Deals in Derby city centre support high street vibrancy
Commercial property consultancy OMEETO has completed a series of lettings in Derby city centre’s Cathedral Quarter and St Peters Quarter business improvement districts – supporting the resurgence of the area and particularly the progress of the Becketwell regeneration area.
The deals have been completed by surveyor Ruby Scott-Mullen. Recent lettings include an off-market deal to wine expert, Chris Barlow, who has realised a long-held ambition and opened a new wine bar and tasting rooms. Wine Stories recently had their opening launch weekend at 5-6 Strand Arcade.
Mr Barlow said: “This wonderful building in the heart of the Cathedral Quarter is the perfect place for Wine Stories and it is great to see this area buzzing again.
“This has been a dream of mine for many years and I am loving it. I am so grateful to Ruby at OMEETO for going the extra mile to help us secure the property.
“The feedback so far from our customers has been amazing and the whole Sadler Gate and Strand Arcade business community have been incredibly welcoming and supportive.”
Other lettings include a prominent retail unit on the corner of Sadler Gate and The Strand. The former Eye Gallery opticians is now due to be re-opened as a convenience store.
A street-facing unit at the historic Royal Buildings in Victoria Street has been let to AK Tattoos and the leases on two retail units in Babington Lane have also been completed.
Miss Scott-Mullen explained: “Although we work across Derbyshire and the East Midlands, we are definitely seeing an increase in activity in Derby city centre which is long overdue.
“Enquiries for commercial property leases have been steadily rising in recent months and feedback is that the progress on the Becketwell Regeneration area and particularly the pending opening of the new 3,500 capacity performance venue has been the catalyst for the surge in interest.
“I look forward to carry on working with all my clients to market new instructions and bring more new businesses to the city.”
Board launched to be voice of business across the region
Representatives from across the East Midlands are being sought to help strengthen the connection between East Midlands Combined County Authority (EMCCA) and local businesses.
EMCCA’s Business Advisory Board will provide strategy, advice and guidance to the main EMCCA Board, chaired by Mayor of the East Midlands, Claire Ward and EMCCA’s committees. It will help ensure the experience and knowledge of regional businesses is harnessed when making decisions around the economy, skills, transport, housing and the transition to net-zero.
David Williams, Chairman of Geldards, one of the UK’s leading law firms and business representative on the EMCCA Board will chair the new Business Advisory Board.
David Williams, Chair of the Business Advisory Board, said: “I’m committed to raising the economic prosperity of our region and through this board we will build a strong partnership between the public and private sector and ensure that the benefits of devolution can be realised across the region. We need experienced individuals to join the board who are willing to share their insights to help guide the work of the new combined county authority.”
Mayor Claire Ward said: “It is vital that we bring together representatives from across the business community to help shape the future direction of the East Midlands. Our region is home to a huge range of businesses from global manufacturers through to small high street retailers and through this board we can shape policies and support programmes that will drive growth across our region.”
EMCCA’s Business Advisory Board will include 16 members, including representatives from the private and public sector and East Midlands Chamber of Commerce. Private sector representatives will include experts from large businesses, small and medium enterprises and sectors with a significant chance of attracting further investment.
Members of the Board will be expected to have a good understanding of the East Midlands region and the business sectors that operate within it, experience of leadership roles in business and understand the challenges faced by businesses.
The Business Advisory Board will meet four times during each financial year.
New report sets out plan to transform high streets across the East Midlands
A package of new measures has been unveiled to help transform life for small businesses on East Midlands’ ever-evolving high streets, in a major new report by the Federation of Small Businesses (FSB).
Supporting pop-ups and temporary use initiatives for new businesses, creating mobile phone-based loyalty programmes and providing accessible public toilets are some of the recommendations aimed at local government to help the East Midlands’ small firms thrive and grow.
The Future of the High Street report calls for local authorities to create a specialised fund to support pop-ups, markets, and temporary use initiatives for first-time businesses to encourage new ventures and help them set up on the high street.
A total of 39 per cent of high street small businesses across the UK say the availability of affordable commercial space is important for the future of an area. Ensuring temporary spaces are available will not only help fill vacant sites but also provide opportunities for small firms eager to launch on the high street.
