Siemens expands UK rail capabilities with new Northampton facility

April Lara
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Siemens expands UK rail capabilities with new Northampton facility

Siemens Mobility has opened a £6 million facility at its Kings Heath Depot in Northampton to handle train modifications and upgrades across the UK’s passenger rail fleet. The Multi-Functional Centre will support refurbishment projects such as interior improvements to seating, toilets, luggage areas, and charging points.

The new site will initially service East Midlands Railway’s Class 360 trains as part of a comfort and performance upgrade. It also enables a mobile engineering team to operate nationwide, recently completing a braking performance enhancement using Siemens’ Variable Rate Sanding technology and preparing for further upgrades to train data recorders to boost connectivity and reliability.

Lucy Rigby KC MP, Member of Parliament for Northampton North, said: “It was a privilege to officially open Siemens Mobility’s state-of-the-art Multi-Functional Centre and meet the highly skilled team working to enhance passenger journeys. It’s fantastic to see how Siemens Mobility’s local investment is fostering economic growth, creating new jobs, and developing skills right here in Northampton.”

The project will generate over 30 new local jobs and has achieved a 17% net biodiversity gain through on-site initiatives, including a wildflower garden and tree planting. The development forms part of Siemens Mobility’s wider UK investment programme, which totals around £340 million. This includes £240 million for its Goole Rail Village in Yorkshire, where new Piccadilly line trains are being built, and £100 million for a Rail Technology Centre in Chippenham.

Siemens has also strengthened its logistics network with new distribution centres in Kettering and Goole to cut road miles and lower its carbon footprint.

Rolls-Royce hails “strong performance” as transformation programme continues to progress

Tess Egginton
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Rolls-Royce hails “strong performance” as transformation programme continues to progress
Rolls-Royce has hailed a “strong performance across the Group” in a new trading update to 31 October 2025, as the company continues to progress its transformation programme. Building further confidence in the firm’s guidance for 2025, Rolls-Royce is expecting to close the year with underlying operating profit of between £3.1bn and £3.2bn and free cash flow of between £3.0bn and £3.1bn, despite continued supply chain challenges. In Civil Aerospace demand remains strong with Rolls-Royce securing large engine orders from IndiGo, Malaysia Airlines, and Avolon so far in the second half of the year. The business is also seeing growing demand for the Trent XWB-97 powered Airbus A350F from customers in Greater China and the Asia Pacific region, including Air China Cargo and Korean Air. In Defence, demand for Rolls-Royce’s products and services remains robust. In September, the Global Combat Air Programme (GCAP) consortium announced an expansion of a partnership to accelerate the development of power and propulsion systems. In October, the Republic of Türkiye and the UK signed an agreement to export 20 Eurofighter Typhoon aircraft to Türkiye, with an option for more in the future, which will be powered by Rolls-Royce’s EJ200 engines. It follows the sale of the naval propulsors business to Fairbanks Morse Defense completing in July. In Power Systems Rolls-Royce has noted continued strong order intake and revenue growth led by power generation, driven by data centres, and governmental. Meanwhile, in August, Rolls-Royce SMR advanced to the final stage of the Swedish competition to select a nuclear technology partner. In the UK, where Rolls-Royce SMR was selected in June as the preferred technology provider by Great British Energy-Nuclear (GBE-N), commercial terms remain on track to be finalised later this year. Chief executive Tufan Erginbilgic said: “Strong performance across the Group, driven by our actions and strategic initiatives, was in line with our expectations. “This builds further confidence in our Full Year 2025 guidance of underlying operating profit of between £3.1bn and £3.2bn and free cash flow of between £3.0bn and £3.1bn despite continued supply chain challenges. We are continuing to progress our transformation programme, delivering profitable growth, and further strengthening our balance sheet.”

