- DATA MANAGEMENT AND ANALYSIS using Excel
- EMAIL SKILLS – email distribution and maximising email impact
- SOCIAL MEDIA tuition – platforms, set-up, posts, etc
- PAID MEDIA – explore paid socials, paid media and automated advertising
- SEARCH ENGINE OPTIMISATION (SEO) – improving website content to increase online ranking
- DIGITAL MARKETING support – creating content for websites, newsletters and social media
- Discover MARKETING TOOLS for your business
- Using tools such as GRAMMARLY to check written content
- Utilise MICROSOFT TEAMS to improve communications, information sharing across your team and hold virtual meetings
- How AI TOOLS can support your business with research, data analysis or content writing
- PROJECT MANAGEMENT TOOLS to support your business
- Produce ENGAGING PRESENTATIONS – make the most of presentation platforms such as Prezi, Canva and MS PowerPoint.
University offers free digital support for East Midlands businesses
Nottingham Trent University (NTU) in partnership with East Midlands Chamber is offering up to 12 hours of free digital support for businesses in areas across the East Midlands.
The support will be provided by a student Digital Skills Coach from NTU; businesses are invited to apply, highlighting the support they are looking for, and will be matched with the Coach with the most relevant skills.
The skills on offer from the NTU Digital Skills Coaches include:
Manufacturing output volumes fall, but near-term outlook improves
Manufacturing output volumes fell in the quarter to November, and at a faster pace than in the three months to October, according to the CBI’s latest Industrial Trends Survey (ITS). But the near-term picture is more positive, with manufacturers expecting output volumes to rise modestly in the quarter to February.
Total order books improved relative to last month, while volumes of export order books were unchanged. Both total and export order books were reported as below their long-run averages. Expectations for selling price inflation picked up in November, with prices expected to rise at a rate that is broadly in line with the long-run average. Stock adequacy (for finished goods) was the highest since August 2020.
The survey, based on the responses of 317 manufacturers, found:
- Output volumes fell in the three months to November, at a faster pace than in the quarter to October (weighted balance of -12%, from -6% in the three months to October). Output is expected to rise in the three months to February (+9%).
- Output decreased in 14 out of 17 sub-sectors in the three months to November, with the fall driven by the chemicals, mechanical engineering and metal products sub-sectors.
- Total order books were reported as below “normal” but improved relative to last month (-19% from -27%). The level of order books remained below the long run average (-13%).
- Export order books were also seen as below “normal” in November to the same extent as last month (-27%). This was also below the long-run average (-18%).
- Expectations for average selling price inflation rose in November (+11% from 0% in October) with the balance standing broadly in line with the long-run average (+7%).
- Stocks of finished goods were seen as more than “adequate” in November (+21% from +17% in October), with the balance the highest since August 2020.
Nottingham company’s Tourette’s wristband wins backing from NHS spending watchdog
A device developed by a Nottingham company to ease the symptoms of Tourette’s syndrome has been recommended for use in the NHS by the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE), the NHS spending watchdog.
Neupulse’s digital wristband stimulates the median nerve in the wrist to help control the tics or involuntary movements caused by Tourette’s. The company raised £500,000 earlier this year from the Midlands Engine Investment Fund II, through fund manager Mercia Ventures, to help it gain regulatory approvals. It expects the device will be approved for use in the UK before the end of 2026 and plans to make it available to patients directly.
The NICE recommendation is currently in draft format and will need to be agreed by a committee following public consultation, but if the current guidelines are passed, it could mean the wristband is made available on the NHS free of charge and prescribed by doctors once the device has been approved for use by regulators.
It is the first time that NICE has recommended digital therapies for Tourette’s and chronic tic syndrome. Tourette’s affects around one in 100 children, and more than 300,000 children and adults in the UK in total. However treatment options are limited. Experts estimate less than 20% of children and young people with tic disorders have access to behavioural therapies which are often recommended.
Neupulse was founded in 2021 as a spin-out from the University of Nottingham. Clinical trials have shown its device can reduce tic frequency on average by 25% on initial use, with a further reduction in frequency after four weeks of use. The company has raised almost £4.5m in funding to date to help bring it to market.
Paul Cable, CEO, Neupulse, said: “The announcement from NICE is a vindication of our product and clearly highlights the need for more treatment options. While we are planning to make our device available directly to people with Tourette’s, having it prescribed by doctors would bring the benefits to a wider audience.
“NICE has launched a public consultation and we urge those affected by Tourette’s to register with NICE and make their views known. Overall the draft guidance is a big step forward for Neupulse and for the wider Tourette’s community.”
Sandy Reid of Mercia Ventures added: “Winning backing from NICE is a major achievement for any healthtech company, but particularly for one at such an early stage. We believe that Neupulse’s device could transform lives and this recommendation further justifies our faith in the company.”
