Biz Network March 2025

THE FIRST WORD

It’s remarkable the change that UK manufacturing has been through in just a few short decades. Someone in fashion retail told me that when they started out at the turn of this century they would regularly deal with suppliers a few miles up the road in Leicester and Hinckley.

Then, as overseas competition increased, they started dealing more with factories in Portugal and Turkey.

A few years later there was a shift to sourcing more from Hong Kong, and now they deal with mega-factories in China, India and Bangladesh.

As Chamber president Dawn Whitemore succinctly points out in her Last Word comment on page 90, we should be doing more to get Britain onshoring more of the parts, materials and products that it continually needs.

And the East Midlands is historically brilliantly placed to do just that.

We might not have the scale of manufacturing we once had, but the quality we do have is something to shout about.

Rolls-Royce, Toyota, Samworth Brothers, Alstom, Caterpillar, Vaillant Group are all at the top of their games – pumping billions into the economy, supporting the jobs of thousands of people and helping keep the UK at the centre of global industry.

And it’s not just those big hitters that we should be proud of. There are thousands of smaller manufacturers – including textile factories that still have a part to play in the UK rag trade – that are busy, getting on with the work of keeping Britain ticking over.

This month’s Big Interview, for instance, is with a Derby start-up that predicts multi-million pound growth for its revolutionary blackout blinds. That business is expanding into Australia, New Zealand, America, South Africa and Canada.

We also hear from Cosy Direct, which hopes to side-step the trade war between the US and Canada to sell its nursery toys and furniture to both countries.

Then there is Nottingham sweet seller Treat Kitchen, whose products are stocked by Tesco, Spar, Sainsbury's, Moonpig, Funky Pigeon, Scribbler. We also talk to West Special Fasteners, whose products hold together everything from the world’s deepest diving submarine and are critical in oil and gas.

If these stories prove anything, it's that East Midlands manufacturing has a strong future.

Tom Pegden, Editor, Business Network

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COVER PHOTO

Manufacturing focus: The Force is strong with Treat Kitchen’s Stormtrooper helmet Easter egg.

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MARCH 2025

MEMBER NEWS

4 Derby-based body to overhaul railways

APPOINTMENTS

24 Creative agency adds two new faces

THE BIG INTERVIEW

27 Paul Cheetham and Lenny Reynolds, cofounders of Derby-based Blind Screen

STRATEGIC PARTNERS AND PATRONS

32 Rolls-Royce joins unique recycling initiative

CHAMBER NEWS

34 Business expo puts the focus on AI

CHAMBER NETWORKS

46 Entry deadline for Generation Next Awards has been extended

TRAINING & EVENTS

52 Manufacturing conference will look at ways firms can go for growth

SUSTAINABLE EAST MIDLANDS

56 Software solutions firm invests in renewable energy

INTERNATIONAL TRADE

58 Chamber backs BCC trade proposals

POLITICS

60 Region’s councils plan for restructure

FEATURES

62 LOGISTICS, FREIGHT & TRANSPORTATION

Freeport offers a strategic gateway for logistics growth

64 Is a freight forwarder right for you?

66FOCUS

Business Network rounds up some of the latest developments in the region’s manufacturing scene

72 CREATIVE INDUSTRIES

The importance of strategy AND culture

76 How workspaces can boost creativity

DIGITAL & TECHNOLOGY

78 A profile of TecInteractive

BUSINESS SUPPORT

80 LEGAL

CMP Legal advises on deals worth £140m

83FINANCE

Skills business secures start-up funding

84SKILLS

Students help mining teams’ safety training

86 PROPERTY

Airport submits plans for industrial park

88 MOTORING

Nick Jones visits motorbike trade show

THE LAST WORD

90 Chamber President Dawn Whitemore on why the UK manufacturing industry deserves government support

THE

Railway overhaul will get country on track

The Government is planning a landmark bill to “rewire” Britain’s railways, including setting up a powerful passenger watchdog to give passengers a voice and hold train operators to account.

The huge overhaul will formally establish Great British Railways (GBR), the Derby-based body which hopes to bring the management of tracks and trains together, deliver more reliable services for passengers and support economic growth.

The Government says the plans will “smash” the broken rail system, put passengers at the forefront of all railway decisions and end years of failures and disruptions – ending outdated and inefficient processes which have led to poor performance, timetable chaos and complex fares and ticketing.

It will also give devolved leaders more of a say on the services that directly impact their towns and cities.

The independent watchdog will ensure GBR addresses passenger complaints, roots out the problems that cause poor journeys, makes sure passengers get clear information when they travel and help tackle the maze of confusing rail fares and tickets.

‘We will be raising living standards and connecting people to work, education, healthcare and leisure’

It will also hold operators to account on behalf of passengers and arbitrate over the handling of complaints.

In its consultation document the Government said GBR “marks a significant shift from the privatised model introduced in the 1990s”.

Last September, the Government set up Shadow Great British Railways, bringing together managers from Network Rail, publicly-owned rail operators, and parts of the Department for Transport.

Work is continuing on finding a permanent home for GBR in Derby.

When formally launched a guiding principle will also be to work closely with the private sector to create jobs and drive investment and innovation – investing billions of pounds in the private sector supply chain, so that improvements to the network are more coordinated.

It will also promote rail freight.

Secretary of State for Transport

have put up with broken railways for far too long. This landmark reform will sweep away decades of failure, creating a Great British Railways passengers can rely on.

“We’re giving passengers a powerful voice with a new watchdog dedicated to addressing their biggest concerns, building railways people can trust, improving our services and boosting the economy in the process – the priority in our Plan for Change.

“These plans are the next step in establishing GBR, which will end years of fragmentation by bringing track and train together in a unified, simplified railway. As part of the biggest overhaul to the network in a generation, we will be raising living standards and connecting people to work, education, healthcare and leisure, supporting growth across the country.”

Laura Shoaf, chair of Shadow Great British Railways, said: “GBR will fundamentally change our railways, delivering growth, connections and opportunities across the country… allowing industry to work closer together, putting passengers and customers first and providing better value for money for taxpayers.”

Heidi Alexander said: “Passengers

The Nottingham Forest City Ground will host England’s senior men’s team in an international friendly against Senegal in the summer.

The Reds’ iconic home will host the Three Lions for the first time in 84 years, as England’s preparations for the 2026 FIFA World Cup continue.

Thomas Tuchel’s side will face Senegal in a 7.45pm kick-off on Tuesday, 10 June, three days after

Derby Guildhall Theatre

The City Ground, home of Nottingham Forest FC

Derby railway station

Forest stadium to host England friendly fixture

Cup qualifier.

Thomas Tuchel said: “While I know Wembley is our home, I also understand the importance of taking the team around the country when we are able to and the opportunity to experience playing at a famous old English stadium such as the City Ground is one, we can all look forward to.”

The City Ground last played host to England’s senior men’s team in a

1941, with the last competitive match played on Trentside dating back to 1909 against the same opponents.

In recent years, Callum HudsonOdoi and Morgan Gibbs-White have represented the Three Lions at senior level, with Elliot Anderson also making his debut for the Under 21s earlier this season.

Ticket details for this fixture will be confirmed in due course.

Inward investment strategy acclaimed

Derby’s strategy for attracting overseas investment has been named among the best in Europe by the Financial Times

The Financial Times’ fDi (foreign direct investment) European Cities and Regions of the Future 2025 rankings, placed the city sixth in its list of small European cities.

Part of Marketing Derby’s Invest in Derby service involves attracting foreign direct investment to the city.

Managing director John Forkin said: “Over the years, Derby’s inward investment strategy has consistently been placed in the top 10 of these prestigious rankings –and we are delighted to be included once again.

“Despite the challenging global economic landscape, not to mention the geopolitical uncertainties, Derby’s proven strategy continues to successfully attract overseas investors.

“Our city has always prided itself as a UK home for the international business community and our recent successes illustrate this.”

The Financial Times rankings are one of the industry’s most prominent benchmarks of FDI competitiveness, measuring economic, financial and business strengths.

Marketing Derby said the city had focused heavily on diversifying its economy in recent years, winning investment from big companies and investors including German heating technology giant Vaillant, Swedish medical technology manufacturer Getinge and South Korean car manufacturer Kia. All three companies have invested in new bases at Indurent Park Derby.

Elsewhere, Cale Street Partners, backed by the Kuwaiti Sovereign Wealth Fund, is continuing to invest in the Derbion shopping centre.

Updated submission for freight interchange

Management at Tritax Big Box Developments have supplied a fresh submission to the Secretary of State regarding their plans for an £800m Hinckley National Rail Freight Interchange in the Leicestershire countryside.

The developer wants to build the vast site on the rail line between Leicester and Hinckley with a new access on to the M69.

Tritax say it could strengthen rail freight connections between the Midlands and ports in Felixstowe, Liverpool, London Gateway, Southampton, Teesport and Mossend in Scotland – adding between £329m and £406m a year to the economy.

They said the submission will help the Secretary of State with her decision on whether to grant a Development Consent Order for the plans, and came after the Government outlined major infrastructure initiatives to revitalise UK plc.

The site would include a 40-acre rail freight interchange capable of handling 16 trains a day – each stretching almost half a mile long –alongside 9m sq ft of warehousing.

‘Few developers have the funding, capability and expertise to deliver a project of this scale and complexity’

Maritime Group has already been signed to develop, lease and operate the interchange which, at full capacity, could remove more than 83 million HGV miles from the UK road network – saving an estimated 70,120 tonnes of CO2 each year.

Tritax has referred to the project as a “once in a generation opportunity to deliver a major infrastructure project, which has rail freight, sustainability and economic growth at its core,” supporting around 8,000 jobs.

Managing director Andrew Dickman: “Few developers have the funding, capability and expertise to deliver a project of this scale and complexity. We are fully committed to the project in the knowledge of the major economic and social benefits it will bring to the country’s future economic prosperity, and its impact on growth in the wider UK economy.

“We have worked diligently to design a project which will improve connectivity, create investment, alleviate road congestion and create a sustainable development which will benefit Leicestershire.

“It’s important to stress that, firstly, there will be no compulsory purchase of houses, and we are providing funding to improve facilities at Burbage Common.

“Our proposals, which are subject to detailed design, have been independently road safety audited and found to be compliant.

“We would like to thank all statutory bodies for their continued contribution to the DCO process. We look forward to co-operating with these bodies in the near future on this fundamental project of local, regional and national importance.

“We are hopeful that the Secretary of State will recognise the benefits of HNRFI and grant consent for the development.”

The planned Hinckley National Rail Freight Interchange

Site plans show attractiveness of Ashfield

Multi-million-pound plans by an aluminium manufacturer to build a new site in Ashfield show how attractive the area is for investment, according to the leader of the local council.

Hundreds of jobs have been secured and hundreds more will be created after Ashfield District Council approved plans for a 350,000 sq ft building for Garnalex, near Junction 27 of the M1, in Mansfield Road, Annesley.

The business is relocating from Nottinghamshire, bringing 300 local jobs and plans to create hundreds more.

Phase one will see the UK based aluminium windows and doors business – which produces thermally efficient, low carbon alternatives to imported products – move from its current home near Belper.

The new site should be completed in the next 18-24 months and will provide the firm with room to expand under a second, future phase.

Ashfield District Council leader Cllr Jason Zadrozny said: “This is a significant development coming to Ashfield and illustrates just how attractive the district is to the business community.

“In the past five years we have approved planning applications which equate to more than 7,000 potential jobs in Ashfield.

“That is proof we are now a location and destination of choice for employers.

“This development is a real boon for our rural communities in Annesley, Selston, Jacksdale and Underwood, who will see new jobs on their doorstep.”

Derby arena venue moves a step closer

Construction work has been completed on the £45.8m Becketwell Live arena in Derby, ahead of its anticipated opening later this spring.

Derbyshire-based construction firm Bowmer + Kirkland completed the final stages of construction on behalf of developers St James Securities, and it has now been handed over to owners Derby City Council and operators Legends and ASM Global.

The 3,500-capacity venue is expected to attract an additional 250,000 visitors to Derby each year and add £10m a year to the local economy. Acts already lined up include comedian John Bishop, Wet Wet Wet and a show by actress Miriam Margolyes.

The new venue is on the site of the old Pink Coconut nightclub in Colyear Street, and has been build with a flexible combination of floor seating, and will host events ranging

‘This is yet another exciting milestone as we move closer to opening the doors’

from concerts to stand-up comedy, exhibitions and business events.

The broader Becketwell regeneration scheme is being delivered by Leeds-based property developers St James Securities. In February 2022, Peveril Securities, the development arm of the Bowmer + Kirkland Group, agreed to become funding and development partners for future phases.

Becketwell Live forms the second phase of the £200m scheme, following phase one which includes The Condor, the city’s first purpose-built build-to-rent scheme – owned and operated by Grainger – and a new public green space called Springwell Square.

Gus Kedzior, North Midlands &

Yorkshire regional director for Bowmer + Kirkland, said: We are incredibly proud to have been appointed to build this amazing landmark venue in Derby.

“Our site team has done a great job in ensuring this project has been handed over on time, within budget, and we are thrilled with the final outcome.”

Becketwell Live general manager Marcus Sheehan said: “This is yet another exciting milestone as we move closer to opening the doors of Becketwell Live.

“Thanks to the brilliant teams who have done an incredible job in bringing this venue to life, ready to bring the very best in live entertainment to the heart of Derby.”

Council leader Cllr Nadine Peatfield called it a “huge leap forward” in the Becketwell changes and in transforming Derby into a vibrant city centre that prioritises and celebrates culture.

Move will offer scope to expand

Legal services specialist Knights is planning to relocate its Leicester office to Colton Square.

The firm is set to move into the new office, with capacity for around 100 people, this December.

Knights moved into Leicester in 2018 when it acquired Spearing Waite, based in Pocklingtons Walk.

The business has grown significantly in recent years and now has more than 450 professionals working across the Midlands with offices in Birmingham, Leicester, Lincoln, Nottingham and Stoke as part of a national team of 1,200 professionals in 23 locations.

Management said the Leicester move will provide Knights with a solid platform for further growth.

Client services director Jessica Neyt said: “This new location

makes us more accessible and brings our people closer to clients in the heart of the city.

“It marks our continuous investment in our people as we grow across Leicester and the

Midlands and provides us with a strong base from which to deliver our comprehensive range of business and private wealth services as we continue to attract the best and most ambitious professionals.”

Cllr Jason Zadrozny

Colton Square

Campus to grow agri-tech centre

SMB College Group’s Brooksby campus is getting £18m from the Department for Education for changes including a new agri-tech centre.

Building work will start in the next few weeks, with the agri-tech centre featuring virtual learning areas labs and robotics areas, to help students in subjects such as agriculture and farming, countryside and environmental management, land-based engineering, equine studies and horticulture.

The work coincides with a new

‘We have a rich heritage of delivering agricultural training for many generations’

T-Level programme in agriculture, land management and production launching on the campus, which is near Melton, this September. College principal and chief executive Dawn Whitemore said:

“This is a truly transformational project for our Brooksby Campus, and we are incredibly pleased to

announce the beginning of construction works for our brand new agri-tech centre.

“We have a rich heritage of delivering agricultural training for many generations and are very proud of our commitment to offering innovative, forwardthinking qualifications and facilities to train the workforce of the future.

“The support that college has received so far from the teams at the Department for Education and Gleeds has been exceptional, along with Tilbury Douglas who have secured the contract.”

SMB College Group’s 850-acre Brooksby campus is one of 36 specialist LANDEX land-based colleges in the country.

Its established facilities include a working commercial arable and livestock farm with its own flock of sheep, cows and hundreds of acres of arable land.

There are also glasshouses and formal gardens, workshops, an equestrian centre equipped with indoor and outdoor riding facilities, an aqua treadmill, mechanical horse, solarium and weigh bridge.

SMB College Group’s Brooksby campus

Acquisition adds up for Derby business advisers

Duncan & Toplis has acquired Derby accountants

Underwood Green in a deal that sees it expand into a new location.

The acquisition, which coincides with Duncan & Toplis’s 100-year anniversary, comes during its strongest period of growth. It now has offices covering Lincolnshire, Leicestershire, Nottinghamshire, London and now Derbyshire.

Underwood Green will rebrand under the new ownership, with all team members including directors Gary Underwood and Richard Green remaining in their roles, and staying at their existing premises at Pride Park in Derby.

‘We’ll be able to offer a wider range of services and even greater support’

Duncan & Toplis chief executive Damon Brain said: “We’ve supported clients in Derby and Derbyshire for many years but, with the acquisition of Underwood Green, we’ll be welcoming a fantastic new team who are based in the city.

“Gary, Richard and the Underwood Green team have a terrific reputation in the area and we’re two very like-minded businesses. I’m looking forward to

welcoming all team members to Duncan & Toplis and providing them with great career opportunities, at the same time as taking great care of clients they love working with.”

Gary Underwood, director and co-founder of Underwood Green,

said: “Joining forces with Duncan & Toplis – one of the largest accounting and business advisers in the UK – is a great opportunity for us and our clients. Being a part of Duncan & Toplis, we’ll be able to offer a wider range of services and even greater support.”

Local tourism industry to celebrate excellence

Shining stars of the East Midlands tourism industry will be celebrated at a joint awards ceremony hosted by East Midlands mayor Claire Ward this spring.

Gladiators star tells kids to swap phones for fun

Gladiators star Zack George is visiting eight schools in Amber Valley to encourage pupils to swap screen time for exercise.

Zack – aka Steel from the BBC Saturday night show – launched his Zactiv workshops last year to encourage school children to put down their smartphones and turn off YouTube and adopt a more positive outlook on life. Move More Amber Valley has now enlisted him to boost activity among youngsters in the borough.

The real-life superman, from Sileby, Leicestershire, recently visited Woodbridge Junior School, in Alfreton, for a three-hour workshop. The initiative is receiving Public Health funding from Derbyshire County Council as part of a wider strategy to get people in Amber Valley moving more.

Zack said: “As someone who was obese as a six-year-old, I know the impact that poor physical health can have on a child’s mental health and confidence. I’m on a mission to use my platform to make sure that no child feels the way that I did.

“I see children enter with slumped shoulders and no confidence and leave with their heads held high and smiles on their faces.

“That’s why I’m doing this – to use my story and experience to make children feel like the heroes in their own lives.”

The winners of the Peak District, Derbyshire & Derby Tourism Awards and the Nottinghamshire Tourism Awards will be revealed during the double ceremony at the East Midlands Conference Centre in Nottingham on 20 March.

The region’s two Local Visitor Economy Partnerships – Visit Nottinghamshire and Visit Peak District, Derbyshire and Derby – are joining forces to deliver the awards ceremony in partnership for the first time, taking in everything from B&Bs and visitor attractions to hotels and campsites.

The ceremony is supported by the East Midlands Combined County Authority which is helping promote a sector estimated to contribute £5.25bn to the East Midlands economy. Gold winners will have the opportunity to progress onto the national VisitEngland Awards for Excellence 2025.

Mayor of the East Midlands Claire Ward said: “One of my priorities is to boost tourism and celebrate our region’s heritage, vibrancy, culture and natural beauty through my Visit East Midlands campaign.

“This joint awards ceremony is a fantastic opportunity to celebrate excellence in all aspects of tourism across Derbyshire and Nottinghamshire, and I’m delighted to host and support these awards.”

Staff and pupils from Woodbridge Junior School with Gladiators star Zack

L-R: Richard Green, Damon Brain and Gary Underwood

Stanage Edge in the Peak District

Restaurant will be community hub

Work has started on turning a former restaurant in Derby’s Cathedral Quarter into new headquarters and a community hub for young people and their families affected by child exploitation.

Derbyshire’s specialist child exploitation charity Safe and Sound has appointed familyowned Davlyn Construction to complete the refurbishment of the former Thai Dusit restaurant in Bold Lane.

The construction project, which is due to be completed around Easter, will include a ground floor community hub where young people and families can engage with an expanded range of support services and activities to help them re-build their lives.

The other two floors will include space for one-to-one and group support, meetings and workshops as well as office accommodation for Safe and Sound’s team and volunteers who are based there. There will also be provision for other local charities to use space.

The project has been made possible by funding from the Department of Levelling Up, Housing and Communities’ Community Ownership Fund.

The perfect way to retyre!

ANottinghamshire firm has used hundreds of recycled tyres as building foundations to help decarbonise an army cadet training centre.

Viridis Building Services, based in Collingham, near Newark, was approached by the Ministry of Defence to create a carbon-neutral training centre at its rebuilt training base in Beckingham, Lincolnshire.

The firm, one of the first net zero companies in the UK, looked not only at future sustainability but also at how the Army could save money and even generate a potential income.

Viridis realised that the MOD

Woodborough Hall

Historic hall shortlisted in local tourism awards

‘Our

task was to achieve net zero without breaking the bank’

disposed of thousands of tyres each year from its huge fleet of vehicles, so set about incorporating old tyres into rebuilding the 1940s cadet training centre.

A method was arrived at to create pillars out of recycled tyres as the base for the foundations of five accommodation buildings and a large mess hall. Each ‘pillar’ is infilled with recycled crushed aggregate.

The idea, which has never been

used in a commercial environment in the UK before, has reduced concrete usage on the site by around 85%.

Managing director Lee Marshall said: “Our task was to achieve net zero without breaking the bank and meanwhile impacting as little as possible on the environment.

“Using recycled tyres as foundations instead of tonnes of concrete is one solution, though it was significant that the MOD has a steady source of supply of old tyres.”

Lee estimated that the British Army saved more than £80,000 using recycled tyres instead of concrete.

Safety expert calls for action over potholes

A Leicestershire-based tyre safety expert is demanding more action to fix the dangers of potholes on Britain’s increasingly treacherous roads.

Woodborough Hall has been named as a finalist in four categories at the 2024/2025 Nottinghamshire Tourism Awards.

The Grade II-star Listed building, which is owned and operated by Kidd Hospitality, can trace its origins back to the seventh century, with links to William the Conqueror, Mansfield Parkyns and Sir George Mansfield Smith-Cummings, the first head of MI6.

The awards take place on 20 March 2025 at the East Midlands Conference Centre, and the hotel is

England and Wales.

up for new tourism business, A Taste of Nottingham, B&B and guest house of the year and team of the year.

Director and general manager Jenny Dickie said: “We really appreciate all the wonderful reviews we have received about the high standards of service and food and these nominations have made all the hard work worthwhile.”

The awards are organised by Visit Nottinghamshire and celebrate excellence across Nottingham and Nottinghamshire’s tourism, leisure, culture, and hospitality sectors.

Peter Simson (pictured), director at Tyron Runflat, said: “For long enough we have seen our roads plagued with dangerous potholes, creating treacherous road conditions for all road users.

“It has become such an issue nationally and locally, that, for example, Leicestershire County Council has to fix around 7,300 potholes each year.

“It is estimated that there are at least one million potholes on UK roads which is believed to be, on average, six potholes per mile on council-controlled roads in

“These stats help to show the vital need for action to fix our roads across the UK. For too long, the dangers of potholes haven’t been taken seriously enough so news of the Government’s investment plans is welcome.

“The £372m investment from the Government for councils in the East and West Midlands is a step in the right direction, but we fear it could be too little too late.

“It is vital that the ongoing challenges and dangers of potholes aren’t ignored. As the cost to consumers and insurance companies continues to rise, we feel it is time for major steps forward to fix our roads and keep road users safe.”

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Telephone: 07703 830192

Connecting fashion talent with industry

BBC East Midlands Today presenter Anne Davies (pictured) founded Fashanne in 2016 to support third and final year students studying fashion and textiles at universities across the Midlands. Here she talks about the organisation’s 2025 awards and the opportunities available through them. (Photos by Rachael Connerton Photography)

What is powerful, glamorous, innovative and exciting? What unashamedly tackles themes and concepts such as mental health, sexuality, sustainability and inclusion?

The answer is an evening like no other that affects young lives in one of the most positive ways possible.

The 2025 Fashanne – Fashion Designers of the Future Awards are taking place this June, hosted by me and fashion entrepreneur, author, sustainability champion and TV personality Patrick Grant.

The awards connect young talent with industry and are based on the East Midlands’ great history in textiles, lace, knitwear, shoe making, silk and fashion – showcasing not only our great region but also the wealth of talent within it.

Students, selected by their universities, are given the opportunity to compete and showcase their work at one of the most glittering nights in the East Midlands calendar.

With internships from some of our bestknown fashion companies for the winners, it’s a great opportunity for the region’s most talented young designers.

Fashanne was set up to connect the next generation of talent to the industries that need them – and as the only programme of its kind outside London, it also helps in the retention of skills.

This great region needs to harvest the talents being nurtured in our universities and keep them close. Fashanne is a way of helping do that as the category sponsors present internships to the winners they have selected.

But it's not just one night – now a year-long programme for students, Fashanne also offers workshops and talks with some of the leading figures in the fashion industry.

What better way can there be to find out about what it takes to succeed than to hear from those at the top of their game in Fashanne’s supporting companies like Paul Smith, Next, Pentland Brands, ITL – Intelligent Labelling Solutions – to name but a few.

And for the companies themselves, being a part of the judging process helps them find the employees of the future to ensure their continuing success.