The report, which features in-depth analysis following a large-scale survey of small businesses, also suggests a specialised fund to support a mobile phone-based loyalty programme for high street firms and launching community-specific online marketplaces to showcase local shops and services.
The research highlights the need for well-maintained and accessible modern public toilets and family-friendly services like creche facilities on our high streets, encouraging visitors to stay longer, upping footfall and supporting the local economy.
Jennifer Thomas, Development Manager for FSB, said: “It’s important that small firms across the East Midlands are provided with the right environment, infrastructure and flexibility to be successful – and in turn help grow their local economy.
“From the core high street issues of business rates, parking and transport to more innovative asks, this report sets out a raft of recommendations to try to revive our town and city centres and ensure our small businesses are well supported.
“Local authorities can play a pivotal role in improving the experience of a high street, encouraging more people to visit, shop and invest there, and we look forward to working closely with them.
“Our high streets have been through many changes and will continue to evolve – and that’s why it’s so important that the small businesses at their heart are well-equipped for the future.”
The survey found local businesses in the East Midlands saw a range of closures on their local high street since the beginning of the Covid-19 pandemic, including: retail stores (70%), hospitality (64%), banks (62%), post offices (21%), entertainment venues (20%).
Within the report FSB is calling for a band of on-site high street chiefs responsible for the growth and wellbeing of high streets across the country, creating promotion plans and monitoring vacant units within their area. They would work with local businesses, landlords, BID managers and community groups to help encourage growth in the area, as well as lead a Vacancy Taskforce, monitoring commercial properties.
Business rates remain a huge burden on high street small businesses, with the current Small Business Rate Relief (SBRR) a key part of their survival. The research found 36% of high street small businesses in the East Midlands say they would not survive without SBRR. To help small firms to grow further, the SBRR threshold should be increased from £12,000 of rateable value to £25,000.
Good transport links are important for the future of the high street, according to 47% of small businesses in the East Midlands. The report calls for a high street hop scheme providing free bus fares on key routes during peak shopping days to help increase footfall and support local businesses.
43% of high street small businesses in the East Midlands say parking facilities are managed poorly on their local high street. Offering free parking on at least two Saturdays plus two additional days a month, would increase footfall and support local businesses by making high streets more accessible.
What innovative approaches to utilise when looking into expanding your business
Business expansion requires strategic planning and creative approaches to navigate the competitive market. Companies aiming for growth must address various challenges and capitalise on opportunities. Effective expansion is about staying competitive, understanding market dynamics, and meeting evolving customer needs. Businesses that incorporate innovative strategies can achieve sustainable growth and success.
Let’s explore practical and forward-thinking methods to help your business expand effectively and efficiently.
Uncovering Hidden Market Opportunities
Starting with one of the most effective approaches – finding market opportunities. If you can identify new market opportunities, it can help you drive business growth. The best place to start is to conduct comprehensive market research using advanced techniques, and employ tools like SWOT analysis to understand strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats. With this, you can analyse competitor strategies to find gaps your business can fill and look into underserved niche markets that align with your offerings.
In addition, engage with your current customers through surveys and feedback forms to gain insights into their needs and preferences. These insights can reveal new product or service ideas. Monitor industry trends and consumer behaviour to stay ahead of the curve. If you focus on these hidden opportunities, your business will be able to expand into new markets with tailored strategies.
Harnessing The Power Of Advanced Digital Marketing
Digital marketing plays a pivotal role in business expansion. Leverage advanced tactics such as AI-driven SEO to improve your website’s search engine rankings. Create high-quality, personalised content that resonates with your target audience. Use data analytics to understand customer behaviour and preferences, tailoring your marketing efforts accordingly.
Social media platforms offer powerful tools for reaching potential customers. Implement targeted advertising campaigns to reach specific demographics. Use social media analytics to measure the effectiveness of your campaigns and adjust your strategies as needed. Email marketing remains a potent tool; personalised email campaigns can nurture leads and convert them into loyal customers. Effective digital marketing can significantly boost your lead-generation efforts in the UK and beyond.