Neupulse is one of two digital therapies recommended by NICE, the other being an online guided self-help intervention, ORBIT (Online Remote Behavioural Intervention for Tics).
Value of tourism in Nottingham & Nottinghamshire grows to £2.36bn
Marketing Nottingham and Nottinghamshire, its visitor economy team – Visit Nottinghamshire and partners, have revealed impressive growth in the city and county’s tourism sector.
Based on the latest 2023 STEAM tourism data measuring trends and impact of visitor economy in the region, Nottingham and Nottinghamshire have witnessed a significant increase, underlining the importance of tourism in driving local economic growth and job creation.
The total value of tourism in Nottingham city and county in 2023 reached an economic impact of £2.36 billion, marking a 15.40% increase from the previous period. This reflects the rising appeal of the region as a destination for both day and overnight visitors.
In 2023, Nottingham and Nottinghamshire welcomed 34.33 million visitors, an increase of 4.12%. The average spend per visitor continues to climb as well, with an overall rise of 10.81% to £68.94 economic impact per trip.
Tourism in Nottinghamshire continues to play a crucial role in supporting local employment. The sector currently sustains 22,437 full-time equivalent (FTE) jobs, reflecting a 9.33% growth. This positive trend highlights the vital importance of tourism to Nottinghamshire’s economy, creating jobs and opportunities for local people across the city and county.
The sustained growth across multiple indicators, from visitor volume to spend and the number of jobs, highlights Nottinghamshire’s growing reputation as a visitor destination. Recent increased investment into the visitor offer and product – such as Sherwood Observatory, St Mary Magdalene Church in Hucknall, and the new play area at Sherwood Pines – alongside strategic marketing initiatives from Visit Nottinghamshire like the visitor guide, a B2C website attracting over 4 million visitors annually, and PR reach exceeding 251 million, places the region on a strong trajectory to attract even more visitors in the future.
This growth will further boost the local economy, support businesses, and enhance the quality of life for residents.
Megan Powell Vreeswijk, CEO of Marketing Nottingham and Nottinghamshire including Visit Nottinghamshire, said: “This significant growth in Nottinghamshire’s visitor economy is a testament to the hard work of local tourism sector, our team and partners.
“With a remarkable £2.36 billion generated in 2023 and increased visitor numbers, it’s clear that Nottingham and Nottinghamshire are becoming recognised as standout destinations for both day and overnight visitors.
“This success not only fuels economic growth but also creates valuable jobs and strengthens opportunities for our local people, making it a very attractive place to live, work, invest and visit. Through strategic investments and dedicated promotion, we look forward to continuing to enhance Nottinghamshire’s appeal and impact as a top tourism destination.”
Councillor Keith Girling, Cabinet Member for Economic Development and Asset Management at Nottinghamshire County Council, said: “We are proud to be the home of globally-recognised legends, from Robin Hood to our local sporting stars. With a rich history and heritage, world-class country parks and green spaces, and a strong contemporary culture, it’s no wonder that people travel from near and far to explore Nottinghamshire.
“Our partnership with Visit Nottinghamshire has boosted promotion of the county at local, regional, and international levels, this alongside working collaboratively with businesses and stakeholders has resulted in fantastic growth.”
He added: “It is extremely encouraging to see growth in employment within the sector as we strive to return to pre-pandemic levels. We are committed to building on this momentum and fostering a vibrant and sustainable visitor economy that benefits both residents and visitors alike.”
Councillor Ethan Radford, Deputy Leader and Executive Member for Skills, Growth and Economic Development, said: “I’m pleased to see an increase in tourism numbers for Nottingham and Nottinghamshire, our city is a top destination in the East Midlands with amazing retail, entertainment, cultural and heritage attractions.
“Hosting fantastic yearly events like our world-famous Goose Fair, our spectacular Winter Wonderland that kicks off Christmas in Nottingham every year and boasting unique destinations across the city like Wollaton Hall, Nottingham Castle, Newstead Abbey and the newly opened Green Heart.
“More tourists visiting Nottingham is great news for local businesses who work hard to give visitors a unique experience, growing the city and regional economy and providing jobs for local people.
“We will continue to work with our partners and stakeholders to provide the best conditions to build on this success to give visitors the best experience and make sure Nottingham remains the must-visit destination in the East Midlands.”
200° Coffee makes first store acquisition under new ownership
Nottingham’s 200° Coffee has made its first store acquisition since their sale to Caffé Nero.
The new venue is at Junction 32, Yorkshire Shopping Outlet and will be opening just in time for Christmas.
BOX Property director, Ben Tebbutt, says: “The Junction 32 outlet centre was an obvious choice following on from our success at McArthur Glenn, York, Cannock and Junction 29.