Proici Commercial Interiors bring nature into the office to boost productivity

Tess Egginton
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Proici Commercial Interiors bring nature into the office to boost productivity
Proici Commercial Interiors successfully transform workplaces with biophilic design, utilising real and artificial natural elements to boost office wellbeing, productivity, and overall engagement. Biophilic design, which literally means “love of life and living systems,” taps into our instinctive need for nature and with a reported 17million+ workdays lost per year due to work-related stress, depression or anxiety, workplaces that actively incorporate biophilia into their office environments are seeing a positive impact on both employee mental health and productivity levels. As office design is now a major influence on workplace acceptance, according to a study by Exeter University, biophilia can impact businesses as follows when actively incorporated into the workplace:
  • 15% increase in productivity
  • 37% reduction in anxiety
  • 44% reduction in office hostility
  • 58% reduction in reported depression
Proici integrate biophilic principles into every aspect of their workplace fit outs, helping to reconnect staff with nature through thoughtful designs that create environments that are calming, inspiring, and functional. Use of open layouts and glass partitions allow natural light to flow, while ventilation and acoustic treatments ensure comfort and productivity. Natural finishes such as timber, textured stone, and natural fabrics also help to provide warmth and visual interest and are cleverly interwoven within designs. A signature feature of their installations is the use of living and preserved moss, often used in wall panels, branded signage, and planters. For spaces where living plants are impractical, Proici offer high-quality artificial greenery too and both options can be bought and rented. Renting not only provides flexibility for future re-designs, but also offers a financial advantage, as rental payments can be treated as a capital expenditure, allowing businesses to spread costs while still creating a striking, nature-inspired office environment. Since 1998, Proici Commercial Interiors have focused on human-centred, sustainable design. By combining real and artificial nature, Proici proves that biophilic office design is not just visually appealing and eco-conscious, it’s also a smart, adaptable investment in people, performance, and the future of work. Whether you’re exploring a new office, refurbishing an existing space or assessing a potential location – large or small – Proici can help you make the most of your space and your budget.

Council launches fund to boost North Lincolnshire start-ups

April Lara
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Council launches fund to boost North Lincolnshire start-ups

North Lincolnshire Council has introduced a new support scheme aimed at helping residents establish their own businesses. The initiative offers grants of up to £500, along with free advice and one-to-one guidance for those within their first year of trading.

The funding can be used to cover essential costs such as marketing, advertising, equipment, and professional training. The scheme is designed to reduce barriers for early-stage entrepreneurs and strengthen local business development.

Cllr Rob Waltham, leader, North Lincolnshire Council, said: “We are committed to creating an environment where entrepreneurship can thrive – this cash not only helps new businesses get off the ground but also ensures long-term resilience in our communities.”

Recent recipients include The Barrel Shop in Barton-upon-Humber, which used its grant to purchase a commercial weighing scale and stock control system, enhancing operational efficiency and inventory management.

The council is also hosting a series of drop-in sessions to connect aspiring business owners with advisors and information on available funding. Sessions will take place across the region between December 2025 and February 2026, including at Waters’ Edge in Barton, Ashby Hub, Normanby Gateway in Scunthorpe, The Angel in Brigg, and Crowle Hub.

The initiative forms part of the council’s wider effort to stimulate local enterprise and encourage residents to pursue self-employment in North Lincolnshire’s growing small business landscape.

Sable Cottage Nursing Home sold to JAS Care Homes

April Lara
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Sable Cottage Nursing Home sold to JAS Care Homes

Sable Cottage Nursing Home in Kelsall, Tarporley, has been acquired by JAS Care Homes Ltd, marking the exit of former owner Sunil Patel from the care sector. The deal was overseen by Montane Care, which supported the transition process.

The 38-bed facility, located near Delamere Forest in Cheshire, provides nursing, dementia, respite, and residential care services. The home, rated “Good” by the Care Quality Commission, has established a strong reputation locally for quality care and community engagement.

The acquisition sees JAS Care Homes expand its portfolio in the North West, taking on an established home with scope for continued operational development. The transaction reflects a growing trend of experienced operators divesting assets while newer groups look to consolidate and grow their presence in the care market.

Industry observers note that transactions of this kind highlight continued investor confidence in the UK’s elderly care sector, where high-quality, well-managed homes remain in demand despite broader economic pressures.

