ingenuity client. The success of Coggles has only been possible through the hard work and dedication of THG’s luxury team, to whom we all want to extend our thanks and gratitude.”

General Election candidates attend North Derbyshire hustings

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General Election candidates attend North Derbyshire hustings
East Midlands Chamber, in partnership with Destination Chesterfield, hosted a General Election hustings event in Chesterfield with candidates from all major parties invited to take part. A number of business representatives attended the session on 20th June at East Midlands Chamber’s Chesterfield offices. In conventional hustings format each candidate was given a restricted and equal amount of time to respond to questions from the audience. In alphabetical order the candidates that participated were: David Kesteven – Green Party candidate for Bolsover Helen Wetherall – True and Fair candidate for the Derbyshire Dales Lee Rowley – Conservative candidate for North East Derbyshire Toby Perkins – Labour candidate for Chesterfield East Midlands Chamber Director of Policy and Insight Richard Blackmore, who presented the session, said: “With the clock ticking and now only a couple of weeks until people cast their ballot, the hustings was a fantastic opportunity for people to ask whatever burning questions they had directly to each of the candidates about what they would do for the region’s economy and growth should their party get elected. “It was good to see such good turn out with plenty of questions for the candidates, at such a critical time as people decide who they believe might best represent their interests.”

East Midlands’ top 500 companies see turnover rise 18% to £97bn

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East Midlands’ top 500 companies see turnover rise 18% to £97bn
Turnover of the top 500 companies in the East Midlands has risen by more than 18% year on year to £97bn, a new report reveals. The annual East Midlands Top 500 Companies Index celebrates the contribution which the region’s biggest companies make to the economy – and this year marks a milestone as the EM Top 500 reaches its fifth anniversary. The 2024 index was launched last night (June 20) at the East Midlands Chamber annual dinner by Professor David Rae, of De Montfort University Leicester (DMU), who leads the research team which meticulously compiles the index, in partnership with colleagues at University of Derby and Nottingham Trent University. It is supported by East Midlands Chamber and Cross Productions. Top of the list for the fifth year running was Boots, the Nottingham-based health and beauty company, which recorded £7,467,000, although this was down from 2023’s £7,803,000. Derbyshire car supermarket company Motorpoint entered the Top 10 for the first time after seeing turnover reach a record £1.3bn. There were 84 new entrants on the list, compared to 97 who made the list for the first time in 2023. Top new entrants were employability firm Maximus UK, of Leicestershire, which entered at number 78, and Atten Group, an IT company based in Derby, which was placed at number 135. Highest climber was housebuilder Stonewater Developments which rose 295 places from 411 in 2023 to 116 in 2024. David Rae, Professor of Enterprise at DMU, said: “The East Midlands Chamber has been a supporter of the EM Top 500 since its inception, so we were delighted to be able to present the first findings of 2024 at its President’s Awards Dinner in front of leaders of major companies in the region. “With five years of data capturing substantial shifts in the regional economy and an in-depth Sectoral Analysis, we are eager to utilize this information to guide the future growth of the East Midlands economy. “The advent of the new East Midlands Mayor and Combined Authority, the East Midlands Freeport, the anticipated election of a new group of MPs representing the East Midlands, and other strategic initiatives signal a promising outlook for the region’s prosperity.” The index is compiled using Companies House data filed for the period between 1 July 2021 and 30 June 2022, including turnover and employment. This includes part of the COVID and recovery period. The number of people employed at the top 500 companies fell 1.4% from 434,348 in 2023 to 440,230 in 2024. Among the top 10 companies, while revenue grew 12.7% on 2023, staffing levels were down 11%. Richard Blackmore, the Chamber’s head of special projects, said it was reassuring to see East Midlands industry continuing to drive growth in the UK economy. He said: “The region has been through a tough few years so it is good to see businesses on the list thriving. Their success creates employment and growth for the regional and national economy and continues to highlight the East Midlands as a place to do business. “Many of the businesses on the list are Chamber members, playing their role in supporting and raising the profile of the region we work and live in. I would like to thank De Montfort University, the University of Derby and Nottingham Trent University for the huge amount of effort which goes into compiling this valuable resource.”