“Caffé Nero are committed to growing the 200° store portfolio and we are looking forward to being part of the ongoing journey.”
BOX are looking to acquire further sites for the brand in shopping centres, high streets, outlet centres and retail parks (1,200 -3,000ft²).
Target locations are in Manchester, Liverpool, Newcastle, Leeds, York, Harrogate, Sheffield, Nottingham, Birmingham, Durham, Cheltenham, Bristol, Bath, Oxford, Cambridge, Norwich, Peterborough and Cardiff.
Altia appoints Chief Operating Officer
Investigative and intelligence tech specialist Altia has expanded its senior leadership team with the addition of a Chief Operating Officer (COO) as it looks to deliver on its expansive growth ambitions.
The move sees Allan Dunn join the tech company as COO and as a new member of its Board of Directors.
This significant hire links with Altia’s ambitious growth strategy, with Allan taking on responsibility for executing mergers and acquisitions and supporting the company’s expansion goals.
Headquartered in Nottingham, Altia serves a global audience, providing law enforcement agencies, government departments, and private sector businesses with intelligence and investigation software.
The appointment comes during a period of growth for Altia, with the company having recently hired Sarah Saxton-Jones as Head of Product in September this year, which was preceded by two senior appointments in the company’s Asia Pacific team to strengthen its presence in the region.
Allan joins Altia from private equity firm NorthEdge, where he served as Portfolio Director for the past eighteen months, advising Altia’s CEO and the Board.
His strategic insights and operational expertise during this period have already been instrumental in guiding Altia’s direction, making him well-prepared for his new leadership role.
As COO, Allan will ensure Altia’s operational plans are seamlessly executed, enabling CEO Rob Sinclair to focus on long-term strategy.
Rob Sinclair said: “With Allan’s extensive experience in both private equity and C-suite roles, I’m thrilled to have him on board. His deep understanding of Altia and his success in driving growth across various industries are tremendous assets for us at this pivotal time.
“We’re looking forward to seeing the impact he will make as we look to grow our offering around the world.”
Allan brings over five years of experience as a private equity portfolio director and is a seasoned C-suite executive, with prior roles as COO and CFO.
A Chartered Accountant, he successfully led and delivered a $100 million exit for shareholders of a technology services company, contributing to its growth across EMEA (Europe, the Middle East, and Africa), Asia-Pacific, and the Americas.
On his appointment, Allan Dunn said: “I am excited to join Altia as COO and to work alongside a talented team dedicated to delivering impactful solutions in investigative tech.
“Altia’s commitment to innovation and client-focused growth is second to none and aligns perfectly with my ambitions. Over the past couple of years Altia has gone from strength to strength, and I look forward to contributing to its continued success and expansion moving forward.”
Rail firm launches care-leavers party appeal to fund festive fun
A Midlands rail firm which hosts two Christmas parties every year to help young people who have left care feel less alone has launched its annual appeal to raise money to fund the festive fun.
MTMS has unveiled its 2024 Make a Difference campaign, which aims to sprinkle some Christmas joy across the lives of young people from across the region during December.
The aim is to raise money to pay for all the food, musical entertainment and hampers full of presents at two parties, which will take place in Burton and Derby for just under 200 16 to 25-year-olds who live independently after leaving the care system.
The annual tradition started seven years ago in the wake of a series of suicides among young care leavers living in Staffordshire around Christmas time.
Trandeep Sethi, who is the district lead for children’s services at Staffordshire County Council, realised the loneliness at Christmas was having a devastating effect on the young people who had no families of their own to share the festivities with.
He put out an appeal for help to arrange a party for them and MTMS, which is based in Moira in Leicestershire, responded, alongside members of Derbyshire Freemasons, who offered to host the event at Ashfield House in Burton.
Seven years later, the venue is due to host this year’s party on December 6, with another party, again organised by MTMS and Derbyshire Freemasons, taking place at Littleover Lodge in Derby on December 9.
Malcolm Prentice, group chairman of MTMS and a member of Derbyshire Freemasons, said: “Over the years the parties have proven to be a lifeline for young people who, through no fault of their own, find themselves feeling isolated at Christmas, which is the worst time of the year for anybody to feel alone.
“Every year they come to us and we give them a couple of hours of fun, a roast turkey lunch and a Christmas hamper containing what are likely to be the only presents they’ll receive that year.
“Our staff and volunteers give up their time to run the events, but we can’t make the magic happen without the funds, which is why we’re calling on people to help us out by making a donation to make a difference this Christmas.”
The donations will pay for the meal, entertainment such as a DJ, band or musician and gift hampers for each young person with goodies such as clothes, toiletries and snacks.