With an exciting pictorial display on show in East Midlands Airport, Fashanne also has the potential to connect with some of the 4.2 million-plus people travelling through the airport each year.

Holidaymakers and business people alike get the chance to view the innovative and exciting designs being created in our universities. It makes their journeys more enjoyable and serves as a platform to showcase the region’s universities, businesses, sponsors and strength in fashion and textile design – past and present.

Fashanne also champions diversity and inclusion on the catwalk. In association with the double gold Paralympian Richard Whitehead and the model and inspirational speaker Sian Green Lord, our models always include amputees as the awards break down barriers to make sure everyone is included.

In 2023 Fashanne took Earth as its theme with a zero-waste approach – using only natural printing methods, plant-based canapes, a

foraged photo wall and sustainable add-ons wherever possible.

But the greatest achievement was on the catwalk as the students addressed some of fashion’s biggest challenges around material sourcing, water consumption, climate change and fast fashion.

‘The place to be on 26 June this year will be Nottingham’s finest medieval building, the beautiful St Mary’s Church that will find itself catapulted into the future with the cutting-edge designs of this year's finalists’

Their innovative designs and practices blew the audience away showing what talent we have on our doorsteps.

This year's Fashanne aims to explore and showcase another world issue – although what that will be is top secret at the moment.

Proving that design talent and work opportunities are thriving outside the M25, and

most particularly in the Midlands, Fashanne is only possible thanks to the commitment and support of the sponsors – companies such as Next, Pentland Brands, Paul Smith’s Foundation, ITLIntelligent Labelling Solutions, the ASBCI, Style 3D, Measoms, Office 12 and Stoll GB alongside supporters including Daniel Hanson, East Midlands Airport, Print4 and Sophie’s Flower Company.

Sponsors are able to take advantage of Fashanne's media profile as well as the obvious opportunities to give back and support CSR/ ESG goals, build brand engagement, take part in an unforgettable corporate event and pave the way for those starting out in a career to follow in the footsteps of previous winners.

Many of them have, thanks to Fashanne, found work in places such as Next, Hugo Boss, Ted Baker, Pentland Brands, Boden, All Saints, Fit Flop, Alexander McQueen and more.

So, the place to be on 26 June this year will be Nottingham’s finest medieval building, the beautiful St Mary’s Church, that will find itself catapulted into the future with the cutting-edge designs of this year's finalists. Around 300 guests will experience a quite unforgettable evening.

In the words of Katie Greenyer, creative director of Pentland Brands: “The Fashanne Awards are brilliant. I don’t think people know how amazing they are!”

For tickets sponsorship information contact Laura@annedaviestv.co.uk

Rebrand to raise awareness of community foundation

Nottinghamshire Community Foundation has been renamed Forever Notts to help it raise brand awareness and encourage more local business support.

The foundation helps donations stay in the local area rather than going to national organisations –and is seen as crucial for Nottinghamshire, which is reported to have fewer donations per person compared to areas such as London.

‘Forever Notts is set to play a vital role in ensuring that local donations fuel the causes that matter most’

Founded in 1997 as the Sherwood Coalfield Foundation, it has distributed £30m in grants and helps 3,000 community groups across Nottinghamshire.

Chief executive Nina Dauban said: “As Nottinghamshire’s community spirit continues to flourish, Forever Notts is set to play a vital role in ensuring that local

Contract win for technology firm

An Ashbourne-based provider of audio-visual workplace technology has won a major new contract.

TecInteractive, which creates tailored workspaces that enhance productivity and communication, has been selected by global construction consultancy Gleeds as exclusive audiovisual contractor for the refurbishment of its Londonbased global headquarters.

The project will see TecInteractive fit out 20 MS Teams workspaces, including a large multi-purpose lower ground floor event space for the 3,000-employee organisation.

Commercial director Tom Bamford said: “This contract marks a major milestone for us at TecInteractive, and we’re thrilled to have been chosen over several strong competitors.

“It is testament to the expertise of our team.”

donations fuel the causes that matter most to the people of this great county.”

The unveiling was celebrated at Nottingham’s Stonebridge City Farm – which has around 400 volunteers – with a £5,000 grant.

Stonebridge chief executive Peter Armitage said: “Funding is

hard to come by for charities in the current climate, and we’re incredibly thankful for the grant from Forever Notts.”

In the past year Forever Notts awarded 239 grants worth £570,927, benefiting 230,700 people. The average grant size was £2,300.

An insight into decision making

A new report offers an insight into how buyers are making critical purchasing decisions for their businesses.

The B2B Buyers Decision Report 2025, launched at the Love Business EXPO 2025 by content marketing consultancy LikeMind Media, includes the latest research and analysis on what B2B buyers really need their suppliers to be talking to them about.

More than 500 B2B buyers from across Europe, North America and India were surveyed, and LikeMind Media has spent months analysing the responses.

Key findings include:

• 89% of respondents use supplier websites as a key research tool

• Value demonstration and requirement alignment outrank price in decision importance

• Many suppliers overemphasise aspects such as social media presence and company culture

• Collaborative decisionmaking is important when B2B purchases are considered, even among primary decision-makers.

Splendid line-up for festival

Bloc Party, Kaiser Chiefs, Travis and Nottingham-born Jake Bugg will headline this year’s Splendour Festival, along with Clean Bandit, Sophie Ellis-Bextor, Natasha Bedingfield, Echo & The Bunnymen, The Fratellis and more.

Spanning six stages across the deer park of Nottingham’s historic Wollaton Hall, the Nottingham weekender will return from 19-20 July 2025 after a year out.

George Akins, of hosts DHP Family, said: “Splendour has become a standout weekend for families and seasoned gig-goers alike and an important event for the cultural and economic value it brings to the region.

“We’re very pleased to finally be back with another brilliant line-up, now spread across two days and six distinct stages, offering great value to everyone coming to enjoy the weekend with us.”

The return of Splendour is set to provide a welcome boost to the local economy as it attracts tens of thousands of visitors to the city over the weekend.

This year, organisers are building on the growing appeal of weekend

festival getaways with the introduction of Nottingham Venues as accommodation partner. Dedicated festival coaches will also be running from major cities and towns across the Midlands.

Cllr Sam Lux, executive member for carbon reduction, leisure and culture at Nottingham City Council,

said: “The festival not only showcases Nottingham’s vibrant music scene but brings significant economic benefits by supporting local businesses. Splendour also fosters a real sense of community spirit, uniting people from all walks of life to celebrate music, art, and the unique character of Nottingham.”

The Splendour Festival takes place at Nottingham’s historic Wollaton Hall

Forever Notts CEO Nina Dauban (centre) presents the cheque for Stonebridge City Farm to chief executive Peter Armitage, with the help of Robina Hood

New owners expand hotel offering

Ahistoric Derbyshire hotel and restaurant has been acquired by independent hospitality business Longbow Venues.

Nestled on the edge of the Peak District National Park, The Peacock at Rowsley has been providing hospitality for more than 400 years. It was built as a manor house in 1652 and is now a luxury hotel offering fine dining.

‘I am very proud of what the Peacock and all my wonderful team have achieved’

It had been part of Rutland Hotels, which is owned by Lord Edward Manners, and the new owners plan to maintain its four silver AA stars and three AA rosettes.

The hotel has 15 bedrooms, a cosy bar serving drinks and locally inspired dishes, and a riverfront garden created by internationally renowned garden designer Arne Maynard.

All the staff are staying on, ensuring the same team continues to deliver the high standards of service and warm hospitality that

local suppliers and continuing to use produce from the Haddon Estate.

Longbow Venues managing director Rob Hattersley said: “The Peacock at Rowsley holds a special place in my heart, my family’s, and the wider community.

“While we are committed to maintaining the hotel’s exceptional standards of food and service, we want to open our doors even wider – whether it’s for a coffee, a relaxed drink, or an unforgettable dining experience.”

guests have come to expect.

Lord Edward Manners, who lives in Haddon Hall in the Peak District, said: “Having owned The Peacock at Rowsley for the last 22 years, I am delighted to now pass it on to Rob Hattersley and the team at Longbow Venues – a superb local company who are doing a brilliant job with all their venues nearby.

“I am very proud of what the Peacock and all my wonderful team

have achieved over the years, and am very excited to watch it flourish with Longbow. I know it is in a safe pair of hands. I wish Longbow and the Peacock the very best of luck and a prosperous future."

Planned future enhancements to the hotel include: reintroducing Sunday lunches and afternoon teas; refreshing the interiors while preserving the building’s historic charm, and strengthening ties with

HUUB unveils ultimate team up

The founder of Derby performance sportswear firm HUUB has described a deal to supply the Great Britain AgeGroup Triathlon Team as the “pinnacle for our company”.

Dean Jackson MBE said the groundbreaking partnership between HUUB and British Triathlon will put its Team GB Age Group athletes on an equal footing with the best in the sport, with access to the fastest tri-suits and wetsuits on offer.

The Age Group team is open to the best triathletes from any of the four home nations who compete for fun rather than on a professional basis, giving them the chance to represent their country on the world stage.

There are currently 3,500 athletes available for selection for Team GB, all competing in a wide range of age categories, moving upwards in five-year increments from 16 up to 80-plus.

Triathlon is one of the few sports where amateurs get to race alongside professionals and competition is fierce, with athletes investing thousands of pounds in equipment.

HUUB’s kit is already worn by professional Team

GB triathletes including Alex Yee and Georgia TaylorBrown.

Dean said: “This partnership is the pinnacle for our company because of the strength of the Team GB Age group team and the fact they are the lifeblood of the sport in this country.

“We’re delighted to be able to supply them with the fastest suits so that they need never line up against somebody who can go faster through the swim bike and run legs without trying harder.”

Among the best-known Team GB Age Group competitors are BBC news TV presenter Louise Minchin, who represented her country in her late-40s, and Peggy Crome, an 80-year-old grandmother from Devon, who has been competing in triathlons for 38 years and has won 17 events.

Joining The Peacock as general manager is Róbert Ciulinaru, who has worked in prestigious establishments, including Alchemilla – a Michelin-starred restaurant in Nottingham – and Grantley Hall, a five-star luxury country house hotel in Yorkshire, which has a Michelin-starred restaurant.

The freehold of The Peacock at Rowsley is being acquired by Coverland UK, which will lease the property to Longbow Venues.

Longbow has a strong working relationship with Coverland, which owns three of its other properties.

Following a refurbishment, it will reopen this month (March).

Marketing expert to give talk on diversity

Tania Gerard (pictured), an accessible marketing consultant and neurodiversity trainer based in Leicester, will take the stage at TEDxTamworth on March 26 to deliver a talk on ‘Accessible Marketing: Building Bridges, Not Barriers’.

Tania, who runs, Tania Gerard Digital UK, is at the forefront of making marketing more inclusive, ensuring that businesses of all sizes can reach diverse audiences –without leaving anyone behind.

She helps companies integrate accessibility into their marketing strategies, benefiting both their brand and bottom line.

She said: “The digital world is often built with a "one-size-fits-all" approach, but the reality is that millions of potential customers face barriers when engaging with marketing content.

“From websites that are difficult to navigate for people with disabilities to social media campaigns that overlook neurodivergent audiences, businesses are missing out on both opportunities and revenue.”

Rob Hattersley (left) and Lord Edward Manners at The Peacock at Rowsley

Dean Jackson

Credit:

Tom Hodgson Photography

NEW MEMBERS

In January the Chamber welcomed 35 new members:

• A+G Architects

• Aims Accountants for Business - Dhruv Pandya

• Arc Communictions

• At One With Nature

• Bboss Ltd

• Best Western Appleby Park

• Best Western Plus Nottingham City Centre

• Cathy Garrick Celebrant

• Celebrate Our SimilaritiesCOS

• Erewash Sound

• Global Trade Department

• Goldendrops Bee Farm

• Good Health TCM

• Guidance Automation

• Herd Energy

• IMA Architects

• Lancaster Armoury

• LLR Mind

• Malcolm Budd Consultancy Services

• Nottinghamshire Mind

• Novus Marketing AI

• NSPCC Registered Charity

• Paulina Palka Leadership Development

• ProjectFireDoors

• RAF Association

• Revicon Solutions

• Roemer Barnes Consultancy

• Sempai

• Sporting Communities CIC

• Techno PPR Plastic Pipe

• The Bridge (East Midlands)

• The National Tramway Museum

• West Special Fasteners

• Yew Lodge Hotel

A Wilko-me conversion

Sutton-in-Ashfield’s former Wilko store is being turned into a construction training centre for young people, adult learners and apprentices.

Ashfield District Council and West Nottinghamshire College are using a share of £4m in Towns Fund money to convert the building into a teaching facility giving opportunities for students to train or upskill.

The council has bought the building at 1-5 Outram Street and will lease it to the college.

It will be used to offer trade skills and qualifications in things such as plumbing and electrical installation, along with “green skills” courses in areas including ground source and air source heat pump, photovoltaics,

Developer wants to expand logistics park

and electric vehicle charging and wiring.

It is hoped the campus will be open from September 2025, accommodating around 400 students.

‘I am delighted this landmark agreement has now been secured’

Andrew Cropley, principal and chief executive of West Nottinghamshire College, said: “I am delighted this landmark agreement has now been secured.

“Our new construction centre will create exciting opportunities for local people across a range of

rewarding and well-paid careers, and support businesses in meeting their skills needs.

“It will bring hundreds of students into Sutton town centre every day, bringing economic benefits to high street businesses and breathing new life into this large-scale, unused building.”

The funding will also contribute towards the cost of substantial internal alterations to the college’s existing Station Park facility, off Lowmoor Road, Kirkby-in-Ashfield, to bring more curriculum areas under one roof.

That will allow the college’s engineering centre in Oddicroft Lane, Sutton-in-Ashfield, to become the UK’s first Gene Haas Centre for Advanced Manufacturing.

Plans have been submitted to expand a logistics park, near junction 11 of the M42, in north west Leicestershire.

Mercia Park (pictured) already employs more than 2,500 people and is the home of JLR’s Global Logistics Centre, and a flagship facility for global transport and logistics company DSV.

Developer IM Properties said, if approved, expansion could create between 1,000 and 1,700 jobs and deliver an estimated £2.8m a year

in business rates.

Matthew Fox, planning director at IM Properties, said: “Mercia Park has demonstrated that it is a leading location for business with excellent transport links and net zero-ready buildings all within a high-quality landscaped setting.

“Expansion of this important economic asset would capitalise on the profile and success of the site and provide much-needed new business space to help drive inward investment in Leicestershire.”

Nottingham to host entrepreneur event

Investors, equity funders and finance programme providers will join business leaders and politicians at the Momentum Valley entrepreneurs event taking place at East Midlands Conference Centre, Nottingham, on 9 April.

The investors show, being organised by Holland Alexander, will provide businesses with access to support and networks that could help them increase productivity, scale-up, invest in product development and create jobs.

The one-day national event, which puts a spotlight on the East Midlands, is aimed at founders, chief executives, managing directors, CFOs, CMOs and senior leaders in businesses from young brands and those seeking their first funding round to those looking for fresh equity to accelerate growth.

East Midlands Combined County Authority has backed the initiative as a headline partner. Claire Ward, mayor for the East Midlands, said: "Momentum Valley is a brilliant example of the energy and ambition we have here in our region.

“We’re working closely with local businesses, including through our new business advisory board, to make sure they have the tools, advice, and opportunities they need to thrive. The East Midlands is the perfect place to start or grow a business, and events like this help connect our fantastic entrepreneurs with the support to achieve their goals.”

For details visit: momentumvalley.com/event-ticket

Pictured outside the former Sutton-inAshfield Wilko are (from left) college principal and chief executive Andrew Cropley, chair of governors Kate Truscott, Cllr Samantha Deakin and Cllr Vicki Heslop

Government must partner with business

By Dr Nik Kotecha OBE (pictured), an internationally-renowned businessman, scientist, influencer and serial entrepreneur. His global business portfolio includes investments from start-ups to patient capital, with retained interests in health, life sciences and high innovation, and IP rich businesses.

As the Government wrestles with market backlash and deep business concern from early economic decisions, the layers of economic complexity are building.

The Independent reported in January on the Government watchdog’s own assessment of the cost of Brexit – and their estimates show that “the economy will take a 15% hit to trade in the long-term”.

In 2023 Bloomberg Economics valued the impact at £100bn in lost output each year –which must be read alongside the now overreported and repetitively stated “black hole” in Government finances, being used to rationalise decisions which are already proving damaging. Brexit’s constraint on international trade in many sectors brought barriers we’re still having to unpack and navigate. In pharmaceuticals for instance, we’re left with a skewed playing field between the UK and Europe with one-sided regulation advantages, formal market entry barriers and new costs now stacked in, which tumble margins and reduce competitiveness.

‘Brexit’s constraint on international trade in many sectors brought barriers we’re still having to unpack’

The life sciences and science tech sectors more widely continue to see out migration of companies and IP – to jurisdictions where development support, support to scale and growth acceleration can be found – the US being one.

The publication of findings from the Governments Science and Technology Committee Inquiry into engineering biology – an area of excellence and remarkable potential for the UK –found that incentives are needed to anchor biotech firms here while re-commitments must be made on Government R&D investment. Support is critical to address a growing vacuum in skills and for access to capital.

There is urgent action needed and the answers are known. But will positive steps now

follow? Or will we continue to jeopardise, longterm, the true potential of the UK economy by ignoring what businesses truly need?

While the Chancellor has highlighted “there are no easy routes” to growth, I would encourage policy-makers to focus on longstanding economic barriers from skills gaps, to connectivity challenges, disparity in the public investment landscape and more – and start to dismantle those at pace.

I firmly believe that the UK as a science superpower is within reach – our science innovation, translation and manufacturing is second to none – but the Government needs to come to the table quickly, and play its promised role as a positive and invested partner to business.

Empowering Your Business with Tailored Software Solutions

In today’s business landscape, many organisations assume that off-the-shelf software is the safest and most cost-effective option. But as businesses grow, they often find themselves battling inefficiencies, disjointed systems, and operational bottlenecks. The reality is that custom software doesn’t have to be expensive or complicated. In fact, modular and scalable solutions allow businesses to invest in only what they need—making tailored software an adaptable and cost-effective alternative.

Modular software: adaptable and cost-effective

The common misconception is that custom software comes with high costs and lengthy development cycles. However, modular software changes this narrative. Businesses can implement essential features first and expand functionality as requirements evolve.

For instance, a company might start with a simple system for tracking resources, later integrating predictive analytics, dynamic pricing, or compliance tracking. This incremental approach keeps upfront costs low while delivering immediate value.

Adopting modular, scalable software enables businesses to reduce IT costs by optimising resources and streamlining updates. A study by Flexera found that effective Software Asset Management strategies can cut software costs by up to 30%." (Flexera)

Best practice tip: Work with your software provider to identify a scalable, modular strategy that fits your current and future needs without overcommitting on costs.

Seamless workflows for complex projects

Businesses managing large-scale projects often experience delays due to communication gaps or inefficient processes. Custom software streamlines workflows by automating repetitive tasks such as compliance tracking, resource scheduling, and bid management.

For example, automating bid evaluations and integrating them with project management tools can save valuable time while ensuring transparency. Similarly, consolidating workflows across teams ensures everyone operates from the same, real-time data—reducing errors and unnecessary delays. Much like a relay race where smooth handovers are crucial to success, well-integrated workflows ensure that projects progress seamlessly, reducing inefficiencies and keeping operations on track.

Custom workflows are not just for large enterprises; tailored solutions can fit various budgets and team sizes. In the UK construction industry, project delays remain a persistent challenge. According to a 2022 survey by Cornerstone Projects, 91% of construction professionals reported experiencing project delays, while 28% stated that more than half of their projects had been delayed. These setbacks often lead to increased costs and extended delivery times. Implementing customised workflows can improve communication, streamline project management, and reduce unnecessary delays. (Cornerstone Projects)

Best practice tip: Start small by automating specific processes, then expand as you see the benefits. Workflow improvements often pay for themselves by reducing labour hours and accelerating project timelines.

Customer portals: transparency made simple

Today’s customers expect seamless, tech-enabled interactions. A welldesigned customer portal provides a centralised platform for managing bookings, tracking orders, or accessing personalised services—all with realtime updates.

Imagine empowering your customers with self-service tools while reducing the burden on your internal teams. Whether it’s order tracking or secure document access, customer portals enhance satisfaction, build trust, and improve operational efficiency.

Tailored customer portals offer cost-effective solutions and integrate seamlessly with existing systems, ensuring customers' most frequent needs are met. According to Salesforce's State of the Connected Customer report, 88% of customers say the experience a company provides is as important as its products or services, while 78% expect consistent interactions across departments." (Salesforce)

Best practice tip: Prioritise simplicity in your portal design—focus on features that directly enhance the customer experience while reducing manual intervention for your team.

Scalable ERP systems: one solution for growth

Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) systems unify operations across departments, enabling businesses to streamline processes, improve decisionmaking, and scale efficiently. When enhanced with vendor scoring and additional features, ERP systems provide a comprehensive view of both operations and supplier performance.

Modern ERP systems are highly scalable, allowing businesses to tailor their setup without a full system overhaul. Instead, companies can add features incrementally, keeping costs manageable while ensuring long-term flexibility. Much like a well-conducted orchestra where each instrument plays its part to create harmony, an ERP system ensures that every department functions in sync—delivering seamless efficiency and precision.

Implementing an Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) system can significantly enhance organisational performance. Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) systems enhance operational efficiency and streamline processes. According to The Manufacturer, UK businesses implementing ERP systems report increased productivity and improved supply chain visibility (The Manufacturer). The report highlights that many respondents experienced positive outcomes post-implementation, underscoring the value of ERP solutions in streamlining operations and facilitating informed decisionmaking.

Best practice tip: Choose a modular ERP system that grows with your business. This ensures scalability without unnecessary expenses.

Seamless integration: bridging off-the-shelf tools with custom modules

Many businesses rely on off-the-shelf software for day-to-day operations. However, integrating these systems with bespoke modules creates a unified ecosystem that addresses unique challenges. Custom integrations allow legacy systems, cloud applications, and industry-specific tools to work together seamlessly improving efficiency and reducing manual data transfers.

Companies that integrate custom solutions with standard software experience higher operational efficiencies and fewer data silos. This approach preserves the reliability of off-the-shelf products while unlocking innovations that redefine customer and operational experiences.

Best practice tip: Identify critical integration points where custom modules can enhance your existing systems, eliminating redundancies and streamlining data flow.

Agile innovation: iterative development for continuous growth

The pace of business change means that the software you implement today might need tweaks—or even overhauls—tomorrow. Agile development methodologies support this need for constant evolution by promoting rapid prototyping, regular stakeholder feedback, and iterative improvements.

Custom software built using agile principles can quickly adapt to market changes and evolving business goals. Agile projects are more likely to meet their goals and remain aligned with user needs. With agile innovation, you’re not locked into a rigid system; instead, you continuously refine your tools to maintain a competitive advantage.

Best practice tip: Adopt short development cycles and incorporate regular reviews with end users and stakeholders. This iterative approach helps ensure that your software remains relevant and that each upgrade delivers immediate, practical benefits.

User-centric design: crafting digital experiences that stand out

While many off-the-shelf systems focus on broad functionality, custom software development puts user experience at the forefront. By designing interfaces and interactions tailored to your customers’ specific needs, you can create digital journeys that are both intuitive and engaging—turning routine transactions into memorable experiences. Custom design not only reinforces your brand identity but also builds lasting customer loyalty through personalised experiences.

Best practice tip: Invest in UX research and testing early in the development process. Engage with your customers through surveys, usability tests, and feedback loops to ensure your design choices resonate with their expectations and needs.

Futureproofing with adaptable solutions

In an unpredictable business environment, adaptability is key. Much like a chameleon seamlessly adjusting to its surroundings, businesses must evolve with changing markets, customer expectations, and emerging technologies. Custom software ensures organisations remain resilient by enabling realtime monitoring, automating compliance processes, and offering predictive insights.

Investing in adaptable technologies is crucial for long-term resilience. A report by TechMarketView highlights that UK businesses prioritising flexible and scalable software solutions can better respond to shifting market conditions and accelerate digital transformation." (TechMarketView)

Best practice tip: Regularly review software capabilities to ensure they align with growth plans and market changes. Futureproofing means building tools that evolve alongside your business.

Conclusion:

empowering your business through tailored innovation

While off-the-shelf software remains an excellent option for standard operational tasks, integrating it with custom-developed modules can unlock innovative business models, drive efficiency, and elevate customer experiences. These additional strategies—from seamless integration and datadriven insights to AI automation, agile innovation, and user-centric design— offer a roadmap to transformation that adapts as your business grows.

Let EEvolution help you build the tools your business needs to thrive.

Contact us today to explore tailored solutions designed for your success.

Email: info@eevolution.co.uk Tel: +44 (0) 844 818 2 818

Tim Mahoney, Director

APPOINTMENTS

THE LATEST CAREER UPDATES AS COLLEAGUES MOVE UP OR MOVE ON

Kez Moogin and Baz Keshwala of Repeat Digital

TWO NEW FACES FOR CREATIVE AGENCY

Marketing agency Repeat Digital has made two new hires.