Forming High-Impact Strategic Alliances
Strategic alliances can provide access to new markets and resources. Collaborate with businesses that complement your offerings to create mutually beneficial partnerships. For instance, partnering with a tech company can enhance your digital capabilities, while teaming up with a logistics firm can improve your distribution network.
Negotiating favourable terms and ensuring clear communication are essential for successful partnerships. Develop joint marketing strategies and share insights to drive growth. Regularly review the performance of these alliances and make necessary adjustments to ensure they remain productive. Strategic alliances can accelerate growth and open doors to new opportunities, enhancing B2B lead generation.
Innovating Your Product And Service Lines
Diversifying your product and service lines can attract new customers and increase revenue. Begin by analysing market demand to identify potential gaps your business can fill. Use customer feedback and market research to develop new offerings that cater to evolving needs. Stay adaptable and pivot based on market trends and consumer behaviour.
Consider offering variations of existing products or introducing entirely new ones that align with your brand. Experiment with different service models, such as subscription-based services or personalised packages. Collaborate with your R&D team to innovate and improve product quality. If you continually evolve your offerings, your business can stay relevant and competitive.
Elevating Customer Experience With Innovation
An exceptional customer experience can significantly boost your business growth. Implement innovative approaches to enhance how customers interact with your brand. Use AI-powered chatbots to provide instant customer support and personalised recommendations. Develop a user-friendly website with intuitive navigation and mobile compatibility to ensure a seamless online experience.
Invest in training your customer service team to handle inquiries efficiently and empathetically. Introduce loyalty programs and special offers to reward repeat customers. Gather and act on customer feedback to improve your services continuously. Prioritising customer satisfaction can build a loyal customer base and generate positive word-of-mouth referrals, driving lead generation B2B.
Scaling Up With Strategic Operational Enhancements
Effective scaling is crucial for business expansion. Focus on enhancing your operations to support growth without compromising quality. Automate processes wherever possible to improve efficiency and reduce manual errors. Expand your physical and digital infrastructure to accommodate increased demand.
Hire additional staff strategically, ensuring that new hires align with your company’s culture and objectives. Provide ongoing training to keep your team skilled and motivated. Optimise your supply chain to ensure timely delivery of products and services. By strategically enhancing your operations, your business can scale effectively and meet the growing needs of your customers.
Strategic Financial Planning For Expansion
Sound financial planning is vital for supporting business expansion. Develop a comprehensive budget that accounts for all potential expenses related to growth initiatives. To secure the necessary capital, explore various funding options, such as loans, investors, or crowdfunding.
Manage your finances carefully to maintain a healthy cash flow. Monitor expenses and revenue regularly to identify discrepancies or areas for improvement. Set financial goals and track your progress towards achieving them. Your business can sustain growth and avoid common financial pitfalls by ensuring robust financial planning.
Expanding a business successfully requires innovative approaches and strategic planning. Embrace these strategies to navigate the competitive landscape and drive your business towards success.
Company fined thousands after failing to clean up land
A company has been handed a hefty fine by the Leicester Crown Court after failing to ensure a clean-up of an eyesore section of land in Earl Shilton.
Building waste, general rubbish and other mess was left on the land behind the former King William IV pub in The Hollow, Earl Shilton for more than a year. People living around the site complained the mess was encouraging others to fly tip in the area and that it was attracting anti-social behaviour.
The owner of the land was Regis Development Group Limited of St. Matthews Business Centre, Leicester. The directors of the company ignored several council demands to clean up the land, and the company was ordered to pay a £10,000 fine by Leicester Magistrates in October 2023.
However, Regis Development Group appealed against the sentencing and at Leicester Crown Court on 26 July 2024 the fine was reduced to £8,000.
At the original court hearing (18 October 2023) the Magistrates Court heard Hinckley & Bosworth Borough Council was first made aware of the problem by people living around the site in August 2022.
After Regis Development ignored informal advice, Officers from the Clean Neighbourhood team subsequently served the first Community Protection Notice (under Section 43 of the Anti-Social Behaviour, Crime and Policing act 2014) on the landowner on 1 December 2022. The Notice required Regis Development to clear the mess by 6 January 2023, but this was repeatedly ignored, and the mess remained.