Anyone who would like to make a donation can do so by visiting https://www.justgiving.com/crowdfunding/makeadifference2024
Plastic packaging firm invest in new machine to secure future growth
A Leicester-based plastic packaging manufacturer has invested in a new blow moulding machine to boost efficiency and support the growth of the business.
Family owned Measom Freer has purchased a GDK hybrid extrusion blow moulding machine from UK distributor 3PA which will support the growth of sales in the chemical market.
The machine signifies the company’s continued investment in new equipment and their drive to generate new business in the chemical sector with a focus on sectors such as janitorial and car care.
The hybrid, 10 litre capacity blow moulding machine will help improve production efficiency via automation and lower energy consumption. These improvements will enable Measom Freer to provide lower costs for products in high and low volumes.
As part of the company’s strategic growth strategy, new products targeting the chemical sector will be added to the range.
Measom Freer Production Manager Ben Freer said: “This machine represents a significant milestone for the business as we grow into new sectors.
“The new machine will enhance our capabilities and product offering to customers as well reducing our energy consumption and impact on the environment.”
Australian acquisition and investment in American team sees international growth for Grimsby kids swimwear brand
Children’s swimwear brand Splash About has seen international growth in both Australia and the USA. The company, which is headquartered in Grimsby, has acquired its distribution partner Little Toggs in New South Wales, rebranding the business Splash About Australia Pty Limited, and for the first time the business has hired a team in the USA.
The move into both continents will accelerate relationships with infant swim schools, retailers and facilitate distribution as demand for product increases.
Commenting on the Australian acquisition, Lesley Beach, Joint Managing Director of Splash About International Ltd, said: “The potential for growth in Australia is huge with over 1.8 million children currently learning to swim. We had a strong presence in the market working closely with Little Toggs, but the infant swimwear and accessories market has grown exponentially.”
Lesley continued: “Demand for our Happy Nappy swim nappy has soared due to its technical design which prevents faecal leaks. Unwelcome leaks are bad for business; pools need to close for cleaning and lessons must be cancelled, which results in unnecessary and avoidable expense.
“Insisting on a reusable Happy Nappy to prevent these accidents is a simple, proven cost-effective option, saving operational costs and in turn increasing revenues.”
To facilitate demand, Splash About has invested in state-of-the-art warehouse facilities to quickly fulfil orders and maintain a high level of customer service. In Australia the business is based in New South Wales and will be spearheaded by Little Toggs founder Kylie Hadid and in America, Damien McDonnell is heading up business development in Texas.
In addition to swimwear and swim accessories, Splash About has devised a range of flexible Partnership Programmes to work with swim schools globally regardless of their size, which are aimed at helping them drive revenue, operate efficiently, and decrease costs without increasing prices.
Surprise fall in corporate insolvencies as East Midlands businesses face new economic hurdles
There has been a surprise fall in both the month-on-month and year-on-year corporate insolvency numbers ahead of the chancellor’s plans to increase both the national minimum wage and employers’ national insurance contributions from next April.
This is according to the Midlands branch of insolvency and restructuring body R3 and follows latest statistics published by the Insolvency Service which show that corporate insolvencies in England and Wales fell by 10.4% in October compared to the previous month – dropping from 1,950 to 1,747 – and by 23.8% against the same month in the previous year (2,293).
R3 Midlands Chair Stephen Rome, a partner at Penningtons Manches Cooper in the region, said: “The decrease in corporate insolvency numbers may seem surprising, as concerns about potential tax changes in the Budget resulted in high numbers of Members’ Voluntary Liquidations in September and October. Directors of solvent companies chose to wind down their businesses before any changes were announced, which may have skewed this month’s figures.
“The big question for many businesses, however, is how the upcoming changes to employer national insurance contributions and the minimum wage will affect them. Although this will increase costs for all but the smallest businesses, the feedback from the market is that some directors and management teams will look to manage the financial impact by adapting their staff levels or raising their prices.
“Businesses in hospitality, retail and construction are particularly vulnerable to these changes due to high staffing levels and a large proportion of employees on the national minimum wage. Directors of companies in these sectors will need to review all their costs, if they haven’t done so already, and think carefully about how these additional expenses can be absorbed.
“The silver lining here, albeit a thin one, is that we have seen a more positive trading climate recently as interest rates and inflation have fallen and retail, hospitality and construction have seen an improvement in spending, sales or output.
“As we head towards 2025, we urge anyone who is worried about finances to seek advice as soon as they possibly can. Discussions with a qualified advisor at the earliest possible opportunity will provide more options for improving the situation and more time to take a decision about the next step.
“Most R3 members will give prospective clients a free initial consultation so they can learn more about their circumstances and outline any potential solutions for improving them.”