UK economy sees September slump

Tess Egginton
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UK economy sees September slump
The UK economy shrank in September, according to new figures from the Office for National Statistics (ONS). Monthly GDP (gross domestic product), a key measure of economy growth, is estimated to have fallen by 0.1%, below expectations for no growth. In part impacted by cyber attack disruption at Jaguar Land Rover, it follows no growth in August and a GDP fall of 0.1% in July. It reflects, across key sectors, services and construction activity growing 0.2% month-on-month and production activity dipping 2% month-on-month. The fall in production was largely because of a drop in the manufacture of motor vehicles, trailers and semi-trailers. For the three months to September, real GDP rose 0.1%, compared with the three months to June. This saw services output grow by 0.2%, production output decline by 0.5%, and construction output increase by 0.1%. Ben Jones, CBI lead economist, said: “The latest data underline how fragile the recovery remains, with the economy close to flatlining. Weak activity and waning confidence ahead of the Budget are clear warning signs that the government’s growth mission is faltering. “The Chancellor faces a pivotal choice later this month. Businesses need a clear signal that the Government is serious about unlocking investment and boosting competitiveness – not another round of tax rises or short-term fixes that would deepen the drag on growth.”

Eyesight problems slowing down workers could cost economy £21bn a year

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Eyesight problems slowing down workers could cost economy £21bn a year
UK workers struggling to read computer screens due to eyesight problems could be costing the economy up to an estimated £21.4bn each year. New research from Specsavers asked UK workers if eyesight problems such as blurred vision, light sensitivity or double vision slow down their ability to read a computer screen or read text on a phone or tablet whilst at work. Almost one in five (18%) of surveyed UK workers reported tasks taking longer because of these eyesight problems when reading computer screens. Of those UK workers surveyed who reported that eyesight conditions slowed them down doing certain tasks, they lost an average of 41 minutes each day due to slower reading times on computer screens as a result of eyesight problems. The financial hit to businesses from one employee on an average UK salary (according to the Office of National Statistics) taking 41 minutes extra each day to read a computer screen could be as much as an estimated £3,493. With around 34 million people in work in the UK, these eyesight problems could result in an estimated up to £21bn worth of lost time for the UK economy every year. Government legislation mandates employers to provide eye tests for staff who regularly use display screen equipment (DSE) for continuous periods of an hour or more. Under the Health and Safety (Display Screen Equipment) Regulations, employers must not only offer eye tests upon request but also cover the cost of glasses if they require a special prescription for the distance the screen is viewed at and are for DSE use. This legal framework is a vital step in safeguarding employee wellbeing and productivity, especially as screen time continues to rise in modern workplaces. Paul Morris, director of professional advancement, Specsavers, said: “For too long eye-care has been a blind spot for businesses. “The impact of failing to act on eye-care is causing a loss in employee time and productivity. “Businesses are legally obligated to offer free-eye tests for employees upon request as part of the DSE Regulations. This should not be viewed as a wellness benefit, but as a business benefit.”

Cranswick unveils £40m welfare investment after farm review

April Lara
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Cranswick unveils £40m welfare investment after farm review

Cranswick plc has announced a £40 million investment over the next three years to modernise and standardise its pig farming operations following an independent review of its animal welfare practices.

The veterinarian-led review, carried out by Dr Andy Butterworth, examined 20 Cranswick pig farms between June and August 2025. It confirmed compliance with legal and industry animal welfare standards and found no evidence of poor handling or mistreatment. The review also identified opportunities to strengthen consistency, training, and oversight across the business.

In response, Cranswick’s board has approved a six-point plan to raise welfare standards across all its farms. The plan includes a full review of training and farm culture, standardised operating procedures, and the rollout of AI-enabled CCTV to enhance welfare monitoring. Five new welfare officer roles will be established within a new Cranswick Welfare Hub, which will serve as a centre for training, research, and oversight of surveillance.

The company will also integrate the updated welfare protocols into its ESG framework, with regular board-level progress reviews. Full details of the six-point plan are expected by December 2025.