Hinckley & Bosworth Borough Council’s Executive Member for Parks, Open Spaces and Neighbourhood Services, Councillor Lynda Hodgkins, said: “This land was left in an unacceptable state, and this can have a negative impact on nearby homes and businesses.
“The director of the company was given ample opportunities to clear it up but chose to ignore those warnings which left the council with no option other than to prosecute the company.
“We will not hesitate to act in these circumstances to protect others from the misery this can cause. I am grateful to all those involved, particularly local councillors Richard and Claire Allen and those local residents who originally highlighted the state of the land.”
Bespoke loan secured for major new student accommodation scheme next to University of Nottingham
OakNorth has provided the OMNI Developments SPV with a bespoke facility for a major new purpose-built student accommodation (PBSA) development in Nottingham.
Located in a prominent position along Radmarsh Road and facing the pedestrian thoroughfare of the University of Nottingham’s Jubilee Campus, the new six-storey, 222-bedroom PBSA will consist of 148 en-suite rooms and 74 studios.
A unique six-storey ‘winter garden’ will provide various co-working, dining, and entertainment spaces throughout the building. The zero-fossil-fuel building also includes an energy and recycling centre.
The project is being led by Andy Roberts, who has over 22 years of experience, a strong track record in delivery, and a reputation for innovative design. Andy co-founded property developer, OMNI Developments, in 2013. He specialises in student accommodation and high-end residential development projects across the country. To date, he has provided over 3,000 student beds, including three previous successful PBSA schemes in Nottingham.
Andy Roberts, Director of OMNI, said: “This new site overlooking the Jubilee Campus is in an excellent location for students living in Nottingham. Working with the University and other partners, we have jointly crafted a scheme that not only seamlessly integrates into the campus but has been significantly enhanced by an ambitious social and environmental brief. I fully expect it to be one of the most popular residences in the city.
“Working closely with Dale and the OakNorth team for the first time was extremely positive. Their transparency and ability to customise the facility to our needs was very helpful, and it was clear from our first meeting that they had a strong knowledge of the city’s property development market.”
Dale Cowdell, Director of Debt Finance at OakNorth, added: “Andy is one of the region’s most experienced designers and developers specialising in PBSAs, so we’re delighted to be able to support him with this latest project.
“His most recent Nottingham-based PBSA project, Graystacks, also provides a unique and popular product with exemplary social and environmental credentials. We look forward to working closely with Andy on future projects and seeing this development through to completion.”
OakNorth were advised on the transaction by Freeths, Knight Frank, and Emerson Bond. Radmarsh Road Holdings Limited were advised by Gunner Cooke.
Nomination categories in detail: The East Midlands Bricks Awards 2024
If you are yet to make your entries for the East Midlands Bricks Awards 2024, now is the perfect time to do so! Here we go through each category’s criteria – which can also be found with nomination forms here.
Winners will be announced at a glittering awards ceremony and networking event on Thursday 3rd October, at the Trent Bridge Cricket Ground, in the Derek Randall Suite. The evening will run from 4:30pm – 7:30pm.
Sponsored by: EMEC Ecology
Celebrating the contractors who work on the project, this award celebrates builders, construction companies and the contractors themselves, and nominees should be those who have gone above and beyond the word of the contract to deliver a truly exceptional service. Contracts must have been within the last 12 months.
Sponsored by: IMA Architects
The winner of this category will be the developer that has truly pushed the limit over the last 12 months. Their scheme(s) will have shown to not only be a success, but that there was true demand for them. The winning developer will have displayed courage in a tough market to deliver award winning results. There is no size limit, but schemes must have been completed over the last 12 months.
Sponsored by: Mather Jamie
The winner of this award will be the architects who have had the greatest impact on the region, be it in a single development or a series of them. Originality, the ability to rise to a challenge or initiative shown in accomplishing a difficult brief, this award celebrates our architects. Schemes must have been completed over the last 12 months.