Kez Moogin joins as creative marketing executive, bringing a fresh skillset to the Long Eatonbased agency with design and branding.

He will be responsible for driving new leads to the business through targeted marketing campaigns, while enhancing Repeat’s presence on social media.

Joining him is Baz Keshwala who take on the role of senior pay-perclick account manager. Baz has more than 10 years of experience in paid media, previously working both in-house and within agencies to create campaigns which boost online visibility and generate leads and sales for clients.

He said: “Joining the team offers an exciting opportunity to contribute my expertise to their already impressive growth.”

LATEST ROLES WILL ENABLE TEAM TO PACK A REAL PUNCH

Dhas strengthened its team with appointment of former Packaging News editor Philip Chadwick as senior consultant and the promotion of Hannah Woods to account manager.

Philip has extensive experience in B2B publishing, covering the packaging and print market as a journalist for more than 20 years.

He said: “The packaging sector is facing multiple challenges this year – from legislative reform to choppy market conditions. But this is a creative, inventive and innovative industry that can deal with almost anything it faces.

“I’m excited to be working with Nielsen McAllister’s packaging clients to help them grow their business and communicate their unique products and services.”

Nielsen McAllister delivers PR, social media and communications strategy to national and international businesses including Berry Global, BCMPA and Nulogy.

Hannah Woods has been with the agency for two-and-a-half years, since graduating from Nottingham Trent University with a degree in journalism.

She said: “I’m incredibly grateful for the opportunities I’ve had at Nielsen McAllister to build my skills and grow professionally.

“Stepping into the account manager role is an exciting next chapter, and I’m looking forward to continuing to contribute to the agency’s ongoing success alongside a great team.”

MD HAS DESIGNS ON THE

FUTURE OF ARCHITECTS

Ben Hall has been promoted to managing director at Leicestershirebased IMA Architects, after 18 years with the business.

He will lead the day-to-day operations at the specialist in industrial and commercial architecture, while continuing to run client projects across the UK and oversee.

Other changes within the 20-strong team have seen Joe Travers promoted to director and Jack Mellor promoted to associate director.

The pair will continue to be responsible for delivering projects for clients, managing client relationships and supporting business development.

Ian McCann continues in his role as a director.

IMA has also appointed Alanah Miles as an architectural technologist and Jeremiah Olatiilu as a Part 2 architectural assistant.

Ben Hall said: “Since joining in 2007, I have worked in all elements of the business from being a junior to now being MD.

“To take the helm to help IMA navigate its next chapter is an exciting opportunity for me and the business and something I am immensely proud of.”

THREE DIRECTORS FOR GEDA

Construction and civil engineering company GEDA has appointed three new directors.

Seamus Donaghy, who has more than 25 years’ experience in the water industry, including 19 with GEDA, has been made civil engineering director.

New construction director (GB) Colm McVeigh has more than 24 years’ construction experience, 15 of them contributing to GEDA’s UK expansion.

Chris Stinson, who has become SHEQ (safety, health, environment and quality) director, joined GEDA 22 years ago as a student.

The business, which has its England office in Kegworth, works on complex and sustainable construction and civil engineering projects, particularly in the water, commercial and residential sectors.

It covers the Midlands region as well as Ireland and Northern Ireland. The new directors join the board led by managing director Aaron Hughes alongside Damian Murray, Tania McCartan and Stuart McFeely. Changes to the board also include the retirement of civil engineering director John Coalter who has been with the business for 30 years.

Chris Stinson, Colm McVeigh and Seamus Donaghy, directors at GEDA

Hannah Woods, account manager at Nielsen McAllister

PKF PARTNER SET TO HEAD UP DEPARTMENT IN NOTTINGHAM

PKF Smith Cooper partner Dean Nelson has become head of business recovery and restructuring in the firm’s Nottingham office.

Dean has more than 25 years’ experience in business recovery and restructuring, and will work at both the firm’s Nottingham and Derby offices to help businesses in financial distress across the East Midlands.

Recent high-profile cases for the firm include the administration of Robinson Structures (which saw 68 jobs saved) and the rescue of Belper Leisure Centre.

Director Emily Oliver, who recently became a licensed insolvency practitioner, will continue to help run the Derby office, while manager Kieran Marshall, takes a more senior role in Nottingham.

Dean commented: “Following recent team changes, I knew that heading up our team in Nottingham and embracing a more united approach across our East Midlands offices would be crucial to ensure our clients continue to benefit from PKF’s first-class business recovery and restructuring services.”

SAFETY EXPERT IAN JOINS RAIL FIRM

Midlands rail maintenance firm MTMS has strengthened its commitment to keeping its engineers safe while working at depots across the country by appointing an experienced health and safety expert.

The company, based in Moira, Leicestershire, has appointed Ian Casswell as its new HSQE manager as part of a recruitment drive launched in the wake of the company having won a number of new key contracts.

HSQE – which stands for Health, Safety, Quality and Environment –plays a vital role in the rail industry, whose workers face hazards including moving trains, handling heavy equipment and working at height. Ian’s duties will include completing H&S audits, planning and managing HSEQ activities and carrying out training so that MTMS engineers are aware of the risks to

MTMS project support

Nik Merchant (left) collects his risk assessment certificate from HSQE manager Ian Casswell

GELDARDS ADDS SENIOR ASSOCIATE

Law firm Geldards has strengthened its private client team in the East Midlands with the appointment of senior associate Julie Cook.

Joining from Buckles Law, she has more than 20 years’ legal experience and is an accredited member of STEP (the Society of Trust and Estate Practitioners). She specialises in estate administration, wills, and legal power of attorney for individuals and business owners.

Chairman David Williams said: “We are delighted to welcome Julie to our acclaimed private client team in Nottingham.

“The team is widely recognised for its unique expertise dealing with high value and often complex estates, proudly serving many generations of the same families. Julie’s experience and skills perfectly complement our existing team, further enhancing the first-class legal service we provide to our clients.”

LAW GROUP APPOINTS CORPORATE PARTNER

themselves, their livelihoods and others when out on site.

Outside of work, he is passionate about restoring classic cars –

including one which featured on the cover of Jaguar World in a special edition celebrating the 20th anniversary of the X-Type.

LENS MAKER NAMES CHIEF EXECUTIVE

David Hancock has been appointed chief executive at Oscar-winning cinema lens maker Cooke, replacing Tim Pugh, who spent four years in the role.

The new CEO was previously a board member at premium e-bike components brand Enviolo, having led that company as its CEO through its sale to a private equity investor. Prior to that, he held leadership roles in the US and Europe across sales, marketing distribution and operations.

He said: “Cooke is an esteemed company and brand with a powerful legacy of enabling great story telling by cinematographers. Combined with the passion of

the team, the chance to grow Cooke’s products and services will be amazing for all of us at Cooke.” Lenses made by Cooke, based in north Leicester, have been used in the movie business for more than a century thanks to their quality and the distinctive "Cooke Look" which they create on film.

In 2013 it won the science and technology Oscar for the pivotal role it has played in creating some of the biggest movies of all time. Dating back to the 1890s, Cooke lenses were used on Ernest Shackleton’s 1914 Antarctic exploration and helped document Everest expeditions in the 1920s.

Dean Chauhan (pictured) has become a corporate partner in the Leicester offices of law group Shakespeare Martineau.

He has more than 12 years’ experience and joins the business following nine years with Big Four professional services firms KPMG Law and PwC Legal.

Most recently, he led KPMG’s Midlands legal business, where he helped develop the corporate reorganisation practice and supported the growth of its deals practice. He has experience advising businesses of all sizes, nationally and globally, and building key relationships with tax and accounting advisory experts. He has expertise in corporate deals and transactions, domestic and international business reorganisations and corporate governance.

He said: “Joining Shakespeare Martineau is the perfect next step for me and brings a new direction to my career, and it is also great to be back in Leicester, where I grew up and trained.”

L-R: Director Emily Oliver, manager Kieran Marshall and Dean Nelson, partner and head of business recovery and restructuring, at PKF Smith Cooper

A measure of blind faith is way to succeed

MEETING THE PEOPLE BEHIND THE REGION’S TOP BUSINESSES

Business Network speaks to Paul Cheetham and Lenny Reynolds, co-founders of Derby-based Blind Screen. The made-to-measure blind manufacturer is one of the region’s major success stories of recent years.

On a trading estate in Derby – not far from the city’s Pride Park football ground – a revolution is taking place. Two entrepreneurs are taking on the world with a new concept in window blinds which, they say, is better than anything made before.

Their product, they say, blocks out more light than the competition – 100% blackout, with no light bleed.

It also has significant insulation properties (backed by university studies) which they say can help homeowners knock up to 14% off their heating bills. (Conversely, the clever honeycomb fabric the blinds are made from can also help keep homes cooler in the summer, something that was studied by the Derby University over a 12-month period).

Blind Screen co-founders Paul Cheetham (left) and Lenny Reynolds

The business, called Blind Screen, was only set up in August 2022, but already has a manufacturer employing 45 staff working on an out-sourced production line in Lancashire, and 1,400 independent UK trade partners selling and installing its products. Of those, around 150 have been made dedicated “Gold Partners” for the brand.

Within months of the actual product launch, Blind Screen has sold around 30,000 units, with new designs in the pipeline and plans to move into the US, Australian and other overseas markets over the coming weeks and months.

With international partners now coming on board, co-founders Lenny Reynolds and Paul Cheetham see no reason why sales shouldn’t be in the millions of units within the next couple of years.

‘This is a whole new category of made-to-measure blinds, something that has not been done for decades’

The pair are so confident in what they have, and the potential for more lines to be launched, that they have already turned down big figure offers to buy them out.

Lenny has 22 years’ experience making blinds in Derby, while Paul’s background includes early AI work at Oxford University spin-off NaturalMotion, which was acquired by Zynga for £500m. He also worked at Microsoft, and later founded a lead generation business that, he said, generated £12m for local blinds companies in 2022.

Lenny said: “This is a whole new category of made-to-measure blinds, something that has not been done for decades.

“If a customer wants a blackout or a thermal blind, I’d say there's nothing better in the UK and beyond. Within the industry a 100% blackout blind is virtually unheard of.”

He said the East Midlands was already at the heart of the UK blinds industry – with awardwinning Hillary’s Blinds based in Colwick, and Nottingham’s Blinds2Go the biggest online retailer in Britain.

Blind Screen wants to help continue that tradition of innovation, sales, manufacturing and job creation.

Lenny and Paul said their sliding blinds – the three different types currently on the market are branded 01, 02 and 03 – are attracting average orders which are typically higher than other makes and sit comfortably between the threefor-£99 ranges and top-of-the-range £1,000 shutters.

Paul Cheetham, Derby South MP Baggy Shanker and Lenny Reynolds at the House of Commons

Blind Screen operations at the Hallis Hudson factory in Preston

The latest spin-off product, called Sella Trim, is a peel and stick-on trim that can be used to attach blinds to window frames without the use of any silicone.

It’s quick and easy to install, they said, so it’s just right for DIYers. It also gives greater tolerances compared to other types of blinds and shutters, meaning if you’re up to 20mm out on measurements of your window coverings, you can still get the perfect finish.

Lenny said: “Within any industry you can have the very best products in the world, but if it's a nightmare to install, people won’t be able to sell it. We’ve made Blind Screen products the most “feature-rich” blinds on the market – not just with the university-backed energy-saving properties and the 100% blackout, but they are also water-resistant, flame-retardant and stainresistant and there is memory to the fabric, so if

you scrunch it up, it goes back to its original form.

“Blind Screen products also have the benefits of a dedicated insect screen all in one enclosure. I certainly don’t know of any other blind that is as feature-rich as a Blind Screen.

“Our advanced system reduces the gap between rail and fabric to just 1mm, virtually eliminating cold spots around windows where heat typically escapes. And this is just the beginning – our upcoming product innovations promise even greater energy efficiency gains

“I’ve been nearly half a life in the industry and the first big issue we had to overcome was blackout – we overcame that – and then set about trying to prove it is the most efficient blind in the UK, if not the world.

“We’ve now got three models and a fantastic no-drill system and another

The 2024 Blind Screen awards night for its Gold Partners

system called the Zedd Fit coming out in the next two-three months which achieves 49% heat retention.”

They have a 10-strong team at their offices in Pride Park, and the frames are put together by an established manufacturer in Preston under licence.

They eventually hope to have a UK supplier for the aluminium strips that make up the frames too, but have yet to find someone that can match the engineering precision of their supplier in China.

As they develop the brand overseas, they want to find manufacturers in each new location and Lenny is even considering moving out to the States for a year to train up teams of installers there.

So far, they have put around £250,000 into developing their new Zedd Fit product, testing the insulating properties at the universities of Salford and Derby.

Paul said Innovate UK Business Growth funding and advice from East Midlands Chamber’s innovation and growth specialist Neil McCluskey helped the business refocus its strategy, for instance helping them perform an IP audit and carry out patenting and registration of Blind Screen designs.

With support from Derby City Council’s Ascend programme and economic growth

manager Jane Kirby the business received a £25,000 loan and £10,000 advisory grant to support growth.

Other support has included a £10,000 grant from Vision Derbyshire to exhibit at Grand Design Live and other shows. In addition, Blind Screen was the only successful candidate at Derby University to be awarded an Accelerated Knowledge Transfer Partnership in 2024.

‘The support received has been instrumental in the success of Blind Screen’s worldwide expansion’

And a Derby Innovation Accelerator grant –funded by the city council’s share of the UK Shared Prosperity Fund and delivered by University of Derby – has helped support the team’s latest design.

Paul said the help they had had from the Chamber and Derby City Council had been priceless.

He said: “The support received has been instrumental in the success of Blind Screen’s worldwide expansion. We wouldn’t have been able to achieve this without it.”

The pair said the whole thing had “exploded” and they were already generating 1.6 million

The Blind Screen team at BBSA at the Coventry Building Society Arena

Blind Screen activities at the Hallis Hudson factory in Preston

social media followers and 900 million product views on Instagram, Tik-Tok and Facebook.

They now have 16 designs, half a dozen patents and around 18 trademarks, with two models said to cut heat loss by 49% on double glazed windows. On single glazing, they say that rises to an 82% reduction in loss.

The business model sees the pair take a licence fee from every unit sold, so with total retail sales within the first year-or-so close to £10m, the Derby team will take about £1m.

Lenny said: “It’s not just the UK where this has taken the industry by storm, it’s the whole world.

“I’d comfortably say we have more traction on social media and more viral videos – with more than a million views – than any other blinds company in the world.

“We’re now conducting deals with some of the biggest companies in the world.

“Ireland is done. Australia and New Zealand are ready to sign. Then we’re going over to America, South Africa and Canada.”

He said Derby University has been heavily involved helping them with the new products, with two students helping with rapid prototyping and further funding to the team to help with tooling.

He said: “We’ve already got forecasts in the millions of dollars in Australia with the Zedd Fit.

“That’s going to be huge across the world. We believe it's going to be probably one of the biggest online blinds you can install yourself –100% blackout, the most thermal efficient blinds for both heat reduction and heat retention,

which you can put up in under a couple of minutes with no drilling, no silicon, nothing at all.

“I would say we will be launching that in April, 2025. That’s the one that we were offered millions of pounds for the patent about a year ago, but we didn’t want to take that because we know it’s a product that’s going to have worldwide traction for a long time.

“We feel there’s no blinds company in the world that can get it in front of people’s eyes like we can.

“We've just invested, invested, invested. We've had help, which we greatly appreciate, from the city of Derby.

“We launched the initial product at the British Blind and Shutter Show in October 2022, with the hope of getting 30 good trade customers –we ended up with 166 companies around the country.

“The original model was essentially bought made-to-measure from a production partner in China, but we very quickly changed that and brought the assembly to the UK.

‘We’ve been offered a few opportunities to sell over the last two years, but we wanted to support small to medium sized independent companies across the whole of the UK’

“We knew from day one that this was going to be huge, as soon as we went to the British Blind and Shutter Show – we spoke to five or six manufacturers across the UK, some extremely large companies and some independents, and ended up choosing Hallis Hudson, in Preston.”

The business is training up dozens of fitters a week to sell and install the blinds, some of which use the Blind Screen name in their own branding and make use of the Derby team’s marketing materials.

They are also in talks with the one of Europe’s biggest online blinds distributors to handle direct sales of the Zedd Fit blind which they hope will take a big chunk of an industry which they say is worth £16-£17bn a year.

The Ireland, Australia, New Zealand, America, South Africa and Canada deals are also looking good.

Lenny said: “I can't say too much, but these are deals with extremely large companies so we expect our turnover will probably be a couple of million this year. As for overall retail value, we expect it will be £25m to £30m over the course of the 12 months.

“This year is the roll-out across the big countries that spend the most on window furnishings and then the following year is where we'll see a huge increase in revenue.

“This is what we're best at. Our long-term vision would be having the frames screwed together in the UK and distributed all across the world.

“We have 1,400 companies in the UK that are all making a living from our products.

“We've been offered a few opportunities to sell over the last two years, but we wanted to support small to medium sized independent companies across the whole of the UK and that is our business model.

“We’re innovators of product and marketers. There's nobody gets a product out there to market and nobody innovates like we do at the moment.”

Lenny Reynolds conducts fitter training

STRATEGIC PARTNERS AND PATRONS

NEWS AND UPDATES FROM EAST MIDLANDS CHAMBER’S LEADING SUPPORTERS

IN BRIEF

EREWASH RESIDENTS SHARE VIEWS WITH MP

Residents in Erewash had the chance to share their housing stories during a visit by Chief Secretary to the Treasury, The Rt Hon Darren Jones MP.

The Minister was welcomed by housing group emh and its partners in his first leg on a tour of every nation and region of the UK – to meet front line workers and experts and add their expertise and opinions to help him as he leads the Government Spending Review.

The MP visited Long Eaton to tour emh’s £10m Oakleys Road scheme – supported by a grant from Homes England – which will provide 46 affordable homes.

He heard from emh residents about the difference affordable housing has made to their lives, and was joined by Erewash MP Adam Thompson and representatives from emh, Homes England, Erewash Borough Council, National Housing Federation and the developers MyPad.

BLUEPRINT REDESIGNS INIZIO WORKSPACE

Office and workplace

consultancy Blueprint Interiors has completed a full interior design and fitout for Inizio’s new office at Excelsior House in Ashby-de-la-Zouch.

Inizio, a healthcare consultancy, was formed in 2022 when Ashfield Health and Huntsworth joined forces.

Blueprint Interiors, also based in Ashby, was briefed to create a two-storey workspace that mixed collaborative working with flexible spaces and room to welcome clients.

To be sustainable, the building’s energy A rating was maintained, existing furniture repurposed, and recycled products made from ocean plastic installed.

Chloe Sproston, creative director at Blueprint, said: “Having worked with Ashfield Healthcare before it became Inizio, it was fantastic to be supporting them again on their impressive new office space.”

Rolls-Royce has been involved in a first-of-itskind recycling initiative –known as Tornado 2 Tempest –turning old RAF Tornado parts into powdered metal, which is then used to 3D print parts for its Orpheus small engine concept.

Orpheus – a programme to create affordable, twin-spool small engines – is part of the Future Combat Air System (FCAS) programme, and the new technique could be used for the next-generation Tempest combat air platform.

Britain’s Tempest stealth fighter will be one of the world’s most advanced, adaptable and connected fighter jets.

Many surplus MOD assets, such as spare and broken components, contain valuable metals including high quality steel, aluminium and titanium.

The Tornado 2 Tempest project team looked at whether some of these components could be

atomised into powders – known as “feedstock” – for additive manufacturing to make new parts.

Tornado components containing high quantities of titanium were cleaned and successfully atomised. The powder was used to make a 3D

printed nose cone – and compressor blades – which was installed onto an Orpheus test engine which was run in test conditions, with positive results.

A team of more than 80 people participated in the work, including Rolls-Royce graduate apprentices.

Key figure to leave university Rolls-Royce flying high with jet recycling initiative

Professor Edward Peck CBE is leaving Nottingham Trent University this summer after 11 years as its vice-chancellor and president.

He said: “I am very proud of all we have achieved together over the last 10 years at NTU – how we have worked with regional partners, influenced national policy, supported our students to prosper and delivered great impact with our research. We have doubled our student numbers while remaining focused on exceptional student experience and support.

“However, when considering leadership transitions, one must consider the best interests of the institution as well as the individual and as we head into our next strategic cycle of 2026-2031 it is the right time to hand this role to a new leader.”

Caroline Wayman, who chairs

NTU’s board of governors, said: “Following Edward’s announcement, I’d like to put on record my huge appreciation for his contribution to the development of NTU and the wider sector. Since he arrived in 2014, NTU has been transformed.

“Not only has NTU experienced considerable growth during Edward’s tenure, the outstanding quality of our teaching has been acknowledged twice in the TEF, and our world leading research performance recognised in subsequent REF outcomes.

“We have been awarded the accolade of university of the year five times and have made a huge impact on the lives of our students and the communities we serve.

“Fundamentally, the culture and values of NTU are something we are all immensely proud of and Edward has truly instilled this.”

A Royal Air Force Tornado GR4 coming up to retirement in March 2019

Professor Edward Peck CBE

First students join Freeths memorial bursary scheme

Freeths has announced the first two students to be accepted on its bursary programme, which was launched in memory of former Leicester office managing partner Mukesh Patel.

Undergraduate law students Umamah Faquirbhai, from De Montfort University, and Maymunah Valimia, from the University of Leicester, will receive £4,000 each year in their second and third years of study.

They will also get wider support from the firm including mentoring, a paid summer placement and an interview for the graduate apprenticeship scheme, based in Leicester.

Maymunah welcomed the support as she didn’t want worries about the expense of university holding her back.

She said: “I’m determined to become a great lawyer and I’m up

‘We were delighted by the quality of applicants and both Umamah and Maymunah were standout candidates’

for the challenge. When I researched Freeths, I loved what I found and had a feeling this was right for me.”

Umamah said: “This opportunity is a real stepping stone for me. I want to do my best for my entire family. I work part-time as an exam invigilator and the bursary means I can now work fewer hours and focus on my studies.”

The bursary was set up in tribute to Mukesh Patel, who died in February 2023 aged 54, leaving behind his wife Rita and their two sons.

Mukesh was a respected and

popular member of Freeths and of the wider local legal and business community. He was born and went to school in Leicester and led the firm’s regional dispute resolution team. He became managing partner in 2014.

The bursary was launched to remember his commitment to diversity and equality within the legal sphere and the business community. It will also continue his passion for opening doors for young people from less privileged backgrounds in Leicestershire.

Freeths managing partner Lisa Gilligan said: “We were delighted by the quality of applicants and both Umamah and Maymunah were standout candidates and are worthy recipients of the bursary.

“We’re really looking forward to welcoming them into the office for their summer work experience and it’s been great to get to know them during the application process.”

IN BRIEF

HOWDENS FORGES LINK WITH AUXILLIS

Global insurance group

Howden’s corporate and commercial team has announced a strategic partnership with Auxillis, which provides accident management services, to deliver a better service to its commercial and SME clients.

It will allow Howden to offer comprehensive accident management on non-fault claims, including vehicle recovery, repair management, and replacement vehicles.

Richard Graham, executive director, head of claims and risk management at Howden corporate and commercial, said: “We’re thrilled to partner with Auxillis, a leader in accident management services.

“This collaboration aligns with our commitment to deliver unparalleled support and innovative solutions to our clients when they need it most.”

“By combining our expertise with Auxillis’ extensive repair capability and mobility solutions, we can ensure our clients are back on the road quickly and the impact to their business is kept to an absolute minimum.”

RESEARCH TO BOOST HEAT-PUMP DEMAND

Input from Loughborough University could lead to an increasing number of heatpumps being installed in homes across the country – reducing our reliance on less-efficient boilers.

A research paper, which had significant contributions from a Loughborough University academic, used existing boiler data from around 4,600 homes to predict heat-pump readiness.

It found that 31% could operate with low temperature heat pumps – without any upgrades to radiators – while two-thirds could have high temperature heat pumps installed.

The findings contradict previous analysis which intimated that radiator upgrades were almost always needed.

Members of the Freeths team with Maymunah Valimia and Umamah Faquirbhai (centre left and right). Inset: Former Freeths Leicester office managing partner Mukesh Patel

CHAMBER NEWS

CONNECTING, CHAMPIONING AND SUPPORTING LOCAL BUSINESSES

Increase in inflation will see more rising prices

The rise in inflation to 3% in January could lead to businesses raising prices, says East Midlands Chamber.

The latest estimated figure from the Office for National Statistics is up from 2.5% in December to its highest level in 10 months and is significantly higher than the Bank of England’s target of 2%.

East Midlands Chamber director of policy and insight Richard Blackmore said: “This 10 month inflation high isn’t good news for East Midlands firms, especially when inflation was reported as one of the biggest concerns of businesses in our Quarterly Economic Survey, with six-out-of-10 anticipating that they’d need to increase their prices.

“Already grappling with the persistent high cost of doing business and bracing for further costs to hit, like higher National Insurance contributions from April, this is yet another blow and frustrating that we’re moving further away from the Bank of England’s 2% target, set by the government.