Former professional footballer passes Derbyshire hospitality business onto next generation

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Former professional footballer passes Derbyshire hospitality business onto next generation
Former professional footballer Kevin Gage has passed his Derbyshire hotel, cafe and bar onto a family member after announcing his retirement from the business. Kevin, who made more than 400 appearances for Sheffield United, Wimbledon, Aston Villa, Preston North End and Hull City over a 19-year career, has run the 15th century Grade II Listed Manor House Hotel in the heart of the historic market town of Dronfield since 2008. Now, his step-daughter Isobel Ford, and her partner Elliott Hill, have taken up the reins with big plans for the character venue. James Burdekin and Travis Wood from Sheffield’s MD Law advised on the corporate and commercial property legal work for the transaction while Paul Naylor at Optimum Finance handled the finance support package via NatWest, and Mitchells Accountants dealt with the accounting structure. Kevin said: “I am delighted that we have been able to keep The Manor House Hotel in the family and genuinely had no idea that this was possible. Thanks to excellent advice from MD Law, Mitchells and Optimum Finance, the legacy I have worked to build is now safely in the hands of my stepdaughter and her partner. I am 100 per cent confident they will continue to build on excellent foundations and take The Manor House forward into its next phase.” Isobel added: “It is a really exciting time to take on The Manor House Hotel and we are all working very hard to get the new offerings out there to people and make sure they are the best they can be.” Travis Wood of MD Law said: “It is always great to work on family businesses and help those hard-working families achieve their aims and goals, especially when the business is such a staple to a local community. I’m sure I speak for all at MD Law when I say best wishes and good luck!” Paul Naylor at Optimum Finance added: “It’s been a pleasure to work with The Manor House Hotel once again. I assisted with the initial purchase back in 2008 and have been proud to support the business ever since. “It’s been great to help guide the company into its next chapter. I’d like to take this opportunity to wish Kevin a very happy retirement, and to wish Isobel and Elliott every success as they continue to grow this fantastic business.”

Derby firm shows community commitment with support for DIY SOS home makeovers

Tess Egginton
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Derby firm shows community commitment with support for DIY SOS home makeovers
Derby-based project managers, construction cost consultants, and building surveyors Armsons Barlow have reaffirmed a commitment to corporate social responsibility through their recent pro-bono work supporting DIY SOS on their projects. Armsons Barlow have been providing quantity surveying services, including materials take offs, assisting with specifications and construction advice on numerous projects that are currently being shown on BBC One including the forthcoming Children in Need Episode. This saw the DIY SOS team transform children’s cancer support charity, The Joshua Tree. Based in Chester, the charity was founded by Lynda and Dai Hill after their son Joshua was diagnosed with Leukaemia when he was five years old. Happily, Joshua went on to make a full recovery and even helps out at the Centre. The first project Armsons Barlow supported earlier this year was a special project in Aylestone, Leicester, for seven-year-old Isla, who lives with Mandibuloacral Dysplasia – a rare genetic condition that causes brittle bones, premature aging, and limited mobility. Isla is believed to be the only person in the UK with this specific form of the condition. To help Isla live more comfortably and independently, the DIY SOS team, with support from Armsons Barlow, redesigned the family home to include specialist adaptations. These included enhanced accessibility features, dedicated therapy spaces, and a nurturing environment to help Isla thrive despite the challenges she faces every day. Since its launch in 1999, DIY SOS has completed hundreds of life-changing projects across the UK – made possible through the collective effort of local tradespeople, suppliers, and volunteers. Sally Walters, director at Armsons Barlow, said: “We’re incredibly proud to support DIY SOS and to help deliver projects that have a meaningful and lasting impact on people’s lives. The programme has become known for bringing communities together to support families in crisis – and Armsons Barlow is proud to play our part. “These builds are about more than bricks and mortar, they’re about offering hope and making daily life more manageable for families facing unimaginable challenges. “Alongside our partnership with Derby County Community Trust, this is part of our on-going commitment to using our expertise to strengthen and support the communities we work in.”
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