Most Active Estate Agents of the Year
Sponsored by: Roy Geddes Bricks The winner of this category will be the Estate Agents who has had the biggest impact on the commercial property sector over the last 12 months, whether that be in deals done, quality of any given deal, or excellent customer service. Sponsored by: Tutum Consulting The winner of this category will be the deal that has truly pushed the boundaries over the last 12 months – from jobs created to complexity, size and scale. However, that’s not to say the biggest deal will automatically win; the deal which has had most impact in the East Midlands is what we’re looking for. The winning deal will have displayed courage in a tough market to deliver a great outcome for all concerned. Deal must have been completed over the last 12 months.Responsible Business of the Year
Sponsored by: Press for Attention PR The winner of this award will have demonstrated corporate responsibility in their field, working in harmony and for the betterment of the local community in which it operates and setting a shining example for the rest of the supply chain.Commercial Development of the Year
Sponsored by: Global HSE Group The winner of this category will be the commercial development that has gone above and beyond in fulfilling the criteria of the build, in terms of design and construction. This can include special requirements, features or elements that make the commercial development stand out from the crowd. Developments must have been completed within the last 12 months.Residential Development of the Year
Sponsored by: Devello The winner of this category will be the scheme that has displayed a true commitment to providing much-needed housing in the East Midlands. There is no size limit, but schemes must have been completed over the last 12 months.Sustainable Development of the Year
Sponsored by: Viridis Building Services Ltd The winner of this category will be the scheme that has displayed a true commitment to sustainable development in the East Midlands, whether this be in an environmental development, social enterprise or a scheme which will benefit the region in other ways, so long as it benefits the future generation. Schemes must have been completed over the last 12 months. Sponsored by: Cawarden The winner of this category will be the developer who has shown true originality in design excellence across a scheme or schemes over the last 12 months, whether this be aesthetically, functionally or in any other manner. Overall Winner Sponsored by: Blueprint Interiors This award cannot be entered, with the winner, and recipient of a year of marketing/publicity worth £20,000, selected from those nominated for the event’s other awards. Submitting a nomination couldn’t be easier – simply click here and click on a category’s heading to access its form. Nominations end Thursday 5th September.Book your tickets now
Tickets can now be booked for the East Midlands Bricks Awards 2024 – click here to secure yours. The special awards evening and networking event will be held on Thursday 3rd October 2024 in the Derek Randall Suite at the Trent Bridge Cricket Ground from 4:30pm – 7:30pm. Connect with local decision makers over nibbles and complimentary drinks sponsored by Devello Group, 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:
Derbyshire chemistry company staff serve up the right formula with community meal
Volunteers from a Derbyshire company exchanged their lab coats and science labs for aprons and the heat of the kitchen as they prepared lunches for the community.
Staff from Lubrizol, in Hazelwood, took part in the YMCA Derbyshire Community Meal, which, in collaboration with local mental health charity Head High, invites local businesses to provide a nourishing meal for people who might be feeling isolated.
The team prepared a veggie and beef chilli with regular and beetroot nachos for their main course and finished off with a selection of desserts including chocolate tiffin and coconut sponge.
Liz Chapman, from Lubrizol, participated in the event as the YMCA holds a special place in her heart, as her sister had once been a resident before transitioning to independent living.
She said: “I wanted to give back to the YMCA after they supported my sister when she needed it. She’s working now and has achieved so much. I’m incredibly proud of her. It’s all thanks to the YMCA after getting her back on her feet.”
More than 75 people attended the event at the YMCA, in London Road, which is hosted by a different business on the last Friday of every month and is aimed at combatting loneliness, a major cause of mental health problems amongst adults.
Chemist Lucy Armstrong, who has been organising the event since January, was proud of her team, saying: “We did this as part of our global month of impact as a company at Lubrizol.
“We thought the community meal here at the YMCA was an excellent opportunity to give back. It’s been such a great atmosphere here today, lots of people came here to have lunch and there was a nice, friendly buzz in the room.
“Lots of people came up for seconds saying it was really tasty so we’re feeling really pleased. We urge other companies to get involved, it’s been a great event.”
Staff at the YMCA assisted the six volunteers from Lubrizol, including Tina Sharma, kitchen manager, who commended the team’s thorough preparation.
She said: “The team from Lubrizol have been fantastic to work with. They’re not only friendly and approachable, but they also came well-prepared and have been very hands-on. The food was a big hit with all the attendees.”