“All eyes will now be on the Bank of England to see whether this inflation rise impacts their decision to cut interest rates or not in March.

“It puts the likelihood of a cut into question, although economists do expect interest rates to fall this year.

“Operating within such tough conditions, it’s essential political leaders prioritise support for business and that the government’s comprehensive spending review gives clear assurance that economic growth can and will be delivered.”

Expo puts the focus on AI and workforce skills

AI was among the hot topics discussed at the Love Business Expo 2025 which attracted industry leaders from around the region.

Guest speakers, panel discussions and networking sessions brought the region’s firms together at Holywell Conference Centre, in Loughborough.

East Midlands Chamber was the 2025 headline sponsor for the exhibition and networking event, which was hosted by EMA Training.

Guest speakers included innovator Tom Willday of Leicesterbased Willsow – which makes books impregnated with seeds which children can plant – and podcaster ‘The Disruptive Entrepreneur’ Rob Moore from Progressive Property.

East Midlands Chamber director of policy and insight Richard Blackmore chaired a talk on technology, future skills and AI.

Afterwards he said: “Looking at how businesses are preparing for and embracing new technology like AI, sharing best practice, exploring the potential of technology, as well as any challenges, is a conversation that’s essential in 2025.

“These discussions really light the touch paper and springboard innovative ways of thinking. That’s so important when technology evolves at such staggering speed.

Love Business Expo 2025 has been an opportunity to bring sectors together to share insight, experience and ideas.”

East Midlands Chamber president and SMB College Group

‘Technology like AI releases staff to be more innovative, more creative’

principal Dawn Whitemore was on a panel looking at future skills and technology.

She said: “Technology like AI releases staff to be more innovative, more creative. You fill any void with positive elements to improve productivity and what you do.

“Getting businesses and educators together at events like this is essential, as we don't do enough talking. It’s not just about getting people together – it's about making sure the conversation goes the right way and is impactful. For me, that is essential.”

NetMonkeys managing director Nick Gall was a panelist in a discussion on AI uptake.

He said: “The adoption of AI will be high. If you go up against somebody in a job interview, and one person is super switched-on with AI and its tools but you're not, then it could hinder you. Being aware of the AI skills that are needed is an opportunity.”

EMA Training managed and hosted Love Business Expo. Regional director Gemma Orton said: “Highlights this year of Love Business Expo have been the number of relationships being built throughout the day and new relationships beginning.

“We bring together Derbyshire, Leicestershire and Nottinghamshire

and that’s really special. We put on this Expo once a year and I think because of the time of year, everybody’s ready to get back to networking.”

Scarlett Canavan, business and marketing manager of Speaker Theatre sponsor ER Recruitment, said: “Love Business Expo has been all about positivity and celebrating what businesses are actually doing. We heard from three sets of speakers, each sharing their take on the challenges facing business, as well as what to celebrate. It's really important that we come together to showcase that.”

Matt Bonser, account director at Purpose Media took part in a panel discussion on AI, technology and skills for the future.

He said: “I love the idea that these tools can create ideas and create useful content, but I also advocate the point that you need a human to human. It’s a new tool. It's a new thing. Everyone’s talking about it, and it can add a lot of value when used in the right way.”

Nikki Robson, managing director at Breedon Consulting, who also joined the panel, said: “AI is a really, really powerful tool to help you improve your business and improve your efficiencies, so why would you not do it, if it helps you grow your business? And if you don't embrace it, you'll just get left behind because everybody else will.”

Clockwise from left: Panel discussion at the Love Business Expo, Gemma Orton speaks at the event, delegates at Holywell Conference Centre

Chamber welcomes apprenticeship ruling

Shorter minimum terms and the removal of English and maths requirements to pass apprenticeships have been welcomed by East Midlands Chamber.

Under new government measures, over 19s will no longer need a level 2 English and maths qualification –equivalent to a GCSE – to pass an apprenticeship with businesses left to decide whether they require it.

‘Candidates are getting a great career kickstart in a professional environment, while the workplace gets someone enthusiastic and hungry to learn’

The minimum duration of an apprenticeship will also drop from 12 to eight months in August.

East Midlands Chamber director of resources Lucy Robinson said:

“Removing barriers, like cutting four months from what was a 12-month commitment for apprenticeships and

removing the qualifications the recruit needs to pass will make apprenticeships a viable option to more East Midlands businesses and that’s something we’ve been calling for.

“Letting employers have flexibility in deciding whether level 2 English and maths qualifications are needed for the apprentice to pass makes good sense as the needs of businesses differ. When seven-out-of-10 East Midlands businesses have been struggling to find the right candidates to fill roles and 20% are planning to pull back on training investment, according to our Quarterly Economic Survey, apprenticeships are a worthwhile consideration for firms looking to hire.

“Apprenticeships can be a winwin for both employers and recruits. Candidates are getting a great career kickstart in a professional environment, while the workplace gets someone enthusiastic and hungry to learn.

“With the skills gap an ongoing challenge, now’s a good time for businesses to explore this avenue.”

Lucy Robinson, East Midlands Chamber’s director of resources

Unemployment falling but lower recruitment likely

Unemployment in the region has dropped to 4% but the impact of additional costs such as increased National Insurance contributions could lead to lower recruitment, says East Midlands Chamber.

Estimated figures from the Office for National Statistics for the last quarter of 2024 are lower than the UK level of 4.4%, and 0.6% lower than the previous three months.

Director of policy and insight

Richard Blackmore (pictured, inset) said: “While it’s encouraging that unemployment has gradually fallen in the East Midlands and is 1% lower than a year before when it was 5%, research we’ve carried out among the region’s businesses over their recruitment and investment intentions doesn’t paint such a pretty picture.

“However we look at this, there’s just no hiding from the fact businesses will be hit with a hiring cost hike from April due to factors like increased National Insurance contributions. East Midlands businesses have indicated they plan to reduce their recruitment spend over the course of 2025.

“In our Quarterly Economic Survey the number of businesses in the region planning to cut back on recruitment jumped from 9% to 22% – the fact it doubled over three months is significant.

“Only six-out-of-10 plan to keep recruitment the same, which was a slight fall from the previous survey, and we could see that number drop further.

“Businesses will be looking to the government’s comprehensive spending review for a clear strategic and delivery plan that will drive economic growth, giving business the confidence to invest in their workforce.”

‘East Midlands businesses have indicated they plan to reduce their recruitment spend over the course of 2025’

Performance in sales and orders, challenges in hiring staff and anticipated profit will be covered in the Chamber’s first Quarterly Economic Survey of 2025.

Business leaders are being urged to share their experience and expectations for the months ahead, across areas ranging from investment intention to future pricing. Corporate taxation, inflation and business rates were the greatest concerns of businesses in the most recent survey, conducted after the Chancellor’s Autumn Budget.

Compiled from a combination of

measurable data and sentiment, the Chamber’s Quarterly Economic Survey is a key indicator of challenges and opportunities identified by East Midlands businesses. The findings are recognised by economists, the Bank of England and the Government.

Richard Blackmore said: “The last Quarterly Economic Survey painted an alarming picture – an almost total turnaround in all measures, with nearly all the data tracking business performance and projected growth pointing in a negative direction.

“Businesses reported significant drops in sales and orders, both within the UK and overseas; the number of businesses saying they plan to pull back on recruitment doubled and there was a huge fall of 38% in businesses expecting to make a profit. When businesses are in a good place, they tend to cite competition as one of their primary concerns and will often have plans

to spend on things like machinery or increased headcount.

“Those are signs of healthy, confident operation. In the last survey, we saw protective measures taking shape, with investment plans stalling and corporate taxation, inflation and business rates soaring to the top of reported worries.

“Reeling from the tough announcements made in the Autumn Budget, requiring firms to prepare for higher costs from April this year, the picture seemed to be a general tightening of the belt.

“Tracking the changing experience of East Midlands businesses is vital and having a wide range of respondents provides the most useful results.

“This is the first Quarterly Economic Survey of 2025 and I’d urge businesses of all sizes to take a few moments to share their experiences and expectations for the months ahead.”

Visit: is.gd/2XUsI9

BCC urges government to grow economy

The British Chambers of Commerce (BCC) is urging Government to help firms grow as part of its future spending plans.

The business group’s submission to the Treasury for the comprehensive spending review contains 49 recommendations on ways to grow the economy that the Government should support. The top asks include:

GET BRITAIN THRIVING

• Invest in regional infrastructure by delivering transport projects and grid connectivity, improving rail capacity and electrifying key sections of the network.

• Ease the upfront cost pressure on firms through reform of business rates, with the aim of lowering the multiplier to 45p by the end of this Parliament.

• Provide long-term funding and practical support to help SMEs adopt Artificial Intelligence to boost productivity and growth.

The BCC is calling for more investment in infrastructure

GET BRITAIN WORKING

• Invest in young people to bridge the gap between education and work.

• Support a healthier workforce and keep people in jobs by reducing the employer and employee tax on workplace health services.

• Involve more employers in skills planning by extending investment in Local Skills Improvement Plans and addressing gaps in training provision.

GET BRITAIN TRADING

• Provide global leadership by investing in digital trade.

• Give SMEs better support to export and promote their products.

• Build upon the success of the International Investment Summit to develop a pipeline of overseas investors into the UK.

The BCC’s recommendations were shaped after extensive consultation with its business council and 51 Chambers across the UK. They also factored in research by the BCC’s Insights Unit, involving more than 5,000 businesses, on the key issues holding back growth.

Going solo has been a team effort

Ayoung man’s journey from uncertainty to entrepreneurial success is a testament to the power of personalised support and determination.

When Mansfield Jobcentre referred Dillon Downie to the Work and Health Programme run by the Chamber’s Employment Services team, he faced challenges with low confidence, feeling overwhelmed by the jobs market and feeling unsure of his capabilities.

Recognising his potential immediately, employment specialist Cara Adams provided tailored coaching sessions focused on identifying his strengths, overcoming barriers and building essential employment skills.

Cara’s guidance helped Dillon improve his communication, craft a compelling CV, and develop a clear action plan. As their sessions progressed, Dillon discovered a passion for web design, sparking the idea of turning this creative interest into a viable career path.

With Cara’s support and expertise in the self-employed sector, Dillon also received training in business planning, marketing, and financial management.

The hands-on assistance enabled him to take the bold step of launching his own web design business, Acerlinx, offering services such as digital marketing, copywriting and web app development.

‘I’ve always had a passion for web design, but turning that passion into a business felt like a huge leap’

Progress wasn’t without challenges though. Dillon faced the daunting task of establishing himself in a competitive market, managing his finances and building a client base from scratch. However, his growing confidence and newly acquired skillset paved the way for success.

After establishing his business, Dillon was connected with selfemployment specialist Andy Greaves, who provided further guidance and resources and helped him join the Chamber, opening doors to networking opportunities, business support and community connections.

Last September, he attended the Employment Services’ Pathway to Employment jobs fair at Mansfield Library where he met representatives of Mansfield District Council, which led him to bid for a council project. After a rigorous bidding process, he was awarded a contract with that council and with Ashfield District Council.

He recently joined Generation Next, giving him further access to mentoring programmes, networking events, and opportunities for professional development.

He has also gone on to become an advocate for Employment Services, giving up his time to attend sessions to share his success and talk about the benefits of working with the Chamber.

In just 22 weeks, Dillon transformed his future, and with continued mentorship from Cara and Andy over the following months, his business continues to thrive.

His story shows how tailored employability support can empower individuals to pursue their entrepreneurial dreams, contributing not only to their personal growth but also to the regional business landscape. It also highlights the importance of

continuous skill development and access to professional networks in achieving success.

Dillon said: “Starting Acerlinx has been a dream of mine for years. I’ve always had a passion for web design, but turning that passion into a business felt like a huge leap. The idea for Acerlinx came from wanting to help small businesses create modern, functional websites without the high costs that larger agencies charge.

“Before Acerlinx, I was stuck in a cycle of short-term jobs that didn’t really fulfil me. I’d been trying to break into web design for a while, but it was hard to know where to start. Financial uncertainty and selfdoubt were huge obstacles. I wasn’t sure if I had the tools or resources to go out on my own. East Midlands Chamber helped me to gain these.

“They helped me with everything from creating a solid business plan to accessing funding and networking opportunities.

“I worked closely with them to build confidence, understand the practical steps to set up Acerlinx, and even refine my pitch for a big contract. Their support gave me the push I needed to finally take that leap into self-employment.”

Chamber welcomes plans to manage flood risks

Government plans for spending on flood schemes across the region have been cautiously welcomed by East Midlands Chamber.

Announced as part of the government’s £2.65 billion ‘Plan for Change’, the investment includes £35m going into the Derby Flood Risk Management System and £2.5m allocated to flood schemes in Nottinghamshire and Leicestershire and Derbyshire.

Recent severe storms have included Storm Babet, in October 2023, which flooded around 1,600 properties in Derbyshire alone.

East Midlands Chamber chief executive Scott Knowles said: “Investment is needed to better prepare the East Midlands for the increasingly

devastating impact extreme weather can have on businesses.

“Funding must be adequate in protecting and supporting businesses that have experienced repeated damage in the last few years and seek to protect those with future risk of damage.

“Any preventative measures must be effective, as the threat from storm damage is not going away. With climate change, the risk level increases each year and we’ve already seen the devastation that extreme weather can have across the region.

“The disruption to businesses and the wider economy through closures, costly repairs and renovations cannot be underestimated and continued investment will be needed.”

Dillon Downie (centre back) with representatives of the Mansfield Employment Services team

The River Trent flooding a road at Swarkestone

Coachingexpert can get you on road to success

Peak Thinking, in Chapel-enle-Frith, was established in 2024 by Nick Brand. It takes advantage of decades of personal development experience gained from senior leadership positions during a successful career in pharmaceuticals.

The benefit of working with Nick is that in six weeks or less, his tailored one-to-one coaching programme reconnects clients with their life’s purpose – with a clear path forward.

Using more than 35 years of experience, each programme is built around three transformative phases, designed to remove barriers, shift perspectives, and provide thinking modes to “discover”, “refocus” and “strengthen”.

Nick has been through transformational challenges himself –he was successful, knows the processes that work, and so can lead others. Clients gain the insights and strategies for purposeful decisions, realigning career and personal goals, for greater fulfilment.

The biggest achievement to date was making the transition from senior director and site head of quality for a facility with around 500 people to coaching full time. This was after establishing a coaching practice in his spare time three years ago.

‘The Peak District affords the opportunity of a remote working environment that is truly inspirational’

The Peak District is a key enabler. This unique location is more than a backdrop – it’s an integral part of his coaching preparation, creating space for reflection, clarity and deeper thinking.

He said: “The Peak District affords the opportunity of a remote working environment that is truly inspirational, as much as it is stunning. The internet connectivity is reliable as well as fast, yet still improving in the area where I live.

“I plan to expand the coaching experience from remote video calls to face-to-face – specifically taking the opportunity to meet clients to take a walk in the Peak District as the backdrop to their thinking.

“This, I know, would be aweinspiring, but it would have an additional benefit. Some clients are uncomfortable being face-to-face with a coach, mentor (or counsellor). Walking affords them a way to communicate, to tell their story while facing nature.

“So many current and prospective

Business Peak District (BPD) is a free membership organisation for businesses in the area covered by the Peak District National Park, High Peak, Staffordshire Moorlands and Derbyshire Dales. Its principal supporter is East Midlands Chamber, and it works closely with councils, the national park authority and the University of Derby, as well as Visit Peak District and Derbyshire. BPD has more than 700 members. To find out more email members@businesspeakdistrict.com.

clients have commented on how fortunate I am to live in the Peak District – something I am acutely aware of. Conversations make meaningful connections and there is never a shortage of active participants at Business Peak District networking events, in nice venues.

“The members of the Peak District networks are so friendly and knowledgeable. Above they all come with an in-built desire to help. It also makes it possible to provide services or products to wider audiences.

“My current plans are to expand my client base, to increase the number of people I help that are “suffering” or “seeking”. I also want to create content beyond one-toone sessions, in the form of on-line self-development, as well as the “walking coaching” sessions.

“And I want to support other businesses with leadership training – providing impactful, influential and confident presenting skills – to help them reach their prospective clients more effectively.”

Get your nominations in for 2025 PA Awards

PA AWARD DATES FOR YOUR DIARY:

• Nominee Celebration –

1 April 2025, Derbyshire County Cricket Club

• Finalists Announced via email and social media –mid-April

• In-person Judging Day –12 May 2025

• Finalist Celebrations –5 June 2025, National Space Centre, Leicester

• East Midlands PA Awards Night – 2 October 2025, Nottingham Belfry

The 2025 East Midlands PA Awards are continuing to accept nominations through to mid-March.

Now into its third year, the awards recognise and celebrate the incredible talent and achievements of those working in an executive or business support role, based across the East Midlands region including Leicestershire, Derbyshire, Nottinghamshire, Lincolnshire and Northamptonshire.

The awards are run by Midlands events organiser, sector support body and networking specialist PA Forum with support from the Chamber.

There are various categories to choose from, covering positions ranging from receptionist and administrative assistant, to office assistant, secretary, office manager, personal assistant, executive assistant, team leader, team

• Project Champion of the Year

• Rising Star

• Administrative Professional of the Year

• Outstanding Achievement

• Virtual Assistant of the Year

• Virtual Assistant Business of the Year

• PA of the Year

manager, business support manager, chief of staff and more. Individuals can be nominated in as many categories as they want, so there are no limits on singing someone’s praises – or your own. All of the categories are inclusive of all levels of experience across all appropriate sectors:

• Team of the Year

• Business Support Manager of the Year

• Lifetime Achievement

For information on the category criteria and to put forward nominations, go to www.paforum.co.uk and click the East Midlands PA Awards tab at the top. For further information about the work PA Forum does across the Midlands, or to find out about the range of partnership packages available, email PA Forum founder Daniel Skermer at Daniel@paforum.co.uk or Lesley Young, executive support manager at East Midlands Chamber at Lesley.Young@emc-dnl.co.uk

Guests at last year’s awards

Nick Brand of Peak Thinking

Accelerator project has kept firm focus on energyefficiency

Since the autumn of 2023, the Chamber has been delivering the Accelerator project on behalf of local authorities in Derby, Derbyshire, Nottinghamshire and Leicester*.

Funded by the UK Shared Prosperity Fund (UKSPF), the project has offered businesses the opportunity to start, sustain and grow.

Support has been very much place-based, with each participating district determining where it wants to focus its efforts – through things such as action planning workshops, sustainability events, growth vouchers to fund expert consultancy, access to grant funding, support with decarbonisation or energy-saving initiatives.

Participating businesses have achieved a number of outcomes as a result – from improved productivity and revenue, to jobs being safeguarded or created, new products and services launched and digital technologies introduced.

Last but not least, the project has contributed towards sizeable progress in the move towards net zero.

While the original project comes to an end later this month, there is still the opportunity to tap into support including a one-to-one meeting with a business adviser, attendance at a workshop or webinar, or taking advantage of decarbonisation advice.

* Excluding Bolsover

SUPPORT FOR DECARBONISATION

A decarbonisation plan can support a business to boost its reputation, cut costs through energy efficiency, access new business opportunities, attract and retain talent, and stay compliant with changing regulations.

The Chamber’s expert advisers can help businesses to develop a tailored decarbonisation plan to reduce energy usage. This includes assessing carbon footprint and implementing strategies such as reducing energy consumption, switching to renewable energy sources, optimising production processes, improving supply chains and minimising waste.

Businesses that have benefitted include:

ALPHA CONSTRUCTION, HILTON (1)

Established in 1982, Alpha Construction is a civil engineering and building contractor specialising in the high voltage electricity industry, renewable energy and industrial projects.

Rising costs together with inflation and increased competition from less experienced companies offering unsustainably low prices have impacted the business’s growth trajectory.

With the support of a comprehensive energy audit and decarbonisation plan, coupled with an energy grant from South Derbyshire District Council, the business has been able to plan changes with an anticipated annual saving of £6,000 on energy costs as well as carbon emissions reduction of more than five tonnes.

BEXONS, NOTTINGHAM

Bexons is a family-run, trade printing business which first opened its doors 60 years ago.

Over the last five years, its energy costs have doubled, significantly impacting its profit margins. The business has had to think of new ways to reduce its electricity consumption, become more energy efficient and reduce its carbon footprint.

A sustainability grant from Gedling Borough Council has funded the installation of solar panels which are expected to save £3,800 annually.

HOE

GRANGE HOLIDAYS, BRASSINGTON (2)

Hoe Grange Holidays offers sustainable tourism accommodation with four lodges, two glamping pods and a traditional Gypsy caravan.

The business’s diligence in using renewable energy fed back through ground and air source heating systems is helping it progress to its target of a negative carbon footprint. A full premises energy audit has helped the business identify where and when energy was being used and how best to reduce reliance on the National Grid supply.

A decarbonisation grant from Derbyshire Dales District Council has led to the installation of extra solar panels and a battery storage system which has reduced the business’s reliance on imported electricity by around 60%. Together with taking advantage of a cheap rate, night-time tariff, the business is saving in the region of £800-£1,000 per month.

CPI SYSTEMS, SUTTON-IN-ASHFIELD

Process Control & Instrumentation was set up in March 2005 to provide a one-stop shop for the supply of electrical and automation products, ranging from simple components through to fully bespoke control system design and builds which are approved for hazardous areas. The business was re-branded as CPI Systems in 2008.

High energy costs and a desire to make the premises run as efficiently as possible were the catalyst for the business seeking support from the Accelerator project. An energy audit highlighted that the business’s single glazed upstairs windows were energy inefficient and that its flat south facing roof made it the ideal candidate for solar panels.

A grant from Ashfield District Council has helped the business install solar panels and double-glazing units which the energy audit suggests will, respectively, reduce energy loss from an average 1,269W to just 335 W (a reduction of 934W) and cut greenhouse gas emissions by 854kgC02e.

MACG RACING LTD, BARROW UPON TRENT (3)

MacG Racing began life in 2010 as a motorsport racing team and has since evolved to become an engineering business and performance parts supplier.

Keeping a strict control of cash flow, particularly with the escalating cost of running a business over recent years, has been challenging. An energy grant from South Derbyshire District Council has funded the installation of air sourced heat pumps and improved thermal insulation which will result in around a 30% reduction in carbon footprint.

THOMPSON TREES, WIRKSWORTH (4)

Thompson Tree Services is an arboricultural company offering professional tree care and vegetation management services throughout the UK.

The business was looking to grow, reduce overheads and cut CO2 output by installing solar panels. A decarbonisation grant from Derbyshire Dales District Council has supported the installation of solar panels which will provide 98% of the company’s electricity requirements.

FINAL OPPORTUNITY TO GET INVOLVED

Contact the Chamber’s business support team on 0330 053 8639, or email info@emc-dnl.co.uk to arrange an exploratory meeting with a business adviser.

Alternatively, select your district* from the dropdown box on the Accelerator landing page: www.d2n2growthhub.co.uk/accelerator/ and complete an Expression of Interest form.

UPCOMING WORKSHOPS AND WEBINARS

IN-PERSON

• 11 March: Practical Guide to Leadership & Management, Swadlincote

• 18 March: Marketing Made Easy for Tourism Businesses, Chesterfield

• 19 March: Generation Next Leadership & Growth Conference 2025, Nottingham

• 19 March: Harnessing AI for Business: Practical Applications and Legal Insights

• 20 March: Utilising ChatGPT for Your Business, Worksop

• 25 March: Nottinghamshire Manufacturing Network, Mansfield

• 1 April: Leicestershire Manufacturing Network, Leicester

• 15 April: Derby Manufacturing Network, Derby

ONLINE

• 11 March: How to Safely Update Your WordPress Website

• 11 March: Managing Environmental Risk in the Supply Chain

• 13 March: The One-Hour Google Ads course

• 18 March: Building a Sustainability Plan: What to say to your B2B Customers

• 20 March: Utilising AI for SEO

Book your place at: bit.ly/AcceleratorEvents.

The Accelerator project is funded by UK Government through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund.

Increase in GDP is cold comfort as costs spiral

GDP grew 0.1% in the last three months of 2024 but additional costs such as higher National Insurance contributions and an increased minimum wage will hit businesses hard, says East Midlands Chamber.

The October to December estimated figure from the Office for National Statistics followed zero growth in the previous three months.

now, to support businesses when they need it most. We’ve heard plenty of promise around longterm strategy, but what’s the position for business support in the short and immediate term?

4

East Midlands Chamber director of policy and insight Richard Blackmore said: “Slight growth gives mild comfort in holding off threat of recession for the time being, but with a juggernaut of higher costs hurtling toward businesses, just operating normally is going to get much more expensive from April.

“Our Quarterly Economic Survey has already shown protective measures come in, with firms pulling back on intended plant, machinery and recruitment spend.

“The new Government needs to act – the time for action is right

“April is worryingly close, when businesses will see their cost sheet rocket – National Insurance contributions higher than they were, a lower level where those payments start and a raised national minimum wage.

“Businesses should be worrying about competitors, not losing sleep over whether costs imposed on them allow them to keep the doors open. Corporate taxation, inflation and business rates topped the list of concerns in our Quarterly Economic Survey, which tracks business performance and sentiment across the region.