Keepmoat invests £102 million in flagship Nottingham land

Michael Fisher
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Keepmoat invests £102 million in flagship Nottingham land
Keepmoat, will invest more than £102 million into creating hundreds of new homes in Nottingham, with work having already commenced at a flagship parcel of land on the site of a former Boots factory. Partners from Platform Housing Group and Boots joined Charlotte Goode, Paul Hulme and Philippa Stewart from Keepmoat, at the 286-acre site near Beeston yesterday (Thursday 20th June) to celebrate the start of work on site and to witness first-hand the progress that’s already been made. When complete, the housebuilder will deliver 604 new, multi-tenure homes, regenerating the disused land and creating a thriving new community in Nottinghamshire. Of the new properties, Platform Housing Group will offer 319 affordable homes. Charlotte Goode, Divisional Chair at Keepmoat, said: “Keepmoat is delighted to be regenerating this landmark development on a very special site that will bring much needed, high-quality new homes and significant investment to the city. For this historical site alone, we are investing £102 million into creating a fantastic community and we’re proud to stand alongside our partners at Platform Housing Group today to mark the beginning of a wonderful community. We’re committed to delivering new homes for the people of Nottingham and the surrounding areas to transform the area and provide quality new homes.” Laura Osborne, Sales & Marketing Director at Platform Housing Group, added: “At Platform Housing Group, we’re thrilled to collaborate with our partner, Keepmoat, to build new homes in Beeston. “This is a hugely important scheme for Platform, to be contributing to the growth of a thriving town and to provide much needed affordable housing in the area. Beeston is an up and coming area with fantastic potential to become one of the most sought-after commuter locations in the Midlands, so to be leading the way with such a large scale development is rewarding.”

Leicester College launches metal fabrication workshop

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Leicester College launches metal fabrication workshop
Leicester College has launched a cutting-edge metal fabrication workshop to train apprentices and students for careers in the advanced manufacturing engineering sector. The new facility at the St Margaret’s Campus will directly benefit Level 3 Metal Fabricator Apprentices by providing them with access to the latest industry-standard equipment, hands-on experience, and expert guidance in precision welding and metal fabrication. Within the East Midlands, demand for metal fabrication jobs is increasing, with a steady rise of 2.4% over the next 5 years; nearly 1,000 jobs. Leicester College has invested in 22 new welding machines and 2 plasma cutters for the metal fabrication facility. The new equipment includes the Kronos 320T MIG/MAG, Kronos 400T Duo, and the Titanium 230 AC/DC TIG, all from GYS. This advanced technology will ensure apprentices receive the most up-to-date training, preparing them for successful careers in metal fabrication. Derek King, Managing Director of Kings Welding Supplies, said: “The work that Leicester College does in promoting welding to the next generation is incredible. I attended this college myself back in the day and seeing the continued investment in welding equipment shows the dedication they have in training young people.” “We are thrilled to have access to such advanced equipment from GYS,” said Nick Waldrum, Apprenticeship Commercial Manager at Leicester College. “This partnership with Kings Welding Supplies Ltd. and GYS will be instrumental in providing our apprentices with the skills and experience they need to excel in the industry.” Debi Donnarumma, Vice Principal, Study Programmes and Apprenticeships at Leicester College, said: “Leicester College apprenticeship programmes are building solid foundations for the future, not just training welders and fabricators, but nurturing talent that will drive innovation and growth in the Leicester and Leicestershire region for years to come. “That is why we have invested in industry standard equipment and technology to help local and regional business to future proof their workforce, increase productivity and remain competitive. We want to equip our students and apprentices with the skills and experience they need to succeed and help businesses to thrive.”