Nottingham managed IT and cyber security services firm acquires Irish business
Nottingham managed IT and cyber security services firm Littlefish has acquired Storm Technology, a Microsoft business applications consultancy based in Ireland.
At nearly 700 people strong, and after securing significant investment from Bowmark Capital in 2022 (alongside a re-investment from previous backers, LDC), the move accelerates Littlefish’s next phase of growth.
The acquisition will enable Littlefish to continue rapid organic expansion, alongside the enlargement of its portfolio, with enhanced capabilities around enterprise applications and an end-to-end Microsoft M365/D365 proposition.
The deal is also set to allow Littlefish to harness new potential in the UK and Irish markets, addressing the growing demand for business-focused Microsoft solutions, while also expanding its customer base in Ireland via Storm Technology.
Littlefish CEO, Steve Robinson, said: “As a business, we’ve evolved from a bedroom startup to ‘the’ superior alternative to the multi-billion-pound, IT outsourcers, providing award-winning services and a world-class customer experience. This acquisition marks the next part of our success story, expanding our presence and footprint with a like-minded organisation and services that will materially enhance our Microsoft business solution capabilities.
“As well as a shared passion for delivering service excellence and genuine business value for customers through tailored solutions, Storm Technology shares our people-centric, expertise-led approach. I would like to extend a warm welcome to Karl and his talented team to Littlefish. We are very much looking forward to collaborating, innovating and growing together in both the Irish and UK markets.”
Karl Flannery, CEO, Storm Technology, added: “Joining forces with Littlefish marks an exciting step in our business and client journey, supporting our growth ambition – facilitating entry to the UK market, while reaffirming our commitment to the delivery of maximum client impact with the expansion of our existing capabilities – creating an end-to-end digital operating platform.
“Our team and clients have been an integral part of our journey, and it was important to us that any partnership would build upon the values that have underpinned operations since we first opened in 1995, including unrivalled customer experience and operational excellence. We are confident that we have found that partner in Littlefish. I look forward to this exciting next stage of the Storm Technology journey alongside Littlefish, our valued team, clients, and partners.”
Littlefish was advised by EY’s Dublin-based corporate advisory team led by Robert Hussey and Ronan Murray, and a combined UK & Irish legal team from Browne Jacobson overseen by Mark Hughes and William Darmody.
Market Harborough publisher under new ownership
Troubador Publishing is under new ownership. The company’s founders Jeremy Thompson and Jane Rowland have stepped down as directors of the company following a Management Buy Out (MBO).
The company has been acquired by former New Business Development Manager Alex Thompson, who now becomes the Managing Director, and Customer Service Manager Chloe May, who now becomes Operations Director.
Both Alex and Chloe have been working at Troubador for over two years. Both have been instrumental in the company’s development over the last two years, introducing the Troubador Hub and new technology to make the company more efficient as well as being at the heart of discussing new projects with hundreds of authors. Alex, who is Jeremy’s eldest son, has lived and breathed Troubador for most of his adult life. Outgoing Managing Director Jeremy Thompson said: “Troubador is in a good position at the moment following the last few years of Covid and the cost of living crisis, and much of that is down to Alex and Chloe having brought a new perspective to the company in a changing world. “It is because of our confidence in them, having seen the positive influence they have brought in the last two years, that my co-director Jane and I feel now is the right time to step down. We are absolutely sure that they will provide strong leadership while retaining Troubador’s ethos of quality and excellent customer service. “I started the company that was to become Troubador in 1989, in a back bedroom. Troubador became a limited company in 1996, and my co-director Jane joined in 1998. From that point on, together we grew the company to a staff of 29, and have published thousands of books on behalf of our authors. “While I shall of course be sad to leave the company I founded 35 years ago, I am very happy that it will continue pretty much ‘as is’ following the MBO. “I wish to thank all those thousands of authors who decided to place their trust in the company over the years, and all those staff members who have worked and are still working for the company. “It is the team members who make the company successful, and without doubt the staff Troubador now has is by far the most skilled and professional that we have ever had. I wish all our authors, staff and new directors the very best for the future at Troubador.”