“Political leaders need to step in and bring in supportive measures straight away so businesses can get on with doing business without worry and we see real growth in the East Midlands.”

CHAMBER NETWORKS

BUILDING CONNECTIONS WITH YOUR PEERS AND BUSINESS LEADERS

Still time to enter Awards!

The deadline for entries to the 2025 Generation Next Awards has been extended – but only until 13 March. It means there’s still time to get applications in for Awards that recognise the achievements and potential of the region’s young talent and future business leaders.

The Awards are one of the most important events in the network’s calendar, with three new categories this year – Excellence in Professional Services, Excellence in Sales or Marketing and Communicator of the Year.

The 2025 categories are:

• Apprentice of the Year – Recognising people aged 18-35 who are working towards or have completed their apprenticeship or T-level qualification.

• Creators and Makers Award – This celebrates young people who use creativity within their roles in areas such as manufacturing, sales, communication and the creative industries.

• Excellence in Customer Experience Award – For 18-35-year-olds who can demonstrate industry-leading standards of service with evidence on exceeding customer expectations.

• Entrepreneur of the Year Award – This Award recognises entrepreneurs with the drive and ambition to carry through innovative strategies which contribute to the growth of their business.

• Future Leader Award – The headline Award recognises an influential professional who can demonstrate how they have made a big impact on their organisation’s growth.

• Innovator of the Year Award – This honours someone who can demonstrate how their ideas have improved business growth, made improvements for its people or enhanced what their business does.

• Talent Development Award – This celebrates an individual or business whose culture contributes to its overall success, by supporting talent, nurturing and empowering the next generation through training, mentoring and personal development.

• Community Impact Champion Award – Celebrating an individual who has made an impact through volunteering, environmental sustainability, or promoting equality, diversity and inclusion.

• Excellence in Sales or Marketing – Applicants should demonstrate how clearly defined goals and approaches have led to increases in sales or amplified their brand’s messages.

• Emerging Talent – For someone at the start of their career who is “one to watch”.

• Communicator of the Year – This seeks to find someone who can demonstrate excellence in developing, delivering and amplifying strong messages.

• Excellence in Professional Services – This Award recognises an outstanding professional who excels in fields such as events, retail, hospitality, finance and law.

Winners will receive their awards at a celebratory event in the summer.

To enter, visit generationnextemc.co.uk/2025-awards

Kirsty Shelts, Blu Hardy and Elizabeth Ashton at last year’s

Networkers break the ice at sporting event

Generation Next held its February social at the Motorpoint Arena Nottingham watching the Nottingham Panthers play Guildford Flames in an evening that blended networking with fun.

The event offered more than just a night of hockey – it was a chance to break down the barriers surrounding networking and foster genuine relationships in a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere.

Thanks to the generous support of Motorpoint Arena, members of the Chamber networking group for young professionals were treated to a VIP hospitality box, to enjoy the game in style while making connections that were both fun and professional.

A behind-the-scenes tour, along with access to the team warm-ups, added a unique touch that set the evening apart.

Generation Next manager Kate Nemeth said: “This event wasn’t

just about making contacts – it was about creating lasting memories.

“Many attendees shared laughs, exchanged stories, and forged meaningful connections that will continue to have a positive impact on their professional journeys.

“The relaxed environment allowed for organic conversations and a sense of camaraderie, making it the perfect setting for both seasoned professionals and newcomers to feel at ease.”

She offered a special thank you to Harry Payne, Jack Jones, Kylie Costall, and Poppy Horne for their hard work in making the event a reality. She also thanked the team at Motorpoint Arena for their ongoing commitment in championing young professionals and supporting the network.

She said: “Their sponsorship made it all possible, and we look forward to continuing to work with them.”

Date for your diary

The Generation Next Leadership and Growth Conference 2025 takes place at Cleaver and Wake in Nottingham on 19 March.

Aimed at empowering the region’s emerging leaders, the conference is sponsored by Mattioli Woods and hosted by Generation Next.

It will feature inspiring talks, networking and panel discussions on trends impacting young leaders today.

To reserve a place at the Generation Next Leadership and Growth Conference 2025 visit: is.gd/WKFpbG

Generation Next members at the ice hockey night

Awards

Celebrating women in business

The 2025 East Midlands Chamber Enterprising Women’s Awards will be launched at the networking group’s annual conference this month.

The Awards celebrate women in business at all stages of their careers – from team leaders and entrepreneurs to the young executives of the future – and are a chance to recognise the best from the region’s business communities and to celebrate their achievements.

The Awards will be launched at the Enterprising Women’s International Women’s Day Conference, sponsored by Mattioli Woods, which takes place on 7 March, at the Mattioli Woods Welford Road stadium, home of the Leicester Tigers.

‘We hope these webinars will put people’s minds at ease and encourage a lot of new applications’

Past Awards winners include Sue Tilley, who was head of business and innovation at the former Leicester and Leicestershire Enterprise Partnership, as well as Michelle Williams, co-founder and chief executive of Meesh Consulting, Asiya Parekh, from Leicester Hospitals Charity and Sally Faulkner, of Bond Street Distillery.

The venue for this year’s Awards will be revealed shortly, and the ceremony will be held on 26 September.

Applications are simple – and can be made through the Chamber website on a link that will go live on 7 March.

This year, to make the process even easier, the Chamber is hosting a number of live webinars which people can join to help walk them through the application process and answer any questions they have about the procedure.

The webinars take place from 121pm on 12 March and 4-5pm on 13

L-R: Sarah Higgins, Evony Higgins, Alice Houghton and host Emma Jesson at last year’s Awards

March. Details will be available on the Enterprising Women webpage –www.emc-dnl.co.uk/services/ enterprising-women – and subject to demand more webinars could follow.

Chamber commercial events officer Emily Perkins said: “We worry that people are sometimes put off by the application process –and we hope these webinars will put people’s minds at ease and encourage a lot of new applications.

“The process is not complicated and by putting their name forward there is nothing to lose. It’s free to enter and the webinars will be free to join too.”

This year there will be 10 categories including Business Woman of the Year, Apprentice of the Year and Small Business of the Year – while some of the other categories are being updated.

The applications deadline will be 11 April, with all the category finalists announced on 6 May, judging in June and the Awards ceremony in September.

The headline sponsors for the 2025 Awards are Michael Smith Switchgear.

Opportunities are available for media sponsors. To find out more email richard.blackmore@emcdnl.co.uk

Details of the Awards, which are open to members of East Midlands Chamber, will go live on 7 March at www.emc-dnl.co.uk/services/ enterprising-women

WHY IT’S SO IMPORTANT TO ACKNOWLEDGE OUR SUCCESS

Enterprising Women co-chair Eileen Perry MBE DL said: “Women play a critical role in driving the East Midlands economy, driving positive change in the culture of workplaces and driving more balanced critical thinking.

“Recognising the accomplishment and determination of our female leaders, entrepreneurs, creators, innovators and apprentices is vitally important as it shows the region, the business community and the whole country that we’ve got this in the East Midlands; we’re leading the way in getting more women into top jobs and influential roles.

“If you’re a woman at any level of business and there’s something you’ve achieved that you’re proud of, or a special quality you have in your approach to work, then you need to be putting yourself forward for an Enterprising Women Award.

“If you do one thing today, do that. You could be the boss, on one hand, but just as inspiring are stories of women starting out, learning the ropes and bringing something fresh to a business environment.

“It could be that you contributed to corporate and social responsibility or you shine in a small business – there may well be a category that screams ‘that’s me!’ so don’t hold back – get your entry in and let’s hear about it!”

Enterprising Women co-chair Jean Mountain said: “Celebrating the most influential businesswomen in the East Midlands is a key part of the Enterprising Women mission and the Awards are a tremendous opportunity to direct the spotlight on the achievements of women in business, on brilliant ideas and inventive thinking, on having standout leadership skill that brings on board the confidence of a workforce or having that sparkle that can happen at any stage of career.

“So many women don’t reflect on what they’ve achieved, and that’s such a shame. I say stop for a second. Think for a moment of something, one thing you’ve done that no one else has over the last year. It’s those wins that can be stellar and if there’s something like that you have in mind, you owe it to yourself to highlight it.

“The Enterprising Women Awards can give you that deserved recognition, while bringing you together with so many inspirational likeminded women at a superb ceremony, making it an empowering experience. You know what you’re good at, so enter an Award and our judges may well see it too.”

Some of the 2024 winners

Eileen Perry (left) and Jean Mountain

EAST MIDLANDS MANUFACTURING NETWORK

The Chamber launched the network in March 2022, with membership free and open to manufacturers of any size. As well as regular meetings, it entitles members to complimentary membership of Make UK.

The criteria for joining are:

• You are a senior manager or leader

• Your business is based in the Chamber area of Derbyshire, Leicestershire and Nottinghamshire

• Your business makes something.

A dedicated website allows members to better engage with the network as it expands and evolves. As well as being home for the latest manufacturing events, news and funding opportunities, it provides a members’ directory, allowing businesses to find out about and link with network members.

The network is aimed at business owners, directors and senior leaders who take a strategic overall responsibility for growing their business. The agenda at meetings is often set by the external factors that all businesses face.

The East Midlands Manufacturing Network supports manufacturers to help them overcome business challenges in a trusted environment. It is a long-term supportive network for manufacturing businesses of all sizes and offers fully funded membership to connect local manufacturing companies.

The network also provides guidance and support to help members make the best decisions for their businesses and it helps generate longterm, sustainable, mutually beneficial business opportunities.

For information email deborah.rogers@emcdnl.co.uk or visit: emmn.co.uk

Meeting puts focus on supply chain efficiency

Ajoint Leicester and Leicestershire East Midlands Manufacturing Network meeting was hosted by Loughborough University and was a strong example of manufacturers, leading academics and business support coming together to discuss manufacturing in the East Midlands.

It took place in National Productivity Week and having just returned from the World Economic Forum in Davos, Professor Jan Godsell, dean of the School of Business and Economics and professor of operations and supply chain strategy at Loughborough University, shared a presentation on supply chain productivity and effective supply chain models.

‘Her work focuses on the design of end-toend supply chains to enable responsibility, sustainability, resilience and productivity’

Her work at the university focuses on responsible consumption and production by aligning product, marketing and supply chain strategy with people’s needs.

In particular, her work focuses on the design of end-to-end supply chains to enable responsibility, sustainability, resilience and productivity.

As a chartered engineer, she has more than three decades of combined industry experience in product development, innovation, supply chain strategy, and process improvement working for industry

working with industry, with the ambition of becoming the central hub for supply chain innovation and talent development in the UK.

Manufacturing network members and representatives attended the launch of the centre – the only one in the UK – last October.

leaders including ICI, Astra Zeneca and Dyson.

She has advised Government and industry on supply chain strategy and its relationship to industrial and business strategy and is currently a member of the Department for Business Energy and Industrial Strategy (BEIS) supply chain resilience advisory group. She is also a member of the advisory group for the Made Smarter challenge.

During the network meeting Prof Godsell provided an update on the new UK Supply Chain and Logistics Excellence Centre at the university, a collaboration with the Massachusetts Institute of Technology. It has been set up to focus on research, education and

The January meeting was followed by a tour of the Loughborough Materials Characterisation Centre (LMCC), which can provide regional manufacturers with bespoke consultancy and testing of metals, plastics, polymers, composites and fibres.

The manufacturing network team will be back in Loughborough to support the East Midlands Manufacturing and Trade Conference on 13 March, 2025.

The Leicester and Leicestershire manufacturing networks form part of the umbrella East Midlands Manufacturing Network which is led by East Midlands Chamber. It unites local manufacturers, enabling members to harness the crossindustry, business, engineering and manufacturing knowledge necessary to evolve and expand.

Anyone from any business within the region that makes something can join one of the local networks.

UPCOMING EAST MIDLANDS MANUFACTURING NETWORK MEETINGS

n Derbyshire, 14 March – East Midlands Chamber offices, Chesterfield

n Nottinghamshire, 25 March – NTU Mansfield

n Leicestershire, 1 April – University of Leicester Business School

n Derby, 15 April – Enterprise Centre, Derby

n Nottingham, 30 April – University of Nottingham, Jubilee Campus

For details contact EMMN@emc-dnl.co.uk or visit: emmn.co.uk

Deborah Rogers

Professor Jan Godsell addresses the meeting

Network chair Mark Goldby at the January meeting

TRAINING & EVENTS

BOOST YOUR WORKFORCE AND DEVELOP YOUR BUSINESS

Insurance experts to be headline sponsor

Global insurance group and Chamber strategic sponsor Howden is headline sponsor of the 2025 East Midlands Manufacturing and Trade Conference.

Howden is a group of insurance experts with the experience to deliver for our clients and the motivation to help them thrive. Your success is our success. Whatever cover you’re looking for, we can help – offering flexible, market-leading insurance and reassuringly straightforward service.

No matter the challenge, we can get the right people in the right place to create the right solution for you. It’s more than just a job; we’re building a business to be proud of. Thanks to our unique employee-ownership model and the culture it creates, we’re attracting the best talent in the industry. Which means we can cater for the needs of your business, however complex or unique.

We do insurance differently – and we’re determined to do it better, too. We care about every client, large and small, and we know the market inside-out. So, we’re using that expertise to push the boundaries of what insurance can do for your business, helping to build your long-term resilience. From getting companies back on their feet after global interruptions like the pandemic to supporting our clients’ green initiatives for a cleaner world, we know insurance can be a powerful force for good. Our goal is to help you benefit.

MEET THE TEAM IN DERBY

From the heart of Derby, and with our office physically based within the Derbyshire County Cricket ground, Howden understands and addresses the specific needs of businesses across the East Midlands. That’s why we’re excited to collaborate with East Midlands Chamber for the Manufacturing and Trade conference.

We’re proud partners of the East Midlands Chamber and have been for more than 20 years, helping many of its members with their insurance and risk management needs.

• Paula Codur – account executive Paula has worked in the insurance industry for 25 years. She has navigated her way through diverse insurance sectors, with a primary focus on manufacturing. She has a keen attention to detail and places her client’s interests at the heart of all she does. Paula works with clients to truly understand their processes and challenges, which allows her to tailor an insurance programme with the right insurer.

• Chris Devitt Cert CII – account executive Chris is a qualified insurance professional with 22 years of experience in the industry. His extensive knowledge of the commercial insurance market means that he knows precisely how to present the risk to insurers, securing the best possible outcome for manufacturing businesses all over the East Midlands region.

www.howdeninsurance.co.uk

Conference looks at ways to go for growth

Final preparations are underway for the 2025 Chamber-run East Midlands Manufacturing and Trade Conference, which takes place at Loughborough University on the morning of 13 March.

This year’s event will focus on the current, increasingly complex economic and political environment, and consider the opportunities and challenges ahead for the sector and how we make the most of the regional assets that can positively impact regional, sustainable growth and prosperity.

‘It is essential we understand where we can enact change and look to shape policy’

As well as presentations there will be expert panel discussions and delegates will have a chance to meet with a range of exhibitors. There will also be invaluable networking opportunities.

This year’s event partners are Loughborough University, East Midlands Airport and East Midlands Freeport and the event sponsor is Chamber strategic partner Howden Insurance.

Presentations and panel topics confirmed so far include:

• Sector overview provided by Chris Corkan, regional director of Midlands & East of England, Make UK.

• What next for the Industrial Strategy? The new modern Industrial Strategy “Invest 2035” is the UK Government’s 10-year plan. The day will explore what this means for the East Midlands.

• Higher education’s response to the Government’s Industrial Strategy green paper, from Professor Graham Hitchen, director of the Loughborough University Policy Unit.

• Government update from Katrina Crookdake, area lead, Nottingham/Nottinghamshire, Department of Business and Trade.

• International Trade – the new Government’s approach and reassessing our relationship

with the EU, looking at the opportunities and challenges.

• The new Government’s strategy to exporting and opportunities for manufacturers – Ian Harrison, head of export development, Midlands, Exports Directorate, Department for Business and Trade.

• Update from East Midlands Airport on its 60th Anniversary, by Ioan Reed-Aspley, its head of corporate affairs.

• Details from the Chamber’s Quarterly Economic Survey, setting out the current economic climate for the sector, plus an overview of the Chamber’s response to the Government’s Industrial Strategy green paper by Richard Blackmore, director of policy and insight, East Midlands Chamber.

• Research, Development & Innovation: What’s new in the sector – Professor Anish Roy, associate dean of research and innovation at the Wolfson School of Mechanical, Electrical & Manufacturing Engineering, Loughborough University.

• Panel: Attraction and retention of talent and improving productivity through people –chaired by Mark Golby, chair of the East Midlands Manufacturing Network.

• Productivity Gains, Sustainability and Lean Manufacturing, by Emma Swann, managing director, BOAL Group.

Chamber policy and representation manager Ian Bates said: “In a year which has seen major economic and political change it is essential we understand where we can enact change and look to shape policy, ensuring we protect our industrial heritage, driving growth and competitiveness in the East Midlands in a sustainable way.”

The conference is open to Chamber members and non-members and takes place in the Loughborough University SportPark, from 9am1.30pm on 13 March. It is free to attend.

To register visit: is.gd/fAG8QX

Chris Corkan of Make UK addresses the 2024 Manufacturing and Trade Conference

More acts unveiled for 2025 East Midlands cultural celebration

More acts have been announced for the 2025 East Midlands Chamber Celebration of Culture and Communities, which takes place at the Athena in Leicester on 4 April.

Last year’s event was seen as a highlight on the region’s cultural calendar and it’s hoped this year’s will be an even bigger success.

Around 500 guests are expected at the evening which celebrates the rich diversity of life across the whole of the East Midlands.

The extravaganza shines a spotlight on the incredible cultures, individuals and organisations shaping the East Midlands, and as well as being a major celebration it is also a platform for connection, recognition and joy.

‘The extravaganza shines a spotlight on the incredible, cultures, individuals and organisations shaping the East Midlands’

Guests will enjoy a vibrant evening filled with engaging speakers who will bring unique insights and stories, as well as exceptional cuisine provided by the award-winning Sanjay Foods and first-rate entertainment.

The evening’s acts include Faryl Smith, a standout talent from ITV’s Britain’s Got Talent, with a repertoire spanning opera, classical and crossover. Faryl’s accolades include performing for Queen Elizabeth II and gracing venues including Wembley Stadium and Wimbledon.

Meanwhile, Sly & Estar are a dynamic duo known for their upbeat, braggadocios style of music, which draws influences from old-school hip-hop, trap and grime. They have been supported by Leicester arts and education organisation Pedestrian, which backs emerging local musicians through regular music sessions and programmes.

Another act is Jake Thompson, a singersongwriter from Leicestershire, whose journey

into music began at the tender age of nine when he picked up his first guitar, starting with lessons and experimenting with different cover styles. At 19, Jake released his debut single, a selfproduced track that quickly caught the attention of BBC Music Introducing East Midlands

Also on the bill is global Bollywood dancing sensation Karan Pangali, who rose to fame appearing in Bollywood movie star Hrithik Roshan’s Just Dance competition when 40,000 people auditioned across the UK, America and India.

Karan and the KSPARK Entertainments team have built up an impressive performance portfolio across theatre, film, corporate events, TV, awards ceremonies and high-profile weddings. It includes performances at the IFFA Awards at the former Hallam FM Arena, and at Michael Jackson’s 47th birthday event Unbreakable, as well as a Harrod’s dolls launch for Bollywood Idols with Hrithik Roshan and Kajol Devgan.

In 2003 Karan was selected by producers of the Andrew Lloyd Webber hit Bombay Dreams to perform in a UK tour of the musical. He has also graced the stage with Celebrity Big Brother winner and Bollywood film superstar Shilpa Shetty as well as Salman Khan and Amitabh Bachchan.

Karan has choreographed TV commercials for Walkers with Gary Lineker, Espaces Saada with Nora Fatehi and Moroccan pop rap group Fnaire, and Chak 89 with Hrithik Roshan.

Leicester charity Soft Touch Arts will also be supporting the evening. It works with 500 young people a year aged 11-25, including many from the city’s most deprived neighbourhoods.

Headline partners for this year’s Celebration of Culture and Communities are investment company RandalSun Capital, housing provider emh Group and De Montfort University.

The diversity partner is Nelsons Law, the music partner is Leicester-based licensing business PPL PRS, hospitality partner is Sanjay Foods and event partner is Sanjib 8.

For details visit: is.gd/fAG8QX

The event showcases a wide variety of the region’s cultural offerings including music, dance and entertainment and food

Left: Highlights of last year’s Celebration of Culture and Communities. Above: Britain’s Got Talent star Faryl Smith is one of the stars of this year’s event

Fair chance has benefits for all

The UK Fair Chance Business Alliance encourages businesses to open up recruitment and career progression to ex-offenders, providing employers with resources to safely and sustainably make the most of what they have to offer. With the support of East Midlands Chamber, it is hosting a webinar this month to show how ‘Fair Chance Employment’ can help SMEs thrive.

The East Midlands is facing a significant labour market challenge. With approximately 61,000 job vacancies – of which more than a third are deemed ‘hard-to-fill’ – the region is grappling with a widening skills gap that is putting immense pressure on SMEs.

Yet, the region does not have a labour shortage – there are currently more than 90,000 working-age individuals seeking employment –around 1.5 for every job vacancy. The challenge for SMEs is how to connect ready and willing workers with the jobs they need to fill.

Businesses across the UK are increasingly embracing the idea of Fair Chance hiring, and East Midlands companies such as Cosy Direct (see page 66 for an interview with their chief executive) are leading the way, with 7% of their workforce having a criminal record.

More SMEs are realising that by opening their doors to individuals with criminal records, they can tap into a skilled, loyal, and motivated workforce that is often overlooked.

One-in-four individuals of working age has a conviction – that’s around 800,000 people living in the East Midlands. While some businesses may assume that hiring someone with a criminal record is risky, the reality is quite different:

• 90% of people with a criminal record have never been to prison.

• 79% of sentences handed down are fines.

• 61% of criminal offences are motoring offences.

• One-third of women with a criminal record received it for non-payment of their TV licence.

‘By

opening their doors to individuals with criminal records, they can tap into a skilled, loyal, and motivated workforce’

By embracing Fair Chance hiring, SMEs can address skills shortages while also improving their bottom line. Here’s why more businesses are getting on board:

• Reduced recruitment costs – partnering with employment support organisations can streamline hiring, providing pre-screened candidates and reduce recruitment expenses.

• Improved staff retention – employees with criminal records often show higher loyalty and job satisfaction, leading to lower turnover and reduced training costs.

• Enhanced company reputation – inclusive hiring enhances brand perception and attracts customers and clients who value ethical business practices.

• Competitive advantage – the new Procurement Act places greater emphasis on social impact, meaning businesses engaged in Fair Chance hiring may benefit when bidding for public sector contracts.

Many SMEs want to be more inclusive but are unsure where to start. That’s where the Fair Chance Business Alliance comes in.

The alliance provides a clear roadmap through its charter, a three-tiered model that helps businesses implement Fair Chance hiring safely and sustainably. By joining, businesses gain access to best practice guidance, a supportive network, and expert connections to organisations that specialise in employing people with criminal records.

From 1-2pm on 26 March, East Midlands Chamber is co-hosting a webinar with the Fair Chance Business Alliance.

Join us to:

• Hear from businesses that have successfully integrated Fair Chance hiring.

• Learn how inclusive recruitment can help solve your workforce challenges.

• Understand the practical steps to getting started.

Chamber chief executive Scott Knowles said: “The Fair Chance Charter is essential to the Chamber as part of its suite of accreditations to strive to be an exemplar employer and a fully inclusive organisation.”

Register for the webinar and discover how Fair Chance hiring can work for your business at: is.gd/FNAdne

Sign up for forthcoming Chamber courses

LETTERS OF CREDIT

A one-day, online course providing detailed information on how to be pro-active in opening a letter of credit, how to work with the documents and present to the bank correctly. ONLINE. 9.30am-4.30pm, 11 March 2025. is.gd/5Ht3Gv

EXPORT DOCUMENTATION

A full-day, practical programme providing delegates with the necessary skills and knowledge to prepare and process documents

encountered when exporting goods overseas. ONLINE. 9am-4pm, 2 April 2025. is.gd/uXbtux

IP/OPR INWARD/OUTWARD PROCESSING RELIEF

Advice on how inward processing and outward processing relief can help your business avoid the cost of additional import duties by allowing you to process or repair your goods and suspend and get full relief from import duty. ONLINE.9-12.30pm, 9 April 2025. is.gd/am8p5T

SUSTAINABLE EAST MIDLANDS

www.emc-dnl.co.uk/sustainability

HELPING BUSINESSES TRANSITION TO A SUSTAINABLE AND LOW-CARBON ECONOMY

Green energy boost for Ideagen

Investment in renewable energy is helping software solutions provider Ideagen shrink its carbon footprint by 30 tonnes of CO2 every year – along with a potential five-figure saving on energy bills.

Last summer, Ideagen engaged Nottinghambased renewable energy experts Geo Green Power to install a 150kWp solar PV system at its head office in Ruddington. The 330 solar panel system has already generated 11.7MWh of green renewable energy for the business.