South Normanton office sold

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South Normanton office sold
FHP have sold Unit 17 Maisies Way, South Normanton to owner occupier Secur-It, the provider of security services, fire protection and risk mitigation. The property comprises 8,289ft² of self-contained office accommodation situated across two floors offering a mixture of open plan and cellular floorplates throughout the property. Situated just off Junction 28 of the M1 Motorway, Maisies Way is an office development scheme. Amy Howard, surveyor at FHP Property Consultants, said: “It was a great result to get this over the line for my client and secure a strong price on the property. Unit 17 had been on the market for some time and even though we explored several marketing options such as leasehold / freehold disposal and renting individual floors, interest was slow. “Secur-It were after a good level of office space near J28, and this property seemed perfect for their requirement. After the initial viewing, it was clear the property was suitable for them and we were under offer within a short timeframe following on from this. “The property highlighted the difficulty we face within the office market, especially on larger floor plate within out-of-town office locations. It is evident that marketing is essential in the disposal of these types of properties and exploring all options available to secure a tenant / purchaser. “After the initial interest was slow on the rental side, it emphasized the push for a purchaser, especially given the vacancy period my client was facing. I am delighted to have got this over the line and welcome Secur-It onto Maisies Way, they will be a great asset to the estate and I wish them all the best in their next endeavours.”

Walk away with a prize worth £20,000 at the East Midlands Bricks Awards 2024

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Walk away with a prize worth £20,000 at the East Midlands Bricks Awards 2024
With Business Link’s East Midlands Bricks Awards set to be bigger and better than ever this year, and nominations flooding in, there’s also a grand prize worth £20,000 on offer. Celebrating the region’s property and construction industry, the prestigious event recognises development projects and people in commercial and public building – from office, industrial and residential schemes, through to community projects such as leisure schemes, schools and public spaces. We also highlight the work of architects, agencies and those behind large schemes – and the Overall Winner at the event, sponsored by Blueprint Interiors, will be awarded a year of marketing/publicity with Business Link worth £20,000. A highlight in the business calendar, winners will be revealed at a glittering awards ceremony on Thursday 3rd October, at the Trent Bridge Cricket Ground – an evening of celebration and networking with property and construction professionals from across the East Midlands. To nominate your (or another) business/development for one of our awards, please click on a category link below or visit this page.
Award categories include:

Nominations end Thursday 5th September

Tickets can now be booked for the 2024 awards event, click here to secure yours. Taking place in the Derek Randall Suite at the Trent Bridge Cricket Ground on Thursday 3rd October, from 4:30pm – 7:30pm, connect with local decision makers over nibbles and complimentary drinks while applauding the outstanding companies and projects in our region. Attendees will also hear from keynote speaker Paul Southby, partner at Geldards LLP, chair of the Advisory Board to Nottingham Business School, chair of Broadway independent cinema, trustee of Clean Rivers Trust, chair of Nottingham Partners, board member of Marketing Nottingham and Nottinghamshire, and former High Sheriff of Nottinghamshire. Dress code is standard business attire. Thanks to our sponsors:      

     
     
 

To be held at:

