The UK economy failed to grow in June – the second month in a row, in contrast to an expected rise by 0.2% month-on-month. According to new figures from the Office for National Statistics (ONS), GDP (gross domestic product), a key measure of economy growth, showed no growth in July. It reflects a modest rise in services output which was offset by drops in both production and construction: services output grew by 0.1% month-on-month, construction output fell by 0.4% month-on-month, and production decreased by 0.8% month-on-month. Ben Jones, CBI Lead Economist, said: “The figures suggest the UK’s recovery remains on track, though sector performance remains mixed and growth over the second half of the year will probably be a bit slower than in recent quarters. “Ahead of what promises to be a difficult budget next month, the government is treading a narrow path to put the public finances on a sustainable footing while maintaining the confidence of business and investors in the recovery. “The government must remain focussed on its agenda for long-term growth. This means avoiding further pressures on business costs and providing firms with the certainty and long-term commitments over tax, regulation and infrastructure that will give them confidence to invest. “By doubling down on the recently announced planning reforms, introducing a Net Zero Investment Plan and implementing a clearer, fairer and more competitive business rates system, government has an opportunity to supercharge investment and UK growth over the next Budget period and beyond.”

Ranger Fire and Security has acquired fire door business, Fire Door Specialists Ltd (FDS). This is Ranger’s first acquisition in the passive fire safety space, broadening out the Group’s offering beyond active fire safety. Based in Nottinghamshire, but offering national coverage, FDS provides comprehensive fire door compliance, including building inspections, fire door maintenance and installation. FDS has a wealth of experience equating to more than 150 years in the fire and safety industry. Led by Operations Director Ian Maciejewski, FDS has expanded rapidly over the past few years, with the company broadening its services to cater for all types of buildings, student accommodation, schools, factories and offices. Ian will join the senior leadership team at Ranger Fire and Security, supporting the Group’s growth over the coming years. Ranger evaluated numerous fire door companies before identifying FDS as the passive fire business that best met its stringent criteria and guardrails, including employing skilled engineers, delivering high-quality service, and consistently showing strong growth in its inspections and maintenance services. It also has an existing long-standing, reputable client base, including the NHS and Ministry of Defence. The acquisition of FDS is a key part of Ranger’s aim to provide quality service for its clients and a comprehensive one-stop solution by offering all fire and security services under one umbrella. FDS will benefit from the Group’s scale, technology, and broader services, which will enhance its customer offering. While Ranger’s longer-term strategy continues to be active fire focused, the acquisition of FDS complements the Group’s existing service propositions and enhances its customer experience. Mark Bridges, CEO of Ranger Fire and Security, said: “Fire Door Specialists is a well-known, respected business in the passive fire space that will add a new and key service to the Ranger Group. “This acquisition marks another milestone for Ranger in our journey to provide the highest quality, complete service offering and opens up significant cross-selling opportunities. “We are excited to welcome Ian and his team to the Group. As we continue to grow, Ranger remains a dynamic, maintenance-focused business offering a turnkey solution for all fire and security services across the UK and Ireland.” Ian Maciejewski, Operations Director at Fire Door Specialists, said: “Our decision to partner with Ranger was an easy one – it’s a company I have admired since its launch and presents huge opportunities for our business. “Ranger is the best partner for us going forward given our shared focus on providing a high-quality service for customers, and I look forward to working closely with Mark and the team to grow Fire Door Specialists, whilst enhancing our systems and insights, fostering collaboration and exploring new avenues of growth.” The announcement builds on Ranger Fire and Security’s previous acquisitions of AFIL, Ignis Fire Protection Ltd, Syncro Group Ltd, and IPH Fire Solutions Ltd, which together have helped Ranger to enhance its offering in all key areas of fire and security services, such as fire detection and alarms, extinguisher maintenance, suppression and security services. Since launching earlier this year, with backing from the private investment firm Hyperion Equity Partners, Ranger has embarked on a mission to establish itself as the leading one-stop solution provider in the fire and safety sector. Funding for the acquisition was provided by ThinCats.

Matlock Town Football Club has secured significant investment from a local businessman. The investment aims to allow the club to attract high calibre players to become a future contender for promotion. It will also, in the long term, help the club build on its financial sustainability. A statement from the football club says: “Matlock Town Football Club can confirm that an agreement has been reached that secures significant investment from a local businessman with immediate effect. “This investment will, in the short-term, enable the club to attract high calibre players to initially help maintain its NPL Premier Division status, and then aim to become a future contender for promotion. “In the long-term, this investment will enable the club to build on its financial sustainability, whilst maintaining the community, fan-led ethos that will always remain pivotal to the structure of Matlock Town FC.”