Chief strategy officer Emma Hayes said: “As part of our overarching ESG strategy for the business, Ideagen has committed to reducing our carbon footprint using science-based targets. Our investment in solar panels will significantly reduce the scope 2 emissions associated with purchasing electricity from the grid.”

She said the multi-national operation is keen to work with local partners to support regional growth and success – and Geo Green Power is located five minutes up the road.

She said: “We like to work with companies in our community and our experience with Geo Green Power was great from start to finish. Even before any panels went on the roof there was a lot of background work that the team handled brilliantly.”

Ideagen is one of thousands of businesses which have become more sustainable with Geo Green Power’s support. The renewable energy installer was established in 2010 and specialises in solar PV, battery storage and heat pump technology. Managing director James Cunningham said investing in solar panels remained an attractive option for companies in our region.

He said: “The solar installation business has

changed significantly over the last 15 years, and the energy crisis had a huge impact.

“At the start of 2022, a newly installed commercial solar PV system delivered a full payback period of around 5-6 years. When energy prices began to spike in the February and March that same system suddenly generated a payback of under five years; and almost overnight the market for solar PV more than trebled.”

Nottingham expands electric bus services

Nottingham City Transport is introducing electric buses on its Green Line routes 5, 7, 8 and 9 following the launch of its first electric buses last year.

The five-minute, Monday to Saturday daytime services between the city centre, Nottingham station, Trent Bridge and Central Avenue form the backbone of West Bridgford’s public transport.

They also form part of the City Loop which links passengers to locations across Nottingham city centre, including Broad Marsh, the railway station, and the new central library.

The new electric buses bring greener, quieter and cleaner journeys to customers and mark the first phase of the next batch of 24 electric singledeck buses, which will be introduced in the next few months. A further 14 are due towards the end of the year

These buses will join the 2024 fleet, already in service on Green 11, Pink 30, Blue 39, 40/X, 41, 42, and Red 50.

Ideagen engaged Nottingham-based renewable energy experts Geo Green Power to install a 150kWp solar PV system at its head office location in Ruddington

INTERNATIONAL TRADE

SUPPORT, STRATEGIES AND RESOURCES FOR EXPORTERS AND IMPORTERS

Chamber backs BCC’s proposals for trade strategy

East Midlands Chamber has backed ambitious recommendations submitted by the British Chambers of Commerce (BCC) to shape the Government’s trade strategy as new data reflects the struggles being experienced by many SME exporters.

Small and medium sized exporters face things such as red tape, increased global competition and inflationary pressures, with 56% expecting their prices to rise due to cost pressures, particularly from employment and taxes.

A national BCC Trade Strategy Manifesto has been drawn up setting out action the Government should take to boost exports and encourage inward investment in the rapidly changing geo-political landscape.

‘We are already the second largest exporter of services in the world, these cannot be hit by tariffs’

It identifies how the UK can protect and grow its trade profile in a world of increased tariffs and protectionism, where the US, China and EU all loom large.

William Bain, head of trade policy at the BCC, said: “If we get the trade strategy right then it could herald a new era of Government and business co-operation, leading to stronger exports and higher economic growth.

“The prize is huge, but the pitfalls are many and we will need smart and agile action by politicians, businesspeople and policymakers.

“That means focusing on the fundamentals. We are already the second largest exporter of services in the world, these cannot be hit by

AMONG THE MAIN RECOMMENDATIONS ARE:

1. Provide leadership on spreading digital trade across the world

2. Give SMEs better support to export and promote their products

3. Scale up green exports

4. Forge strategic relationships with global trading powers and institutions

5. Promote fast growing markets and sectors to secure long-term growth

tariffs, so we must lean into that natural advantage.

“We also need to leverage our skills in economic diplomacy; to build secure supply chains, expand digital trade, influence the debate on tariffs and form new partnerships to build consensus. Support for our SME exporters and encouragement to help them start selling overseas must also be put on rocket boosters.

“Over 40% of Chamber members export due to the framework of support we place around them. This level of advice, training and guidance needs to be replicated across the land.

“We also have an edge on many countries in a range of sectors which must be promoted. These include advanced manufacturing, life sciences, climate technologies, pharmaceuticals, energy and construction.

“The next few years will be pivotal for the UK’s export success for decades to come. It is crucial the Trade Strategy puts us in the best

possible place to deal with the challenges and take full advantage of the opportunities.”

Lucy Granger, head of international trade at East Midlands Chamber, said the UK remained one of the biggest exporters in the world.

With the changes and unrest caused by issues such as Brexit, the invasion of Ukraine, the growing global dominance of China and India and Donald Trump’s trade tariffs, the Government needed to ensure our position was protected.

She said despite the economic hit caused by Brexit, the Government now needed to take the reins and use its new-found independence to strike fresh, stronger deals with trading partners.

She also said it was possible Brexit would give Britain an advantage when discussing trade with the new US administration.

She said: “With all the changes that the world has seen over the last decade it is right that we need a comprehensive review of trade policy.

“The new British Government should ensure trade is at the top of its economic agenda, and that it negotiates the best deals for our manufacturers and service providers and shines a light on the quality and expertise that is at the heart of British business.

“International trade is far more complex than it needs to be which was why it was one of the key asks in East Midlands Chamber’s Manifesto for Growth, which we took to Westminster last spring.”

She said the Chamber’s international team was in a position to help the region’s exporters and importers overcome many of the hurdles that they face.

AI can help but human translators still needed

Nottingham-based PAB Languages Centre helps organisations across all industries connect and communicate with their audiences in more than 200 languages. Services range from translating advertising copy to creating videos in several languages and building websites in different languages. Its project management team includes expert copywriters, marketing linguists and certified translators. Chief executive Iwona Lebiedowicz (pictured) discusses the way new technology can help customers.

As automation races ahead, do we still value the subtle nuances only humans can catch?

While new technologies like AI-driven tools can handle large volumes of text swiftly, relying on these solutions alone can have serious consequences – especially when dealing with sensitive or high-risk content.

At PAB Languages Centre, human involvement remains an indispensable element in guaranteeing that all translations are both precise and culturally appropriate. Here are a few reasons why human touch is so vital, as well as the challenges and risks associated with solely depending on AI.

‘While AI excels at processing large volumes of text quickly, it struggles with context’

Protecting Data and Maintaining Compliance: Translating confidential documents – whether legal, medical, or corporate – requires a high degree of caution. Sensitive material must remain secure throughout the entire translation process, and each translation must adhere to relevant regulations. Even a small error in interpreting legal or regulatory texts can have far-reaching consequences, including legal penalties, business disruptions, and damage to reputation. Human linguists bring a level of responsibility and contextual understanding that helps maintain compliance and safeguards the integrity of the original message.

The Risk of Miscommunication: In industries such as healthcare, an inaccurate translation of patient instructions can compromise safety. In legal contexts, the wrong nuance can change the meaning of crucial clauses. When dealing with technical or industry-specific documents, machine-generated translations may miss subtle terms, jargon or cultural references that carry significant weight.

Regulatory Complexity: Each country has its own set of guidelines and legal requirements. Failing to accurately translate these details can result in non-compliance, leading to financial penalties or even the suspension of services.

Critical Decision-Making: Inaccurate translations in sectors such as healthcare, engineering or law can lead to flawed decisions. An incorrectly rendered medical guideline, for example, could jeopardise patient care.

Maintaining Brand Voice: Brands often have a unique tone or style. AI-generated translations might overlook nuances that convey a brand’s personality, leading to messaging that feels impersonal or off-brand.

Data Issues: AI systems rely on quality data. If the data is flawed, the translations will be too.

Liability Concerns: If an AI tool produces an error, it’s not always clear who bears responsibility –particularly for high-stakes content.

Confidentiality: Sensitive information requires secure handling at every step. Relying on external AI without sufficient oversight can risk exposing confidential data.

While AI excels at processing large volumes of text quickly, it struggles with context, cultural subtleties and linguistic nuances that experienced human translators can detect and address.

Striking the right balance by combining powerful tools with expert oversight, organisations can protect sensitive information, stay compliant with complex regulations, and communicate authentically across different cultures and languages.

UK firms concerned by impact of US tariffs

New research by the British Chambers of Commerce’s Insights Unit has uncovered the extent to which firms are worried about the impact of US tariffs on their operations.

The survey of more than 1,200 firms, of which more than 260 were manufacturing exporters, was carried out between 20 January and 7 February. During the period the US President, Donald Trump, imposed tariffs on Chinese trade and announced plans for tariffs on Canada and Mexico. But he had not imposed any fresh charges on UK imports.

Since then, he has announced plans to raise duty on steel and aluminium imports from 10% to 25%, and threatened to place 25% tariffs on Canada and Mexico.

Overall, 10% of businesses think the introduction of new tariffs on goods entering the USA would have a significant impact on them. 23% think it will have a slight impact, 56% no impact, and 10% don’t know.

However, for manufacturing exporters, those most exposed to disruption to trade in goods, 28% think there would be a significant impact. 34% think it will have a slight impact, 31% no impact, and 6% don’t know.

‘UK firms want certainty and their anxiety in the current environment is understandable’

Businesses said they were concerned the imposition of higher tariffs would make the business environment much less certain and could slow the global economy.

William Bain, head of trade policy at the British Chambers of Commerce, said: “We have entered a new global era when it comes to tariffs after a prolonged period where trade liberalisation has been the watchword.

“There is still a lot of uncertainty around what is going to happen especially as the US approach appears to have both trade and geopolitical aims. The announcement around steel tariffs shows how quickly the landscape can change.

“The UK should adopt a flexible and agile approach to these, while assessing the response of other major players… we would encourage Ministers to respond cautiously, and retaliatory actions should only be a measure of last resort.

“We are likely to be facing this kind of climate for the foreseeable future. UK firms want certainty and their anxiety in the current environment is understandable.”

UK businesses are worried about tariffs proposed by President Trump

AI is useful but humans are still needed to ensure the accuracy of translation

Councils plan for restructure

Some councils are still yet to agree on the way forward for the biggest local government restructuring in half a century.

Whitehall wants all areas with two tiers of council to move to a single, much bigger, controlling council – typically replacing the current model of separate county, district, borough and city councils.

The changes are being proposed to improve efficiency, reduce duplication and cut costs –with fewer councillors, council workers and senior officers and fewer costly headquarters.

Initial proposals need to be submitted by Friday 21 March, prior to final proposals going in by 28 November.

Councils covering Nottingham and Nottinghamshire are working together to explore “all options available”, which could lead to a single council.

Leicester City Council could remain unchanged – though possibly covering a slightly wider area.

‘One single county unitary serving 800,000 residents, one of the largest in the country, would be too remote, too cumbersome, too inaccessible’

Leicestershire County Council said it is drawing up “a common-sense plan” to create one council for Leicestershire (excluding Rutland and Leicester City).

However, in a joint statement, the leaders of Leicestershire’s seven lower-tier councils and Rutland said they were “extremely disappointed” that the county council was continuing with its proposal to create a single unitary council for the whole of Leicestershire with “no discussion or engagement” with other councils.

They said: “Our residents deserve better. We don’t believe the current system is broken, but if it is to change then we believe one single county unitary serving 800,000 residents, one of the largest in the country, would be too remote, too cumbersome, too inaccessible and ultimately inefficient and unsustainable.

“Our proposals, which we will submit before the deadline of 21 March 2025, will set out how many new councils would strike the right balance between size and maintaining a strong local connection to communities. We must, and we will keep the local in local government.”

Derbyshire County Council has also put forward different ideas to Derby City Council and the eight district and borough councils in its area.

Derbyshire County Council leader Cllr Barry Lewis said: “Derbyshire County Council’s position is clear: a One Derbyshire council would best

serve our residents and could save in the order of £126 million of taxpayers’ money over five years.

“Creating smaller unitary councils – such as dividing Derbyshire into two council areas as proposed by the district and borough councils and Derby City Council – simply wouldn’t achieve these savings.

“A single whole Derbyshire council would cut duplication – with fewer chief executives, fewer council buildings, and more efficient services –and a single tier across the whole county would make council services more streamlined and simpler for residents to understand.

“But equally importantly, Derbyshire has a strong identity and spirit that’s recognised nationally and internationally. Splitting Derbyshire into two councils breaks up our historic county and creates confusing new boundaries.”

In a joint statement, the city, districts and boroughs, said they liked the idea of two new councils, with the city council abolished.

They said: “We are of the view that Derbyshire County Council’s proposed ‘county unitary’ option would effectively ‘doughnut’ Derby City Council.

“This would create a large and remote council, with disparate communities, particularly across Southern Derbyshire, that would in turn lead to the inefficient delivery of services.

“It would also create a significant imbalance in the local taxbase; a county unitary with a taxbase of circa 810,000, and Derby City Council with a taxbase of only 270,000, with little space for growth.”

They said they were still open to meeting with the leader of Derbyshire County Council which would be “in the best interests of the residents that elect us and use our services, and the businesses that rely on us to support local employment and drive economic growth”.

The new East Midlands Combined County Authority would stay the same under the changes.

EMCCA’s spending plans make the most of funding

The East Midlands Combined County Authority (EMCCA) has approved a total spend of £385m over the next year.

Management at the administrative body –formed last year to cover Derby, Derbyshire, Nottingham and Nottinghamshire – said the funding includes £120m in extra money the region wouldn’t have received if it didn’t exist.

They said the 2024 establishment of EMCCA and its elected mayor meant the region was getting millions more to invest in improving the lives of people who live, work and visit the area.

The bulk of EMCCA’s spending will be on public transport and highways maintenance –

including £66m for major transport projects, £12.8m for smaller transport schemes and more than £40m to support and improve bus services.

A further £75m will go to local councils to fix their roads – which EMCCA said was £21.7m more than the region had before.

The authority is also putting money into employment and upskilling workers, including helping low earning adults to get the training they need to develop their careers. It is also supporting projects helping people with disabilities and health conditions get into work.

This year’s budget will also support economic activity and making the region

Nottingham’s Market Square

Leicester’s city body will remain says mayor

Council

leader Barry Lewis

The elected mayor of Leicester said he expects the city council to stay the same under the local government reorganisation plans – and could even end up covering a wider geographical area.

Sir Peter Soulsby said he felt the council would continue to supply frontline services just as it does today.

He told Business Network: “Nobody is suggesting the city and county councils become one. It is accepted by all that the city is a unitary authority and will remain a unitary authority.

“I think the county and the districts and the city all accept that change is going to happen and we need to try and shape that in a way that makes sense for everyone in Leicester and Leicestershire – and, indeed, Rutland.

“I think one of the big differences is in the perspective of the county who see the footprint as appropriate for a new unitary authority and the perspective of the districts who would prefer a north and south, or east and west divide.

“We are talking to both about what makes sense to them and what makes sense for us in the city.

“Particularly interesting from our perspective is the prospect of extended boundaries for us, because Leicester did not get boundary

greener, while boosting advanced manufacturing – through initiatives such as the East Midlands Investment Zone.

Money will also be used to support tourism.

Mayor of the East Midlands Claire Ward said: “We are committed to investing money into areas and projects that make a real difference and are important to local people.

“This year’s budget shows that devolution is working for the East Midlands as we are getting an extra £120m that we wouldn’t have received if EMCCA didn’t exist.

“I know that public transport and fixing the state of our roads is hugely important to people, which is why I have allocated over £75m to our county and city councils to get the potholes filled.

“We want to make it easier and cheaper for you to get around the region on public transport and we want to give adults and young people the skills they need to get jobs and progress in their careers.”

extensions in the 1970s. We have still got very, very tightly drawn boundaries from the 1920s –so our financial base is much narrower than other metropolitan cities and our ability to provide new housing is very dependent on other areas.”

Sir Peter also said there was an acceptance between the city, county and districts that a single, strategic authority – not unlike the East Midlands Combined County Authority covering Nottinghamshire and Derbyshire – could also be created. It could also potentially include Rutland and could oversee longer-term, strategic initiatives such as transport planning and employment strategy.

He said: “It’s totally acceptable that the districts and Rutland should have their own thoughts and it might be that we put in different cases for the route map. There are bound to be different views. I hope that we can get some degree of common ground but realistically we have to acknowledge that it may be the case there may be different perspectives at district or county level.”

Sir Peter said the changes would not lead to job cuts within the city council area – and could even see a bigger workforce. He said: “Frontline councils will maintain the full range of responsibilities that they have at the moment.”

Derbyshire sets net budget and tax rise

Derbyshire County Council has set its net budget for 2025-2026 at £769.8m and agreed a council tax rise of 4.99%.

The council said external factors beyond its control continued to put its finances under “huge pressure”, including pay and price inflation and a continuing increase in cost and demand for services – particularly children’s services and adult social care.

The council said its “financial position remains challenging, with difficult decisions needing to be made in the months ahead”.

It has set out a five-year financial plan which includes savings that will need to be achieved by 2029-2030.

Final decisions have yet to be made on all the budget savings proposals put forward in the report as some will need to be considered separately at future cabinet meetings and be subject to public consultation or engagement where appropriate – giving people the chance to have their say before final decisions are made.

The council said: “The budget savings outlined in the report go alongside a programme to change the way we work as a whole, ensuring we are operating as “One Council”, with some functions being brought together to reduce spending and avoid duplication.

“All expenditure is being challenged and strict measures to reduce spending across all areas of the authority remain in place, including vacancy management, reducing expenditure on procurement and reducing spend significantly around buildings which are no longer used.”

Council leader Councillor Barry Lewis said: “Strong and effective leadership and financial management has enabled us to set a balanced budget for the year ahead and while the situation remains extremely challenging, we have a robust plan in place for 2025-2026.

“We are doing what we can, including changing the way we work across the council and following strict measures to cut costs at every level. However, the challenges we continue to face are far greater than experienced before and are down to external factors simply outside our control.

“We fully acknowledge that the use of reserves is not sustainable, and we are pleased that the hard work we have done to manage our finances over the last few years means that we are able to set the 2025-2026 budget without needing to draw down further from our reserves.

“The demand pressures we are facing are forecast to continue, which is why on top of all that we are doing, and the difficult decisions we are having to make, we continue to lobby Government for extra funding, especially for social care and highways maintenance.”

East Midlands Mayor Claire Ward

Sir Peter Soulsby

FEATURES

TURNING THE SPOTLIGHT ON ISSUES AND SECTORS THAT MATTER TO BUSINESS

Freeport offers a strategic gateway for logistics growth

By Stacy Ford, communications and marketing manager, East Midlands Freeport

The UK’s logistics sector is undergoing significant transformation, driven by evolving trade patterns, supply chain pressures, and the increasing need for resilience and sustainability.

East Midlands Freeport has emerged as a key player in this landscape, offering businesses a unique inland logistics hub with significant tax incentives. But beyond these financial benefits, what makes East Midlands Freeport a strategic asset for the UK’s logistics and trade infrastructure?

A CRUCIAL HUB FOR UK TRADE AND SUPPLY CHAINS

The strength of East Midlands Freeport lies in its combination of world-class connectivity and a concentration of leading logistics providers. At the centre of this is the East Midlands Airport Gateway Industrial Cluster (EMAGIC), home to major industry players such as East Midlands Airport, Maersk, SEGRO, and Maritime Transport. This cluster is not just a collection of businesses but a key driver of the UK’s ability to manage and optimise trade, both domestically and internationally.

EAST MIDLANDS AIRPORT: A CORNERSTONE OF UK AIR FREIGHT

Handling over 400,000 tonnes of cargo annually, East Midlands Airport plays a pivotal role in the UK’s freight network. As the country’s largest dedicated air cargo operation, it serves as a critical hub for global logistics giants such as DHL, UPS, FedEx, and Royal Mail, ensuring that time-sensitive goods reach their destinations efficiently.

The airport’s central location provides unrivalled access to 90% of the UK population within four hours, making it indispensable for e-commerce, pharmaceuticals, and justin-time manufacturing supply chains. As air cargo operations become increasingly sophisticated, East Midlands Airport’s continued investment in automation and sustainability initiatives will be crucial in maintaining its position as a leading freight gateway.

SEGRO AND THE EVOLUTION OF LOGISTICS INFRASTRUCTURE

The demand for high-quality, strategically located logistics and advanced manufacturing space continues to rise, driven by the digital economy, urbanisation, supply chain optimisation and sustainability. SEGRO Logistics Park East Midlands Gateway continues to drive employment for over 7,000 people, contribute to the local economy and help meet the demands of modern businesses and online consumers. As businesses face mounting pressure to meet sustainability targets and improve operational efficiency, SEGRO’s investment in modern warehouse infrastructure ensures that the freeport remains at the forefront of logistics innovation. The availability of such facilities is critical for companies looking to expand and future-proof their supply chains.

MARITIME TRANSPORT: UNLOCKING THE POTENTIAL OF RAIL FREIGHT

Rail freight is increasingly being recognised as a costeffective and sustainable alternative to road transport, particularly as businesses look to reduce emissions and comply with tighter environmental regulations. Maritime Transport’s dedicated rail freight terminal at East Midlands Gateway plays a crucial role in enabling multimodal logistics solutions, connecting the freeport with all UK ports and the wider UK rail network, facilitating seamless movement between sea, air, rail, and road.

With the Government’s push to increase rail freight usage and reduce congestion on roads, investment in intermodal transport hubs like East Midlands Freeport is becoming increasingly vital. Companies that integrate rail into their supply chain strategies stand to gain from lower carbon emissions, improved reliability, and long-term cost savings.

THE FUTURE OF EAST MIDLANDS FREEPORT IN UK LOGISTICS

With the continued evolution of global supply chains, businesses that proactively leverage freeport advantages such as tax incentives, customs efficiencies, and world-class connectivity will be better positioned for long-term success. As the logistics sector faces increasing challenges, East Midlands Freeport provides a unique opportunity for companies to enhance resilience, sustainability, and operational agility.

For decision-makers looking at the next phase of their supply chain strategy, the question is no longer why consider East Midlands Freeport, but how best to integrate its advantages into a forward-thinking logistics approach.

‘East Midlands Freeport provides a unique opportunity for companies to enhance resilience, sustainability, and operational agility’

EMA’s Rail Freight Interchange

Is a freight forwarder

the right direction for you?

International importing and exporting could be the next step for expanding your business, but it can also be a daunting or a confusing process. However, a freight forwarder can take a lot of stress out of the process by dealing with everything, from customs clearances to the delivery of goods, on your behalf. But is a freight forwarder the right choice for you?

WHAT DOES A FREIGHT FORWARDER DO?

A freight forwarder is a company that arranges for goods to be transported from one country to another. As simple as this sounds, there is a great deal of work that goes on in the background to ensure seamless and safe delivery and a freight forwarder will handle every aspects of the logistics while acting as the shipping agent.

The exact process will vary depending on the cargo and the type and length of the journey, but in most cases a freight forwarder will:

• Arrange for transport of goods from the point of origin (such as your factory or warehouse) and delivery to your agreed location

• Prepare documents, licences and any other relevant paperwork needed for export and ensure compliance with international custom laws

• Organise passage for land, sea or air freight as needed and oversee the loading and unloading of cargo at every stage

• Track the delivery from pick up to drop off.

Freight forwarders do not move freight themselves, instead they will subcontract each stage of the journey to local suppliers and act as an intermediary between the shipper and the various transportation services and storage facilities used. They will utilise established relationships with trusted contacts in the carrier industry to expedite each part of the journey.

A freight forwarder is not necessarily required for a firm to ship internationally. However, because the process requires a great deal of in-depth knowledge – particularly on regulations, which vary from country to country – in addition to a lot of documentation, a lot of importers choose to leave it in the hands of an expert.

THE ADVANTAGES

There are a number of benefits to using the services of a freight forwarder, especially if you are new to exporting.

Expertise – a freight forwarder is an expert in all things import/export. They will be familiar with the custom laws of various countries and will know which documentation is needed for every stage. They will also utilise their contacts to work out the best route in terms of cost, speed and reliability

Personal touch – you will only need to liaise with one company or individual to arrange your shipment, rather than many different haulage/freight companies

Peace of mind – if something goes wrong, your freight forwarder will be on hand to deal with the issue. If you need to make a complaint or submit an insurance claim, they can offer their guidance.

THE DISADVANTAGES

Although there are many advantages, there are also some drawbacks to using a freight forwarder, and it will not be the right choice for every business.

Costs – using a freight forwarder can increase the overall cost of your shipment, and you may be able to get a better deal if you negotiate shipments and haulage yourself

Lack of control – Using a forwarder means relinquishing a lot of control and leaving your shipment in the hands of your freight forwarder entirely

Priority – larger and well-established forwarding companies might not prioritise small shipments from small businesses

THE COST

In most cases, a freight forwarder will offer a quote for the entire process as determined by your needs, so you won’t have to worry about any hidden or extra costs down the road.

However, it’s also important to get an itemised quote so you can see exactly what is – and what isn’t – covered. An itemised quote might highlight some costs that you hadn’t previously considered, such as fluctuations in the price of fuel or currency exchange rates, any product-specific costs such as refrigerated transport for perishable items, packaging for fragile items or cranes for loading heavy items, and storage.