Nottingham’s Chapel Quarter acquired as part of £236m deal

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Nottingham’s Chapel Quarter acquired as part of £236m deal
Sterling Property Ventures (Sterling) has snapped up Nottingham mixed-use scheme Chapel Quarter. It comes as part of a wider deal for a portfolio of seven commercial property assets acquired from BlackRock – acting on behalf of British Airways Pensions Trustees Limited – for £236 million. Comprising 144,906 sq ft in the centre of Nottingham, Chapel Quarter includes a 120-bed Premier Inn, 66,054 sq ft of fully let offices and five retail/leisure units (one vacant). All properties in the portfolio, which includes a shopping centre, retail and logistics warehousing, offices, a hotel and food and beverage space, are freehold or held on long leases and boast a combined income in excess of £18.5 million. James Howarth, Sterling’s managing director, said: “Our plan is to have a minimum of £1billion of assets under management. Acquiring a property portfolio from British Airways Pensions is a significant stepping stone towards that target. We are seeking high quality assets, ideally with the opportunity to add value, allowing us to bring our skills to bear. As this latest purchase demonstrates, we are sector agnostic.” The seven new assets will be held in Sterling’s SPV Endeavour Ltd vehicle, which is backed by equity investor LetterOne. Fund manager BlackRock, through its Real Estate business, led the deal on behalf of British Airways Pension Trustees Limited, with joint agents ACRE Capital, Morgan Williams and Capital Real Estate Partners handling the sale. Sterling was represented by Knight Frank and HP Four LLP. Colliers undertook building surveys, with MAPP providing property management advice.

Northants PR agency adds to team with new appointment

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Northants PR agency adds to team with new appointment
Ballyhoo PR, a public relations and copywriting business in Lamport, has added a new senior PR and content executive to its team. Linda McKeown joins Ballyhoo PR from Weetabix and brings with her more than 25 years of magazine journalism and communications experience accumulated in a wide range of industries including beauty, food and drink, manufacturing and property. Career highlights have included working on a campaign with actress Tamzin Outhwaite for Avon and launching Quick Bite, a magazine for the fast food industry, which was stocked in WHSmith and subsequently acquired by another publisher. Most recently, Linda has developed and executed an internal communications plan for more than 1,000 employees at cereal giant Weetabix, during the implementation of a new, multi-million-pound warehouse management IT system. In her new role at Ballyhoo PR, Linda will be helping to produce a business magazine, crafting press releases, articles and blogs, and securing press coverage for a range of clients. Emma Speirs, director of Ballyhoo PR, said: “I’m really pleased to announce Linda’s appointment and welcome her to Ballyhoo PR. She will be a huge asset to the team and brings so much experience to the business that will be of real benefit to so many of our clients operating in the sectors Linda has previously worked in.” Linda said: “I recently joined the Ballyhoo team as senior PR and content executive and have already been made to feel like part of the team – and it’s a fab team! “I’m really excited to be able to contribute in helping spread the word about the fabulous SMEs we support. “There’s also great flexibility in the role, with hybrid working in place. I especially love our days in the office. It’s great to get together and collaborate as a team.”

Freeths bolsters corporate team in East Midlands

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Freeths bolsters corporate team in East Midlands
Law firm Freeths has appointed Ania Vernon as corporate partner in the East Midlands. Ania joins the firm from Shoosmiths. As a well-regarded individual within the corporate finance community, Ania routinely leads the delivery of high quality indirect real estate M&A, both offshore and domestic. She has over ten years’ sector experience specialising in tech, retail and asset-manager M&A, and brings with her rich credentials for advising management teams on buy-outs, institution-sponsored deals and other transactional processes. In her new role at Freeths, Ania will help strengthen the growing presence of the wider national corporate team within the East Midlands. Commenting on the appointment, Leon Arnold, said: “The addition of Ania to the team comes at an exciting time for Freeths, as the corporate team enjoys a consistent upwards growth trajectory. The wealth of experience that Ania will bring will only continue our strategy to bolster services for clients within the region as well as lend hand to multiple, ongoing projects across the UK.” Ania Vernon added: “I’m beyond thrilled to have joined Freeths at such an exciting time. Having grown up in the East Midlands and called this buzzing region ‘home’ for most of my life, I feel invested on a human level in its continued prosperity. So, when Freeths got in touch to tell me about their reignited strategic focus and serious expansion plans here, the opportunity was a no-brainer. Suffice to say we’re definitely going to be a team to watch!” Ania’s appointment follows several significant corporate key hires in the East Midlands over the last two months including partner Martin Smith and director Hannah Tessyman.
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