You should also do your due diligence to make sure all quotes come from reputable forwarders that you can trust to get the job done, as it may end up costing your business time and reputation, as well as money, if you don’t work with a reliable company.

‘A freight forwarder will handle every aspects of the logistics while acting as the shipping agent’

FOCUS

TO COINCIDE WITH THE CHAMBER-RUN EAST MIDLANDS MANUFACTURING CONFERENCE TAKING PLACE AT LOUGHBOROUGH UNIVERSITY ON 13 MARCH, THIS MONTH’S BUSINESS NETWORK FOCUS PAGES TAKE A LOOK AT SOME OF THE LATEST DEVELOPMENTS ON THE REGIONAL MANUFACTURING SCENE.

TRADE WAR BRINGS OPPORTUNITY

The head of a Derbyshire firm that designs and sells indoor and outdoor play and nursery equipment is confident of filling gaps in the market caused by the trade war between the US and Canada, writes Tom Pegden.

Cosy Direct sells hundreds of thousands of pounds worth of products to both countries –with shipments to the US going through Canada.

Chief executive Pete Ellse said that a 25% tariff threatened by Donald Trump on goods coming into the States from Canada has made Canadians keen to look elsewhere for quality imports.

Meanwhile, the possibility that the US could hold back on tariffs with the UK means America also remains a strong market for British firms.

Pete said: “It looks certain that the Canadians are facing reactionary tariffs from the US, so the sentiment there right now is anti-US import because of what happened – a wedge has been driven between best friends, which is crazy, but it does mean they’re looking for alternative sources.

“That’s where we come in and say “we can do this” because we’re well placed to replace many of the Americans’ products they import.”

Cosy Direct, based in Tutbury, between Burtonupon-Trent and Uttoxeter, was launched 15 years ago by Pete and managing director David Hook. It has a growing team of 105 people, with the equivalent of 10 new full-time jobs added last year.

‘We can match Chinese prices thanks to very close relationships with suppliers in the UK and Europe’

Turnover is around £18m on the back of 20% growth each year for the past six years.

Pete said there has been a huge amount of investment in recent years – in a combination of new technology and “brilliant young brains”.

That includes a dedicated team of a dozen people working as data analysts, social commerce experts, 3D and graphic designers, business process reengineers, automation, AI translation and ecommerce.

Partnerships with some of the best universities in the region – in Staffordshire, Nottingham, Leicester and Derby – means they are considering relocating some or all of those teams to a university to take advantage of the more dynamic “campus feel”.

BOTTOM LEFT: A happy user gets to grips with some of Cosy Direct’s educational equipment

BOTTOM RIGHT: Pete Ellse at the Ed Spaces Texas US trade show

The business sells around 30,000 ethically sourced educational products to primary schools and nurseries in more than 50 countries, ranging from outdoor play kitchens to dens and playhouses, kid’s furniture, obstacle courses, storage sheds and arts and crafts supplies.

Pete said: “We are designers and developers of products for children, nurseries and kindergartens. That includes outdoor equipment, a lot of nature equipment, a lot of furniture.

“We started exporting about five years ago and that’s doubled every year since and we're now in 52 countries. Export is about 20% of the business – or around £3m.

“As part of that export strategy we've got a joint venture with a Canadian business helping us supply North America. We’ve done recent shows

in California and the other week we were in Georgia and met up with 50 different companies that turn over about half a billion between them all in our sector.

“The opportunities in the States are twofold for us – the exchange rate makes it quite cheap to buy UK products, and our products are wellproven the tested.

“Our products are made half in the UK and half in Europe, so they don’t have the same taxes as Chinese products, which is also good for the Americans. We can match Chinese prices thanks to very close relationships with suppliers in the in the UK and Europe.

“So, we’re expanding in the USA but now, our Canadian partner wants to buy more UK stuff to replace the USA – there's opportunity both ways.”

TOP LEFT: Pete Ellse and marketing director Chris Ratcliffe trying out self-driving cars in Los Angeles

TOP RIGHT: Pete Ellse (right) with Jarrett Klein, commercial director of US school supplier Lakeshore

GOING GREEN HAS ECONOMIC BENEFITS TOO

Going green in manufacturing can cut costs and boost competitiveness, while saving the planet, according to an expert.

Jose Arturo Garza-Reyes, head of the centre for supply chain improvement at the University of Derby, said that the East Midlands was leading the way in using green manufacturing practices.

He said: “Manufacturing companies across the East Midlands have, in general, shown a willingness to implement green manufacturing practices in their day-to-day running.

“The adoption of green practices by manufacturing companies can lead them to the optimisation of the use of raw materials, water and energy, resulting not only in a reduction of the environmental impact of their manufacturing processes but also in the reduction of their costs.

‘Continuous support from local authorities and industrial bodies is of paramount importance to improve the adoption of green practices across the region’

“Similarly, the adoption of green practices can enhance their brand reputation, meet the demand of their customers for sustainable products as well as comply with environmental regulations. All this will improve manufacturers’ competitiveness. The success in the implementation of green manufacturing practices varies among companies.

“Some lead in innovation while others have faced challenges owing to resource constraints. Thus, continuous support from local authorities and industrial bodies is of paramount importance to improve the adoption of green practices across the region.

“One such challenge when adopting green technologies is high initial investment. For instance, transitioning to environmentallyfriendly technologies very often requires substantial investment in new equipment,

SPACE PARK CAN HELP GET FIRMS INTO ORBIT

Manufacturers pushing the boundaries of space exploration are being given unprecedented access to Space Park Leicester’s world class facilities.

The University of Leicester’s £100m science and innovation park has launched a “services” offering to give more organisations the chance to benefit from its resources and connect with engineers and academics.

The move will support industry leaders, researchers, manufacturers, engineers and designers in fields such as aerospace, automotive and high-tech manufacturing.

infrastructure upgrades and renewable sources of energy.

“In most cases, these are prohibitive for SMEs. Additionally, in most cases, integrating green technology can be complex as it may require specialised knowledge. Also, existing processes may be disrupted during the transition period.”

Manufacturing is an evolving industry and with rapidly advancing technologies, such as artificial intelligence, 2025 is set to see more changes and challenges.

Professor Garza-Reyes said: “To support the UK’s manufacturing sector, the Government can provide incentives and funding to foster research and innovation in manufacturing technologies and processes.

“The Government can also contribute to providing training programmes to the workforce to equip them with skills in sustainable practices and advanced manufacturing. It would also be important for the Government to develop and maintain infrastructure that supports manufacturing activities, for example, digital connectivity, transportation and energy supply.

“Negotiating trade agreements to ensure that UK manufacturers have reduced barriers to accessing international markets is another way in which the UK Government can support manufacturers. Finally, the Government can also offer grants and tax breaks to those manufacturers that adopt green technologies and sustainable practices. This will encourage environmental responsibility within the sector.”

Community groups and schools will have the chance to use its venue for free or at reduced rates for activities such as educational workshops, science fairs, community meetings or cultural events.

Vinay Patel, head of commercial and innovation at Space Park Leicester, said: “Whether organisations are developing satellite technologies or exploring new frontiers in space exploration, our state-ofthe-art facilities and expert services are designed to support their mission every step of the way.

“We’re already home to a dynamic group of space-related businesses and by launching our new services offering we’re giving even more organisations the opportunity to benefit from our incredible facilities, hardware and software.”

The services offering gives organisations the opportunity to hire conference rooms, meeting rooms and Space Park Leicester’s clean room, which is used for advanced engineering and space research.

There are also opportunities to use its design facility and design and proof-ofconcept workshops and environmental testing services which simulate the extreme environments of space.

The site also has mass spectrometry services delivering high-resolution, precise molecular analysis for commercial applications while its precision manufacturing facility can be used for commercial, research, and industry projects. It also has consultancy and advisory services.

Jose Arturo Garza-Reyes, professor of operations management and head of the centre for supply chain improvement at the University of Derby

REBELS ARE TAKING THE MARKET BY STORM

Battling the big brands this Easter: Treat Kitchen’s strength is flexibility, a family approach and a Stormtrooper. Tim Smith speaks to directors Martin and Jess Barnett (pictured) to uncover the secret ingredients that rocketed the business from a single Nottingham store to trading worldwide.

Treat Kitchen’s products are stocked by Tesco, Spar, Sainsbury’s, Moonpig, Funky Pigeon, Scribbler and are also shipped overseas. In 2024 the company launched in the US at 900 locations in 50 states, while Christmas saw the UK side of the business trade from 5,000 locations and export to 21 countries.

The business prides itself on creating imaginative products and for this Easter looked at galaxies far, far away for inspiration.

“Our Stormtrooper helmet is a must this year – already a best-seller,” says Martin Barnett. “It’s a fantastic alternative Easter egg – beautifully accurate, even down to not being symmetrical, just like in the movie.”

With January bringing a huge deal to fill shelves at more than 400 Tesco branches across the country, 2025 has already been a whirlwind, as Jess Barnett explains: “We’re delighted. For a business our size Tesco was a big order. Being in major FMCG retailers shows we’re stepping up from SME level to a higher level, in terms of service level expectation.”

Keeping longstanding customers at heart while growing is a core ingredient in Treat Kitchen’s approach to service.

“We make sure to give the same service level to our existing customer base while we pivot and learn a new way of doing business with the bigger FMCGs [fast-moving consumer goods companies], which have different IT systems we’ve needed to adapt to,” says Martin.

Transition from a single store in Nottingham

city centre has been rapid. “I’d been a confectionery buyer before that for a supermarket chain in Australia,” Martin says. “When we returned to the UK, we traded with that one Nottingham shop for three or four years. We’d got a decent brand and we'd carried out extensive competitor analysis.

“We knew we could compete by offering something different and more modern in sweets and chocolate.

“We started wholesaling and our first big break was getting into Harrods. The reputational power was fantastic and it wasn’t long before we were in Debenhams, in about 120 of their stores.

‘We’re on the shelf right next to Cadbury, Mars, Ferrero and Lindor’

“There were ups and downs, like Debenhams going, then Covid to contend with, but launching in Sainsbury’s was a big boost. We’ve been fortunate to land key accounts at key times, which helped us grow.”

Treat Kitchen wasn’t afraid of the crowded confectionery market they were joining, already well served by household names and the team has shown resilience to unexpected world events.

“We’ve proved ourselves,” Martin says. “We’re on the shelf right next to Cadbury, Mars, Ferrero and Lindor. Spot the imposter! That’s humbling –we share the room with firmly established names.

“Competition can be scary, but a few years ago we only had one shop in Nottingham and now we’re up against Cadbury and Mars. We built the business from 2019, navigating through the most difficult trading conditions in modern history: Brexit, Covid and inflation. The war in Ukraine directly affected us because gingerbread is made in Kiev.”

Taking on big brands was about giving products ‘personality’ and being aligned with trends, Martin says. “The vision when we created the business was that our products should spread joy, be eye-catching, colourful and sit alongside the big brands – but with their own personality.

“We conduct our design and development in a way that makes us stand out from bigger

businesses who can't react to trends as quickly as we can.

“We have an in-house designer with their finger on the pulse. Average product development time in large businesses tends to be around 18 months to two years, sometimes just for a packaging change. Our customers like the fact we pivot quickly to suggestion.”

Outsourcing of manufacturing has enabled fast response to popular interests.

“All our raw materials are outsourced,” Jess says. “That allows us to pivot quickly to whatever flavour, texture, shape or product type is trending. We can pivot to veganism, getting gluten-free certified production, or when gin was hugely popular, we had a flavour ready. Being able to do that opens doors to a wider market.

“We can apply the Treat Kitchen brand to almost all foodstuffs – whatever is trending. Working with adaptive suppliers helps us stand out from the crowd. We can say “we want that gummy, but we want it vegan or halal”.”

Sustainability has also been important in shaping product design and development.

Jess Barnett explains: “We worked with the University of Nottingham to look at the carbon footprint of products so we could make tweaks that would have a big environmental impact.

“We make continuous improvements to packaging to make it more sustainable. We bought a machine that shreds cardboard packaging and turns it into new packaging and filler. By putting our products in glass, we’re encouraging our customers to reuse. We have less than 1% packaging waste, other than the recyclable label.”

STRONGER THAN STEEL

West Special Fasteners hold together the world’s deepest diving submarine and are critical in oil and gas. Tim Smith caught up with managing director Sonja Skelton (pictured).

Q. Wherever anyone goes in the world, they can’t be too far from a West Special Fasteners product – is that true?

A. Absolutely. We've got fasteners all over the world, ranging from the Spinnaker Tower in Portsmouth to the Helix Bridge in Singapore.

Q. And all produced in Dronfield.

A. It's mainly because we're next to Sheffieldthe birthplace of stainless steel, famous for its abundance of resources. We need stainless steel stockholders, heat treatment suppliers, testing facilities - it's all on our doorstep.

Q. People might think of nuts and bolts as unexciting but they’re some of the most important components, having to be strong, durable and reliable. Is it your approach to quality that makes you stand out?

A. Yes - we specialise in hot forging. That gives a cost saving to the customer. If someone wants high strength components that are forged, we’re one of few in the world that can offer that. It's not just quality, it's the service. We have a 95% hit rate for on-time deliveries. Our staff have knowledge and that’s important to customers. Put it together and you get excellent service.

Q. Tell me about your products and buyers

A. We generally pitch ourselves as non-standard fasteners, with materials from stainless steel and above, like nickel alloys. We manufacture a number of fasteners. They can go in various sectors, such as defence, construction, renewable energy and oil and gas.

Q. Some of your products are in surprising places. Where are the some of the more unusual?

A. HMS Victory in Portsmouth - the oldest warship in the world - has stainless steel fasteners from us for its restoration. When they get to a certain part of the ship, they might not know what type or size fastener they need until physically dismantling something, but we have the staff to provide the service. We supplied fasteners for the Triton submarine, which can reach the deepest parts of the ocean, for its expedition to the Mariana Trench.

Q. We don't know whether the US will impose tariffs on the UK for steel and aluminium. Is that something that you've had to prepare for?

A. Yes, although we don't know how and if it'll impact us. We generally deal in stainless steel or higher. To my knowledge, the US are still heavily reliant on the UK in supply of certain materials. I'd like to think common sense will prevail and they protect that.

Q. As managing director, you stand out as a leading woman in business and in the manufacturing sector. Would you say we’re on more of an even keel with women in leading roles or is there some way to go?

A. There's a long way to go. I really feel there's an expectation in schools that females might be pushed in one direction and males another.

We have an initiative in place from this month, getting involved in careers events at local schools. We’ll attend a secondary school and

relay the point that women should get interested in manufacturing.

When I was at school, I had a real love for chemistry but didn't really know where I was going with it. I didn't have any clear goal of any industry I wanted to work in. I didn't go to university, I left school and started work straight away, falling into manufacturing by accident! I fell in love with it because I love chemistry. That helped me get into materials, knowing the importance of the elements. I started at the bottom and just worked hard.

I bought this business with three others and I'm now managing director. I have to pinch myself as I've not really got used to that title.

Being a woman doesn’t hold me back in any way. If anything, it's more progressive. I educate people on how to treat each other fairly. It's been proven that if you have a diverse culture in a business - whether sex or ethnic minority - it brings more to the table and you'll have a more successful business.

Q. What would you say to women considering joining the manufacturing sector?

A. Have an open mind don't be pushed in any direction, especially if you have a love of engineering or science. There could be a wonderful opportunity in engineering or manufacturing. It's just a matter of getting that into schools. There are a lot of apprenticeship providers engaging with schools and I’m sure there’ll be more women in the manufacturing and engineering sector in the future. It’s about changing people's perception. I think we'll get there.

BREWING EXPERTS TOAST UNIVERSITY PARTNERSHIP

An award-winning business that provides consultancy services to companies in the brewing and drinks sector is strengthening its links with the University of Nottingham’s International Centre for Brewing Science.

Murphy and Son has already spent years working with the university, supporting graduates through apprenticeships and fellowships, working on knowledge transfer partnerships and helping with post-graduate placements – even seeing its own lab and technical teams take on University of Nottingham alumni.

Now, its laboratory and R&D team is relocating to the brewing science centre, giving them access to its excellent facilities, which will allow it to provide more comprehensive product testing services for customers and expand its lab testing offerings to include a wider range of analysis for wine, cider, spirits as well as brewing.

Murphy and Son has more than 135 years of

brewing know-how and last year cut the ribbon on a new 50,000 sq ft warehouse in Chilwell.

Last autumn it won both the Small Business and overall Business of the Year Awards at the Chamber’s Nottinghamshire Business Awards.

‘This partnership not only enhances our research and development capabilities but also strengthens our commitment to supporting the next generation of beverage producers’

The Centre for Brewing Science is home to one of the country’s most advanced pilot brewing systems. Working together they hope to find innovative ways to increase efficiency and

sustainability for customers and address modern drinks production challenges.

Murphy and Son managing director Charles Nicholds said the business was delighted to be building on its years of collaboration with the university.

He said: “This partnership not only enhances our research and development capabilities but also strengthens our commitment to supporting the next generation of beverage producers.

“By relocating our lab and R&D team to the Centre for Brewing Science, we can leverage advanced facilities to better serve our customers and expand our testing services.

“Additionally, this collaboration will help us continue to push the boundaries of our R&D, finding innovative solutions to deliver on our goal of being the number one technical resource for drinks producers.”

Professor Sam Kingman, interim provost and deputy vice chancellor at the university, said he was also thrilled to see the relationship deepen.

ALSTOM SIGNS DEAL TO GET TRAIN FLEET BACK ON TRACK

Train builder Alstom has signed a £24.5m contract with Govia Thameslink Railway (GTR) to help bring a fleet of Derby-built 30 Class 379 trains back into service.

The Electrostar trains will be used by the UK’s biggest railway franchise on its Great Northern network, connecting King’s Cross with Cambridge, Peterborough and King’s Lynn.

The fleet was acquired by Porterbrook –which owns almost a third of the national passenger rail fleet – from Akiem in March 2024.

Alstom is providing both engineering and on-train technical support to ensure the first units enter service as soon as possible.

‘When we acquired the fleet from Akiem last year, we were confident that they would be perfectly suited to GTR’s requirements’

The trains will be the first GTR fleet to use Alstom’s HealthHub platform which analyses and displays data captured by the train –everything from its speed to the temperature inside the carriages and the GPS coordinates that give its location.

The first trains re-entered service on 10 February. Several new roles are being supported by the contract, with work being carried out at existing Alstom sites.

He said: “We are a centre of excellence for brewing education and research and through this partnership our shared expertise will be translated into world-leading innovation, helping to define the future of the sector.”

Jo Simpson, chief commercial officer at the university, said: “Our partnerships are built on innovation and impact and our relationship with Murphy and Son exemplifies this.

“Combining our world-leading facilities, research expertise and new pathways for our students and graduates to thrive has created a partnership that will have an impact globally.

“I am very much looking forward to seeing the continued success and growth of Murphy and Son alongside the university.”

Murphys is built on research in liquor treatments and supplying the ingredients, refinements, cleaning materials and manual handling equipment required by drinks producers.

Alstom’s Litchurch Lane site in Derby, is the only UK site where trains are designed, developed, built and tested and has a history going back 185 years.

Last summer the business welcomed news of a £370m order that secured the

site’s future. Around 1,300 jobs had been threatened following a drop in orders at the country’s biggest train factory and Alstom’s biggest globally. That deal is seeing it build 10 new Aventra trains for Transport for London’s Elizabeth Line.

Its historic Crewe Works, meanwhile, is home to Alstom’s UK Centre of Excellence for Bogie and Traction Motor Overhaul. It has overhauled more than 20,000 bogies –which house the train’s wheelsets – over the past decade.

An original technical support and spares supply agreement was signed between Alstom and Govia Thameslink Railway in October 2022 for around £256m, covering the length of the operator’s National Rail contract.

That has seen Alstom support the Derbybuilt Class 377 and Class 387 Electrostar fleets in operation on Southern, Gatwick Express and Great Northern services into London’s Victoria and King’s Cross stations.

Stefan Rose, chief investment officer at Porterbrook, said: “I’m delighted that more of our Electrostars are entering service with GTR.

“When we acquired the fleet from Akiem last year, we were confident that they would be perfectly suited to GTR’s requirements, and it’s excellent to see them back out on the network to serve passengers for many more years to come.”

Alstom has serviced GTR fleets for more than 20 years with a 35-strong project team.

The 30, four-car Class 379 electric multiple units (EMUs) – known as Electrostars – were built by Alstom at the Litchurch Lane factory between 2010 and 2011, and originally served passengers between London Liverpool Street and Kings Lynn via Stansted Airport and Cambridge until 2022. Under GTR, the trains will operate out of the Hornsey depot.

An Electrostar train waits at Platform 4 at King’s Cross before making the inaugural journey carrying Great Northern passengers to Letchworth Garden City (Credit – Govia Thameslink Railway)

Charles Nicholds of Murphy and Son (second from left) with, from left: Jo Simpson, Professor Sam Kingman and Professor David Cook of the University of Nottingham

Culture eats strategy for breakfast - or does it?

By Richard Williams (pictured), founder and lead consultant at

Connect with Impact

II had a conversation recently with a fellow consultant in which we discussed that well-known business maxim “culture eats strategy for breakfast”. The rationale behind this phrase seems to be that if you have an outstanding company culture, you don’t need to have a strategy. Or conversely, you can have the best strategy in the world, but a competitor armed only with a better culture will be more successful than you.

So which side is right? Is culture really more important than strategy for a business?

As with so many things, I think that this expression suffers from encouraging polarised thinking – that either one thing or the other is the best.

However, my experience with dozens of companies through a long career has shown me that both have their place.

As always, neither is best and for success we need to build a combination of both.

STRATEGY WITHOUT CULTURE

Most business schools or courses will teach you that companies need a strategy. They may even teach you how to write a fairly decent one. What do we mean by a strategy though?

In simple terms, we are talking about a plan for the business. An understanding of the services it provides, the clients it wants to serve, the people it’ll need and actions to find them both. This might also be coupled with some sort of long-term vision – a destination which the company hopes to reach in the future.

None of this is wrong or harmful to a business. However, in the absence of a great culture, leaders will be trying to deliver this strategy with a team around them who are passively (or even actively) disengaged. It’ll be seen as “their” or “management’s” idea and one that no one else has any investment in.

This would be a sad state of affairs were it not the actual case in so many established businesses! Plans and strategies galore, but a team who would rather be anywhere else.

CULTURE WITHOUT STRATEGY

OK let’s look at the opposite state. A company that has built and protected an outstanding culture, but lacks any kind of strategy. Sure, you’ll have engaged and empowered staff who are capable of applying their talents to any number of things. But without the focus of a strategy, their efforts could be scattered and directionless. A culturally poorer company with greater focus will have more success in their chosen sector, precisely because they’ve chosen a sector

Can you really put a group of talented and empowered people in a room and expect something amazing to emerge? Maybe, but I’ll be willing to bet that one of their first conversations will be about what they’re going to do and for whom. Essentially right from the off, they’ll start building a strategy!

‘Businesses need both a great culture and a solid strategy. Without one or the other, something fundamental is lacking’

I’ve found this to be the case in a number of organisations who prioritise culture. They are outstanding places to work and their teams would not want to be anywhere else. However, whether documented or not, they always DO have a strategy of some sort.

So, I don’t agree with that tired old maxim in its purest sense. Businesses need both a great culture and a solid strategy. Without one or the other, something fundamental is lacking which will negatively impact that organisation's ability to succeed.

Don’t get me wrong, I much prefer working in and with companies whose culture is outstanding. I’ve been lucky enough to do so many times in my career. Having also worked at the opposite end of the spectrum, I know that these types of companies have advantages that more traditional ones do not.

BUT, if they haven’t already, I would always encourage them to define the basic elements of their strategy. This focuses their unique culture and talents in a way that makes an almost unstoppable combination.

Culture and strategy: Two sides of the same coin, neither of which has anything to do with breakfast.

But as the old song says (for a truly effective business) “You can’t have one without the other.”

DIGITAL EVOLUTION: NAVIGATING THE SHIFT FROM PERSONAL CONNECTION TO EMPIRE BUILDING

In today’s digital landscape, the internet is indispensable for fostering connections, unleashing creativity, and conducting commerce. It’s transforming the way we communicate and establish businesses.

My journey started in 2011 as a teenager using social media to express myself and combat feelings of isolation. This led to a shift from personal connections to finding a professional calling. By 2016, a dedicated approach to my YouTube channel resulted in gaining 30,000 subscribers in just four months, prompting me to reevaluate what truly brings fulfillment.

After some reflection, I’m relaunching my projects, now equipped with valuable insights from my experiences. Understanding the psychology behind digital engagement is essential for transitioning from content creation to strategic entrepreneurship. Genuine, relatable content resonates with audiences, and mastering the algorithms of platforms can significantly boost your online visibility.

Achieving digital success involves blending technical skills with a broader purpose.

The concept of ikigai, a Japanese philosophy of finding one's purpose, has profoundly influenced my approach, helping me integrate my passions for family, fitness, and creativity with my professional ambitions.

As the digital environment evolves, the core importance of human connection remains unchanged. By employing authentic storytelling and strategic thinking, we aim to create not just content, but lasting digital legacies that make a real impact.

Develop your digital identity by leveraging your unique experiences andgenuine voice. The platforms may change, but the power of true connection endures.

T: 07897 678374 E: maelmedulan97@gmail.com. Search: @abirosae on Social Media

Practical workspaces can boost productivity

By Jonathan Smalley, director at Company Image Commercial Interiors Limited

As employers welcome back their returning employees to the office, it is not only essential, but also fundamental that the environment is fit for purpose.

A well-designed workspace that ensures that employees feel comfortable can bolster output, giving them a sense of pride not only in their work but also in themselves, this then can filter throughout the business.

It has been proven in recent studies that pride and image were identified as key components of a fantastic workplace experience. It may come to a surprise that only 51% of employees feel proud enough to bring visitors to their office.

HOW DO ENVIRONMENTAL FACTORS EFFECT EMPLOYEE’S WELFARE?

A well-designed workspace allows employees to feel acknowledged, their needs are being catered for and that their wellbeing is recognised and accounted for.

Discouraged employees feel a lack of pride resulting in negative feelings which again can filter throughout the business in a negative manner. Studies also revealed that only 65% of employees feel productive in their work environment.

Environmental factors in the workplace, such as air quality, lighting, noise levels, temperature, and space design, can significantly impact employee welfare by affecting their physical and mental health, productivity, and overall job satisfaction.

Having the correct lighting and environmental climate are core to ensuring that employees are comfortable, and productivity is high, with poor environmental conditions often leading to discomfort, fatigue, stress, and reduced performance.

GETTING THESE FUNDAMENTALS RIGHT – IT’S NOT A ONE-SIZE-FITS-ALL SOLUTION

Over the last 15 years I have taken time to listen to my clients needs and wants. Of course, each business is different and it’s important to know exactly what matters to them. The ideal workspace will vary not only from company to company but even from team to team. Ensuring best working conditions is crucial – no matter the size, right decisions can make all the difference in performance.

CREATING DESTINATION WORKPLACES

Keeping employees engaged is essential, ensuring workplaces are a destination that they want to work from, not somewhere that they must be. This can be achieved by providing facilities that support both their personal and professional lives. Wellbeing areas and breakout spaces allow individuals to escape and reflect, giving opportunities to have their own space and gather their thoughts. Considering individual differences and characteristics is key; simply integrating slight changes can be as effective as larger overhauls and complete refits.

Creating spaces where people want to be and environments where individuals can thrive will help to attract and retain the very best talent.

YOUR WORKSPACE IS YOUR FIRST AND LASTING IMPRESSION – SO MAKE IT A GOOD ONE

By creating environments where individuals can thrive, workspaces will leave one of the strongest first impressions and lasting! You’ll want this to be somewhere that they can see themselves enjoying for eight to ten hours a day, five days a week, aiding in retaining individuals and give a lasting impression to your existing and potential clients. Experience is key, as is being at the forefront for trends –as is listening.

‘The ideal workspace will vary not only from company to company but even from team to team’

DIGITAL & TECHNOLOGY

THE CUTTING-EDGE SECTOR THAT IMPACTS THE FUTURE OF BUSINESS

IN BRIEF

PROJECT WILL USE AI TO BOOST RAILWAYS

A three-year project aimed at revolutionising the railway industry using AI has been launched by the University of Derby and Sperry Rail.

Funded by Innovate UK, the partnership will look at using AI to detect cracks in railway tracks while also integrating new AIbased practices.

Dr Alaa AlZoubi, senior lecturer in computer science at the university, who is leading the project, said AI could be used to cut false detections, minimise service disruptions and extend the lifespan of railway assets.

The project follows a successful initiative between the university and Derby-based Bloc Digital to revolutionise road and rail inspections using real-time data from mobile phone pictures.

COOL WEBSITES FOR REFRIGERATION FIRM

A US refrigeration giant has turned to a Derbyshire digital agency to help it build its European market through two new foreign language websites.

True Refrigeration, which supplies commercial refrigeration and counters to hotels, restaurants and shops around the world, asked Purpose Media to create Spanish and Italian versions of its company website.

It took the number of websites Purpose has created and manages on behalf of the US firm to seven under a brand marketing partnership that is now in its seventh year.

It is also helping True Refrigeration to strengthen its foothold in Europe, from its regional HQ in Switzerland.

COMPANY PROFILE: TECINTERACTIVE LTD

Tell us what your company does and a brief overview of its history?

Established in 2005, TecInteractive is one of the UK’s premier providers of audio-visual workplace technology solutions.

Our services include the specification and fit-out of audio visual and conferencing technology solutions including interactive displays, video conferencing, digital signage, meeting room technology, video walls, meeting room booking systems, digital flipcharts and consultation services.

Our vision is to help people work more collaboratively using smart and simple workplace technology, so we create tailored workspaces that enhance productivity and communication.

We are known for our outstanding customer service and ongoing support, as well as our expert knowledge and reliable technology solutions. We were recognised as a finalist in the prestigious national AV Awards in 2023 for an office transformation project at the Worldline UK&I headquarters in Beeston.

We were also honoured to supply and install interactive technology for the organising

committee of the London Olympic Games in 2012 and are delighted to have been shortlisted as a finalist in the Excellence in Collaboration category at last year’s East Midlands Chamber Derbyshire Business Awards.

The rapid surge in video conferencing during the Covid-19 pandemic culminated in the growth, and subsequent relocation of our business to a new headquarters in Ashbourne in 2023.

Can you give us an idea of recent growth?

Our turnover increased by 67% between 2021 and 2023 with profit increasing by 15% over the same period. This growth came on the back of an increased demand for video conferencing technology during the pandemic and the subsequent move towards hybrid working.

We are now seeing a more connected world where businesses are looking to create an ’in-person’ feel for their remote workers wherever they are in the world.

Who are your main customers?

We work with businesses of all sizes across multiple sectors, including food, pharmaceuticals, healthcare, manufacturing, engineering, construction and the public sector.

We know how important good communication is and how technology, people and the environment can work together to create enhanced workspaces.

What recent challenges have you faced?

The pandemic presented a huge leap forward for our customers in terms of their use of video as Zoom and then later MS Teams became

Location: Albany Court, Blenheim Road, Ashbourne, Derbyshire

Number of employees: 14

Interviewee: Tom Bamford, Commercial Director

the dominant force in the world of video conferencing. The rapid move towards remote working meant that we had to scale-up quickly.

Increased demand and the global microchip crisis meant that IT/AV equipment stock availability became very limited, which ran into 2022 and meant we had to carefully manage project delivery dates. We had to start importing certain equipment such as immersive room technology, servers, IT equipment and sensors from the Netherlands in a newly post-Brexit era – which we hadn’t done before. In 2023 we doubled our workforce and moved to a new office.

What are the company’s plans for the future?

We are always looking to differentiate ourselves and offer something in the tech space that no-one else is doing.

We are ambitious and will continue to grow by strengthening partnerships and gaining new customers across the UK. The technology world is fast paced and always evolving, so we have to evolve with it. The biggest opportunity over the coming years surely has to be AI.

How has East Midlands Chamber helped you?

We have been a Chamber member for four years and enjoy engaging with the membership benefits available – particularly the networking events, annual dinner and the Derbyshire Business Awards.

Purpose Media account director Matt Bonser

Tom Bamford

BUSINESS SUPPORT

THE LATEST NEWS AND UPDATES FROM OUR KEY INDUSTRY SECTORS

IN BRIEF

RECORD YEAR FOR BANKING TEAMS

Shakespeare Martineau’s corporate and banking teams supported a record-breaking £6.6bn-worth of deals in 2024, with an average deal value of £18m.

Growing work in mergers and acquisitions, fast-growth businesses, investment funds and finance has seen the corporate team expand in recent months plus the appointment of a six-strong healthcare specialist team.

Highlights include tech and healthcare work, as well as around £1bn-worth of deals in the energy sector.

Notable transactions included an exclusive structured trading agreement between Utilita and EDF for the provision of wholesale market services; the strategic disposal of April Six for AIM-listed client The Mission Group to US firm Marketbridge; a management buyout for Wade Building Services; and the integration of Bromsgrove-based Trebor Developments into Texas company Hillwood Investment Properties.

The firm’s single largest deal came in at £2.9bn for an undisclosed fund manager.

FREETHS TEAM DRIVES FILLING STATION DEAL

Freeths has advised Zuber Issa, the chief executive of forecourt operator EG On The Move, on the acquisition of Applegreen’s 98 UK petrol filling stations.

All 1,142 Applegreen UK jobs will be retained, bringing the number of people working for EG On The Move to 4,500. It takes the number of sites to almost 150.

The transaction was led by Freeths’ real estate partner Atiyya Khaliq supported by colleagues including managing associates Michaela Mason and Zac Clayton, and associate Sam De La Bertauche.

Atiyya Khaliq said: “As a longstanding client, it’s always a pleasure to support the team with its ongoing strategic growth. This deal secures a wider presence across the South of England, cementing its position as leader within the market.”

Niche commercial law firm CMP Legal advised on 24 corporate transactions last year with a combined deal value of more than £140m.

Since launching in 2021, the Chesterfield-based firm has established itself as “approachable, but commercially focused”, specialising in corporate, commercial, dispute resolution and employment law.

Last year it acted across a variety of sectors, significantly in the dental and pharmacy sectors. It also helped establish some large employee ownership trusts and has served as an advisor in the professional services and private equity sectors.

Executive director Anna Cattee said: “We are immensely proud to announce that our department has achieved completion on transactions with deal values of over £140m for the calendar year 2024.”

Experts join legal panel at Serco

Nottingham-based Browne Jacobson has struck a deal to provide Serco’s UK and European operations with legal services after being appointed to its legal panel.

The panel covers legal services including corporate work, data protection, litigation, property, procurement, employment and HR, contract management, health and safety regulation and tax.

Serco provides government services in areas such as justice, immigration, defence, space and healthcare in the UK and Europe, and also operates in Asia Pacific,

North America and the Middle East.

Craig Elder, the partner leading the Serco relationship, said: “This is a highly significant contract award for Browne Jacobson and testament to our firm’s ability to support industry-leading clients across the public and private sectors.”

The legal panel, which runs for an initial three years, also includes CMS, DWF and Radiant Law.

Meanwhile, Laura Hughes, Browne Jacobson’s head of public law has made it into The Lawyer Hot 100 list.

L-R: Craig Elder, Gavin Cumming and Anja Beriro, all from Browne Jacobson

Anna Cattee, executive director at CMP Legal, Chesterfield

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Skills business secures major start-up funding

Askills development company has secured £15,000 funding from First Enterprise under the British Business Bank’s Start Up Loans programme to develop its brand and website, and invest in marketing.

The Gleevolution Factory provides practical and fun training sessions from its Leicestershire base, focused on leadership, customer service and sales training.

Founder Joe Whibley, who currently runs all sessions himself in a one-to-one or group setting, has more than 25 years of team leader experience worldwide within retail, sales and training – and a strong belief that fun and work can go well together.

‘As a startup founder, my main challenge was spinning all the plates’

The funding from First Enterprise and Start Up Loans has mainly been used to develop branding and to set up its website, as well as purchasing sales-based software. It has also been used to get a sign for Joe’s micro camper van, which serves as his mobile office space.

First Enterprise – Enterprise Loans provides business loans ranging from £500-£150,000, which are funded through several regional funds, for start-ups and SMEs that are unable to borrow from traditional high-street lenders. The not-for-profit organisation reinvests any surplus into loan funds to further support economic growth and job creation.

Joe said: “As a startup founder, my main challenge was spinning all the plates, I live in a world that has a repetitive cycle. It was tough at times to focus on business growth and strategy.

“However, the loan has helped me to use a specialist for my branding and social media work which frees up some time. I would also like to add that whilst the loan has made a huge difference, my business advisor was brilliant throughout the whole process.”

Inderpal Singh, business advisor at First Enterprise, said: “This business really has a unique approach to training staff, Joe’s ideas of combining fun and work made working with him feel refreshing and exciting. I wish him the best of luck on his endeavours with Gleevolution.”

Santander helpsaviation firm land finance

Santander has agreed a multimillion funding package for an East Midlands company that uses its own fleet of aircraft to provide aerial intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance work.

The funding, backed by UK export credit agency UK Export Finance (UKEF), will be used to support export growth at DEA Aviation, which is based at Retford Gamston Airport, in north Nottinghamshire.

DEA uses sophisticated surveillance technology to gather high quality data for issues such as land border and maritime patrols, security and law enforcement.

Around 80% of its work is overseas, flying reconnaissance and search and rescue missions for European customers 24 hours a

day, 365 days of the year –providing real-time intelligence which supports thousands of operations.

Since securing an initial £16.5m

of funding from Santander last year the business has grown by 10% to more than 220 staff, including skilled engineers, pilots, sensor operators, systems architects and

software developers operating from Nottinghamshire.

Liz Pickering, relationship director, Santander Corporate and Commercial, said: “We are pleased to have provided DEA Group with an additional lending package to support the group’s expansion.

“The funding will help the business establish itself further as a major exporter of tech-led aerial data services. We look forward to continuing working with the DEA team and UKEF.”

Joanna Allen, chief financial officer of the DEA Group, said: “The funding recognises that DEA is a substantial exporter and will enable the company to continue to build upon the momentum that we have generated over the course of the past year.”

L-R: DEA CFO Joanna Allen, UKEF CEO Tim Reid, UKEF export finance manager Paul Tandy and DEA head of engineering commercial Mark Bowley

The Gleevolution Factory founder Joe Whibley

The Mining Remediation Authority has teamed up with West Nottinghamshire College students to conduct critical incident training.

Students from the Mansfield college played members of the public during a mock emergency scenario, creating a realistic environment for the authority’s teams to practice incident contact centre response procedures.

Students took on roles ranging from members of the public to politicians, challenging the call centre staff to think on their feet during a simulated mine water flooding incident.

As an organisation with emergency responder status, the authority must be ready to react to issues around the clock, including critical public safety and environmental incidents.

The hands-on collaboration not only helped its teams prepare for real-life emergencies but also

gave students the chance to complete vital roleplay hours required to graduate – bolstering their confidence in the performing arts and increasing their professional readiness.

The authority is a public body created to protect the communities and environment in mining areas.

Hannah Thomas, its resilience manager, said: “This collaboration is a perfect example of how we can work together with local institutions to achieve shared goals.

“It was a great day – not only did we enhance our ability to respond effectively to critical incidents, but we also contributed to the development of talented local students.

“It’s the second time the authority, which has its headquarters in Mansfield, has run this type of training session after reaching out to the college to host a similar exercise in July 2024.

“The initiative underscores our dedication to

New degree will look at global use of AI Mining teams train for critical incidents

A new ‘first of its kind’ two-year degree equipping students with the skills needed for a career in international business and AI has been developed by the University of Derby and Rolls-Royce.

Starting in September, it is hoped the accelerated BSc (Hons) International Business and AI programme will meet demand from industry by focusing on the realworld application of AI.

As part of the new degree, students will have the opportunity

community engagement and educational support, while enhancing our own preparedness to protect public safety.”

Bethany Marshall, work placement officer for the college, said: “This exercise gave our students a rare opportunity to apply their skills in a professional setting while contributing to public safety.”

to develop technical skills with an emphasis on intellectual growth and, by integrating AI with international business, develop skills needed to thrive in global markets where traditional practices are no longer sufficient.

Dr Mustabsar Awais (pictured), course leader and senior lecturer in financial economics at the university, said: “As artificial intelligence reshapes industries and disrupts traditional business models, there is a need for graduates with the skills and ambition to design the world of the future.

“This exciting, accelerated learning degree will equip students with the skills to apply advanced technological solutions to today’s business problems, drive forward innovation and gain valuable experience for their CVs.

“We are delighted to be working with world-leading brand RollsRoyce to power the next generation and future workforce.”

Throughout the two-year course, students will cover topics such as

managing big data, the global economy and the fundamentals of business analytics and AI, giving them an applied, real-world learning experience. They will also have the chance to take part in immersive activities and live briefs with Rolls-Royce to gain valuable insight into the world of business.

The university and Rolls-Royce already work together on several

world-class projects including the Nuclear Skills Academy in Derby. Stuart Evans, people director –future of work, capability & learning at Rolls-Royce, said: “I am excited that we’ve been able to extend our partnership with the University of Derby.”

To find out more visit: is.gd/czxPRx

The University of Derby

Hannah Thomas, resilience manager at the Mining Remediation Authority delivers a briefing to West Nottinghamshire College students

West Nottinghamshire College students deliver critical incident training with the Mining Remediation Authority

Mansfield with St Mary’s and St John Church, and Pleasley Pit in the distance

NEW TENANT FOR POPULAR DERBY SITE

Salloway Property Consultants have let a well-known office premises on one of Derby’s key connecting routes.

The detached 10,400 sq ft office building in Sir Frank Whittle Road/Stores Road, was originally leased by Barclays Bank but was more recently used as a DWP jobcentre.

The new tenant is MWH Treatment, part of the RSK Group, which provides water, wastewater and environmental services across the UK.

The business has taken a lease of the property as part of a strategic relocation to a new regional headquarters.

MWH Treatment project manager Valery Shchukin said: “We are thrilled to announce our move to this exceptional new facility and extend our heartfelt thanks to Salloway Property Consultants and the landlord for their unwavering support throughout the process.

“The seamless transition has allowed us to remain focused on what matters most – our team’s future. With its strategic location, modern design, and spacious layout, this new regional headquarters is perfectly tailored to support our growing team. Designed to foster collaboration and innovation, the space, enhanced by minor refurbishment and IT upgrades, provides the ideal environment for our expanding team and long-term vision.”

MEDICAL FIRM RENTS PRIME OFFICE SPACE

FHP Property Consultants has let more than 40,000 sq ft of prime space just off Junction 28 of the M1.

Acting on behalf of Legal & General, it has let the site to Medequip, a medical company which provides community equipment services to local authorities and the NHS throughout the UK.

FHP director Tim Gilbertson, who concluded the deal on behalf of the landlord, said: “A long-term lease has been secured on the building which created good interest after extensive marketing with its recent net zero carbon refurbishment adding attraction to the occupier eventually secured.

“This again shows a lack of similar available stock now in the marketplace but hopefully as the year progresses there will be more opportunities of similar calibre available in the market.”

Airport wants industrial park plan off the ground

East Midlands Airport has submitted planning permission and picked a development partner for an industrial park on fields to the south of the airport.

Airport owner MAG (Manchester Airports Group) wants to develop a logistics and advanced manufacturing site on land on the other side of the A453.

North West Leicestershire District Council will have to consider the plans which, airport management said, could bring up to 2,000 new jobs to the area and add £132m of economic growth per year to the East Midlands. They said it would also contribute £9m of additional business rates.

‘This investment in East Midlands Freeport is a clear demonstration of the UK’s strength as a hub for innovation’

Logistics property owner, developer and investor Prologis has been chosen as the partner to take forward the development.

The partnership announcement formed part of Chancellor Rachel Reeves’ recent speech on driving UK economic growth and supporting business investment.

The park would sit within the East Midlands Freeport tax site which, itself, could unlock an estimated £1bn of investment in and around the airport and contribute to growth in sectors including life sciences and advanced manufacturing.

The development site would offer operators various tax and customs relief and simplified import/export procedures. It would also benefit from the airport’s central location, excellent motorway connectivity and

proximity to the UK’s biggest airport for express freight.

Prologis – which would build a centre for logistics job training and education on the site – has developed logistic parks at some of the world’s biggest international airports in cities such as London, Amsterdam and New York. The plans coincide with the airport's proposals to grow cargo operations to meet rising demand.

Rachel Reeves said: “Economic growth is the number mission of our Plan for Change to raise living standards in every part of the country. This investment in East Midlands Freeport is a clear

demonstration of the UK's strength as a hub for innovation, will create thousands of new jobs driving growth in the region and strengthen the UK’s position as a leader in advanced manufacturing and logistics. Together we are kickstarting our economy, driving growth and getting more money in people's pockets.”

Airport managing director Steve Griffiths said: “This is an exciting step forward for growth in and around the airport, as our unrivalled cargo operation continues to act as a catalyst for investment in our region and we look at ways to build on its success.”

Chancellor Rachel Reeves at her speech on growth with UK head of sustainable investment and partnerships for Prologis Jason Longhurst (left) and East Midlands Airport managing director Steve Griffiths

Graphic of the East Midlands Freeport

NEC event introduces us to some wheelie great bikes

East Midlands Chamber sent motoring journalist Nick Jones along with photographer Steve Hopkins to the NEC in Birmingham for Motorcycle Show Live 2025, the UK’s biggest bike event. All pictures by Steve Hopkins Photography

The pair have been attending the show for years but still marvel at how many new innovations and design changes they see, not to mention the riders and celebrities strolling around. From electric test tracks, adventure trials, festival trails and new models for the season, the annual event never fails to add excitement for all things two wheels. Here are their highlights…

BMW

Quite a few new models to arrive this year, an R 1300 GS Adventure, and a plethora of sports bikes including the S 1000 R, an S 1000 RR and an M 1000 R boasting over 210 horsepower.

DUCATI

The Italian bike builder continues its rise with a new scrambler, a Multistrada Pikes Peak and the sensational looking, all-new Panigale V4, which sees a road-bike match up with a Moto GP bike.

HONDA

They introduce a 750cc scooter called the Forza, an adventure bike called the XL Translip, a new NT1100 cruiser and part-adventure bike, part scooter called the X-ADV.

KAWASAKI

Just the two models forthcoming, a Z900/SE with a new chassis and engine, and the new Ninja 1100 SX/SE which offers more capacity than ever before and more power, setting a new standard in performance.

KTM

They have a great looking 990 Duke R which is bolder and more aggressive than before with performance upgrades, and a new 1390 Super Adventure S Evo which, twinned with the 1390 Super Duke GT, both take a huge leap forward in performance and technology.

MV

Three here, a Dragster, a smart-looking Superveloce 1000 Serie ORO and a new F3 Competizione.

SUZUKI

They have just the two models this year, a DR-Z4S for fun with off-roading capabilities, and a new DR-Z4SM with a new engine that's also lots of fun.

TRIUMPH

The Hinckley manufacturer offers three new models –firstly, a Speed Twin 1200, which offers sports performance with agile, dynamic handling. Next up is a Speed Twin 900 that can be used for weekend getaways and a daily commute. And there is also a new Trident 660 that makes every ride seriously fun.

YAMAHA

No less than 11 new models on show, starting with a new R1 GYTR featuring Moto GP-style wings and Brembo calipers, as well as R3 and R9 versions which are more of a Supersport bike and can be track-ready. There are two Tracer tourer bikes, an MT-07 and MT-09 Y-AMT featuring fully-automatic gear changing, two new scramblers and two scooters.

THE LAST WORD

Chamber president Dawn Whitemore suggests that providing support to the UK’s manufacturing businesses makes good economic, as well as common, sense.

It is increasingly frustrating when you struggle to find goods to purchase that are manufactured within Britain. It is even more frustrating when you think you have purchased goods that are clearly designed in Britain and sold as such, to then, in small print, find that they were manufactured outside of our country.

We have to ask ourselves what are the barriers to supporting and encouraging manufacturing to be undertaken in Britain, what needs to change to support manufacturing business to see Britain as the place to start or to move to?

How do we encourage and retain start-up manufacturing here in the UK?

Surely it makes good economic sense to support manufacturing businesses that are already here to grow and thrive along with supporting innovation and start-up manufacturing to get off to a flying start.

Quite simply more manufacturing will provide good jobs, it will ensure products are produced to the highest standard whilst the welfare of the workers is known to be good.

These goods then get distributed in the UK first, so reducing our carbon footprint.

I appreciate that we then would need to export and I am fully conversant with the notion that manufacturing where the consumer markets are does make sense but that should not all be at the expense of manufacturing activity not happening in the UK.

With the onset of new international tariffs (tax) this is set to become even more complicated with many manufacturers that we are lucky to have in Britain being forced to assess how they will navigate the ever-increasing complexity.

Will they need to consider moving activity off-shore in order to retain any level of profitability or do we act now to ensure this does not need to happen?

The postponement of the long-awaited Industrial Strategy is disappointing but it is expected that manufacturing will be a key strand within it once published.

There has certainly been plenty of discussion

Rolls-Royce is one of the region’s top manufacturers

‘What are the barriers to supporting and encouraging manufacturing to be undertaken in Britain?’

and lobbying around advanced manufacturing and the need for there to be more long-term planning in place and for policy changes to be made to support the market environment to be more growth-enabling.

This should include as a minimum reform of the energy market and more investment into the funding for apprenticeships.

We in the East Midlands have some of the most amazing and successful manufacturers in the world, from Rolls Royce to JCB, Toyota, Samworth Brothers and Games Workshop to name but a few.

The East Midlands Chamber membership is made up of around 20% of businesses that are in manufacturing such as Aga Range Masters, Castle Rock Brewery and many more.

My ask is for each and every one of you to support our amazing British Manufacturing by buying local first.

Plus, for our Government to apply common sense and ensure there are policy changes and real long-term investment strategies within the Industrial Strategy that will be sustainable and support the manufacturing sector to grow and thrive.